refreshing blackberry sage coolers

Blackberries are by far my favorite fruit, so before they go out of season, I just had to pass along this delicious recipe I came across from Scaling Back blog for refreshing Blackberry Sage Coolers.  Aside from the gorgeous color, this purple concoction is the perfect drink for late summer entertaining.  As with all produce, its best to use ingredients that are in season, so be sure to try it out before the season's end (or freeze them to enjoy later on through the fall)!  California blackberries are available from May to October, while Northwest blackberries tend to last from late July to late August.  The unique flavor combination of fruit and herb, paired with the effervescence of a splash of club soda is simply divine!  For a great signature cocktail, add a little vodka and enjoy!

via Scaling Back blog

INGREDIENTS:

15 medium sage leaves

4 tablespoons sugar

1 cup water

8 ounces blackberries

Bring water and sugar to a boil over high heat until sugar is dissolved. Using the back of a spoon, crush sage leaves and add syrup mixture. Set aside and let sage infuse for 15 minutes, then remove herbs. Puree blackberries in a blender and strain the mixture through a fine strainer. To prepare, place a tablespoon of blackberry puree in the bottom of a glass and add a tablespoon of the sage syrup. Top off with 8 ounces of club soda and enjoy!

a touch of turquoise.

Aqua, Robin's Egg, Tiffany Blue...whatever you choose to call it, I love a little splash of cool, turquoise perfection.  Paired with stark white, its just the touch a room needs for a clean, yet simple feel.  Try fresh, bold stripes, accessorizing with a vase for a pop of color, or wash a little powder room in this amazing hue. This beachy tint is vibrant and energizing, yet still understated and soothing - just the thing to add a fresh new air to your space!

Lonny Magazine [Photo by Patrick Cline/Design by Ruthie Sommers] via Pinterest

Mary McDonald's Office via Pinterest

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via The Glitter Guide

via Decorista

distressed chic.

I'm absolutely loving the look of distressed, casual denim (in a lighter wash) paired with polished, more formal pieces (sequin jackets, structured bags, tailored blazers, pretty pumps).  Maybe its the juxtaposition of opposites, or just the fact that this look is so effortlessly chic...either way, I can't get enough of it. Try cuffing your worn boyfriend jeans for added style or throw on with your favorite tee and a bright blazer...this look can really work for anyone and will definitely give your look a little more edge without a ton of effort.

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via J.Crew

via The Glitter Guide

mid-week inspiration...

Just a little thought to get you through the week...xx

via Mighty To Save



handwritten perfection.

There's nothing quite like a handwritten note, especially when it's sent with love on the perfect personal stationary. The elegant and long established stationer, Demsey and Carroll, has come out with some fabulous designs that I just had to share.  The first, designed by one of my favorite interior designers, Madeline Weinrib, is the perfect combo of simple and chic. The understated cards paired with envelopes lined with the designer's famously chic patterns are timeless and modern at the same time - the perfect gift for a designer friend! The second, a cheekier little correspondance collection, is from the one-and-only Simon Doonan (creative director of Barney's, TV personality and Jonathan Adler's witty counterpart).  His simple cards with little witticisms are the perfect way to send a note with a touch of humor. I love the last one where you can fill in your own little bit of cheeky genius with his "______ is the new ______" card - so fun!

[here is a close-up of Doonan's cards' witty sayings...]

All cards for the Madeline Weinrib and Simon Doonan

for Dempsey and Carroll Collections can be found here.



latest obsession: chevron table accents

As a former event planner, I've seen many a table accent (and designed too many looks to count!), but I am absolutely loving the fresh touch a bright, chevron napkin brings to an event look.  It's modern with a touch of whimsy, but still classic with its graphic, preppy print. I love this touch because its just as appropriate for a fun birthday party or shower as it is for a modern, chic wedding.  Whether its on placemats, napkins, or runners, chevron is definitely the perfect table staple to update your look. I'm currently on the lookout for colorful chevron cocktail napkins for my next hostess gift. Now to choose a color (decisions, decisions!)...



via 100 Layer Cake

via 100 Layer Cake

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via JL Designs

via JL Designs