Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture

LEAVING LONDON

2012-01-24T13:26:00.000-08:00

I am just coming to the end of my trip to my home country, London. The main purpose of my trip was to see my father and regroup with my London store.

In February it will already be 2 years old. It's a teeny little hole in the wall, just off of Portobello Road, but thanks to a lovely staff (Paulina, Pascale and Amel), it's becoming a solid little powerhouse.

While this store has the same "village" of support that the U.S. stores have, This staff is literally on an Island but they do a wonderful job in making the ocean apart seem like a puddle. Our values and quality at Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture is a labour of love for those behind the scenes and our big little presence in London translate all that we stand for.

When I travel I always keep my eyes open for literal inspiration and abstract. Resting my head at The Covent Garden Hotel is my indulgence. I have always loved the opulence of their needlepoint curtain and valance, and I translated this story at The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B&B with some faded vintage fabric in the Rangers Lounge.

With my store being on the doorstep of Portobello Road, I am able to pop in and out..... not so much time for fleamarkets, so my favorite treasures I am able to fit in my bag.

Much different to the magnificent masterpiece I found in a flea market last time.

(Check out the header in the photo of our fabric archway above)

I had a couple of rainy day walks through the streets of London. Selfridges is one of my favorite large stores. They do a lovely job to be a huge store with a boutique mentality.

They had an installation of Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy......
of course I loved the scrap book, art studio elements. A different world to my florals and fluffy world, but the exploration and depth of substance makes it just as intriguing to me.....

I took a train ride to Petersham Nurseries. A little bit of a shlep, but again, a passionate project with careful attention to detail. A very famous place to eat, buy plants and flowers, and home accessories too.

You may see me borrow some of these ideas down the road.

A highlight of my trip was to visit Pearl Lowes Home (for those of you who follow my Facebook, twitter or now Pinterest, you will have seen some of these photos, as I was too excited to share.)

She lives with her adorable hubby and children and dog, deep in the heart of country side. (you may have seen her home in my latest Rachel Ashwell Inspiration Book)

It's lovely to see all the elements of cozy cottage living, that I love, in an authentic settings. Muddy boots, runny noses, baking of cakes and lots of mushy cushions......

I hope soon to be carrying these in my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores, in the UK and U.S., in this lovely raspberry shade, and other yummy colours too. Pearl loves my Notting Hill shop and happily hung this rustic star in her cottage.

While I didn't sleep over, one day I hope to. Just love her guest area, love of course the palette, the personal touch while also minimal......

So all in all, I had a lovely whirl wind trip. Dad is ok for the moment. I am off the NY to see Jake and my New York store, and then home to get ready for my seminar at The Prairie.

A few planes in between, so once again the angel wings will come out, and then for back up, my butterflies too.

Enjoying Our Dreams

2012-01-05T12:35:00.000-08:00

The last few years has been the stage of my life of much movement. It comes with the territory for us all as parents, as career people, as seekers in life.

Many beginnings, adjustments, endings, letting go and of course growth. Somehow the daily rhythm of life keeps us on track, but with each New Year we are given a moment to double check ourselves, our goals and our values.

So much in life excites me, and I so enjoy the process of creating, that I often find myself not taking quite the time I should, to enjoy what I have already accomplished.

2012 is the year for me to stop and smell my own roses, enjoy my relationships and if I feel the inkling to build, I will build on foundations already laid.

For those that have followed the my journey, my stores hit a wonky bump in the road in 2009. Thanks to passion, vision, hard work and a village, four Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ stores are proudly open for biz.

For me, 22 years later than when I opened my first store, I still love nothing more, than popping by, seeing my associates and custys, fluff some pillows or move a chair. These stores are still my creative playgrounds, where not one spec of quality or design is ever compromised. its where we tell our whole story, where the magic starts.

I plan to spend a few months at the Prairie myself this year. The B and B is humming along. I will be hosting my first ever seminar on Inspiration and Business from Feb 24th thru Feb 26th.......golly I will be talking for 48hrs!!!!!!!!!

Of course the flea market is work, finding treasures for the stores and online, but it's also my fuel for inspiration. I will be shopping the fleas till my very end.

Laurence Amelie and Ubaldo, my lovely French artist friends are planning to come stay with me and do another glorious collection of paintings.

Meanwhile my design team and I will continue to collaborate, and design for the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ stores.

And we will continue creating loveliness for our program with Target under the Simply Shabby Chic label and other license partnerships.

Even though our village has changed pathways over the years, we know our route so well now, that our days are productive and just lovely.

I plan to enjoy my own home this year.

I have traveled much these past few years, but it is time for me to settle for a while.

This is my kind of dream home. I had a vision and now I have to make some memories......

I plan to walk up and down that path loads this year.

I hope to slow down time , maybe freeze it if I can.....

I saw this wonderful installation at Marburger Farms Flea market at Magnolia Pearl. Apart from being beautiful, I loved the idea of everything beautifully standing still!!!!!!

So I am hoping for myself, and those who are on a similar track of life, this year, to pop on our angel wings and fly to our dreams, but to take the time to enjoy the dreams we already have.

PS:

AND

Set to launch at Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ Spring 2012!
I love her but you can "like" her on her facebook page.

GIRLS BEST FRIEND.........

2011-12-19T08:23:00.000-08:00

Every year I host a holiday dinner at my home for my staff and village..... through thick and thin we have continued this tradition for many years now.

During the course of the year, days fly by so very quickly. Welcoming people into our homes is a genuine expression of appreciation and warmth. I truly enjoy the opportunity to spend time with my team who day after day, throughout the year are dedicated to their jobs, and always give more than is required. I so appreciate the work ethics and passions of "the village".

While the holidays are customarily red and green, somehow I manage to navigate my palette and still be part of the tradition. I have been collecting pink Santa's for years. Some are a little worse for wear, but non the less I love them.

This week I took myself to the downtown Los Angeles Flower Market. I love love to go.

Buying flowers by the bulk fills my stomach with butterflies. Knowing I have all the stages of beauty ahead of me. From the modest bud, to the flamboyant blossoms, and then the wilting rose. Hmmmmmm

I so enjoyed making little floral moments for the party.

Spray painting branches and leaves are such a lovely way to bring bling to a celebration..... and then adding a moodier palette by way of violet anemones creates the tapestry of my aesthetics.

As I am playing with my best friends (flowers) for my party display, I ponder on all the different ways flowers can be applied and enjoyed... WHO NEEDS DIAMONDS?

And to end the evening I bought a little rose plant, for all to take home.....and hopefully blossom and grow in the way we will as a village.

I so appreciated having the opportunity to have such a team in my life, truly, because it does take a village.

Happy holidays to you all.....may you all have a very pink and flowery season. And thank you to all who find the time to pop by and read my rambling thoughts.

Love, Rachel

A Beautiful Artist

2011-12-01T12:28:00.000-08:00

April 2009 was a really wonky time for me.

On a particularly dark day, Lisa Dirkes sent me a copy of a lovely book she had illustrated. She wrote an inscription for me that were the exact words I needed to read, at that time.

Anyone who has followed my blog over the years will be familiar with the works of art of Lisa Dirkes. Many times I have shown her work, sometimes for the purpose of its
beauty, and sometimes because her message has a profound and relevant message.

Just last week, Lisa so very sadly and way too young passed away. I am wanting to share a few of my favorite pieces.

Lisa's path crossed my world when she initially worked at my Newport Beach CA Store. Life was not always kind to her, but she had a most wonderful spirit.

She was also a very important player during the opening of The Prairie By Rachel Ashwell. She kept our village fed while all hands were on deck to open.

HOME

2011-11-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

Such a teeny little four letter word that has such significance.

My life choices have had me moving Home many times, and the past few years I have spent little time in my HOME. It is just in the past few weeks, that some of my long term commitments have been completed so HOME is where I am.

I would be lying to say that even though I have a beautiful nest, when I stop it takes a little time for me to reconnect with being still. My garden is the place I can do that the most. Early in the morning, to observe what cycles of life have lived and died in my absence.

Home for me has always been full of creativity. During the times when my children were young and continuing to this day, creative projects are always midstream somewhere.

It is known that my home is the house to come and do projects.

You have seen many posts about Laurence and Ubaldo's pilgrimages to my Barn a couple of times a year. Having beautiful paintings at the end of their trip is a wonderful manifestation of the real treat, to be part of their process of creating.

Funny that I ended up making sunny L.A. my home, as my inner wiring is a better fit for a location with seasons. Natures rhythm is a good pace for me. But I have this glorious fireplace that takes me off into the fantasy of an old welsh cottage, without having to go anywhere.

My bedroom sanctuary is another magical moment.

last week I hosted a party for www.cocodot.com In my time of recharge there are few people I would surrender my space to, my dear friend
Amy Neunsinger is one I would and did. And she threw a spectacular party. Where I could just float, and enjoy the beauty she created, with Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture beauties.

And then when its time for me to go on the road again......I will go to the home that has a piece of my heart.

I do hope wherever and whatever home is to you all, it is a place of peace. As I have learnt that I can travel the world many times, and its the inner peace that makes HOME IN OUR OWN HEARTS.

Thank You Marie And Sofia....

2011-10-18T07:07:00.000-07:00

I keep it no secret that Sofia Coppola's movie, Marie Antoinette has been an endless source of inspiration for me. I love her luscious attention to detail, the sumptuous palette with the occasional quirk.

Even amongst the Big Picture of a movie or a little vignette, it is those little details that elevate art from mediocrity to magic.

Combining flea market treasures, a touch of luxury and bargains from the 99 cents store inspired by Marie, is so very shabby and chic.

The funnest part of being inspired is absorbing a vision and translating it into our own world. And then the search for the treasures.

Even for the most ordinary celebration over the top details can be layered in. Or fanciful in the most simple setting..........

In my new book, Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Inspirations and Beautiful Spaces, I have included a diverse array of homes and aesthetics. All sharing the same common thread qualities. Sharon Osbourne's dining room is a perfect example of Pure Beauty.

For such a little accent, hats bring such attitude. I have been collecting floral vintage hats for years. Never quite as lavish as Marie, but maybe I will work my way up.

While I am known for my rumpled feather and down white slipcovered sofas, I also love to compliment with comfy elegance.

I know I am not alone with being continually inspired by the vision Sofia Coppola gave us all with her translation.

The covers of my last two books are quite different but for sure have elements of the tattered elegance, which I couldn't have visualized, without Marie or Sofia.....forever thankful to them both.

So in the end, the wonderful thing about being inspired is how we see different qualities, and then make them our own, whether by way of an accent or a visual symphony.

You can see more inspirations of Marie Antoinette online at www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

3 Years Gone By

2011-10-04T16:13:00.000-07:00

My children continue to find their passions and understand the true values of life and love.

Four Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores (N.Y., LONDON, L.A., TEXAS) stand proud after some big bumps in my shabby world.

Two books have been published, The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell (a precious B and B and base for creative projects), has opened.

Simply Shabby Chic at Target continues to be a partnership that I am so proud to be part of.

And other projects have been launched in the world of Shabby Chic. Quilting Fabrics and products in Michaels under Treasures by Shabby Chic, a line of furniture under the Shabby Chic Brand is sold across the country at furniture stores (different to Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ stores) and back in my home country at House of Fraser Stores there is a complete world of Shabby Chic products.

"Are you getting enough rest and taking care of your self," is what mum would be saying. However, October 13th is 3 years since she passed away.

Through out all my busy busy days of the past 3 years, not one day has gone by that I don't think about mum. Some days with a giggles, some days with a tear, some days with such gratitude of the depth of substance of who she was, and some days just wishing I could be greedy and that she could have been here for these past three years.

The wonderful thing about having my mum is that her inspirations live on through many facets of my life.

The core of how I live my life. Accepting imperfection takes away intimidation. The ice is already broken. With the influence of technology today it seems speed, the pretense of perfection and deletion of what was, makes for the absence of an authentic life, in some instances negating history and reality. Mum wouldn't have done well with that notion of deletion and retouching.

On a practical level, her little tiny booth in Camden Passage in London was my entry into the world of retail.

Sometimes she would want to go to the loo and ask me to "hold the fort". I never made a sale for her, but I could hold a good conversation even as a pre-teen and keep her customers engaged till she would return. To this day, I'm not much of a sales girl.

To this day I can only sew by hand, but the hum of a sewing machine is a nostalgic comforting noise to me, as I would often hear this as i was going off to sleep as a child.

The art of creating has flowed from mum to me and through both of my children, through art, music, gardening and seeking of the soul.

In comparison to mum, I have had a very public life. One she wouldn't have wanted for herself. Sometimes I question if her daily practice of her art, with no agenda other than that of practice, and her choice to be anonymous is what allowed her to be really quite brilliant.

Mums piano playing was always a big part of "nana visits"

In their younger years I continued the tradition of playing the piano as my children would go to sleep, knowing the loveliness they would feel as I did when my mum played for me.

Mostly, what my mum passed on to me, was how to love a child. Often expressed in her art. Perhaps from a void in her own childhood. The relationship of the love of mother and child was of the greatest value of all to her.

This is "forever to keep " for me. Both in the material sense and spiritual.

So for all mums inspirations that has given me such a rich life, and that is now passing on to my children, it is her gift of how to love a child, that is the greatest gift of all. I do miss her often but her leaving was in the normal flow of life, and
she more than anyone would accept that path.....she was a true gift to me.

P.S. As only Mum would do. My "valuable bits" long gone now, except for the precious thought and envelope.

For information of book signing events, please click on home page of www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Pastel And Purple Favourites

2011-09-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

The following photos are some of my all time favorites. You may have seen them on prior blogs or on my recent tweets or facebook posts. Some are whimsical, some inspirational. To me some are metaphoric and some just plain pretty.

While just beautiful, this also represents to me that the unexpected in life can be the best wows of life. It reminds me to think outside the box in all I do.

Sometimes I find my best creativity just flows naturally. Without too much thought. Just letting pretty things find pretty things, creating beauty.

My fleamarket travels gives me a wonderful resource to searching and finding treasures.
I particularly love finding theatrical props. For their scale, handmadeness and window to fantasy......

Ballet shoes are timeless beauties. I have always loved their qualities and patina. Silk and pink. I had many hours of joy sewing in the ribbons for my daughters shoes, all the while giving me inspiration for details that I have emulated in my own design work. So often I have matched the color of ballet shoes in my fabrics.

A pink fantasy. A perfect vehicle to imagine the "if's and maybes" of life.

Sometimes I come across a place or a thing, that simply leaves me in awe. Wondering "how and what" and just humbled by the found beauty.

Every time I look at this amazing house in London, I see something different. Sometimes I see a faded elegance of days gone by. Imagining what life was lived during its stages of decay. Sometime I simply see the multi layers of pink and red. I have also sat on the pavement outside this house, and just stared and stared.

This purple carpet is the perfect metaphor that life is about the journey. In this case a wisteria journey.

And then sometimes life is about the destination. Where the journey is less significant.

Please forgive me if these photos are not new to you. But I wanted to see all my faves in one place.

Over the next few weeks I will be traveling for my book tour so will bring some new adventures and new wows to share.

Please click here to see my book tour schedule.

Inspiration And Beauty

2011-09-25T19:34:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday night, September 27th from 6pm to 9pm we are having a celebration of our new Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ Store at The Prairie By Rachel Ashwell B&B in Round Top Texas. Would love to see as many of you who are in the neighbourhood.

I always dreamed of having a little hotel someday, but somehow having a little shop on the property makes this all so real.

My mantra of beauty, comfort and function continues with these Prairie inspired accessories. And our hottest cake at the moment is our subtle little faded blue horse shoe Prairie T shirt

My 7th book is also part of our celebration for which I will be signing them right away before I begin my book tour across this great country travelling to NY, LA, SF and over to London.
(Please see events posted on Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture website)

Over the past 20 years my books have been my vehicle to present my creativity and aesthetics. I have photographed numerous light and airy rooms of a pastel palette. Lots of pink and white creating romance and my feminine flair.

In my latest book I have included some homes that are outside my expected aesthetic, but still they have a common thread of my values of my design and lifestyle. And in doing so, their aesthetic and values resonate with me too. So on first glance, if my palette seems to have shifted, I hope you too can be inspired to see the beauty with a fresh set of eyes, into the soul of these homes.

Home And Play On The Range

2011-09-18T12:05:00.000-07:00

Busy busy time these past few weeks but getting good at finding moments to refuel. There is an element of The Prairie where time stands still. And somehow in that stillness it is easy to be productive.

I find when I visit places that have history, quietly tucked away, that I feel safe. I think its knowing life has trodden paths before me.

500,000 miles on the clock. maybe out of warranty but what stories it could tell.

One of these days it will get repaired, but until then its a good leaner.

Without even trying I seem to be starting my own little flea market........after years of being the seeker, treasures are now coming to me. How novel.

So special that I have a place in the world where I can work, play, and be quiet with friends, family and just people passing through.

And all the little details made it here too.

Even with such a balanced life sometimes bad dreams slip in.....and then .........

On top of all else we pulled of a photo shoot so we can share some photos of all that goes on......including a wedding!!!!!

And then finally I found a home for my precious arch I lugged back from London.

Please click on my book on the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ website for events and book signings that I will be attending.

Opening of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Store™ and book signing at The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B & B.

Forever Changing Treasures

2011-09-06T11:19:00.001-07:00

Seems to me that the wonderful thing about treasures are their values and beauty are forever changing.

I gave myself the treat to wander through my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ store in New York, and just enjoy. Vintage pieces I had bought in the past. Some I clearly remembered. Some revealed details that had past me by previously.

While the initial search for treasures for my stores and my home is a sacred adventure, I never bore of the new qualities that are forever evolving. I don't segregate this thought to just material treasures, but also people treasures and lesson treasures. As we spend more time discovering the many layers, there is always a new beauty to experience, seemingly never ending.

A beautiful Florentine table and purple porcelain flowers, visual symphony to my eyes.

The craft of balance and acceptance is a quality I am always striving for. Sometimes it is my aesthetic ability that teaches me how the unexpected opposites, balance each other, and bring out the best.

There are moments in our lives where accents of decadence finds a home. I like to welcome these in heirloom qualities, so they can be shared for many generations to come. Quality and classic needs to be part of a decadent recipe in my book.

When searching for treasures, often it is the patina that finds my attention. The most magnificent piece is without magic for me if the patina isn't alive with texture.

These beauties were on a wallpaper trunk and porcelain umbrella stand in my store. Both are so beautiful and rare to the eye. Sometimes I question how I part with such treasures. For me discovering and acknowledging value and beauty, is often enough. Letting unique qualities pass thru my hands onto others is often enough for however long they last in my world.

And that is why it is always such a treat for me to go to a store, to experience one more time, the treasure I found, and perhaps discover another layer I didn't see before.

See these and other treasures at any of our Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores.

Behind The Scenes

2011-09-02T07:31:00.000-07:00

Many have asked how my roses got well.

I removed a lot of mossy dirt around their base. Too much water it seemed. It was hard to access one rose bush with particularly thorny bushes. Its as though it wanted to be left alone.

But like a loony person, I spoke daily to each and every bush and bloom, and little by little I removed all the ripped and tattered petals. And now truly every blossom is in full healthy bloom.

The moral as I see it is we all need the human touch and talk, even if we put up our thorny barriers.......

I built a barn in my backyard. Over the years it has served many purposes. At the moment it is a photo studio. Now that rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com is open for online business we are in need of some simple product shots.

The village grouped together, and we shot all our new fall collections.

The shot doesn't need much propping because the light in the barn is just magical.

Am learning that much as though I like to shoot with lots of mood and ambiance, when shopping online, clarity is the most important.

This has become a staple for our collection, however from time to time we change out the fabrics. This is our fall introduction. Will be be in the stores in September.

While we are so excited about having our online store open, popping by is still a magical moment, even for me after all these years.

We pride ourselves that every thing in our stores is just the creme de la creme of home furnishings. Many hands have to touch what we design.....therefore we are limited with how quickly we can produce things. We cannot make our petticoat tablecloth and bedding collection quick enough, so its a test of patience for all, for us who produce them, and for our customers who order them. In the late fall we will have more. But as we know, good things are worth the wait.

This is just a peek over the next few weeks, more and more yummy products will show up, all shot in my barn out back.

Timeless Art & Craft

2011-08-29T11:15:00.000-07:00

Over the years there have been selections of quilts at Simply Shabby Chic at Target and Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™. However truth be told I have never paid much attention to the culture, history, passion and world of quilting.

As always, whenever I am involved in any project my inspiration book is where I gather my thoughts....

This collection of of quilting fabrics are designed from archives of Shabby Chic fabrics from years gone by.... lovely pink, blue and green florals, stripes and solids...

While the Shabby Chic palette has had a signature of pastels for 20 years and more, choosing the exact colors is a crucial part of the design process. Paint, yarn or nature contributes to the recipe of the perfect palette.

Sometime back in the spring was when I was first introduced to the quilting community. I loved the timelessness of the craft. Quilting circles, creativity and conversation. Such a rare hands on socialization in today's society. The quilting world to me stands for old time values, appreciation of detail, patience and pride. I have always been a knitter, which has similar qualities, but I am so happy to have been introduced and welcomed into this new community.

There are several wonderful collections under the Treasures by Shabby Chic, available at different quilting stores across the country, and actually the world. (view the stores at ShabbyChic.com)

Cool summer nights or cozy winter days, a quilt applies. And knowing the handy work and care that is stitched into every quilt is pure love.

I love this collection so much. One day soon my laundry room at my B and B, The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell will have some new additions of these lovely fabrics, stitched into yummy quilts.

Heart, Souls And Pure Genius

2011-08-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

On September 27th I will have my first book signing for my new book, at the opening of our Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ store at The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B&B in Round Top, Texas.

Then in October I will do a little tour around the country and will keep you posted where I will be.

I am really quite excited to share my stories of how this book came to be. Every house has an important connection to me by way of being extra-ordinarily inspired and or dear dear friends of mine.......

Three true artisans are featured. All young and lovely and quite brilliant. While being fresh in their approach to product and design, their values and lifestyles are frozen in time from the last century.

Their home gives new meaning to the word "living". Story telling is a bi-product of their authentic, romantic and soulful aesthetic.

I so enjoyed being invited into this world of timelessness. I photographed these artisans in the depth of the winter in London. Hot soups, hot chocolate and little burning fires played into the timeless days. Story telling, whimsy and pure creativity got us through the inevitable logistical challenges.

Emma is a scrap goddess. Everything that passes through her hands is held close to her heart and adorned with some sacred embellishments.

And then there was Huw. The Shabby Man. You will meet him in my new book.

Where is his clone?

Huw has dusty chandeliers with pink drops, sheets will teeny rose buds and many moments of prettiness, but in his world, its just beauty with no gender.

The patina in huw's little London house is mellow and warm. Modest, simple and so cozy and appreciated.

Huws decorating is very understated, nothing contrived. His editing of what comes into his home is natural and sooooo, just sooooooo.

I am excited to share these homes with you and many more.

You can pre-order a signed copy of my new book at www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com and also check out these lovely artisans websites.

www.jamesplumb.com

www.wornwithlove.com

www.huwgriffith.com

Summer Blooms and Forever Florals

2011-08-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

While I appreciate each and every season, summers abundant flowers makes for daily gifts.

I love gathering vines and wildflowers from my own garden or sometimes local alley ways. Tall branches and trailing stems so easily create beautiful drama.

In one short month my roses have gone from frail closed buds to new plump petals. In my last blog I asked who had experienced sickly roses, and many thoughts were shared. A combination of suggestions, along with daily words of encouragement from me, have fairly quickly given new life to many of my roses. (thank you to all who gave guidance).

There are so many simple ways to present floral displays. I'm an instant gratification arts and crafts person. All these ideas are easy little projects that create big statements.

My feeling is Wisteria should be excused for such short blooming moments. Its as though it needs lots of prep time to create its abundant beauty. Weeping viney branches dropping a carpet of petals is worth the wait and the fleeting explosion of color.

Just down the road from The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell is the most profoundly peaceful and happy graveyard.

While fresh flowers are I believe one of gods greatest gifts. Their beauty and fragrance is magic at its best. And the endless interpretations are forever for us to enjoy.

I always dreamed of having a little floral named girl.....and my daughter Lily was that dream come true.....

Faith is like a lily, lifted high and white, PERFECT!!!!!!!!

And then the latest added inspiration in the world of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ is a faded little big chair.

Floral inspiration fuel forever florals.

Follow my journeys and inspirations on twitter.

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ online store NOW OPEN.

Time, The Greatest Gift

2011-07-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

I decided to give myself the gift of time this summer. As wonderful as all my busy world is, I felt the need to step back and just absorb and experience my life. Between the ebbs and flows of my career and being a mother, it has been a long long time that I have had the opportunity, to take time. Each day I am learning a little more how to sit in that place, and golly, what a gift.

Even though there are some design "no no's" at the beach shack, it lends itself perfectly for friends and family to come and go as they wish. Everything is a little sandy and moist but the view forgives any imperfections.

I have quite a list of things I would like to do in my "quiet time", but I realize, once I slowed down, catching up on sleep was #1. I have always prioritized in my designing to have little snoozing places, when going to bed isn't called for, just a place the "rest my eyes", as my mum used to say to me, and I have now adopted.

Seems like others have similar thoughts as these Folks Beds have been selling like hot cakes from my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores this summer.

I have quite a few house guests coming thru this summer. So when I am in town I wanted to make sure I still had a private hide place to take a few minutes.

This would be called a "box room" in London, but in the U.S. it's my walk in closet. It has always seemed just too much space to designate to my jeans and white t shirts so just recently I decided to let this be my hideaway and popped this beautiful lovely day bed...... (from Spain I am told, via England flea market).

One of my favorite joys is to have time to smell my roses. During all my travels during pruning time, my garden escaped being cut back, causing a rather chaotic end result. I usually like to direct the chaos but this year it's literally carved its own path.

However in my front garden, some of my favorite rose bushes have become diseased!!!! I don't know whether its in the ground or a spray, but my usual lovely floppy rose heads are struggling to blossom, and when they do they are tiny and shredded.

I have spoken to many about this problem and so far no diagnosis and I have even been told they may simply will not get well. So for now, I am taking the time to talk to the rose bushes. Since they got so sick, they have grown so many more thorns, its as though they don't want anyone near them. My arms are rather scratched up but I'm still hoping they may come back. If anyone out there has ever had shriveled small but blossomed roses, and found a cure, would love to know.

One of my house guests is lovely Laurence and Umbaldo, my artist friends from Paris. For those who follow my blogs, Laurence was here in the spring and did a magnificent collection of paintings of tutu"s and flowers. Most of which have been sold.

Like any artist, Laurence is always experimenting with composition and color. During her stay this summer I have requested more of her spring collections, but she is also painting some palettes from her hugely successful show in Paris this summer. By the time she is done, we hope to have paintings in all our stores.

One of my most pleasurable tasks is gathering elements for the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture little museum at The Prairie in September. I am pulling together some archival prints and designs, inspirational elements and media over the past 22 years. This exercise started off for myself, but actually think its worthy of sharing my journey.

I have also had the luxury of being able to pop into my store in Santa Monica, its been in the same location for 21 years now, and Janis does such a wonderful job executing my vision. I'm sure its nerve racking for them for me to have time on my hands, but for me I am loving taking the time to see all the little treasures amongst the bigger ones....

I often talk of how I have embraced the beauty of imperfection. But sometimes things are broke beyond repair. At least to repair in the form of which it was intended. A few days ago when I was clomping around my house, in my cowboy boots, for some reason a favorite cup, and different saucer just fell of a shelf. Don't know why. I was at first worried. Wondering if it was a sign.

I looked at the broken pieces and wondered if they could be glued back together again. The pieces were pretty splintered so I wondered if I was supposed to throw away. But still even within the splinters, little rays of gold and pinks shone, and my lesson was to let it find its voice and transform into something else. I have asked Laurence's boyfriend (he does abstract art) if somehow he can incorporate into a painting somehow....will keep you posted.

As the days of July tick away, I still have August ahead of me. To complete some of my projects and to continue embracing the true value of down time.

Two words are at the fore front of my mind. Humility and generosity. I am wanting to enter the fall with a little more of both in my character. I want to be more generous of my attention to others and not be so distracted. To listen more. And to always remember that to create wonderfulness is ALWAYS a team effort. And to accept compliments on behalf of our team, our village.

Life's Inspirations

2011-06-24T07:28:00.001-07:00

Life has often been my inspiration for my creativity.

Being a designer of a brand I have evolved but remained consistent with signature qualities and characteristics. But I do pride myself with being an authentic designer, not one who pulls ideas from trends and forecasts. Sometimes I take a creative license and bring into my world ideas that may step out of what is expected. But ultimately there is a common thread of beauty, comfort, and function.

I have created a signature for myself, of pastel colors, soft vintage fabrics and crackly paints. In recent years I have become more open to seeing and blending other aesthetics to perhaps inspire me or to accept "as is". My malibu cottage and my Liliput Lodge (at The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell), satisfies two very diverse rhythms of nature.

I have posted many painting of Laurence Amelie. Her tutus and flowers are such a perfect fit for Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores, and I took no risk in clearing wall space for her.

However, along with Laurence, is her lovely boyfriend Umbaldo. He is an artist in his own right. I see him as the masculine side of Laurence. His work is masculine and abstract. I would understand if not everyone understands where this work sits in my world, but I find peace in the abstract.

For me as an artist, I think it is most important to just be open to letting life guide us to what we need to create. And in that innocence I think wonderful things come.

PS...

Exciting peek.

We will be opening a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store at The Prairie in September.

There would have been a day when a dark blue floral print (albeit wonderfully vintagy), would not have made it into my palette, but Texas has opened me up to a whole new world of color........as I have said before.....Marie Antoinette goes to Texas is a perfect vision for the marriage of my aesthetic and that of Texas. It may take awhile to see how to blend it all, as we know, art is not a science, but life, as we see it.

This is country through and through. But will sit happily in the California sun, a loft in New York or in an old townhouse in London.

The more I step outside of what I know, the more mistakes I will make. But always it will be true.

Petite Buds And Grande Blossoms

2011-05-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

HOMAGE TO A FLOWER

Would I have the knowledge of a flower
That of knowing just what color I should be
What shape to take and where and when to be these things
As well as that
How long to stay and when to change that form
To draw my petals close as darkness falls
And open myself to the suns seductive warmth
And then to know
Now is the time to shed that shape and color
My naked center breathing soft until another spring.
(Written by my mum)

Flowers, flowers. The world is unimaginable without flowers.

Such diversity of attitude........sometimes a little accent is all that is needed, and sometimes an abundance. Sometimes they are the co star, sometimes the star of the show.

While less is more is my mantra in decorating, sometimes I love an explosion of flowers.......

At The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B & B, I had a couple of opportunities to layer flowers on top of flowers and then some.

When flowers are used in their faded form, there is a wonderful sense of faded beauty.

"You can't always get what you want" so said the Rolling Stones......

This does apply so often in life.......

I am so proud that in the world of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture, we do all we can to break that rule. We have recently introduced a Bespoke Bedding and Drapery program, which is designed in such a way that "you can get what you want" So nice to be able to say yes, in the world of so many NO's........

I have finally put the finishing touch touches on my latest book, Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Inspirations and Beautiful Spaces.... 12 plus extraordinary homes. Flowers of course played a big role throughout, so I suppose I could be forgiven for going over the top on my cover!!!!!

I went to the flower market in downtown Los Angeles...... I did my best to control my need to buy just one more bunch....

Couldn't decide on Peonies or Lilacs.....maybe both I thought.

But then in the end..................

View other beautiful floral inspirations at any of our three Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores.

Pink Princesses

2011-04-29T14:49:00.000-07:00

I have been lucky enough to be in London during the preparations and actual event of the wedding of Kate and Will. There has been a wonderful celebratory feeling for weeks. Most every street has union jack flags or bunting.

While walking down a street I came across this window. Brought back memories when Keep Calm & Carry On got us through some dark days.

A few nights ago after working all day at my publishers I took myself for a wander around my home town of London.

I walked to Westminster Abbey and over to Buckingham Palace.

After I wandered through St. James Park which connects the houses of parliament to Buckingham Palace, I came across a lovely lodge from the mid 1800's.

Next I decided to see if red white and blue were the only celebration colors, so I went in search of a pastel palette for a princess.

Every where there were souvenirs incorporating Kate and Wills portrait by Mario Testino. Some renditions became a little tacky. But in years to come they will likely be nostalgic treasure's.

Am not sure if a law was passed that every store had to have bunting strung .........I continued my search for pastel bunting.

I have been giving much thought as to why 2 billion people are expected to watch the wedding. And I myself, carved out the time to connect in my heart with the meaning of the day. Not just be an observer.

In the end I came to thinking, that no matter what we say, no matter how independent we are, no matter what tough face we put on, the princess dream never dies.

Hope, I think is an ingredient of being human. And even if we have put aside hope for ourselves, we still love to see others finding their prince and live happily ever after.

PINK of course is the color for princesses. I have spoken for years, about the right pink. Not too salmon or coral. Pink is the color of love. Quiet pretty love.

We have nearly sold out of these lovely paintings at my stores. But while we had several in the store, the energy was pure romance.

I wonder if people that shy away from pink are broken hearted and they would prefer not to be reminded.

For me, I will take pink to heaven with me..........finding pink treasures is my way being a princess. Placing them in my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores, is my way of passing on my hope, that if we believe in pink, our prince will one day come.

No doubt about it, one has to tread carefully with pink, as with love. Too much or too sweet can turn to a sugary syrup. Pink needs to be special and have its space. At The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell in Texas, I have sparingly placed a few pink vintage pieces. So far our cowboy guests have not complained.

I can get so wrapped up in my indelpendant happy life and being Miss Responsibility. So for me, I rely on pink to remind me I have my story book dream.

For those who can't take the whole princess pink thing too far there are always smokier versions that still keep us girly.

As the wedding preparations unfolded I think we all connected to the true elements of this fairly story.

Watching beautiful Kate, marry her prince. Watching Prince Will, knowing Diana would be so proud. Kate's parents, seemingly to have raised their children with traditional family values......and then there is Harry, he will be the next to follow. Could the story end perfectly happily ever after and he marry Pippa, his mummy watching from up above.

And while I wandered home, the night before the wedding, I was thinking of my sappy country music, and voila, Texas crossed my path, round the corner from Buckingham Palace.

My time has filled my heart that fairy tales do come true, and until such time, a little bit of pink tides us over...

Beauty In The Barn

2011-04-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

These past weeks I have been hosting my dear friend Laurence Amelie and her lovely boyfriend Umbaldo Picasso in my home in Brentwood. They are both extraordinary artists from Paris.

Over the years from time to time I have sold Laurence's paintings in my stores but she is now quite famous in Paris, so it is difficult for me to get her work here. Every time she paints a piece it gets sold from under me.......... so I have been holding her captive in my barn and she has been painting every day........

On her way to the barn Laurence would visually and emotionally absorb the inspiration from my garden.

The goal of Laurence's visit was to host a show of her work at my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store in Santa Monica.

Laurence mainly paints flowers and tutus. Both romantic, frilly and feminine subjects. However, her somewhat abstract hand gives her works a modern edge.

Over the years Laurence and I seem to share a similar evolution of our palette. While always embracing white and pastels, Laurence too is stepping into a smokier palette of browns, greys and darker blues.

When I first met Laurence about 8 years ago she was only doing flower paintings.

Today the barn is packed up as though Laurence was never there. A few happy tears have been wiped away. I am grateful to have evidence of her beautiful work, hung on the walls of my store.

Do pop by and see them if your passing. They are in our Santa Monica store now and some will dance and float their way across the country to the New York store by the end of April.

And in time we will have them on the walls at The Prairie By Rachel Ashwell Bed and Breakfast.

And now off to London to put the final touches on my latest book (due out in October) and then to see the royal wedding. (not going but will watch in on the tele with my dad). But I will take lots of Buckingham Palace and spring cherry blossom photos.....

The Pretty Prairie

2011-03-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

My "village" and I are busy bees, putting the final touches to get our Prairie Bed and Breakfast open. Barely have time to write, but am just tooo excited, not to share some photos with you.

This is just a little peek. Will send more soon, we open for biz on March 23rd. Our first wedding is booked for October and lots of other lovely plans in between. If life takes y'all near to the Prairie, come and experience a little piece of heaven..........

Please visit us at www.theprairiebyrachelashwell.com

Best Friends And Baby Showers

2011-03-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

Such a cliché to say it but seems like yesterday my daughter was a baby herself. So it took a moment to digest her words, "Hana's having a baby."

I had my children in my twenties. But somehow I still considered my daughter lily, and her friends, still to be girls.

This group of girls have been friends from pre-school through high school and continue as they enter their adult lives. I would be lying to say a few years of those girly teenage years weren't challenging. But somehow, having lived through some crazy happenings, (many I am sure I don't even know about), has made watching the girls become women, even more endearing.

So even though I am crazy busy with The Prairie By Rachel Ashwell about to open on March 23rd and shooting my book (out in stores in October,) I was touched when "the girls"asked if I would "help" pull the decorations for the shower together.

They had their limitations of time and budget, and I was determined not to supplement financially or with time. Always so easy for me to just takeover and "DO" myself. But seeing as there are likely to be many more celebrations of weddings and babies to come amongst these girls, I thought this was a good opportunity for a lesson on how to pull together a celebration.

First thing we did was all sit together, at 7 am on a Saturday morning I might add, that alone was impressive. We reviewed some ideas from my old books.

We got specific with a budget, projects and schedule. Then off to the flower market and art supply stores we went.

The girls got so inspired.....

Wandering the aisles of the art and craft store we found some foam signs ready for decorating.

Pink wax flowers and a package of "it's a girl" and pink teddy bears. (Wax flowers are good for this kind of thing as you get a load in a bunch, they have strong stems to poke through the foam and they last awhile.)

During our design discussions I shared my love of the use of feathers and letter stamps. Have done this loads of time. They loved the kind of hippie bohemian association of feathers (in the end we bought these feathers online.)

The biggest part of their budget was spent on flowers. The girls didn't want the shower to feel to wedding like, and nore did they have rose money. So they did a wild flower vibe.

They purchased wax flowers, stocks, baby's breath and other very affordable wildflowers, after our flower market field trip they are now fully educated for future flower needs.

Nowhere is more magical for me.

I borrowed an idea from my Sumptuous Settings book.

Back at the work station the girls began prepping flowers.

Along with the flowers, they bought mason jars, manilla hang tags, stamps and ink pads. Each floral display was under $4.00.

With lots of giggles they completed their decorations.

I decided to give Hana a bedding set from my Simply Shabby Chic collection at Target.

The inspiration for this collection was a bed lily had when she was a little girl. Keeping with the bohemian theme.

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture has just launched a baby bespoke bedding collection. Customers can choose from a lovely selection of floral prints and yummy white fabrics to custom make anything for a precious nursery. (Adult custom and ready made bedding is also available at Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores.)

With all the decorations behind them, the girls enjoyed their efforts for their friends special day.

Through Lu's Eyes

2011-02-09T07:52:00.001-08:00

Beauty is certainly in the eye of the beholder.

However, it seems to me over the years a Shabby Chic sisterhood (some brothers too) have evolved, and I think we all have a similar point of view of what beauty is to us aesthetically and emotionally.

A few years back Lu of "Dusty Lu" blog, found her way into my world. Every now and again she pops into a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture™ store to snap photos of new products, sometimes she will come along to a shoot, sometimes she just wants to get an infusion of beauty.

From time to time she will send me a collection of photos, "Beauty thru Lu's eyes."

This batch of photos were taken with the thought of having product shots for our website and editorials. But I loved that Lu had free reign to pick what she loved and shoot the photos just for beauty sake.

Love that left to her own discoveries,Lu shot these, aesthetically and emotionally bling, fru fru and faith, make the world go round.

What would beauty be without embracing imperfections. Beautifully patched and restored fabrics or scraps given a new lease of life are main fundamentals of the character and values of what I love in my design world.

I love candid shots more than posey ones. In my younger years they were easier to come by, now one has to step around the flaws..... Lu captured me deep in thought here.

These photos were from my latest book shoot.

Lu had an uncanny way of grabbing shots without barely being seen. Love behind the scene moments.

Lu thank you for loving all we do, we love all you do, and so grateful.

To see the inspirations behind all the photos, please visit us at www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com or come into any of our three stores.

The Dream In The Making. (update)

2011-01-18T08:27:00.000-08:00

Having the best time gathering treasures to furnish The Prairie.
(Changed over from The Ranch)

The village is hard at work. Lead by Jaimee and Danny!!!!!!!!!!!!. Will keep you updated as the dream unfolds. Hope to see y'all there one day.

www.theprairiebyrachelashwell.com

Genuine Luster

2011-01-18T08:25:00.001-08:00

Proof that I do read blog comments.........

One titled Genuine Luster asked me to do a blog on my personal style. Well this brought a major smile to my face as while I know I am very particular about what jeans, what boots, what top I do wear, they are all pretty much the same, so the fact anyone is interested, made my day......

So due to my lack of diversity, this will be brief.

99% of the time, shabby or chic, I always feel my best in my uniform. I loved the explanation from Rachel Zoe that it's important we get out of our comfort zone. Haven't succeeded in that yet. I have my fat jeans and thin jeans and somewhere in the middle. (that's where I am now).

I hated the high waisted skinny jeans and ballet flats phase.....just didn't work for me, not at all. I am most excited that I hear bell bottoms are coming back. Especially in jeans, helps make top of legs look skinny and long.....hooraayy

For me when I choose a top, I am very careful that the sleeve cuts in just the right place. A cap sleeve is death for me. A shirt that is too bulky with big frills just makes me look big.

I really have a hard time dressing up. I like to dress age appropriate, but not dowdy. Often when I go shopping I come back empty handed as mirrors and changing rooms become very depressing. I have found my best treasures to compliment my jeans are vintage. They don't particularly look vintage, just special.

One thing to note, in all the above photos, I wear the same belt, every single day of the year. I have a fairly edited closet. The less to choose is the least decisions to make. I have great association with the few pieces I consider my staples, and in some cases a choice of one is plenty.

For sure I am a much better editor at a flea market than a clothing store, so this is as much attention span that I have for this subject....... thank you for the
writer of Genuine Luster.....

www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Eye Candy

2011-01-06T08:08:00.000-08:00

I certainly got my share of seasonal weather this year, between snow in London and endless rain in Los Angeles.However, somewhere amongst all the weather a few beautiful Malibu days of sunshine snuck in. So timely for a shoot for an upcoming publication.

I always try and design product that is flexible in its use. when weather permits, love bringing indoor furniture outside.

Staying true to my aesthetic is something very important to me. To do so I have to gain my inspiration from quietly observing life. I was in London for the announcement of Prince William and Kate Middleton. I was most moved and impressed by their maturity and careful consideration for the role models that they are........inspiration for all on many levels.

Designing furniture and bedding as I have for so many years, it is always important for me to bring in new and fresh ideas, but preserve the core values of beauty, comfort and function. While the world goes whizzing by, and newness comes and goes, I will always protect the world that we all seem to feel safe and comfy in.

Funny how sometimes the simplest things in the world can be the most complicated to develop. These were one of those tricky things. But so worth it.

Another simple special new treasure.

As I mentioned in my last blog, I am going to try and try and try, and take moments here and there, to stop and smell the roses. or gazing out at the ocean too.........

To see these and other treasures, please come into any of our stores or go to www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Knowing Oneself

2010-12-16T08:00:00.001-08:00

Funny how the close of one year and the beginning of another always prompts reflections of time past, and intentions of time to come. I find this time of year so valuable to ask myself questions about me......make sure I am living a life that brings out the best in me, to benefit myself and others.

Learning to accept our limitations and imperfections I am understanding is as important as acknowledging our strengths and talents. Knowing what we can accept of ourselves as well as what we need to work on.

One of the gifts of getting older is honing our awareness of ourselves. While I have always been driven by my soul and passion, I have to take care to keep balanced, otherwise it all for nothing.

I love the sound of a ticking clock. To me it is a profound reminder of time, of which I am happy to be reminded.

We can design our gardens, choose our flowers, palette and placement. We can encourage and try to guide, but in the end nature will take its own time, and find the path that is best, and usually, it seems creates more beauty than we ever imagined. Often when I get in a tizzy, time in the garden, observing the architecture of all that goes on, calms me and reminds me, that things work out.

I find when I race through life too quickly. I don't even get to keep the memories. I have such awareness and appreciation for all that I have, so shame on me if I miss my own life.

I loved this thought and it inspired me to take time with everything I do so the memories are locked in my mind forever.

Another lesson in my maturing is knowing when to fight for something, and when to let go. When something flows, and when something just isn't meant to be. And to trust that.

For me, when I hit dead ends, I have learned to reach into my inspiration bucket, and see what speaks to me.

My "village" and I are all so excited at the projects that we are just embarking upon.....

And then my big little dream is finding its space in the world, when I wasn't really even looking.

The Ranch by Rachel Ashwell in Texas.

I have much to gratefully reflect on, so that I can make the right decisions as I venture down these paths. I am hoping all my lessons up till now will culminate in creating something magical and special for us all.......I will of course share each step as they evolve......

And lastly I want to thank each and every one of you who take the time to write your comments. Your words inspire me and fuels the cycle of rachelashwellshabbychiccouture. I wish you all your dreams for 2011.

Heartfelt Couture Christmas

2010-12-04T07:35:00.000-08:00

For those who have followed my blog, my Peter Pan and Wendy view from my window in London became a winter wonderland this week.

I have been in London for a few weeks. Visiting dad, friends and of course the little treasured Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store.

My design team and I are committed to staying true to our aesthetics, and not tread into red and green.Pale pink, white, silver sparkle make for Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture holiday decorations.

This holiday season we decided to make as many holiday decorations as possible. Once again hoping to create future heirlooms.

While these elements may not be the first thought for Christmas, Christmas to me is about beautiful little moments, that shine a light on celebrations of love, family gatherings and that extra special fanciness.

My aesthetics fully embraces Marie Antoinette in Texas!!!!!! This means decadence gone primitive.

To me these are the very very best Christmas stars.........forever lasting. I love it when it just works to mix the frills with the basics.

While in London I was introduced, via Itunes to the Rachel Zoe Project on Bravo. I found each episode so entertaining and informational. And sooooo funny. And while she is a third of my size, I identified with many aspects of her career. Loved her phrase of "this is major", "I am obsessed," "I could die" right now. I confess to having borrowed some of her phrases when seeing the magic evolve of this years Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Christmas.

So green and red are easy to omit from my holiday festivities........but a bit of bling is always needed. Actually 365 days a year.

Living in California for 30 years, there have been times I have yearned for the seasons. Somehow blue skies and palm trees don't feel right in December.

Well this week I got my wish, as Europe is covered in a blanket of snow. So very beautiful. Picture book actually. I reveled in the joy of preparing the store with heartfelt treasures, and popped out for 5 minutes for a cup of hot chocolate

Purchase these and other beautiful decorations for the holidays at Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores. Happy Holidays.

"Home" What It Is And How To Get There.

2010-11-17T18:41:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot just how much I travel.

Visiting friends and family, visiting my three stores, or just restocking my inspiration bucket. I have adjusted to finding what feels like home, in many different ways.

The moment I arrive on the streets of London, my inner wiring is set. I love the sunny blue days, but only if I get to have the gloomy days too.

Home in London is a tiny little flat, all white of course.

Home in Los Angeles, a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture white linen plump chair.

Home isn't always about a house. Sometimes its just where our loved ones are. For me that takes quite some traveling.

Or home can simply be a great vintage cabinet where we hang our hats......

.

Looking for inspiration takes me far and wide across the world. While photos in magazines or movies can be great sources of ideas, there is nothing better than experiencing different cultures.

I wasn't sure what to expect going to India. I have only been there one time. I had an emergency plane landing there. (more of that later)

But the colours and textiles that I was able to see were so very lovely. So very soothing to the eyes. And the handiwork is just lovely.

Similar pink dupioni curtains in Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores.

Seems I have instigated a life with my work, friends and family that can only function with the invention of flying. Thank goodness for planes, except I have a crippling fear of flying.

From the moment I book a flight, (which is frequently), whether to San Francisco or Singapore I have butterflies in my stomach. From a week before travel I am watching the weather reports from my take off city, to my landing city. And all cities in between.

Often when I step foot on the plane I have to have lengthy talks with the pilots and review the turbulence report with them. I must have a window seat. I have exchanged a business class aisle seat with a window in coach. I am convinced me looking out the window is willing the plane to stay in the sky.

I never eat or drink, as I am very busy keeping the plane flying. And no one can ever talk to me. Unless it's the pilot who may have heard about my statue like demeanor.

But I fly.

From time to time I do a fear of flying course. I just completed one last week with Virgin Airlines.

200 like minded people attended. All seemingly normal. (I's was quite a sight all of us being herded through Gatwick Airport.) Past security as the "special group"

We all shared our particular fears. some I hadn't even thought of before. So now I have some brand new ones.

The full day of discussions ended with a flight to nowhere. We landed at the same airport we took off from.

We flew over London for ten minutes. The pilot talking us through every single noise and bump. if only every flight had a pilot speak all the way. It was the usual rainy cloudy skies, so plenty of bumps. When the plane landed, there was such an applause you would have thought we had invented flying rather than having just flew.

The day was wonderfully helpful. I have new tools of tapping on my forehead, confirmations that turbulence is of no issue to the pilot or the plane.......

But I still wish there were a magic carpet, or I had wings..........

www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

In Front Of My Eyes......

2010-11-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

I like to use blogging to communicate my stream of consciousness. Of recent days I was having a writers blogging block.....Until I walked into the New York location of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store.

I design what I hope to be "keep forever things", it takes time to be inspired, to design, to source elements needed and eventually manufacturing. Sometimes for many reasons products take quite some time to find their way on to the shop floor. As I walked through the New York store this week I was reintroduced to some products that had become a long lost, but favourite friend.

Being inspired is the number one ingredient for me to keep evolving as a designer. Sometimes it takes time for an inspiration to find its home. I like to keep all inspirations in vision until I match the inspiration with design.

Layering of textures with a smokey palette create a visual tapestry.

While I was walking my way through my store, I found myself, re-inspired by the original source of inspiration.

Feminine pastel french and raw primitive smokey aesthetics share Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture floor space. So very different, but still they hold all the qualities that fall under my design umbrella, pretty, soft, authentic, subtle, unique, inviting, whimsical.......telling stories.

So while I was searching my thoughts for a subject to write, walking into my store, gave me all that I needed, right in front of my eyes....and that is rewarding.

The cycle of inspiration continues.

Find these and other beautiful inspirations at www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Lights, camera, action and a quiet twinkle. (for the holidays or any day.)

2010-10-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Last year I filmed a web commercial for Target focusing on creating a festive table. I used simple every day items from target and layered in some vintage pieces too. It was fun and stress free to pull it together.

Layering interesting textures and fabrics makes for an interesting background to build upon. I commonly find unfinished or discarded needle points and always love to find a purpose to exhibit the labor of love.

I'm not too good at labour intensive art and craft projects. But I do like to make things that are unique. I found some stationary and sticky letters and made some place setting cards.

Layering affordable dinnerware, cutlery and linens is so much more satisfying and user friendly than "special occasion" pieces. And then adding little special details, makes it all priceless.

While pastels is where I naturally go for my palette, sometimes seasons and events have a different plan. I can embrace colors outside of my comfort zone, so long as I can still blend in elements that stay true to my aesthetics. Adding a floppy silk bow keeps the bolder colors in the world of softness.

Every little detail plays a role of equal importance. I was so happy with the affordability but still lavish end result.

In my design studio we are busily making decorations that will find their way into the stores over the next few weeks. Once again, we are using some vintage trinkets and some affordable bits and bobs.

I so love my drawers and boxes of treasures and trinkets. Whether for a special occasion or "just because," I can make any day feel like Christmas. and that's pretty special.

www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Not "settling" but when "making do" becomes the right thing.

2010-09-19T07:48:00.000-07:00

My tendency is not to hang too much art on my walls. I am more of a "leaner against the wall" person. I think it's a combination of liking the casual aesthetic of leaning, but also moving around as I do, its easier to pick up and go.

Seems where I am nesting now has some permanence to me so the other day I got out my hammer and (white) nails and started hanging. When I was done, the placement just didn't feel right.

So what were my choices.
1. I could settle and let them be, even though it just wasn't "me."
2. I could take them down, but then have to deal with the nails and holes in my wall.
3. I could take them down but cover up the holes with something more "me."

This situation got me thinking metaphorically, when are we settling in life versus when do we "make do" with a situation but tweak it into something special.

Many of the philosophies of Shabby Chic are about transforming other peoples "deciding not to settle" pieces into "magical make do's."

The trick is learning when we are settling or when we are just stuck in our pre-conceived ideas on how things should be or how we want them to be, versus taking a different seat at the table and just looking at things differently.

I'm learning how not to settle in being irritable when things don't go as I had hoped.

With the world of technology as it is we all become to reliant on machines. The other day my dryer decided it didn't want to dry anymore.

Funny though how when life forces up to do things differently we can then look back and think "why didn't I think of that before I was forced to."

When that happens, I make sure I take a moment of gratitude for having received guidance.

I have a weird hanging light fixture that I have inherited at a beach shack I am staying at for a little. I don't want to settle!!!!! But I don't want to make a big to do about it.

However, the making do took time to work out.

The galaxy of stars I landed up using was a silver garland made by Tjord Boonjte. There are different sizes and colors available. Originally I tried ones in pink and white. But they just didn't work. However the garlands arrive in a flat pack and once opened they were impossible to repack. So VOILA #2.

I discarded the unused paper lanterns on top of a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture cabinet. Even though keeping the white or pink garland on the light space ship would for sure have been "settling', the "make do" is now an art installation in my home. So very beautiful.

A friend of a friend came over the other day and bought a couple bottles of wine as a gift. Not knowing I'm not a wine drinker. I didn't want to have to "fake drink", so instead I focused on the bottle. What could have been an unappreciated gift became a truly appreciated gift...2 beautiful bottles, with the best labels.

I didn't settle with my feelings, or honesty but I certainly had a magical "make do" experience.

Settling, making do......only we can judge. What appears to just not fit to others, doesn't mean that for us, its just perfect. And if not, we have the choice, let it go or change our seat around the table, and maybe with some tweaking and magical bits and bobs, or perspective it becomes imperfectly perfect...

PS: hope to see you at one of these events...........

Round Top Flea Market
At the Junk Gypsy Tent
By Zapp House
Warrenton, TX 78961
Date/Time: September 30th from 11am - 3pm
Visit the Junk Gypsy Blog announcing Rachel's book signing

The Remnants of the Past Flea Market
(entrance fee $7.00)
The Dana Powers House
535 Mehlschau Road
Nipomo, CA 93444
Date/Time: October 2nd from 1pm - 4pm
To preorder books www.remnantsofthepast.com
Visit the Remnants of the Past Blog announcing Rachel's book signing

Robb & Stucky Interiors
351 S. State Road 434
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Date/Time: October 7th from 6pm - 8:30pm
For further information contact (407)682-3700

Book Signings And Saying Hello.

2010-08-19T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last october this book came out......over the course of the year I have traveled the globe. Some events were in conventional book stores, some at seminars and some in antique store venues.

I have so enjoyed meeting everyone and sharing stories. Some conversations have stayed close the subject of home and design and some have veered off into other avenues.......

Round Top Flea Market
At the Junk Gypsy Tent
By Zapp House
Warrenton, TX 78961
Date/Time: September 30th from 11am - 3pm
Visit the Junk Gypsy Blog announcing Rachel's book signing

The Remnants of the Past Flea Market
(entrance fee $7.00)
The Dana Powers House
535 Mehlschau Road
Nipomo, CA 93444
Date/Time: October 2nd from 1pm - 4pm
To preorder books www.remnantsofthepast.com
Visit the Remnants of the Past Blog announcing Rachel's book signing

Robb & Stucky Interiors
351 S. State Road 434
Altamonte Springs, FL 32714
Date/Time: October 7th from 6pm - 8:30pm
For further information contact (407)682-3700

These last three events for the year are three very diverse locations. Texas, where my heart always feels just right, Florida that is always an adventure into the unknown to me, and back to California, my home of 30 years.

I have embraced the beauty of imperfection for two decades. My intention with this book was to demonstrate the perfection in the imperfection. However, why I am most proud of this book is in the story telling and I do hope to continue down that path......

Once these events are complete I will return back to my nooks of inspiration to continue my love and commitment to creating and communicating whimsical, comforting and meaningful goodies in life.

I look forward to seeing all of you that can make any of these events....and those of you who cannot, there is more to come.

Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Interiors can be purchased at any of my 3 store locations.

www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

It Takes A Village

2010-08-11T07:41:00.001-07:00

Searching for treasures at fleamarkets has been my inspiration to design and my source to supply magic to Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores, for many years.

Rising before daybreak and shopping in sometimes fairly yucky weather is challenging but my eyes are now quite well trained to seek and edit so rarely do I leave empty handed. But once I have found the treasures, there is quite a process that takes place, before it arrives in one of my stores, in L.A., N.Y. or London.

Beau has been traveling and shopping with me for several years. It takes a certain temperament to shop, track, load and deliver. I'm not known to be the life and soul of any party, but I think I do inspire much fun and laughter on our fleamarket adventures.

And then of course the group effort begins.

This is just part of the team......

Each piece has to arrive safely back at our restoration hub....... and once restored while carefully embracing the imperfections, the process of getting to a store and in to the hands of my sales associates, where they relate the stories of the search to our customers.

There is a romance that is unique to these products....they all have stories.

When I opened my first store 21 years ago, fleamarket treasures were at the core of the aesthetic . this has held true all these years. While more scarce to find, and trends of reproduction and reclaimed woods has helped tell my story, the layer of the unique and authentic is unachievable any other way than to search for treasures in others junk.

The lovely thing about the evolution of filling a container, is each piece has its reason for being chosen to come into the world of Shabby Chic. Sometimes its beauty is simply irresistible and will feed be soothing an inspiring eye candy, but the plainer more solid pieces have equal value and importance, already having served other homes, years of being counted on.

Once the container is unloaded Beau creates some order in the chaos so all involved can do what they need to do. For my benefit, groupings into color allows me to distribute to stores with diversity.

While pops of colors need to be carefully found and placed, when its the perfect pop, it becomes the WOW.

The chic of shabby can often mean some bling, however to keep the shabby satisfied the bling has to be battered and tattered. The very nature of Florentine allows for the perfect balance.

Over the years it has been harder to find specific items that are classic in my shops....... whenever I do find them, I snap them up.

I often say less is more when finding the perfect elements for a room.......as long as the less is just right.....and that's worth searching and waiting for. No need to settle, as those treasures are out there.

I have never been one for buying precious valuable art. I just buy the visual I love and usually a feeling comes along with it. Might be a landscape, might be a portrait or some lovely flowers, sometimes framed, sometimes the raw canvas. Brimfield fleamarket often is a treasure trove of east coast landscapes......

Mix and matching table settings has always been a favourite decorative signature of mine..... I love how diverse colours and styles plates and bowls collected over years from numerous fleamarkets, in the end, all sit comfortably on a table...

On this last buying trip I found some pieces of the typical palette, pink florals and sweet pieces.

I seem to be drawn to grey's and teals in many areas of my design world. The smokey mellow palette is so very beautiful to me.

I find I have the best success at editing through a fleamarket if I have some specific goals...... Colour is a good way to pull together discombobulated pieces. And after a while of gathering I find myself with beautiful stories.

I don't find as much glassware as I wish. I have been known to borrow some treasures that have been purchased with the stores in mind, but once used for a dinner party, or a vase I find too hard to part with. They add such a special eclectic layer to my otherwise subtle palette.

I embrace all original paint on furniture.....but sometimes little tweaks make such a big difference.

So this is just a little viewing of my last fleamarket treasure hunt.

Much of these beauties will land up in the shops, some will be used for inspiration for future designs in Target or other projects. A fifty foot container will keep us inspired, for a little, and then we will do it all over again.

See these and other treasures at www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Restoring And Recharging

2010-07-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

For the past few years my personal and business life has taken me to many corners of the globe. I have considered my Blackberry to be my lifeline to keep in communication 24/7.

However, when I was recently in London my blackberry struggled to get charged, and the light on the screen stayed on and on. Till in the end, it burnt out and broke. In the past I would have panicked at the prospect of missing the "little red light". But on deeper thinking, I realized my personal light had also been on and on.....and I too was burnt out.

So far I have not replaced my Blackberry but have been focusing on recharging my own personal battery, my soul....

I am always guaranteed to be creatively refreshed after a flea marketing trip. Having just returned from Brimfield in July. It was sooo hot, but so lovely. I filled a container with goodies for the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores, had lots of cold lemonade drinks, and then stumbled across a lake that was as breathtaking as Monet's Givenchy Garden in France.

So very often it's the quiet simple things of life that bring us back to life. For me a cold rainy day walk rewires me.

We all talk about the value of nature, peace, and simple living. Funny how sometimes we put every obstacle in our way to prevent this living. But it's always there for us......and I find I need these elements to literally breathe......

Preparations for a dinner party should be effortless. Informal, but still eye candy. As usual I find this is accomplished with keeping things on the simple side. Just beautiful things from the cupboard.

My latest book is Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Interiors. I focus on the many evolutions and meanings of a home. The empty nest, the everything room. Home can be many things, but mostly it must be where we go to recharge.

Emails can never replace stacks of handwritten letters, delivered by the post man. Gathering scraps for future projects can only be absorbed with flipping through pages
seeing the "real thing" in museums is treasures first hand.

And then finally, if still our heart and soul is missing a connection, there is always that special place, somewhere in the world, that puts us back together again.

So for now, I am reconnecting with my life, without my lifeline Blackberry.

Light As A Feather

2010-07-07T05:20:00.000-07:00

Hope is a thing with feathers.
That perches in the soul.
And sings the tunes without the words.
And never stops at all.
(Verse from Emily Dickinson poem)

I love the metaphor of feathers meaning hope. To me, this poem inspired thoughts of how hope cannot always be spoken. On dark days it can seem that hope could fly away, but actually it is more grounded and attached to our soul.

That even when heavy storms come at the very core hope stays solid. Like a feather and carries us through. Always.

In recent times I have been very aware of the significant role feathers play in our lives of everyday things.

Their diversity and beauty cross over from decorative to substantial.

I question if the experience of dipping a quill in a pot of ink, gave more time to ponder the choice of the exact words so as to communicate with clear meaning. Is the speed of technology diluting the accuracy of speaking our truths?

My mantra has been beauty, comfort and function for two decades.

I see them all as equal importance. Function and beauty is somewhat subjective. However, comfort is universal. Maybe varying degrees of "mush", but soft and comfy is something we all want. While there are many wonderful substitutions to feather that we happily sell in Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores, I love the idea of feathers in our products.

A little bit of Bling.......

2010-06-18T08:41:00.001-07:00

Just last week we had our London Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store party.

The little shop in Notting Hill was packed from corner to corner and overflowed into the street.

The first stop was the local Pound Store on Portobello Road.

I find pulling together special events from bargain shops and fleamarkets so rewarding. Often I don't know what I'm going to find, so I go with an open mind until I find bits and bobs that I feel will pull together and make a story. All I knew with this event was I wanted as much Bling as I could find.

I couldn't find an affordable cupcake stand with the bling I wanted so decided to make one.

I find a bit of silver, gold, or jewels goes a long way to create a feeling of special. But this is also where the "less is more " theory comes into play. Even though my designs are always thought to be subtle, time worn and faded, where I can I sneak in some quiet sparkle.

The words shabby and chic, continue to be the perfect description of how I like to dull down the chic and twinkle up the shabby. Crystals, rhinestones, metallic threads, mercury glass and silver leather are constants in my design ensembles, often hidden in the ruffles or carvings as a little surprise. Las Vegas glamour I will never be, but a touch of tattered elegance captured from some quiet bling is very me.

This is plenty diamond for me..... I have a hard time getting dressed up fancy, but sparkle and bling is often all that is needed ...........

For store locations, please visit rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Food For Thought

2010-06-04T11:04:00.000-07:00

Food to eat and a place called home are what comes to mind as necessities of life. But I do believe inspiration is high on the list of a food that we need to feed our souls and help find our passion. And for me, when I am not inspired, nothing else is quite right.

I have a few of these books now. They are quite cumbersome in weight, but full to the edges with guaranteed fuel when a missing piece of an idea is needed.

This is my visual journal.

The lesson I am learning daily in my life is to be "awake" to all layers of happenings.

To be open to all that my eyes see. To take the time to observe things for what they are, and to let ideas of what they could become, flow....

I find space of nothingness is needed for inspiration to find its voice. Depending on the day, something can be viewed in a new light. So I do what I can to leave as much "food for thought" in my eye shot.

There are certain characteristics that are loyal to my aesthetics. Whenever I see them, they catch my eye and I feel for a moment, like home.

Marie Antoinette's reign in the 1700s in Versailles left volumes of aesthetic inspiration. Sometimes I take little pieces of it and slip them into a funky setting and sometimes I embrace all the sumptous luxuries.

The manifestation of anything that is created from being inspired, from something of depth and substance, often carries a little extra element of specialness.

Whether at a flea market, a museum, a movie or walking down a street.........
The "right pink" always causes me to do a double take.............

The end result of this thought is that inspiration is always around. It is just for us to be open for seeing things in different ways..... and life becomes richer all around.

To see more of what my inspirations produced, please visit rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

Pure Beauty

2010-05-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

It all started with this one pot about 18 months ago.

My latest book Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Interiors is about the insides of my own and other homes. At the time of doing the photos of "MY HOUSE FOR ALL REASONS" I had little to no garden. And in fact made mention on pg. 81 to learning the meaning of patience through nature. "I have learned the pace of nature, her secret is patience. Knowing one day my roses will grow, shrubs will bloom, and flowers petals will fall on the sun drenched gravel".

Once all the yucky work was completed on my renovation of my house I was given the "all clear" to start planting. Somehow a rose bush thief crossed my path and twice three bushes from the front row were dug up and stolen. It saddened me greatly that these bushes were kidnapped from there new home.

My Lavender did attract many many bees, but actually they were always too preoccupied with the Lavender to bother with ankles.

I was told that lavender was placed to line pathways so the aroma would be swept up amongst the petticoats of ladies.

I am always soo proud when I see people stop and look in wonderment of my organized chaos of my garden. Another great lesson that nature brings us. So long as each root has its place, and is nourished, it will find its place in this world. However chaotically its journey may be.

I always had quite a vision of wanting a lavender and floral path from my back door to my back gate. I had to make for a wonky path as it wasn't a straight line. But wonky is Shabby's sister.

I have learnt to tippy toe in my high heals and keep the gravel out of my sandles. Gravel really settles well under my cowboy boots.

I had recently come home from some travels and had opened my top window before I went out to my back garden. So when the flowers popped through my window I was quite giggly.

Building a barn out back of my house, satisfies my fantasy of living in the countryside.

This is the most manicured part of the yard. But its like a zen moment.

Much needed with all else going on.

My wonky pathway leads me to my back gate.
Not often in life do we get to lay our own path.

It is truly not possible to not smile and have a skip in my step as I walk past this pure beauty on my way out the back gate.

I don't pride myself with having a green thumb.

I had a wonderful landscape gardener, Yanetty Designs in California who listened carefully to my vision and with her knowledge and patience she created the magic.

My job now is to talk to my flowers, smile, stop and smell the roses and be soooo thankful.

Just wanted to share this week.

Will be leaving my lovely garden for London....

To view our stores and products please go to www.rachelashwellshabbychiccouture.com

The Rose Less Traveled

2010-04-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

In the past few months I have travelled from London to New York, spending time in both Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores and visitng with friends and my family. Then onto Minneapolis to discuss future projects of Simply Shabby Chic at Target headquarters and then to Los Angeles for a book signing and babyshower and finally to the High Point furniture fair in North Carolina.

Two oversized pink flowers travelled the world with me.

Funny how its the simplest things in life that become showstoppers.

In Southern California a lovely store hosted a book signing for me. Every possible detail was considered.

It was nearly a year ago that my life seemed to be in crumbling mode.
The British quote "Keep Calm and Carry On" became the mantra in my office.
What a difference a year makes.

Sometimes I question how I became so lucky to have experienced all that I have.
I do make sure I acknowledge all the lovliness that crosses my path.

In between travels I had a tea party/baby shower for my dear friend Jaimee who runs Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture.

It was a group effort of all of the west coast associates of Shabby Chic.

We pulled together some fun vintage items and some arts and craft projects and made for a personal lovely event. Quite affordably.

Thru Angie's direction lots of lovely little details .....

I was given a bunch of sweet peas and pink carnations and they turned out to be the perfect flowers for the event.

Last stop High Point North Carolina, for the High Point furniture show. I was there attending the launch of a wholesale collection of "Shabby Chic" furniture. This is a beautiful line (different to the line in Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores) of furniture and fabrics that is constructed and designed at a competitive price point. Many retailers from coast to coast purchased the collection. Still appreciating mushy and comfy.

All such lovely events.

Think I will leave the roses in Los Angeles.

LITTLE TREASURES WITH BIG STORIES

2010-03-31T12:21:00.000-07:00

Lee Alexander McQueen (1969 - 2010)

True mesmerizing art seems never to be born from artists comfort zones. Sometimes art is created from the space made in a cracked soul, sometimes the space from a jubilant joyous experience, but one thing for sure is when an artist creates something that people have a connection, passion and intensity is usually at the core.

Lisa Dirkes is an artist you have seen me blog about from time to time. We continue to sell her art in Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores. Her art is both thought provoking and whimsical. I watch customers read her words and study her paintings until they find one that they connect to.

I value my gift of artistry and of recent times have connected with how vital to me every detail of my work is. All of my senses seem to have jelled.

I find myself pottering in one of my three stores making magical moments with the treasures of my travels. As I potter I have met so many "lovely yous"

As I combine elements to tell stories I feel as though its my way of writing poetry or a story. There is always a thread of meaning for me, even though its a feeling that draws me to create my visions. I recently had a heady conversation with my son who is at art school. I was asking meanings behind his paintings. We discussed how differently we process.

My heart is often filtered from my brain.....his has a direct path. True evolution for me perhaps will be one day to create with no thought.

Certain theatrical pieces are irresistible to me for my story telling. While I don't know if these wings will ever be used as part of a costume again, from the moment I saw them big meanings came to me.

The fragility of the lace, still so beautiful but strong enough to hold the frames together......the threadbare gold trim covering the metal structure, still shimmering ......

My mind found such meaning and power in this little tattered, discarded pile of angel wings. How to move through life, at a level that we can see all points of view, that only wings can take us to. And to always try and maintain our grace, beauty and sparkle. Even as we get a little tattered.

Much as though I am the biggest culprit of shorthand blackberry talk, I still greatly appreciate the purity of the English language. Spoken and written correctly.
Words do after all, hold the meaning of communication, I am always looking out for inspirational reminders of "life". Quotes are powerful moments to recharge our meandering thoughts.
Whenever I see words placed together in a way that makes a difference of how I feel, I try to find ways to share. Either through my books, moments in my stores...
or sometimes within my products.

It is very important to me to create an experience for customers when they come to a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic store, whether in New York, Los Angeles or London. Cultures vary, the weather most certainly does. But I try to be consistent with our message.
And that is to create magic, a unique product with a unique way of telling a story.
Because my mind works in stories it is challenging for my associates to always know what to do when they receive a box of "vintage magic" as we call it.

"Rachel, tell me about this swan," Danielle, the assistant manager from the New York store asked me.........

I looked at the swan carefully again. I placed it in a few settings in the New York store. It was certainly pretty enough to just "be". But where for me it came to life...was when I placed it on a raw wooden lazy susan, nestled amongst our smokey blue overdyed tablecloths, not yet seeing land represented by the white linen ruffle of our darcy chair.

The story.......
The beautiful swan found a safe resting place on a floating piece of wood that twirls for easy viewing.
Surrounded by beautiful peaceful blue waters of the pond.
The swan will eventually find its way to the pure land of the white.........when its ready.

Or maybe Danielle will just let it "be."

We also sell a lovely chandelier called "Penelope." I'm sure there is a story to why, but I will spare you another......

Being an artist, obsession is never far away.
Looking for balance is a daily ritual. The challenge is to know what elements we need for balance.

In the case of Penelope and the Flower...... the glass may be a hard material but it is also easily breakable and transparent.
The little flower, may get stained and tattered, but it has a better chance of survival due to its flexibility and ability to not reveal all the time......
So while we need both for balance, perhaps the little flower can be counted on more.

This painting had his own story written. He just wanted to find me. I am so grateful my eyes were open on March 19th 2010 at the Shepton Mallet Flea in England.
I bought very little that day as it was pouring with rain. But this painting felt like a little treasure with a big story and I didn't leave disappointed.

As it turns of March 19th was the Patron Saint Day for St Joseph.
He was the Patron Saint of humble work, working with hands. He was a compassionate man and is seen as a guardian of dreams. He is often pictured holding a white lily, a symbol of purity.

Could I ask for anything more?

The end result to this, while I am in a business of materialism and commerce. I do hope my legacy will be more about the philosophical values of these treasures that I believe find me, looking to be part of a story of mine or yours.........

For those of you attending this spring's high point market next week I will be at the following locations:

Sunday, April 18th, 12 - 2
Seminar
IHFC Green Wing 11th Floor, Ballroom B
Space is limited. Email hallred@ihfc.com for registration.

Monday, April 19th, 5:00 - 8:00
Cocktail party and book signing
Miles Talbott Showroom, 1690 English Road

Please note:
Highpoint is open to the trade only, attendees must have a valid attendee badge.

English Life

2010-03-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

One of my first purchases as I have frequented the English fleamarket world was this little box of horse shoes. And while life has thrown out the usual frustrations and hurdles, luck has graced my daily life.

Proof of luck being on my side is how I stumbled on this white "everything" flat. (Not such a common find in the grey wet world of London). My bedroom view looks out onto an English garden square surrounded by the backs of many houses.

I can't help but believe at night Peter pan and Wendy are flying past my window. My imagination is very alive.

Portobello antique market is literally on my doorstep. I am fed with inspiration everyday as soon as I open my door.

Still so very affordable I am able to pick up vintage pitchers and cups that I scatter through my temporary nest. Toothbrushes, flowers or gravy for Sunday dinner is well housed.

But I have also gone further afield from my doorstep.

My favourite so far is at a racetrack called kempton park. Funny because sometimes I forget where I am and realize I could just as easily be in Marburger, Texas or Brimfield, Mass.

Treasures and tales of discovery are the same the world over.
Even with the freezing cold rain and snow the "shows go on".

While I have continued to be quite busy getting the London Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store running I have stolen a few weekends to go to my beloved English countryside.

Cotswolds.com
This beautiful town doesn't particularly embrace my "beauty of imperfection" value.

But its perfection is pretty close to perfect. Local honey coloured limestone is yummy. Gorgeous homes, landscapes, grazing animals make distinguishing a postcard and reality quite tricky. I connect better with wilder and more rugged surroundings, but somehow the Cotswolds is an exception. Worth going to if you ever pop to England.

Amongst all my travels and excitements of events, wherever I am, I have a little artists corner of a painting I love, and a space to create new...........for now this is occupied with a painting my friend Laurence gave me. (similar ones are available at my shops.)

SLEEPING (the anchor of our days)

2010-02-23T15:59:00.000-08:00

These past few months I have found myself in lovely comfy hotels and homes, and not so lovely and comfy.

My lessons over the years have served me well to create a world that incorporates all senses. Encourage drifting into a peaceful sleep, wherever I may be.

I try to make the beginning and end of my day a secure anchor of what goes on in between. Satisfying the qualities of sight, touch, sense and sound helps create the perfect space to both drift away and return to life.

And creating a sense of peace and tranquility.

TOUCH.......
Thread count is of little interest to me. The hand of crisp, freshly laundered and crinkled sheets are my prerequisites for luxury and comfort. (I have many a time arrived at a less than lovely home or hotel with my private stash of bed linens.

SEE.......
While the saying goes "our eyes are the windows to our souls" I also do believe we feed our souls through our eyes and other senses. While design is subjective whatever causes the "ahhh" in us is what is beauty.

Beauty for a guest bed never needs to be compromised.

SENSES.......
Nothing compares the natural fragrances and freshness of the outside.
I am always making the inside, outside wherever possible.

The touch of the ocean breeze.
The seeing of the oceans foreverness.
The sound of the surf.
The sense of the ocean air and fresh everything.

SOUND.......
Peace is my life's biggest challenge. So much noise everywhere
And sleep and noise don't share space well.
The Pachabel suite SOFTLY played is my put to sleep music when the outside won't stay outside.

Much of what is here is from my Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic world or Simply Shabby Chic at Target.

Big Bummer to Yummy

2010-02-01T17:10:00.000-08:00

It is exactly one year ago that the world of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic crumbled, for a while. You have all followed the journey and been part of our new beginnings.

Our Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture stores are open in New York and Los Angeles. Simply Shabby Chic treasures continues to be sold at Target.

And now, my dream of bringing a Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture store to my home country, was realized last week. The final few days to get the doors open were filled with the usual challenges, from trains being cancelled and London pickpockets to say the least.

We have a wonderful upholsterer who has painstakingly worked through all our high standards and aesthetics so the brand has the same qualities as it does in our U.S. store.

Other than upholstery most of our other inventory has been shipped from America to London. We endured quite a few delays due to record snow falls in England.

However, what I think is going to be wonderful is the unique treasures that I can bring from my English explorations to Los Angleles and New York and the treasures I can bring from the U.S. to London. There are still things that are unique to different countries.

Art is still a lovely way to bring true cultural uniqueness into decor.
Portraits, landscapes and flowers are typical subjects for artists and bring such lovely diversity from location to location.

I stumbled across a box filled with sketch books at a local London Fleamarket. It was so cold my fingers were frozen and I fear I didn't get all there was. So I will go back in next month and see what I missed. These sketchbooks are true treasures. Someone elses passion to practice their art. As cold as I was, I was captivated with the studies.

As lovely as these treasures are, all goes wasted without the right lighting. This isn't as easy to send country to country due to wiring. We found a wonderful patient electrician who sorted out our "mixed wires."

This week I will take lots of lovely photos of the complete store, but just a few little moments of texture and invitingness for our english guests to enjoy.

My eyes have been fed well this week. So much inspiration to bring to projects not yet designed. I am learning more and more that it is our down time as artists that allow us to create magic when we create.

These times of creative inspiration for me feed my eyes and soul and fill me up to start again...

(Ladelle my thoughts are with you)

Just thinking...

2010-01-13T08:04:00.000-08:00

As this new year of 2010 unfolds I find myself still in a thoughtful frame of mind.

I am wanting to be cautious, to make decisions wisely so as to live a life with a peaceful mind and have a positive effect on others.

Was thinking how grateful I am to have open roads in front of me.

I have great appreciation that having freedom is a privilege. It comes with hard work, but it also comes with a price. Sometimes freedom comes from detachment. "Up in the Air" movie was a profound example of freedom.

Pathways and roads of course usually lead to doorways.

With travel as it is it is getting harder and harder to stay in the mindset of "the journey". But I do try. I so very value how my work and spirit takes me to different places. To me life's best school is travel. I still feel such a novice and I hope to challenge my curiosity this coming year.

Another movie night watching "Into the Wild," was such a great reminder of life's experiences and opportunities. Don't think I will ever quite live life in the wild, but we all have our little versions of "adventure". Just a road we don't know where it leads to is plenty.

Amongst all these big thoughts of adventure my mind flutters to more gratitude... that of just being grateful for pink.

And then from the comfort of pink my mind rests on love. The heartache and joys, but all good. Real life. For at the end, no adventure or color is an experience, without love.

Love can of course come in many different ways. I think its how we are open to give and receive is what is important.

And then a table ready for those special people in my life.

A mixture of linen tablecloths and curtain panels layered, create a lovely stage for vintage glassware and cutlery. Had to squeeze in a bench in place of chairs for a few extra friends.

And as I end this post.... I am in London.

I am in London preparing to open a little store in Notting Hill. (Another favourite movie).

Until...

The Year Ahead

2009-12-22T07:52:00.000-08:00

I had every intention to write a yummy Christmas or holiday post. But the moment I had a moment I found myself without words.

As this time of year does for many, I needed to absorb the events of 2009. The saying of not knowing where we are going without really understanding where we have been prompted me to reflect where I had been. So that the adventures of 2010 could begin.

2009 turned out to be a year where I connected my heart to my head.
Such a short space but a long, sometimes painful and frustrating journey.

For most of my life both functioned very well but not always side by side.
It has been my year where I have had many lessons that have lead up to me having clarity of the true meaning of faith, pride, humility, strength, truth, trust, and compassion. With the clarity of these emotions I had to change some behaviors of mine.

All the years before that I have thought I could and should make the impossibles happen, or even what shouldn't happen, happen. I finally grasped that life does have its own course regardless of my will.

And my role is to show up, do what I know is the right thing to do, and to trust and accept the outcome will be what is right.

Shabby Chic has been my home to create romance, beauty and magic in my life.

Vignettes in my stores are moments of fantasy that can be transported into our real lives and homes. I find myself appreciating how vital the importance of feeding our eyes and souls with beauty and comfort.

I have always looked at theatre for my inspiration. For handmade details and unique palette. but the notion of a mask is one I profoundly connect with. Something we all need, from time to time.

With so much reality entertainment, HD quality TV and twittering instant news as it happens, the quality of fantasy through an old leather bound book or an imperfect grainy movie has been compromised for making things too real. Magic and dreams are being lost. We must keep our shabby world imperfect.

Sometimes in 2009 I have felt a profound sadness.
Sometimes loss.

Sometimes fear.
Sometimes really tired.
And this has lead me to surrender. And in doing so I have found the time for gentle gratitude.

Through everything. The one constant, is always to dream.

"To those who can dream, there is no such place as far away".
I included this quote in my latest book.

Happiness and Laughter

2009-12-04T15:05:00.000-08:00

This past month simply flew by.

I have been criss-crossing California on my book tour. From Orange County to San Diego to Santa Barbara to San Francisco.

Virtually every event went hours longer than planned. Meeting and talking to 100's of Shabby Chic people. It was a lovely experience for me and I thank all who came. And all the lovely little gifts I was given.

I drove from county to county so I could also do some antiquing. And I came back with a wonderful load of treasures each time.

I have been driving the highways from antique malls to antique stores for years. I love everything about a road trip. Gives me a chance to listen to music while I drive through farmlands and lovely little American towns. It's pure joy for me.

I feel myself prioritizing choices and re-evaluating what is important to me.

And I find in both my personal and business life it is the quality, the little details that I am protecting. The bigger picture of life isn't my focus at the moment. I am finding the quiet unsung heroes in my life most important. The little authentic things are the basis of my relationships and Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture.

I am finding that my customer is really wanting to be educated by how my sofas are built. Many elements go into creating these mushy, comfy, customized, bespoke heirlooms. The little tacks have just an important a job and the big strong coils. Customers are appreciating knowing these pieces can be passed onto their children. From an aesthetic and quality standpoint they are timeless and classic.

Not all people are looking for big items. But they are taking the time in my shop to discover the little quiet details too. I buy these broaches and use them for napkin or tablecloth adornments. This is my Marie Antoinette moment. So affordable but priceless

Getting back to this part of my world is pure joy and giggles. It's the romance of my life. My imagination is endless and forever evolving. And once again, my stores in Los Angeles and New York has all the yumminess. Click to stores.

While white anything is always a favourite, playing with dyes is so satisfying. Teals, dusty pinks and neutrals are my colors of choice right now.

With so many ruffles the dye came out a little irregular but adds to the character. Perfect platform for my new dinnerware of plates with crowns and little Fleur de Lys. All very subtle and quiet but makes such a statement.

Throughout all the uncertainties and changes this year, flowers kept blooming, growing and spreading their fragrance. And reminding me of patience and law of nature and life. So many metaphors.

During the time my business was shut down, I reflected and imagined how things might be different in the future. A richer palette that I consider more mature and mellow found a place in my designing. A velvet illusion with rough dark woods seemed to continue my Shabby Chic design philosophy.

My understanding of why everything had to turn out the way it did has given me such an insight to faith. And from faith there is a key to pure joy. That in the end, if we do what we are supposed to be doing, in the way our path leads us, laughter is easy. And its lovely.

Bucket List (Jack Nicholson & Morgan Freeman)

2009-10-24T20:03:00.000-07:00

There is truly much to write of the past few weeks events.

New York opening party and book launch, hosted by Target.

Writing my book was the easy part for me. Flying in the unfriendly skies to attend my book signings was my challenge and avoiding elevators, picking onion and garlic out of my food makes for travel to be exhausting for me and my companions.

The response from the a beautiful two page article in the New York Times has been global and extraordinary...Penelope Green, the journalist, captured our whole twenty years.

I can't help but grasp that it is way more than products that connect us all in this Shabby Chic world. I have been touched and humbled by every single person I have met these past few weeks.

My mothers anniversary of leaving was a few days ago.

And a common thought it seems when some form of life ends is "how do we affect the world during our time here". For me to inspire is a value important to me. But one we cannot contrive.

One lady I met in Vero Beach, Florida at my book signing held my hand and she said that I was on her "bucket list," and thanked me. That's a fairly monumental compliment and moment in my life. At times I have not escaped feeling dismissed from peoples lives, so this was an honor.

And it got me thinking of my bucket list.

When I left the book signing there was a double rainbow outside. That was an extraordinary sign.

One thing that stood out to me from my signings was what a community that we have created. For me it manifested in some profound products we have in our stores. Beautiful illustrations by Lisa Mann Dirkes. An amazing lady with her own story to be told.

My Vintage finds are of huge value in my aesthetic and quality of my stores.

I am convinced our eyes and soul need authentic beauty, of which there is much. There is sadly much ugliness too. And far too much noise. Just taking up space in our ears.

For sure price point is not my focus, but value is.

And then we proudly partner with Target for affordability and I also share my fleamarket tips for others to do themselves to attempt to counterbalance my whole Shabby Chic world.

My stores are now my canvas and art and the fact that I was a choice on one persons bucket list has raised by bench mark of my art, to be worthy of such.

Inspiration to me is simply a key we find to help us see what is inside ourselves.
So if the inspiration is authentic and eyes, ears and hearts are open we are all bucket lists for each other.

How lucky we found each other through prettiness.

And I will continue to bring what I have, for all to share. Whether a flower, a meaning or just a new understanding of my lessons. And I will be open to your stories and lessons too.

We will have a huge big Shabby Chic bucket, and we will collectively make the world a more beautiful nest, for our time here.

(Just leave the garlic and onions out of mine and give me wings so I don't need an elevator, or a plane.)

OLD FAVOURITES BACK

2009-10-19T13:28:00.000-07:00

I have been a busy bee at store openings and book signings. Meeting so many lovely precious, you's.

At the same time some of our old favourites have come back into our shops.

An Australian blog comment posted gushed...
"Be still my heart!!! My (Mr) Darcy is back." (Pride and Prejudice) -Jane Austin).

There has been such an outcry for our oversized lovely leather furniture. A perfect companion to our slipcovered and vintage furniture.

Please forgive me for the last few blogs becoming so producty.
We are working on our website, but until then so many of you have been requesting to see product. Somehow. So my blog is my vehicle. But within the next couple weeks my blog will get back to blogging.

I have been overwhelmed by store events at my stores and others, with little time to write, but you are all always on my mind, with gratitude.

My Diary 9/17/09 - 10/4/09

2009-10-08T11:31:00.000-07:00

The last few weeks has taken me from coast to coast and then across the Atlantic.

While in NY I filmed an online commercial for Target.

I loved the concept of combining products from Target, (my own brand of Simply Shabby Chic and other Target Brands) and vintage elements, from my cupboard of treasures.

It was easy to create a beautiful ensemble. My favorite was a set of bud vases from Target sprinkled on a festive table with rose spays, and layering my favorite Simply Shabby Chic white dinnerware set into some hand dyed vintage tablecloths from my personal collection. The satisfying part of the project was the affordability of the creation.

The philosophy of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic® Couture is bespoke, handmade with careful attention to labor intensive details and quality.

My machine washable slipcovered furniture, tables and bedding are mainly made in Europe or the US. Packaging is inspired from european years gone by. (no plastic). These qualities create products that become heirlooms and the price reflects these qualities.

However I always like to counter balance with affordable elements, and I always try and share my process of finding treasures so that if you want to combine any of my products from Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture, Simply Shabby Chic and your own found treasures, they all live comfortably together.

In my book Rachel Ashwell Fleamarket Treaures I share...

1. A map of one of my favourite shopping route
2. What to buy
3. How to restore
4. Decorative ideas of how to use.

Fleamarketing is one of my biggest joys in life. But it is hard work to pull it all together. Getting up early, schlepping, restoring. That's what brings soul to these treasures, whether my own or yours.

Target is another opportunity to show how to blend affordable products into a high end luxury brand.

It is important to me to always combine a diverse range of affordability and styles when I put together a room.

A lavish mushy sofa that will last and last and last sits comfortably with a fleamarket crumbly chandelier.

After my New York time I went to London for the launch of my book and the opening of my little teeny space in Selfridges. (a lovely department store).

I was able once again to demonstrate how to blend my sofas with some fleamarket finds. truly the shabby with the chic.

A lovely group of English people came to my book event. Many from Australia too. My book hovers from #1 to #3 on amazon.com in its category. and while I am very proud of the aesthetics of the book, a couple of times my eyes welled up when it was clear people are reading my book, therefore getting a true picture of the value of my treasures in life.

A new friend Geraldine took me to a fleamarket outside of London. Funny the similarities in product and people of fleamarkets worldwide.

I could have easily been in Roundtop Texas, except for the "have a nice day" of Texas is replaced with "ta ta for now"...I did find some beautiful vintage textiles, delicious.

In between all of this I did a live radio interview to be aired in NY. That was nerve racking as no edit button.

I spent time with my dad and got my daughter settled into her new apartment for her new year at college.

A lot to juggle but a lot to savour too.

My next focus is to make sure I make the time to experience all that I experience, when life speeds up sometimes I read books and don't absorb, I spend time with people but I'm already gone, I eat but don't taste, I sleep but wake up tired, I live but I'm not fully there.

Answering questions for the interviews regarding my book or opening of stores is helpful for me to truly process in my mind, all that happened and possibly why. At the top of my acceptance is faith.

I know I must show up in my own life, that my thoughts are as vital as my words
Dignity and humility continue to be important characteristics for me to stand by. But I cannot make everything ok. Somethings will stay broken. Not everyone will be happy with my decisions. But I will do my best to do the right thing.

After the losses and unraveling of the past year I had many lessons and now my test is to slow down and savour. And for me most importantly to get out of my head and not worry about all that may happen. With lives moving so fast and so much going on and around us, there is certainly much to worry about.

But I am going to try and learn the craft of worrying when there is a problem, until then enjoy what "is".

(There was a great episode of Greys Anatomy last week about worrying. So much in our head, that never even materializes).

The next few weeks I will be on the road, signing and talking and listening. Meeting as many of you as possible.

I will be present for every moment as moments like these don't come along very often.

I will be adding more and more photos of products online, but until then many of you have requested a clear photo of our illustrated brochure. Next week there will be lots more photos of products.

Bright Lights, Big City

2009-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

On Saturday the 20th our new home for Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture
opened at 117 Mercer Street New York.

It was virtually 20 years to the day that I was unpacking boxes in the
original Soho location, just a couple blocks away on Green Street.

This new location is smaller and parred down from our previous location
but actually quite similar to the original.

I am proud to say all of our slipcovered furniture, tables and bedding
are made in the USA. All of our vintage pieces are recycled from another
era, and none of our bedding is packaged in plastic.

Having to pare down our selection forces me to edit and edit.

While I have always had an appreciation for all products sold in
Shabby Chic stores, editing in this way has caused me to just be
left with a few chosen items that are completely my world.

The combination of this edgy fresh extension table along with the relaxed
slips of the dining chairs is everything that makes for magic, to me.

Working with local artists allows me to create product without any
compromise of design.

Product development is easy when its a car drive away.

In the case of this table I wanted the base to really take on
an authentic old paint . Not as easy as it sounds, but achieved.

And we can make it in any size, that's a treat.

Another local artisan, who is also able to produce any size.

I always like the flexibility of an extension table, but some
people prefer a fixed version.

Slipcovered sofas and chairs have always been the core of my business,
and always will be. Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture is able to do
anything when it comes to slipcovers, cushions and custom sizes.

However I have spent hours and hours and hours, coming up with what I
think is the perfect of the perfect, in relation to comfort,
beauty and function.

Every slipcover is under the scrutiny of Denise, our production manager.

The subtle details of welts and the draping of fabric have all been
carefully decided upon, and so too has the mush of the cushions.
That's not to say we can't tighten the slipcovers, firm up the cushions
and change the details to specifications.

But, the results of the furniture on our show room floor is based on my
idea of perfection.

When I first started my company 20 years ago, white denim slip covers were the uniform in my house, as with sticky toddlers fingers, white denim is the most easily bleached fabric.

Now that my children have grown I now enjoy our grain linen slipcovers.

Still totally inviting and the more crumpled the better, like an old favorite suit.

Even though solid neutrals are the basis for most of our slipcovers,
sometimes we step outside, a stripe is often a friendly substitute.

Knowing that some surroundings need slightly more formal furniture,
the Portobello collection sits well here.

Even thought classic and traditional often evokes old fashioned, modern fits
into our array too, so long as it's classic, modern and comfy.

My original concept of design was always children friendly.

Oversized furniture always inviting for snuggle time for my children and I.

Many memories have been collected snuggled into cushions or feet dangling, ever concerned with upholstery getting grubby.

Talking of sleep....

For many years my stores have had a vast array of bedding contained in what we all called our "bedding wall"'

In my redesigning and editing of our collections I believe we still have all that is needed to create the perfectly imperfect Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture bed.

There could never be Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture without white and ruffles.

And not forgetting my roots, our union jack pillow is back,
with a new mix of fabrics.

I know you all miss viewing our products on our website.

I thought this would be some way to show you some of the loveliness
that are in the Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic stores.

Of course there are many more designs of our machine washable slipcovered
furniture, lovely, lovely twinkly lighting, candles and accessories.
And then there are our one of a kind vintage treasures of tables, cabinets,
mirrors and art. Handpicked by me through the flea markets. If you can't make
it into our stores the lovely girls would be happy to take photos for you if
you call and and tell them what you would like to see.

P.S. Darcy and August chairs will be back next week.

I have started my book signings now and will be at my Santa Monica,
California store October 8th. look forward to meeting you there.

Thank you for all your lovely comments about my book. I am glad you are capturing the essence of my words.

Turning On The Lights

2009-09-14T10:03:00.000-07:00

On Saturday September 12th the lights went on and the doors reopened on my Shabby Chic store in Santa Monica, California. Making this happen was a team effort of a few people who believed Shabby Chic had to return.

The handpainted sign of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture was completed on Sunday.

I am focusing on authentic workmanship of days gone by. Hard to come by in today's world of automated machine made products.

Not one ruffle, not one crystal drop or turned wood leg goes by my eyes without scrutiny.

Most of the products in the store are manufactured by local craftsmen enabling us to offer custom options and paying close attention to every quality and detail.

Over the past few months when I had no idea of the future, myself and my teeny team continued the make magic with my finds. Even undeveloped I would walk into my studio and just love the colors and textures and I knew one day they would find their home.

Honoring my original concept, of creating heirlooms, every piece of fabric, cushion or slipcover is touched by human hand and perfected.

Our new catalogue is illustrated by an artist and feels humble and soulful. Initially a temporary solution until we have photographed our collection. But I love the authentic handmanship.

There is so much to share with you on the journey to now. I hope to meet with you if you pop by my Santa Monica or New York store.
Or perhaps at one of my book signings.
The first of which is October 1st in london. My dad is excited to attend. (They are all listed under book signings on my website).

I am hearing my book is selling fast. If you want a signed copy my stores are well stocked.

I so look forward to meeting every one of you.

Truly with the greatest appreciation to you all for standing by me.

Spontaneous Summer Supper

2009-08-18T16:00:00.000-07:00

On a Wednesday night a couple of weeks ago I decided to have friends
over for dinner. The beauty of having yummy mismatched dinnerware and
glassware is it allows for festivities for all occasions. Easily dressed
up or down. I did partial takeout delivery and part cooked so it had the
illusion of a home prepared meal. (Although I fessed up when asked).

My garden seems ridiculously happy.

Flowers and ground cover that was supposed to be a few inches tall
became several feet. All that talking out loud to myself these past
months I think was interpreted that I was talking to my garden.

Inside and outside, my house lends itself to lots of clustered seating.

Even with a spontaneous feast, place cards make a personal touch.

Endless mismatched glassware and plates.

I always buy an abundance of little white votives.
Luxurious and affordable.

Even with the party over, nothing is an eyesore.

At the end of the day, having friends over and being able to enjoy all is really better than any fancy restaurant.

The summer draws to a close and I can start expecting the leaves
to change and the chill in the air.

The Greatest Gift

2009-08-10T08:45:00.000-07:00

I will keep private how and why I landed up on a path this week
unexpectedly and unplanned.

It was path that I never thought would personally be my journey.
But I have a sense it is the final chapter for me to start my new chapter.

I have been a responsible single mum and business owner for 20 years
and with all the events of the past months I thought I had clarity
on how and why.... things turned out the way they did.

One of my favorite books I used to read my kids was the missing piece.

I appreciated the notion that sometimes it feels better to be incomplete.
In the same way I have embraced the beauty of imperfection.
However, my journey this week taught me there are some fundamental pieces
that have to be found.

-Were words that changed my life this week.
I learned to understand it can apply to anything in our lives.
I have realized that much as though I love Shabby Chic and much as though
I love my children my exterior passions have also allowed me to avoid my
own inner peace and strengths in some respects.

On one level I have manifested beautiful children and
a beautiful aesthetic but I have clipped their wings due my fears.

Once again I have been graced with a gift that as my children become
adults and Shabby Chic finds its new form, I have learned to understand
I have given them roots and wings, and now I can let go and discover my
piece and peace.

The Quiet Car

2009-07-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

Last week I took the train from Penn Station in NY to Springfield MA for
Brimfield Antique Show. Before I got on the train I made sure my phone
and blackberry were fully charged so I could use my time productively on the
train.I so much prefer to travel on the ground more than flying. In fact I'm
actually a fearful flyer and am usually frozen with fear at airports and
on planes. That's probably why there was once a comment written by someone
who said I seemed "entitled and snobby" at the airport, I was probably
asking the poor check in assistant 100 times if she thought we would be safe.

I settled into my train seat, so happy that I was to be on a journey that
didn't include the "unfriendly skies", blackberry and phone at hand.

Before the train left the station a voice from nowhere announced "If you
can hear my voice you have chosen the QUIET CAR. That means no cell phones,
no loud conversation." How happy was I that a power more sensible than myself
took control. Instead of an irritating knot in stomach journey, I enjoyed 3
hours of a peaceful journey, chugging along viewing the scenery of Connecticut.
I arrived in Brimfield at 3pm well rested. July is the quietest of the three Brimfield shows.

My treasure hunting was planned with a couple of friends, and also
with an associate who is planning the launch of my new book
signing at Selfridges in London.

Joining me as well was a lovely lady who owns the fabulous
store Geminola in the West Village.

We became fast friends, with the common thread of loving the search for
treasures. It didn't take long for the conversations to transpire while
we lived together for a few days in the "flea market bubble".
From 6am we searched for treasures followed by dinners where we
searched our souls with conversations that easily flow when you find
yourself away from home, with minds that think alike.
There was giggly laughter as we reached exhaustion.

Our group all had an appreciation for the imperfect and the
imagination to recycle a new life for things that have soul but got
discarded along the way. I wasn't looking for anything specific.
Just some magic.

I managed to avoid the porto potties as I found a secret loo.

My eyes edited carefully, and as always metaphors stopped me in my tracks.
I came across 3 chairs for $50. Not bad, until the seller pointed out,
"One of the chairs has some issues". The chairs issues were hidden under a
blanket. In my mind I calculated the price fore 3 chairs was fair, but if
the chair "with issues" was of no use, the two remaining was. Not such a
good deal.I respectfully lifted the blanket to reveal what were the issues,
only to find a wooden spoke was coming undone and just needed some glue.
I associated immediately with the concept of "coming undone", and just
needing some tender loving care. I bought all three chairs.

One afternoon I felt a little sleepy. I observed the sensibility of dog.

and I thought "why not?". I found a tree for shade and did the same thing.

It reminded me of my favorite book I used to read my children.

My journey of the "quiet car" ended with the shade of a tree.
I think we are back to "better than normal".

For book events please see Shabbychic.com and click on the book signing events tab.

My Normal

2009-06-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

Finally I am truly happy to post confirmed dates of my book signing
tour. Due to one hundred thousand things going on in my life, and my
desire to meet as many of you as possible I will keep adding dates over
the next few months.
Let me know where you all are. Even though I can't get to every nook
and cranny of the world, I will try and make some central stops and
consolidate locations to meet as many of you as possible.
I am so very much looking forward to thanking as many of you in person
for supporting me these past months.
This blogging world has been a wonderful tool, and twittering will be
next. But never a replacement for the real thing, of meeting in person..

The process of this book will always be my personal reminder of events
that happened during various days of shooting.
Many tears were shed shooting the cover and my poor photographer had to
make magic with my puffy red eyes. I have quite a variety of terrible jokes
that were an attempts to make me laugh. Through it all I am thrilled with
the evolution of my designs captured in the photos. My writing and thoughts
during these days were very articulate. Not that I wrote about my dramas.
(that's another book) but being raw forces clear thinking, no fluff to get sidetracked with.

More proof my "my normal" coming back is I will head to Brimfield next week.

Its been just a little too long that I haven't gotten up in the dark and
cold, and met my travel companions to trundle off to search for
treasures.

Trying not to consume too many beverages as to avoid the
porta potties and eating Dunkin' Donuts for breakfast, such a delicious
no no. All the while still getting the excited feeling of butterflies in
my stomach as I approach the possible finds of the day.

So I am not sure what my purpose of shopping will be. For 20 years I had
a specific purpose... I just need to get out in the fields and I
will work out why I am there.

I continue to build my vision on my new day, when I will get back to "my
normal " life wherever and however that may be.

Ideas creep into my dreams late at night, as my days are still yucky
with paperwork. But my true "normal" knows to find a way to let what I
love come into my mind, even it I am sleeping.
I know the nights when have had the dreams, as the next day my creativity
is on fire.

I left London and I finished packing up dad's house.
It felt sad leaving my mums tiny garden behind. She loved it very much.
I cut one final display of roses. She would have been proud.

The flat dad purchased shares communal gardens with a beautiful
English church, and I discovered that the church actually the owns
of the freehold of dad's new flat.

So truly feel he is in gods home, I feel very good about that.
I feel lucky to have spent a few days in the beach at Malibu.
There is something in "my normal" about being here.
Even though I am an English city girl at heart, the rhythm of the
waves, reconnects me to "my normal", as for sure I have had days of
being out of rhythm. That's for sure.

It's really amazing as crazy as life gets for us all,
the rhythm of nature, seasons, the timing of waves, the sun and moon,
grounds us all, as long as we pay attention, and connect we can then
keep all of our "normals".
That's a good thing.

Please keep an eye on book events
which are listed on my website. I
would love to meet you all, if you
are able to come to any of the dates.

Selfridges & Co.
Oxford St. London W1C, UK
Thursday October 1rst 6:15 - 7:15pm

Lillian August
32 Knight St. Norwalk, CT
Wednesday October 14th 10:00am - noon

Greenwich Garden Education Center, Cos Cob, CT
Thursday October 15th 10:00am - noon

Upper East Side Barnes & Noble Superstore
86th St. and 3rd. Ave, NYC
Friday October 16th 7:00 - 8:30pm

Books & Books
265 Aragon Ave. Coral Gables, FL
Tuesday October 20th 8:00 - 9:30pm

Blue Springs Home
369 E. 17th St., #23, Costa Mesa, CA
Friday October 24th 2:00 - 4:00pm

Diesal Books
3898 Cross Creek Rd, Malibu, CA
Sunday October 25th 3:00 - 4:30pm

Rachel Ashwell Moving and Storage........

2009-06-15T09:46:00.000-07:00

I have been in London the past couple of weeks, editing,
packing, throwing away, donating and auctioning the contents
of my dad and mums house. Mum and dad lived in this four story
skinny house for thirty years.

Now that my mum is no longer here, my dad decided he wanted to
move into something quite a lot smaller. However, this has been
quite a challenge to consolidate a biggish house of contents
into a little apartment due to a combination of my mums many
hobbies, my dads near obsession with books, and them both not
wanting to part with anything for many years.

And at the same time of this project my daughters college year
has ended so it has been time to pack her up and decide what will
come back to Los Angeles for the summer and what can stay packed
and stored in London.
So- I have become very familiar with trash bags, tape and labels,
boxes, storage companies, auction houses, and charities.

I have never been much of a hoarder. I buy things very selectively
and either use until worn out or, if not used enough, I am good at
cutting my losses and giving away before the dust builds.
And as I have mentioned I have confined my stuff to a "forever
to keep chest of drawers".

These past couple of weeks I have had the job to judge what has
value to keep, and what must be let go. This entire process has
given me many opportunities to wonder about the emotional and
financial value of "stuff."
The cliche of "one mans junk is another mans treasure" has been
words I have understood in the flea market world.
But for the most part the packing of my parents home(other than a
few rare books, antique dolls) most of the treasures that I have
been handling have been very personal.

Once again a reminder to me that a house becomes a home when
life happens and memories are made.
My parents house is full of evidence of a life of interests
wonderfully researched with beautiful sketches, careful
handwritten notes.Paint brushes and paints, piano music with
notes of study, white feathers gathered (representing angels).

A sewing box with needles already threaded.
A beautiful tapestry, nearly finished.

Recipe books with pages stuck together from dripping sauces.
Dog eared books, read and reread.

Boxes and boxes and box of photographs. So much fun to once
again look through.

War medals from my mums father, carefully packed away.

Every letter and card myself, my sister, or my kids had every
written to our parents, wrapped up in paper bags. Years and years
and years of them. For sure never viewed for the longest time.

Perhaps they are just being stored for exactly the purpose they
served this week, one of bringing to color the memory of family,
life, sharing of experiences. Not hallmark moments but good bench
marks that even from afar, we kept in touch. Forever. Until that
forever ended. But then dovetailed into a new forever.

I must make sure I become a bit more of a hoarder
so I continue the forever.

So even though I thought my job of clearing would be dreadful and
quick, I have once again delayed my flight home, to relive the memories.

Funny in the end, the things that will gain some financial rewards
through auction might become the other mans treasures, but I have
boxes and boxes of what might seem to be junk, but to me a pot of gold.

Next stop, to pack up my sons things in new york and find him a
new apartment. Here I go again with my tape and boxes..
Wish the tape weren't brown and the marker black and the boxes so ugly.
Rachel Ashwell Moving and Storage......

To all my loyal customers:
As you all know Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic had closed its doors on
all retail, for now. All of our manufacturing is shut down.
There are some websites who continue to represent they are carrying
my product. In some cases this is authentic product that was purchased
through my company before we closed our factories.
However there are websites who are claiming they can have our exact furniture copied. Please be aware this is unauthorized and any products that are being manufactured now using the trademark of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic are not authentic, therefore fake.
Please be careful of misleading marketing. For those of you who have the real
thing, please enjoy. For those of you who don't, I ask you don't support people trying to deceive, and hurt many in the process.
Thank you. Rachel.

Rest, Restore, Reinvent.

2009-06-04T15:56:00.000-07:00

I have been very neglectful in writing this past month.
It is not that much hasn’t happened...

My son arrived back from college, being a mum is such a gift. Although with a 20 year old I have learnt to do so in an unobtrusive way.
My first Shabby Chic store closed on May 30th, 2009.
Exactly 20 years after it opened. That was a tough day.
My garden blossomed, my lavender is 3 feet tall cascading down my front path. Fat floppy roses so happy to be smelled.

I compiled a scrap book of the vision of my dreams. Seems writers have to write, painters have to paint, and for no specific purpose, I have to design.
To my eyes I think I have compiled my best and most complete story. When the time is right, it will find its place to be revealed.
The world does seem rather quiet.
I think that our inner wiring has forever been changed. Apart from the necessities, I don’t think that we will ever consume as we have done in the past. We are adjusting to not thinking too far ahead of ourselves.
Tomorrow is plenty far away. That makes today a lot more important. But now is where we are. For the first time in my adult life, I have no specific structure. Being Jake and Lilys mum and the Shabby Chic lady has kept me very scheduled, even though I will
always be that person. I am not needed so much. So now I get to be Rachel Ashwell. hmmmm. yikes...
So I will write soon, better, more regularly because I like our connection.
My warm thoughts to you all. Enjoy your kids coming back from college, enjoy your gardens. Enjoy being you.
I’m popping to London to help move my father and then my treat will be Brimfield, but that is way past tomorrow.

"BARNS BURNT DOWN, NOW I CAN SEE THE MOON"

2009-04-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

I just returned home from London and I was greeted by a beautiful
package from one of my employees from my Newport store in California,
Lisa Dirkes. Inside the package there was a lovely book that inspired me
through my jet lagged sleep, and 2 gorgeous watercolor sketches.
The talent enclosed was amazing.

There is so much I have to discover about the lives of people who
have crossed my path through the journey of Shabby Chic.
Creativity, deep thinkers and seekers seem to be a common thread
between us all. Pink, lace and frill may be sweet and pretty,
but we are a group of substance.

Portobello Road was on my doorstep for the past few weeks during my
stay in London. Portobello Road is a lovely little quiet street,
with pastel painted houses and old store fronts.

But on Saturdays, the street is transformed. It becomes an antique heaven.
Street stalls mainly selling jewelry, paintings, clothes, glassware, books and accessories line the street. Thousands of people from all over the world crowd together and enjoy the treasures.

Record players play crackled old time music.
Yummy smelling crepes which I call "confused pancakes"
have Nutella and strawberries. My daughter loves them.
Cameras click away. A few times I was asked, "Where is the book
store from Nottinghillgate movie". I learnt where it was.
I listened to many stories vendors insisted upon sharing.
I was fascinated by an old jam jar and asked some questions of the vendor
who looked a little like Santa Clause. I asked him if he was going to be
at the same spot the following week in case I came back.
He proceeded to give me his life story, and how he had only not been at
his spot twice in 40 years. He then showed me a torn piece of
newspaper from his back pocket, with a photo of a " James Bond girl".
He told me had dated her for 6 days 30 years ago . Many stories to tell.
I have learnt to build in story listening time into my treasure search.

I started buying some treasures, lovely broaches, fabric and linens with
no real purpose. I am starting to feel my creative juices flowing,
actually exploding. My creativity cannot be kept inside and it is starting
to express itself.

Unlike many, I love the weather in London. The rhythm of the seasons suits my personality best. I appreciate every "weather" for I know it will change.

Along with the structure of working and completing my book,
I had daily walks/runs through Kensington Gardens.
Its rather lovely returning to my roots as a tourist. I explored
London like I never did when I lived there. Kensington Garndens is heavenly.

It joins Hyde Park to Kensington to Nottinghill, connected by pathways.
I spent hours sitting by the pond where the "Queen's Swans" live.
They are magnificent . I had my ipod with me and listened to classical
music as I watched them float around, so proudly.
Some days I cried, some I laughed.
The park is very historical and dates back hundreds of years many kings
and queens lived there, including queen Victoria.

I watched many group sports, cricket and football and many picnics. The minute even a little bit of sun comes out, the British strip down, men take off their tops and take in the rays, quickly, before the rain.

I found myself interested in everything and everyone. I chatted to the English cabbies, ("Hackney Carriage" drivers).
I learnt all about "The Knowledge". This is a four year study program that all English cab drivers need to undertake before they can drive a cab. There are
25,000 streets and places of interest that they need to learn, by driving around
on a motorbike with a clip board for 4 years. I asked if GPS systems have
made that not a necessity anymore and was told that nothing can out beat human "knowledge". English cabs and their drivers are wonderful.

A big treat for me is the Electric Cinema. This is a theatre from the Soho House team of hotels that are mainly throughout England and NY too. The Cinema is lovely and old with plaster swags of wreaths and roses. Sitting in big mushy leather chairs with footstools, and you can order "bangers and mash" and a drink. Bangers and mash are mash potatoes and sausages. Yummy.

SHABBY CHIC

2009-04-02T15:38:00.000-07:00

SHABBY CHIC

The name Shabby Chic was a perfect match for me from the very beginning.
I love and appreciate everything shabby as I do everything chic.

I have questioned over the years if it was due to my…….
not wanting to commit,
not wanting to stand behind what I believe in
not truly having an opinion.
Wanting to cover my bases.

But actually I have learnt I have a very strong opinion of appreciating
things for what they are, and for what they are not.

Once again your comments on my blog have been my source of inspiration.
Someone wrote a deeper explanation of Garth Brook's song,
“Sometimes gods greatest wishes are our unanswered prayers”.
She wrote, “Just because our prayers weren’t answered in the way we wanted,
it doesn't mean they weren’t answered”.

During these past few months I have tried to save Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic
stores in the way I thought was best for the company.

But it wasn't meant to be.
And still the future is uncertain.
But what is certain is that the sadness, loss and pain of this experience
to all has created the most extraordinary bond between me and all of you.
Faith has created the fuel to drive the train, and at some point the train
will be on the track.

I am not a practacing religious person. But I do have great faith.
And that is so comforting and freeing of fear.
Especially for a character like myself. So often I think I know
the answers and I put up a good fight.
But I have learnt the art of letting go and I am safe.
I just have to be quiet to hear the direction.

I am attracted to the opposites in life.
When I purchased this in Brimfield, Massachusetts a few eyeballs rolled.
But to me it was one more example of the rawness of a skull, with the
femininity of a parasol. All sharing the support of a chair.

While 99.9 percent of my employees, my vendors, my customers have been unwaveringly supportive, there have of course been a few that are enjoying my setback.

This past week my manufacturing plant has been selling off fabrics,
much of it of course is plain white.
Some are Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic floral prints.
Most of the buyers coming through have been sympathetic and nostalgic.
However some attempted to steal Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic tags and
labels so they can sell them an authentic Shabby Chic product.
This was disappointing to me.
This feels dirty.

But in the end again it reminded me, how honest and genuine
and pure thinking most people have been through this process.
People of no moral character are great reminders of the beauty of goodness.

While the fabric is of course Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic,
the products that they will be made into are not.
So for any of you who care whether you are buying authentic
Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic products, there will be some impostors for a while.

I have always wondered what if feels like being in the head of person
that copies. To me that is life as a destination without a journey.
Why would anyone want to create something that wasn’t their own heart
and soul?
Just for money I suppose.
That’s something I don’t understand.

While I love going into my stores and seeing the end results of the efforts of design, it is the process of design, reworking, rethinking that is the fuel.

I have always said mediocrity has no place in my world.
Unique and authentic are what I am attracted to.
That doesn’t mean a beautiful velvet floppy flower is less beautiful
than a beautiful rose…

But they are both the best they can be. No short cuts to create.

Unfortunate circumstances happened in the past two years that caused me to fall.
But for 18 years we were strong, surviving earthquakes, divorces, economic downturns. I do hope for anyone affected negatively will remember the years of strength and support Shabby Chic offered and supplied.

The biggest lessons of my life have been learnt this past year.
As I have said tears have been plenty, hearts hurt.
But my spirit is flying pretty high, trusting this is happening
the way it must.

I am in London at the moment. Writing and designing my book.
I take the bus to and from the publishers office.
I have always dreamed of the life of Jo from Little Women.

And even though I am not writing a novel,
the process feels very true to me.
The publisher's offices are modest but have the warmest of energy.
Funny how often people think of the English as snobby. That can be true.
But they are also humble, real and so very authentic.
And the best part is the kettle goes on for tea at 4p.m. sharp.
(Haven't had that since my lovely Carla left my Shabby Chic.)
That is what I am experiencing, every day.
I have a rented flat with no shower and only a washing machine for clothes.
That does seem to be British to have to dry clothes either on a washing line
or on a rack.

I have not felt so attached and involved in my day to day living for
such a long time.
And that is a gift for sure.
Life seems to be in Technicolor for me, with surround sound.
I am living in my life.

And without the risk of sounding schmaltzy, it is all because of you.
I am humbled that you thank me and love me for the beauty
that I have bought into your lives.
But your gift to me is far superior.

2009-03-09T08:49:00.001-07:00

THIS BLOG IS FOR YOU.

I write this blog to thank each and every one of you who have taken
the time to write over the past few months.
Your words of wisdom, words of encouragement, words of belief.
Words to the future where Rachel Ashwell and Shabby Chic has a home.

There have been many a night when I have come home and doubted
everything. Doubted my abilities, doubted my judgement, doubted me.
I even doubted some of your comments, but then i would read another,
and another, and another and decided that you can't all be wrong.

So I thank you for being my reality check.
That Shabby Chic did make a difference to the lives of many.
The beauty, the flowers, the pink, the white, the sparkle.
All part of the Shabby Chic world.

On this journey we have all been on together, I think we
all know home can be anywhere...it's in our hearts.
As I reflect back onto my career .... it's priceless.

Gathering treasures at the flea markets was always my core
of inspiration.

Popping into one of my stores was the time I was able to see
how all the avenues of my creativity come together.

Brainstorming in my design studio with my team is where we all
enjoyed exchanging ideas.

Travelling from China to Europe, developing new product, challenges
for sure, but adventures and dramas.

Shabby Chic has been the rhythm of my existence for twenty years.

My car is on auto pilot to my office my brain is always designing.
Wherever I go, I see beauty and possibilities in most anything.
I see ruffles and sparkles, color and patinas, floppy fabrics and
faded paintings.

Like us all I rip up magazines, see something in a film, a hotel room,
something by the side of the road.

And then I hear a song....

Music takes us all through so many stages in our lives..
My little nano ipod has been all over the world with me.

Glamorous lovely hotels, and less than nice places.
Music carries me.

To be able to identify feelings from songs, is so comforting.

The last few days, songs have found me,
giving me the words I have needed.

With the recent events with Shabby Chic, and the 5 month
mark of my mum leaving, there were many songs,
flowers and friends that have supported me, prayed for Shabby Chic..

Garth Brooks-
"Sometimes gods greatest wishes are our unanswered prayers."

(With all stores closing my prayers were not answered, and I
am so very sad. I do trust that one day I will understand why
things are happening the way they are.)

REM
"Everybody hurts"
(And yes it hurts... it hurts because I love my stores,
I love my employees, I love my artisan vendors, I love my customers,
and things are broken for the time being.)

Mat Kearney
"Breathe in breathe out"
(When I cannot think of anything else to do.)

In order to regroup I am having to let go.
No matter what you see happening, and however little,
faded and tattered I become, please know that it wont be
long before I come back.

Leonard Cohen.
"Cracks cracks everywhere, that's how the light gets in."

I will write soon.

Someone close to me had to leave,
my mum needed to leave and
all Shabby Chic Stores are dimming their lights.

But still I have the crown jewels.....
I have hundres of comments from all of you. I continue to print them all.
They are all so very special. Some have caused streams of tears, and small smiles.

The jewels sit safetly on a solid gold band .....for I have the knowledge
that my childrens character has been forever changed.
They have never experienced the world without Shabby. Its a beauty
and strength they assumed came with breathing. They have learnt the
fragility of everything. Consequently they understand life,
just a little bit more.......

An email to me from my daughter Lily-

"Morning Mama,
I just wanted to say I have been thinking all day about Shabby,
and I can't believe it. Its just so so sad. But I want you to know
that I am so proud of you. You have made such an amazing and beautiful
creation and while it is so sad that Shabby wont be around anymore,
nothing is forever, and its just time for Shabby to say goodbye.
It got us through these 20 years. You should be so proud of what you
have done and excited about whats next. Your so talented, kind and
hardworking. Me and jake, as always will be there to hold your hand
every step of the way.
Lots of Love, Lily"

For all Shabby Chic lovers- Simply Shabby Chic Collection at Target will continue the tradition of beauty, comfort and function.

Flowers

2009-03-02T10:04:00.001-08:00

March is upon us with spring around the corner, which of course means
flowers.

Like so many I have learnt to live and breathe in the space
of uncertainty. So many unanswered questions.

But spring flowers will still bloom and that is such a reassurance.
No matter what, they will visit us soon to give us
beauty and inspiration.

As I continue to shoot my new book, it is a rare photo that doesn't
involve flowers, either in their natural form, as a fabric that I
have designed or on a mirror.

What would the world look like if there never had been a flower?

As always I look for guidance and metaphors in life...

Some flowers are annuals, some perennials.

Wildflowers have always been a favourite of mine.
I love the idea of a beautiful flower blooming for a season
and then finding a new home for its next bloom.

Wherever it blooms its always just as beautiful, only in a different home.

Even though some flowers just have one season to make their mark,
they still leave behind memories, the same way some stores that we
prematurely had to close, will.

Chicago, Illinois
Natick, Massachusetts
Austin, Texas
Atlanta, Georgia
Corte Madera, California

As always, all employees worked with dignity till the end.
From the time they knew their time of employment was limited,
until the end, they closed the doors of Shabby Chic as gently
as possible.

Many customers were confused and concerned.
"Is ShabbyChic going away completely?"
"Why, what happened?"

Questions I cannot fully answer. But I know in my heart I am
doing everything possible to save as much as possible,
and the support of so many continues to fuel the engine.

All of your comments posted are heartwarming and enabling
me to clear my mind to reestablish my creativity.

My biggest fear is of letting the "business take that away."

But I wont let any of you down, in how I will pour my heart
into my new book.

Cracks make for character, and authentic character makes for soul.
I think you will all be pleased in the results.

Still some stores and e-commerce remain open, selling
floral inspired everythings, including our new sleepwear collection.

Song of inspiration this week is the Beatles "let it be" it helps.

Step by Step

2009-02-12T12:02:00.001-08:00

Two weeks behind us with our decision to file Shabby Chic into Chapter 11. The process of restructuring Shabby Chic is underway.
Since my last blog entry we have received over 200 comments of sorrow but also extra-ordinary support.

For someone who is used to a road of flea marketing, this road is complicated.
We are having to challenge our creative brains to process basic business understandings.

Many people are asking me questions...
When will everything be ok again?
What is the worst that can happen?
I am not really thinking about these thoughts.
Some people have disappointed me, but that emotion is pale in comparison with loyalty, genuine care and strength of character of so many.

Our Greenwich Avenue and East Hampton Stores have closed.
My staff were of such support to the end.

Both landlords are gentlemen.
They took the time to travel to meet me last week for tea.

They both expressed the sadness that we had to close down.
Their words were self-less and they shared with me their words of wisdom.
I will be touched forever.

And I will take their advice to heart.

The Shabby Chic Team at the corporate office spend every moment strategizing our turnaround.
There has been many a night we find ourselves sitting in my office, regrouping of the day’s events and discussing the following days agenda.
Often we don’t even notice the sun has gone down, and we are talking in the dark with the exception of the light source from my computer.

Sometimes in the wee hours of the night I have fears of the "what ifs".
But the cliché of "one step at the time", plays out perfectly here.
Each and every day there are goals and I simply focus on the present day.
I don’t use up my energy on the “what ifs”.

I have been spending some extra time in the stores and reminding myself how much I love what we sell and how much my customers appreciate the products in our stores.

Customers and vendors who have been caught in our situation are more concerned that we will make it though, than they are about their orders and that fuels the little engine of Shabby Chic.
The load is heavy, but we keep going.

I am happy to say I am finding the time to work on my next book, which will be available in the fall.
It is a perfect place to pour my heart and soul.
My raw feelings are bringing out pure creativity.

Bruce Springsteen’s latest hit, "Working on a Dream", inspires me.
We are all in this together, working on all our dreams.
Even though Shabby Chic is a reality, I am working on my dream of making Shabby Chic well again.
And as always, the best place to dream is in my Shabby Chic bed.

I have read every comment posted on the Shabby Chic blog.
I'm touched at how much belief you have in me and that in one way, shape or form, all will be ok.
I have printed out all your comments and put them in “my forever to keep” drawer. As to me they deserve the permanence of paper, without fear of being lost with a delete button.

Hazelnut Cottage comment on the Endurance Blog Entry: quoted on Tuesday February 2008…

"There is much guidance in what does not and cannot happen in my life as there is in what can and does - maybe more."
Parker Palmer

Shabby Chic is being guided with all that can happen from what cannot.

Endurance

2009-02-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

This is a blog I never in my wildest nightmares thought I would have to write.

Last Thursday evening Shabby Chic filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
Business has been hard for a while, but the notion that my beloved company would become as broken as it has was never a consideration for me.
I thought there would be other solutions. But with great sadness, in the end, it was the best choice of some very not nice choices.

What this means to me is an opportunity to try to restructure and save Shabby Chic.

Over the past couple of years we opened about 10 new stores. Largely due to an economy that took a dramatic turn, the timing was very poor to try and expand. There are other reasons that caused the cracks, which one day I will explain just to pass on my lessons.

The road to recovery for Shabby Chic will be hard and recovery is by no means certain. I find myself in a situation of having to understand parts of business that are challenging for a flea market girl.

I was never much of a negotiator and for 17 and one half years I grew my company in a manageable way.

I find the rise and the fall of Shabby Chic very parallel to my family.

My son Jake was born 20 years ago in May and Shabby Chic's doors opened in august twenty years ago.

Their growth and lessons have often been very parallel.

And then twenty years later, as many of you know, I lost my mum. Even though she was still so lovely and her heart-beat was strong, her broken pieces couldn't be fixed.

Shabby Chic's heart and soul beats as strong as ever.

And if I say so myself, Shabby Chic has never been so beautiful.

I have a strong team who believes in our future. We know the problems and every minute of every day is being spent making Shabby Chic strong again.

I am touched by the demand for our products. Some of which we cannot supply at this time. I thank you for loving Shabby Chic. And somehow we will shrink down to a place that we can get our feet back on the ground.

If you see a store closing it is not because we didn't try, or love the neighbourhood. We just have to focus our energies and resources to gain our strength back and take care of our customers through remaining store locations.

Your patience will be needed and so very appreciated. My staff will answer your questions as best they can.

I thank you for your faith in me.

With love, respect, gratitude.

Special Sale

2009-01-16T16:42:00.000-08:00

Wonky, Broken, Unplanned But Beautiful

2009-01-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl my mum used to buy and sell antique dolls.

I very much appreciated her doll restoration process but really wasn't that interested in the pretty doll world. However, I did always ask her to put aside the cracked or broken ones.

For many years I wondered if my attraction to the wonky was due to a low self esteem issue. But in the end it was the seed of what would become my comfort zone of loving imperfection.

That is the core of Shabby Chic and my general philosophy of life. Perfection is too daunting.

I recently moved into my new home which I am loving. I finally got it right!
But somethings don't work so well.
Somethings are a little broken.
Somethings a little wonky.
Somethings I placed in a hurry and have just left them there, and now they just belong, by mistake.

But in the end, they are all beautiful. And I accept them, just the way they are, and now wouldn't want them any other way.

And so with the new year ahead, I will continue to embrace everything imperfect and continue to understand that perspective makes all the difference in whether something is junk or a treasure, and that alone can make life quite a fine place to be. There is always beauty, somewhere, somehow.

Please click to view Palace Embroidery Duvet, Waterlily Collection or White Whisper Collections. Thank You.

Happy And Peaceful Holidays To Everyone

2008-12-23T14:51:00.000-08:00

Reflection

2008-12-07T08:11:00.001-08:00

Birthdays and the end of the year seem to be the milestones that prompt us to look back on the year before and set goals and dreams for the year to come. As I get older I do understand that even though losses can become more painful, being grateful for inevitable gifts and lessons of life are so very important.

Being an artist, a romantic, and a dreamer, I find it very easy to reflect on my life experiences in a storybook setting. I often cut out the yucky parts and leave just the beautiful pieces in my memory. Sometimes this causes for repeat mistakes. But in the end, somehow I do think we all learn what we need to learn. I have been giving much thought to how we frame our lives. And that no matter what we say, or even think, it is our actions that show our authentic selves.

Our relationships with our friends and families are the true benchmark of our success and happiness. Of course, what we do with our lives is another element that adds to who we are. Much to reflect upon. And for me, it is the authenticity of myself and people that are so vital.

My thoughts from inner reflection lead me to thinking about the reflection of a mirror, and how the authenticity of the frame and details set off the perfect reflection. A mirror is one of the signature items when I talk about components that I usually include when designing most rooms in a home.

The size, shape, patina and frame all need to be considered of course. Oversized mirrors, to practical mirrors for bathrooms, to smaller vanity mirrors are always on my list when on my flea market escapades. Funny because I don't love to look into a mirror. In fact, often at the flea markets I will have someone else look in the mirrors to check for distortions. Guys never seem to be bothered with the surprises a mirror can reveal.

The character of all these mirrors are set by their frames, but often it is the subtle details, the imperfections in the frames, or the peeling silver of the mirror itself that the true character lies.

Kind of like our own character, of how we frame ourselves.

I always buy vintage mirrors, but I also love the very selected collection of reproduction mirrors that we sell at Shabby Chic. To view more of our mirrors, please click here.

To view the entire Icons of Faith Candle collection, please click here.

I am hoping my last blog was helpful in creating peaceful moments. But there certainly is much about the future that give cause for concern.

During a moment when I needed reassurance of the future, a dear friend quoted
"What lies behind you and what lies ahead of you are tiny matters compared to what lies within you." by Waldo Emerson.