BelleInspirationSept2012

Belle

Inspiration Sept/Oct 2012

Living Life to the Fullest CELEBRATING LA JOIE DE VIVRE 2 Year Anniversary Issue

The view from our table on our cover, Paris

Because a woman loves so many things...

Sept/October 2012 Bonjour, Welcome to our 2 year anniversary issue. What an adventure it has been here at Belle headquarters. It has been an amazing experience working with so many talented witers, photograpahers, and business owners. To our readers, to put it simply, you are the best!

The only thing that I can say to everyone is Merci beaucoup!

Here we are heading into Autumn, which means cool weather, cozy sweaters, and those boots we’ve been waiting to pull on all summer. This Autumn issue is an eclectic mix of women who are living life to the fullest. Ashley Le Meiux founded The Shine Project, with the goal of making the lives of deserving young people better. She is an inspiration.

Vintage Elegance is a new clothing design business focused on the quality and beauty of vintage fabrics and laces. Michele Rosenthal shares a few of her favorite things at The Paris House, and we welcome Elissa Villines Shaw who shares two luscious recipes with us. Don’t miss the feature on the classic Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath, England by Toma Clark Haines.

A tempting café on the Rive Droit in Paris graces our cover. Your table awaits with heaters at the ready for chilly evenings as you slowly make your way through a delectable meal with someone special.

Enjoy!

Be sure and catch these generous discounts being offered by the following advertisors:

A Bientôt,

The Beautiful Life - 10% French Garden House -10% The French Elements -15%

Editor-in-Chief

CELEBRATING LA JOIE DE VIVRE 4

Inside this Issue!

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The Shine Project

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Tic Toc - French Clocks

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The Vintage Nest

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Rustic Wild Maine - Blueberry Galette

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Bella Bella Studios

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Vintage Elegance… Inspired by Romance

61 Postcards from Paris - Café Life

Ashley Le Mieux Cheryl Johannes Lynn Wheeler Elissa Villines Shaw

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Stephanie Henning Karen Tibbett Temple Tsenes-Hills

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The Paris House

Michele Rosenthal

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Lobster Thermidor - A Revolutionary Classic Done Simply Elissa Villlines Shaw

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Flowers… Southern High Style

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The Antiques Diva Goes to Bath

Rhonda Spiers

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Toma Clark Haines

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Cover Photo: Mimi Bleu 6

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Publisher Inspired Ink Media Founder, Editor in Chief Mimi Bleu Copy Editor Tina Repoff Editorial Assistant Marcelle Thomas Art Director Sylvie Bernard

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CopyrightŠ 2012 All contents protected by copyright and cannot be reproduced without first obtaining written permission. All rights reserved in all countries.

All inquiries should be directed to: belleinspiration@gmail.com.

Recipes have not been kitchen tested by us, so must be used at reader’s discretion.

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About The Shine Project: by Ashley LeMieux I started a blog last year called The Shine Project to motivate people to make a change in their lives, find happiness, and live a higher quality of life. I traveled around the United States setting up service projects to get people involved in their communities. As The Shine Project grew, I knew that I could use that platform to influence a greater good.

This past year as The Shine Project has led me to start up a non-profit organization, The Shine Scholarship Project, my life has changed. We have blessed some really amazing high school students to help them pay for college.

Our mission is to improve the lives of at risk youth through service, education, and family involvement. We set up service projects in the community to help them learn leadership skills and build their confidence, and we raise money to send them to college. You can watch what we've accomplished and who we've touched here.

Ashley LeMieux Founder, The Shine Project

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A few months ago I started getting antsy and realized that my journey helping these youth was just beginning. I knew I needed to create a way to provide more opportunities for them, especially after they graduate high school and are transitioning into college.

It's hard to get donations, and government funding for educational purposes is extremely low, and I knew I needed to create a business that would help sustain my amazing students even after their scholarship money ran out. That's when the idea of Threads was born.

Threads is a cause driven business that changes the future of at risk youth. They come from various backgrounds, but all have one thing in common, they want to break the cycle. By employing them, we instill values of self reliance and hard work.

They are paid fair wages for the bracelets they make, and in turn are able to pay their way through school. Many of Threads employees are first generation college students.

They dream of becoming nurses, broadcasters, writers and engineers.

Your purchase will directly impact a student. Even beyond financial support, your belief in them is a symbol of hope and trust that they can achieve what for so long seemed impossible. By purchasing Threads you are wearing more than just a bracelet, you are wearing change.

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Right now we have 10 student employees working at Threads. The more bracelets we sell; the more kids we can employ; the more education we will help give to the future leaders of our country. And boy, are they going to be leaders.

We've been selling the bracelets to people across the world, and to boutiques in the United States. Out of 20,000 stores on our hosting site, we've been in the top 15 since we launched and couldn't be more grateful.

You can go shop around for Threads and see all our styles here.

And make sure when you purchase your Threads, that you tag us on instagram @theshineproject in your new arm swag so we can feature you!

We’d be so grateful to have you help us spread Threads by Facebooking, Tweeting, and Pinning it for your friends to see and get involved.

Read more about Ashley LeMieux at her blog: www.myshineproject.com.

Shop at Threads: www.theshineproject.storenvy.com

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Tic Toc ~ French Clocks Article & Photos: Cheryl Johannes When I think of antique French clocks the first ones that come to mind are the 17th to 19th century highly ornamented clocks covered in gilt bronze, known as ormolu, that my mother collected and displayed on the living room mantle.

But my style is not that formal and I found the smaller late 19th century and early 20th century French mechanical alarm clocks more appealing.

My collection began in the early 1990s when I spotted a charming little table clock at a brocante in northern France. In recent years, interest has been increasing in these little clocks and the prices are starting to reflect this trend.

JAZ and JAPY alarm clocks are the most popular French alarm clocks. The first JAZ clocks date from late 1800s. Dating a vintage JAZ clock is easy for the collector.

Until 1941, JAZ clocks only had the inscription 'JAZ' above the number 6 on the clock face. From 1942 until 1967 a little bird (Jaseur Boréal) was added above the JAZ inscription with one very significant detail the bird's tail is directed downward.

Clocks made by JAZ from 1967 to 1975 have the bird's tail directed upward.

After 1975 the word JAZ is inscribed below the number 12.

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With this information you can now be more certain of the age of your discovery of a vintage JAZ clock at a brocante or flea market.

JAPY vintage alarm clocks are more difficult to find than JAZ alarm clocks. JAPY French alarm clocks were designed and manufactured by Frederick Japy (1749-1812).

In 1810 he started a factory at Baderel, France. The company grew and became one of the great 19th century industrial firms for clocks, watches, locks, kitchen ware, and dinner ware. After his death in 1812 his five sons formed Japy Frères. JAPY production ceased around 1930.

In 1896, Albert Villon associated himself with Paul Duverdrey and Joseph Bloquel and the three created the clock company known as Albert Villon, Duverdrey et Bloquel which operated under that name until Villon’s death in 1902.

It was then renamed Duverdrey & Bloquel, and in 1928 the company was once again renamed to Bayard. From 1928 to about 1932, many of the clocks produced were stamped with both names - Duverdrey & Bloquel - Bayard on the clock mechanism; and finally only Bayard.

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With the increasing mechanization of the manufacturing process, Bayard clocks were mass produced and exported to the four corners of the world during the 1930's. The company ceased operations in the 1950s.

Vintage French mechanical alarm clocks rarely work unless they’ve been professionally cleaned and repaired.

Often the keys on the backside of the mechanical alarm clock are missing making it difficult to wind daily.

Both JAZ and JAPY offered their clocks in a variety of exterior case colors – red, blue, green, aqua, pink, white.

Some collectors prefer one color while others like to combine colors.

Bayard alarm clocks were usually brass or silver with black cases.

While they may no longer “tic-toc” small vintage French mechanical clocks add interest to a vignette of vintage lace, French linens and old worn leather books. Group a few together in same colors or various styles on a mantle or table.

For very little money, you too can collect these charming early French alarm clocks.

Article and photos courtesy of Cheryl Johannes, owner of Casual Cottage Chic, (www.casualcottagechic.com). Her booth is located in Serendipity Antiques: www.serendipitycountryseller.com/.

Cheryl also writes the blog: http://casualcottagechic.typepad.com/this-and-that/

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The Vintage Nest A Conversation with Boutique Owner Lynn Wheeler

My name is Lynn M. Wheeler and I am the owner of the online boutique, The Vintage Nest, with a blog of the same name. When buying vintage and antique home and garden dĂŠcor, you are not spending money but investing in your home.

Unique decorations that say it’s a collected home and celebrates the individual character of the owner. From the day I started housekeeping as a young bride, I have always loved the old stuff, the classics and items with a bit of whimsy.

I started selling in 1999 at on-line auctions, have been part of a brick and mortar store, and have my own website. I think I will never tire of the thrill of the hunt.

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Belle Inspiration: The Vintage Nest has a wonderfully varied collection of brocante, antiques and handmade creations. Has the boutique’s style changed since you first opened, and how do envision it in the future?

Yes, I have been in the selling aspect of vintage since 1999, and back then shabby chic was really hitting its prime. I would shabby and chic a lot of vintage items that didn’t have quite the right “look”.

Now, I only look for vintage with the original finish on it and rarely paint anything unless I want a specific color. And I am happy to see people mixing old and new, more so than they used to. The world of blogging opened up a whole new world and is quite often the inspiration for the latest in home fashion.

Belle Inspiration: Do you sell at markets as well as via your online boutique?

Yes, I have a booth in an antique market in a small village outside the big city and I have recently been asked to sell at a new venture in the city.

For a weekend in October, selected antique vendors from all around our area and surrounding states will set up in a beautiful park like setting as well as in the barn.

Antique, vintage and specialty items will be featured. I am honored to be included in this new venture for our area.

Belle Inspiration: The style of The Vintage Nest could be described as eclectic, practical and simply beautiful, what is the style in your own home?

LOL… I have to say, The Vintage Nest reflects my own home also. It’s eclectic with prized vintage flea market finds, fine South Eastern generational antique furniture , a little shabby, a little farmhouse, a little traditional, with some quirky uncommon elements thrown in the mix.

I have often been told there is something interesting and fun to see in every corner of my home without being cluttered. I love that!

Belle Inspiration: You have been online for quite a while, any secrets to being a business owner?

Be yourself. Don’t try to copy another’s style. It won’t ring true. And only sell what you love and have the support of your partner. Everything else will fall into place.

Belle Inspiration: Describe a favorite day – would it include antiquing and flea markets?

Absolutely! For example, yesterday I went treasure hunting with an old friend. We started out very early in the morning to hit some yard sales and church sales as well as a bake sale. We then traveled a bit to aFall Open House at a friend’s shop.

From there we hit a farmer’s market where we bought fresh veggies, white pumpkins, and our lunch, which we enjoyed at a side of the road picnic table, topped off with the cookies from the early morning bake sale.

Afterward we hit several antique shops and a flea market before heading home. The weather was perfect and so was the camaraderie. And I found some very sweet treasures soon to hit my website. Now that’s a perfect day!

Belle Inspiration: What do you look for when choosing pieces for your boutique?

They must be different, not something you see on everyone else’s site or shop. Right now, vintage kitchen scales are very popular.

And I run across them quite often. But they must have that certain “look” for me to purchase it. The right chippiness, the perfect color, the right graphics, etc.

When I was antiquing yesterday, I found some vintage Christmas angels.

But these were different. They were in the softest glorious worn colors… soft pinks and greens and ivories and that lovely worn gold only time can achieve. Yep, I bought them.

Belle Inspiration: One word that sums up The Vintage Nest?

Unique and warm (okay…that’s two).

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A portion of my family room above that shows my use of black in a room. What you can't see is the sofas and rugs are a creamy white which is a nice contrast for the black.

It shows the use of a vintage lady's hat (with big black rose) used as a lampshade on a very old French onyx lamp and the 1940's black typewriter on a vintage farmhouse table.

A shabby, chippy, white cottage plant stand that showcases an old lamp statue, and hanging in the window are stain glasses pieces that were originally cabinet doors. Under the table and great for extra storage are vintage suitcases, one in old black metal.

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Top Left, clockwise: A vintage baroque framed cherub print. Love the colors! This piece is on the website.

Right: The most fabulous doll baby totally clad in worn and faded muted pink satin and tulle with sequins. How precious is she? (Another example of the unique items I seek out in my hunts and will be going on my website).

An antique wooden rocking horse is standing guard perched on top of a painted armoire.

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My workhorse industrial work table my husband built for my studio. It is 8 feet long and indispensable to me.

Where I create....

An old candelabra French wall sconce lamp I recently found, with original candle sleeves and that fabulous blue paint.

Favorite room decorating tip: Always add a touch of black, a true staple in the decorating world. It's grounding and adds decorative weight to a room.

Favorite party tip: Always have your party in the evening. Candle light and soft low lighting are so flattering and unlike in the daytime, the dust doesn't show :) Favorite treasure hunting tip: Think of ways to use vintage pieces in new ways: an old tin chicken feeder becomes a charming planter; an old hat becomes a whimsical lampshade, a vintage galvanized metal produce market container becomes a fabulous beverage holder for a party. These are all things I have done in my own home. And don't be afraid to stop at the most forlorn looking places. Quite often this is where I have found some my favorite vintage treasures.

Visit Lynn at The Vintage Nest (www.thevintagenest.com). You can also read more about her vintage adventures on her blog; http://thevintagenestblog.com.

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Rustic Wild Maine

Blueberry

e

Galette

Recipe & Photos: ELissa Villines Shaw

fter a day of hiking through one of Maine’s wild blueberry preserves, it was only fitting to have the desire to bake something sweet with the day’s gathered berries.

In keeping with the rugged, natural setting, in which blueberries are found, a rustic, no-fuss French galette was an easy choice.

The dough can look as whimsical or controlled as you like—mine are very whimsical. A galette can be savory or sweet, and must always be eaten right from the oven to experience the buttery, flakey crust at its best.

Paired with a cup of aromatic vanilla tea and a crumble of creamy blueberry goat cheese, this galette became the topic of conversation when shared with a friend one lazy Sunday afternoon. While you may not be able to find wild Maine blueberries in your neck of the woods, any berry or fruit will do.

Galette Dough Ingredients: 3 tablespoon of sour cream 1/3 cup cold water (add 1 ice cube) 1 cup all-purpose flour ¼ cup yellow cornmeal 1 teaspoon sugar ½ teaspoon salt 7 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cut into 6-8 pieces Stir together sour cream and ice water in a small bowl and set aside. Put the flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt in a large bowl and stir with a fork to mix. Drop the cut butter pieces into the bowl, tossing them once or twice to coat them with flour.

With your hands or pastry cutter work the butter into the flour, until the butter pieces are no larger than small stones. Smaller pieces will make the dough tender, larger ones will make it flaky.

Sprinkle the sour cream mixture over the dough, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork to evenly distribute it. After you have added all of the sour cream, the dough should be moist enough to stick together when pressed (if not, add cold water 1teaspoon at a time until you have a soft flexible dough).

Turn the dough out of the bowl. Divide it in half. Press each half into a disk.

Wrap each disk in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

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Berry Filling Ingredients 2 cups fresh berries or desired fruit (Do not use frozen fruit, it will be too runny) 2 teaspoons of sugar, divided 2 tablespoons of cold butter, cut into 16 pieces water Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll each dough ball on a lightly floured surface into a disk about 6-7 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch in thickness.

Place each round dough disk on the parchment (it helps to wrap it around your rolling pin and unfurl it over the parchment), and pile half the berries in the middle. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar and dot with 8 pieces of butter.

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Fold the edges of the dough up and over the edge of the berries in any fashion desired. Brush water on the edges of the dough and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Repeat steps with other galette. Bake for 20-30 minutes depending on oven settings. You know it’s done when the fruit filling bubbles and the edges turn slightly golden.

Serve warm or at room temperature. Top with crème fraîche, creamy goat cheese or vanilla ice cream for added goodness.

Elissa Villines Shaw - Educated in Fr

naturally I obliged the request. â€&#x;When life cal various other musings on history, cuisine

www.thetravelingpear.com. The Traveling Pe our passions of history, cuisine and travel.

‟There are also no special rules or equipment when it comes to forming the galette.

Random pinches and tucks show the work of the hand. ”

rench history and thus a daydreamer of all things classically French. Paris beckoned in the spring of 2011 so

lled me home in the fall I became content to share my experiences, fascinations and passions of its history and and travel through a blog I share with my culinary talented husband, called The Traveling Pear”;

ear - a globetrotting, cross-country traveling French trained Chef and 18th century loving princess, chasing

www.lulukleininteriors.com

Bella Bella Studios An Interview with Stephanie Henning

Stephanie Henning-Skaggs is the Artist and Creator of Bella Bella Studios. Bella Bella Studios offers a line of Couture European Designs of greeting cards, party supplies, and gifts for the home.

Her travels around the world have influenced and guided her inspirations onto canvas and paper. Bella Bella Studios has been in business since 1998 and Stephanie’s designs are sold throughout the United States, Australia and Europe.

Stephanie has a passion for art and loves to create luxurious designs with a personalized flair for her clients.

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Your designs have a European quality where you have traveled. What inspired your work the most on your travels?

I find much of my inspiration from my travels to Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland and England. My artwork expresses my passion for all things European. The passion for Europe stems deep down in my family heritage.

My grandparents and relatives are from Italy and the Italian culture is very much a part of our life. My Italian heritage is incorporated into my designs, and the passion for traveling helps inspire creativity into my elegantly whimsical designs. Any time I need a little inspiration I reminisces about time well spent on my travels.

Etsy gives Bella Bella Studios’ clients a chance to purchase personalized couture designs for the special events in their lives. These designs are like no other and are all original works of art designed

by Stephanie for Bella Bella Studios.

The Bella Bella Studios Etsy shop offers personalized party supplies that are emailed to clients within 24-48 hours of purchase. Designs are personalized for clients and are sent to the client via email, and are then easily downloaded to their computer and printed at a local print shop, or with the convenience of their own printer.

Launching a business is a huge step – what made you decide to take it, and are you glad you did?

Bella Bella Studios originated out of the need to create. It has grown into a very successful business that has given me the opportunity to share my designs with clients around the world.

Bella Bella Studios on Zazzle is a great way for clients to purchase printed paper luxuries such as: personalized invitations, greeting cards, holiday cards, business cards, seals, postage stamps, canvas’ and endless gifts for the home.

The Zazzle products are very well made and look exceptionally professional. Bella Bella Studios’ clients have been very pleased overall with their purchases.

The Bella Bella Studios website www.ShopBellaBella.com is a portal to the online Zazzle store. This is an easy way to browse and shop safely on the internet.

Bella Bella Studios on Etsy and Zazzle have been a wonderful way to reach clients locally and around the world. My designs are very successful in the United States, Australia and Europe.

Bella Bella Studios offers a very inexpensive, quick and affordable way for clients to have access to personalized couture designs for their special events.

Favorite part of being your own boss?

My favorite part of starting a business is that it has allowed me the freedom of being there for my family. I’ve always been driven to design and create. Bella Bella Studios has allowed me to fulfill the need to be creative and fulfill my passion.

Bella Bella Studios is now on Etsy and Zazzle? Would you recommend it?

Etsy and Zazzle have been wonderful opportunities for Bella Bella Studios.

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In the photo above Bella Bella Studios greeting cards are surrounded by handmade wire animals, themed baskets, gift boxes, a few of Stephanie’s hand painted canvas'are hanging in the back along with her hand hand painted tiles. ‟You can see the Tissue Tassel garlands behind the PARIS garland that I made for my daughter's party... they are my new way to add a splash of color... I just love them.” ~Stephanie Henning 49

Do you have any favorite items in your boutique at the moment? Tell us about your custom design services?

It is hard to pick a favorite design. I find myself loving all of the creations. I puts so much love and passion into each design, and I’m not happy until it is just right.

Bella Bella Studios offers a graphic design service for their clients, and I work very closely with clients to make sure they are getting the personalization and design they have envisioned.

To see more of Stephanie’s creations at Bella Bella Studios visit her website: www.shopbellabella.com.

Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/bellabellastudios Zazzle: www.zazzle.com/bellabellastudios

The armoire above shows my cards amongst other items I have designed and created: handmade wire and yarn, elves, santas, bunnies, kittens, dogs, and baby bears.

These start from a wire frame, add a unique chenille yarn, vintage faces, handmade felt clothing, extra little trinkets to add character, and sprinkles of glitter.

There are also clay pieces that I hand sculpted, fired, hand painted and added glitter; handmade embellished decorative boxes for every occasion. I like to surprise good friends and family with them for special celebrations in their lives.

There are also handmade baskets filled with vintage trinkets, jewels, flowers, etc. Last but not least, they are dusted with glitter.

Each little basket started from a small white soufflĂŠ cup and a whimsical theme that I came up with. These are special tokens I create for family and friends during the year.

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Stephanie usually finds herself saying, “I hope you love it as much as I do!�

That pretty much says it all.

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By: Karen Tibbett When I was sat next to a lady selling gorgeous felted items at a local craft fair just over a year ago, never in my wildest dreams did I think we would become the best of friends and find that we both have a passion for the beautiful fashion designs of days gone past.

Even more so, I would certainly never have said we would be designing our own unique label of bespoke pieces together in my Vintage Workshop!

I had only just started my venture as Tilly’s Vintage Workshop & Craft Studio at the time, so I certainly had no intention of designing a collection of gorgeous goodies in addition to my existing work… but you know how these things start… over a coffee or two.

We soon became the best of friends and several chats later we soon discovered we loved fashion, especially from days gone past.

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s experts in our own field of designing already, we thought it would be great fun i f we could combine our skills and create something unique, bringing something new to the ‘handmade designer market’.

After loads of research, mind-mapping and finally writing down all our ideas, our new collection ‘Vintage Elegance’ was born.

A year later and we are having a ball together.

What do we actually do you may be asking? Well, we combine traditional wet-felting techniques with antique lace and silks sourced from quality vintage wedding and evening gowns, to create a bespoke range of luxurious accessories such as shawls, scarves, hats, cufflets, and corsages.

Each item is unique, especially designed for individual clients and made with loads of love.

We take a lot of our inspiration from the golden eras of feminine elegance of Edwardian times and during the 1920’s- 1940’s.

We try to use authentic vintage patterns where possible and source our antique laces from Parisian flea markets, antique fairs and vintage auctions.

We only source good quality items especially the wedding gowns which we then cut up and add to our designs.

Over the time our collection has taken to evolve, it has been great that we have both learned new skills from each other and combined ideas to create new designs along the way.

Sue, who is our expert with felting, creates the base for our hats, scarves and shawls using a luxurious mix of merino, alpaca, mulberry silk, bamboo silk and cashmere.

We then decide on which Edwardian lace and silks are to be added to the mix to create an even more luxurious vintage feel to each piece.

Once the felt has dried, I then work on embellishing each one with lace, pearls, trims and glass beads taken from our vintage gowns and linens.

Some of our embellished scarves are hand dyed and finished by hand with the finer details.

The results are amazing even if I do say so myself!

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Each item is unique, especially designed for individual clients and made with loads of love.

Our latest commission is for a bride getting married in Italy in a few weeks.

We have designed a shawl to match her dress perfectly with the idea that it will be passed down to her daughters when they eventually marry and then passed on again to future generations.

We adore that idea‌.to think our work will be treasured for generations.

You couldn’t ask for anything more as a designer!

We’ve had quite a lot of ladies ask about us cutting up their dresses for them to be made into a family christening shawl which again is a lovely idea.

Antique lace and silks are sourced from high quality vintage wedding and evening gowns.

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Learn more about the story of Vintage Elegance at their blog; http:// www.tillysvintageelegance.blogspot.co.uk/. You can also follow on Facebook - https:// www.facebook.com/pages/Vintage-Elegance/335875883128747.

Karen Tibbett is the owner of Tilly’s Vintage Workshop & Craft Studio in Peterborough, United Kingdom. Her online boutique is Tilly Rose (http://www.tilly-rose.co.uk/), where you’ll find luxurious handmade creations. You can also read her blog; Tilly Rose Blog (http:// www.tillyroseblog.blogspot.fr/).

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Postcards from Paris: Café Life Temple Tsenes-Hills

“The last time I saw Paris, her heart was warm and gay, I heard the laughter of her heart in every street café…”

Oscar Hammerstein II, ‘Til the Clouds Roll By (1940)

Yes, to learn the rhythm and flow of Paris, one must flâner. But the heart and soul of Paris is found in her Café Life…

“The French don’t go to priests, doctors, or psychiatrists to talk over their problems; they sit in a café over a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and talk to each other.”

Eric Sevareid (1966) 62

Parisian cafĂŠ life is composed of elaborately interconnected parts: men and women from every walk of life and job description routinely gather to sip, nibble, gossip, debate, people watch or just read the paper.

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“Cafés offer a window on contemporary life in Paris and

allow you to perfect the Parisian art of doing nothing while watching the world pass by.”

-Sandra Gustafson, Great Eats in Paris Sincèrement votre de Paris,

Temple 64

Temple Tsenes-Hills is the writer and photographer of this series: ‘Postcards from Paris.’

When not traveling to Paris, she creates unique jewelry designs (www.sistah.etsy.com). Temple also authors the blog: Pour l’Amour de Paris - (For the Love of Paris); (http://templepourlamourdeparis.blogspot.com).

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The Paris House Designs ‘Living Beautifully’

Story: Michele Rosenthal Photography: Sam Rosenthal

The Paris House Designs is owned by Michele Rosenthal, affectionately known as,“Bunny”.

The company was established 20 years ago while Michele was the Director of Community Relations and Special Events for a division of Saint Clares Hospital in Denville, NJ. She has also studied French in Paris, France where she fell in love with antiques and all aspects of art and design.

The Paris House Designs is a design and entertaining business located in an historic farmhouse in New Jersey approximately one hour from Manhattan and historic Bucks County PA. It is in our historic stone and clapboard home that we work on our designs in our studio; the Earth Mother jewelry collection, planning our cooking and entertaining classes which are often based on recipes and designs/party ideas that we have collected on our travels around the World over the years.

The Paris House has also published 2 children’s books. Michele’s current project is “Magdalena’s Adventures”, a story of a young, gorgeous 20 something women who travels the world looking for love and adventure and gets into a bit of mischief along the way.

Each chapter includes delicious recipes and cocktails. All of our recipes and many great ideas can also be found on our blog/ website; www.theparishouse.com.

The Paris House has won several awards over the years including the historic preservation award.

Photo previous page: The last of summer’s beauty with the sparkle of a crystal chandelier.

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I am truly obsessed with the art of creating, designing and living a beautiful life! ~ Michele Rosenthal

‟I enjoy owning my own company; I have wonderful friends and a fabulous assistant who help make The Paris House successful, enjoyable and fun.

Most importantly my son Sam Rosenthal, does much of our photography. He will be attending Parson’s school of design in Manhattan this fall, and will continue to work for The Paris House sharing his gorgeous photography with the world.”

We have clients come to us for one of a kind antiques that we shop for in Paris and various locations throughout the world both near and far. Our classes are taught from our farmhouse as well as at local libraries and private bookings.

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Michele designed a gorgeous high-end ring, “The Earth Mother Ring�, where mothers can custom design their ring to coordinate with their children’s birthstones, it is a stunning piece of jewelry and there are more pieces to come.

TBunny travels the world, bringing back one of a kind pieces, and unique ideas and inspiration that are used in her interiors and special events.

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Whether The Paris House designs a room in y special event for you – they p

your home, or designs and organizes a party or pay attention to every detail.

For more info on Michele and The Paris House Designs go to her website: www.theparishouse.com.

Photography: Sam Rosenthal; http://samrphotography.blogspot.com.

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Garde

ening is an important part of The Paris House

Lobster Thermidor‌ a revolutionarty French Classic done simply

Recipes & Photos by: Elisa Villines Shaw

obster Thermidor is a quintessential extravagant French dish usually reserved for posh restaurants or for special occasions.

However, if you find yourself living in the lobster capital of the world such as I do, the Mid coast region of Maine, where lobsters are usually served with butter or on a roll with mayonnaise, adding a French twist brings life and a little of the past to the table.

A mixture of history and myth has this classical dish being invented in 1894 at the restaurant Maire on Boulevard Saint-Denis in Paris to honor the debut of the play “Thermidor” by Victorien Sardou.

Set during the French Revolution, which occurred just 100 years prior and still a very hot issue, “Thermidor” was banned after three performances when radical Republican members took offense to the criticisms of Maximilien Robespierre, the overthrown leader of the Revolution.

The name “Thermidor” was in reference to the months (July to August) in 1794 of the French Republican Calendar when the guillotine made its drop onto that of Robespierre, thus ending the Reign of Terror.

Lobster Thermidor, a regal treat for all seasons, either in the height of summer or in the colds of winter.

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Ingredients 2 live lobsters—already cooked works too, no guilt!

2 tablespoons white wine 2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped 2 teaspoons chopped tarragon 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons all purpose flour 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1 cup of milk 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese (grated) 2 tablespoons heavy cream Pinch of salt Serves 2

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Place the lobsters in the freezer for about an hour before you want to cook them. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, drop in the lobsters and cook for 10 minutes. Drain and cool before removing meat from all parts of the lobster.

Cut meat into bite sized pieces. Cut the lobster tails so as to make small boats out of them. The meat will eventually go back into the shell and be served this way.

Make a roux - Melt butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan on medium heat, whisk in the flour and dry mustard. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes over medium heat without allowing the roux to brown.

Whisk in white wine, milk and pinch of salt until a smooth consistency is achieved (essentially you are creating a BĂŠchamel sauce).

Next add the aromatics: shallots and tarragon (reserve some tarragon for garnish). Cook on medium heat for 5-10 minutes. Strain sauce to remove the onion and tarragon.

Place back on stove and add Parmesan cheese until melted (reserve extra for garnish). Stir in heavy cream for added richness.

Finally add the cooked lobster meat to the sauce and heat through.

Spoon meat sauce mixture into each shell and sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top of each. Place under broiler in oven until slightly golden and bubbling, about 3-5 minutes. Garnish with remaining tarragon and serve immediately and enjoy!

Elissa Villines Shaw - Educated in French history and thus a daydreamer of all things classically French. Paris beckoned in the spring of 2011 so naturally I obliged the request.

When life called me home in the fall I became content to share my experiences, fascinations and passions of its history and various other musings on history, cuisine and travel through a blog I share with my culinary talented husband, called The Traveling Pear; www.thetravelingpear.com The Traveling Pear - a globetrotting, cross-country traveling French trained Chef and 18th century loving princess, chasing our passions of history, cuisine and travel.

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Flowers Southern High Style

Story: Rhonda Spiers Photos: Catherine Cousins Holly Redmond

“Flowers are love's truest language� ~Park Benjamin (1809-1864)

f flowers were really a language, childhood friend and florist extraordinaire, Benny Campbell, speaks love's truest language fluently.

Even though I had not seen Benny in thirty years, I knew of his success through family and friends and through articles in some of the best wedding and shelter magazines that featured Benny and his exquisite floral designs.

While visiting family in Attalla, Alabama this spring, I stopped in Attalla Florist, hoping to see him. I wasn’t really expecting him to be there as I knew he was one very busy designer.

Much to my surprise and delight, Benny was at the shop and I had the opportunity to talk with him. I was most impressed to hear about his amazing 37 year career in the floral design industry.

Attalla Florist, Benny Campbell

Bride Claire Condra-Hedgepeth makes a striking picture against the breathtaking swags of blue and wh

enny Campbell graduated from Auburn University where he earned a degree in Landscape Design and Ornamental Horticulture with a concentration in Floral culture.

Eventually, he opened his own shop, Attalla Florist and Design, in Attalla, Alabama – the town where we both attended high school.

His work has been featured at the Birmingham Museum of Art and in numerous shelter magazines including Southern Accents, Southern Bride, People and I Do for Brides.

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hite hydrangea

Pomanders of hydrangeas look elegant suspended from a chandelier

While London and New York are just two of the destinations for flower market tours led by the talented florist, Benny is also happy to speak to local organizations.

When it comes to his unique arrangements, Benny definitely thinks "outside the vase". He describes his floral design aesthetic as "Southern high style, a free-flowing style with a Southern influence.�

Using natural elements such as twigs, pods and berries mixed with plants and cut flowers. Benny creates stunning arrangements for many special events, across the country.

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White hydrangeas surround the beauty of a single white rose

A vintage brooch is the perfect compliment to a gorgeous white bridal bouquet

Table bouquets hold mango and white mini Calla Lilies

Attalla Florist is located in Attalla Alabama. You can contact Benny Campbell at (001) 256-538-7333. www.atttallafloristllc.com.

Photographer at Cordia-Hedgepath weddi ng; Catheri ne Cousi ns, www.catherinecousins.com Photographer at Ingemie-Richey wedding; Holly Redmond, www.hollyredmondphoto.com.

Reception table were decorated with vintage mason jars

I wish we could have spent more time together, but it was the Tuesday before Easter Sunday and a truck full of beautiful Calla Lilies had arrived. Benny excused himself, but I lingered for a while discovering something delicious in every nook of his beautiful showroom, and breathing in the sweet scent of his "Southern high style" flowers.

Writer Rhonda Spiers is a regular contributor to Belle Inspiration. Read her lifestyle blog, My Blue Creek Home, (http://mybluecreekhome.com). Her online boutique is filled brocante and many of her own handcrafted pieces; The Shop at Blue Creek Home (www.etsy.com/shop/bluecreekhome.com).

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Elizabeth Ingemie-Richey looks radiant clutching her elegant bouquet bound in sheer ivory ribbon

The Library

The Antiques Diva® Goes To Bath….

(And Barely Leaves Her Hotel)

By Toma Clark Haines

While the English city Bath might have thousands of hotels, for the discerning traveler with a penchant for the past there is really only one hotel option to consider – The Royal Crescent.

Toma Clark Haines, otherwise known as the Antiques Diva ®, dishes as she shares how she spent her weekend in this world-heritage city … and confesses that she barely left her hotel.

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he honey-colored city of Bath, with its plethora of perfectly proportioned Georgian buildings, gorgeous Roman baths, many museums and art galleries has been on my travel-radar since I first visited during my university days.

In the years since college – more years than I care to count - I’ve been to Bath oodles of times on Girls Getaways and Antique Buying Tours though somehow I had managed to never visit one of my favorite cities on earth on the arm of my one true love.

This past March I decided to remedy this situation and gave my husband a formal invitation to join me on a Mr. & Mrs. Smith Weekend in one of Britain’s most famous hotels.

We arrived our hotel, pulling up in front of the most famous crescent in the world, wondering if we’d arrived at the wrong address. Searching for the name of the hotel on the edifice, we found a tiny gold sign announcing the hotel was tucked under a light post on one of the grandest examples of European architecture.

A valet stood discretely guard by the front door of the five-star Relais & Chateaux hotel, wearing a top hat that looked so perfectly fitting that it didn’t occur to us that in the 21st century his attire was a tad out of the norm.

Before I could say bippity boppety boo, the top-hatted valet magically appeared, opening my door and extending a hand to help me from my carriage, I mean, car.

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The story might be perfect for a fairy tale if I told that as I stepped down onto the curb my leopard print ballet flat dropped from my toes. The valet stopped to pick it up, but I quickly grabbed the shoe and put it back firmly on my foot.

There is only room in this story for one prince. I clutched my husband’s hands and together, fingers entwined, we left our luggage and car behind for the valet to deal with and clicked our heels, finding ourselves standing in the midst of a Jane Austen novel, surely the center of the civilized world.

Stepping inside we were greeted by a grand entrance hall that would have left Scarlett O’Hare swooning with its checkered black and white floor and ceremonial halberds and grand staircase.

Antique furniture and paintings faded softly in the background as overstuffed chairs beckoned, having cuddled everyone from Kylie Minogue’s to Judy Dench’s bottom in their comfortable surroundings.

Decisively undertone and discrete, the overall ambiance of the hotel felt more like a posh private residence than a populated hotel.

The Dower House at Night

The rooms artthe Royal Crescent Hotel are elegant and stocked with every amenity a quest could need.

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Out the back door of the hotel an acre of private gardens were tucked and hidden behind the Royal Crescent, either space ideal for pitching up a game of croquet or taking afternoon tea.

Opting for the latter we swished and swirled our tea as if sommeliers from the Far East while discussing in earnest the 10 page treatment menu at The Bath House Spa located behind the main building in the former coach house and stables.

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ne couldn’t visit Bath without experiencing the Roman Baths.

Taking a hands on approach to experiencing history first hand, we booked ourselves a place on the massage table before taking to the waters, soaking in the 12 meter long heated relaxation pool and alternating between the cool and tepid plunge pools.

By the time we emerged hours later, the lanterns in the garden had been lit leading the way to the award-winning Dower House restaurant and bar.

When in Rome, do as the Romans… If the Royal Crescent is known for its gourmet cuisine far be it for me to buck tradition. So dinner in true diva fashion was done in the award-winning restaurant.

While there was still a little too much ‘brrr’ in the air to enjoy al fresco dining, the leafy secluded gardens had me hankering for returning in the height of summer.

While this might have only been my first trip to Bath with my one true love, it certainly won’t be my last.

Toma Clark Haines is The Antiques Diva® - Chief Executiv land, France, Belgium, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Holland and G 105

The Bath House Interior

ve Diva of The Antiques Diva速 & Co European Tours offering customized antique shopping excursions in EngGermany. Find out more information about her tours www.antiquesdiva.com.

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An impeccable room at the Royal Crescent Hotel

Should you find the discipline to leave the luxury confines of the Royal Crescent Hotel on your next blissful trip to Bath then here are a few must stop and shop antique shops & fairs from locally-based English Diva Guide Gail McLeod with The Antiques Diva速 & Co. For more information email info@antiquesdiva.com for details.

Old Bank Antiques 17 Walcot Buildings Bath www.oldbankantiquescentre.com Antique Textiles and Lighting 34 Belvedere Bath www.antiquesofbath.com Piccadilly Antiques 280 High Street, Batheaston, Bath www.johndaviesantiques.co.uk/ Bath Decorative Antiques Fair 7-10 March, 2013 The Pavilion, Bath www.bathdecorativeantiquesfair.co.uk

Belle

Inspiration

Next Issue Nov/December 2012

Celebrating a Parisian Christmas & the Holidays In the Most Delightful Ways!

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‘The Finest in Romantic Living’

www.LaVieCharmante.com