Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Maison Blanche and more!

As we approach the grand opening weekend (an official Grand Opening on Memorial Day) of Darling, I want to thank everyone for all of the blood, sweat, and tears to make this happen. It has been fabulous to have had such talented people pull together and support Darling. We love our cozy little spot on Lyme Street and are even looking closely at a larger space to accommodate the collection of home and gift items…more to come!




Annie Omar, the founder of Maison Blanche paint, is certainly one of the people involved in making Darling's dreams come true. Her deeply talented artistic  roots, product knowledge, color choices, and strong philosophy is what makes her company very special.



"I'm very proud of my Southern Louisiana roots and come from a long lineage of strong and independent women. The paint colors you'll find have been inspired by my South Louisiana, Cajun & French Creole heritage. A southern belle at heart, I operate from a place of abundance. It's my ultimate dream to be able to help other women begin their own journey towards financial and creative freedom. The business model of La Craie paint is designed to do just that." ~Annie

Her ideas are in alignment with what drives me....I love what I do and want to share my knowledge, that there is enough room for everyone, and to inspire and help others love where they are! 

Color Debutante from Fox Hollow Cottage

What is so special about this paint line?

Our exclusive Furniture Paint formula is unlike any you've seen before. It was designed with you, the creative and conscious consumer, in mind.

We wanted to make it both excellent quality and affordable. Maison Blanche Furniture Paint dries to a soft, velvety finish and is extremely low in organic volatile compounds, making it a green and eco-friendly alternative to traditional oil-based paints so often used on furniture. With little to no odor, we can create your masterpiece just about anywhere without fear of reprisal from your delicate senses.

Our Furniture Paint has been carefully refined and perfect to the last drop. Silky and smooth, the paint can be applied using a variety of techniques in addition to 'straight from the can'. It's been specially formulated for painting furniture, cabinetry, and trim. It can also be used to top off any existing furniture finish, without the need for stripping, sanding, or priming. What could be simpler?

For a more distressed look, apply waxes to create that classic, old world patina. Add a bit of water and try it as a color wash. If you prefer your paint a bit thicker, simply leave the lid off for awhile. The paint will thicken without forming a skin on top. 

This calcium carbonate based formula is available in 32 delicious colors. You're sure to find the perfect shade for your project. Use one color or layer several. The sky's the limit.

Let me tempt you with more… the line is unique in that is has 4 Antique Waxes, used to create lustrous finishes, providing an additional vehicle for embellishment. The waxes are the best that I have used, and never give an appearance of a piece looking "dirty". 

Not only is the color palate outstanding but usage of Organza provides an metallic elegance that is unparalleled.  Oh…and let's not forget Glacage, a thick texturing cream that mimics the look and feel of intricately carved wood to create french appliques that are just exquisite. 
Darling is stocked with paint and cannot wait to share our knowledge!  




Monday, May 6, 2013

Elegance for Girls: Your Dance Identifies who you are

Antoinette Armoire 

What's more feminine than an Antoinette style ballerina inspired armoire for a little girl? My mother found this "pretty" for me and it is just a perfect adorning station for "C". I just love the vintage knobs and added some gold gilding to the edges brushed with French Linen.

 

This piece is a keeper and my little darling is just so excited that I made a piece custom for her! 


“Your dance identifies who you are.” 

Author Unknown

I have to give credit to Rachel Ashwell for inspiring me to lust worn ballet shoes. In the down stairs of her new Soho store, I immediately spotted a random basket of worn ballet shoes worn by her daughters...they were beautiful... distressed delicate pink and ivory satin, tangled wrinkly silk ties, and worn during hours of discipline. This is an ironic display of the delicate art of ballet and hours of physical dedication. It's a combination of imperfection and perfection, so close to her deep rooted style.
Perfectly White
Soho


During an adventure, I stumbled upon two pairs of fabulously worn shoes. Right away I knew they belonged in my daughter's room hanging from this armoire. Like my daughter, an "outside of the box" kind of gal, these shoes have a lot of "soul".