la maison sur la colline

office calm

2012-02-15T07:23:00.004+10:00

this is image is not a reflection of my office at the moment. but wouldn't it be nice! My office currently is invading my formal lounge room. Because there is no door, it becomes a dumping ground for magazines, kids school notes, bills and everything else. I am dreaming of shelving and I comfy chair so I can make work phone calls without staring directly at the computer screen. Can't wait til our new house, my office will actually be a room all to itself - with a pretty desk, and some gorgeous shelving and ... a door!

love

2012-02-14T07:33:00.000+10:00

Source: mathildasmarket.blogspot.com via LaMaisonSurLaColline on Pinterest

Happy valentines day!

to die for!

2012-02-09T06:48:00.000+10:00

Aren't these new prints from Twine and Teacups just to die for! The Style Print I bought for each of my staff for a Christmas gift and I can't wait to frame one for myself and put in the study of our new home.

Boutique Markets

2012-01-10T08:16:00.001+10:00

gearing up for another fabulous year of events with the Boutique Markets - plus in exciting news we will launch into Adelaide and Canberra in 2012!

cool down

2012-01-09T07:26:00.000+10:00

Source: jacquelynnicole.wordpress.com via LaMaisonSurLaColline on Pinterest

Monday-itis has kicked in - as well as the dreaded heat in Brisbane. Today I'm dreaming pools and ducted air-con. I will both in our new house, and I have been collecting inspiration over here in my Pinterest pools folder.

winner!

2012-01-08T11:27:00.001+10:00

so the great brick debate has been fought and won - by yours truly of course. I knew he'd come around to my way of thinking and ditch those nasty dark bricks for something a little more subdued. The funny thing is, that I didn't really have to fight - a trip to the brick company where you can see every brick colour made into an entire wall, had the desired effect. Thank you brick company!

so the front runners are the two above, taken in a shot in the shade on my veranda this morning.Our favourite is the one on the top, and seen below in full sun yesterday at the brick centre.

now it's window trims and external house colours and the part I've been excited about - crazy paving.

the brick debate

2012-01-06T18:37:00.002+10:00

the brick debate is on in full swing our home, so much so that we are headed an hour and half down the highway tomorrow to stand around and gaze at large expanses of bricks! Yes, the debate has been heated so far, so the fact that two small children will be in the mix tomorrow will definitely make things more interesting with the obligatory comments like - 'how long to go til we are done", and "this is boring!"

My husband is super keen on dark bricks with white mortar - something that kind of reminds me of most of the primary schools I attended. It's all very masculine, and I am wondering how the classic timeless look that I was hoping for was going to fit in with this dark heavy brick.

this last image is actually the display of the house we are building - minus all the pretty bells and whistles they add to lure you in to building it. The 2nd story of the home will be weather board but everything you see in the image that is rendered will be brick in ours. So with so much brick, it's important to get it right.

sweet

2012-01-03T06:25:00.000+10:00

how sweet is this idea?

2012

2011-12-31T06:56:00.001+10:00

I'm not one for New years resolutions, partly because I can never keep them. But this one, I think I could happily have as my 2012 mantra!

All over red rover

2011-12-26T00:34:00.001+10:00

The day after Christmas and so begins the task of packing everything down, heading to the dump to discard the boxes all the presents arrived in and weaning the kids off the copious amounts of sugar they consumed over the last few days.

merry xmas

2011-12-25T05:30:00.000+10:00

wishing you all a very merry christmas!

tricky questions

2011-12-23T16:39:00.003+10:00

my niece asked her mum a tricky question recently....

"if Jesus was born on Christmas day, how did he get so big by Easter?"

Still makes me chuckle every time I think of the look on my sisters face....

Relaxed

2011-12-22T14:46:00.001+10:00

We've stolen a few days before xmas, a short drive up the coast, swimming, sailing and sleeping. My husband took the kids for a sail on the lagoon....Bliss!

pretty as

2011-12-21T05:52:00.000+10:00

i would have loved to have been a fly on the wall when the photographer told this home owner that to get the best shot of the house, she had to go back up inside and turn on every light!

This beauty and many more like it can be found over here. And if you do pop over for a visit, make sure to them them know that they left their lights on.

Love this

2011-12-19T21:39:00.001+10:00

Windows from floor to ceiling and views straight outside to the pool. Yep, I could easily pack school lunches to this backdrop.

flooring

2011-12-17T16:13:00.001+10:00

Having built previously I am not shocked that most building contracts give you the basics, and any of the nice stuff is deemed an upgrade. This weekend we were quietly surprised to find out that our floorboards for our new home (and more importantly) the ones I have fallen in love with are a standard inclusion in our contract.

So here are the three final contenders, with my favourite being the dark chocolate. Hand beaten with hammers and chains for that 100 year old look and wide and chunky, they will be perfect I think.

Decisions

2011-12-17T11:44:00.001+10:00

It's so hard to choose when there are so many options to choose from. A day trip to the builders options centre today, and I think I am going to go home with a massive headache. And this was meant to be the fun part

Sign up to Win!!!

2011-12-16T06:44:00.001+10:00

Gotta LOVE this! Sign up to HomeStyleFile to win 1 of 3 $50 Vouchers to the Online Store of Your Choice!!!

Click HERE to subscribe : all new HomeStyleFile subscribers between now and 1pm 16 December 2011 (today) will go into the draw to win 1 of 3 x $50 shopping vouchers to the online store of their choice* PLUS all HomeStyleFile subscribers get the chance to win 1 of 5 IKEA Gift Vouchers during December.

Merry Christmas!!!!

still buzzing...

2011-12-12T10:06:00.001+10:00

what a weekend! it started on Friday night with a visit from Channel 10's The Project via their Metro Whip at our Twilight Boutique Markets. Then a special delivery on Saturday of some gorgeous frames from Mondo Cherry (pictures to come later) and then our final Christmas Boutique Markets yesterday in Brisbane. Still buzzing....

Brisbane Christmas Markets

2011-12-09T05:50:00.001+10:00

it's almost the weekend and 2 of my most favourite markets of the year are on this weekend in Brisbane! The Boutique Markets Twilight market tonight and our gorgeous daytime Boutique Markets Christmas event on Sunday. With Christmas knocking on my door, I'm going to get all of my gift buying down this weekend at the markets.

xmas

2011-12-08T10:42:00.001+10:00

our Christmas tree is up, and I am in love with my gorgeous white clay decorations from Marley and Lockyer and Ruby Victoria Letterpress.

Christmas in Sydney!

2011-12-02T05:00:00.000+10:00

my final 'away' event for the year and my bags are packed for my flight to Sydney tomorrow, ahead of Sunday's Christmas Shopping event! This one is a special one as it's both Boutique Markets and Mathilda's Market rolled into one scrummy dual Christmas event at Byron Kennedy Hall.

our launch event at this gorgeous venue was truly fabulous! Sydneysiders streaming through the doors and shopping up a storm! I can't begin to tell you how excited I am!

2011-11-16T11:51:00.001+10:00

i am officially in love...and so in love with the new designs from Twine and Teacups

hello perth!

2011-11-11T07:08:00.001+10:00

Seems like I live at the airport these days! I'm off to Perth again this weekend for our gorgeous combined Christmas event featuring Mathilda's Market and Boutique Markets this Sunday from 9am - 1pm at the gorgeous Burswood Entertainment Complex.

In the last few weeks I have been to Hobart and Melbourne and have already begun collecting goodies from the markets to add to my Christmas present stash! I love picking up things from the markets for gifts, and this weekend will be no exception! I have my eye on the gorgeous moroccan pouffes pictured above... now which colour should I choose?

weddings

2011-11-10T09:59:00.001+10:00

this gorgeous picture is of my baby sister who recently was married here in Brisbane. Doesn't she look just gorgeous stood at the top of my front stairs... Taryn, my friend and the wedding photographer took literally thousands of pictures that day, but this would have to be my favourite!

amazing

2011-11-01T15:37:00.000+10:00

I can't even begin to tell you how lovely it is here. The most amazing wildflowers you've ever seen are growing in mass around the house. The House perched up on a sand dune above an isolated beach, a perfect haven for the kids to explore. I will leave you with some pictures we've taken over the last few days of our little tassie escape....and I havent even had to step out of the yard to take them...

hello tassie

2011-10-31T12:54:00.001+10:00

we have just arrived in Hobart after a our Qantas flight last night was cancelled. still no sign of Qantas answering their phones so after much debate we bit the bullet and paid the $1200 to fly here on Jetstar this morning. On a brighter note.....this place is amazing, and I am looking forward to sending the next few days catching up with my husband and kids after a monster few months at work.

sunday in melbourne

2011-10-29T14:21:00.001+10:00

take a peek at who's showcasing here

R&R

2011-10-27T23:46:00.000+10:00

limited edition Christmas postcards from Twine and Teacups

we are off to Melbourne in a few hours time. I know, it's almost midnight and everyone is asleep, but I am still up packing, and checking, and re-packing. Some silly person had the grand idea of booking the earliest flight to Melbourne (that would be me!) but with a 5.35am check-in, I think we will all be having a nanna nap by lunch time! I'm so looking forward to our family trip away. First stop Melbourne for a few days and to attend the gorgeous Christmas Boutique Markets on Sunday at Malvern Town Hall, and I've a few things on my shopping list!

home decor from Farmhouse Home

gourmet handmade puddings from Mandi's Kitchen

gorgeous jewellery from Magoolie Designs

And then on another plane Sunday night for a lazy week in Tasmania before the Christmas Mathilda's and Boutique Markets in Hobart on the 6th of November. Plus, I have just treated myself to the new i-phone, so happy snapping here we come!

hot off the press

2011-10-27T08:33:00.001+10:00

Open publication

Hot off the press is the gorgeous Issue 3 of Mathilda's Market e-zine, just in time for Christmas!

wedding bells

2011-10-25T07:12:00.002+10:00

image by Taryn Newland

wedding bells this past weekend as my baby sister walked down the aisle to her gorgeous husband to be! My friend Taryn and I styled the wedding and I must say we were quietly very proud of our achievements.

image by Taryn Newland

So it comes in very handy with a backyard wedding that you have access to lovely crisp white tents and umbrellas, with freshly laid lush green grass and candles and greenery a plenty, their intimate backyard wedding looked amazing! So I've included a few sneak peeks of the day, taken by Taryn, who doubled on the day as the wedding photographer and florist! Isn't she clever!

Xmas shopping....

2011-10-19T08:59:00.003+10:00

just a little excited about this market, can you tell?

market finds - coveting

2011-10-18T05:30:00.000+10:00

Make Me Iconic - prints

with the festive season just around the corner, I'm excited to say that the Boutique Markets Christmas events calendar will kick off in less than a fortnight in Melbourne. And boy have I found a heap of goodies to add to my christmas wish list!

Make Me Iconic - cushions

Make Me Iconic is a brand new company that is taking an entirely new tack on designer home wares and premium souvenirs, and they'll be showcasing at the Boutique Markets in Melbourne on Sunday October 30th.

Make Me Iconic - Tea Towels

Working with young, local designers their products make fresh things familiar and familiar things fresh. I am coveting their range of cushions, tea towels, mugs and screen-printed wall posters.

Make Me Iconic - cushions

Our second Boutique markets in Melbourne, this special Christmas event is going to be amazing, with a fabulous line-up of retailers, some of whom I'll be showcasing the coming week. If you are in Melbourne, then pop along, but be warned, it is going to be shopping heaven!

Boutique Markets, Melbourne Christmas Market, Sunday Oct 30th, Malvern Town Hall, 9am - 1pm

images : Make Me Iconic

wedding bells

2011-10-17T05:30:00.000+10:00

image : taryn newland

my little sister is getting married this weekend in Brisbane , and the whole family will be in town to celebrate. I have a rather large family, I'm one of 5 siblings, and when you add on respective partners and children, plus my parents, and their brothers and sisters (both from large families) you could say we could easily create a small town!

most excitingly though, we are in charge of the decorations, and by we, I mean, myself and my dear friend Taryn, who is also the gorgeous wedding photographer. We've had great fun over the past few months collecting bits and pieces for this special garden wedding, and I can't wait to show you! A little sneak peek above of what we are planning, mixes with white marquees and freshly picked garden flowers, it is going to be gorgeous!

little beauty

2011-10-11T14:51:00.004+10:00

this little beauty has found a new home in my lounge room. Purchased at Sunday's Boutique Market in Brisbane from Sivad Designs, it was love at first sight! It's an industrial floor lamp and it has oodles of character, with big chunky bolts on either side, I can adjust the direction of the light to illuminate artwork on the wall, so it will be perfect for our new house...

Brisbane - Pink Ribbon Boutique Markets

2011-10-07T19:07:00.000+10:00

this weekend in Brisbane is a very special Pink Ribbon Boutique Market, in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Hope to see you there!

2011-10-04T13:17:00.002+10:00

is it just me or do you dread the run into the end of the year as well. I have something on the next 10 weekends in a row, and then with one weekend to spare it will be Christmas. I used to laugh as a child on Christmas afternoon looking around the room to see all the grown ups dotted around the house asleep. I thought, how could they be so tired, they didn't get up as early as I did to open Christmas presents....

As an official grown up I now realise that they had probably been in 5th gear since October like me! Given half the chance to hit the brake, they did.... on Christmas afternoon.... I've already called shotgun to my favourite snooze spot on Christmas afternoon!

image - domayne

a tassie escape

2011-09-22T17:38:00.000+10:00

with a busy few months ahead, we've stolen a week in between work commitments for a lazy 7 days in Tasmania. Amazingly enough the planets have aligned and we've booked this gorgeous place, just a stones throw away from Hobart.

Whilst the idea of quite afternoon wines overlooking the bay and open fireplaces throughout the home have my heart racing, a tour of the cadbury factory for the kids and brewery tours for hubby are exciting the rest of the family too!

I fell in love with Tassie when I visited a month ago, but we only got a few days, so I'm so excited to be getting an opportunity to explore it again so soon!

tea

2011-09-02T07:06:00.000+10:00

image by Taryn Newland

spending the day today with my dear friend and work colleague Taryn sorting through the images from our August markets nationwide. Taryn, is my national market photographer and travels with me around the country to each event snapping the shoppers and gorgeous stalls who showcase. It will be a job and a half really as there will probably be over 3000 images to file thru. The problem with Taryn's shots is that they are all so good, so narrowing down the best ones is always a task in itself! This process will only work if done over numerous cups of tea!

almost there

2011-09-01T07:38:00.000+10:00

we are almost ready to sign our build contract for the new house. As much as I love our current home, it is becoming more apparent everyday they we need more room! This lovely lady is going get some much needed TLC in the next few months before she goes up for sale, only problem is I might fall in love with her all over again....

Hobart!

2011-08-30T08:11:00.000+10:00

this past weekend was extra special as I got to travel for the first time to Hobart for the launch of the Boutique Markets. I must say I had heard Hobart was pretty but it was beyond that - it was picture perfect, postcard like and I was in LOVE! And the people, beyond lovely, and up for a chat about anything and everything - so refreshing!

speaking of lovely, I got a chance to meet Ness from Marley and Lockyer who showcased at the event (you can check out her lovely post about it here), and I must say I did come home with a stash of her goodies! Her stall was calling my name from the moment she set up (as you can see from the first image). Exciting for me as I have been following Ness's blog for years.

plus, a got to catch up with Annie from Red Bamboo, whom I met when our market first launched in Brisbane back in 2007. Annie and her husband moved to Tasmania a few years back and I promised her that I would bring the market to Hobart and was thrilled that she could join us on the day and fill the room with the scent of her gorgeous candles! Check out her post about it here.

and finally after the market, my team and I got a chance to experience a little bit of Hobart. After a massive event the day before in Sydney, early flights and late nights plus the Hobart launch, the girls and I exhausted and the girls were actually holding on to this pole for support, so they didn't fall in a heap on the floor!

Hobart you have stolen my heart and I will be back! November 6th in fact for our gorgeous Christmas event! I can't wait!!!

so excited!

2011-08-25T20:34:00.000+10:00

this weekend is going to be huge! Flying to Sydney tomorrow with my team, for Saturday's HUGE event - which sees Mathilda's Market showcasing along side the LAUNCH of Boutique Markets in Sydney!

The venue is the gorgeous Byron Kennedy Hall - think, timber floors, ornate ceilings, large roman columns and stained glass windows...then fill it to the brim with the most gorgeous kids and lifestyle goodies you can think of! I am beyond excited!

then off on a plane to Hobart for Sunday's Boutique Markets launch in Hobart! And those in Hobart won't miss out on the big bang of Sydney's combined event, as Mathilda's Market is showcasing in Hobart, same day, same venue too! Giving shoppers double the reason to shop!

melbourne - this weekend!

2011-08-19T09:09:00.000+10:00

off again this weekend and it's back to Melbourne for Mathilda's Market! Kind of feeling quite familiar with the city now, and excited as this will be our last event in the grand old Hawthorn Town Hall.

This beauty is heritage listed and going in for some much needed restoration, and from what I hear will be transforming itself into an art gallery!

if you are in Melbourne this Sunday, Mathilda's Market is a must! Full to the brim with the most gorgeous kids stuff you've ever seen! It's kids shopping heaven!

hmmm...

2011-08-16T18:27:00.000+10:00

some days I have trouble answering the trickiest of questions... take today for example, my youngest pipes up with this "Mum, how did they fold up the big big trees and fit them inside the tiny tiny seeds?"

simplicity

2011-08-16T07:40:00.000+10:00

how cute is this, and completely do-able! some wire and some buttons.......easy!

Brisbane - Mathilda's Market

2011-08-05T20:57:00.001+10:00

great news for Brisbane mums and kids with tomorrow's much anticipated Mathilda's Market being held in Ascot! A perfect day out with over 90 stalls to entice, and great gourmet food, and fabulous kids entertainment! Hope to see you there!

extra special trip

2011-08-04T18:56:00.000+10:00

in a few weeks time I'm off to Hobart for a the launch of the Boutique Markets in Tasmania. Now if that isn't exciting enough, I am also getting to meet in real life the lovely Ness from Marley and Lockyer who is showcasing her gorgeous homewares at the event.

Over the years I have collected many gorgeous items from Ness, including the gorgeous cushions that I have on my bed, and a lovely assortment of white clay tags. My trip to Hobart will certainly include a little shopping spree at her stall, and I must admit, I can't wait!

So if you are in Hobart on the 28th of August and you fancy a spot of indulgent shopping, then Boutique Markets is the place to do it! Plus, the event will also showcase Mathilda's Market so now there is two good reasons to come along!

frequent flyer points

2011-08-03T12:07:00.000+10:00

I think they know me by name at the airport these days - I'm not complaining though! I'm home this weekend which will be lovely, but then I'm off on a trip around the country as Boutique Markets launches into Perth, Sydney and Hobart, and I'm very excited! Plus all of these trips are helping me pile up a nice little bundle of frequent flyer points, that perhaps I will use one day on a non work related trip....

for you

2011-08-02T07:52:00.000+10:00

a pretty little posy for you, just because....

blending in

2011-08-01T07:08:00.000+10:00

almost ready to sign our house build contract, and the uneasy task of blending styles begins. We've been in a Queenslander for over 7 years which lends itself to an eclectic mix of styles. My type of thing, as I have bits and pieces from multiple different styles.

now I have to throw into the mix a shiny new modern looking home, which is beginning to make it all sound a bit too hard! Is it possible to give a brand new home character? I hope so!

Spring Issue - Mathilda's Magazine

2011-07-28T06:56:00.001+10:00

Open publication

I'm so excited today because our gorgeous SPRING e-issue of Mathilda's Magazine has arrived and I'm chomping at the bit to share it with you! A labour of love behind the scenes and cleverly created by some extra talented women, this issue is super special as we've interviewed 2 equally creative women in Katrina and Amie from the Block. Katrina, the lovely designer of my blog and Mathilda's Market blog. Thanks Katrina!

warm fuzzy feelings...

2011-07-22T16:59:00.001+10:00

If you picked up today's Brisbane Courier Mail and were mesmerized by the gorgeous ceramics in the Cover story of the CM2 lift out, then I have a lovely story to tell you! They are by a darling lady and very talented ceramic artist, Kim Aitken, a regular at the Boutique Markets in Brisbane.

Kim has been with us at the market for almost a year and has been delighting shoppers with her quirky colourful range of ceramics. A few months ago, a couple who had seen Kim's gorgeous work at the Boutique Markets approached her to create their entire serving ware range for their Sushi and Saki Bar. Their business, and serving ware had been damaged during the recent Brisbane floods.

Kim was thrilled to bits, as was I, for her. The fact that Boutique Markets provided an opportunity for this talented creative artist is a real buzz for me! You can see Kim's gorgeous designs at this Sunday's July 24th Boutique Markets in Brisbane!

white stuff!

2011-07-13T07:38:00.000+10:00

it's amazing what a couple of days off can do and equally as amazing what a buzz a trip to the snow with the family does! A few precious days at Mt Baw Baw, an hour and a bit from Melbourne and some gold old tobogganing fun! Here's my little man, with his toboggan, he went down the slope, then ran back up, I'd say at least 100 times! He was having so much fun!

my husband and I gave it a go (pic above is hubby) however, both of us realised very quickly that the older the body the more you feel the bumps on the way down and then the climb back up the hill to the top is just as painful.....

My daughter had it sussed though, very quickly realising that as much as the toboggan ride down was fun, it was exhausting to keep walking back up the hill. So she ditched hers and built a snowman. And for those of us (me included) who thought these things were easy to build... it was hard!

so we are home now in sunny Brisbane and back at school, deflated to be back in reality. One exciting thing though, our house build contract is ready to sign! I'm thinking the next holiday plans will need to be put on the back burner....

r & r and a market launch!

2011-07-04T21:31:00.000+10:00

this is where I will be in a few days, with my hubby and kids roasting golden brown marshmallows or chestnuts over the fire. A few precious days R & R before a busy market launch in Melbourne.

Boutique Markets launches in Melbourne this weekend (Sunday July 10, 9am - 1pm) at the gorgeous Hawthorn Town Hall and here at Boutique HQ we have been working til the wee hours of the morning preparing every last detail!

It's even more exciting as I get to share the experience with my husband and children who will travel to Melbourne with me, and to celebrate we are sneaking a few well deserved family days in beforehand will a little stay up near Mt Buller in a converted barn/farm stay.

No rest for the wicked though, with Magazine deadlines and last minute market details to organise, a girls best friend (my laptop and ipad will be by my side) so even though after a day in the snow with the family I will be heading back to the cottage to relax in front of the cosy wood heater, I will still be able to check my emails. Tragic isn't it!

For those blog enthusiasts, the lovely A-M from The House that A-M Built will be my special guest at our launch market in Melbourne so come and say hello!

infinity times infinity....

2011-06-25T10:32:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited that Twine and Teacups will be showcasing at tomorrow's Boutique Markets at Portside Wharf in Brisbane! And extra exciting is you'll be able to pick up some of their new range of hand stamped gift tags! If you are not a Brisvegas local, don't worry, Twine and Teacups will be showcasing around the country as Boutique Markets launches nationwide, starting with our July 10th Launch market in Melbourne, also showcasing Brisbane favourite Mondo Cherry. And then they are off to the Boutique Markets launches in Sydney, Hobart and Perth!

calling all animal lovers!

2011-06-07T20:33:00.001+10:00

so it's time for a bit of fun, and this Sunday at the Boutique Markets in Brisbane is going to be a kids delight! Our annual event is back on, and we are calling all 2 legged and four legged creatures to Portside Wharf in Hamilton for a day of good old fashioned fun!

Ranger Stacey from Channel 10's Totally Wild will be there from 10 til 12pm, plus the crew from Geckoes Wildlife are coming too with a range of animals, including big snakes, crocodile, big lizards, an owl, tawny frogmouth, mammals including a wombat and possum! We've got a baby animal petting zoo, free face painting for the kiddies and great activities with the Sand Wizard! And on top of all that, the kids can enter their pet in our Best Dressed Pet comp!

Come along this Sunday June 12th, from 8am - 1pm at Portside Wharf!

lazy weekends

2011-06-03T19:17:00.001+10:00

this weekend is the first in a long time that I don't have to be up by 5am for work. Today I put fresh sheets on my bed in preparation for a weekend of morning sleep ins and afternoon naps! I washed them and let them hang on the line and fill up with that 'dried by the sunshine' smell and once dry put them on my bed! I poofed up all the pillows and can wait til bedtime to slide my feet into fresh crisp white sheets! I love lazy weekends!

magazine launch!

2011-05-20T12:18:00.000+10:00

Open publication

I have been busy busy busy - and this is why... We launched our very first e-zine! A quarterly online (and FREE!) publication, Mathilda’s Magazine is filled to the brim with expert advice, stories of interest and the must have items that will be showcased at markets around the country. Throw in some fabulous freebies and exclusive shopping deals and we just know you are going to l

lovely wall art

2011-05-16T21:30:00.000+10:00

thought I'd share with you some lovely wall art from talented photographer and stylist, Taryn Newland. The gorgeous collection, is now available to purchase in her lovely new online store Twine and Teacups.

Such simple elegant designs, and I am hooked - the two above a few of my favourites from her range!

hello melbourne!

2011-05-12T13:17:00.000+10:00

packing the bag today for a trip to Melbourne this weekend for the first our May markets nationwide! I must say the cool temps are a little worrying and my winter Brisbane wardrobe will not be making the grade! I'm hoping to take some QLD sunshine with me.... as long as I don't get charged excess baggage!

it's official!

2011-05-06T07:15:00.001+10:00

with a very exciting few weeks behind us, I had to spill the beans! We have bought ourselves a block of land! Finally after so long contemplating whether or not to renovate our lovely home, we took the plunge (in the other direction) and fell in love with a lovely flat bock! Funnily enough, it's on the top of a hill, so I won't have to change my blogs title... the house on top of the hill! (translated into English). So we are knee deep in plans and currently spending the weekends drooling room by room through display homes!

today's mantra

2011-04-11T07:19:00.000+10:00

Tea Towel - by Nadine Sawyer Visual Artist

today I am on a buzz after the most gorgeous market day at Boutique Markets yesterday! This lovely pic, taken by Taryn, was one of many shots taken at yesterday's market and it sums up perfectly how I am feeling about life at the moment! To see the whole album of gorgeous images from yesterday's market, pop over here....

yummy!

2011-04-08T07:08:00.001+10:00

image : taryn newland

look at these gorgeous handmade ceramic bowls from Brisbane's very own Kim Aitken. Kim was recently approached at the markets by a Paddington sushi and sake bar to make all of their new dining room servingware after their restaurant was destroyed by the recent floods. Kim will be at Sunday's Boutique Markets at Portside Wharf, so come along and grab yourself a bowl or two or three....

who knew....

2011-04-05T08:23:00.000+10:00

have a business meeting today, I am meeting a man to discuss chocolate! Yes, you heard me, chocolate! Who knew my job could be this much fun!!!!

this sunday. April 10th

2011-04-04T05:00:00.005+10:00

big things are happening at the Boutique Markets in 2011, and for a little taste of what's on offer pop along to our April 10th market in Brisbane. If you are not a Brisbane native, make sure you sign up to our mailing list, cause you never know, you just might see us in your neck of the woods very soon!

in a spin...

2011-03-31T07:50:00.000+10:00

so it's been almost 2 years since we made the decision to renovate our home. Had plans drafted, even put them into council mid last year, only to pull them out again halfway through the process in a moment of "oh my god, are we doing the right thing!" We've watched the houses either side of us, either sell or be renovated. Seems like everyone else is moving forward except us. I love my house, I mean, I am really emotionally attached to it, but it is too small for us now. We've been looking for months for the perfect house to buy, but nothing is even remotely holding my interest. Let's hope this weekends open houses delivers the perfect home... fingers crossed!

sydney here we come!!!

2011-03-24T22:41:00.000+10:00

I'm all packed a nd ready to jump on a plane in the mroning for my first mathilda's market in Sydney and what a treat it will be!!! Some of my favourite Mathilda's Market retailers including Pip and Co who showcase the most amazing range of wall decor I have seen in a long time!

Whether you have a child who needs a bit of a bedroom makeover or are a child at heart, their whimsical wall art is just divine!

To check out the full compliment of retailers showcasing on Saturday at our first Sydney market for 2011, pop over to the gorgeous Paddington Town Hall from 9am - 1pm for a spot of indulgent shopping, or take a sneak peek on our website!

you know you'll love it!

2011-03-24T07:03:00.000+10:00

after many weekend interstate with Mathilda's market, I am so excited to be back in Brisbane for Sunday's Boutique Markets at Portside Wharf. And with so many new designers showcasing, I think a bit of retail therapy is in order!

so come an join me on Sunday when the weather in Brisbane is set to finally cool down, enjoy some breakfast in the cafes in the precinct and then hit the market from 8am for a spot of indulgent shopping! You know you'll love it!

images : Taryn Newland

i admit it...

2011-03-21T07:02:00.001+10:00

I admit to being not the best cleaner, but I try my best. I admit to being not the best cook, but I'll give it a go! I admit to be not the most organised, but I'm trying hard to become more organised. However I do admit to having an ironing lady.... I couldn't live without her! Now I am not a bad ironer at all, in fact my mother spent lots of time and effort showing me how to ironing correctly! This is one thing though in my busy working week that I chose to raise the white flag too!

just one more thing....

2011-03-18T08:36:00.000+10:00

It's so nice when friday comes around and everything is set to spend a lazy weekend relaxing. So one final thing to be done, change the sheets on all the beds and then.....

and nothing beats entering the weekend with fresh linen on the bed! Perfect for a lazy weekend nanna nap!

adelaide and brisbane this weekend...

2011-03-10T07:20:00.000+10:00

this weekend is going to be a crazy shopping extravaganza if you are in Brisbane or Adelaide. Starting off with our first Mathilda's Market for the year in Brisbane on Saturday.

for those with little ones, you are in for a treat with Mathilda's Market coming to Adelaide this weekend! I haven't been back to Adelaide now for a few years and I thrilled to be jetting in on Saturday evening just in time for Sunday's fabulous market - can't wait!

and on Sunday for Brisbanites, is the gorgeous Boutique Markets at Portside Wharf, with a gorgeous line up of gourmet food, clothing, home wares and more to tempt you!

how do you....

2011-03-07T07:10:00.001+10:00

after a busy weekend interstate I am looking for some calm and tranquility today. Unfortunately I am one of those people that can't sit still - how do you relax?

Canberra, here I come!

2011-03-05T00:10:00.000+10:00

after a whirlwind trip to Melbourne last weekend, my bags are packed again and I'm off to Canberra this weekend for the first Mathilda's Market in ACT for the year! It's been such a long time since I visited Canberra, and I'm excited to return.I have already started my shopping list!

melbourne here we come!

2011-02-25T22:23:00.000+10:00

bags packed, ticket printed.....Melbourne here we come!

london bus signs in brisbane!

2011-02-23T06:12:00.000+10:00

don't you just love these gorgeous London Bus Signs! London destinations dating back to the 70’s and 80’s used on the iconic red double decker London buses. They are hand stenciled vintage originals from a destination blind used on the Routemaster buses in London.

They come with a certification sticker attached to each framed sign to ensure you are buying originals and not reproductions. A real treasure for those who love typography, iconic design or just want a little of bit of London history.

PLUS they available at the Boutique Markets this Sunday, from these gorgeous girls!

an exciting weekend ahead...

2011-02-22T06:14:00.002+10:00

the last few months have been super busy and it all culminates into this week for me, the launch of our second Boutique Market per month, which is happy this Sunday at the gorgeous Portside Wharf

soothing sounds of Chris Palmer

With a treasure trove of new and talented designers on the line up for our second market and the added bonus of crusie ship in Port, the day is set to be as colourful as ever! Make sure you stop by, 8m - 1pm, Portside Wharf.

and a little further from home the first market on Mathilda's Market schedule for the year is at Hawthorn Town hall in Melbourne. This one is extra special, as I took over Mathilda's in December last year, and it will be my first market at the helm.

if you are in Melbourne this weekend and plan on a trip to Mathilda's market, pop over to the website and check out the line up of stallholders.... start writing your shopping list! I know I have!

simple things

2011-02-15T06:18:00.000+10:00

there is nothing so simple and perfect than glass and string and basic knots. No hype, no fuss, just plain perfection. This is going to be my mantra this year, "simple things, done well!"

happy valentines day!

2011-02-14T07:14:00.000+10:00

what can I say, hope someone throws you back and plants a big wet one right on you today! Happy Valentines Day to the man who puts up with me through it all, and is still happy help me the cleaning and the cooking!

Boutique Markets this Sunday

2011-02-12T15:58:00.000+10:00

tomorrow is our first Boutique Market back at Portside Wharf for 2011 and I am so excited! Firstly because I am going to pick up my lovely husband something special for Valentine's Day, and secondly because I have roped him into coming along tomorrow and working for me (free of charge of course) so I get to spend the whole day with him! I think I might have t pick up a pack of Authentic French Macarons lovely Valentines Day gift boxes too - yum!

nine....

2011-01-31T08:09:00.001+10:00

can't believe my baby girl is nine today - Happy Birthday Gorgeous! May it always be about picking pretty flowers....

boys....

2011-01-21T19:19:00.000+10:00

if you have one then you'll know what I mean when I say never ending energy! This was my little man yesterday doing jumps off the jetty at a friends holiday house up the Sunshine Coast. Between him and his two little mates I think they jumped no less than 100 times! Different poses each time, flips and somersaults and bombs, each one heralding cheers from each other and an expectation that their next jump had to be better than the last....

they were at it for over an hour and a half, jumping, swimming to the shore, running up the beach and then back along the jetty to jump again!

after their energy eventually wore off, they sat on the edge of the jetty, chatting away like old men! So cute!

a bit of r & r

2011-01-19T09:26:00.000+10:00

with no less than 9 markets to co-ordinate nationally over the next 6 weeks, things are starting to get hectic at work. The kids return to school next week and we've decided to take a few days to ourselves to re-group and relax before things get really busy. So we are off to the Sunshine Coast for a few days to feel the sand between our toes...

how heavy is heavy enough?

2011-01-12T10:29:00.000+10:00

and we sit in wait for the water to come down, it's amazing the affect this flooding has had just on my small little circle of friends and relatives. My parents from central QLD who arrived before Xmas are stranded now in Brisbane, and can't get home. My sister and family due to arrive today from Nth QLD for a 4 day holiday have diverted their travel to Sydney instead. My other sister, and ambo has headed off to work in the city today, but is unsure once there if she will get home. And my storage for the Boutique Markets is on the wharf at Hamilton, directly alongside the river. A watertight shipping container, and I assume it's heavy enough to stay put, given it's weight and the weight of it's contents...however the image above from the 74 floods would suggest maybe not....

enough already

2011-01-10T10:31:00.000+10:00

the ground is soaked and muddy, the clothes dryer humming 24 hours, the kids just want to go outside and play, and quite frankly I've had enough..... Not to mention the poor flood ravaged residents of South East QLD. Please Mr Sunshine, can you come back soon.... QLD is meant to be the Sunshine State after all.....

image : source unknown

Merry Christmas and see you in 2011

2010-12-15T10:43:00.000+10:00

after a busy year, it's time to take a break, and spend some much deserved timed with my family and friends. So this is me signing off for 2010 and looking forward to visiting you all in 2011!

last chance!!!

2010-12-11T22:18:00.001+10:00

The Paper Tie Affair

Ruby and Belle

Mondo Cherry

Our Kitchen Garden

tomorrow is the final Boutique Markets for 2010, and the last chance to take home something gorgeous for yourself for Christmas! Our twilight market on friday night was a huge success and after a mention on friday's nights 7pm project, we hoping the crowds will come agian today to our gorgeous Christmas Market.

Sunday December 12th,

8am - 3pm

Portside Wharf, Hamilton

upclose in the Brisbane News

2010-12-09T06:32:00.005+10:00

wow, what an honour to have even been asked to do a story in the Brisbane News, but more humbling to be interviewed for the upclose and personal article published in this weeks magazine. I am so humbled by the experience, and quietly a little embarrassed to think that anyone would care to read about little ol me, even though I am so proud of what I have achieved and want to scream it out loud!

christmas theming

2010-12-08T06:09:00.000+10:00

blue and white china balls displayed in a cloche in my dining room

with Christmas only minutes away, I have begun to think about the theming I'd like for my gift wrapping. I know a bit anal, which I'm really not, but I do like a bit of co-ordinated Christmas wrapping. Drawing inspiration from the blue and white in my home, I'm toying with the idea of these colours as the perfect Christmas colour combo.

Blue and white cushion in my family room

collecting gingers jars for display in my dining room

gorgeous frames from mondo cherry

all wrapped up and sitting neatly under my tree, I think it will look fabulous!

one of those days...

2010-12-07T12:33:00.001+10:00

it's raining in Brisbane today, and all I want to do is grab a good book, a cup of tea, curl up on the couch and relax with the kids. Alas this is not to be, I have two special christmas markets to prepare for this weekend in Brisbane, and I shouldn't complain about the rain, as this time last year we were sweltering with unbearable temps in the mid thirties....

image : taryn newland

exciting news...

2010-12-06T06:00:00.002+10:00

I have been a little busy of late and my poor blog has been neglected, and I'm excited to finally tell you why....

As of today, I am the new owner of Mathilda's Market. Mathilda's Market is home to the most gorgeous baby and kids goods. Carefully handpicked stall holders bringing you divine and original clothing, accessories, homewares and toys for the little ones. Designed by some of Australia's most talented crafters and designers, many of them parents themselves.

Mathilda's Markets are held in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide. Please don't forget to join our eNewsletter to find out about the latest Mathilda's Market news and dates for 2011. I'll be visiting each market in each state in 2011, so would love you to come and say hi!

three wise men.....

2010-12-02T07:02:00.001+10:00

I'm holding my eyes up with tooth picks this morning after a late night working on some media items for our upcoming Christmas Markets. 2 am came round really quickly and as I sat there in my lounge room, cellophane and ribbon in one hand, scissors in the other, these little guys above (part of our nativity scene) were staring at me and I think perhaps having a silent chuckle to themselves!

I began to think about these guys and how media savvy they actually really were! So here's how I look at it - 3 blokes, couple of 1000 years ago, probably on some sort of fishing trip or something, catch a few camels across town, get lost and won't admit they need to ask for directions, then spot a star and decide to follow it, take the Christmas presents they'd bought for their wives out of their back pockets and hand them to some little baby in a barn! Hey presto, international media exposure for like 1000's of years!!!!

Now there was now camels in my Christmas media story but yesterday I did have a lady in a people mover, with a couple of kids in the back, delivering handmade vintage Christmas tags, perched precariously at the very top of my very steep driveway! Thanks Clare for making the extra effort!

images : taryn newland

a perfect christmas tree

2010-12-01T06:00:00.000+10:00

the kids and I spent Sunday afternoon putting up the Christmas tree. I watched them excitedly pull the baubles out of the bag, 'oooing' and 'ahhhhing' with each new pretty thing they found to hang.

these gorgeous images of our tree were snapped by my dear friend Taryn, who kindly popped over with her camera the other day, and they are just perfect don't you think!!!

a christmas tradition....

2010-11-25T06:22:00.000+10:00

things are moving a light speed in my office with 2 fabulous Christmas markets only a blink of an eye away, I haven't had a chance to catch my breath! If you are in Brisbane on the weekend of 10th, and 12th of December, then add a trip to the markets to your list. It is fast becoming a Brisbane Christmas tradition...you won't want to miss it!

tis the season...

2010-11-24T07:14:00.000+10:00

Christmas is almost here and in my household that means my favourite fruits of the year are in season. Starting with cherries, the perfect Christmas and summertime fruit, red and ripe and juicy! I have a bowl of them sitting on the kitchen bench and with everyone helping themselves through out the day, they certainly don't last very long in our house...

coffee.....

2010-11-19T06:31:00.000+10:00

as I sip my morning coffee, all I can think about is the coffee I will be drinking this weekend in Melbourne! I'm beyond excited, even though the task of organising one husband and 2 children for 3 days whilst I'm away has been a bit of ordeal. I've resigned myself to the fact that they will just eat junk food all weekend, even though I've stocked the fridge with fresh fruit and veg, that they are most likely not going to go to bed on time. They'll even probably get to school late on Monday morning, probably in the wrong uniform - sounds like chaos to me!!! But what do I care, I will be sitting quietly in a little coffee shop in Melbourne, reading a magazine without a care in the world.....bring it on!!!!

a quick trip

2010-11-17T08:02:00.000+10:00

I'm off to Melbourne on Saturday for a few days for work and I can't wait! I did for a millisecond contemplate the 'just carry-on luggage' cheaper flight option....... thankfully I came to my senses!!!

start your christmas shopping....

2010-11-12T08:08:00.000+10:00

www.boutiquemarkets.com.au

Come visit me this Sunday and start your Chritsmas shopping.....

Portside Wharf - 39 Hercules St Hamilton, Brisbane

beautiful brisvegas

2010-11-08T08:23:00.000+10:00

this weekend gone, my husband and I had the rare treat of spending 2 days together, child free. With 2 tickets to the Food and Wine Show, we spent a leisurely afternoon roaming the around, sampling wine and gorgeous goodies, with not a care in the world.

As evening drew, we set off back to the Marriott where we were staying, with evening cocktails on the terrace, and a short stroll to our favourite restaurant for a fabulous dinner.

and with a view like the one above which I took from our room, I knew that Brisbane had turned on the sparkle for us. Once the lights of the Story Bridge came on, it was just gorgeous! Hooray for babysitters!

a room with a view

2010-11-04T05:23:00.000+10:00

tis the silly season in my neck of the woods, and I am spending more and more time in the office preparing for the busy christmas market period. Still I can't complain, the view above greets me each day as I gaze through the french doors in my office. And to think that many stare outside their inner city office block windows to a view of concrete or traffic!

happy weekend

2010-10-29T06:21:00.001+10:00

the weekend is almost here and i have a spring in my step for a few very good reasons! Firstly, after what seems like an awfully long wait, my agapanthus are about to flower - I love this time of year, when my garden is filled with what the kids called purple and white chuppachup flowers! Secondly, I am donning the heels and the lipstick for a night on the town with the girls tonight and last but not least we are going window shopping for some acreage land. So exciting!