Big Changes Coming!

Yes, it has undoubtedly been a very long time since I've posted -- too long to be sure. But, I've spent the last several months doing amazing things, working with fabulous clients, friends, and mentors. I finished my tenure at Meg Braff Designs in August and it was with such sweet sorrow. I knew it was time to go out on my own, but to leave such dear friends and open my own firm seemed a daunting task! But, I had no time to worry as I was completely immersed in preparations for a wonderful designer showcase at Friends of Sands Point Hempstead House. The old Gold Coast mansion, or Castle as it's known, that was home to the Guggenheim family. The Marriage Suite I created was a smashing success and we attracted over two thousand guests to the house and raised much awareness for the preservation of the estate. It was such a pleasure to meet visitors who were so knowledgeable & passionate about the estate and other Gold Coast mansions here on Long Island. We were also featured in The New York Times, Newsday, and House Magazine multiple times; a nice bonus. It was a fantastic first experience with a designer showcase and I look forward to doing it again this year! I also had the privilege of meeting Alexa Hampton once again for the signing of her new book; Decorating in Detail - a must read! Thank goodness for Facebook as it's provided me an avenue for quick posts and updates as to what has been going on since my last blog post. I also enjoyed attending both NYNOW Gift Shows in the city and seeing all the new and fun things the market has to offer and meeting the wonderful vendors (I do feel though that the January show seems to be a re-hash of what I saw in August; something to remember next year). I definitely look forward to attending High Point this Spring! Finally, as I embark on yet another aspect of my design journey and move towards creating a new web page, enjoy a few of my memorable moments from the last few months. Enjoy!

Art...A Worthy Investment?

Yes, yes, yes! Nothing is more beautiful than a calming oil landscape, an antique black and white engraving, bronze sculpture, or miniature plein-air oil. Yet, in this day and age, original art is a luxury - no two bones about it. Therefore, I have, on several occasions, successfully approached a local dealer and asked about purchasing artwork on a lay-away plan if you will. So, if your patient and not too proud to ask about being able to put a deposit down to secure a piece, the reward is huge. Any artist or dealer would much prefer to move their pieces, rather than having them sit around for an extended period of time. I'm convinced, owning one-of-a-kind, original artwork doesn't only enhance your home, but your life. My favorite artists, that I return to again and again are J. Michael Kennedy and Trish Hurley. I try to add little pieces of art all around my home and have even purchased great pieces from Horchow that are reproduction pieces in fabulous frames. I am also a huge fan of architectural watercolors from Michael Hampton and love the Chinoiserie works of Harrison Howard. Let me know your favorite artists!