Valentine's Teacup Flower Arrangements

Photo by Flitterin

For Valentine's this year, I wanted to do a little something for my daughter's teachers at her preschool, and decided to do a small flower arrangement. I am not a florist by any means, but really enjoy putting together an arrangement and have taken a couple of classes for fun at an amazing florist here in Los Angeles: Floral Art. I found these pink teacups on sale at Joann Fabric and voila! The teachers got teacup flower arrangements.

Photo by Flitterin

My technique is not by any means professional, but does produce an impressive arrangement to give as a gift, or decorate a table for a party. These would be lovely at each place setting at a tea, shower, or garden party.

To get my flowers, a took a trip to the amazing LA Flower Mart in downtown Los Angeles. This is one of my favorite places to go to in Los Angeles. There is a stunning array of blossoms any time of the year and half the price of a florist and much less than even your local grocery store. I plan to do a more thorough post with all the details soon...

Photo by Flitterin

With roses, you get the most bang for your buck, but I'm not a huge rose fan and usually gravitated towards more delicate garden flowers. One of the first vendors I went to had a beautiful selection and being short on time, I snapped up two bunches of white with a hint of pink anemones, pink ranunculus, and star of bethleham. I also bought some dusty miller, which is a fuzzy silvery green leaf for texture, but decided against using it. With all of the flowers bought I was able to make four arrangements, which came to about $10 an arrangement.

Photo by Flitterin

So here is what you need:

1 Teacup (any size or shape will work)
Block of Wet Floral Foam
Pencil
Knife
Garden Shears ( easier but a sharp knife will do.)
Flowers I used:
4 Anemones (mix of open and closed)
4 Ranunculas (mix of open and closed)
2 Stems of Star of Bethlehem
Aqua tubes (optional)

Any mix of flowers would work for this. When I do arrangements I usually try to have three different textures, a big flower like a peony, or rose, a smaller flower or more closed flower, like tulips, callas lily, hydrangea, star of Bethlehem (here), lily of the valley, tuber rose, and a leaf or greenery of some kind which I omitted here. These would be great with all one flower too, and I think  hot pink roses especially if retroflexed could be more fun and modern.

To start, soak your floral foam in a sink or bucket of water for a two to three minutes. When saturated, remove from the water and place your teacup upside down on top of the foam.

Photo by Flitterin

Press down lightly to make an impression,

Photo bt Flitterin

Then, using your knife follow the outline to cut out a cylinder. You will need to trim the cylinder down until it fits snuggly in the cup. You want the foam to stick up about an inch or two above the container, but more then that you will want to trim down. I then cut the sides at 45 degree angle to make decorating easier and filled the cup with water.

Photo bt Flitterin

Next, trim your flowers at a sharp angle to about two and a half inches removing leaves unless close to the head of the flower.

Photo by Flitterin

Start with your smallest flower here the star of bethlehem, and push the stems firmly but delicately, into the foam on either side of the arrangement. With floral foam flowers with thick stems work best, but if you are using a delicate stem, or if your flower breaks off too short while you are trying to press it into the foam, you an put them into water filled aqua tubes, and then press those into the foam.

Photo by Flitterin

Then take two of your your biggest or most open flowers, here the anemone, and press them into the top of the floral foam.

Photo by Flitterin

I then began filling in with flowers using clusters of similar color until the arrangement looked full and no floral foam was exposed.

Photo by Flitterin

Photo by Flitterin

Since these were small, I kept them overnight in the fridge and the next day the looked equally fresh. You can always add more water to the foam or mist the blossoms with flowers to keep fresh. I have found no matter what my floral foam arrangements just don't last as long. If anyone has any tricks or advice, let me know!

Photo by Flitterin

Estate Sale Pick - Holmby Hills

I love a good estate sale. Maybe it's because I'm a nosy nelly and like to get a peek inside people's fancy houses and boy are there some amazing ones out here in Los Angeles! Or perhaps it's because I fantasize that I'll snap up some unnoticed treasure for $100 bucks that's really worth a million dollars. The best I've done so far is a set of Fortuny fabric curtains for $50. In any case, It's really fun to see the architecture not to mention the goods on sale. You can find vintage designer bags like Louis Vuitton, stunning furnishings and decor usually at a bargain especially on the last day of the sale. 

Holmby Hills Estate Sale (Photo Source: Vanya's Distinct Possessions)

I like to stay on the Westside because that's my hood, but I've been to some great ones in other neighborhoods too. I thought I would start posting my pick for estate sale of the week, and this week it is one of Vanya's Distinct Possessions. Her sales are usually in upscale neighborhoods like Bel Air, Beverly Hills, or in this case Holmby Hills. She knows her stuff so things are usually priced accordingly, but I have gotten a deal on the last day, and don't be afraid to haggle!

Holmby Hills Estate Sale Dining Room (Photo Source: Vanya's Distinct Possessions)

Sometimes it can be hard to see the forest through the trees (or clutter as the case may be) but at this particular sale it looks like it's all about the dining room. I'm swooning over these white Chinese Chippendale chairs and that Chandelier not to mention the carved mirror.

Holmby Hills Estate Sale Detail (Photo Source: Vanya's Distinct Possessions)

All those chairs need is a less traditional fabric update and they can go with a more modern, transitional, or eclectic decor. Here are a similar set in this Lonny Magazine spread:

(Photo Source: Patrick Cline/Lonny Mag)

(Photo Source: Patrick Cline/Lonny Mag)

Holmby Hills Estate Sale

400 Loring Avenue
Los Angeles, 90024

Saturday March 14, and Sunday March 15

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

You can find more pictures here. Happy Hunting!

Books to Put You In the Mood - Paris

Before I jetted off to Paris a few months ago, I stopped into the Traveler's Bookcase, a lovely little travel bookstore on Third Street in Los Angeles, to pick up some guide books, maps, and a travel dictionary. As I've mentioned before, whenever I am traveling I like to try and pack books to read that are set in that location, and the Traveler's Bookcase has a great selection of fiction and non fiction reading materials for just about anywhere you want to go. When I asked the store's owner what she would recommend for Paris, she said "How about a mystery?" I'm a complete mystery junkie, so I promptly replied "Yes please." She handed me Cara Black's: Murder in the Bastille, and said if "You like this, there is a whole series to read."

I read the entire book on the plane, which is the reason I got no sleep, and finished it just as we were pulling into our gate at Charles de Gaulle. Needless to say, I was hooked.


The series features the adventures of the stylish private detective Aimee Leduc who is kind of like a French Carrie Bradshaw. Each book has a murder committed in a different area of Paris, and really highlights the neighborhood's ambiance. Oddly enough, it seems like the people getting murdered have nothing to do with any case she's working on, but the mysteries are compelling enough for a fun read.

While in Paris, I stopped by a great little English language book store in the Marais, called the Red Wheelbarrow. They carry Cara Black; as well, as many other fiction and non fiction books set in Paris. It's worth a stop to pick out something for the flight home. I bought Murder in Rue de Paradis and read it while eating a croissant on my train ride to London. The experience made me feel like I was lingering in Paris just a little while longer.

Traveler's Bookcase
8375 West Third Street
Los Angeles, Ca 90048
tel: 323.655.0575

The Red Wheelbarrow
22, Rue St Paul
75004 Paris
tel: 0148047508

Godard's "Made in USA" - L.A. & N.Y.

For all you Godard fans out there, "Made in USA" is being screened for the first time since 1967 in American theaters. This is Godard's take on the film noir, so don't expect serious suspense (the movie described itself as "Walt Disney with blood"), or the disjointed narrative to make much sense.  Anna Karina, donning a glamorous trench coat, takes on the roles of both femme fatale and Humphrey Bogart, while Truffaut's favorite Jean-Pierre Leaud makes an appearance as a bumbling detective wearing a pin that reads "Kiss me I'm Italian."  

See "Made in USA" for the fabulous fashions, the vibrant pop art colored visuals, and of course the lovely Anna Karina.

Playing in Los Angeles at the Landmark Nuart Theatre January 18th - January 22nd and also at the Film Forum in New York through January 22nd.

Black Halo Sample Sale - Los Angeles

The sample sales just keep coming, and in this economy we need them! Black Halo is selling samples and new merchandise this Friday and Saturday at big discounts. This is a perfect sale to hit for holiday tops and dresses. If you're not familiar with Black Halo, check out their styles here: http://blackhalo.com/

Friday December 5th - 12:00 - 5:00
Saturday December 6th - 9:00 - 3:00
588 Mateo Street
Los Angeles, Ca 90013
Cash and Credit

Rachel Pally Fall Sample Sale - Los Angeles

It's sample sale time! Daily Candy has been posting about a plethora of sample sales that won't be letting up until Christmas. Here is one more to add to your list. Rachel Pally is having a sample sale of Fall 2008 merchandise including her cashmere collection:

Thursday December 4th - Sunday December 7th, 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
2301 E. 7th Street Suite C 100
Los Angeles, CA
Check, Cash, Visa and Mastercard

Go to www.rachelpally.com to view the collection.

La Mill Coffee Boutique - Los Angeles

Today I decided to leave the comfort of my neighborhood and do a little exploring in Silver Lake. I've been reading a lot about La Mill Coffee Boutique on Silver Lake Blvd. and decided to check the place out for myself. The decor is an unusual mix of sleek modern and tea room luxury. Somehow red and grey walls, a neoclassical mural, and mid-century modern peacock and baby blue ostrich and crocodile print chairs work. It is a great space that felt very European to me, similar to places I have seen in London or Italy where decorators combine modern elements with nods to the past. The coffee is very good, but not exactly cheap. I was smitten with their blue coffee tin, but quickly fell out of favor when I noticed it cost $65 full of coffee. 

This definitely is not your average neighborhood coffee shop. The menu was designed by the chef of Providence if that gives you any indication. I tried the Sofia panini which consisted of a pungent goat cheese, olive tapenade, basil, and tomato compote. It was good, but the highlight was the home made potato chips that accompanied. A small coffee and a panini set me back around $20. The breakfast sounds intriguing particularly the cinnamon French toast, but the ambiance at La Mill is so nice, that the next time I go back I hope to have a leisurely cup of coffee or tea with friends.

Mulberry Friends and Family Sale - New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles

I just received an e-mail from Mulberry offering a 30% "friends" and "family" discount on all in store items, including those on sale. Alas, even with a discount, I don't think a Mulberry bag is in my budget. But, for those of you looking to splurge, I am happy to e-mail you the invite.

There are a few items on their website that are under $100, including the cute heart shaped luggage tag below. In the white or hot pink option, these tags would make it a lot easier to spot your bag on the luggage carousel!

Peter Alexander Slippers - Los Angeles

Peter Alexander, an Australian lingerie designer has just opened a boutique in Los Angeles on trendy Robertson boulevard. The store carries adorable pajama bottoms, bags, and fun gift items. I was particularly taken with the slippers which would be so cute and comfortable on a red eye or international flight. Slippers retail for around $40. www.peteralexanderusa.com

L'Ecole Des Femmes - Los Angeles

L'Ecole Des Femmes, a new clothing boutique has just opened on third street. Dresses have a ladylike sixties appeal -- think Catherine Deneuve in Belle Du Jour.

Tonight, clothing boutique Rodan vs Griffith is having a "moustache" party to welcome them to the neighborhood. Champagne, pastries, and moustaches will be provided.

Henry Road Shop - Los Angeles

Henry Road in Studio City is the perfect place to pick up whimsical gifts, accessories, and knick knacks. Custom fabrics with a retro South African flavor decorate napkins, tea towels, lampshades, journals, and even furniture. Makes a trip over the hill worth it!

Kiss My Bundt Bakery - Los Angeles

Kiss My Bundt Bakery just opened on 3rd street in West Hollywood, and aside from having a great name, I'm happy to have a new dessert shop that's offering something other than cupcakes and yogurt.  They offer a large selection of bundt and mini bundt cakes with flavors that change daily such as: Callebaut chocolate with chocolate glaze, Red velvet with cream cheese frosting, Luscious lemon drop cake,  and Cinnamon pecan coffee cake. They also offer organic coffees and teas. 

Hotel Palomar - Los Angeles

Hotel Palomar, Los Angeles's first eco hotel, has opened in Westwood. The hotel utilizes all eco and organic friendly products down to to the food in the mini bar, and energy efficient lighting and water fixtures, without sacrificing their old hollywood style. Another perk is their pet friendliness. With the help of the super cute Director of Pet Relations, Jackson Oscar (above), they promise to properly pamper you and your pet during your stay. Rates start at: $225  www.hotelpalomar-lawestwood.com

9 to 5 The Musical - Los Angeles, New York

9 to 5 The Musical opens this Saturday at the Ahmanson Theatre here in Los Angeles. It features all new music by Miss Dolly Parton and stars Allison Janney in the Lily Tomlinson role. The show will be running here through October 16th and then heading to Broadway's Marquis Theatre in March. Tickets are available now including Hot Tickets which can be purchased for just $20 for seats with slightly obstructed viewing. I've always loved this movie and have my Hot Tickets reserved for this Saturday's performance. I'll let you know how it goes!

Vin et Fromage a Maison 140 - Los Angeles

Every Wednesday night the ultra lux Bar Noir in the Maison 140 hotel is holding wine and cheese pairings for $25 a person. Wines are all California varieties, and cheese is supplied by the comprehensive Cheese Shop of Beverly Hills. 

Bouchon Restaurant and Bakery- Beverly Hills

I am very excited to find out that Thomas Keller will be opening a Bouchon Restaurant and Bakery in my very own Beverly Hills! The restaurant is set to open in the fall of 2009 in the Montage Hotel and Garden complex on Canon Drive. Boy am I glad I didn't sign the petition against the Montage project when they came knocking on my door a few years ago. Since it doesn't open until a year from now, that gives me plenty of time to start saving my money now!

You can read about the project here.

Bensimon Shoes

Bensimon shoes, previously only available in Europe, are now being sold at Madewell in the Los Angeles Century City Mall. Their tennis shoes are so Parisian retro cool that I can imagine them being on the feet of Charlotte Gainsbourg or Sophie Marceau in the 80's film La Boum. They  look like they would pack well in a suitcase, are comfortable, and can be washed in a washing machine. If you're headed to France,  Bensimon has several retail locations where they also carry clothing, bags, bikes, home goods, and travel accessories.

Hip Cooks Cooking Classes - Los Angeles

As a wedding gift, we were given several cooking classes at Hip Cooks, a cooking school here in L.A. We finally got around to taking our first class: Tarts for Tarts.  The classes have a really fun vibe and are appropriate for novices or intermediate cooks. Classes are either workshops where you eat as you go along, or menus where you sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Adding to the fun, appropriately paired alcohol flows freely. When I got home, I practiced my tart making skills on the above Torta della Nonna. Delizioso!

Furry Travel Companions

For those of you with amiable furry travel companions, I was recently at the new London West Hollywood hotel, and was informed that the hotel prides themselves on being animal friendly. They have water dishes around the property, a glamorous dog house, and a resident English bulldog who greats visitors at the door:  www.thelondonwesthollywood.com

An East coast pet friendly hotel is the Parker Meridian New York. They go so far as to provide a room service menu that caters specifically for pets. Forgot something? No problem. They have everything from scratching posts to animal mood music: www.parkermeridian.com

1. London Palm Beach bag $132, 2. London Nantucket bag $132, 3. Fiona Bag $88, (bags 1., 2., and 3. available at kwigy bo), 4. Louis Vuitton Monogram Sac de Chien $1830 ( eluxury), 5. Michael Bag $132 ( kwigy bo) 6. Bruce Bag $450, (Olive Green Dog), 7. Mod Travel Bowls  $14.00 (Olive Green Dog), 8. Plush Bed (Olly Dog), 9. Goyard Travel Dish $$$ (Goyard)

 

Here are a few accessories that will make traveling with a pet a bit easier, without sacrificing style. All bags meet most airline's travel guidelines, and two of the bags are male friendly options. Carrying a dog or cat through an airport is exhausting business, and you might want your guy to share in the heavy lifting. He'll be a lot more willing if you don't bring the pink princess bag. 

The travel bowls listed fold up for easy packing, and the dog/cat beds can be packed flat or rolled. The Goyard travel pet case and the Louis Vuitton bag are ridiculously extravagant, but if can afford it and really want to spoil your pet -- or yourself --  lucky you!

Cinespia at Hollywood Forever - Los Angeles

Last weekend, we headed to the Hollywood Forever Cemetary for a screening of The Man Who Knew to Much. If the thought of eating a picnic and watching a movie in a cemetary seems a bit morbid to you, rest assured that you are not picnicing on the dearly departed, but on an unused plot of land.

The cemetary is beautifully landscaped, and most of the people buried there are Hollywood legends who would probably approve of the entertainment. A D.J. plays before and after the show, and alcohol is permitted.

This Sunday's movie is Blue Velvet. I'll be bringing the Pabst Blue Ribbon! Details at: http://cinespia.org/