Botanical Inspiration: A Costa Rican Landscape

I just returned from a week long yoga retreat in Costa Rica. The country's lush landscape is abundant in hues of greens, layered leafs, rich textures and unusual flowers.  I was completely in awe of it, but what really mesmerized me were the sounds of its rain forest canopies.  I've never heard so many interesting insect calls, howling monkeys and tropical birds.  Even the jeeps and motor bikes traveling on gravel roads and beeping their horns seemed to contribute to the busy jungle noise.  Unfortunately, I don't have an audio of what I heard, but I can provide a visual of the beautiful botanicals I encountered.  Take a look:

I hope to one day return with my family.  Costa Rica is truly an amazing place.  

The Cass Clutch: Photo Shoot, Sale And Benefit

 A greenhouse at The Ruth Bancroft Garden was the setting for Cass Clutch's Spring photo shoot.  Showcasing all its colors we captured  the ease and elegance of the handbag.  For Mother's Day we're running a sale with a special purpose.  All the Cass clutches are 25% off, with 10% of the profits benefiting Bloom, a San Rafael based organization that provides complimentary wardrobes and job skills' training to women, men and children in the Bay area.  If ever you wanted to own a Cass Clutch or gift one to your Mom or a special friend, your time is now. 

Use code Bloom2017 online at www.thecassclutch.com at check out to receive your discount.

Thank you!

Table Top: An Easter Table Setting

This year's Easter table setting is inspired by a garland Zoe selected at a nearby Home Goods store.  It took some serious persuading for her to relinquish the wooden medallions as holiday table decorations, but after witnessing their effect she was all in.  New place mats from World Market will provide the backdrop for vintage Russel Wright dishes and Heath Ceramic bowls, flanked by brass and wooden flatware.  Small botanical arrangements from our own garden will adorn each setting, lending more table space for the Easter menu (which hasn't been finalized yet) and lots of Rose!  

Whether you're celebrating Easter, Pascha or Passover, we wish you all a very happy and joyful holiday!

From our holiday table to yours...

The Way We Live: A Fashion Designer's Home

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Nanette Mervin of Ginger at her home in Berkley.  We got together to discuss collaborating on a photo shoot featuring her stylish caftans and The Cass Clutch, but I had an ulterior motive.   Having seen images of her home on Instagram and admiring her style, I knew it was going to be an amazing space to photograph for my blog.  Sooo, I brought along my camera and without any advance notice, I convinced her to let me take some snapshots of it.  She was a bit apprehensive at first, but as we discussed what makes a house a home (in my opinion*), and the criteria at play before I consider doing a "The Way We Live" feature, she graciously obliged.

Nan's passion for art, vintage glass and fashion is showcased in each of the rooms adding warmth, creativity and substance to the entire home.  Her caftans are offsprings of 'something old made new again' just like The Cass Clutch is.  

I'm so glad to have met her and look forward to working together in the future.  In the mean time, take a tour of this very unique home.

Thank you, Nanette, for sharing your beautiful home with my readers!

*"The Way We Live" features spaces that reflect the character, interests and personality of their inhabitants.  Spaces that are both lived in and deliberately appointed. 

Botanical Inspiration: My Very Own Image

About 6 months ago, I was asked by Tucker, an Organic T-Shirt company, if it could feature one of my botanical images on its tops.  They chose a photo of a Phormium plant I had taken in Berkeley for their Swing shirt.  I just received mine and I love the way it looks and feels.   Check out it here.