The polkadot pantry

Rainbow bright

2012-02-15T18:00:00.000+10:30

Remember this little cutie?

No, not the bloke. Don't give him a big head.

I'm talking about Zara!

Who can believe the little munchkin is now three years old? And to think her Mum and Dad's parties are getting bigger and better than ever!

First there was One Little Birdie . . .

Then there was Humpty Dumpty . . .

And now there is Rainbow!

Amy Atlas, look out!

Don't you love the Martha Stewart crepe paper clouds?! And the rainbow umbrellas Zara's Dad brought back from a work trip to China.

Good one Rodda.

Isn't it just divine!? Mindblowingly colourful and coordinated. The food was delish and so 'on brand'. It was so thoughtful and articulate and beautiful. Almost too good to eat.

Almost.

The MasterChef challenge was my fave - the kids all got dressed up in their aprons and chef hats and made mini pizzas for supper.

Great way to keep them busy . . . and keep the adults fed later in the day!

(Don't get me started on the G&Ts!)

And then there was the cake.

Have you ever seen such a perfect cake?!

This has taken the rainbow concept to a whole new level. That external layer was perfect!

Look at those defined layers!

Yep, the birthday girl was happy.

And so were her cousins.

Isn't that right, Boston?

And Emilia agrees.

So does little brother Max (and Pop) who got into the rainbow spirit.

Thanks for the face painting, Aunty Abby!

Well done Kelly and Mark, awesome effort especially since you've welcomed a newborn to the family in the last couple of months. I don't know how you do it!

Looking forward to Max's first birthday later this year . . .

Isn't she lovely?

2012-02-14T21:50:00.000+10:30

Majorly crushing on Adele at the moment.

Isn't she lovely?

Adored her sheer polkadot outfit for her performance at the Grammys, and then the solid black satin was classicly chic.

She's so refreshing as a recording artist - nice to see someone so down to earth despite all the fame and fortune.

Feel the love

2012-02-14T08:41:00.003+10:30

Happy Valentine's Day, lovelies!

I have blu-tacked some similar hearts to my black pointies today (thanks Em), but the pic I took just didn't do it justice (plus there's the small matter of my hairy, white legs that I chose not to share with bloggy world!)

Hope you're all spoilt rotten and feeling the love xo

Plant the Seed

2012-02-13T18:01:00.000+10:30

Oh how I love the Seed Femme Collection.

I just wish I could pull off that floaty, boho effortlessly chic look.

But alas, I end up looking pregnant which always leads to awkward questions . . .

Check out the Autumn/Winter 2012 range here.

Europe on a pearlstring

2012-02-12T15:10:00.000+10:30

Nearly seven years ago, I set off on a three month European adventure with one of my besties, Annabel.

Sure, we carried backpacks and we wore Birkenstocks, but we weren't your average cargo pant wearing, pot smoking, loud-mouthed, surfy type, dread-locked travellers that you quite often associate with Australians abroad.

Yep, that's me. Nearly eight years ago. Collar popped, pearl earrings, Oroton sunglasses, hot pink Polo.

And a big pint of beer. I digress . . .

Anyway, Annabel and I were avid readers of The Lonely Planet's Europe on a Shoestring but felt it sometimes lacked a 'pretty' approach to travel. We often joked we were going to rewrite the guide for the girls like us who enjoyed champagne and cheese and comfy beds in hostels (minus the cockroaches) albeit on a budget.

We were going to call it Europe on a Pearlstring. Clever, hey!?

Following out ah-mazing European adventures, I moved on to London and Bel came back to study so the dream slowly faded . . . but other girls have stepped up to the plate and filled this void in the travel market.

Enter the Travelettes!

Travelettes is a project which founder Katja Hentschel hopes will "inspire girls around the world to put on their lipstick and backpacks and JUST DO IT".

Backpacking in heels. Now we're talking!

The site is full of great tips for sassy travellers, from how to stay fresh on a flight, to what to do on New Year's Eve around the world, the best flea markets in Brooklyn and the most stylish bike rides in Britain!

Perfect for the modern girl who dreams of a champagne lifestyle on a beer budget. And who wears pearl studs . . . and Birkenstocks . . . at the same time.

Check it out here.

Do the happy hen dance

2012-02-11T16:00:00.000+10:30

Happy happy Hen's Day to the darling Flavs today.

We're celebrating with a garden party this afternoon and then some cheeky karaoke later tonight. Will be a hoot with girls arriving from all over the country to celebrate this special occasion.

Enjoy, my dear!

See full gallery of this fabulous hen's day here

Pics from Style Me Pretty

Pinch yourself moment

2012-02-11T08:28:00.003+10:30

We've all had them.

'Pinch yourself' moments when you stop and ask yourself 'surely this is too good to be true, am I dreaming?!'

Mine has just happened. The gorgeous Hunter from 'navy & orange' asked me to write a guest post for her fantabulous blog while she was away . . . and of course I said yes.

Her blog is glorious, I love it. A daily staple on my blog indulging.

So I put something together, it was petrifying. She has so many visitors and such a strong brand and blog presence, and her posts are so perfect . . . what was this little girl from Adelaide supposed to write?

Well, I did it. And it's gone live. And I'm pinching myself.

Pop over and say hi here.

You can have your cake . . .

2012-02-10T09:30:00.000+10:30

. . . and eat it too!

Love Eddie Ross's take on the styley rainbow cake that has captured the imagination of party planners worldwide.

Just WAIT until I show you pics of the most gorgeous rainbow party a friend of mine threw for her three year old last week. Re-live Kelly's little birdie and Humpty Dumpty efforts to whet your appetite for this latest party perfection.

The bigger the better

2012-02-09T20:21:00.000+10:30

I may be so behind the times, but I've just stumbled across the most fabulous range of oversized silk scarves.

Let me share.

Temps Des Reves is a label by Australian photographer Adrian Mesko who has turned his beautiful and personal photos into glorious works of silk art.

His scarves are divine, totally huge big pieces of beauty to adorn your head, hat, handbag or home.

Here's Myf Shepard showing how it's done in Vogue May 2011

And let's not forget his mens pocket squares . . .

Beautiful as a whole . . .

. . . or folded . . .

. . . and folded again.

Totes gorge.

And speaking of gorge, how cute is this Liberty tutorial on how to wear such a large scarf? Bless!

See pics from Mesko's December 2010 launch party here.

Pics from temps des reves website

Bean there

2012-02-09T11:47:00.003+10:30

Felt alive again this morning when I headed in for an early meeting in the city at our advertising agency. There's something about the buzz of town at 8.30am that lifts my spirits and puts a smile on my face.

I even wore heels for the occasion.

(Can you tell I'm not feeling the love for my suburban office location today!?)

Anyway, I was early for the meeting so toddled off (and I mean toddled, these heels are high!) down to Leigh Street to see for myself what all the fuss is about at this new coffee joint everyone's raving about.

The Coffee Branch.

Get there. Now.

The line up was almost out the door - the shop was filled with coolios, business types, artsy folk, tradies. Everyone who knows their coffee and appreciates a fine drop.

Great location - Leigh Street is really taking off with so many awesome restaurants on the pathed path - and the big windows and funky fitout make it an inviting space.

I loved it. Felt like I'd been transported to Melbourne or New York or some place uber cool. Yay for the Rads kicking it up a gear.

The owner Josh wanted to create "the atmostphere of a bar without the alcohol". And he's managed that - even at 8.30am in the morning. I was impressed.

So I ordered a chai soy latte (can you believe my first foray into the soy hood?) and perched on a stool with the latest issue of SA Life (nice pic Ms Brown) waiting for my name to be called.

I nearly fell off my chair when they called my name only to have a cute looking bloke come forward and hand deliver my order. Talk about service! Such a friendly crew, service was outstanding (and not to mention easy on the eye!)

Do yourself a favour and give the chain coffee shop cup a miss in favour of a delicately hand crafted cup of perfection, made with love.

Pics from here (a great local mag too!)

Dear Lill

2012-02-08T19:01:00.000+10:30

Dear Lill

Next time I'm in Melbourne, can we please go here.

Coin Laundry in Armadale.

It looks really cool.

And I love the guys' aprons.

And check out the housemade baked beans.

And smoked trout on rosti. Hello beetroot!

Lovely clean lines and great communal benches.

Love that exposed brick wall.

Looks like just the sort of place I'd love to open in the Rads.

Happy for you to do some research beforehand, the Melbournite that you are. Or ask Tom, he's the breakfast guru, yeah?

See you soon xo

Pics from here and here

The Colour Run

2012-02-07T17:06:00.000+10:30

I'm not a natural born athlete. Have you seen me run?!

In order to get the blood pumping and the beads of sweat dripping, I need to make exercise fun. I need an incentive.

And I think I've found one.

It goes a little like this . . .

Take a bunch of people in crisp white jogging gear

. . . and add some totally safe, natural dye

. . . and run 5km to end up like this!

May I introduce you to . . .

Brilliant, yes!?

Look at those colours!

Get me there now! Have you ever seen anyone look so happy while exercising?

I think not!

It's an American concept (like all wondrous viral campaigns from which I find so much inspiration) but I'd love to bring it to Australia.

We have the City to Surf and the City to Bay (of which I've run 6 of the 12km, yay for me!) and other charity runs, but nothing with so much . . . well . . . colour!

Check out the youtube clip below for further inspiration.

Now this is something I'd be happy to break a sweat for!

The Colour Run. I'm sold!

Chinese New Year

2012-02-06T13:44:00.000+10:30

There's nothing better than getting a big group of friends together and celebrating with great food and wine.

I organised another 'blind friendship date' last week in honour of Chinese New Year. A 'blind friendship date' refers to a night out with a random bunch of friends who don't know anyone else at the table except for me (self-indulgent a bit, no!?)

As my single friends drop like flies and those who are hitched start popping out the bubs, I find myself having to create new social opportunities and break into new friendship groups . . . or buy a cat (and I hate cats)

We went to T Chow in the Adelaide Central Markets to indulge my love of pomp and ceremony and authentic flavours and dug into their special CNY menu.

It was delish! And the Rockford Alicante Bouchet wasn't too bad either. Yum!

The drumming wasn't everyone's cup of tea but the fortune cookies that I'd left as a party favour at each place setting went down a treat. (Thanks for the inspiration, Billy Law of MasterChef Magazine!)

Keeping with the international celebrations this year, I think my next event might have to be Greek Easter! Who's in!?

Yeee-ha!

2012-02-05T17:59:00.000+10:30

I pinned this pic ages ago from a subtle revelry.

Love love love styled mag.

This pic was the inspiration for the Cowboy Baby Shower I'm throwing for Gemma in a couple of weeks. Random, hey!?

I love stacks of fluffy bite-sized pikelets and the feathers added a playful element that reminded me of a girl's take on Cowboys and Indians.

We're having a classy little champagne brunch at my folks place and I've been busy pinning my heart out to help get in the mood for the big day.

The props have been rolling in and it's slowly taking shape.

If only Miss Tina lived in the Rads so I could call on her expertise! Have you seen her work!? Totes gorge. She'd rock this gig.

Stay tuned for pics in a couple of weeks . . .

Clever cookie

2012-02-04T18:22:00.000+10:30

Looking for a cheap, inspiring and effortlessly chic decorating solution for your kitchen splashback?

Especially when you're not sure what you're going to do yet - be it tiles, stainless steel, granite etc but you can't stand looking at that hideous wallpaper/bare wall/mustard tiles a minute longer?

Look no further than concrete & honey for the best idea I've seen in ages!

The clever girl has lined her once ugly blue kitchen splashback with pages of beautiful magazines - using the easy-to-wipe mag covers down the bottom where splatters will land from the stove top.

Genius!

Imagine if you pasted all your favourite recipes up there - would make working out what to have for dinner SO much easier!

See here for her post.

Adelaide icon

2012-02-04T12:16:00.000+10:30

I ummed and ahhed over whether I should post this story, but Andy and Kristie's appreciation of the subject at large got me over the line.

Please look away now if you have a weak stomach.

Let me introduce you to the infamous 'AB'.

The AB is an Adelaide icon.

To put it simply, it's a layer of hot chips, covered in yiros meat then smothered in yiros sauce (garlic yoghurty type), tomato sauce and chilli sauce.

Despicable, I know.

But it's your best friend at 3am in the morning after a big day at the cricket or in North Adelaide!

Kristie has even admitted to getting one sober. She was in hospital with appendicitis last year and upon her release back into the real world, having not eaten for three days, her then fiance asked her what she felt like eating . . . and her first response was an AB.

Unbelievable.

So I was mortified to find myself sitting at an outside table on O'Connell Street, out the front of the 'Red and White' (as opposed to the 'Blue and White' cafe two shops down), digging into a plate of AB for two at 7pm on Friday night - it was still light! It's safe to say I was sober enough to know better, but Kristie and Andy are persuasive types and how could I call myself a proud South Aussie food enthusiast if I left our NSW visitors to tackle the plate on their own?

I won't get into the politics of explaining what AB stands for - it's controversial to say the least, but it's as much a part of drunken Adelaide culture as pie floaters, Vili's meat pies and Farmers Union Iced Coffees.

For a wonderfully descriptive explanation of the steps involved in devouring an AB, please read this piece. It hits the nail on the head!

I think I've had my quota for 2012 . . . until next year's cricket season!

Floating my boat

2012-02-03T15:09:00.000+10:30

With Matchbook mag hot off the e-press and so many new collections arriving in store (can you tell I've just been on my lunch break and just got paid!?), I've been seriously inspired to revamp my wardrobe.

Top of the list include . . .

J.Crew Maritime Dress

Oroton essentials bow ballet flats - in pink of course

On a side note - I did try on some ah-mazing leopard print Oroton ballet flats in DJs but I can't find them online ANYWHERE! Lusting for them like you wouldn't believe, so might have to head back tomorrow . . .

Marinoni pewterware at David Jones - I want this fruit bowl so badly

And they had the CUTEST cup and saucer that I've ever seen. Not Royal Albert cute (because we all know I love a floral and tonnes of pink), but more industrial, quirky, Tuscan cute

And this Lilly Pulitzer mettalic gold bow belt

Plus a set of Laguiole steak knives.

I know, I know, I'm behind the eight ball with these. They've been 'en vogue' for years and I've given so many as wedding and engagement gifts so think it's time I spoilt myself (because there sure aint a ring on this finger!)

And I just had to throw this in because I tried it last night for the first time and it was outofthisworld.

Maggie, you are my hero!

What's floating your boat at the moment?

Breakfast dessert

2012-02-02T20:02:00.000+10:30

I think I've shared my love of breakfast before.

It's probably my favourite meal of the day to go out for. Sweet or savoury? Your choice.

But Joy the Baker has opened my world to a whole new concept . . . where you can have your cake and eat it too. Why just choose sweet or savoury? Why not have both!?

Joy celebrates 'breakfast dessert' in this oh joy blog post. And it's revolutionary!

Having said that, I do have to admit how fond I've been of Urban Bistro's breakfast menu. They offer first and second course options to satisfy sweet and savoury cravings.

I'm currently planning a cowboy baby shower champagne brunch and am designing a breakfast canape menu so that we too can have the best of both worlds.

Little bites of savoury followed by decadent sweet treats. Heavenly!

Thank you Joy!

Strike a match

2012-02-02T11:12:00.001+10:30

Stop it!

I can't keep up - all this online reading is making me cross-eyed.

Jokes, I love it, live for it, breathe it.

Matchbook birthday edition out now

Enjoy, lovelies xo

Movie set magic

2012-02-01T19:54:00.000+10:30

I love movies and since moving into a place of my own, I've taken a new interest in looking beyond the actors to discover a very important player in the cast and crew.

The movie set is my new favourite star.

I saw 'The Change Up' the other night and found myself googling 'the change up movie set' after a wee while (once I'd composed myself after the first scene - hilarious potty humour!).

Jason Bateman's house was GORGEOUS and I found a great blog post by Cote de Texas in which the Texan author painstakingly broke down each scene to highlight the design wins of this movie set.

Below are a few of my faves . . .

Love the sea grass mat in the entrance foyer, and the single chair in the corner of the room.

You can't really see it in this pic, but that table in the left hand bottom corner is a gorgeous focal point as you walk in the front door and serves to separate the kitchen from the family room - love how it's open plan yet still distinct in its purpose.

The bathroom is breathtakingly big. And I love the bath in the bay-like window. Wooden floors too, gorgeous.

Beautiful chairs in the dining room. And as I get older, I'm starting to pine for a china cabinet.

Great serving platters too - love that someone would go to this much effort for a simple weeknight family dinner.

Love love love the yellow striped couch. And I'll say it again - I love a house that looks lived in.

That huge kitchen bench - awesome! And love the breakfast nook under the window.

And the star of the show - the bedroom. This is actually what had me googling the movie at first - I was desperate for that bed linen. It is GORGEOUS!

It's from John Robshaw Textiles and boy, was he flavour of the month after this movie was released! Not sure if you can still get it, but JRT featured heavily in a number of scenes.

For a wonderful description of each and every room in the house, visit Cote de Texas because her analysis is a lovely read.

A la mode's post is also great so check that out too.

Pics from Cote de Texas

J'adore

2012-02-01T16:59:00.000+10:30

There just aren't enough hours in the day!

Looks like I'll be busy tonight . . .

Can't wait to get my teeth into this story. I've always had a dream of opening my own little cafe one day . . .

And have found myself 'pinning' lots of Jen Ramos's work lately so look forward to finding out more about this artist . . .

And I can't WAIT to bake the loveheart cookies and download the teabag template for Valentine's Day. I may be single, but I still love the celebrations!

Adore Home Magazine. Get it now.

Blush is the new black

2012-01-31T20:32:00.001+10:30

Have I been sleeping under a rock?

Blair Waldorf is getting married?!

I nearly choked on my cuppa tea when I got my XO Vera Wang update today.

Looks like I've got some heavy duty couch time coming up with some Gossip Girl downloading a serious priority over the next week or so. How could I be so out of touch!?

Oh that's right, I moved out of Mum and Dad's and as a result, farewelled Foxtel!

Back to the main issue here . . . the frocks.

Love love LOVE the Vera Wang blush rose pink bridesmaid dresses. Gorgeous gorgeous colour. Tough competition for my all time favey champagne colour. Can't wait to see Serena in all those marshmallowy layers.

Congratulations on 100 episodes, Gossip Girl.

"Ex oh, ex oh"

Est is good

2012-01-31T16:46:00.000+10:30

Hmm, no surprises what I'll be getting up to tonight.

After Zumba, of course . . .

Est

Blog crush

2012-01-30T14:11:00.001+10:30

Classy Girls Wear Pearls.

Couldn't have said it better myself, Ms Vickers!

A bite of the little apple

2012-01-29T10:42:00.000+10:30

Safe travels to the gorgeous Bree and darling Miss Grace who are setting off for a year-long island adventure tonight.

Okay, probs sounds a bit more glamourous than it is but Bree's hubby has been shipped down to Hobart for a year as part of his orthopaedic surgery studies so Bree's been busy packing up their cute Melbourne digs for a Tasmanian exchange.

Can't wait to visit - I don't know the first thing about Hobart.

Any must see/dos, people!?

Puppy love

2012-01-27T16:30:00.000+10:30

Headed to Strathalbyn for work last week and jumped for joy when my boss suggested we check out the antique shops on the High Street.

Strath is known for its antiques and I was impressed by what it had to offer. It wasn't all high end pieces of ridiculously overpriced furniture, it had some really quirky affordable finds and I'll definitely be back there with a bigger car boot very soon!

Anyway, the point I'm getting to is that I've fallen in love with Staffordshire dogs. I'm not sure how it happened nor why, but I'm overcome with a love for the little creatures.

I think I have Anna Spiro to blame. She incorporates them into a modern vignette so effortlessly and with such fun.

And once you've got something in your mind, it's all you can think about. I searched high and low for a pair on High Street and found a few potential candidates. I think I'll have to take Jourdanne for a drive to help me adopt some puppies of my own. This seems like her sort of thing. Knowing my luck (and complete lack of design knowledge), I'll probably come home with a set of cats if I'm left on my own!

Pics here and here

Excellent export

2012-01-26T11:30:00.000+10:30

Happy Australia Day!

Who better to celebrate with than Hugh Jackman!?

Pears and Bears

2012-01-25T20:17:00.001+10:30

There's something about American fashion.

You guys just do 'classic' and 'preppy' and 'fun' so well!

Emma found this amazing designer for me and it was love at first sight.

Kayce Hughes | Pears and Bears

Am currently trying to work out how to ship internationally.

Heart doing somersaults over that geometric frill shirt dress.

It's the most wonderful time of the year . . .

2012-01-24T21:22:00.001+10:30

If only this photo was better.

Today was the first day of the Adelaide Test Match and my most favourite day of the year.

I love love love love the cricket - the Pimms tent, the sprawling lawns, the picket fence, the baggy green, the boys in loafers . . . I digress.

Unless you've experienced the back of the Members for yourself, you can't even start to imagine how much fun it is. As a friend's Dad once said in reference to her membership payment "it's the most expensive entry fee you'll ever pay to a pub".

But oh, it's worth it!

Today I went with my Dad and actually watched most of the afternoon session. As much as I love the fun and frivolity out the back, I do insist that I watch some live action out the front on the first day.

Australia Day on Thursday though . . . that's a whole other story!

Pimms anyone?!

Hermes-ing

2012-01-23T18:00:00.000+10:30

1. Shoe bags

2. Hmm, which to choose?!

3. Polka dot happy!

4. Hermes Managing Director Karin Upton Baker

5. Sandcastle

6. Say cheese!

Hermes is at it again.

Their third annual beach party was last Wednesday and photos are slowly leaking out from the who's who of Australia's A-List.

Features of the night include a 'shoecierge' who took your shoes and stored them in gorgeous little Hermes shoe bags; a giant 'H' swingset; and a mystical mirrored entrance which made for some fun pics (see April Rose Pengilly for her take on the mirrors)

Oh what I'd do for an invite!

Pics here: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Paula's pad

2012-01-21T21:46:00.000+10:30

Have you lovelies ever stumbled across pics of Paula Joye's pad?

I found her blog for the first time tonight (yes, home on a Saturday night - savour the moment!) and really loved her unpretentious, simple, "lived in" home.

The photo wall (shelves) and gorgeous blue couches are the stand outs for me. Also love her styling of the palm fronds - they're a cool British Raj vibe (is that right, Emma?!)

See the full gallery here.

Elements of Style

2012-01-20T13:36:00.000+10:30

For someone like me who aspires to be an effortlessly chic gal about town, this new Saba wheel has me excited.

Saba's Elements of Style is an easy way to break down the key components of your wardrobe.

Focus on key staples in each of the octagons and bam! You have a simple yet versatile wardrobe that can take you from day to night, casual to glam in a second.

Check out more here

Power to the pony

2012-01-19T10:07:00.000+10:30

Having worked in a top tier law firm, I am well aware of the woman who wants to be one of the men.

She wants to be seen as an equal, given the same opportunities and rewarded on her merits.

She even shakes hands like a bloke.

But in doing so, are we 'betraying our girlhood'?

Clementine Ford poses this question in a thought provoking article here.

I'm a girly girl, there's no doubt about it. Bows, pearls, ponytails, pink lippy and frills.

And I think it's fair to say my fellow bloggers are girly girls too.

But what's to say a girly girl can't kick goals in this big scary world of ours? Look at Quentin Bryce for example. She's the epitome of style and success. And she's a lady.

So let's embrace it, don't hide it, and be kind to our friends who feel the need to squash their penchant for pink.

They'll thank you when they discover the perfection of a ladylike cup of tea out of fine bone china (once they get over the rose print!).

Pic from Pinterest thanks to Daily Cup of Couture

move, eat, learn

2012-01-17T08:58:00.001+10:30

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

I've got the itch.

I need to travel.

Again.

Loving this new viral 60 sec film by a group of Aussies . . .

3 guys, 44 days, 11 countries, 18 flights, 38 thousand miles, an exploding volcano, 2 cameras and almost a terabyte of footage... all to turn 3 ambitious linear concepts based on movement, learning and food ....into 3 beautiful and hopefully compelling short films.....

= a trip of a lifetime.

move, eat, learn

PS. Did anyone else recognise the guy in the film as Chase from Rescue Special Ops? He's a bit gorge, hey!

Meat your maker

2012-01-13T21:31:00.000+10:30

The meat-eater in me is having a 'beat my chest' proud moment again.

Came across a fabulous article on the urban grocer that listed the top five butchers - sorry, 'meat boutiques' - in the world.

Yay for Victor Churchill in Sydney that was rated #1

"In case you hadn’t noticed, there’s a new rock star in the culinary world: the butcher. For years this trend has been on the rise as increasingly demanding foodies pass on the pre-boxed supermarket pork chops and look towards sustainable offal and locally-raised meats where they can indulge on everything from nose-to-tail."

When's the last time you actually went to the butcher for your meat rather than picking up a polystyrene tray wrapped in plastic from the supermarket?

It's actually a really rewarding experience - butchers are nice blokes! And they're so helpful. I don't know my shoulders from my fillets from my backstraps (sorry Dad - I've failed you as daughter of a meat wholesaler!) but ask the jolly old man over the counter and he'll be sure to point you in the right direction - complete with cooking instructions and ideas for great marinades or accompaniments.

Head to your local 'meat boutique' this Australia Day and like Sam, celebrate the tradition with Lamb . . . "it's fantastic!"

(Is it just me or are these Lamb ads getting more outrageous every year?! What will they think of next!?)

Some light relief

2012-01-12T18:30:00.000+10:30

If anyone else is like me, you're looking for some fresh, light food to help escape the oppressive heat and spring back from a far too indulgent festive season!

I made a scrummy salmon and couscous dinner the other night - but I have to confess I pan friend the salmon (in the lightest spray of olive oil) rather than steaming it (which I know is so much better for me) but I was craving the crunchy outside and soft middle of the lusciously pink fish, so frying it was.

As for the couscous, I made a fab salad for a BBQ with friends on Monday night and enjoyed the leftovers the next day. A simple but packed-with-flavour take on the versatile accompaniment.

Summer couscous

Serves 4-6

1 cup uncooked couscous

1 cup boiling water

handful of craisins (dried cranberries)

handful of pistacchios, chopped

zest of one orange

juice of one orange

1 tspn dijon mustard

1 tbspn olive oil

1 tbspn red wine vinegar

handful of coriander, chopped

salt and pepper to taste

Put the dry couscous in a bowl and pour the boiling water over the top. Cover with a tea towel and set aside. Leave for 5-10 minutes then fluff with a fork to make sure water is absorbed and grains can be separated.
While couscous is still warm, pour half of the orange juice over the couscous and mix through with fork.
Add coriander, pistacchios, craisins and orange zest to couscous and mix through.
To make the dressing, combine the olive oil, rest of the orange juice, red wine vinegar and dijon mustard in a separate bowl/jug and season to taste. Adjust amounts according to your own preferences.
Pour dressing over couscous salad just before serving and mix through. Serve with extra coriander springs on top.

Wicksteadly wonderful wedding

2012-01-11T09:39:00.000+10:30

Be still my beating heart.

Is this the most perfect wedding you've ever laid eyes on?

The fabulously gorgeous Daily Cup of Couture featured this spread from Vogue UK which celebrated London-based designer Emma Wickstead's Tuscan nuptials.

The champagne coloured bridesmaid dresses had me at hello.

And the pearl beading on her dress, which she later swapped for an elegantly simple Givenchy inspired number, was perfection.

And that skirt!

Instant new girl crush.

Emma, do you have a brother?!

See Daily Cup of Couture for the low-down and of course check out the full gallery at Vogue UK

Pics care of Vogue UK

life.style

2012-01-10T16:31:00.001+10:30

She's back . . . and as entertaining as ever!

Loving Kate's life.style blog on AdelaideNow

A bright, sunny and oh-hells-it-hit-forty-on-the-thermostat-so-quick-it-took-my-breath-away hallo to you all life.stylers! I hope your time away (if you were an escapee like me!) was stupendous, if a little sweaty. But it’s a new year now, and I’m back with a bit of a blog about good shiz that I have seen around the place, and where you can make like a truffle-hunting dog and, um, sniff them out.

Read the rest of her post here . . . she manages to make 'fripples' and 'strung hams' and 'phone cards' very entertaining!

Dear Kate

2012-01-09T09:02:00.000+10:30

The gorgeous Miss Kate turns 30 today.

Didn't she look elegant in her Alice Temperley gown on the red carpet last night at the premiere of Steven Spielberg's War Horse? I can't wait to see the movie, but fear it'll be another Marley & Me, Red Dog tearjerker.

Anyway, as my big 3-0 draws closer (17 months and counting), I thought this little article in The Telegraph was a lovely little reflection on what it means to enter your fourth decade.

"Dear Kate Middleton, the best is yet to come

As the Duchess of Cambridge turns 30, we ask 15 wise women for their advice to a girl embarking on that important fourth decade. (No pressure, then, Kate.)"

I love Jilly Cooper's flashback - only she who indulges in high society scandals in her fabulously decadent novels - could wish she'd 'gone to bed with half of London'!

Read the article here

. . . and then take a deep breath and realise everything will be okay.

Pic

If you can't handle the heat . . .

2012-01-08T18:30:00.000+10:30

There's something special about homemade pizzas in Summer by the pool.

I was over at Mum and Dad's last weekend during the heatwave in the Rads. They have a pool, airconditioning and Foxtel. What more can I say?

After a long afternoon watching movies in the air con and interchanging from the couch to the pool and back again, the clock ticked over to 5pm which signalled happy hour. Every week Mum and Dad's next door neighbour pops over for end/start of week drinks. His wife joined in the fun this week as well, so Mum and I sat out with them on the lawn and sweltered over a few ciders (Dirty Granny is our tipple of choice at the mo).

Noone felt like cooking so I offered to try and replicate the fabulous pizzas that Ad knocked up on Kangaroo Island. Light, easy and quick.

Check out Ad's recipe here.

They were easy as pie to whip up as I used pita bases. Ready in no time.

We had good intentions of sitting by the pool and dangling our feet while we feasted . . . but it was too hot to sit on the pavers so we stayed inside!

Oh the joys of an Australian Summer!

Birthday boy

2012-01-08T09:30:00.000+10:30

Sam, Mum and me admiring Granny's gorgeous Christmas tree in 1986

Sam and me with Dad. Gosh, he used to have a good head of hair!

Sam (in the yellow) with me and our cousins. I LOVED my outfit!

Happy birthday to my little brother, Sam!

You know you're old when you start saying things that begin with 'I remember when . . .' but I can't help it!

I remember when I was the 'big girl', the grown up, the more mature one . . .

And now here he is, 27 today and all growed up - complete with gorgeous wife, great job, big family home, three dogs, caravan and a perfect baby daughter.

And I have a hangover.

How times change!

Happy birthday Sambo xo

Ring a ding ding

2012-01-07T14:30:00.000+10:30

This is how I rang in the new year.

With cosmopolitans and guava champagne cocktails.

With bite sized canapes and exploding Lindt balls (hello 44 degree weather!)

And with fabulous friends . . . including two month old Harrison.

What a total sweetheart. Gush!

Hope you all celebrated in style!

Happy 2012 x

Triflelicious

2012-01-06T14:20:00.000+10:30

I've long been a fan of trifle, but so many of my friends cringe when I own up to this penchant.

They tell me it's so old school, stodgy and blah.

So thrilled to see that Mrs Lilien is putting the sexy back into trifle this Summer!

And a rhyming trifle with GLITTER? Well, now that's something special!

Desperate for a dazzlingly decadent dessert revival? Look no further than my sumptuous raspberry-glam trifle! Nothing screams nostalgic quite like this delicious showstopper; the ultimate grand finale after dinner chart topper! This trifle is a great alternative to something predictable and chocolaty; that, and the presentation is rather resplendent when executed properly. At your next formal dinner gathering you ought to place my trifle on the table, then proceed to watch your guests lick their glittering plates all gluttonously and grateful!

Mrs. Lilien's Raspberry-Glam Trifle

1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup seedless raspberry jam
4 cups raspberries
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup mascarpone
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/2 pounds pound cake
1/4 cup gold edible glitter

DIRECTIONS

In a small saucepan, bring 1/2-cup sugar, 1/4-cup water, and lemon juice to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar, 1 to 2 minutes. Let cool.
2.In a small bowl, combine jam with 3 cups raspberries, mashing slightly. In a large bowl, whip cream, mascarpone, vanilla and 2 tablespoons sugar to stiff peaks.
Slice pound cake 3/4 inch thick; brush both sides of slices with lemon syrup.
Fit 1/3 of slices snugly in the bottom of a 4-quart trifle dish or other glass bowl, trimming edges if necessary. Gently spread top of layer with 1/3 of raspberry mixture, and then 1/3 of whipped cream.
Repeat to make two more layers; garnish with remaining cup raspberries and sprinkle with gold edible glitter. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Found via the Glitter Guide

A day on the high seas

2012-01-05T17:30:00.000+10:30

What better way to sign off your Christmas holidays than with a gorgeous day on the high seas?

The fabulous Sally and Tim played Captain and Crew for Kimberlee and myself last week with a fun-filled afternoon on their boat, Salambao.

Oh, and don't forget Able Seadog Wally. Good boy.

We ate and drank ourselves silly with yummy sandwiches (yes of course, the classic chicken sandwich was on the menu, plus Christmas ham and wholegrain mustard, and smoked salmon with cucumber and cream cheese) as well as cheese and dips and wine spritzers and bellinis and zucchini burgers.

Best. Day. Of Summer.

Oh, and I wore my seasick bracelets. And felt fine. Yay for me!

Equestrian e-mazing

2012-01-05T08:54:00.002+10:30

I'm only 20 pages into the January issue of Matchbook and already in love.

Working in the thoroughbred racing industry, I immediately perk up when I see gorgeous equestrian features in mags, on telly and in advertising. Hermes is a master of this.

This editor's pick above in Matchbook mag takes the cake.

Gorgeous!

I'll have one of each thanks, yep, even the denim shirt!

Check out the Jan issue of Matchbook here - you'll probably beat me to the end!

Leftovers

2012-01-04T16:00:00.000+10:30

Best bit about Christmas?

Leftovers. I could eat them for breakfast, lunch and tea.

Actually, I do!

This year, we had gorgeous stuffed turkey rolls from the local butcher and three legs of ham (makes for THE best sandwiches!) and then maple carrots, steamed greens with tarragon mustard dressing, roast potatoes and sweet potatoes and a to-die-for tomato and onion bake. Seriously, the best EVER.

My Dad did the tomato and onion bake. Boy, he was proud!

Tomato bake
Olive oil, to grease
125g (13/4 cups) fresh breadcrumbs (made from day-old bread)
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1 tsp coarsely chopped fresh rosemary
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
3 medium (about 750g) ripe tomatoes, cut into 1cm-thick slices
2 small white onions, thinly sliced crossways
50g butter, cube

Method

Brush a 1.5L (6-cup) capacity oval ovenproof dish with oil to lightly grease.
Combine breadcrumbs, thyme and rosemary in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
Arrange one-third of the tomato slices over the base of prepared dish.
Top with one-third of onion and sprinkle with one-third of breadcrumb mixture.
Continue layering with remaining tomato, onion and breadcrumb mixture, finishing with a layer of breadcrumbs.
Top with cubes of butter. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Recipe from taste.com.au

There's been talk of a Jingle Bells in June this year, to get all the family together. Please let there be truckloads of leftovers again!

I'm counting down the days . .

Editor's note (5 January 2012): Mum was devastated I didn't mention her stuffing balls (smack bang in the middle of the plate) in my original post. How cold I forget!? They were something else, totally delish - the icing on the cake.

I think this was her recipe

Walk this way

2012-01-03T14:22:00.003+10:30

Started off the working year in a good way this morning with a 6.15am walk around the 'burbs.

Felt great afterwards, nice to beat the heat so early in the morning. The days have been scorching in the Rads (Adelaide) lately!

Had a bit of a giggle thinking about walking etiquette during my 'me time'. It's funny those who try to avoid eye contact, cross the road when you're approaching head on or appear so engrossed in their ipods. Then there's the folk who yell across the front yard as they're watering the lawn 'good morning!' or the ones who stop and let you pat their puppy and make small talk.

What type of walker are you?

I smile and say hello to everyone who makes eye contact. It's mostly women I bump into at that hour - nice motherly types. The blokes are the ones letting the team down - especially the runners, even the fat, amateur types. Maybe they're just out of breath.

Anyway, I'll be up and at 'em again tomorrow and will be sure to go out of my way to say hi to one and all - it's a lovely way to start the day!

How are your new year's resolutions going?

Ring it in . . .

2011-12-31T11:00:00.000+10:30

What do you think of a New Year's Eve wedding?

I'm normally against it - I've thought it quite self centred and arrogant in the past.

But this year, I've swayed and think it's a great idea.

What better way to ring in the new year than with your nearest and dearest . . . and all dressed up!

Love this image . . . black and white dance floor does it for me every time. And the oh-so-high ceilings. Gush!

Wherever you are and whoever you're with, make it a night to remember.

Happy New Year!

Here's to a bigger and better 2012 xo

Pinterest

Bag lady

2011-12-28T19:16:00.000+10:30

Greetings dear friends!

How was your Christmas and all that jazz?!

We had a lovely little celebration at my parents' place - not without its fair share of dramas - but the turkey was moist, Michael Buble was cranked loud and Dad stayed awake the whole day, so a success in my books!

Hit the shops for my first little shopping adventure today and while I'd love to stroll the streets looking oh-so-stylish like the glamazon above, I have to confess I arrived home with only two pairs of shoes and one pair of bra - a boring nude coloured t-shirt style at that.

How dull!

Hope you've all had some more luck and have found the perfect party dress for New Year's Eve . . . I'm still on the prowl (all that Christmas pudding has not made the search any easier - zips are somewhat harder to do up this side of the festive season!)

Happy holidays x

Pinterest

What time is it?

2011-12-23T12:17:00.001+10:30

Someone in the office just mentioned Pimms.

And now I have a sudden craving for the festive beverage in a tall glass filled with ice and lots of yummy garnish - especially cucumber.

Reminds me of Sunday afternoons at the pub in London.

And sun soaked days at the cricket.

Bottoms up!

By a neck

2011-12-22T11:54:00.001+10:30

I wouldn't mind one of these Lauren Elan necklaces for Christmas . . . or at any time of the year really!

Reminds me of the fabulous Elva Fields. Love.

Good crust

2011-12-21T19:00:00.000+10:30

Holidays are made for cooking. Well, in my books they are.

We took the opportunity to have a pizza night on KI - I even carried my trusty pizza maker over on the ferry with me in hand luggage!

Two toppings on offer - Turkish lamb and haloumi, and Tandoori chicken.

Lipsmackingly delicious.

Tandoori chicken pizza

Makes 1

Pizza base (either make your own like we did or use a prepared base - good recipe here)

Big handful sliced mushrooms

Tomato passata

Olive oil

1 chicken breast, sliced

tandoori paste

natural yoghurt

mango chutney

rocket

coriander

thinly sliced red onion

Marinate the chicken pieces in about half a jar of tandoori paste and then add a couple of spoonfuls of yoghurt and mix. Leave to rest, covered, in the fridge for about 30 mins.
Spread the pizza base with about 2 Tbspn tomato passata and a slug of olive oil
Sprinkle the mushrooms over the base and then top with red onion
Evenly distribute the marinated chicken over the other toppings.
Cook in a pizza oven or normal oven until chicken cooked and base crunchy
Top with coriander and rocket leaves
Serve with mango chutney and extra yoghurt

Rouge la la

2011-12-20T17:01:00.000+10:30

I don't believe it.

Boys don't like red lipstick!

Or so I'm told today.

I LOVE red lipstick. Well, I'm more of a pink gal myself, but there's something truly beautiful about a red pout.

I am known to bring out my MAC red on special occasions. Especially when a black and white outfit is on the cards. Derby Day anyone?

(Okay, so it's a bit faded here but it looked HOT on the day! Or did it?!)

Pink just wouldn't cut it on such an occasion.

And who can argue with Miranda Kerr - she totally rocks the rouge movement.

The reason for my sudden defense of red lipstick is a funny article I came across today by Kate Bowden.

I love her style of writing (I actually went to uni with her but had lost track of her in the seven or so years since, so it was nice to stumble across one of her stories!).

"Crickets". Gold!

. . . . Anyway, where was I? That's right, from Kate's story I was compelled to do my own little survey to find out if the red pout is, in fact, for 'slappers'.

Surely not!

What do you think, dear blog friends? Can the average girl next door carry off a polished red smile or can you only get away with it if you're super celebrity and super hot?!

To quote Kate:

"But, the point I am trying to make here, with about as much success as a blunt HB, is that there are many occasions on which the bird and the bee will disagree about what is looking good and what is, maybe, a little bit mingin’.

But the red lips? Nooooooo, surely the red lip is not being left out in the cold like Chris Brown post-car beating. Say it isn’t so."

Love it!

I've quite often discussed with friends how us girls can sometimes dress for girls, rather than guys - we care more about what other lassies think of our outfit than blokes on the street.

Does the same go for red lipstick. Is this why I'm still single!?

Read Kate's article here.

What do you think!?

Ditch the red and stick with my pink? Or bid farewell to all colour and embrace pawpaw ointment and clear balms like the fabulous Kate Middleton?! I mean, she did snag a Prince, after all . . .

Hype for hydrangeas

2011-12-19T13:15:00.000+10:30

A visit to Granny's is always special, but the big bunch of flowers I always go home with just tops it off.

Her hydrangeas are beyond beautiful at the moment.

I think they're a gorgeous choice for a wedding or long lunch table centrepiece . . .

Don't you agree?!

Pics from Pinterest

Ohhhhh-begine

2011-12-17T13:04:00.002+10:30

I love dips. Love 'em.

And I was thrilled when let in on a family secret recipe during my recent trip to Kangaroo Island. It's a Turkish recipe and is so easy I am never buying store bought dips again.

We shall call this 'eggplant dip'. Original, hey?

1. Take three eggplants and peel off the skin in stripes (we call it pyjamas)

2. Dice the eggplant into small cubes (less than 1cm cubed)

3. Put all the diced eggplant in a bowl and cover with water and a sprinkling of salt.

4. Leave to rest for 15 minutes

5. Drain the eggplant and heat about 1-2Tbs olive oil in a frying pan.

6. Stir fry the eggplant until reduced and a change in colour - it should be slightly mushy, but not have lost its shape too much. Takes about 10 mins

7. Crush three cloves of garlic into the eggplant and stir through in a separate bowl (one clove per eggplant - you can change the amounts to suit how much you need)

8. Leave the eggplant mix to cool and when cool, add a tub of natural yoghurt (add as much or as little as you like, depending on how chunky you like it. Think of it like a chunky eggplant tzatziki.

9. Enjoy with pita crisps as a dip, or use as a side dish for main courses. Great with Turkish pizza!

Go on, try it!

Thanks Aylin for the recipe - I hope I got it right!

Christmas pretty

2011-12-15T14:09:00.001+10:30

I'm back . . . but I'm busy.

(Isn't everyone?!)

Here's a Christmas pretty to enjoy thanks to Melissah at Scrapbook. She has collated some of the most beautiful Christmas snaps possible. Gorgeous and festive and oh so stylish.

And on the topic of Christmas, nothing grates me more than people who insist of calling it Xmas.

It's Christmas, people!

(Is it that obvious that I just got back from a horrid trip to the shops in my lunchbreak, and I'm a little bit stressed? Holiday shoppers do my head in - and don't get me started on the car parking! Just breathe . . . )

Take me away

2011-12-11T21:12:00.001+10:30

I am off for a few days to spent some quality time with one of my most favouritest people in the whole wide world.

Here's to some fun on Kangaroo Island - no doubt there'll be lots of laughs, lots of vino and far too much food.

This is how I'd like to look on the ferry on my way over to the Island, but alas, I fear I will have my head over the toilet bowl as I'm not much of a traveller.

All class, that's me.

Bon voyage!

Pinterest.

Talk Fringe

2011-12-09T13:42:00.001+10:30

The highly anticipated 2012 Adelaide Fringe program was launched today and I'm off to a little soiree to celebrate tonight.

Bubbles and bite sized canapes. My kind of shindig.

Happy weekend x

Best ever

2011-12-08T18:30:00.000+10:30

Best ever bread and butter pudding.

Jaffa croissant and chocolate pudding. Heavenly.

We mastered it again on the weekend. Hope you enjoyed the leftovers, JB!

Recipe here.

And jam and cream

2011-12-07T18:30:00.000+10:30

I love a road trip, especially when the desitination means catching up with a longtime friend who's pulled up stumps in the city for the country life.

Jourdanne moved out bush a couple of months ago so I packed up the car and headed north to spend the weekend with her and her boy on his farm.

Didn't see the poor bloke much as it's mid harvest and the busiest time of the year, but it meant us girls got to spend some quality time in the kitchen and Jourdanne could attempt her first batch of CWA certified scones.

So so easy and so so good . . .

Here's the recipe . . . word for word and with insructional pictures!

Mary Byrne's Traditional Scones

Claiming she's 'just a Bush Cook'

Ingredients

4 cups SR flour

pinch salt

300mL cream

300mL rain water (tap water is fine)

1 Tbspn icing sugar

1. Turn the oven on to 215C (not fan forced) or 200C fan forced

2. Dust work area with plain flour

3. Get a big bowl

4. Sift flour, salt and icing sugar into bowl

5. Add cream into bowl. Stir in with a spoon and mix til crumbly

6. Add water. Mix thoroughly with a knife

7. Should be damp but not too sticky!

8. Turn out onto dusted bench

9. Dust with plain flour over the top

10. FLUFF the dough on bench and then press it down. DO NOT USE A ROLLING PIN

11. Dough should be about an inch thick

12. Use a scone cutter

13. Spray a baking tray with oil and place approx 14-16 scones

14. Brush with milk and bake for 12-15 mins, until just browned on top

**Editor's note - don't you love the tennis racquet that is used to hold the oven door closed!? Love the country ingenuity!

15. Scones can be frozen in bags

Or just enjoyed lovely and warm and crunchy, fresh out of the oven! Best with Beerenberg jam (SA's finest!) - raspberry was our preference, and lashings of freshly whipped cream (like we needed more cream!)

So good, the perfect welcome to country life!

Night in

2011-12-06T16:30:00.000+10:30

Had the best night over at my friend Sarah's the other night. She cooked up a mean roast beef with some awesome salads and we talked all things wedding, work and weightloss!

Even Rufus got in on the fun!

Never Too Old

2011-12-05T18:00:00.000+10:30

One of the best bits about my job is that I get to explore country South Australia.

A recent workshop had me down on the Limestone Coast where we spent a lovely few nights in Penola - probably my favourite town in that part of the world.

Before we set off home, my boss and I ducked into this gem of a shop that we'd spotted from across the road the night before. It was jam packed full of unique finds so we risked being late for our next meeting to spend a wee while exploring its treasures.

Never Too Old is just gorgeous, one of those rare finds that takes you back to your childhood in a matter of seconds. We walked out with far too many purchases for our own good (I stuck to small treats like costume jewellery while my boss ticked off a few larger Christmas presents for her 18 month old) but we'll be back for sure.

Do you agree, the best antique/treasure hunting is in the country?

Hangin' around

2011-12-04T15:30:00.000+10:30

I know they say it's not rocket science, but I just can't master how to hang a gallery wall!

Check out Glitter Guide's tips and see if they can point you in the right direction.

I'm still trying! I think it's the frames that have me stuck. I have some beautiful pieces, but nothing to bring them to life and make them 'sing'.

And then there's the challenge of deciding which wall to tackle?!

Sunday roast

2011-12-03T20:49:00.000+10:30

I've been very quiet on the entertaining front lately. I don't know why, but my couch has been empty and my kitchen lacking in laughter.

Gemma and Ben were the perfect excuse to get me back on the horse and even though I (and poor Benny) was suffering from a hangover, I managed to whip up a Sunday roast for us all.

Made a spur of the moment decision at the butcher to go for a Spanish roast. It was good, not great, don't think I'll bother with it again. But it could be user error - I may love to cook, actually live to cook, but roasts and baking continue to stump me.

I teamed it with a roasted balsamic pear, fennel and red onion salad with baby spinach, and duck fat potatoes - another nemesis of mine. Lovely and fluffy inside, but they just don't get crispy!

Anyway, we had a lovely night sitting outside and feeding our hangovers with Pepsi Max. Gemma totally outdid herself with dessert when she produced a peanut butter ice cream cake with butterscotch sauce and popcorn brittle.

Sooooo good.

I think I've got the bug back. Will be looking for more houseguests next week. Apply within.

Arm candy

2011-12-02T17:30:00.000+10:30

Tried to master the art of arm candy at the polo on the weekend.

Shame I didn't try harder with the photography!

Woke up with them all still on Sunday morning. Classy.

Way out west

2011-12-01T09:30:00.000+10:30

When political heavyweights unite with fashion royalty, you're guaranteed the wedding of the year.

Lauren Bush, niece of George W Bush, and David Lauren, son of the one and only Ralph Lauren, said their 'I dos' a few weeks back on the Lauren family ranch in Colorado.

It was a classy affair flavoured by 'rustic elegance' with a rodeo part of the festivities. Sounds like a hoot!

The bride wore a dress, designed by the father of the groom (of course), of antique tulle hand-embroidered with Swarovski Elements, beads, and pearls.

David also wore his Dad's threads. Sweet.

Isn't that dancing pic with the Rockies in the background just stunning?

For the full run-down on the big day, read the Vogue story here.

All pics from Vogue

Take the quiz

2011-11-30T18:30:00.000+10:30

Have you ever wondered how to put a label on your design style?

I'm still searching for those perfect few descriptive words that encapsulate my individual style. Emma's helping me fine tune it.

In the meantime, I took the iscd quiz to see what they suggest . . .

Modular Living?

This was the first one that popped up after I completed the quiz. And it couldn't have got me more wrong.

Your space is quite minimalist.

Your living spaces are simple and unadorned.

Every space is rational and reduced to your fundamental needs.

There is no need for excess.

You have got to be kidding! Have you seen my bedroom!?

Nope, not happy with that one so I took the test again and tried to sway it.

Sleek New Earth.

You love the outdoors and bring them into your living environment.

You consider the technological side of your space.

You bring trends that complement your lifestyle into your home.

Hmm, not really an outdoors girl myself but I do love big bunches of fresh flowers, so is that what they could be referring to? Not too sure about the technological side. This is the girl who still buys CDs and doesn't have an iTunes account. Oh, and I also have a VHS player. Yep.

So let's try again.

High Street Classic

You collect key pieces over time.

Rich and luxurious objects appeal to you.

Your home is a temple to all you love.

Beloved memories fill your home.

You balance function with excess.

You enjoy the finer things in life.

Trends are integrated into your home.

Okay, now we're getting there. I still don't think it's me to a tee, but an improvement on the other two.

I think I need something with 'colour' and 'preppy' or 'pop' or maybe 'barefoot elegance'. Nope, still nothing.

To borrow from the gorgeous Anna Spiro, she describes her style as 'collected, colourful, layered, comfortable, interchangeable, interesting, unexpected.'

I like that. Something to work towards.

How would you describe your style? Go on, try and wrap it up in five words or less.

Take the quiz for yourself here and create your own Magazine Cover!

I hope you have more luck than me!

The polkadot pantry

Rainbow bright

Isn't she lovely?

Feel the love

Plant the Seed

Europe on a pearlstring

Do the happy hen dance

Pinch yourself moment

You can have your cake . . .

The bigger the better

Bean there

Dear Lill

The Colour Run

Chinese New Year

Yeee-ha!

Clever cookie

Adelaide icon

Floating my boat

Breakfast dessert

Strike a match

Movie set magic

J'adore

Blush is the new black

Est is good

Blog crush

A bite of the little apple

Puppy love

Excellent export

Pears and Bears

It's the most wonderful time of the year . . .

Hermes-ing

Paula's pad

Elements of Style

Power to the pony

move, eat, learn

Meat your maker

Some light relief

Wicksteadly wonderful wedding

life.style

Dear Kate

If you can't handle the heat . . .

Birthday boy

Ring a ding ding

Triflelicious

A day on the high seas

Equestrian e-mazing

Leftovers

Tomato bake

Method

Walk this way

Ring it in . . .

Bag lady

What time is it?

By a neck

Good crust

Rouge la la

Hype for hydrangeas

Ohhhhh-begine

Christmas pretty

Take me away

Talk Fringe

Best ever

And jam and cream

Night in

Never Too Old

Hangin' around

Sunday roast

Arm candy

Way out west

Take the quiz