Thursday, November 22, 2012

The colors of Fall


I know by now much of the country has lost fall's glowing colors, but in Texas, this is the color of November. The warm glow matches perfectly the color themes of the Thanksgiving holiday. Having always been one who loves summer, I usually enter fall dragging my feet a bit...but it is hard to deny the beauty of this time of year. 

I will be away from my family this year for Thanksgiving and I'm finding myself feeling a little melancholy about our family traditions I will be missing. I've been having thoughts about the conversations I will miss...the latest news on my niece and nephews. Also, my sweet Aunt's Liz's corn casserole and my Mom's cornbread dressing have crossed my mind.








The beautiful yellow hue of Ginkgo trees always reminds me of Gramercy Park in New York city


This photo collage is from our Thanksgiving holiday at my sister's ranch last year. Just a few shots to remind of what I'm thankful for and keep my heart close to those I love.

All Photography by Laura McGuire

Monday, August 27, 2012

Round Top antiques show

Round Top antiques show in Round Top, Texas was the most fun this spring. Fabulous antiques on the Texas prairie is my idea of good time. The location is about four hours from Dallas and it is the perfect girls' getaway. We set out with a small idea where it was located, and with limited understanding of the GPS systems on our phones, but we made it. It is all located on either side of the road on highway 237. Once you get there you just continue on 237 and discover more and more as you go. I would recommend giving yourself enough time to see it all. We had two days and wished for more.
The next Round Top show is October 2 and I'm dying to go again.



I love how there is a darling use of vintage out buildings for spaces and shops. It's hard to believe the town of Round Top can have a population of 90 when the antique show is not happening.

Spring in Texas is bluebonnet season and this year was lovely with the blooming state flower.

Some shops even decorate the outside of their spaces.

I love the neutral textures of the rolls of yardage


Stacks of european grain sacks.

Love this darling out house.




I loved this use of Ostrich feathers for an arrangement alternative.

The entrance to this tent is through this vintage lace draped teepee.

The event is full of vintage trailers.

For more information on the Round Top antiques show
http://www.roundtop-marburger.com/index.htm


We discovered a clothing line named Magnolia Pearl. The designer and her tribe of gypsy fairies are in their beautiful world of hay, burlap, linen and lace. I guess this has been around for awhile but it was all new to me and quite intoxicating. All her designs are made in Texas and hand dyed in the most subtle of colors, but it was the styling of the environment that inspired me the most. 

Stacks of linen and lace.


Beautiful hand created light fixture with lace over a vintage wire hoop skirt.


Robin Brown the creator of Magnolia Pearl with flowers in her hair.
For more information on Magnolia Pearl
http://www.magnoliapearl.com/

Rachel Ashwell loves Round Top so much she bought a ranch and turned it into a bed and breakfast named "The Prairie." We were excited to meet her and see in person how she has blended her English florals and California easy vibe into the southern landscape. It was all a lovely, feminine mix that we could not get enough of. We are longtime fans and our loyalty continues to grow. 

This is her new Shabby Chic shop she opened on the ranch.

Cute  porch swing on the front porch of the farmhouse shop.

Some of the lovely things in the shop.



The rusty vintage truck used for photo shoots.


The common area on the farm where meals and wine and cheese are served. Repurposed galvanized tin covers the space in recycled rustic charm.


"Pearl" the Prairie kitty.


Vintage prom dresses decorate the interior.




This beautiful tutu used as art makes you wonder what it's history has been.

Even the vintage mounted stag has a costume

Rachel's inspiration board is art in itself.

We arrived just in time for a little shopping and wine and cheese.

Some of the cottages on the ranch.


The barn under construction for wedding receptions.

Some of the Shabby Chic fabrics and vintage items on the clothes line.


Shabby Chic Texas flag pillow.

For more information visit, http://theprairiebyrachelashwell.com/

All photography by stylist Laura McGuire
www.lauramcguire.com