TO DO 2012

A few years ago, I started writing down my New Year's "Resolutions" and then posting them to one of my many inspiration boards ("happy boards" to those that know me best).  I peek at my list each of the 365 days (366 this year!) and my handwritten list serves as a reminder of my daily commitment to excellence and moving forward in positive ways.  Last year was a big year for me and the business.  One year ago this month I opened the studio (here), hired a design assistant over the summer, and took on more creative projects than ever.  This year, I hope to continue growing and expanding in new and exciting ways.  Here's what is on my TO DO List for 2012:

1. Bookend the year in travel, one for community and one for pleasure, 2. read more books, 3. spend more time outside, especially (here) with my favorite Morgan mare, 4. drink more water (carried over from my 2011 list), 5. entertain more often and more intimately, 6. take bigger "steps", 7. be present, AND 8. take a few (more) BIG risks...

   

In an effort to push myself (and my team) to new heights of creativity in interiors and events especially, I hope you too will be INSPIRED to dream BIG, create beautiful things, and give us your feedback from time to time on our journey.

Happy Everything 2012!
xo,
stephanie


Image 1 weheartit.com, 2 and 10 google, 3, 6, 8 pinterest, 4, 5, 7, 9 designer's own

Interior Inspiration - E is for...

...EQUESTRIAN!

As some of you may already know, I absolutely adore my sweet Morgan mare, Libby (a frequent star of the blog), and she brings so much inspiration to many areas of my life (interiors being no exception!).  Whether used in small or large doses, equestrian elements can bring a chic, high-end feel to any space.  I personally have large custom art pieces featuring horses in the studio and in my living room at home, and they are among my favorite design elements in both spaces.  Here are a few of my (most recent) sources of equine inspiration...

*IMAGES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8&9

Do these beauties inspire you?  I know I can't wait to get to the barn this weekend...
Happy Wednesday!
xSB

The Friday 5

This week I took a quick trip down south to see my mother's side of the family.  That meant lots of time sitting in airports and on various planes.  It was nice to have a few hours to get my "To Do" lists (yes, I said "lists" with an 's') in order and catch up on some of my reading.  Ironically, it wasn't until after my journey that this was delivered to me...all the way from Paris!  

Upon my return, it was back to the grind...catching up on projects and doing quite a bit of creating.  

Between gathering supplies and scheduling furniture deliveries, putting together the design concept for a client bedroom project, trips to the fabric store and the framer, I was a busy, little bee. 

It has also been a week of weddings...gearing up for the season ahead, prepping design ideas for potential brides and staying inspired by each and every client and their vision.  I came across this image when looking for "lavender" weddings (I did this for a show awhile back).  I always enjoy the creative collaboration with my talented vendor partners.  Thank you Carla David Design, Gala Cloths, Party Rental, and Wicked Willow especially for your help with this fun display. 

In college I used to run the stadium steps up and down and up and down again.  I love the challenge of the incline and with these gorgeous spring-like days it has been hard to pass up this workout.

And speaking of sunny days...I hope to see my very favorite Morgan mare (I know she makes the blog a lot) again this weekend.  I may be out riding while the big game is on, but back in time for 

half time of course.

Until next week...

xo,

stephanie

Hello Long Weekend...

I do love Friday's, especially when they are attached to a holiday weekend, and I certainly have plenty on the books. First up, a visit with my mother (celebrating Mother's Day a few weeks late), a trip to the barn (to get in a long ride with my favorite Morgan mare), and (in the mornings) a little catching up on my reading.  My magazine stack is all too high and I am falling a little behind.

In the afternoons...I hope to spend a little time here.  Our pool opens on Saturday!  

And in the evening, I am planning an intimate dining experience right in my own lovely garden.  The knock out roses are literally on fire right now, and the peonies have just a few days remaining.  I have said many times before that cooking is not my strongest suit (although I can style a plate like nobody's business), however, I may even try making a little of this and this.

How will you be spending your long weekend?  Either way, I hope you enjoy the sun (don't forget the sunscreen), family and friends, and we'll be back again next week!

Until then... 

xSB

P.S.  If you haven't already registered for Harbor East FashionEASTa Fashion Show VIP ticket give-a-way (here), you still have a few more days.  We'll be selecting a winner on Tuesday! 

*Image 1, 2, and 3

Bucket List

Many that know me well know how near and dear to me the National Association of Catering Executives is...in particular the the Baltimore Chapter.  I have been on the board for years now, and with each passing season I am excited to see our chapter grow, develop new leaders, and continue to set standards for the organization nationwide.  One of the most exciting experiences our chapter offers is the opportunity to participate in and/or attend the award-winning UNCORKED! fundraising event.   The food and design is nothing short of spectacular, and this year the design theme is "The Bucket List."  I have created countless tablescapes for this event in years past (here and here), and while I am taking a year off on the design-side, I am delighted to be attending the event (as a guest!) and can't wait to see what my creative industry colleagues put together.  

After purchasing my ticket (there are still a few available here!), I got to thinking about how I might design my table, and what exactly was on my personal bucket list.  The very first thing that came to mind was my mare, Libby, and how much I would love to train her to be a barrel racing horse.  She is the perfect size, low to the ground, and always eager and willing to get up and go.  

Over the weekend, a new fellow joined the family at the farm.  Meet Bruiser (above).  He is a two-year old gelding, and let me just say...after two minutes together I was immediately smitten.  He is the owners new show horse, and while not a barrel racing machine, he is perfectly fit in his own right. After all, can't a girl dream?  Anything wild on your bucket list?  

* For more information about UNCORKED! 2012, check out the event website here and yes, there are still a few tickets remaining!  WE hope to see you there...

* Image 1 flickr.com

Happy Weekend!

On our weekend agenda...Spending some much needed time at the barn (with our favorite Morgan mare) and a run through the field ourselves.  Fancy skirt and riding boots included.  

xo, stephanie