a day for love...

Why does romance only get one day of recognition? It is an important part of life. It doesn't matter if you are in a relationship or single. Romance is a lifestyle. It can be a way to pay homage to elegant periods in history. Finding beauty in the mundane made for a graceful existence. The Victorians fully appreciated this philosophy. I try to integrate romance into every part of my life from the adorable vintage clothes I wear...

 

 

to the handkerchiefs in my purse...

 

 

 to the lovely hats prominently displayed in my home.

 

 

I love to set my table with mix and match floral dishes...

 

 

making an everyday dinner a fanciful affair.

 

I dress my beds with vintage linens...

 

 

I even try to iron my pillowcases.

 

I adore antique sewing notions...

 

 

...charming books as well as other ephemera...

 

...and I have a real affinity for oddities like these delightful flowers made from tiny seashells.

 

There are many things in this world I do not understand. But I do fully understand and embrace a romantic lifestyle. Let February 14th be the kick-off for adding a little romance into your world. It can be as simple as placing a few fresh flowers on a nightstand or eating lunch on real china. It can be the start to a beautiful way of living.

Happy Valentine's Day!



bountiful blossoms on a budget

February is the month of love and romance. It might be cold outside but it's time to warm up your heart and home with fresh flowers. And it doesn't have to break the bank. Just grab a couple of bundles of fresh flowers from the grocery store and let your creativity run wild...

 

 

I was able to find bundles of flowers that were less than $10 each! I like to keep it simple and look for varieties that will last a long time like roses, alstroemeria and carnations.

 

Once the flowers are cleaned, trim away excess leaves...especially low leaves that will be submerged in the water. Don't forget to add the flower food!

 

I like to use all white containers and clear glass. Be sure to clean the containers.

  

For a formal centerpiece, I like to use a container with a pedestal. Then I add greens from my garden or potted house plants that will spill over the edges giving a dramatic trailing effect.

 

 

Grasses, asparagus fern and ivy are lovely greenery additions for filler...

 

If the idea of creating a formal centerpiece is a little daunting, simply separate the flowers by color and/or variety and place them in containers of different heights.

 

For a delicate bedside table bouquet, place a few beautiful roses into an elegant low container.

Since it is still winter, add a couple of seasonal touches like pinecones, whimsical snowballs...

 

...and snowflakes!

  

Next time you are standing in the check-out line at the grocery store, pick up a pretty package of flowers. It's time to add a bit of romance to your home...one petal at a time!