Hello My Dear Blog

Moving In: Berlin Residence

2012-01-19T11:39:00.000-08:00

Our new friend Malin Elmlid is, of course, a baker and fashion consultant living in Berlin. Her apartment is light and natural and unfussy. And I'd move in in a second.
This is exactly what I want my next apartment to look like.
Read her story and see more images here.

Pretty Parties: Lipstick at the Golden Globes

2012-01-16T10:40:00.000-08:00

Did you watch the Golden Globes last night? I did. Well, sort of. I was watching it with a handful of rather impatient people so we fast-forwarded through quite a bit of it (oh, modern technology). But one thing I did watch was all of the gorgeous actresses and their gorgeous lipstick. So much inspiration this year! Mauve and cherry and strawberry- oh my! You can probably tell by the massive picture of her beautiful face, but Claire Danes knocked my socks off. She just keeps getting better and better doesn't she? So lovely.
sources: claire danes // dianna agron // angelina jolie // evan rachel wood // kate winslet // maya rudolph

Look At This: Tweed Run

2012-01-09T07:59:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year my dear! I hope it's off to an amazing start! I also hope one of your new years resolutions is to wear more tweed and ride vintage bikes through the streets of New York. Because apparently everyone who does this is fabulous. The Tweed Run is a sponsored event by the king of prep himself, Mr. Ralph Lauren (or at least his brand sponsors it) and the gorgeous Jamie Beck was a featured blogger who captured the day beautifully. Just take a peek at these images.

So beautiful. Speaking of, our talented photographer friend, Ms. Jamie Beck is the first pretty lady on the bike in the top left. Isn't she adorable. Yes, yes she is.
(all images are from her delightful blog, From Me To You)

Moving In: Christmas Sheds

2011-12-15T06:39:00.000-08:00

There's something so charming about a thoughtfully created shed. Remember Artemis and Nao's fabulous shed workspaces? I can definitely see those sweet sheds decorated for Christmas and looking a little something like this.

Aren't they amazing?
images from top left and clockwise: wood siding // green wreath // window boxes // lovely lighting // white shed

Look At This: 365 Lucky Days

2011-12-02T12:54:00.000-08:00

So, remember when we used to have time to "create" things? Oh, me either really but I do remember a time when I was less busy and can imagine I may have filled that time creating. Until we get to that point again, let's live vicariously through the incredibly talented Lucky who's decided to make something every day for a whole year: hence the "365 lucky days" project. Her hand-embroidered portraits on top of vintage fabrics make me super happy. Especially because she themes them around topics like "blog crush" and "take this job and shove it". The ladies I'm sharing are from her "bombshell" week and the fellas are from "I think I love you but I'm a preteen and my mom says it's just hormones" week. Hilarious.

These are so many more are from the 365 Lucky Days blog. Check it.

Look At This: Christmas Dioramas

2011-11-28T12:34:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a fabulous Thanksgiving! Mine was really delicious and relaxing—everything you hope it will be! Did you all go out on Friday? Well, I did. And I don't want to talk about it really. It was a disaster. But, I got myself a super great electric toothbrush for a super great price so it was all worth it. Hmmmmm... Let's move on.
Dioramas are so magical aren't they? I kind of forgot how much I love them until I was spending way too much time on pinterest yesterday and ran across a handful of pins from a friend of mine. I'm inspired to make one of my own (or at least seek out a fun one on etsy). Do you have any?

images (from top left): winter scenes under domes (both) // tree under bell // japanese paper scene // octopus // house // reindeer

Pretty Party: Indian Summer

2011-11-07T03:00:00.000-08:00

We've been having unseasonably warm weather lately. Well, that means it's been 60 (which isn't quite 16 degrees Celsius in case you don't deal with Fahrenheit) which isn't exactly a heat wave, but for the first part of November it seems pretty mild. Don't get ahead of yourself, I'm definitely not calling this an Indian Summer but it is lovely and enjoyable like an Indian Summer is. Which is why when I ran across this workshop featured on 100 Layer Cake I felt like it was timely. I suppose in all honestly I'd share this with you without any correlation to the weather. It's stunning. And I know you're going to feel a few things: awe + inspiration + jealousy. At least that's how I felt when I looked at it. Why can't I live in an awesome city that does awesome workshops where you not only learn to make fabulous floral arrangements but you get to eat cupcakes and wear flowers in your hair? Dang it. I'm outta here Illinois—I'm off to visit Amy Osaba (and her fantastic new work space) in Atlanta.

images from 100 layer cake (except the first graphic image which is from and designed by erica loesing)

Moving In: Stråhattfabriken

2011-11-03T10:27:00.000-07:00

Oh you lovely Swedes — you sure know how to design for my heart. This apartment complex was once a factory and is now the most gorgeous space. Such light and openness. If you weren't so far away (and probably a zillion dollars more than I could afford) I'd be putting in an application immediately.

all images from the Oscar Properties website (check it out, there are lots of inspiring projects featured).

Look At This: Miss Eve

2011-10-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Normally when I see a "look-at-my-style" blog I have one of three reactions: eye roll (oops, did I say that outloud?), overwhelming knowledge of how I'll never be that cool or I'm inspired to rock a huge flower and mix some patterns. When Bri (of designlovefest) introduced me to this teensy fashionista I was incredibly inspired. Eve is the daughter of the amazing photographer Jen Altman and is only five years old! The little "about Eve" section declares that she puts her outfits together entirely on her own and then, when she feels like it, has her mama take her picture. Then it gets blogged to inspire us all. Adorable.

I am sincerely on the lookout for a pair of cowboy boots. Amazing.
(all images from Eve's blog)

Meet: Seth Smoot

2011-10-25T06:17:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear! I hope your week is off to an excellent start. We've been having a bit of off-and-on indian summer for the past couple of weeks and yesterday was another gorgeous fall day. This morning, however, looks a little gloomy and cold so today's post is a bit more grey than bright orange. You know how I love a moody photograph and Mr. Seth Smoot of NYC sure delivers. I saw his work on one of my all-time favorites, emmas design blogg, and had to scoot on over and see his portfolio for myself. What a talent. Here are some that I was drawn to.

Don't you just want to go outside right this minute and collect some twigs to paint the most vibrant mustard yellow imaginable? Me too! At least they're easy to gather this time of year. Have a good day!
(all images are from Seth's portfolio. Pop on over there to see them all!)

Listen To This: Cotton Jones

2011-10-21T12:50:00.000-07:00

Oh man. Plaid, beards, scarves and honey-coated voices with acoustic guitar. This song has my name written all over it. Hope you enjoy it. (PS. Thanks miss Rachel for the introduction! Fall mixes are the best.)

cotton jones // i am the changer

Meet: Mary Blair

2011-10-18T06:30:00.000-07:00

Pinterest is blowing up! More and more of my friends are joining (which by the way means more and more of your friends are joining too - are you there already?). This is great news because the internet is humongous and I just don't have enough time to look at it all. Luckily my friends (real life or internet based) are pinning up a storm. One lovely lady I follow introduced me to the artist Mary Blair and I knew I had to share her with you. Mary was an artist with Disney from 1943 - 1953 and her hand touched some of my favorite Disney classics such as Peter Pan, Cinderella and Alice in Wonderland. Her watercolors are so whimsical and sweet — I know you'll love them.

images from top left and across: flying // alice tea // cinderella mirror // caterpillar // apple blossoms // sleeping beauty // cinderella castle // tinkerbell // alices table // lost boys // cinderella + the prince

Look At This: Swedish Playground Design

2011-10-17T08:58:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness. As if I needed yet another reason to wish I lived in Sweden. How sweet and awesome are these playgrounds? I follow the blog of Elisabeth Dunker called Fine Little Day which chronicles her gorgeous life and her design inspiration. She recently posted about an amazing playground near to her home that has characters fashioned after a popular (in Sweden anyway) children's book. They got me interested in other playgrounds in Sweden and, of course, they're fabulous. Here are some of my finds. Happy Monday my dear! Get out and play!

image sources from top left and across: little blue houses // caterpillar // watermelon // dog // dog's behind // capped character // reclining man // egg // teeter totter

Listen To This: The Eels

2011-10-14T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear! I hope you've had a good week - it's a gorgeous Fall morning here and I'm about to join up with a couple of girlfriends to hit, what has the potential to be, an awesome vintage/handmade sale. So exciting! But before I go I thought you might like a sweet song to start your weekend.

the eels//that look you give that guy
Don't you just love a bearded man? I sure do. Although his is maybe a little out of control he's adorable. See you next week!

Pretty Party: Pink + Blue + Sugary Sweet

2011-10-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

I have many talented friends with many unique and awe-inspiring gifts but only one of them (sweet Lindsay) has the ability to make the words "key lime tartlets" look even more delicious than the tartlets themselves. I am not the only person that has realized she has amazing penmanship—luckily there are lots of people from all over the country that have asked her to create things for them. And, yeah for us!, one bridal shower she made art for was featured on Style Me Pretty last week. Which means I have some great photos for you that not only showcase her work but is a darn sweet bridal shower. Blue and pink is always a good idea and in this case, with all of the sugary sweet details, it's an important grounder for the decor. Without that pop of sassy blue the entire party (cutie guests included) would've floated into the sky.

Who needs a cookie? Me too - let's go!
(all images from Style Me Pretty)

At The Design Blog: October Calendar

2011-10-06T19:35:00.000-07:00

Well, it's only just October, luckily. With the month or so I've been having I'm surprised that I'm getting this up at all! It's one of my favorites though so I had to share it. Head over to the Design Blog to see the whole thing and download your copy.

Hello My Dear + Welcome to the Laundromat

2011-10-04T07:19:00.000-07:00

Hi there friends. I know you've missed me (I've missed you too!) but all sorts of new things are happening around here and I'm just plain ol' busy with life stuff. I'm not leaving, don't tear up prematurely, I'm just posting a little less frequently (obviously).
That said, my sweet friend Christina asked me to do a guest post on her blog while she's away from her computer for a bit. Want to learn a little more about me? Head over there.
Oh and I'll have something for you tomorrow (including, but hopefully not limited to, the October calendar). xo

Moving In: A House on the Hudson

2011-09-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

Have you seen The Family Stone? It's this pseudo-Christmas movie that I think is actually quite charming and lovely but a lot of people I know really don't like it. Maybe it's because it's a little dark and heavy for a Holiday film or maybe it's because it has Sarah Jessica Parker in it (people seem to have a really strong opinion of her one way or the other... usually the other). Anyway, I love it. I watch it all year 'round. I think one of the reasons I love it is because of the family house. It's so warm and full and reflects a life devoted to beautiful and creative things. You should see it if for no other reason than the set is inspiring. That said, when I ran across this Hudson Valley home on Martha Stewarts site it really reminded me of the Stone house and I thought you might like to see it.
The owner is the gorgeous white-haired lady in the first row of photos. I love to see the people who live in these spaces - you can attach so much personality to their faces when you look at the rooms they inhabit. She's done a wonderful job of incorporating classical pieces in an eclectic and not-at-all stuffy manner. The house sits on 87 acres and the house looks quite big, so I bet she wouldn't mind company.

All images are from Martha (and there are even a handful more including a charming craft room she made for her twelve grandkids. Lucky kids.)

Loving: Round Barns

2011-09-28T06:43:00.000-07:00

My mom and I drove from Rockford to Oregon, Illinois yesterday. It's been wet the past few days so although we're in Fall and technically everything is dying, the world was spectacularly green and lush. The drive is really lovely - tree lined roads, the river in all of its swollen majesty and some really gorgeous old buildings. Especially the barns. I'm particularly attracted to round barns. Something about them is so whimsical and charming don't you think? It's the circle - circles are definitely the friendliest shape. I've collected some round barns for you -have you ever seen one of these in person? Even the broken down ones are glorious.

images from: westby // ohio barns // gwen gutwein

Look At This: Handwritten Letter Project

2011-09-22T04:59:00.000-07:00

I went to a flea market this past weekend (as an aside, it's a good thing I don't have a million and a half dollars and a huge house because I'd fill it with every awesome vintage thing I loved - which is pretty much all of them - and no one needs that many salt and pepper shakers). Among the couple of things I did come home with was this gorgeous, illustrated souvenir book of the Chicago World's Fair in the 1930s. The watercolor illustrations and few sentences about each exhibit were incentive enough to buy it; but it didn't stop there. On the exterior flap of the book, in traditional "old person" handwriting, the worlds "old" and "save" were written. Looking at that script made me miss every single elderly person I've lost and I felt like (a) any of them would've written that because they knew a cool thing when they saw it and (b) since they all seem to have exactly the same penmanship any of them actually could've written it. Now they probably didn't, but that's the thing about that era of students learning cursive: for some reason, no matter where they were in the US and even abroad from what I can see, they all learned the same style. I don't have the energy to talk about whether or not this was a good thing and what social implications this conveys, but I do have the energy to say that at the very least, that generation knew how to write. They could put pen to the paper without it turning into a giant scribbly mess (well most of them anyway) and they were forced to communicate with each other in a physical as opposed to digital fashion. I'm not going to tell you to write more letters but I will say that your great great grandchildren (or just some random child in the future) will probably be way more excited to find a handwritten note than an email.
This is not the first time you're hearing this. This is also probably not the first time you've told yourself "self, pen more letters to the people you love". However, this may be the first time you're seeing this "Handwritten Letter Project" in which Craig Oldham invited designers and artist to write him a letter on their own stationery. Some were simply that and others had a little note and a lot of illustration or a note with beautifully hand-rendered type. I'd like to get my hands on a copy of this book to read what people thought worthy of writing and also to see the vast differences in modern penmanship. It's very fascinating to me. Take a peek.

images from the HLP site

Pretty Party: Shower Shower

2011-09-21T02:00:00.000-07:00

I went to a super sweet baby shower this past Sunday for a super sweet girlfriend of mine. The theme of said shower was pretty much just awesomeness - bunting and delicious nibblies and fruit-infused water served in glass baby bottles (which I'd never seen before—and I've been to my fair share of showers). Now I'm not exactly opposed to "themes" but they have the tendency to get a little out of hand. I've found one though that got me pretty excited. Have you seen this before? A "shower" shower? Isn't it clever? I don't think it's crazy overdone so that's a check in the positive column. What do you think?

image sources: blue + yellow // umbrella + rain // cloud cookies // striped straws // cloud cupcakes // watering can // rain + white pouf // artwork // rainboots

Listen To This: James Vincent McMorrow

2011-09-16T07:20:00.000-07:00

I went to a show last night. I've been wanting to for awhile and I was invited by a great friend (with great taste in music) to see a fella that I hadn't ever heard of. The tickets were affordable and I didn't have to drive so I decided to go along. Man am I glad I did. This Irish gentleman has such a great voice and was so lovely to watch and listen to. He has such a mellow sound that I didn't know how it would translate into concert form but with the band and his chitchat it made for a really great (and surprisingly lively) evening. He's currently on his first-ever headlining American tour so check out the cities/dates on his site and go support him. Bring a friend - shows are always better with friends.

james vincent mcmorrow // if i had a boat

Moving In: Eclectic Cottage

2011-09-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness—this is so great. The perfect mix of light and bright and funky and timeless. Emily Henson (prop stylist extraordinaire!) has done it again. I grabbed this from her recent work but there was no information about what publication it was in or who it belonged to. It was simply titled "eclectic cottage". Do you suppose that means it's up for grabs? If so, I'll take it. And love it forever. (Don't worry, you can visit.)

images from Emily's site. Photographs were taken by John Vincent and Teri Lyn Fisher.

Listen To This: Bandana Splits

2011-09-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear! I hope you had a lovely weekend. The weather was absolutely gorgeous here in Northern Illinois. The air was thick with people realizing it was probably one of the last really warm and sunny days of the season - especially the last weekend day - so there was a lot of loud music being pumped through open car windows. I had to drive a bit to a backyard celebration so I was one of those hooligans (although at one point I drove past an older man reading George W. Bush's biography on his front lawn and I did turn my stereo down - right after he shot me a dirty look. Eek.). These last days of summer make everyone around here giddy and put me in the mood for some retro revival, feel good music. I think I'm still confused on what day it is and I didn't post a music video on Friday so I thought I'd do it today. But since it's Monday and not Friday I'm not doing tweets (@hmdtweets), I've made you a board instead. Yeah!I hope you like it (if you do, go get the album and cruise around town. Quick! Before it starts to snow!)

bandana splits // sometimes

felix clock // retro radio // fringe shoe // gelati print // bow // red dress

Moving In: Byron Bay

2011-09-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

Jeez I love a good beachy house. Even though I can't actually see any beach in these photographs, the lightness and brightness and overall breeziness of this home implies the beach. And it's in Byron Bay (Australia of course) which is gorgeous ocean views everywhere so it must be near the water. It doesn't matter - there's a pool and a sweet porch and, what's that over there? Oh it's just a skate ramp. Coolest parents ever. Enjoy!

images from Inside Out magazine via the style files

Bon Appetit: The Walrus + The Carpenter

2011-09-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

One thing I wish Rockford Illinois had more of is great restaurants. We have a handful but this city of mine hasn't quite mastered the importance of good food and ambiance - it's generally one or the other. Which brings me to the sharing of the Walrus and the Carpenter oyster bar in Seattle. It's the perfect blend of industrial and comfort decor. The grey, white and yellow is super charming.

Now if anything could make me eat an oyster it'd be those yellow stools and that handlebar mustache. All of it is lovely.
images are from stephmodo // w + c site // the new york times

Look At This: Thao + Mirah On Tour

2011-09-06T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear! Did you have a nice long weekend? I always have such a great Labor Day weekend but it makes me a little sad knowing that ice and snow is just around the corner. Since I didn't get to experience any of that last year (and I honestly do enjoy it up until after the first of the year when it just keeps on being freezing and there's no Christmas cheer to warm you) I was able to enjoy the weekend without any of that forlorn. Oh and I spent Sunday with some amazing friends celebrating a marriage so it was even sweeter. The wedding forced me to do a bit of driving—over an hour each way—so I got to spend some time with my ipod. The drive back today was especially fun since I knew where I was going and I didn't have to get back at any particular time, I was able to relax and think about what I wanted to listen to. This got me in the mood to go see a show and when I got home I decided to see who's planning a fall tour near me. Well, The Tallest Man on Earth isn't (although he IS going to be in Brisbane in October) but Thao Nguyen is playing with The Get Down Stay Down in Madison Wisconsin and Chicago Illinois and I'd love to go see them. This leads me to today's share. On Thao's blog she shared this great story that Wendy Macnaughton illustrated showing bits and pieces from a tour that Thao did with Mirah. Wendy's watercolor sketches really tickled me, I think you'll love them too.

here's the whole story

At The Design Blog: September Calendar

2011-09-02T16:13:00.000-07:00

Happy September everybody! Go get this month's desktop calendar from the HMD design blog.

Listen To This: Little Dragons

2011-09-02T04:00:00.000-07:00

Generally speaking when I'm trying to decide on a song to share with you the video is one of the major factors. Which usually means no live tracks (unless they're still recorded in a studio) and no "fan" videos. Because they're often really bad. Not the case with today's song. This video, which is basically a clip from the movie "Vivre sa Vie" with this gorgeous French woman Anna Karina, feels completely right to me. I hope you enjoy the song and the clip.

little dragon // please turn
This week's tweets were a little sparse, but I'm done traveling for awhile and I've got myself an iPhone (yeah!) so hopefully I'll be better in the coming weeks. Regardless, here they are:

awesome + inspired wedding table decor // interesting VMA moments // go see this movie (I promise it's not as sad as this picture makes it look)
Have a great Labor Day my dear! I'll see you here again on Tuesday! xo

Pretty Party: Camp-Out Wedding

2011-09-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Remember how yesterday I told you all about this weekends massive family camp-out? Well, I'm still in the mood to look at awesome camping inspiration. Which is why I got so excited when I found this delightful camping-inspired wedding shoot. I'm obsessed with his plaid shirt and all the delicious s'more details. Are you doing anything outdoorsy this Labor Day weekend?

images are from elizabeth anne designs and the sweetest occasion

Loving: Caravans

2011-08-31T21:04:00.001-07:00

My parents are hosting a huge camp-out this weekend. My aunts and uncles and cousins are all coming over for a barbecue and s'mores and campfire stories. Then we're all going to get in our sleeping bags and sleep under the stars — well, in our tents under the stars but still. It sounds pretty awesome and will be the perfect way for me to see all the family I've missed this past year. However, as much as I'm going to love chatting and giggling with my cousins late into the night, I can't help but wish I was in one of these sweet caravans as opposed to laying in a sleeping bag on the ground. My parents use to have a pop-up camper that was such a gorgeous way to be in nature without being so IN nature. At least I'll still have access to running water (and a shower!). Look at how charming these caravans are.

images (from top left and across): fairway // constance // airstream // little girl peeking // cushions // couple lounging // kitchen // teepee // floral bench // blue windows // checked floor // wood paneling // scalloped cupboards // green + white // white interior // matilda // airstream + awning // in the woods // plaid curtains // quilted door // trunk // red + white // pink fan // cute couple

Meet: Clair Olivia Wayman

2011-08-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

You know how much I love my magazines. It broke my heart to leave them behind in Australia but I just absolutely could not fit them in my suitcase. Seriously. The weight of my three suitcases, one massive carry-on duffel bag and a shockingly heavy purse almost brought the plane down. But I had to buy one last magazine at the airport and it was the September issue of Real Living. I can't tell you how much I love this magazine (I love it so much that I looked up how much a subscription to the US would cost me - let's just say that it's around $15 an issue. I'm still considering it.). I love the photographs, the recipes, the product suggestions, the whole thing. So it's not surprising that I fell in love with the portfolio off Melbourne-based stylist (and now shop owner) Clair. She's worked for years for Real Living and her style certainly reflects that. The images are light and easy and livable yet beautifully styled and inspired. I think you'll definitely spot some good ideas.

So much loveliness. (images are from her site and you can read a great interview here)
Oh, and if you're ever in Melbourne, visit Curio and Curio on Flinders street — this is the shop of Clair and her partner Nick. I'm bummed I missed it when I was there, but something tells me that wasn't my last trip to Melbourne. Just in case your trip is still a few years out, here are some shots of the store.

Look At This: Ms. Sadie North

2011-08-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I feel exhausted immediately after I get up in the morning. Sometimes I don't have the energy to take my lunch dishes to the sink. Occasionally I don't get dressed and watch Law and Order SVU all freakin' day. The days when I start complaining about getting old/not having any motivation/not getting enough sleep — those are the days I come across someone like Sadie. This sweet lady is 77 years old (or was in September 1952) and is as inspiring as they come. She mows her lawn, sings in the church choir, earns her money by babysitting and as a practical nurse, teaches young women swimming, learned to ride a bike when she was 67 and now rides it everywhere, taught herself to type (and wears a visor like a newspaper editor while she composes her letters - adorable)... geez. I should stop complaining and actually go do something with my life! Sadie, you're forever an inspiration.

Does she remind you of anyone you knew/know?
(sadie images are from LIFE magazine [via Miss Moss] and the print is from natalie candlish)

Listen To This: James Darren (and Gidget)

2011-08-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

I've had a hankerin' for some Gidget for awhile now and hanging out on the California beaches has only increased the want. Luckily I found the three-disc set (Gidget, Gidget Goes to Rome and Gidget goes Hawaiian) at a thrift shop here in Ventura. And it's so amazing. I love this era: dashing men, gorgeous fashion, whimsical vocabulary (who came up with "Moondoggy" for goodness sakes?!). It's all too perfect, especially since I've spent the past few days soaking up the Cali sun. Enjoy my dear!

James Darren // No Such Thing As The Next Best Thing To Love

And here are this week's tweets (@hellomydeartweets)

my friends letterpress // great read // a little about ventura // i want to go to there // great design on sale // my new fools gold necklace

Pack You Bags: Wandawega Lake Resort

2011-08-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

If you never thought you'd be booking a flight to Elkhorn Wisconsin you were sorely mistaken because after you see what I'm about to show you you'll for sure be checking your schedule. Wandawega is this cool, retro-styled, charming lake resort (on Lake Wandawega of course) that has a lodge as well as cabins. It's got great history (a place to get a drink during prohibition, visit a lady of the night or if you're a Latvian Priest it was a great place to retire) and the current owners have really embraced and honored all of this by returning the space to it's former glory. They encourage anyone with stories or photographs from the resort to share them. I love this. They have a great video and some lovely photos on their site (check it out!). In conclusion, let's go enjoy what's left of the summer at Wandawega.

So freakin gorgeous! (images are from their blog // their site // their flickr stream)

Look At This: Lovely Lemons

2011-08-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

While I'm here in California unfortunately my design work does not stop. Well fortunately because I really enjoy it and because my coffee addiction warrants me making money, but you know what I mean. So this afternoon I did a little design work in my friend's backyard surrounded by citrus trees - the most prominent one being a gorgeous lemon tree directly in front of me. Which obviously inspired this post.

images from top left: menu // lemons + branches // botanic print // special sale // above the bed print // lemon + rosemary cake recipe (click here to see the recipe more easily. Then send me a piece. Please + thank you.) // bedding // grater // pucker up // marmalade // gin + tonic (also send me one of these if you please) // dress // lemon curd

Moving In: Josh + Jenna

2011-08-23T00:35:00.000-07:00

All of you non-Australians really missed out on a great reality TV show recently. The Block was a super entertaining show that centered around a row of four houses in Melbourne being renovated by four teams of two (three couples and one set of sisters). Basically these four houses had to be completely redone (surfaces, wiring, plumbing, exterior) and after they completed this massive task (in only ten weeks by the way!) the houses went up for auction. The overall winner was determined by which house sold for the most over their reserve price. I missed the finale because I decided to leave Australia right before it aired. But thanks to the internets (and a super great sister-in-law still in Oz) I know all of the details. Shockingly the only house that sold was Waz and Polly's. They didn't do my favorite work but they were my favorite team - they were hilarious and pleasant and full of personality. Oh and it felt like they really loved each other which was very sweet to watch. But this post isn't about them. The couple that did do my favorite work was Josh and Jenna. They were definitely the youngest of the teams (he's 24, she's 23) and they had that trendy/vintage/diy decorating style that I dig so much. They used grey as their neutral backdrop but then added great artwork and cushions and vintage lighting to make the room exciting and fresh. I think you're going to like this. Oh, and if you have a few hundred thousand dollars laying around the house is still for sale.

all images are from channel 9's site. Head over there to see the other houses and read all about the show - if you're interested. Oh! I almost forgot! A cute side note: Josh proposed to Jenna at the auction. She said yes. They're adorable.

Loving: Stripes

2011-08-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

Oh hello my dear. I told you it might be a bit of a break and, well, it was. I'm officially back in the U S of A. I'm visiting friends in California before hopping yet another plane back to Illinois. Cali is really lovely and it's so good to enjoy some of the American things I've missed (Old Navy, bagels, root beer) but I am missing Australia (and my family/friends) something fierce. What better way to move forward then to get back into the bloggin' groove? So, here we go.
I've always really enjoyed stripes in interiors. My first apartment after college had a really lovely, bright kitchen with walls I painted green tonal stripes and I think it made it my favorite room in the house - it was just so darn cheery! Yes they were a huge pain and they were uneven and bled a little into each other, but the idea was great and the imperfections made them charming. Right? Obviously. Well, enough about my design adventures, let's see some pretty stripes.

images from top left: dining room // teal bedroom// black + white rug // planter // blue + white rug // porch // bathroom // entry // yellow bathroom // gallery wall // grey + white // neutral rug // red stripe chair

Look At This: Food Trucks

2011-08-15T02:38:00.000-07:00

Well. It had to come to an end I suppose. This week (actually in four days) I leave Australia and my brother and sister-in-law and all of my friends and family here. It sounds awful (and it kind of is) but it's also really exciting. After I leave here I'm going to spend a week and a half in Ventura, California with some dear friends soaking up some sun and enjoying some of the American things I've missed (Target!). That said, I have no idea what this week is going to look like on the blog. I really need to leave some space for good-byes and packing and then jet lag on the other side (on top of continuing to do some design work). So, when I post this week they'll probably be much shorter than normal. Thanks for your encouragement and understanding these past few weeks! Once I'm settled back in the states things'll be back to normal. Promise!
Now, for today's post!
Have you familiarized yourself with this food trend: food trucks? Well, from what I can gather they're making quite a stir in the foodie world. Not only are they fun and summery and unique, but apparently they're also delicious offering everything from all-beef hot dogs to mexican to korean bbq. Inspired Mag recently presented an infographic from Mashable that put together chronicling the rise of the social food truck. Very interesting (and pretty).

And just to give you a glimpse into what some of these beasts look like, here are a few images featuring some of the "favorites" listed above.

images from top left: spencer on the go // border grill // kogi bbq (both)

Listen To This: Raphael Saadiq

2011-08-12T04:13:00.000-07:00

I'm about to have a very emotional week as I say goodbye to everyone and everything that has been my life for a year. I board a plane on Thursday from Australia back to the US and I'm scared and excited and hopeful. That said, today's song had to be fun and upbeat and not the slightest bit mopey because I don't need any help into a funk. Enter Raphael Saadiq. Do you know him? He was part of Tony! Toni! Tone! back in the day and he has definitely still got it. Prepare to shoulder dance in your chair my dear.

raphael saadiq // 100 yard dash
On to this week's tweets! (@hmdtweets)

sliding to work // upholstery tutorial // faux-logos // beirut! // diy table numbers

Have an excellent weekend lovelies! xo

Office Space: Urban Outfitters Headquarters

2011-08-11T04:44:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love a thoughtful and well-executed adaptive reuse? For as long as I can remember I've loved old buildings and have valued their preservation so I was so excited when I saw this Urban Outfitters project. The Philadelphia based company moved their 600+ employees from their five or so buildings in downtown Philly to a no-longer-used and newly renovated Navy yard. The campus is stunning as is the interior of the huge buildings. I'd love to work in such a lovely (and environmentally friendly) building. Read more about the design, and watch a video on the process, here.

images from archdaily with photographs by lara swimmer and designed by ms + r architects

Meet: Mark Tuckey

2011-08-10T02:57:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready to move everything I've accumulated over the past year across the world and since I'm allowed two checked bags this means I have a lot of purging to do. I've been spending a few afternoons going through magazines and ripping out lovely and important things. Today I flipped through a back issue of Australian Bazaar and came across the home of furniture designer Mark Tuckey. His beach house definitely got removed from it's binding and will be traveling across the ocean with me (where it will no doubt find a home in a binder of similarly gorgeous rooms and I'll never look at it again). I decided you might want to see it too, so off I went to explore what the internets had to say about him. I had no idea the gorgeous-ness I was about to find. Not only are his homes (yes, there are a few) beautiful, but his stores and design work and furniture are absolutely lovely. I've once again collected (maybe a few too many) images for you to be inspired by. Hope you are.

If you're a fellow Australian, are you watching "The Block"? If you are you probably recognize some of his furniture from Josh and Jenna's and Katrina and Amie's rooms. He has some really great pieces.
Images from Mark's site.

Pretty Party: Jess + TJ

2011-08-09T02:48:00.000-07:00

I saw this wedding featured on 100 Layer Cake and was smitten. The backdrop was a lovely Colorado ranch full of mountain views and lakes and horses; the bride wore a bespoke lace gown; the groom and his men were in bow ties; they had an illustration of their pup (with a crown!) on their save the date; the barn offered gorgeous plaid couches for relaxing. Oh, and that quilt! The bride and groom asked their guests to send a square of fabric with their response cards which were then stitched into a quilt and wrapped around the newly pronounced husband and wife. Adorable. Have a gander.

Aren't those fabric swashes above the tables breathtaking? I'd love to eat beneath them.
images are from: 100 layer cake and gia canali's blog

Window Shopping: Folk Clothing

2011-08-08T03:12:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this amazing website called hip shops? It's kind of everything I love: boutique, thoughtful shop design showcasing unique products. Oh and the shops are from Paris and London and Amsterdam and other places I probably won't be getting to any time in the near future so they're super fun to explore. So of course I did... explore. And I found one I'd like to share with you: Folk Clothing in London. I was immediately drawn to the suspended shelving units and modern, industrial decor. And those amazing yellow, grey and white sunbursts. What do you love?

images from: hip shops // iya design // folk design

Listen To This: Gotye + Kimbra

2011-08-05T01:33:00.000-07:00

It goes without saying that I was very sad to leave Sydney after having such a magical time. Want to know what kept me from crying? Hot chocolate and tv. Now there weren't many channels available, it was pretty much just nickelodeon and fox news but I found something I could watch for more than five minutes at a time: music videos. I bet you know where this is going (cause you're so clever)... I saw this video moments before we landed and I fell in love with it. The song has an 80s feel to it and the boy is cute and Kimbra contributes her amazing talent. All in all, it's very successful.

Gotye + Kimbra // Somebody that I used to know
Oh. And. Ummmm... there aren't any tweets this week. I'm a big ol' slacker. Have a good weekend though! Book a flight somewhere if you can. Or just explore your own neighborhood.

At The Design Blog: August Calendar

2011-08-04T16:11:00.000-07:00

Just a little bit late: August calendar for you over at the HMD design blog.

Pack Your Bags: Sydney

2011-08-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

Hello my dear! So sorry for the (short) hiatus that turned into a big one! I won't go into it, I'll just say that life was a tad more important than this post for a minute there. But now I'm back and am so excited to share Sydney with you! A friend of mine from college arrived here just in time to board yet another plane with my sister-in-law and brother and I to travel to my new favorite city. We flew over the Sydney harbour (and the Opera House!) and my cup runneth over for the next three days. Sydney has such a great feel about it - so established and comfortable and easy. Now, to be fair, this could be because the weather was absolutely gorgeous (as opposed to the rain and chill we had in Melbourne) and because I was with two people that had visited the city before so we had a plan, but Sydney beat Melbourne for me. I only say that because apparently you have to have a favorite (it's a bitter rivalry); if it were up to me I'd say they're really different and therefore I can't pick one over the other. But it's not up to me so Sydney gets my vote. But I still love you Melbourne...
Here's a brief recap of my trip: admiring the Opera House; eating dim sum; exploring the botanic gardens; drinking at the oldest pub in Sydney while listening to a live dixie land jazz band; eating amazing mexican food at the Flying Fajita Sistas; bed; coffee!; shopping in the CBD (central business district); pumpkin soup; exploring New Town; dinner at an amazing modern Indian restaurant; sleeping; breakfast at the famous Bourke Street Bakery; Bondi beach walk and photographs; best fish and chips ever; the lace exhibit at the Powerhouse museum; walk back to Bounce hotel (which by the way was AMAZING and highly recommended) and taxi to the airport. Phew. It was a busy few days but so worth it. I know you're excited to see pictures so let's get to it...

PS. If you're the cute boy in the pink shorts playing beach rugby: hi, let's hang out.

Another (short) hiatus

2011-07-30T02:40:00.000-07:00

My friends, I'm traveling again. I'll be boarding a plane for Sydney in eleven hours and I'll be gone until Tuesday night. Which means you're on your own again for a bit. But I'll miss you while I'm wandering around the Sydney Harbour. xo

Listen To This: Agnes Obel

2011-07-29T03:55:00.000-07:00

This is nothing more than a haunting, simple, sweet tune to start your weekend. Doing anything fun?

agnes obel // riverside
And as far as this week's tweets go (@hmdtweets) well, it was a light week what with my being away and all of that. Here are the four links I have for you my dears.

left to right:
calm down party
jcrew's famous poppy pout
brooklyn!
pack some potato salad

Enjoy the weekend! Hope you too are enjoying some lovely weather!

Meet: Sharon Taylor

2011-07-28T23:45:00.000-07:00

Ms. Sharon Taylor is an interior designer and event coordinator—don't we wish we were too? I know I do, maybe one of these years. In the meantime we'll admire the portfolios of those that are. Sharon has a lovely online gallery containing images that mix colors and patterns and vintage and modern. I'd live in any of these rooms and would feel so special attending any of her events.

All of these images are from her portfolio, visit that and her blog.

Well Designed: Business Cards

2011-07-27T02:13:00.000-07:00

I'm a collector of paper—I have brochures and postcards and business cards from all over the place (I collected no less than 40 random pieces of paper during my Melbourne trip); so it goes without saying that my heart beats fast for a good business card. I've been putting off designing some for Hello My Dear sort of because I'm moving in a month and I thought I'd put a more permanent phone number on there but also because I'm over-inspired and afraid that as soon as I get them printed I'll want to change them. I've made a handful of cards (for Ben // Dan) and it was great fun but designing for yourself is a different story. I'll get to it one of these days. And I promise to share them when I do. In the meantime, enjoy these lovely examples.

image sources from top left: four tines // watercolor // hello lucky // kathryn whyte // katie daisy // george sharp // shyama // caitlin // whitney // kate murphy // taylor black // mad brew // hammer // animal agency // butterfield // jimmys iced coffee // cortney // marlies // franks // postal service // precision // halftone def // eight hour day // edyta // popcorn

Pack Your Bags: Melbourne

2011-07-26T04:41:00.000-07:00

Oh my friends I just got back from a great adventure in Melbourne—I spent three days in the city and two days exploring the Great Ocean Road and Phillip Island. I enjoyed great food and great company (my brother and sister-in-law) and saw my first wild koalas and kangaroos. Melbourne is a really great city with lots of interesting nooks and crannies. I wish that I could've spent a little more time wandering but we definitely spent a good amount of time shopping and cocktailing and riding trams.
As for the Great Ocean Road, what can I say? It was absolutely stunning. The Twelve Apostles (a collection of limestone stacks off the shore) were breathtaking and we had a perfectly sunny, warm day to observe them. We also saw koalas and kangaroos in the wild (yes, they do exist!) and we visited Phillip Island to watch the penguins come out of the ocean at dusk and make their way to their burrows. This was as adorable as it sounds: one second you're staring at ocean and sand and then the tide goes out and all of a sudden there is a group of little blue penguins. They spend the next few minutes trying to get out of the water and as soon as their teeny feet hit dry sand they waddle out as fast as they can (which isn't very fast because they're penguins). Then we wandered through their habitats and listened to them talk to each other. It's really great. You should go...
I thought I'd share some photos with you. Everything is pretty self-explanatory but if you have any questions, ask them in the comment section. Sorry for the not so great pictures. My camera's pretty good for a point and shoot but particularly in low light it's a little fuzzy. Maybe once I stop traveling the globe I'll get a nice camera.

I wish you could've been there with me! Thanks for tolerating my absence, it's so nice to see you again!
(all images are mine)

Loving: 60s Interiors, Part Two

2011-07-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

While I was researching yesterday's post I came across these stunning illustrations by artist Charles Schridde done to advertise for Motorola. His environments do an amazing job of incorporating futuristic interior design within a seemingly isolated space and somehow they manage to be both modern and traditional. Anyway, they speak for themselves. Which is your favorite?

All of these images are from Flickr.
I also ran across these awesome videos chatting about the House of the Future at Disneyland's Tomorrow Land. Really fun and kitchy. Oh, and I'd totally live there.

One more thing, I'm going to Melbourne for a little vacation (yippee!), and I'm leaving my laptop behind. Sorry friends, but this means I won't be posting again until Monday. Enjoy the rest of the internet my dears! xo

Loving: 60s Interiors, Part One

2011-07-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

I watched "Made In Dagenham" recently and besides being a very uplifting and fun film about the equal pay for women law in the UK (in the late 1960s), it was also really enjoyable to look at. I don't know if I'm retro enough to fully appreciate wall to wall shag carpeting or a massive orange couch but still I am attracted to these sorts of garish interiors. I ought to admit at this point in the story that I do own a fabulous baby blue vinyl sofa that I absolutely adore and I would love to have a Mies van der Rohe Barcelona chair, but I don't know that I could live with wall to vaulted ceiling wood paneling. I'd be willing to give it a go...

It really was a fun era in interior design. Oh, and you read that right, this is only part one of two. Stay tuned tomorrow for a special treat.
images (from top left): glass wall // exterior // pink dining // piano // records // fireplace // pipe-smoking gentleman // sunken living // antlers // pink kitchen // raised dining // bar stools

Look At This: Antler Mag + Manimal

2011-07-18T02:44:00.000-07:00

The cover of the latest issue of Antler magazine has the expected lovely lady in a hat and fringe halter with the word "pioneer" in the bottom corner. I get excited when I hear (or see) that word: pioneer. My brain goes into overdrive with images of large-brimmed hats, lace up boots and floral-print maxi dresses. Luckily as I flicked through the pages I was only more inspired. And I added horses to my imaginary prairie scene. You'll see why.

And while I was flipping through some past issues of the digital magazine I happened across this Brooklyn-based business that not only makes really lovely things but fits perfectly with my imagined "pioneer". Manimal offers moccasins and other leather goods (they even have a couple of vegan options).

Listen To This: Fergie Ferg

2011-07-15T00:02:00.001-07:00

This song is so crazy catchy. And you know what? Fergie's adorable and the video's clever and it's retro-styled and fun and a perfect start to the weekend. So there.

fergie // clumsy

And here's some fun stuff I found this week (don't forget, you can get these gems early by following me on the twitter @hmdtweets). Have an excellent weekend my dear!
old school book report style
coolest wedding guest — star wars edition
i want to go to there
fancy + fabulous hair dye idea
family history in kodachrome
recovering a chair seat
savory lollipops

Well Designed: Farmer's Market

2011-07-14T04:05:00.000-07:00

Farmer's Markets are really lovely—all those beautiful colors and textures and smells. And luckily so many of the markets have employed amazing illustrators and designers to put together their marketing material. Here are some floating around the internet. Does your local market have great design?

images from top left: corn // onion // moose bag // dancing vegetables // farm // dachshund // strawberry + grapes // beet bag // hope // rye // mt. washington // bike bag

Look At This: Icy Babies

2011-07-13T04:18:00.000-07:00

It's funny how it never really occurred to me that while I was baking away in the hot-ish Illinois summer sun, my mates down under were freezing in their non-insulated houses. This is now only too apparent as I sit here wishing I had some of those fancy fingerless gloves to help keep me warm while I put this post together. And it's July, a typically miserably hot month. Now that you understand my icy state of mind, you can see why I was drawn to these gorgeous icy babies from illustrator/graphic designer Thereza Rowe. I love that she sees (and helps us to see) the funny little creatures just waiting to be noticed in otherwise mundane patches of snow. When I get home to the snow I'll be on the lookout for these guys.

There are more on Thereza's site (along with some other really great illustrations).

Pretty Party: Something Blue with Feather + Stone

2011-07-12T15:46:00.000-07:00

I went to the Finder's Keepers Markets a few weeks ago and saw lots and lots of really lovely things created by equally as lovely people. Feather + Stone photography set up a charming photo booth complete with great props and a gorgeous, sparkly, colorful background. Of course my friend and I had our photo taken (she was a pirate and I was a bear) and while we waited for the polaroid to develop we looked through their fantastic portfolio. If only I were getting married — I'd for sure have them document the day. The group (there are four of them all up) is young and forward thinking and I didn't see a single shot where the entire bridal party is jumping in the air. If you are lucky enough to be having an event that needs to be captured, do yourself a favor and call on them. And then send me some of your favorite shots so I can be excited with you!

Loving: Twinsies

2011-07-11T03:20:00.001-07:00

You probably watched the Reds Super Rugby Final that happened here in Brisbane on Saturday night, yes? Oh. You had to wash your hair? That's ok—here was the highlight. (Yes, they're twins and they're beautiful.) So they probably weren't the best thing about the Reds win, but they are what I googled on Sunday when I was feeling a little boy crazy. And their lovely twin-ness inspired today's post.
Symmetry can be oh so good, but it can also be oh so stuffy. The trick is to have fun with it (isn't that always the trick?). Here are some good examples.

image sources from top left: quilted headboard // orange mirrors // grey bathroom // star mirrors // vaulted ceiling // union jack // black vases // yard // persimmon chairs // ornate twin beds // stripes // grey botanical prints // yellow couch // marble fireplace // dressers

Listen To This: Vampire Weekend

2011-07-08T03:23:00.000-07:00

Oh you know, just a sweet little band playing a lovely song in a courtyard in Paris. Cheers to an excellent weekend my dears! (PS. There's a bit of swearing after the song is over. It's Europe so it's cool.)

vampire weekend // the kids don't stand a chance

Here were this week's tweets. (@hmdtweets)
flowers that'll never die
strawberry + rosemary sangria
buy some art
envelope craft
free new music
vodka + watermelon cooler
newlyweds in canada

Moving In: Jordan + Paul

2011-07-07T04:26:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Day indeed! Jordan Ferney (and of course her lovely husband Paul and two sons) opened up their gorgeous San Francisco apartment to Design*Sponge who was gracious enough to share with us. Jordan is a letterpress printer and event planner so of course the family's space is lively and creative and full of all sorts of interesting bits. Personal favorite: the collection of vintage globes in her sons' room.

Visit Jordan at Oh Happy Day.
(images from OHD and D*S)

Well Designed: Envelopes

2011-07-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

Particularly in this age of bills and not much more in the mail, it's such a treat to get a beautiful envelope. If you're inviting someone to an event it's the guests first opportunity to get excited; if you're sending a letter of gratitude it's a chance to show an extra amount of care and love; and if you're simply writing someone to brighten their day, why not start that brightening immediately? The following images are inspiration, tutorials, art and ideas. Refer to the image sources to see which are tutorials and send some mail to a friend!

image sources from top left: cream fabric // doily tutorial // escort cards // personalized map tutorial // vintage wallpaper lined // confetti // paisley + white calligraphy // tiny book pages // a wedding wish // grid paper tutorial // scalloped map // neighborhood // accordion book tutorial // abigail // quilt // red + vintage stamps // envelope surprise tutorial // fully illustrated // craft paper // patterned window // vellum + twine // curvy calligraphy // yellow fabric // small envelope on paper tutorial

Meet: James Merrell

2011-07-05T02:54:00.000-07:00

It's kind of funny (but mostly a little sad) that so many of the great images I love, I have no idea who the photographer or stylist is. I'm trying to remedy this by paying better attention and researching some of the greats. Like James Merrell. His work has appeared in Martha Stewart, Domino, Elle Decor, Vogue Living... some of our favorites. Looking through his portfolio I was constantly attracted to his photographs that featured strong wallpaper so I decided to show you some of those and I'll leave it to you to visit his site and see all the other ones.

Do you recognize any? Well if not from the above set, definitely you will in his portfolio.

Pack Your Bags: La Maison Pujol

2011-07-04T03:42:00.000-07:00

As if you needed more incentive to pack a steamer trunk and head to the South of France, this amazing old winery turned boutique hotel will definitely get you in the mood for an aperitif. The space was lovingly renovated by architect and designer Philippe Phi with great vintage detailing in every room. The palette, mix of classic furniture pieces and those stunning antique letters skyrocket this b+b to the top of my dream vacation list.

images from the travel files // la maison pujol // eco salon
PS. Happy Independence Day America! Enjoy a root beer float for me!

Listen To This: Ray Charles

2011-07-01T03:56:00.000-07:00

Even if you're not American you can appreciate a little Ray Charles, right? I thought so. Happy 4th of July weekend America!

Ray Charles // America the Beautiful

I'm going to start something new this week and share some of the links I've tweeted throughout the week. (Of course if you'd like to see these early you can follow me @hmdtweets...)
how to make sparkler messages // gorgeous hand-drawn digital patterns // neon sign museum // NYC's narrowest apartment for sale // art to benefit Joplin // a new breed of animated gifs

Have a lovely weekend my dear! xo

At The Design Blog: July Calendar

2011-06-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

Happy July my dear! Head over to the Hello My Dear Design Blog to download your fun desktop calendar.

Pretty Party: Ol' Glory

2011-06-30T02:54:00.000-07:00

Well, it's hard to believe but it's already July! And July means barbecues and fireworks and get-togethers with friends and family. Are you having a party? Need some decorating ideas? I thought you might.

These are all DIY, here are the tutorials and image sources: printable flags // watermelon on a stick in a cupcake wrapper // ice buckets with stick-on stars // firecracker poppers // chocolate covered strawberries // bike decorations // preppy napkin rings
Remember when I posted those delightful vintage Easter pics from the Life Magazine archives? Well I thought I'd visit them again and see what they had for the 4th. Here are a few of my favorites.

Aren't they sweet?

Look At This: Malls Across America

2011-06-29T04:14:00.000-07:00

I think it was my cousin Brian that originally introduced me to the site "How to be a Retronaut" and in particular this great article on shopping malls in the 1990's. This fella made a decision in 1989 to drive across America and take photographs of people in malls. It's always amazing to me when people do these sorts of things knowing that it won't really be great for years and years. I've had so much fun looking back at the fashion and the interiors. I have a feeling most of you were going through middle school or high school during the height of this amazing fashion and will get a kick out of it too.

There are more here. Do any of these images remind you of yourself? I wish I would've been this cool.

At The Design Blog: Free Friday Flicks

2011-06-28T23:29:00.000-07:00

New design project featured on the HMD Design Blog.

Moving In: Erin Featherston

2011-06-28T04:39:00.000-07:00

You know how in some posh movies or tv shows fancy people take the elevator to a private floor and the doors open onto another set of antique iron doors and then into a huge, light-filled, french furnished space? Well this gorgeous interior has all of that AND the cutest little doll of a woman living in it. Erin is a fashion designer living in NYC and she was gracious enough to let Vogue into her apartment and in turn, us.

You can read the article and see more images on the Vogue site.
This won't come as a surprise to you since most of my clothing is from Target, but I'd never seen any of Ms. Fetherston's fashions; however seeing her beautiful apartment made me very curious. So I thought you might be too. Visit her website to see more of her fashions, but here are a few of my favorites from her Resort 2012 collection.

Isn't it gorgeous? She definitely lives her art - it's all very cohesive.

Meet: Joao Lauro Fonte

2011-06-27T03:51:00.000-07:00

I think this Brazilian graphic artist will be just what we need for a good giggle on a (gloomy Queensland) Monday. His work is silly and rather sweet with great retro style - just what I like best.

Visit Joao at his website or over on threadless.

Listen To This: Kimbra

2011-06-24T02:01:00.000-07:00

Dang if this girl doesn't get you in the summer nights mood, well, I feel a little sad for you. Seriously though, she's gooooood. I can't find anything she's actually released, but good news is that she has an album coming out at some point this year. I've listened to this song a dozen times since I discovered it an hour ago, so you can bet I'll keep you updated. In the mean time, you can listen to other songs on YouTube or on her myspace. Good stuff.

Have a great weekend my dear!

Pretty Party: Balloons

2011-06-23T04:29:00.000-07:00

Balloons have made a bit of resurgence in the last few years (for events other than children's birthday parties). In huge bunches they're quite magical and they're quite genius holding up the center of a handful of streamers and acting as a makeshift tent. I've even seen them held by bridesmaids instead of bouquets. How do you feel about them in a wedding? Too whimsical or just whimsical enough?

images from top left: white ceremony // hanging from a tree // s+b // yellow stripe // tall windows // escort cards // bridesmaids // balloons + lanterns + streamers // by the water // gold chairs // apple basket // orange + yellow // aqua // red // black + white embrace // yellow

Loving: Exposed Brick

2011-06-22T05:44:00.000-07:00

Just a little eye candy for you this fine Wednesday. I hope you enjoy and are inspired - brick wall or no. Get outside and enjoy the day!

images from top left: pink chair // card catalog // yellow o // bedroom // stacks of books // pink bed // wonder bread // bunting // plants // antlers // doorway // beams // bricked arch // striped rug // kitchen sink

Moving In: Keri Russell's Brooklyn Brownstone

2011-06-21T03:09:00.000-07:00

Haven't we all had a girl-crush on the fabulous Keri Russell since Felicity? Even after she cut her hair (such a scandal!). She's popped up here and there and every time I'm reminded how much I love her. And seeing her beautiful Brooklyn brownstone featured in Elle Decor made me want to move in with her (and her cutie pie husband and son). It's all light and wood and interesting accents. The space feels easy and natural, just like Ms. Russell herself.

This is actually every room featured in the article, which I don't normally like to do but couldn't bring myself to cut anything. Pop over to Elle Decor anyway to read the article and to see all of the other amazing spaces they've featured.
Now for some pieces to help recreate this space in your space.

sources from top left: wing chair // pendant // ottoman // chest // blanket // "home is" art // bertoia wire side chair // vase // mirror

Look At This: The Ballerina Project

2011-06-20T02:47:00.000-07:00

I wanted to be a ballerina when I was a little girl. And then again when I was thirteen. And then again when I was 20. And now. They are so graceful and feminine and strong. Oh and they get to wear those amazing tutus... I think with Black Swan came a bit of a rebirth of the ballerina fascination for me, and probably for a lot of people. This brings me to today's look-see: the Ballerina Project. The website for this doesn't give a lot of information, simply that it "grew from the idea of New York City as a magnet for creativity; each photograph is a collaborative work of dance, fashion design and photography played out against the city's landscape." Lucky for this guy (I think he's a man named Dane) he had a whole crop of gorgeous ballerinas to photograph in one of the most photographable cities in the world. And lucky for us he's sharing (and you can buy these lovely images if you're so inclined).

I was just swapping "ballet as a child" stories with a friend of mine today—I'd love to hear yours! P.S. Mine goes a little something like this: I was four, I managed to put my hands over my head during the recital, I then proceeded to sit down on the stage and refuse to get up. And that was the end of my ballet career. We did get a photograph of me in my pink tutu though, so it was probably all worth it. My mother (who bought the tutu and paid for the "lessons") may disagree!
(images from the project site and thanks to the diversion project for the introduction)

Listen To This: Fionn Regan

2011-06-17T02:45:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing, you'll probably have to listen to this a couple of times. The first time around you'll be distracted by the scenery and the way Fionn's voice sounds in all of the different locations. But promise me you won't stop there, because this is a gorgeous song—lyrically and instrumentally and well worth a proper listen.

fionn regan // be good or be gone
Have an excellent weekend. Oh, and go hug your dads. xo

Loving: Faux Bois

2011-06-16T15:58:00.000-07:00

Faux bois, really simply put, is artistic wood imitation. Ta da! We learn so much together don't we? Seriously though, this technique has been quite popular off and on for a great many years and has recently seen a resurgence. This time around we see it as the traditional walls and rugs and vases but we also see it on blankets and dresses. How do you feel about it? Would you wear a faux bois dress? Maybe the ring is more your speed. Either way, it's all really fun don't you think?

images from top left: vase // ceiling // kitchen floor // dress // ring // embroidery // nesting tables // pendant // floor // throw // bathroom wall

Oh! Did you know Hello My Dear is now on Twitter (maybe you've heard of it? Sorry it took me so long...) You can find me @hmdtweets. And if you follow me you'll get links to all the fun stuff that doesn't make it to the blog. Like some faux bois tutorials and cool stuff like that. Let's be honest with each other... you'll also get random rambling and learn about what I'm reading/watching/listening to, but that could be fun too! Anyway, hope to see you there!

Meet: Joel Penkman

2011-06-15T03:15:00.000-07:00

Our friend Joel is providing us with a little sweet eye candy this Wednesday. He paints with "egg tempera" which is a very old technique using paint pigments and egg yolks (I wikipedia-ed it obviously). From what I can gather it's quite difficult as the consistency has to be adjusted constantly. Don't you think it's interesting that he uses egg-based paints to create these beautiful desserts? Well I do, but I'm easily amused as you know.

Who's ready for morning tea?
images from Joel's site via happiness, etc

Moving In: Artemis + Nao's Sheds

2011-06-14T03:07:00.000-07:00

Remember this couple? I did a little feature on their wedding awhile back (go look at it if you don't remember—it was stunning). Artemis and her husband Nao spend their days creating gorgeous jewelry and collecting vintage wares to sell in their online shop. This said, they're obviously a very creative couple with the need for workspaces. Here's where the sheds become a part of the story. It started with Artemis: her family decided to build her this adorable shed and she's spent time painting and decorating and making it her own little sewing and weaving space. Here's how I imagine this went: Artemis to Nao "Isn't it the best? I can keep all of my supplies and ideas and projects locked in here and I can visit and create any time I want!" Nao: "I neeeeeeeed that too!". At least that's how it would go with me. If I was living with someone and they had an awesome shed it would take me all of ten seconds to get in my car and head to the Home Depot to buy my own 4' x 6' shed. And then two minutes of hammer-wielding before I got my dad to come over and help put it together. But back to the people who've already done this....
You're going to really be inspired by this I think. These spaces may be small but with the big windows and bright interiors I don't think you'd feel too claustrophobic - do you? I'd definitely give it a go. If it didn't work out think of the happy chickens you could house!

above is Artemis' shed // below is Nao's (he likes to repair found leather bags and then sells them in the shop)

More shed pics here. Visit them at the blog, the jewelry shop and the vintage resell site.

Pretty Party: Reception Tents

2011-06-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

Don't we just love a pretty reception tent? I've been to so many lovely weddings but have yet to celebrate under yards of translucent fabric. It'll happen one day, I'm certain of it. In the meantime, let's ooh la la over these gorgeous parties.

images from top left: paper balloons // paper curtains // bunting // paper flowers // streamers // twinkle lights // path // mexican bunting // floral chandelier // exposed

Listen To This: Bryan John Appleby

2011-06-10T00:45:00.000-07:00

Geez louise. This guy makes my heart break into a hundred tiny, shiny pieces. What's better than a couple of flannel-clad cuties harmonizing in a rowboat? Well, not much but I hope your weekend is filled with something as magical. xo

Cliffs Along The Sea from Christian Sorensen Hansen on Vimeo.

bryan john appleby // cliffs along the sea

Meet: Luci Everett

2011-06-09T01:25:00.000-07:00

Oh Luci Everett, you have the handmade graphic design feel down to an art. Literally I suppose. She's a Melbourne artist who uses her watercolors and handwriting and drawings in gorgeous collage designs for musicians, events and personal projects. Her work is quite delicate and whimsical, which I of course love.

My goodness it's lovely. Visit her website to see more of her work.

Moving In: William + Susan Brinson

2011-06-08T02:21:00.000-07:00

These cute kids met when they were sixteen and proceeded to attend college together and now live in a gorgeous New York City loft. He's a still-life and food photographer (definitely worth a peek at his portfolio) and she is an art director and invitation designer (check out her lovely work too). So of course their apartment is fabulous. Such a great mixture of modern and vintage, light and dark, masculine and feminine. The space is well put-together but not at all overdone.

So many great pieces don't you think? images from the design*sponge feature
Want to make it your own? Let's go shopping:

multi-strand lights // cushions // ladder shelf // curtains // rolling cart // leather sofa // mirrors // dinnerware // supermarket numbers // wire egg basket

Look At This: The Burning House

2011-06-07T01:53:00.000-07:00

The age old question: if your house was on fire, what would you grab? Foster Huntington invites people to collect and photograph the items they'd take and then he posts them. He writes "think of it as a full interview condensed into one question" and it really is. You learn so much about these people by looking at their treasures. Three common items: children, pets and (my personal favorite) the macbook. Feel like having yours posted? You're welcome to submit by visiting The Burning House site. I'd love to see it!

The project just started in May so be sure to keep up with it - there are sure to be some great collections.

Pack Your Bags — The Tides

2011-06-06T04:48:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with the Hollywood Regency style of decorating, especially when it manifests itself in the form of a gorgeous, art deco, South Beach hotel. The Tides in South Beach (Miami) saw a beautiful redesign in 2007 by the talented designer, Kelly Wearstler. She did a fabulous job: the color palette of warm golds and chocolate with pops of coral mix so well with natural textures such as tortoise, leather and honey woods. This is exactly the sort of place I picture when I think of luxury in Miami. Let's get our hat boxes out and board a jet shall we?

Love it. (thanks Rifle for introducing me to this gorgeous hotel!)
images from: The Tides // Kelly Wearstler // Carlos Melia

LIsten To This: Coeur De Pirate

2011-06-03T03:18:00.000-07:00

My brother and sister-in-law and I went out to dinner earlier this week and on the walk to the restaurant we saw an enchanting site: there is a gorgeous cupcakery that offers French lessons in the evenings. There were a half dozen people sitting in a circular booth with cappuccino and half-eaten desserts in front of them and a charming old-timey blackboard with conjugated French verbs written on it. Man. Adorable. Weren't we supposed to be French this year anyway? Well, at the very least we should listen to Coeur de Pirate (aka Beatrice Martin) sing her sweet little French song.

coeur de pirate // comme des enfants
Now if only we'd known about the French lessons we'd know what the heck she was talking about. There's always next year. Have a good weekend my dear!

Loving: Ikat

2011-06-02T02:33:00.000-07:00

We're pretty close by now aren't we? We've spent a lot of time together and I feel like we have a mutual admiration and respect for each other. And this is why I'm not afraid to confess to you that even after reading about "ikat" in quite a few different blogs, I still don't fully understand what it is. It's a technique that (apparently) involves a "three step process where the fiber is tie-dyed, woven into long, narrow strips, and then carefully patched together to create width." I'll take your word for it Ciao Interiors (they wrote the previous statement). Even though I don't realllllly know what it is, I'm pretty sure I can recognize it. And I can definitely recognize that it's gorgeous and I need more of it in my life.

images from top left: green vase // blue wall // blanket // coral pillow // brown couch // purple chairs // desk chair // wall hanging // poppies // lime green couch // burnt orange // silver stool

Meet: Abigail Brown

2011-06-01T03:42:00.000-07:00

Abigail Brown is a "creature textile designer" and she is absolutely amazing. Her birds are rather extraordinary creations made from repurposed fabrics and assembled into whimsical and surprisingly expressive pieces of art. She makes all of them by hand and (yay!) they are for sale. Visit her site!

Aren't they sweet? I think I neeeed that flamingo.
(And thanks to Zoe for introducing me to the new UK magazine Mollie Makes which introduced me to Ms. Brown.)

Loving: Menswear Campaigns

2011-05-31T04:19:00.001-07:00

This is probably one of those instances where I think that this is a "new" thing but it's really just new to me. I realize that the whole idea of a lookbook is probably as old as fashion itself, but lookbooks available to the public (via the internet mostly) seems to be something that's fairly recent. That said, I generally peruse the women's collections (for obvious reasons) but these men's books are not only full of great clothing but are beautifully shot, styled and modeled. The fashion house is named at the beginning of each of the features, but they are: CXXVI (of New York), 10Deep (also of New York) and Cavalier (which doesn't exactly exist but Taylor Pemberton seems to be the designer and he's in Savannah, GA).

Well done boys.

At The Design Blog: June Calendar

2011-05-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

I've made you a present! Go get it over at the Design Blog. xo

Happy June my dear!

Pretty Party: BBQ Engagement

2011-05-30T15:07:00.000-07:00

In honor of Memorial Day and the unofficial kick-off to American summer I thought we'd all like to look at this gorgeous backyard Engagement party. Mark and Amy (of eat drink chic) invited their nearest and dearest to celebrate their engagement and then surprised everyone when they decided to have a civil ceremony right then and there. This is such a great idea for those couples who don't want to spend months and months planning a huge event. And of course everyone is so excited and happy so the party is that much more delightful.

I am particularly in love with this party because it looks like I can do it. It doesn't have a hundred and one crazy pieces to put together but it is still incredibly thoughtful and celebratory.
(images from eat drink chic)
Happy Memorial Day all of you Americans! I hope you're spending it outside with friends.
xo

Listen To This: Beirut

2011-05-27T02:51:00.000-07:00

Sigh. This just feels like perfect timing. Go do something fun this weekend - and videotape it for your grandkids. xo

beirut // postcards from italy

Moving In: Cathy + Robin

2011-05-26T04:07:00.000-07:00

Cathy and Robin live in a sweet little house which appears to be nestled in some lovely trees and is decorated with just the right amount of interesting bits and bobs. I love that it's not cluttered, but still feels homey and comfortable. I think I'd look quite nice perched in front of that fireplace, don't you?

This couple also has an amazing ceramics website that you should definitely check out.
images from: design*sponge and the d*s flickr page

Meet: Debi Treloar

2011-05-25T03:38:00.001-07:00

Our new friend Debi has shot some amazing things: gorgeous, boho interiors; ripe and bright fruit (in teacups of course); perfectly styled tables... Originally from Zimbabwe, she has lived and worked in London for the past fifteen years working with monthly publications, chefs, interior designers and stylists. Check out her site for other images (and to see a list of projects she's been a part of).

You can really see that her exotic African background mixes beautifully with her subtle, vintage, British style. What a great combination!
(all images are from her portfolio)

If We Were Famous: We'd Go To Cannes

2011-05-24T05:21:00.000-07:00

So, another year of Cannes Film Festival-ing draws to an end, and the fashion images emerging have really intrigued me this year. I was especially drawn to all the gorgeous neutrals the leading ladies seemed to embrace. There was a plethora of white, black and champagne. Oh, you'd like to see some of my favorites? I thought you might...

Thanks Life Magazine for your amazing archives.
Oh, speaking of which, the rabbit trail that is the Life site led me to these amazing vintage Cannes images. You're going to really enjoy this.

So much glamour!
images from the Life Magazine Archives (Cannes 2011 fashion, classic Cannes and the stars at Cannes galleries)

Loving: Golden Interiors

2011-05-23T03:17:00.000-07:00

It's funny how your tastes change isn't it? Not too long ago I would've poo-pooed me if I suggested that gold in an interior was anything other than gaudy and old-fashioned (and not in a good way). But now... my eyes are opened to the gorgeousness of a bit of bling. The best part about adding a bit of gold to your home? Swing by the hardware store for a can of spray paint then to goodwill for a cheap mirror or metal side table and you've got yourself a bit of magic.

images from top left: brocade chest of drawers // table setting // hallway mirror // mirror installations // gold poufs // metal chair // headboard // gold couch // coffee table // wallpaper // fireplace // office // tree // drapes // zebra rug // pendants

Listen To This: Dawn Landes

2011-05-20T04:51:00.000-07:00

This is such a sweet video and song. It really gets me in a summer mood (which is good for you Americans but rather frustrating for me as I head into Winter). No matter what season, it gives you that warm fuzzy feeling and that's a great way to start a weekend. So, enjoy!

dawn landes // straight lines

Pack Your Bags — The Lark House

2011-05-19T04:40:00.000-07:00

Oh. My. Gosh. You and I are learning about this amazing getaway together... I had no idea that the gorgeous store (and retail supplier) Lark offers a retreat house in Daylesford, Australia. I first became familiar with Lark through the boutique I work at and I've adored everything I've seen. So obviously I'm head-over-heels in love with this sweet 1860's home decorated and maintained by Lark. The house is available for up to 8 people (four beds, two baths) and looks to be quite spacious. If you can get out there, do! That goes for me too...

Here's the problem I see with this particular holiday rental: they'd have to evict me because I'm certainly not going willingly...
images from: the design files and the lark site