C'est La Vie Events

2012

2012-01-09T17:42:00.000-05:00

New Year: New Expectations. New Discoveries. New Projects. New Challenges. New Delights...

And plenty of new art prints soon available at C'est La Vie Art Shop...

Stay Tuned. I promise to share every single detail with you:)

Mega End of Year Sale!!!!

2011-12-01T00:27:00.002-05:00

I have marked down every single print in my Fine Art Photography ETSY Shop - C'est La Vie Art - by 25%!!!!!!

Take advantage now!

Click here to find the perfect, unique, custom gift now!!!

Happy Shopping!!!

C'est La Vie Art Photo Series: Autumn

2011-11-14T21:49:00.000-05:00

Fall is one of my favorite seasons. These captures convey the romance, quiet sophistication and breath-taking color palette found only in Autumn...

These Fine art prints are now available for purchase in my ETSY shop to decorate your home, office or as the perfect personalized gift.

To browse our full collection of prints at C'est La Vie Art - Please click here.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/cestlavieart

A Fall Season Family Shoot

2011-11-07T14:40:00.004-05:00

I recently had the pleasure to shoot a lovely trio: Mother, Father and Daughter on a gorgeous Fall Day. Here are some of my favorites from that day...

Hope you enjoyed!

If interested in setting up your own photo session, please email me to cestlavie.events@gmaill.com or click here for information on my services and pricing.

Stay tuned for a one-day apartment transformation and many more projects coming soon...

Rocking Rococo

2011-11-06T16:01:00.000-05:00

Rococo Design - also commonly known as Late Baroque or Louis XV's - is overly ornate, uber luxurious and iconic for it's elaborate curves and elegant excess. Rococo decor style and furniture pieces were inspired from an era of great luxury and indulgence. It's hard not to appreciate the intricate details, rich fabrics and artistic curves. Glamour at it's finest.

Here are some fine examples:

[Via Here]

[via Le Garde-Mueble]

[Via Here]

A current design trend, and one of my personal favorites, is to pair one or two Rococo inspired furniture pieces with cleaner, more modern components in a contemporary setting. This brings instant visual interest and depth, and these intricate furniture pieces become beautiful focal points...

Stunning is an understatment, don't you agree?

Please stay tuned for upcoming posts on many new decor, event planning and photography projects coming soon!

A 1940's Inspired Engagement Shoot

2011-10-19T14:30:00.007-04:00

Love is in the air....As discussed in this post, I recently had the opportunity to work on a unique but lovely Engagement Shoot for a very special couple. I wanted to provide them with engagement pictures they would fall in-love with. A session that would capture their personalities, style and especially their relationship.

I decided a 1940's inspired engagement shoot would be the ideal concept for this unique couple. They loved the idea and after planning the logistics, styling details and praying for good weather, went to work on capturing the love story of J and M. An elegant, romantic and timeless session....

A few captures for your viewing enjoyment:

This bride and groom also hired me as their wedding planner for their 2012 nuptials. Stay tuned for updates on their special day...

If interested in setting up your own photo session, please email me to cestlavie.events@gmaill.com or click here for information on my services and pricing.

Stay tuned for more upcoming photoshoots, design projects, DIY ideas and much, much more...

Vintage PostCard Voyage

2011-10-05T16:48:00.001-04:00

Let's travel back in time for a bit...

Sometimes we must look to the past to inspire our future...

Parsons, the perfect chair.

2011-09-21T21:26:00.001-04:00

In my opinion, the Parsons Chair might be one of the most versatile pieces of furniture out there. It's classic, simple, clean-lined design can work flawlessly with almost any decor aethetic and transitions easily from contemporary to traditional with the quick addition of a pattern or skirted slip-cover.

Here are a few examples of the Parson's chair in an array of materials, colors and fabrics:

In leather...

A bold patterned fabric...

In bright poppy colors...

With wooden legs....

Or skirted for a more traditional look. I own four of these glorious chairs, the IKEA HENRIKSDAL

They look so incredibly fresh and crisp in white when paired with a darker wood table, the contrast is lovely...

But can also look absolutely fabulous when painted or patterned. The white slip-covers provide the creative and artistic types with a blank canvas in which to create some incredible masterpieces. Check out the fabulous DIY paint-job that was done on these Parson Chairs by It's Great to be Home. Amazing.

And this lovely French Country inspired paint treatment done by a Pop of Pretty on her chairs. Genius.

Inspired by these crafty ladies and with thoughts of what I can DIY to my own Parson chairs in the near future, I found this picture via Carrington Court Direct a skirted Parsons with a fabulous nail-head trim on the back.

This gorgeous skirted Parsons is retailing at approx $200 (including S&H.)

Hmmm. For about $20 in supplies, I am thinking I can DIY a very similar look. Please stay tuned for updates...

What about you? What type of furniture piece is your favorite and why? Leave a comment, I'd love to hear about it.

Merci Mon Amis.

A Bachelor Pad Re-Design.

2011-09-15T20:29:00.005-04:00

Design Plan for: Studio Space
Client: Matt

(click to enlarge)

My most recent design project happened to be for an old-friend and one of the coolest bachelors' I know, Mr. Matt:) He recently moved into a new studio space apartment and due to time constraints and lack of inspiration was experiencing the bachelor pad blues. Singing them loudly. In true stereotypical bachelor behvaior, this room was seriously lacking style and function, (e.g. his window treatments: towels and t-shirts. yes, you read right) and not reflecting his fun personality or life-style. No bueno.

He was in dire need of a cool, sophisticated, modern space that was simultaneously functional & comfortable. A place that he could kick back in after a long day of work, but still sleek enough to host a singles' soiree or two. He asked for my help and I gladly went to work!

Using furniture pieces he already owned plus a few new added accessories and art-work, I came up with a space that mixes both urban chic with touches of retro-cool. I also made sure to keep the color scheme masculine and nuetral with a pale grey, navy, charcoal grey and hints of cocoa and natural wood. The Art Work is from my Urban Fine Art Gallery and can be purchased here. The previous owners had selected a vibrant red accent wall that was a bit overwhelming for Matt, so I selected a very moody and sophisticated Charcoal Grey as the new accent wall in Benjamin Moore's Kendall Grey, it will work flawlessly with the pale-blue with greyish undertones found on the other walls in his space, and one of my favorite go-to cool nuetrals, Benjamin Moore's Spring Mint.

Here is the Testimonial in Matt's own words,
In true bachelor style, he kept it succint and sweet:
"Thank you so much sis, your the BEST!!!"

Matt can't wait to get started with his place and I can't wait to see the after pictures!

Here is a look at the Before Pictures of his space, (he's such a great sport for "keeping it real" and letting me share:)

In need of transforming your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Design and Style Evaluation here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Making Memories.

2011-09-13T17:45:00.006-04:00

Wanted to share a few pictures of some recent smaller-scale shoots I did over the summer. Now that Fall season is here, we have a few other exciting shoots planned so please make sure to stay tuned. If you are interested in learning more about my on-location photography services and booking an appointment, please click here.

J's Surprise Engagement

He finally popped the question. I was so honored to be able to capture this special moment for a very special bride who is close to my heart in so many ways...

Official E- Shoot to come soon.... :)

Little V's Ballet Recital

Love this little human and her incredible precocious personality. Her first-ever Ballet recital made us all so proud...

Nani Maria

Last but certainly not least, an impromptu shoot with my gorgeous grandmother Maria after a little mini make-over I gave her. I think she radiates beauty, inside and out. Love this amazing woman more than mere words can describe... A matriarch to admire and adore.

She's such a ham. :)

Plenty more updates coming soon...:)

Merci Mon Amis.

My Design Picks - Restoration Hardware.

2011-08-31T17:24:00.003-04:00

I recently had the opportunity to visit one of Restoration Hardware's Outlet stores. I was quite literally a kid in a candy store. As soon as I walked in salivating, drooling and coveting - oh so much coveting - ensued.

I absolutely adore their artisan quality craftmanship, global influence and sophisticated yet simple approach to their furniture and textiles. They sell authentic statement-making pieces that complete a room. Furniture that is made to last and is both functional and super stylish.

Here are a few of the items I wanted to take home with me:
(excuse the poor quality of the pictures, all were taken with my Blackberry.)

These 19th-century inspired wing chairs have been updated with textural, cleaner fabrics, a nail head trim and an elongated shape. A modern approach to a classic design. I can see two of these used as accent chairs in a living room or dining room accessorized with a soft and supple throw or some modern and punchy throw pillows. Divine Seating.

This stunning oil-rub bronzed antique-inspired chandelier. The picture may not reveal the true size, but this baby is grandiose. Perfect as the centerpiece to a grand foyer or dining room. Its rustic appeal would look beautiful juxtaposed in a more contemporary setting or as the perfect complimentary lighting piece for a rustic, cottage-esque decor aesthetic. The price tag was also none to shabby.

Speaking of "Shabby." This farmhouse dining table had me at hello. Beautiful craftsmanship, solid and simple. Would look stunning paired with uber modern acrylic ghost chairs for a gorgeous contrast, or with a more traditional styled bench and two larger scaled head chairs. Also priced quite fairly.

My personal favorite however, was this one. The white wash on the wood, those pedestal legs, comfortable seating for eight. Ugh! What's not to love? If and when we move to a space where I can have a formal dining room, this is the dining room table I want to marry. So beautiful!

Do any of you own pieces from Restoration Hardware? If so, how have you styled them, I'd love to see? They are truly statement-making on their own...

Speaking of statement-making pieces, I'll be back soon to share insight on why I think the "Parson's Chair" is one of the most versatile dining or accent chairs and why.

Also, please don't forget, only a few day's left for my End of Summer sale in my Fine Art Photography Shop on ETSY. 25% off entire order! All the details in this post, don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity!

Merci Mon Amis...

End of Summer Sale 2011

2011-08-22T16:52:00.001-04:00

As a farewell to summer ::tears::, I am hosting a fabulous End of Summer Sale on all of the fine art photography prints available for purchase in my ETSY shop - CestLaVieArt. Please take advantage of this amazing sale valid from today, 8/22 through Labor day, 9/5.

Sale includes 20% off the entire order using coupon code: EOS2011CESTLAVIE, upon check out! Gorgeous, unique and versatile fine art prints like these:

For Direct Link for purchase click here.

For Direct Link to purchase click here.

For Direct Link to Purchase click here.

For Direct Link to purchase click here.

Please make sure to take advantage now!

Many new project updates coming soon!

Merci Mon Amis<3

August Updates.

2011-08-02T00:19:00.002-04:00

Can you beleive it's August 1st and that this summer is almost over!?! I can't! In disbelief with how time truly flies....

I don't know about you, but I plan to take full advantage of the remaining long, hot summer days to work on as many projects as possible, both client- related and my own always-present-and-growing list of DIY upgrades/changes to our humble Chateau. As always, I will be sharing those here, with you, my lovely readers.

Be on the lookout for the following posts coming soon:

A 12-hour apartment re-design. Took a blank slate of an apt. and converted it into a "masterpiece" using what the client already owned and a $100 budget.
Will be sharing recent photoshoots I've had the pleasure to work on.
A super creative, inexpensive, yet chic "chandelier" I DIYed with the most unexpected materials. Will be sharing a how-to for anyone else who digs functional craft projects.
Why the Parson's Chair is the perfect dining chair in my opinion, and much, much more...

Stay tuned and make sure to check back often for updates....

Please be sure to check out my new ETSY shop and peruse more than 30 beautiful and unique fine art photography prints taken by me all over the Globe.

Meci Mon amis...

C'est La Vie Art is finally on Etsy!

2011-07-07T20:00:00.002-04:00

Happy Day! This is one project that I can finally mark off my "to-do" list.
Ces't La Vie Art Shop is finally open on ETSY !!! The official shop link is cestlavieart.etsy.com, please bookmark!

There are currently 10 listings for sale which means I still have plenty of images to add from my more than seven Fine Art Photography Galleries that will still be available for sale in my original shop HERE, but it's a good start!:)

Please stop by and browse either shop, you might find the perfect print to decorate that spot on your wall that has remained bare far too long:)

Also, be on the lookout for the release of the newest fine art photography gallery - Far East -.

Merci Mon Amis...

**UPDATE on 8/22: There are now currently almost 30 prints listed for purchase, click on the picture button on the top of the right-hand column for a direct link to my ETSY shop. Happy Shopping!!!**

A Simple Summer Soiree

2011-06-28T23:18:00.004-04:00

A few weeks ago I planned and hosted a fun summer soiree. Two factors were determined to be mandatory: it was to be outdoors and on a strict budget.

Here are the details of the event with their descriptions below:

The Invites

The invites were completely DIY and turned out to be a grand total of only 15 cents each when I calculated the costs. I had to really think out of the box for these (due to budget), and after wandering around a local craft-store for a bit I managed to find a back corner of the store that sold scrap pieces of cardstock for only $3 a bag. Score! Next I found some colorful spools of ribbon that were on a 3 for $1 sale, double score! I had the colors and theme I wanted to go with, but I initially had no specific idea of what I would do with my "supplies". After a bit of brainstorming however, I decided I would start out by taking my scissors and (free hand) cutting out a few iconic shapes that reflected summer-time outdoors: sunhats, kites and sailboats. These I cut out of scraps of cardstock and then glued to another piece of larger cardstock in contrasting but coordinating patterns so that nothing was too matchy matchy. I then added a little bit of colorful ribbon to deliniate the sunhats, kites and sailboats while adding a bit of texture.

The information was hand-written on the back. I liked how they're not "perfect" and boast that "handmade" look. The whole project was so much fun and very reminiscent of 5th grade art-class. Ha! I think they turned out ideal for the casual, fun and summery theme I was aiming for, and fortunately were a hit with the guests!

Centerpieces and Tablescape

For the outdoor table-scape, I kept it simple, colorful and very budget friendly. For centerpieces I found these super cute white and yellow striped "planting pots" on another great 2 for 1 super sale ( in the same craft store above) and loved how these coordinated with the invites. To add a pretty, fresh and organic pop of color, I added bright orange gerbera daisies that I bought at my local grocery store (also on sale.) In case you didn't know this orange/turquoise combo is one of my favorites because of it's seasonal versatility! I also had a seperate larger-scale centerpiece using a summery pale yellow watering can boasting a gorgeous, tropical bird of paradise arrangement. All these were set a top the table covers that were actually flat " bed sheets" that I found on super sale at a discount home store. The turquoise color provided a great contrast to the yellow and white pots and the bright flowers, it also coordinated quite lovely with the green outdoors. The "dinnerware" was re-usable outdoor plates in a similar bright blue, and these were also purchased on the cheapo:) The "napkins" were actually dish-rags I picked out from the dollar store from a 99 cent bin, I made sure to choose the yellow and white ones to coordinate with my summery "theme." I then tied them with a bit of rustic string and added a pretty pop of orange daisy and voila!

The event was a great success, albeit I unfortunately forgot to capture shots of the food and desserts that were served (yummy red-velvet cupcakes), but I did manage to take this picture...

The grilled steak and cheese sandwhiches that were being gobbled up by those of the male gender...go figure;)

Looking to throw a summer soiree on a strict budget of your own? Look no further than C'est La Vie, I can make the simplest of concepts become spectacular events. Please email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com with any and all questions or fill out my C'est La Vie Application Form and Style Questionnaire to begin!:)

Stay tuned for many more projects, updates, and galleries to come!

A Sophisticated and Spicy Dining Space

2011-06-20T17:33:00.002-04:00

Design Plan for: Dining Room
Client: Elizabeth (Beth)

(click to enlarge)

Beth and her fiance Mark, have recently purchased a Condo and will be moving in right after their August nuptials. Both are extremely busy with their careers and finishing the last minute details of their wedding and felt overwhelmed with the prospect of having to figure out what to do with their new home. They hired me to help them take off some of the load by designing one of the rooms they consider most important - since they are self-professed foodies and love to entertain - their dining room. As with most new homes, the rooms are currently boasting a boring "builder's beige" and they plan to transform each space, room by room. After taking my Design and Style Evaluation, I determined their style was a mix of bohemian chic, and modern glamour with a touch of funk. They are also not afraid of bold statement pieces and colors. I eagerly went to work on a design plan that would embrace their fabulous personalities and provide them with the ideal dining space that would spice up their newlywed lives.

After showing Beth and Mark my inspiration source and starting off point as indicated here, I drew up the proposed color palette and materials guide:

Beth and Mark fell in love with the concept gave me the go-ahead. Working with their budget allowed me to mix high and lower end pieces into a fabulous, cohesive space full of sculptural furniture pieces, bold statment making art pieces, (like the two prints from my Far East Art Gallery that were captured by me in Thailand, more on how to purchase prints from this gallery in a future post), as well as a touch of Glam factor with materials such as the glass table and chandelier as well as the laquered panton chairs. The gorgeous settee was actually a fortunate find from craig's list that will be re-upholstered in a beatiful bold red fabric that is also functional enough to work in a dining area. The wall color will be a subtle, barely-there silver satin from Benjamin Moore that in most light actually looks white. I chose these gorgeous espresso wood as the ideal flooring choice to ground this stunning space.

Here is the Testimonial in Beth's own words:

"What an INCREDIBLE design! We are completely blown away!!! This is divine, simply divine!!!! It is amazing how you took our personalities and incorporated them into this gorgeous dining room!!!!! Mark and I cannot thank you enough, your work is spectacular! Our Master Bedroom is next!!!"

In need of transforming your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Design and Style Evaluation here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Are you feeling spicy?

2011-06-11T17:13:00.000-04:00

While on Holiday in Thailand, I ran across these vibrant beauties sold all over open markets...

They are Thailandese Red Chilis and beleive me when I tell you the intensity of their red color matches the intensity of the heat that is produced in your mouth when biting into these babies!

One of my recent clients asked me to transform her boring and beige dining room into something that will make her salivate. These chilis are my inspiration. Stay tuned for a spicy dining room design coming soon.

Also, be on the lookout for a new Fine Art Gallery entitled "Far East", that will be brimming with beautiful Eastern inspired art prints captured by me in the beautiful land that is Thailand...

Because as a decorator I can never leave well enough alone....:)

2011-06-02T20:48:00.003-04:00

Bonjour Mon Amis! This particular post is a long time coming.... I apologize for the delay, I have been away on Holiday to Thailand (more on that incredible trip to come in the near future) and busy with many other projects. Prior to leaving however, I had been quite busy working on updating many of the spaces in our humble abode as I mentioned in this post and provided teasers to in this post.

But enough talk. Let's get to the pictures.The Visuals. The Goods. The Changes...

Master Bedroom

Befores:

Changes:

1. New (cleaner lined) bedding and style. The quilt was on mega sale from the Big O and I love it, I also removed the "throne like scarf from over the bed and transferred it to the windows for a beautiful and etheral drapey effect.)
2. New Ruffle Throw Pillows in Apple Green (on sale at Marshalls) Perfect fresh and feminie contrast color to the merlot walls.
3. Updated look above the bed. DIY art work. White Frames (on sale) with decorative patterned paper as the "art".Fresh, Elegant and practically free.
4. New Vanity Corner.
5. New Shoe Corner (haven;)
6. Painted the rims of the mini chandelier from black to a platinum gold.
7. Moved a few pieces of furniture,i.e.my end tables to create the right symmetry and balance.

(one of my favorite pieces, my Chinese carved cherry wood trunk that doubles as a foot bench at the end our bed. The aubergine bedsirt is only there until I find an appropriate replacement.)

(Fresh flowers from our backyard and more importantly,free:)

(This little corner is noteworthy. It was previously used as a placeholder for my hubby's unsightly TV, after much coaxing however, he agreed to get rid of it. In its place I converted it into a little vanity area for moi because of the great natural light. That large painting of my hubby and I was an amazing anniversary present from dear friends of ours and a total surprise. We finally got it professionally framed (had a great coupon from Michaels) and now I'm just looking for the perfect piece of wall to hang it, until then it stays there. If anyone is interested on my talented artist friend rendering a customized painting like this for you, please comment on this post or email me and I will send you his contact info.)

And this corner is appropriately called "The Shoe Haven." The shoes in clear boxes are there only temporarily until I can get another similar shelf to display them on. I don't know about you but I consider my pretties,"art" in their own right. Why hide them in boxes when they can beautify a corner of your room.(That's my story and I'm sticking to it;)

Living Room

Befores:

Changes:

1. Changed the accent wall from chocolate brown to the perfect "true" gray. It ended up being a bit of a process as I had to buy two seperate paint colors and put them on the wall before deciding one one with more beige undertones instead of baby blue. I also ended up painting over one of the architectual slants in our walls the same intense mandarin orange of the other walls so that the room appear larger, more cohesive.
2. Switched out the artwork on the wall behind the sofa and replaced it with this gorgeous vintage mirror that was given to me by a dear friend. It was originally a wood tone that had seen better days so I gave it new life with a bold and beautiful violet tone. I adore the contrast of colors of the mandarin and violet. They are almost lyrical together. Poetic even.
3. Added plenty of new artwork in the form of animal print (you'll see nods of subtle animal print thoughout this room) by displaying some art prints from my Wild Gallery as well as framed textured paper.
4. Painted my mirrored lamp shade the same luxurious violet of the mirror for an interesting pop.
5. Finally, introduced this accent color via small canvases of art that I DIYed with a little modge pode to create visually interesting and customized art as well as painted up quite a few frames with white paint for a new, fresh look. Introducing lots of white into this room gave it a crisper, more modern vibe.
6. Also hard to miss the introduction of Lucy, my beautiful chandelier that looks sooo much better than the dated ceiling fan, as well as her cohort, our beautiful new mirrored side table.

(loving the gray, but this was the in between shade, a little too much baby blue undertones for my taste.)

(all the artwork on this wall was DIYed, including this white frame that was previously black and the cherry blossoms, a print from my Fresh Fine Art Gallery)

(unfortunately the lighting is quite poor in this picture which makes it difficult to appreciate the true soft gray of the accent walls. I will post a better picture soon.)

(forgot to mention that this fun little table also got a make over with a little silver paint as did the mirror below and my large sofa table. Gave new life to old items. One of my favorite pastimes. I also adore combinging different colors and textures in the furniture while keeping them in neutral palette as the walls and other accent colors provide more than enough colorful contrast.)

(my beloved art gallery wall that is a work in progress that I plan to fill with interesting and meaningful items that I consider "art", from my own travel prints, to paintings, to poems and even empty frames with beautiful shapes)

UPDATE - December 2011. This Room has changed once again. I have purged, edited and beautified:) Will share pictures soon.

The Dining Space/Kitchen

Not any huge changes here except the new curtains I added. I made these black and white beauties from a queen sized set of bedsheets that were on a super sale at Marshalls. I actually never lifted a hand to a sewing machine with these. I cheated. I used a new-sew method I will explain in more detail in a future post:) Also wanted to show a few pictures of the table set for a nice dinner. I love mixing and matching my china and supplies to create an elegant but layered look.

I'm all about the flowers.

Switch them out whenever possible as in the case of these gorgeous hot pink blooms that my beloved surprised me with "just because."

Speaking of "sultry pink" our Berry Bathroom Budoir that I shared my design plan for here, is finally partially finished (the decoration portion at least) A future post to that transformation coming very soon. For now, a teaser...

I sincerely hope you have enjoyed this little house tour of the changes I have made to our chateau. As a decorator I have been cursed with the desire to transition the spaces in our home with minor or major changes at least every six months or start of a new season ( and because I can never really leave well enough alone;) The changes I implement are more than likely influenced with whatever I am inspired with at that moment, whether it be a particular country, culture or mood. I tend to not allow the popular decor trends to determine my aesthetic, but rather go in the direction of what feels right in my space, and in turn how that space makes me feel...

Thankfully, for my prince and I, our saturated-colored-global-elegance-with-transitional-and-eclectic-influences-and-touches-of-glam-Chateau makes us feel like the king and queen of our castle,but most importantly, we feel happy in our humble home.

Many new and exciting projects for C'est La Vie in the near horizon. Please don't stray too far and come back soon...

UPDATES Coming soon!!!!!

When was the last time you got your picture taken?

2011-04-28T00:19:00.007-04:00

Photography. I embrace photography of every category, it is without a doubt, one of my preferred art forms: photography of architecture, fashion, nature, landscapes and still lives are amongst my favorite subjects to shoot. However, when my subjects transition into little humans, or beautiful families, or sexy singles, or a couple in-love, well, photography takes on a deeper significance. It elevates the art form to a memory-making soul-enhancing experience I feel priviledged to partake in.

Photoshoot season is here - i.e. Spring/Summer - and with it the ability to take gorgeous natural light portraits that require little to no editing and no extra fancy equipment except my lens, my subjects and the perfect setting...

To celebrate this photography season, I am offering 25$ off the entire package on all photoshoots from May to June of 2011! That means you will get an already extremely reasonable package (click on link for pricing details) for even less! Make sure to take advantage and book an appointment as soon as possible!

Comment on this post or email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Here are samples of some PhotoShoots I have done in the past...

Campodonico Family

Valerie and Ashley

Ramirez Family

For more information please read the right-hand side bar or read our Services and Pricing Information Page. I look forward to hearing from you soon!

A Glorious and Gorgeous Office

2011-04-18T22:49:00.001-04:00

Design Plan for: Office
Client: Evelyn

(click to enlarge)

Evelyn, a stay at home wife with a succesful catering business she runs from home, was in dire need of a space to call her own. An office where she could quietly work on invoices, correspondence with clients and everything else needed to run a business. Until now she had been doing all of her "office" work on the kitchen table sharing the space with all of her cooking utensils. Not ideal. The space she asked me to design was a blank slate, a small empty room Evelyn and her husband had currently been using as a storage room in their city apartment. A lover of the arts, she asked that I design a room around one of her favorite Paul Gauguin prints, that I make it feminine with contemporary touches and that I inspire her to create even more amazing recipes. i was completely inspired myself, as I explained in this post, Gauguin is one of my favorite Impressionist Artist and so wiith this fresh, colorful, elegant and completely beautiful space, that is exactly what I set out to do!

Taking the gorgeous bright tones of saturated color from Gaugin's Tahitian landscape as accents, I decided to make the artwork the main focal point of the room by surrounding it against crisp white walls. To give it the proper elegance it deserves however, I made sure to select a beautiful, traditional styled frame and matting that will be customized to the right dimensions. I then selected functional but stylish (and affordable) furniture pieces in the same crisp white but pulled the turquoise blues, violets, bright orange reds and muted yellows as the accessories in the space. I also managed to incorporate a few uber feminine furniture pieces, namely the ornate French styled throne - er I mean chair - for the queen herself. In terms of textiles I chose a modern moorish pattern for the rug, and bright modern roman shades for the two small windows in the space. I was even able to incorporate her super feminine and cute rose colored Sony Vaio LapTop into the design.

Here is Evelyn's Testimonial in her own words:

At first glance my jaw dropped!!!!!!! Absolutely stunning!!!!!! As if it were more possible to fall in love with my Gauguin print, I am. I cannot wait to transform this space. You, like Gauguin are an artist! Incredible job! Thank you a million times over!!!!!!!!!

In need of transforming your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Design and Style Evaluation here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Glorious Gauguin

2011-04-14T00:17:00.008-04:00

"Can you design a room around this"? she asked.

Paul Gauguin Tahitian Flower Painting

"Gladly", said I.

Glorious. Glorious.Glorious Gauguin. A personal favorite of mine - his masterpieces are beyond inspirational! Take for instance this simple but stunning outdoor table setting with the beach background and that spectacular Tahitian color palette of intense aqua, sunny yellows, bright reds and the perfect soft shade of pink combined with Gauguin's unique style of flat areas of color and bold outlines. I cannot wait to show you what I come up with - a room worthy of this gorgeous print and perfect for the Season. Bright, Airy, Fresh and Unforgettable.

Btw, this is not the first time I am asked by a client to design a room around a favorite piece of art, remember Hyacinth and her fabulous foyer? One of my favorite projects, so much fun and a bit of a challenge, the best of both worlds for a decorator. Whee!;)

And speaking of "art", here's a sneak peak at another project I'm working on- pretty, pretty paper... (please excuse the poor quality of this BlackBerry picture)

Stay tuned mon amis:)

Cool Artwork for every color scheme...

2011-04-07T21:51:00.003-04:00

Have you had a looky-loo over to the right-hand side bar of this blog lately? If you take a quick visual walk over there you'll see there are quite a few cool looking Fine Art Gallery Prints Displayed, they all happen to be from my C'est La Vie Art Shop, pictures taken by me, all over the Globe. I wanted to take this moment to share just how cool these prints can look in different settings, wall colors and frames.

Check it out....

Antiquity Gallery
Sample 1- Two of our Antiquity Art Prints displayed in bright red frames with white mats on a white wall. The look is modern with a vintage twist and completely unexpected.

Sample 2 - Two of our Antiquity Art Prints displayed in ornate black frames on a nuetral colored wall. Traditional, visually interesting and vintage.

Chic Gallery
Two of our Chic Art Prints displayed in elegant silver frames with white mats on a magenta colored wall. The contrast is uber trendy, elegant and chic;)

Fresh Gallery
Two of our Fresh Art prints in white frames with white mats on a gray background for a beautiful pop of organic color. The look is classic, modern and fresh...

Urban Gallery

Sample 1 - Two of our Urban Fine Art Prints in clean-lined Gold frames with white mats on a pale gray wall. The look is elegant, versatile and stately.

Sample 2 - Two of our Urban Fine Art Prints in simple wood toned frames with white and slate gray mats over a white wall. Perfect for a clean, modern, masculine look.

Wild Gallery

Sample 1 - Two of our Wild Art Prints in exotic espresso wood frames with white mats on a safari green background. The look is bold, modern and sophisticated.

And there you have it, quite a few of these are samples of how these prints were used in real-life scenarios by my clients.

Interested in purchasing a print or two of your own? The process is quite easy, simply click on any of the links above and it will take you directly to that specific Gallery where you can browse all of the art prints and select your favorites. Or you can click HERE to see all of the other galleries in our shop. You then only have to simply click on the "Buy" button on the upper right-hand corner of each picture where you can select from a variety of finishes (metallic is my personal favorite) and numerous sizes. Everything from 4x6, to 12x12 to even canvas size, all at extremely reasonable prices. Custom Artwork for less than what you would pay for a mass produced piece of art in one of the more popular retail stores.

If you have any questions or need any additional help with purchasing from my shop, just leave me a comment or email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com! Happy Shopping.

Ill be back later with more featured galleries and more cool looking samples on how these art prints can look on your wall!

An "Ode to Spring" Wedding

2011-04-01T16:46:00.005-04:00

The beginning of Spring ( March 21st to be exact), is reason enough to celebrate - well with the burst of new life appearing everywhere and fresh, vibrant color replacing the dreary, muted tones of Winter - who wouldn't want to throw a party? Now how about we combine the exuberance of the coming of Spring with (hands down) one of the most memorable events in a gal's life - her wedding - and you have a marriage made in heaven.... (pun intended :)

The "gal" I am referring to just happens to be one of my closest and dearest friends, and when she called me up with the news that she had found her Prince Charming and their nuptials were set for March of 2012 (after much screaming and jumping up and down with excitement and joy for her), I set out to design an event worthy of this queen and her king! All she asked is that I incorporate her love of the color purple and keep to their strict budget. I enthusiastically went to work creating a design that was simple, but sublime and embraced - in both color and concept - the beauty of Spring...

(click to enlarge)

Here are the detailed components for this event:

The grape purple and apple green are the main color components I selected, combined with touches of platinum and white for a crisp modern twist, this palette evokes the vibrancy of Spring.
The purple and green invitations will reflect this traditional side flourish with a modern font for an appealing contrast.
The tablescape will be simple and fresh. Reminiscent of a garden party with purple linens, platinum table runners and simple folding chairs.
The centerpieces will be glass vases filled with green apples and touches of wild flowers in alternating heights. They will provide an organic, fresh and "edible" pop of color to the tablescape and are an excellent budget-friendly option to flowers.
For favors, the bride's talented brother in law is planning to make and assemble edible treats with personalized messages and poems that will be wrapped up into these cute and inexpensive platinum favor boxes.
The cake will be a simple, traditional white cake with touches of fresh flowers and miniature apples for decor. To go with the apple theme, one of the layers may contain an apple jam filling :)
For place cards, an aromatic miniature bundle of dried lavender sprigs will provide not only seating assignments but an added little souvenir for guests to take home.
The bridal attire will also reflect the freshness of Spring with apple green bridesmaid dresses, beautiful purple stilettos for the Bride and a sharp looking striped green and purple tie for the Groom;)
Finally, to satiate the palette, miniature bottles of Spring Water in Perrier bottles will be set out for all the guests to enjoy.

Here is the Bride's Reaction in her own words:
"Omg!! I Love it!!!!!! You went above and beyond with this design, everything is GORGEOUS, thank you sooo much, now I am even more excited than ever!"

Wedding season is around the corner, in need of creative, innovative budget-friendly event ideas for your special day? Need inspiration to throw that fabulous soiree? Don't know where to start with the planning of your important event? Want the look of a platinum party on a pauper's budget? You've come to the right place. Please fill out my What is your Design Style Questionnaire or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com to begin!

Please check out the other wonderful events I've had the pleasure to design and succesfully launch by clicking on the Ces't La Vie Parties and Events page. (click on link to be re-directed to this page, or look for it under "Pages" in the sidebar) and make sure to check back often for updates!

I'm no Picasso....

2011-03-29T16:09:00.001-04:00

But I love to paint. Even if this "painting" refers to simple up and down (or small crisscrossed w's) strokes over a living room wall. Yep, we are definitely not talking cubism or post-impressionism folks, we are talking basic geometric blocks of color. However, even those can look quite dapper in the right setting:)

Case in point, as I had mentioned in this post the living room was due for some small upgrades for Spring. After a couple of weeks of painting and re-painting because, um, I changed my mind, which happens quite frequently (this whole process will be explained in a future post:), I finally got the living room in Chateau C'est La Vie to where it made me smile with satsifaction! All but one wall that was begging for some new art work. Being a budget-decorator, I wanted to add some custom artwork spending the least bit of money possible. So that is when I remembered that I had found some old white painting canvases, still in their package in a corner of our garage. Here they are ready to be tampered with:

I decided that I would make these into a custom-art work project using left-over paint from the living room for a cost-free art solution. It was very simple. Here is the processs with pictures:

Using painter's tape and a level, I sectioned off the areas I wanted to paint using alternating widths on the canvases.

Then using the left-over paint from the painting projects in my living room, I painted the tape sections and then removed the painter's tape before it dried. The lines were not perfectly straight, but that is the effect I wanted to create. I wanted something to look more free-formed and blend into the canvas almost like a horizon. I went back in and corrected a few areas with my brush and then let them dry.

And here is the end result, I love the way it coordinates with the colors in this space and the fact that it is unique, custom artwork for free!

By the way, here is a sneak peak of my gorgeous new Chandelier, Lucy.

And since I'm in the mood for sneak peaks. Here are a few more, like my gorgeous new mirrored side table, Gwen, because she's Glamorous like that;)

Truly in -love, with both... And both Lucy and Gwen were purchased on sale, at an amazing discount price, love the look of luxury on a budget;)

Full reveal and many more updates of the changes I've made in our little Chateau coming very soon. I'll leave you with one more that I'm sure fellow shoe-lovers will like. After being in hiding inside clear shoe boxes in a dark closet, I decided my pretties would feel so much better on display, as art themselves. Love the pop of beautiful color they provide to that side of our master:

Many more projects in the work, including some exciting wedding event designs, master bedroom, kitchen and dining room transformations and much, much more. Stay tuned Mon Amis...

A Dramatic, Elegant and Inviting Master Bedroom

2011-03-22T15:24:00.001-04:00

Design Plan for: Master Bedroom
Client: Erica

(click to enlarge)

Erica, a busy wife and mother of three, was desperately looking to transform her bedroom into a romantic, inviting and elegant escape for her and her husband. She and her hubby had already selected a new traditional style bed (pictured), and asked me to design the room around that piece of furniture while incorporating a visually stimulating color palette that would provide that "wow" factor upon entering. They also specified that I work in as many of their existing furniture pieces as possible, and keep the design to their 1k budget. Quite the interesting but exciting challenge!

I quickly went to work on a gorgeous color palette that I was sure would knock their socks off! Here it is with all of the components and a brief caption on how they would be used in the room identified in each color swatch:

(click to enlarge)

As is identified by this color board, Benjamin Moore's Eggplant would play center stage as the dramatic accent wall in this space - the canvas from which I chose all of the other accent colors, like the Wasabi Green , the Gold and the Rust to play off of. The combination makes for a multi-layered, dimensional and super visually appealing space.

The style is a mix of traditional and contemporary elements creating the recipe for a beautiful transitional space. The design evokes a fresh and modern ambiance, jusxtaposed with elegant and luxurious looking elements that tie everything together. The best part was that every single item selected for this design looks so much more expensive than its actual price-tag, I chose every item on sale or clearance! As for the artwork, both of these amazing botanical prints will tie in perfectly into the scheme and can be found in my Fresh Fine Art Photography Shops. Despite some of the budget and space obstacles I had to encounter, I was so incredibly pleased with the end result of this design and even more importantly, so was Erica.

Here is Erica's Testimonial in her own words:
"I am ABSOLUTELY IN-LOVE!!!!!!!! This is EXACTLY what I wanted, and so much more. Thank you so much for your patience, for sitting down and helping me determine what my style is and for coming up with a color palette that I love! You are AMAZING, next up my dining room and then hopefully the rest of the house!"

Here are the Before Pictures:

After pictures of the transformation to come soon:)

For more information on the details and components of this fantastic design plan, please reply to this post, or email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com with your questions and comments.

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Application Here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Inspired.

2011-03-09T11:31:00.002-05:00

As a designer, I am constantly and irrevocably allowing my eyes to wander onto copious (albeit, sometimes insignificant) details. Unexpected pops of color, textures found in nature, rays of light, the variation of color hues on a sunset sky, the effervescent foam that forms on the top of a delicious cappuccino... In summary, I find inspiration everywhere and anywhere, and sometimes in the oddest forms and from the least expected sources.

Other times however, inspiration finds me!

Take for instance the other day while shopping for groceries, I was standing in line minding my business when I see the latest issue of Elle Magazine with Katy Perry in an amazingly bright and beautiful spring ensemble staring at me straight in the face:

I was immediately drawn to her gorgeous, saturated Spring ensemble, specifically the combination of Kelly Green and Grape, a gorgeous contrasting color duo. This type of palette can be applied to everything from fashion to event design to interior decor, the options are limitless.

Speaking of interior decor, one of my most recent clients is looking to completely transform her master bedroom into a dramatic, mood-enhancing and elegant space. She wanted me to come up with a color palette that combined both warm and cool colors but that would provide the space a much anticipated "wow" factor.

Taking the cover of Elle as inspiration, I went to work putting together a color palette that I am convinced will knock her socks off:) This picture provides a teaser of the color combo I plan to use:

The deep,dramatic Eggplant color combined with a modern, cooler colored Wasabi Green makes for a stunning and viisually stimulating contrast for any space. With the addition of a few other accent colors that will be incorporated through accessories and textiles, this master bedroom will transform into the master bedroom my client is dreaming of.

Please stay tuned for the "big reveal" (i.e. design board, and description of plan) coming very soon...

Question, where and how do you find inspiration?

Spring Picks - Traditional, Ornate, European

2011-02-28T15:52:00.003-05:00

The soft and ethereal pastel hues found in Spring , such as Cherry Blossoms, Lillies, Pale-Colored Roses and many other lovely flora, have me inspired to select gorgeous, traditional, feminine and European styled spaces to share, inspire and design.

Perfect for the softer side of Spring:

This entire vignette is absolute perfection. Uber French. Uber Chic. Uber feminine.

Dusty Rose colored Damask wallpapered walls and fabric. French styled furniture with traditional gold and distressed detailing - Uber beautiful.

Traditional styled chairs get a modern stripe and work flawlessly with that stunning chandelier and ornate fireplace.

The authentically aged cottage walls, weathered furniture and muted tones make for an exquisite take on shabby chic.

This gold-glitched French style chair would be the ideal elegant accent to any room.

Can't get enough of French style mirrors. They can work flawlessly with both traditional, transitional and eclectic designs.

Every component of this image makes me giddy with delight. Sublime.

Perfectly distressed magenta colored Bombe chest. Need I say more?

Traditional. Simple. Elegant.

Adore the traditionally ornate architecture of this space juxtaposed with the modern and clean-lined furnishings.

The traditinal scroll design of this gorgeous pillow had me at "hello."

Aren't these spaces and pieces incredibly inspiring? Soft, elegant, European styled, what's not to love?

Thinking many of these type of European styled spaces would work perfectly with artwork from my Antiquity Fine Art Gallery. Have a look, browse the collection, you may find the ideal print to add the perfect finishing touch to your Traditionally Styled, Shabby Chic space:)

Stay tuned for more of my "Spring Picks", new client interior design spaces, changes and updates to Chateau C'est La Vie, and much, much more....

Spring Picks - Contemporary, Bold and Modern.

2011-02-24T18:43:00.010-05:00

Just a few drool-worthy items that have caught my designer eye. Colorful, creative, and seasonally inspired. Perfect for Spring.

Vapor Chairs, better known as "Ghost Chairs". Light, airy, ethereal, barely-there elegance to sit your tush on. What’s not to love?

Image from CB2

Big, beautiful, bold colored blooms - art displayed on a pillow. These had me at "hello."

Somehow this "Dodo Bird" design is not so dodo-looking in this whimsical and colorful design. And this graphic floral pattern just screams Spring. Lovely, no?

Loving the sense of humor on this punchy pillow. I'm sure these smiling faces would feel right at home against the perfect neutral colored sofa or chair. And this rainbow striped inspired pillow would be the perfect pop of color in a neutral room.

Heading in another direction, classic black and white becomes bold, modern and graphic with this lovely piece...

And this one. What a chic and femininely sweet print juxtaposed in a modern way...

Let's talk art. Funky, fabulous and global inspired. Any of these pieces would sing on a bare wall...

Vases. Gotta love a vase that is called "The Genie."

(all items from CB2 and Crate&Barrel)

Thinking many of these accesssories would work flawlessly with an one of the prints from my Urban Fine Art Photography Gallery. Please take a look, browse the collection, you might find the ideal print to accent your space and add just the right colorful touch:)

I'll have plenty more drool-worthiness to share in a future post. Stay Tuned....:)

Oh, and as a reminder - only 3 days left for our amazing first-year anniversary sale, where you will receive 25% off any of our services. Please take advantage now!

Elegant and Whimsy Inspired Anniversary Comes to Life...

2011-02-18T17:11:00.004-05:00

Do you recall when I posted about this Anniversary Event Design I created for a client, with all of the components explained Here:

Well my clients absolutely loved the design and executed the entire concept beautifully and to a tee!

Here are a few of the Day of Event pictures, where this event design came to life:

Didn't it all look simply lovely?! My clients took all of the elements I provided them: the colorful design board, the product source list, the detailed written consultation on how to arrange everything into an appealing and beautiful table-scape, and created a masterpiece of a party! As you will note, with some of the details they drew inspiration from my event design and came up with their own alternatives, (i.e.such as the trifecta of gold candleholders in place of a candelabra, the cake embelishments, and all of the gorgeous printed products: menus, table-numbers, etc) it all resulted in the perfect finishing touches!

The party was a wonderful success and I was so honored to be a part of such a special day!

Interested in throwing your own fabulous soiree? Need a some inspiration to help you get started, or maybe somebody to handle all of the planning details? Then you've come to the right place! Please visit my Event and Party Design Portfolio as well as my Services and Pricing Information (link on side bar) page to get started!

With Spring around the corner I am incredibly inspired to create a gorgeous, memorable and budget-friendly event for you and your friends!

The Bold and The Beautiful

2011-02-14T19:11:00.020-05:00

The hopeful expectancy of Spring is in the air here in New York City and surrounding areas. The air is warmer, fresher, softer....a gentle breeze of re-birth and new life is whispering through the naked branches and melting the snow mounds. Inspiring.

Spring signifies so many different things to so many, to me however, it means the prospect of bold, beautiful, saturated color returning to nature; enveloping, rapturing us in it's scenic and aromatic surroundings. It is reflected in everything from gorgeous flora and fauna, to fashion and interior design. It also happens to boldly make it's way into my home and heart. I am a sole believer of infusing color into my life, wardrobe and home. It energizes me. Inspires me. Defines me.

Here are some amazing spaces that have stimulated my eyes and moved my emotions...

Crisp, Invigorating, Deep Oceanic Blue, Turquoise and Teals:

Stimulating, sensational yet sophisticated Citrus Oranges in everything from grapefruit to mandarin:

(sixx design)

Luxurious, Inviting and Fresh Greens, from Lime to Emerald and everything in between:

(design by Sherril Cannet, Kips Bay)

(picture and design by Tobi Fairley Interior Design)

One of my personal favorites for as long as I can remember and coincidentally Pantone's Hue of the year for 2011 - is Honeysuckle, better known as fuchsia, raspberry, or magenta. It exudes romance, sensuality, passion and power. It is gorgeous as an accent, and exciting as the front runner:

(image from homegoods)

(image from HomeGoods)

(images from various designers and on-line sources. I gave credit to those images who's source was provided.)

Incredible what bold color does to a room, no? Memorable to say the least. Magnificent to say the most!

When it comes to our home, lovingly named - chateau c'est la vie, it should come as no surprise then, that I gravitate towards the bold, beautiful saturated color numbers; like bees to honey. For the past couple of years my fascination had been directed specifically towards the citrus colors. With having a soft, lemon yellow in my kitchen, and a beautiful and bright mandarin orange in my living room. One of the favorite spaces in our home:

(the following images and design are all mine, Chateau C'est La Vie)

(When it comes to designing my own space, my philosophy is "work with what you have." I am saving my pennies to replace these leather loveseats with a clean-lined, mid-century style sofa and vintage settee that I would re-upholster with a bold, modern fabric. For now however, these sofas will have to do. I've had them for about eight years and they are in amazing shape. By dressing them up with beautiful, colorful throw pillows and hanging interesting artwork above, it distracts from the less-than ideal shape and texture.)

(the right accessories are key)

(My art and picture gallery wall is one of my favorite focal areas of the room. I adore the "collected over time" feel of arrangements like these. Many of the frames contain my black and white fine art photography prints that work flawlessly against the bold color of the wall, but will also work against a more nuetral backdrop.)

(prints from my Antiquity Gallery of Fine Art Photography)

(that chocolate brown accent wall is getting a new look:)

(prints from my Wild Gallery of Fine Art Photography)

(I adore the look of mis-matched items working flawlessly together in a cohesive and interesting manner. Its all about acheiving the right balance and color scheme. Eclectic Elegance is what I call it.)

(prints from my Chic Gallery of Fine Art Photography)

(This ceiling fan has become a bit of an eye-sore. It has been in our home for quite a few years and was previously sporting outdated brass fixtures which I spray painted over with an oil-rubbed bronze finish. The hubs asked that we keep it for function during those schorching summer days. However, since we solely use this room for when guests are over and have a separate lounging area, he agreed we could finally replace this eye-sore with a chandelier I have been coveting.)

I'll give you a sneak peak to the lovely lighting piece that will soon be the centerpiece of this room:

Isn't she just gorg? I want to call her Lucy. Lovely, lovely Lucy. Trust me, she looks much more expensive than she actually is. Love the platinum look on a pauper's budget;)

*UPDATE: Check out all the changes to this room (and others in our humble chateau HERE!) *

As is evident by the images above, aside from affinity for saturated color, I am also no stranger to mixing different textures, colors, and patterns into a cohesive, worldly inspired and visually stimulating manner. I like my home to reflect my personality: Vibrant, elegant, and inviting!

That being said, the onslaught of Spring has inspired me to make some dramatic changes in the living room. As much as I adore bold color on the walls, I am going to switch it up for something slightly more subtle. Do not despair, there will still be lots of bold, beautiful, jewel-toned color incorporated in the design, but this time in smaller doses, and as an accent. I am currently working on the design board and cannot wait to share my decor plans with you. Don't you just love Spring?

What about you? How does color touch your life? Please Share, I'd love to hear your thoughts...

Also, please don't forget you have a couple more weeks to take advantage of our amazing sale:

Attention: Special One-Year Anniversary Sale February 1st - 28th! 25% off all services!!!! Take advantage now! Visit our Services and Pricing page for more information!

Stylish Blogger Award

2011-02-10T20:26:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday all ! I am honored to have received the following award:

Thank you to Bargain Corner Design's for your thoughtful and sweet gesture!:)

Here are seven facts about me:

1. The sight of new stamps on my old passport makes me smile.
2. The other two men in my life (besides the hubs) are Jo and Nick (my cup of coffee and my camera:)
3. Clam Chowder and I are not friends.
4. Period films, BBC specials, and Masterpiece theatre are amongst my favorite things to watch.
5. I am a mut. Born an American Ecuadorian/Italian with a bit of Scottish, Chinese and French thrown in for good measure:)
6. Colin Firth makes my heart go pitter-patter.
7. Sometimes when I cook, I daydream that I have my own food show and I talk to a make-believe TV audience :)

**There are some rules that go along with this.

1. You have to thank the person who awarded you & Link them back in your post

2. Tell everyone 7 random facts about yourself

3. Pass the award on to 12 new found bloggers

4. Contact each blogger and let them know you've passed the award on to them, & let the "giver" know you accept the award.

Here are some bloggers that I want to give the award to that I have recently found and like a lot!

Baby's Breath Handmade

Artistic Inclinations

Sweet Spot Card Shop

Maria and Kata Jewelry Creations

Le Rayon Bebe

Baby Cachet Invitations and Announcements

Retail Therapy Lounge

Allegro Mama

FunFritz Family

Sense and Simplicity

Bree, Home of Blogmania

Our Breezy Beach Life

Please visit every single one of these great blogs and tell them I referred you. Have fun discovering these bloggers and lets show them some support for their hard work, beautiful creations and pages. Oh and don't forget to congratulate them!

Thank you for your support, don't forget to become a follower, I will return the love!:)

Chic by C'est La Vie Events Photography and giveaway winner!

2011-02-08T17:37:00.087-05:00

Hello world. I have two exciting announcements today! Let's start with the winner of the First Year Anniversary Giveaway. Drumroll please...

Number 18, the entry by Jenna of SAS Interiors! Congratulations Jenna, thank you so much for entering my giveway!

Jenna shared the following comment:

"Thanks for letting me know about this amazing giveaway! You're photographs are breathtaking...thank you for sharing!"

I will be contacting your shortly with details on how you will recieve your prize. Your first portrait of choice:

Wind.

I will also be throwing in her second favorite choice:

Perched

Thank you as well to all who participated and entered. I will most certainly be hosting other giveaways on a more frequent basis. Therefore, please be sure to stay tuned for the next one for a chance at your own fine art photography print!

On that note, announcement number two is the launch of our most recent Art Gallery from our Fine Art Photography Shop.

This week's featured gallery is portrayed in the slideshow below and appropriately named - Chic.

"These unique and visually stimulating images were captured in distinct parts of the Globe and depict the meaning of the word "Chic", from my perspective. These portraits capture the essence of all things fashionable, stylish and sophisticated and are portrayed in an artistic eye-catching manner. Any single of one of these prints would look ideal hung on both neutral and colored walls, and easily tie into any decor style or theme for both the home and office space. The fashion and lighting portraits would look ideal in a chic dressing room, feminine styled bedroom or in a sophisitcated boutique or furniture shop. Also perfect as a personalized gift for fashion and furniture lovers alike! Simply click on the "Buy" button to select your professional grade prints that will conveniently be packaged and sent directly to your home ready to frame and hang!"

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Metallic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6 @ only $2.50 - $3.25 per print
5x7 @ only $12 - $15 per print
8x10 @ only $18 - $22 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Finally, many of these prints will also be available in the new C'est La Vie Events Photography ETSY shop, to be launched soon...

Stay tuned for many new and interesting posts coming your way, including the seasonal Spring changes I will be making to Chateau C'est La Vie...can't wait to breath new fresh air into a few of our spaces and I plan to take you all along for the ride...(or at least the planning process;)

First Year Anniversary Giveaway!

2011-02-02T14:08:00.010-05:00

I am so incredibly pleased and excited about my first blog giveaway! What better way to celebrate the one-year anniversary since officially launching C'est La Vie, than to award you (my readers, past and present clients, friends and family), with gorgeous custom-artwork to decorate your homes or offices - as a show of my gratitude!

I appreciate your support more than simple words can express and am thrilled about the possibilities for this New Year! Without further adieu, let's get on with the details of the giveaway...

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE GIVEAWAY

Five (count them, 5) opportunities to win!

(click on the pictures to enlarge)

1. Siblings

2. Wind

3. Domestic Hands

4. Ears.

5. Perched

1. From my Oceania Fine Art Gallery. This 5x7 fine art photography print in professional grade lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken while exploring the gorgeous beaches on South Africa's Cape. Would look ideal in a nautical or beach-themed room, or in any room with soothing cool tones.

2. From my Fresh Fine Art Gallery. This 5x7 fine art photography print in professional grade lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken in an open flower field near historical Concord, Ma. Would look ideal against any wall color, but especially rooms with muted tones. Great for nurseries, sunrooms or bedrooms.

3. From my Antiquity Fine Art Gallery. This 5x7 fine art photography print in professional grade lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken while touring the Plymouth Plantation in Historical Massachusetts. Would look ideal in any vintage or shabby chic themed room, or against any saturated wall color.

4. From my Wild Fine Art Gallery. This 5x7 fine art photography print in professional grade lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken while on Safari on the Zambezi River in Zambia, Africa. Would look ideal in any safari-themed room or den, or any room for that matter. Perfect for the animal lover.

5. From my Urban Fine Art Gallery. This 5x7 fine art photography print in professional grade lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken while visiting one of NYC's oldest neighborhoods, the lower east side. Perfect in an industrial, urban themed room or loft. Also works flawlessly for modern or eclectic decor.

HOW TO ENTER

1. Answer the following question by commenting on this post.

"Which is the one city or country in the world you most want to travel to?"
(you can also indicate "why", but it is not necessary in order to win.)

2. Indicate which print you would like to win in order of most favorite to least favorite.

Example: 4,3,1,2,5

3. Follow or subscribe to this blog. Its quite simple. (If you have a gmail account, simply click on the "follow" widget on the right-hand side bar. If you don't have a gmail, simply subscribe using your email address in the box indicated above the follow widget.)

Simple as those three steps!!!!

Edit: For those who comment using their name or anonymous as an option, please include your name and an email address in your comment so I can reach you in case you win!

EXTRA ENTRY OPPORTUNITIES:

If you facebook or tweet about this giveaway with a link back to my blog, you get one extra entry. Once you tweet or facebook, come back and comment again.

If you blog about this giveaway with a link back to my blog, you get two extra entries. Once you blog, come back and comment twice with the link to your post.

Edit: (I have extended the giveaway one more day!) This giveaway ends on Tuesday, February 8 at 12 AM EST. Giving you 6 days to enter! The winner will be chosen via random.org.

Note: You may have to refresh the page or hit enter twice to ensure your comment has gone through, blogger can be tempermental at times.

ADDED BONUS & OFFER:

To up the anty, I've decided to add a special bonus offer. Purchase prints from any one of the C'est La Vie Fine Art Photography Galleries linked above, and automatically win the following print:

Lords Chamber

A 5x7 print in either lustre or glossy finish (your choice.) This print was taken in an authentic 500-year old Gaelic castle in Corofin, Ireland. This black and white portrait works with just about any wall color. Ideal for shabby chic or vintage style decor. Make sure to comment and let me know you put through an order for purchase. To purchase, simply browse the galleries, choose the portrait(s) of choice and and click on the "Buy" button on the upper left-hand side.

THANK YOU so much for being a reader of my blog and joining me in celebrating our anniversary!

Disclaimer: Winners will receive these photography art prints valued up to $15 each, completely free!!! However, shipping costs are not included, shipping in the continental U.S. will be $1.50, International shipping is $3, shipping will be charged via pay-pal.

Its our one-year anniversary, but you are getting the presents!

2011-02-01T21:13:00.000-05:00

Today marks the official one year anniversary since launching C'est La Vie! To celebrate, as promised...

Please be sure to come back tomorrow for all of the juicy details! And don't forget to spread the news about this giveaway as well as our amazing monthly sale!

Your House Wants a Make-Over...

2011-01-31T21:07:00.002-05:00

Is your living room, dining room or master bedroom craving for an upgrade? Is your kitchen, craft room or kids' bedrooms begging for a make-over? Are they looking tired, disheveled, outdated and depressed?

If you've answered yes to the questions above, then its time to give them the much needed transformation your house is craving, without breaking the bank! You know why? Because I am offering some amazing discounts. Pay attention, details below:

In honor of our One Year Anniversary, C'est La Vie Interiors is offering a fantastic sale! From February 1st - 28th, you will receive an automatic 25% OFF all Services!!!!! For detailed listing of services and pricing, please click here.

Yes, you read correctly, that means you can beautify, transform and update up to two rooms in your home for less than a Benjamin Franklin bill. Not bad, aye? (This discount also applies to my in person decorating packages, event planning and design and even my photography shoots!) Please take advantage of this sale and don't forget to share with family and friends!!!

Be kind to your house, he or she deserves it, and so do you!!!! :)

In more celebratory anniversary news, giveaways in the horizon. Fine Art Photography prints will be up for grabs! Stay tuned...

One Year Anniversary, A time to Celebrate!

2011-01-28T14:28:00.044-05:00

February 1st will mark the one-year anniversary since officially launching C'est La Vie! Let's drink to that!!! In order to celebrate this great accomplishment, I will be offering spectacular sales and special giveaways (more details to come soon.)

I've also made a few cosmetic changes as is evident by our fantastic new blog header and logo, special thanks to Vladimir from ICU2 Productions who designed it! And as a girl who loves a good make-over, I've also transformed and updated the blog with a whole new look that I believe evokes a cleaner, fresher, more stream-lined appearance. Do you approve? I hope so, because I LOVE it! Aghh, there is truly nothing like a little change to make you feel instantly fabulous!:)

As we move into our second year I will also be adding new services and products. For instance, I now offer Style Identity and Branding Packages like the one I created below for a recent client and friend.

Style and Branding Identity Board, Client: Melina

(click to enlarge)

We determined her identity style was classic traditionalism with a slight modern twist. This inspiration board will aid her in everything from deciding what patterns and fonts to use for her business packaging, branding and digital media (i.e. blogs, logos); to what types of textures and colors she can incorporate into her home.

Here is Melina's Testimonial in her own words: " LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!! The patterns and textures...soooooooo me!!! Seriously!!! The color palette , well I have just about each of those colors in my wardrobe!!! Love the font, love the motifs and decorative elements for digital and printed media, especially the top blue...that's my favorite color I think! I navigate towards it ALOT!!!! Oh and the mauves burgundy and browns...so pretty!!! OK I am very happy and impressed my dear. Love that you got me...I love the classic style but not overly frilly and indulgent...like you said with a modern twist...WOW you are GOOD!!!!!"

Each package will contain a customized color palette, suggested patterns and textures, font and motif options as well as fashion advice (when requested.) More information can be found on the Services and Pricing Information page. (For one of your very own please fill out my style questionnaire and email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com and we can begin!)

Please stay tuned for all of the exciting things to come in this new year! As always thank you so much for your continued support and for making this first year a memorable one!!!!

(Don't forget to continue to suggest my Blog to friends and family, ask them to subscribe via email or become a follower via gmail.)

When Event and Party Designs Come to life....

2011-01-24T18:00:00.002-05:00

Would you like to see a few of my Event Designs come to life? I thought you might:)

Let's start off with one of the more recent parties I designed and deployed. A fun and fabulous Rainbow Colored Themed Kids Party. It was all about color, candy and cartoon characters. Who wouldn't have fun with that? I can guarantee this party brought out the kid in all of us!

Here is the Event Design I came up with:

And here are the pictures of the "Day of Completion" where the party Came to life:

(all photography by C'est la Vie Events Photography unless otherwise noted.)

The kids had so much fun! However, its same to assume I think the Adults and Parents had even more;)

Next up, the 5th Year Wedding Anniversary Party that my husband and I hosted back in October of 2010, discussed here and here. We wanted to celebrate our love and the anniversary of our special day amongst our beloved family and friends. We also wanted something glamorous, elegant and joyous but on a strict budget (as I do with most of my soirees.) A Platinum Event on a Pauper's Penny, if you will, I beleive we succeeded!

The theme I came up with was Retro Glam (think 30s and 40s, feathers, a little bling) meets a modern NYC lounge (black and white - even the guests came in black and white cocktail attire - moody candlelight, a top-notch bartender, and pops of silver and fuschia for visual interest.)

Here is the Event Design I came up with:

And here are the Day of Completion detail shots of the set-up and party day:

(The following four pictures by SR Wedding Photography)

(The following pictures by Melina Diaz Fuentes.)

Plenty more "Day of Completion" pictures to follow for other Event Designs. I don't know about you, but I personally love when I can see a Party come to life!

Looking to throw your own fun, fabulous and memorable event but don't know where to begin? In need of a great Event Design as well as the nitty-gritty on all of the party planning details and how to make your event "come to life?" Then you've come to the right place, please fill out my Questionnaire and email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com, so we can get started!

"Chic" by C'est La Vie Events Photography (Teaser)

2011-01-14T13:22:00.001-05:00

Chic by C'est La Vie Events Photography

Teaser pictures of the newest Fine Art Photography Gallery to be launched - Chic. Inspired by Everything Glamorous, Elegant, Fashionable and Chic...

These prints will be available for purchase to frame and hang in your homes, offices or as the perfect gift for lovers of all things chic, fashionable and glamorous:) Information and details on how to purchase and more examples coming very soon...

A Timeless,Transitional and Uber Terrific Living Room

2011-01-03T17:25:00.001-05:00

Design Plan for: Living Room
Client: Yadi.

(click to enlarge)

Yadi, a super talented decorater herself, asked me to help her re-design her living room from a classically traditional and old-world styled space into something more contemporary, fresh and modern. The starting off point would be these fabulous traditional-styled wingbacks that are currently cherry wood and a pale-gold fabric. I suggested she re-upholster these in a sophisticated and luxurious gold and black fabric and reinvent the wood with a black laquer finish. These amazing chairs, along with Yadi's request that I incorporate artwork from my Urban and Fresh Fine Art Photography Shops , inspired this design plan. I can say with all candor that this is one of the spaces I would like to see in my own Chateau C'est La Vie one day, Yadi and I have very similar decor aesthetics. I thoroughly enjoyed creating this design!

Here is Yadi's Testimonial in her own words:
"I am completely floored, this is jaw-droppingly GORGEOUS!!!!! I am In-LOVE with your design! You are absolutely the BEST, may God continue to bless you with such amazing talent!"

For more information on the details and components of this fantastic design plan, please reply to this post, or email me to cestlavie.events@gmail.com with your questions and comments.

Next up, the relase of two fabulous new Fine Art Photography Galleries - Chic and Ice. Stay tuned....

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Application Here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Elegant, Colorful and Whimsy Inspired Anniversary Party

2010-12-29T17:52:00.022-05:00

Thirty years of wedded bliss is quite the significant accomplishment in this day and age, definitely an event to be celebrated commemorated and honored! My most recent client, a personal friend of mine, will be hosting a surprise anniversary party to celebrate her parents' thirty years of marriage. Their wedding was quite the simple affair so she asked that this party be extra special and memorable! It was with great pleasure then, that I set out to design an event fitting of this lovely couple and their marriage milestone!!!!

(click to enlarge)

Here are the detailed components for this event:

The turquoise,brown and burnt orange color scheme was chosen by the client herself, I added a fourth component that will add just the right touch of elegance and old-world charm with the Gold. I believe the Saturated and classic combination is simply lovely!
The invitations will include an old-world styled medallion in this modern orange accent color and will include a combination of modern and classical elements. The chocolate envelopes will add rich contrast.
The tablescape will be simple but full of beautiful color with these turquoise tablecloths, chocolate runners and the gold chargers that will set the tone and accent the room.
The centerpieces will be a combination of simple and classic floral vases with these stunning roses as the show-stoppers. Alternating with these elegant old-world inspired candelabras with the perfect burnt orange taper candle. The floral tables will include these delicate etched mango votives as well to create the ideal romantic ambiance.
For favors, a monochromatic candy buffet displayed in apothecary vases will look stunning and bring in that element of delicious sweetness and whimsy.
This cake had me at hello. The design is edgy and whimsical, but wwith traditional accents that can be incorporated with those gorgeous chocolate roses.
And last but certainly not least is the elegant and delcious Merlot-Cabarnet wine bottles from Yellow-Tail that will not only add visual interest to the tables but satiate the thirst palette.

PPlease check out the other wonderful events I've had the pleasure to design and succesfully launch by clicking on the Ces't La Vie Parties and Events page. (click on link to be re-directed to this page, or look for it under "Pages" in the sidebar) and make sure to check back often for updates!

Next up - details on the fabulous forties-glam meets NY lounge inspired 5th Year Anniversary Bash my husband and I hosted this year.

Need inspiration to throw that fabulous soiree? Don't know where to start with the planning of your important event? Want the look of a platinum party on a pauper's budget? You've come to the right place. Please fill out my What is your Design Style Questionnaire or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com to begin!

Time to Toast Talent (Again)

2010-12-27T18:57:00.010-05:00

It's time for another edition of Toast to Talent, a series that was initiated some time ago where I dedicate a post to featuring and discussing the talents and creations of my fellow E-Business Entrepreneurs, who just happen to be personal friends:)

In this post we will be highlighting four of some of the most creative and crafty Work At Home Mothers I know, ladies who are creating crafting empires with their beautiful and unique handmade items. (Hmm "Creating Crafting Empires" has a nice ring to it. Doesn't it?:) I digress...

Let's start with a lady who has turned her talent for crafting and creating gorgeous vintage-inspired handmade accessories into a successful business, Joyce from Baby's Breath - Handmade Accessories and Unique Gifts. Her products are constantly featured in ETSY treasuries and other media platforms due to her impeccable taste for detail and ability to churn out a wide variety of items for every age range and taste aesthetic. Everything from stylish fashion rings to hand-knit neck warmers. This fabulous business entrepanuer is also a dear friend and I urge you to stop by her ETSY shop and peruse her incredible creations! I promise you will come away with an order, if not for yourself, then as the perfect gift for a loved one!

I've had the pleasure to purchase a few of her beautifully made photography props for newborns that I used in this photo shoot below. I promise the quality of these crochet hats are even more stunning in person!

Finally, I also wanted to share a BlackBerry (unfortunately, not the best quality) picture of one of her gorgeous fashion rings on my hand. I have received so many compliments when I wear this!!!

The second incredibly talented lady I am going to feature today is the owner and Creator of Talis Chique Boutique, Melina. Her love and passion for her beautiful baby girl Tali - who she dresses in the most adorable ensembles - as well as the lack of suitable hair accessories to complement these ensembles, inspired her to begin creating beautiful and elegant hair bows and hair accessories. After observing her obvious talent and creativity, many others asked if she could create custom hair accessories for their little girls and hence, a great business venture was born! She has expanded her shop to include a plethora of amazing little items to dress up any little Princess, and specializes in the most exquisite and well-made tutus you will ever see! I also have the pleasure to call her my friend am very pleased to share her creations with all of you! Please make sure to visit her Facebook Business Page and become a fan, you will not regret it!

I have personaly purchased three of her specialty bow/headbands as gifts for special little humans in my life, as well as a set of her tutus with matching floral headbands from her Spring Line for a photo shoot below. All of the items are even more gorgeous in person!

For more pictures from this shoot where these adorable creations are featured click Here.

Thirdly, I would like to discuss another uber talented lady who has mastered the ability to create gorgeous jewelry pieces that look so much more high end than their affordable price tag, and create a business out of it, Maria from Maria and Kata Jewelry creations! She creates a variety of different styles and colors and has so many beautiful collections to choose from!!! Please make sure to stop by her ETSY shop and peruse her lovely creations!

I purchased a pair of earrings from her Diva Collection in one of my favorite colors ever and albeit I have not been able to debut them yet, I cannot wait to do so! I just know I will receive a ton of compliments. Here are a few pictures I took to display just how pretty they are, they actually look great as a decor accessory as well if I do say so myself;)

Lastly but certainly not least, is the uber talented creator and designer behind Sweet Spot CardShop, Sandy. This lady has the most uncanny ability with creating beautiful custom-card and specializes in a skill called “quilling,” where she rolls pieces of paper to create the most adorable characters and creatures. Her cards range from the succulently sweet to the slap-your-knee funny! You will be most pleased to visit her ETSY shop and order up a card for yourself or to give to somebody who's day you'd like to brighten!

I purchased a custom-card for a dear friend who had recovered from a very delicate sugery. I told her to create a card "Fit for a Queen" and this is what she came up with. They are even more memorable in person, trust me!

And there you have it. The Second edition of a Toast To Talent, make sure to please click on the links I have listed and browse each and very one of these amazing shops and on-line boutiques! Also be on the lookout for the next installment!

Coming soon To Ces't La Vie Events

2010-12-09T15:36:00.001-05:00

Coming soon to C'est La Vie Events:

An upcoming Toast to Talent post where I will feature some incredibly talented work-at-home mothers who are creating crafting empires.
A few new fun and exciting photoshoots I've had the pleasure to take.
Two new Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Galleries, one entitled "Chic" and the other "Ice."
New Event Designs for an anniversary and graduation parties, as well as all the nitty-gritty on our Fabulous 5th Year Anniversary Bash.
The transformation of a dining/living space from traditional to transitional and much, much more....

Also, coming soon, an exciting end of year sale!!! Details to follow!!!

Merci Mon Amis <3

A Sophisticated, Soft and Safari Inspired Nursery

2010-11-18T16:13:00.004-05:00

Design Plan for: Boy's Nursery
Client: Francis and Ken

(click to enlarge)

Francis and Ken a young, fun-loving couple expecting their first new bundle of joy - a little baby boy they've named "Frankie" - are in the process of leaving their life as renters and purchasing their very first town-home right on time before their special delivery comes home!:) They contacted me and asked that I design an elegant, fun and unique nursery for their little bundle of joy. They initially gave me pretty much free reign on the design choices as long as I kept it "boy-friendly." That was until they saw one of my recent Photography Art Galleries, from my Fine Art Photography Shop, entitled Wild. As soon as they laid their eyes on the pictures of the baby animals, they literally went "wild" (pun intended) with excitment and asked me to design a room around those prints, and of course I readily consented! This is the first nursery I have ever designed and I can honestly say with candor that I have never had this much fun on a client project! I put a lot of thought and emotion in picking every little detail to create the perfect safari-esque escape for this future little ranger:)

Wall Paint and Color Palette. Instead of a juvenile, or overly themey safari decor scheme, I wanted to design something fun but elegant and modern for this young couple. After drawing inspiration from the prints, I decided that a gray similar to the skin of the baby elephant would make the perfect wall color. To lighten and brighten this nursery, I chose a buttery yellow, reminiscent of the African Safari Sunset, for the ceiling. The gray and yellow along with various shades of brown, cream and a dash of sky blue was the color palette I chose to add a bit of baby-fresh softness and calm factor. The paint colors, Benjamin Moore's Gray Horse and Benjamin Moore's Popcorn Kernel in an eggshell finish will set the stage for this beautiful nursery.

Here is a breakdown of the Design Board for Safari Nursery with the numbered items below:

1 - 3. Represents the most important part of the nursery. The crib and bedding, where little junior will (hopefully) spend many restful nights doing what babies do best - sleeping. I chose this elegant, espresso brown crib with traditional lines and the ability to transform later on into a full-grown bed, the head-board can later be dismantled and added to a bed for an adult, definitely a great investment piece for this young family. As for the bedding, this subtle safari themed black and gray fitted crib sheet will work flawlessly with the design. For added softness and warmth I chose an organic crib matress along with organic cotton cream blankets and flannel throws to make sure baby Frankie is kept extra warm and cozy.

4. This sunny yellow dresser will not only add a stylish accent to the gray/yellow design scheme but will serve as the ideal functional piece to store many of Baby Frankie's clothing and diapers and supplies. It will also double as a changing table, as an added benefit the price was hard to beat.

5 - 7. Represents one of my favorite pieces of the room. This extremely cool and surprisingly comfortable rattan rocking chair not only brings in one of the popular textural materials used in African Safari design, but is modern and cozy enough to be utilized as the perfect nursing chair. To bring in added cozy factor, this yellow and white zebra print throw pillow, as well as this soft blue flannel blanket that will be draped over the chair will make for the perfect comfortable seating for both mommy and baby.

8. This adorable, stylish and functional zebra print lamp has me smitten. It not only brings in texture and works with the color scheme, but is the perfect smaller size for a nursery and will give a much needed glow for those nights where baby Frankie willl be read or sung to by his proud parents.

9. Are the prints that Francis and Ken chose from My Wild Gallery (which are available for purchase here) and the ones I built the design of the nursery around. Francis fell in love with the shots of the baby giraffe, elephant and zebra, and I made sure to include elements from all three into the rooms design scheme. These will be printed in 8x10 metallic finish and framed in espresso wood frames with simple white mats. The perfect artwork for this perfect litle safari nursery.

10. The rug that will anchor the room and all the furniture pieces that will be placed above it, while adding softness and style to boot. As soon as I laid eyes on this natural fiber rug in a giraffe print pattern, I knew it was the perfect piece to add to the nursery's gorgeous wood floors without taking away from their natural beauty. This rug is also elegant and versatile enough to later be used in future spaces and design schemes.

11. This black chandelier silhouette pendant lighting will be the ideal ceiling lighting for this baby boy's room. It is a fusion of traditional and modern due to the materials used and masculine enough to pass Ken's requirements for his son's room:)

12. Are the Window treatments I chose for the space. This organic cream cotton curtain panels will provide enough privacy to cover the gorgeous french-door/windows of the nursery. The couple will also be adding bamboo shades to ensure there is enough comfortable darkness for baby Frankie to sleep without interruption.

13. Finally, this most adorable and tender pale baby blue elephant made from organic materials, will be a perfect little play-mate for baby Frankie.

Here is Francis's Testimonial in her own words:

"When I saw your completed Design Scheme and read your consultation, I was literally left without words. All I could do was cry,cry tears of joy (not blaming the pregnancy hormones either:) Ken and I are blown away !!!!! This is exactly what we wanted and so, so much more! What an AMAZING nursery for our precious little Frankie. You have this most incredible of gifts to take one element like your beautiful prints, and create a masterpiece of a space. There aren't enough words to thank you except to say we are extremely grateful and can literally not wait to start putting all of the elements together.I have already ordered half of the items and sent Ken to buy the paint cans! Thank you a million times over!!!!!!!"

Here is one of the Before Pictures of what will become Frankie's Nursery, those windows and floors have me drooling....

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Application Here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

A Feminine and Functional Craft Room

2010-11-17T17:16:00.004-05:00

Design Plan for: Multi-Purpose Craft Room
Client: Joyce

(click to enlarge)

Joyce, a dynamic and incredibly talented work at home mom, was in dire need of a dedicated work room where her creativity could flow freely as she designed and created beautiful and unique vintage-inspired accessories for her craft business (link to her ETSY shop in side bar.) Her current work space was crowded and a bit cluttered and she needed a space that was light, feminine, airy and bright but that would simulataneously be functional to store all of her supplies, while doubling as a sewing room. She provided me with pictures of a space that was formerly a lovely nursery for her gorgeous baby girl, but would now be used for her special craft room. The paint colors Joyce originally chose were a nuetral cream on the walls, and a vintage cameo pink on the ceiling - the beautiful sparkly chandelier would also stay in the room and work flawlessly with the design I envisioned. Keeping in mind her need for function and fabulousity, I went to work to create a truly inspiring space.

Here is a breakdown of the Design Board for the Multi-Purpose Craft Room with the numbered items below:

1. Represents the gorgeous, classically styled (and functional to boot) shelf-unit I chose for her space. This gorgeous clear-glass shelf unit works to display all of her crafting supplies in a stylish and colorful manner. The clear glass will allow for display of her beautiful beads inside mason jars or storage wicker baskets displayed either inside or above this unit, as well as stacks of gorgeous fabric, yarn packages and ribbons. The possibilities are endless.

2. This beautifu white parsons desk is the perfect work area/counter space that Joyce needed to work on her projects. It is clean-lined and functional with enough space to store large wicker baskets underneath for extra storage and can work great as a photo-prop area with its white counter-top. I envision this desk working seamlessly with the shelf unit I selected above and recommend that this piece actually be placed flushed against the side of the shelf, that visually would appear as one large storage/work unit.

3. I love the idea of adding a bit of softness and crispness to every element of this room - including the seating. My floor plan for this room will include for the sewing machine to be distressed in a new finish and become the focal point of the room. As a result, covering the current chair in this soft and crisp white chair cover will transform the seating area and enhance the new look of the that furniture piece.

4. Represents the fabrics/textiles I have chosen for this space and the way we will bring in most of the color and texture for the color palette which is a combination of: Cream, White, Aqua and a Cameo Pink. To keep things on a budget for this hard-working mom, I decided to tap into her and her mother's sewing abilities to come up with gorgeous window treatments using the aqua damask. The other fabrics can be used to create art/inspiration panels (that will be explained in detail below) or as a way to personalize the shelf unit by adding the fabric to the back wall of each shelf. Combining these colors and textures will work to truly soften and brighten this room.

5-6. Represent the DIY inspiration panels that will serve not only as a functional wall piece which where to place pictures/fabric swatches or materials that inspire Joyce's accessory collections, but can also be used to display the newest creations. The best part is that these inspiration boards will double as art pieces on the wall. The concept is very simple and includes a bit of DIY magic. However, it only requires two cork boards, a bit of colorful and punchy fabric and a hot-glue gun. Voila/art that doubles as function. What's not to love?

7-8. Represents all of the functional and textural storage pieces to organize and store all of the seperate supply units.Joyce will be able to display her colorful beads using the mason jars and organize her spools of yarn using the wicker baskets. The use of the espresso colored ones will work to break up all of the light tones and combines with the espresso colored wood floors of her room.

9. Represents the gorgeous distressed finish I would like to see on Joyce's sewing desk. This furniture piece has the traditional and vintage esque lines that would look so lovely in this distressed aqua blue. I also love the idea of adding vintage type pulls to it, in either a metallic gold or silver to tie in the sparkly elements of the chandelier as well as the sparkle found in the fabric for the curtains. (Joyce and her hubby happen to be experts in distressing furniture so this project is perfect for them!)

10. Finally, along with the chandelier and the window lighting (during the day) Joyce will need added lighting in this room, especially at night. I loved the finish of this (looks-a-lot-more-pricey-than-it-cost) ceramic rose-colored lamp that I suggest be placed on the top of white Parsons' desk to bring in added lighting and a pop of great color.

Here is my suggested Floor Plan for this space:

Here is Joyce's Testimonial in her own words:

"You have left me speechless. You listened to everything that I told you that I liked. Colors, softness, theme. This design board is just perfect!! I am in big need of an office/craft space for my growing business, and you have created a room where I will love to work in. Being a work at home mom can sometimes be stressful, and repetitive...a difference to when you work out of the home and you get a change of scenery. This space will be just the perfect 'change of scenery' that I'll need. Your written consultation is SO DETAILED! I did not expect that. From where to buy everything, to how to make certain pieces. I couldn't have asked for anything more. You have nailed it! I can not wait to get started on the room!! I will definitely share pictures once it is complete!! Thank you!!"

Here are some of the Before Pictures (of what use't be her lovely nursery):

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Application Here or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

5th Year Anniversary Bash

2010-11-05T00:52:00.019-04:00

Pardon my mini-hiatus, the past two weeks I have been incredibly occupied planning and executing a very special event, our 5-year anniversary bash. A glamorous, fun, and elegant night celebrating Love. Our Love.

With the help of my amazing friends and family, I have been extremly busy making this happen:

All of the delicious details coming soon...

Wild By Ces't La Vie Events Photography

2010-10-19T23:38:00.001-04:00

This week's Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop's  Featured Gallery is posted in the slideshow below and is appropriately named - Wild.

"These unique and visually stimulating images were captured in the raw, untamed Sub Saharan lands of the Southern most part of Africa. These images depict the wild, precious and predatory nature of the animal kingdom in their most natural of settings. These prints would work in virtually any setting but make ideal artwork pieces for safari-themed rooms as well as work flawlessly framed against earth-toned walls. Also look stunning as the perfect conversation piece in an empty office wall, while making the ideal gift for any and all animal lovers! Simply click on the "Buy" button to select your professional grade prints that will conveniently be packaged and sent directly to your home ready to frame and hang!"

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Mettalic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6   @ only $2.15 - $2.55   per print
5x7   @ only $9.99 - $ 10.25 per print
8x10 @ only $15 - $18 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Stay tuned for next week's featured gallery and make sure to browse previous galleries by clicking on the links above to find the perfect print!

An Eclectic Escape.

2010-10-07T18:11:00.009-04:00

Design Plan for: 2-in-1 Dining/Living Room.
Client(s): Angie and Bob.

(click to enlarge)

Angie and Bob, an elegant and dynamic duo, found themselves needing to relocate from one city to another, and in the process were forced to move into a smaller living space. This move posed a challenge for them for many reasons. They now had to find a way to incorporate some of their gorgeous and traditional Family heirloom furniture pieces, along with a few of their more contemporary pieces, while keeping with their different tastes in Art and design aesthetics. They asked that I help them bridge the gap between their different decor tastes as well as fuse all of the distinct furniture styles into one cohesive and inviting space. The other requirement was that their living room also be used as a dining space. Angie provided me with a plethora of details and a vision to what she would like to see. After taking in all of these distinct elements, I went to work in creating a room I feel is inviting, visually appealing and functional.

Let’s Begin with the wall color, Angie explained that their living space had recently been professionally painted in a lovely linen-colored white and that the thought of having to re-paint over those walls, seemed quite daunting. Although I am a huge advocate for color on walls, I assured her we could inject color through other methods and make the space seem bright and airy. To add a touch of drama, color and unexpected whimsy my suggestion is to paint the ceiling a soft grayish-blue. It is a “barely-there”color that will make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of the space. By drawing the eye upwards, the room will automatically look larger and airier.

Here is a breakdown of the Design Board (for the living/dining space) with the numbered items below:

1-4. Represents the answer to converting a pair of 1980's peach colored sofa and chair set ( that Angie and Bob reluctantly inherited), into something more stylish and nuetral. These flax-colored micro-suede covers will work to cover the look and feel of the 'seen-better-days' furniture pieces. Also, I selected these gorgeous pale blue throw pillows with a special bird motif (for added whimsy) as well as this comfy and cozy burgundy colored throw that works as the ideal warm hue to contrast all the other cool colors of this seating area.

5. This graphic and bold rug is what I believe will not only tie all the different furniture colors and pieces together, but sets the stage for a truly eclectic and stylish home. Talk about a conversation-starter. This will also work to delineate and differentiate the living and dining areas of the space, I love how the contemporary rug ties in with the contemporary black Buffet and the black frames that will be surrounding the art-work.

6. Represents a simple, elegant and cost-efficient way to bring in color and style to old, dingy chairs. Angie owns a Queen Anne cherry-wood desk that converts into a dining table along with 4 traditional styled chairs that have also seen better days. By adding these gorgeous blue-gray chair covers, it will not only add a tremendous pop of color to the dining area, but will work to contrast the traditional table with contemporary chairs avoiding the matchy-matchy look and bring cohesion to this eclectic space.

7-8. Angie and Bob already own a black buffet/side table like the one pictured here, however, to really set this area off and work to visually enlarge their small space, this gorgeous scalloped mirror will look lovely placed on the wall over the buffet. To add ambiance and additional lighting, as well as pops of rich color, a pair of these Mica Table Lamps on either side of the mirror will make a lovely and functional vignette.

9. Angie and Bob asked that I incorporate two of their favorite art/photography pieces into their art-gallery foto wall. Angie's being a Van Gogh print and Bob's being a famous nature scene. To make both of these distinct art pieces work together, I chose matching black frames with white mats. The black and white also ties into the bold zebra rug as well as the black from the buffet table. I also made sure to take the burgundy and golden tones from the painting and incorporate it into decorative elements in the room - like the throw and the curtains. 10. Speaking of curtains, these golden-colored traditional style curtains spoke to me as the perfect window treatments for the one large window in that space. The color, drape and style of these curtains will add a touch of elegance and class while working to unify the and bring out the other golden tones in the room. 11. Finally, a nice colorful platter with a grouping of pillar candles will make the perfect romantic, aromatic and elegant centerpiece for their Queen Ann desk/dining table.

Here is Angie's Testimonial in her own words:

"I LOVE your design suggestions. You are GOOD! It pretty much approximates an updated version of my original living room of my beloved house that we sold 10 years ago! We have begun implemeting many of your suggestions, your influence is palpable already - cannot wait to show you the after pictures!"

Here are some of the Before Pictures:

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Questionnaire or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Time to Toast Talent

2010-09-30T23:16:00.005-04:00

Welcome to the first edition of "Time to Toast Talent." I will be dedicating a series of posts to honoring some of my incredibly talented fellow entrepreneurs who I also have the pleasure to call my personal friends ::insert toothy grin here::.

Let's start with my good friend Cindy who is gifted with the ability to transform a plain piece of card-stock into a gorgeous and elegant invitation. I call her the Paper Goddess:)

Case in point, my husband and I will soon be hosting an evening of dinner and dancing to honor our 5th year anniversary, we have planned an elegant and fun event. To set the tone for this joyous celebration, lovely Cindy offered to create our invitations and I very gratefully accepted her wonderful gesture.

To start with, I provided her with this inspiration picture. I wanted a similar color scheme and loved the elegant simplicity of the invite:

Cindy went to work creating her magic, and this is what she came up with. I believe a picture tells a much more eloquent story than I ever could, so let's let the following images do their job:

The gorgeous, incredibly detailed packaging and wrapping Cindy delivered the invites in, she made sure to deliver each component separately so to ensure that the invites remain flawless and would not be bent. She thought of every detail, even including extra glue and adhesives so that I could easily assemble and address the invitations.

*The names have been blurred out for privacy.

And here are the invites themselves…. I was absolutely floored at how beautiful they turned out!!!! The paper is of the highest quality as was the finish. The black cardstock she chose has an almost satin consistency and the fuschia swirl was the perfect accent, she also added a mini swirl to the RSVP card, perfection. Cindy was also wonderful at providing me with the exact wording on the invites and in the exact format that I asked for, I also asked if we could include a little bling to the invite in the form of two rhinestones and she readily heeded my wishes...

*The names and information has been blurred out for privacy.

Aren't they absolutely stunning!!!? This is talent definitely worth sharing! If any of you are in the market for fabulous invites and truly professional work, run, don't walk, to contact Cindy at invitationsbycindy@hotmail.com to make your invitation dreams a reality!!!!

Stay tuned for future posts dedicated to "Toasting Talent.".

Urban by Ces't La Vie Events Photography

2010-09-30T22:05:00.000-04:00

This week's Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop's  Featured Gallery is posted in the slideshow below and is appropriately named - Urban.

"These unique and visually stimulating images were captured in various World Cities and depict the architecture, raw ambiance and industrial beauty of the "Urban "Jungle. Any single of one of these prints would look ideal hung as art in an industrial, modern, minimalistic or eclectic type space. This gallery is specifically for those that appreciate an edgier, modern art style. Many of the architectual prints also make the perfect artwork for empty office spaces. Also perfect as a personalized gift for City Lovers! Simply click on the "Buy" button to select your professional grade prints that will conveniently be packaged and sent directly to your home ready to frame and hang!"

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Mettalic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6   @ only $2.15 - $2.55   per print
5x7   @ only $9.99 - $ 10.25 per print
8x10 @ only $15 - $18 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Stay tuned for next week's featured gallery and make sure to browse previous galleries by clicking on the links above to find the perfect print!

Antiquity by Ces't La Vie Events Photography

2010-09-16T15:10:00.000-04:00

This week's Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop's  Featured Gallery is posted in the slideshow below and is appropriately named - Antiquity.

These unique images were captured in distinct parts of the Globe and reflect the beauty, history, texture and rustic appeal of all that is worn, withered and aged with precious "Antiquity." Any single of one of these prints would look ideal hung on both neutral and colored walls, and easily tie into an old-world, cottage, shabby-chic, country or eclectic decor theme for both the home and office space. Also perfect as a personalized gift for vintage lovers! Simply click on the "Buy" button to select your professional grade prints that will conveniently be packaged and sent directly to your home ready to frame and hang!

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Mettalic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6   @ only $2.15 - $2.55   per print
5x7   @ only $9.99 - $ 10.25 per print
8x10 @ only $15 - $18 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Stay tuned for next week's featured gallery and make sure to browse previous galleries by clicking on the links above to find the perfect print!

An Apartment Transformation - Part One

2010-09-13T23:09:00.001-04:00

Design Plan for: 3-in-1 Living Space, Kitchen and Hallway
Client(s): Elisa and Greg

3-in-1 Living Space (Living Room. Dining and Play Area)

(click to enlarge)

Kitchen

Hallway

Elisa and Greg, a young, modern couple and the parents of a precious toddler were in need of a transformation in their home that would breathe a fresh new look, while keeping lots of function at bay for their family. Their apartment had so much potential, great bones and lots of charming character. After visiting at their home and consulting with them, I was able to draw inspiration from one of Elisa's decorative storage boxes she had stowed away in a corner. As soon as I laid my eyes on it, I knew the cool and soothing color scheme would work perfectly in their space. Their design needs also posed a bit of a challenge for me as they requested I turn their relatively small sized living room into a 3-in-1 living space, where I would need to incorporate a dining area, play area and living/TV area. The other two adjacent areas I would need to tackle were the kitchen and hallway. Although this project was a lot of hard work I thoroughly enjoyed meeting this nice family and made it a priority to design a space they would absolutely love!

Here is a breakdown of the Design Board (for the 3-in-1 living space) with the numbered items below:

First is first, the paint color I chose for all three of their rooms was a combination of Benjamin Moore's Beacon Gray and Silver Cloud. Beacon Gray is a fresh, crisp, modern pale blue with gray undertones that almost works as a neutral, it will totally freshen, brighten and enlarge all three of their living areas. Silver Cloud I chose as the paint that will be added to their ceiling and hallway, both colors work seamlessly together and will dramatically change the look of their currently olive and burgundy walls.

1-3. This gorgeous seating area will be one of the main focal points of the room and the first thing the visitor sees when they walk into this room. The centerpiece is of course this spectacular vintage-inspired Ikat print armless Slipper chair that brings in so much texture, color and class. Paired with this modern floor lamp and this classical styled oval mirror, this seating area will make for quite the eye-pleaser.

4. Represents the neutral, natural textured carpet that will delineate the living /TV viewing area from the rest of the space while providing added warmth and softness to their hard-wood floors.

5-8. Greg specifically requested we keep their futon/sleeper that had sentimental value as it was given to them by his parents and was still in very good shape. Unfortunately the existing pattern and color scheme would clash against the new design, however, I was able to locate the perfect solution - this twill and cotton khaki-colored slip cover that will neutralize the futon and make it the perfect comfy backdrop for colorful and stylish throw pillows like this ikat print that brings the pattern from the other side of the room. To finish off, this stunning chocolate colored tree art will complete this part of the room perfectly.

9-11 Represents the cool, hip and modern new dining space that will be composed of this great, versatile tulip table that is not only stylish but incredibly practical and inexpensive paired with these mid-century chrome and wood espresso chairs. However, what will truly help separate this area from the rest of the room will be this gorgeous, global-inspired capiz hanging pendant that will be hung above the tulip table. It is choc-full of visual interest and texture.

12-13. Are the simple, structured curtains I chose to frame the windows. The look, feel and drape are far more luxurious than the inexpensive price tag. Paired with this gorgeous glass knob curtain rod that will reflect the glass of the mirror the windows will be dressed to impress ;)

14-16. Is the designated "play area" I designed for Elisa and Greg's little princess. By purchasing this elegant wood corner shelf that not only provides great storage but stylish function, the will be able to disguise lots of her DVDs, books and toys. Paired with their existing wooden toy/chest that will double as an end table, this corner of the room will have two functions. To add just a tad bit of whimsy, color and fun factor - this gorgeous multi-colored ceramic tea set will be placed on the toy chest just waiting for their little princess to have many a tea parties.

17. Finally, the wall where Elisa and Greg will hang their new plasma TV (not pictured) will also house a few floating shelves with these stylish and very inexpensive espresso brown mirrors that will bring style and work to open up the room by reflecting the light from the opposite window.

As for the Kitchen and Hallway, Elisa asked that I incorporate a mix of country/cottage/ and contemporary feel to that space, as pictured in the design board above. (Note: The art-work I chose for this space is from my own Fine Art Photography Shop, from the newest collection labeled - Antiquity, more on that in a future post:)
The hallway I designed around their existing architectural features, amazing built-ins, that will be painted slightly darker from the rest of the wall (in the same beacon gray of the living room and kitchen) to highlight their great lines. They will also use this great empty wall space to create an eclectic art-display arrangement that will tie in all of their existing art-work while personalizing this area.

Here is the Floor Plan I created for their 3-in-1 living area:

Here is Elisa's Testimonial in her own words:

"It is absolutely BEAUTIFUL, GORGEOUS. Greg and I are soooooo incredibly excited and can't wait to get started! Thank you sooo much! Next up is the rest of the apartment!!!!"

Here are some of the Before Pictures:
(they had just returned from vacation, so please excuse the laundry.)

Want to transform your own space on a budget? Please fill out my Decor Questionnaire or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com.

Fresh By Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop

2010-08-24T21:22:00.002-04:00

This week's Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop's  Featured Gallery is posted in the slideshow below and is appropriately named - Fresh.

These beautiful images were captured in distinct parts of the Globe and depict the meaning of the word "Fresh", from my perspective. The unique organic qualities of the flora and food pictures are portrayed in a crisp, colorful and artistic manner. Any single of one of these prints would look ideal hung on both neutral and colored walls, and easily tie into any decor style or theme for both the home and office space. The food pictures look stunning in a kitchen or dining setting. Also perfect as a personalized gift for flower and food lovers alike! Simply click on the "Buy" button to select your professional grade prints that will conveniently be packaged and sent directly to your home ready to frame and hang!

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Mettalic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6   @ only $2.15 - $2.55   per print
5x7   @ only $9.99 - $ 10.25 per print
8x10 @ only $15 - $18 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Stay tuned for next week's featured gallery and make sure to browse previous galleries by clicking on the links above to find the perfect print!

Le "Parisian Dream" Inspired Wedding

2010-08-16T20:25:00.001-04:00

Please check out the newest submission to the Ces't La Vie Parties and Events page. (click on link to be re-directed to this page, or look for it under "Pages" in the sidebar) for details on this uber Romantic, French Chic and Ethereal Wedding Event Design!!!

(click to enlarge)

Need inspiration to throw that fabulous soiree? Don't know where to start with the planning of your important event? Want the look of a platinum party on a pauper's budget? You've come to the right place. Please fill out my What is your Design Style Questionnaire or email me @ cestlavie.events@gmail.com to begin!

Ces't La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop is here!

2010-08-10T21:36:00.009-04:00

I am very proud to announce the launching of the long awaited C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop !!!!

Our first Featured Gallery is posted in the slideshow below and is appropriately named - Oceania.

These beautiful images were captured by yours truly on beaches all over the world.  From the shores of the Atlantic in the Northeast of the United States to the coast of The Cape, in South Africa, to the baby blue waters of the Caribbean. These professional-grade images emit the beauty, power and color of the ocean, sun and sand. Each picture is one-of-a-kind and not mass-produced. Any single one of these prints would look ideal in a nautical or beach-themed home, cottage or place of business. Many of these also work for a Shabby-Chic or Vintage styled space.
Remember these prints also make the perfect personalized gift for beach lovers!!!!

Each week a new gallery in a different category will be featured with suggestions on how each gallery could be incorporated into different Decor Themes. All photos are printed by bayimages.com, used only by the Pros, and printed on the finest quality paper. Purchasing is made easy by simply browsing our on-line gallery, selecting the prints and clicking on the "Buy" button at the top right hand-side. All prints will be packaged and delivered directly to your home just waiting to be framed and hung. I will provide my suggestions on what style of frame, mat and hanging style to apply to each print, free of charge.

Each print is available in Lustre, Glossy, or Mettalic finish and available in the following sizes and prices:

4x6   @ only $2.15 per print
5x7   @ only $9.99 - $ 10.25 per print
8x10 @ only $15 - $18 per print

Other sizes and finishes available and can conveniently be browsed by clicking here: C'est La Vie Events Fine Art Photography Shop.

Please stay tuned for next week's featured gallery and please enjoy browsing through the new photography shop!