CHEWING THE CUD

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i am especially fond of CHEWING THE CUD & viola, the incredibly talented creator of the innovative company….viola designed all of the printed materials for A LOVELY WORKSHOP in napa & she is working tirelessly on amazing letterpress & printed surprises for A LOVELY WORKSHOP in france coming up in may 2010….she is also working on a very special personal project, a sweet little bun in the oven….to see more of her lovely designs & unique ideas you must check out STYLE ME PRETTY, abby will be putting up some more of viola’s work very soon…..

About chewing the cud….
“chewing the cud is a story depicted in the mediums of paper, apparel, and accessories. The tale is a celebration of all things unique; sometimes bold and dramatic; other times a soft whisper, or a playful hint of spice. The ending is always a kaleidoscope of inspired possibilities, and that, is how we like to see our world.”
-viola (creator & owner of chewing the cud)

i just love the BIG IDEAS books…..

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“Why chewing the cud, you ask? We like to ask “why,” and then we like to ask, “why not.” chewing the cud defines that moment of meditation before taking a calculated leap. For the most part, we remember to bring our wings.”-viola….there is a sweet simplicity & loveliness to viola’s designs…

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i always think its interesting to find out what inspires someone who inspires me….

and these are a few of viola’s favourite things…..

“running in the rain. flip flops. spotted feathers. cookbooks (with lots of photographs). steamed custard. square wreaths. laughing out loud. stripes and dots. tongue-scorching hot sauce. freshly picked lavendar. foldable bags. foggy mornings. pleats. wet clay. starry nights. crooked lines. books and blankets. white daisies. movies in the park. french macaroons. cigar boxes. dark roast coffee. lazy sundays. did I say coffee?”

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these fabric wraps stole my heart the first time i laid eyes on them….these beautifully designed pieces are fabric are meant to be used to wrap a gift…i love this idea…a gift within a gift….its clever & sweet….and they make beautiful head scarves, my daughter has been wearing one around the house lately……here is some more information about the super stylish fabric wraps  in viola’s own words….

Unwrapping the story…
“I didn’t know it then but I think the idea was planted in my head many years ago, when I did my thesis on gift-giving in art school. I’ve always felt that the gift presentation is as important as the gift itself. Each wrap is a gesture of giving and carries a message: Give Luck, Give Cheer, Give Love… “
Wrap your gifts and loved ones with much love and luck….
And some of the more practical specs:
• all printed on 100% organic cotton using vegetable-based inks
• eco-friendly alternative to wrapping paper
• great for wrapping odd-shaped objects
• great as a fashion accessory, napkin, cushion covers, as a print on the wall….

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remember to stop by STYLE ME PRETTY & CHEWING THE CUD & let yourself be inspired….

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THE GIVEAWAY….

two lucky winners will receive 3 CHEWING THE CUD gift wraps…as well as a BIG IDEAS book…each winner will get a yellow fabric “give luck” wrap, a blue fabric “give luck” wrap, and a flower fabric wrap….you can keep all three, use them as art for your wall, a scarf for your hair or maybe keep your favorite & give 2 to two of your favorite people….& i love the BIG IDEAS book, perfect to slip into your purse & pull out when something special pops in your mind, who knows how big your ideas can get?? so please leave a comment, cross your fingers & i will select 2 winners very soon….xoxoxo

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sarah

SARAH DRAKE DESIGN is a simply wonderful invitation company that has (lucky for us) started a new line of beautiful home products…stunning linen table clothes & napkins….linen sheets….dishes….& more…& everything can be personalized with you & your hubby’s monogram…

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about
SARAH DRAKE DESIGN

Art and Soul

“Sarah Drake is a design company inspired by real relationships, experiences, and true stories. We infuse this into our letterpress wedding invitations, monograms, linens, and ceramics, all custom made. Sarah Drake is run by two women, who strive to bring the most attentive service to our customer base. The nature of the products comes from developing relationships with our clients through active listening. Customers share their backgrounds, loves, style, and personal histories. Our products become pieces of art that evolve from their narratives and often go beyond the client’s expectations, as we are creating product that is truly representative of their souls. This is our main goal as a company, to develop positive relationships while keeping a careful eye on the quality of our designs, paper, ceramics and linens. 
 
Our relationships with vendors are equally important in maintaining the integrity of our business.We use the services of small, family-run companies to provide the highest and most green quality products available. In fact, most of the companies we work with, including our printers, are within walking distance of our Chicago studio. By building community within our industry, we can create the finest quality products, reduce shipping costs, contribute to the growth of Chicago’s economy, all while developing long lasting friendships.
 
The soft economy has given us a chance to reflect on our goal as a business in a world already overwhelmed with products and waste. Our work is different. Each order is custom made per client, not mass produced. Whether it is an invitation to an intimate event, or a porcelain mug, each item passes through our doors with a history already attached to it. It has been produced specifically for the person it was meant for, meticulously designed with our fine eye for simplicity and form, and created by local artisans or by our own hands.
 
Our personalized service provides the catalyst of what it means to connect with each other. We have stayed in contact with many of our clients, formed new bonds that have resulted in shared dinners, invitations to clients’ homes, and even been witnesses at their weddings. We think that above all, this is what is important in life. People, relationships, conversations, and the best product available that grows from all of this.”

SARAH DRAKE DESIGN
 

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i must confess….i have known sarah (one of the founders) for some time…i photographed her wedding years ago & have long been a fan of her creative design work…but these home items have me a bit weak in the knees- (i am waiting for my very own grey linen table cloth & napkins with bated breath)

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and they have a line of every day dishes that is so simple….perfect for any meal

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which you can have personalized for your family too

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SARAH DRAKE DESIGN’s products feel like home

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“i am my beloved’s & my beloved is mine”
SONG OF SONGS

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ohhhh….and i love the knit throw….its perfect for a lazy afternoon or a walk in the park

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whether you want a perfect invitation, a bowl of figs or to fall asleep in a field of dreams….

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take off your shoes & snuggle up with
SARAH DRAKE DESIGN

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the simply stunning bride, isabelle & her lucky groom, daniel were made for each other….

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their unbelievably lovely wedding was planned to perfection by MINDY WEISS

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all of the incredibly beautiful paper products were created by GRACE CONNELL DESIGNS….she is such a talented & amazing artist….every detail of this wedding was stunning from the one of a kind invitations (each one was hand painted)…to the tables numbers (also hand painted)…to the ridiculously fabulous map (hand painted as well) created especially for the bride & groom’s guests…..

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speaking of RIDICULOUS….you must check out what MINDY WEISS has planned for sunday october 11th, 2009….she’s assembled a wonderful group of wedding professionals to share their information & creativity with brides & other professionals alike….i am honored to be one of the speakers alongside inspiring women like  AMY ATLAS, amazing event planner & sweet conesure from new york & ANTONIA VAN DER MEER, editor & chief of MODERN BRIDE & ELEGANT BRIDE, & many more – at mindy’s weiss’ most RIDICULOUS wedding event ever! if you are anywhere near los angeles on october 11th, you must check it out….
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back to this beautiful wedding, the entire celebration took place at the SAN YSIDRO RANCH

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the bride was stunning in her monique lhuillier gown & handmade LEAH C headpiece

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the bridesmaids, oh the bridesmaids, were all so stunning, each adorned with LEAH C headpieces

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the SR HOUGUE florals were a stunning compliment to the beauty of the SAN YSIDRO RANCH…

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the celebration lasted late into the night….so much love….so much beauty….

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isabelle & daniel are such a sweet & beautiful couple….

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i simply adored being part of this wedding….

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i hope these images help inspire your dreams & plans for your wedding day…..

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this wedding is currently featured in one of my favorite magazines

ELEGANT BRIDE

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handmade paper is a perfect after school project for your children…simple, a little messy & lots of fun….you can make paper out of almost anything….we made lavender & grass paper….and even cinnamon paper….here’s the 411 about making your own paper….use your imagination & enjoy….

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SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED:

 

  • Sponge
  • Window Screening (mold)
  • Wood Frame (old picture frame can be used too) (deckle)
  • Plastic Basin/Tub (Large enough to totally immerse frame)
  • Blender/Food Processor (For making paper pulp)
  • White Felt or Flannel Fabric
  • Staples or Tacks (For tacking screen on frame)
  • Liquid starch (optional) 

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    INSTRUCTIONS:

           

    1. Select the pieces of paper to be recycled. You can even mix different types to create your own unique paper.

    2. Rip the paper into small bits, and place into the blender. (about half full). Fill the blender with warm water. Run the blender slowly at first then increase the speed until the pulp looks smooth and well blended. ( 30 -40 seconds) Check that no flakes of paper remain. If there are, blend longer.

    3. The next step is to make a mold. The mold, in this case, is made simply by stretching fiberglass screen (plain old door and window screen) over a wooden frame and stapling it. It should be as tight as possible.

    4. Fill the basin about half way with water. Add 3 blender loads of pulp. (the more pulp you add the thicker the finished paper will be) Stir the mixture.

    5. Now is the time to add the liquid starch for sizing.(This is not necessary but if the paper is going to be used for writing on, you should add some, the starch helps to prevent inks from soaking into the paper fibers.) Stir 2 teaspoons of liquid starch into the pulp.

    Place the mold into the pulp and then level it out while it is submerged. Gently wiggle it side-to-side until the pulp on top of the screen looks even.

    6. Slowly lift the mold up until it is above the level of the water. Wait until most of the water has drained from the new paper sheet. If the paper is very thick, remove some pulp from the tub. If it is too thin, add more pulp and stir the mixture again.

    7. When the mold stops dripping, gently place one edge on the side of a fabric square (felt or flannel square). Gently ease the mold down flat, with the paper directly on the fabric. Use a sponge to press out as much water as possible. Wring the excess water from the sponge back into the large plastic tub.

    8. Now comes the tricky part. Hold the fabric square flat and slowly lift the edge of the mold. The wet sheet of paper should remain on the fabric. If it sticks to the mold, you may have pulled to fast or not pressed out enough water. It takes a little practice. You can gently press out any bubbles and loose edges at this point.

    9. Repeat the steps above, and stack the fabric squares on a cookie sheet. Save one fabric square to place on the top of the stack to cover the last piece of paper. Use another cookie sheet to press the remaining water out of the stack. (do this outside or in the bathtub, it can make a mess)

    10. After you press the stack, gently separate the sheets. They can be dried by hanging on a clothesline or laying them out on sheets of newspaper. When they have dried peel them off the fabric and voila! you have paper!

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    this is a great way to teach little ones about recycling & when your paper is dry you can draw or paint on it…handmade paper would make super sweet save the dates for a wedding or birthday party too!

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    XOXO

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    BETSY WHITE
    is a truly amazing stationary company
    i was so honored to have betsy white design
    the beautiful kissing counter, that keeps count
    of every kiss under the kissing tree…. 

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    gia graham is the founder & creative genius behind betsy white
     her company creates such clean & fresh designs….i am particularly
    in love with the wedding logos….a couple can choose from a wide
    array of designs on betsy white’s website & have a beautiful graphic
    to represent their entire wedding…such a cute idea….here are a few
    personal words from gia graham about her lovely company…..
     
     

    So who’s Betsy White?
    I actually don’t know anyone named Betsy. betsywhite is a word that sprung from old Barbadian dialect (that’s where I’m from – Barbados). It refers to the song of the local black bird, which sounds a heckuva lot like “betsywhite” (at least when Bajans say it!).
     
    What’s Betsy White all about?
    We’re all about offering brides stylish stationery options they can actually afford.
     
    A little bit about me…
    My name is Gia. I’m really short (5’), I can’t sing, I suck at math and I’m not a very good swimmer (despite growing up on an island and spending countless hours on the beach). I am however, a pretty decent designer….and I can organize the heck out of just about any space (The Container Store = Disney World in my book).
     

    here are some of betsy white’s lovely designs…..

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    My kiss & tell tale…
    I’ve been married for almost 8 years and my hubby’s smooches just keep getting sweeter! They make me smile, they give me energy, they keep me grounded and make me want to fly. When it comes to kisses, I say go for quality AND quantity!

    -Gia Graham @ Betsy White

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    most of you know how i adore viola from chewing the cud….i just had to show some more of her fantastic artistry….she is as clever as she is creative….check out her original cards….my favorite of her innovative cards are “i wheelie like you” and “let’s ketchup”…so lovely & sweet & original…..

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    if you are in need of invitations, seriously clever cards or just a little inspiration visit chewing the cud

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    xoxoxoxo

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    there are really no words to adequately describe the amazing visionary behind chewing the cud…..viola is a rare bird….super talented & infinitely creative….she was an intricate part of a lovely workshop…..and worked side by side with eden to create a stunning event, that was visually seamless….each workshop attendee received a beautiful welcome package, that was custom designed by viola….as guests sat down for breakfast, they each were greeted by the sweetest little canvas bag…on the outside viola had put “the kissing tree” graphic underneath the words “a lovely workshop”…inside was a little notebook & a pencil engraved with the words “a lovely workshop”….so lovely…

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    “cuddle with cider” bags are just one of chewing the cud’s unique creations…the little canvas bags are full of spices, just perfect to make your own cup of cider….they are so cute & clever….they make me want to cuddle with viola….in a very appropriate sweet way of course….she is a joy to be around….

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    we set up a series of lovely vignettes….as though it were a real wedding….one of my favorite vignettes was the love letters….viola hand made love letters & stained each one to make them look like vintage letters…they were stunning…and accented the vintage typewriter eden provided….many weddings have guest books or a wishing bowl, for good wishes for the bride & groom…we love the idea of guests writing love letters for a couple…such a sweet & new way to share your wedding blessings….

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    viola also took little phrases & ideas from kiss the groom….i love the way she personalized every detail to reflect my own personal style….imagine how she could personalize your wedding….i wish i could put her creativity in a bottle & open it when ever i need a little inspiration….chewing the cud is simply delicious….viola is a creative visionary….an amazing invitation designer & so much more…

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    Grace Connell is the most amazingly talented calligrapher…..
    she is an artist…her work is breathtaking…from the hand-painted flowers that she
    meticulously creates one by one….from invitations, to save the date cards, to the most
    beautiful hand-painted maps of your destination….her work is one of a kind…..

    graceand i am not the only one who thinks so…her beautiful calligraphy has graced
    the cover of martha stewart weddings several times….if you have not ordered your
    invitations yet, be sure to look at grace connell’s beautiful designs…
    grace2www.graceconnelldesigns.com

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