HOMAGE TO A FLOWER
Would I have the knowledge of a flower
That of knowing just what color I should be
What shape to take and where and when to be these things
As well as that
How long to stay and when to change that form
To draw my petals close as darkness falls
And open myself to the suns seductive warmth
And then to know
Now is the time to shed that shape and color
My naked center breathing soft until another spring.
(Written by my mum)
Flowers, flowers. The world is unimaginable without flowers.
Such diversity of attitude........sometimes a little accent is all that is needed, and sometimes an abundance. Sometimes they are the co star, sometimes the star of the show.
While less is more is my mantra in decorating, sometimes I love an explosion of flowers.......
At The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell B & B, I had a couple of opportunities to layer flowers on top of flowers and then some.
When flowers are used in their faded form, there is a wonderful sense of faded beauty.
"You can't always get what you want" so said the Rolling Stones......
This does apply so often in life.......
I am so proud that in the world of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture, we do all we can to break that rule. We have recently introduced a Bespoke Bedding and Drapery program, which is designed in such a way that "you can get what you want" So nice to be able to say yes, in the world of so many NO's........
I have finally put the finishing touch touches on my latest book, Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Inspirations and Beautiful Spaces.... 12 plus extraordinary homes. Flowers of course played a big role throughout, so I suppose I could be forgiven for going over the top on my cover!!!!!
I went to the flower market in downtown Los Angeles...... I did my best to control my need to buy just one more bunch....
Couldn't decide on Peonies or Lilacs.....maybe both I thought.
But then in the end..................
View other beautiful floral inspirations at any of our three Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Couture Stores.
SOOOO BEAUTIFUL! THANK YOU FOR YOUR INSPIRATION!!
ReplyDeleteI needed a good slice of floral and ruffly goodness this morning.
ReplyDeleteJust perfect. Thank you.
Your new book is already on my Amazon Wish List! Can't wait :O)
x
What an inspiring post and thank-you for your mother's lovely poem.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy reading your blog so much!
Inspirational images of some very lovely flowers and fabrics. In particular I loved the "princess and the pea" stack of bespoke bedding... and the cover for the new book!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful cover and the bedding is to die for!
ReplyDeletexo,
Abby
So beautiful Rachel... one day, I hope to visit "The Prairie" and relax and daydream in one of your beautiful rooms... how soon is your new book coming out, and can I pre~order one?... xoxo Julie Marie
ReplyDeleteNever, ever enough flowers! Karmen
ReplyDeleteYou are looking for inspiration? But you are our inspiration! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThis post is simply inspirational! Such beautiful photos of plush down blankets.
ReplyDeleteI can not wait until the new book comes out!
Flowers do have a way of brightening up anything
ReplyDeleteI could just curl up in this post and sleep the day away!
ReplyDeleteSo beautiful
can't wait to see the book! :)
Amy
Your blog is so inspirational and I can't wait to get your new book. The cover is absolutely gorgeous!! Leahxx
ReplyDeleteI would like to post the photo of your new cover on my blog. I can't find it on flikr. Can I do it? I'd like to announce that it will be in general release in Oct. Right?
ReplyDeleteI look forward to reading your new book, Rachel. Lovely post :D I love anything floral. Your new bedding looks intriguing!
ReplyDeleteSo beautiful. So soft and feminine. So yummylicious. The lilacs were a perfect choice. Happy Safe Memorial Weekend...
ReplyDeleteLOVE this post! Your mum's poem is very beautiful. The book cover is perfect, and the bedding !!!!
ReplyDeleteThe problem of which duvet to choose can be solved by one of each! Thank you for being Rachel!!
Lisa xo
What a beautiful posting. I can breath when I view all the pretty flowers and fabrics. Thank you for sharing. Have a wonderful weekend. Look forward to seeing your new book. Valerie
ReplyDeleteYour post put a smile on my face. It was nice to see you smiling at the top of your blog! Actually, it made me smile. I LOVE the cover of your new book and what you've done with your B & B! Congratulations on all you've accomplished! Hope to see you down our way soon.
ReplyDeleteTake care, Sue
The cover is so beautiful! My summer bedding is from one of your Target lines. However, in Colorado, flannel sheets are still needed, so the summer bedding won't come out for a few more weeks. Thank you for all your lovely designs, you have inspired us more than you know.
ReplyDeleteoh wow! and yes, I want I want I want - all of those fabrics in my house!
ReplyDeleteAlso, the cover of your new book is beautiful!!! Can hardly wait to get it
Oh my goodness, the florals and fabrics are just breathtaking.
ReplyDeleteLinda
Oh Rachel what a great post ! I love the bed with all your different beding on it ! As I LOVE the Stones it's such a goog idea of choosing the beding you want !
ReplyDeleteAnd your book cover is simply gorgeous !
Everything is so beautiful and a feast for the eyes and soul!! Thank you for your inspiration...
ReplyDeleteHi Rachel, I love the bedding piled high on the bed! The colors blend perfectly together. The cover of your book is simply beautiful. Lilacs are my favorite blossom, the scent is heavenly. I only wish its blooming season were a bit longer. When exactly is the release of your upcoming book? I will definitely be ordering it. Your style has always been my inspiration and my husband has finally accepted that Shabby Chic can be cool! Marcia in California
ReplyDeleteJust LoVe the New Cover!*!*!
ReplyDeleteJeanine, ChiPPy!-SHaBBy!
Oh my goodness, what a beautiful new cover!! And pictures too. Gorgeous fabric and bedding. I love the flowers in old jam jars too - my new favorite thing. Can't wait for your new book!
ReplyDelete~Star
Star Hughes Living
Layers of simple elegance!
ReplyDeleteYou are always inspiring and I love your new book cover!
Those peonies are to die for! I love how the bedding brings each room to life! Gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! Peonies and lilacs...what a choice...
ReplyDeleteYour new cover is beautiful!;) I cant wait to purchase your new book~ Hugs, Rachel
ReplyDeleteGreat, Rachel! Love the cover and the other ideas! Thank you so much for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous cover! I am so excited. I have every book, and cannot get enough of your Shabby Chic world :)
ReplyDeleteOh I LOVE it, and especially the excess of Flowers! I love Peonies, they are some of my fav Flowers, but I do believe the Lilacs for this cover shot are just perfect and an outstanding choice. Now I can't wait for the release and to obtain my copy!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on another job well done...
Dawn... The Bohemian
love love LOVE this! and cannot wait for your new book to come out! :)
ReplyDeleteRachel, you look so happy on this cover- you have come full circle and from the looks of this cover, you have never altered your true-self. The cover- well, it's like no other- the lilacs, ohh the aroma around you must have been heaven, and that bench, wow, just stunning! I can't wait to order..
ReplyDeleteWarmest Blessings,
Jo-Anne Coletti
Oh My word Rachel this explosion is the big one! You never looked better really you look beautiful surrounded by what you love...I love your mums poem..I loved metting you at vero beach & know I will love & cherish this book like all your others. xo Laura
ReplyDeletedid I say explosion? I meant inspiration!!!! sorry I got so excited looking at the cover... xo bye again Laura
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! Beautiful! I can't wait for the new book! Lots of hugs! lulu
ReplyDeleteWow! That is one eye-catching cover! The flowers are spectacular. I can't wait to get a copy of your new book!
ReplyDeleteCara Rachel!
ReplyDeletevisitando o seu blog,fiquei encantada com toda a sua criatividade do seu trabalho com a decoração shabby, muito bonito! amo o shabby e o provençal. Parabéns pela suas inspirações!
Att: Dorath
http://jaitoutsimplement.blogspot.com/
Gosh love it all! Your blog never disapoints, so inspirational and absolutely love lilac!
ReplyDeleteThank you for being my inspiration, didn't know you had a prairie...I'm thinking I might have to take a drive :). The poem "Mother" is the best one of I've ever read. Sue
ReplyDeleteHola Rachel, the Prairie has turned out completely lovely!!! I have asked my husband to take me there and if he doesn´t I will come with some friends, for sure!!!
ReplyDeleteYou are a great inspiration!!!
hugs from Chile
You never seem to run out of beatiful ideas which are in turn great inspirations for us. My small town has an abandoned old high school building that is over 120 years old. Needless to say it's stately and gorgeous. I often fantasize about what I would do to it if I turned it into a B&B. The interiors and the grounds would be inspired by you of course. All the rooms would have grand crystal chandeliers and vintage furniture. Outside it would have a proper rose garden surrounded by pretty cottage flowers. Maybe one day! In the mean time thanks for the inspiration!!
ReplyDeleteLove ya'
Ray
beautiful inspirations...and that flower poem by your mum.....was breath takingly sweet.
ReplyDeleteciao bella
I'm your newest fan.
Creative Carmelina
Simply Gorgeous... Thank You for some ideas
ReplyDeleteLove it!!!
ReplyDeleteReally looking forward to your new book, Rachel! Also hoping to visit your new shoppe in London as I'm going to be In London and Cambridge for a little vacation this summer.
ReplyDeleteImpatiente que ce nouveau livre arrive chez nous , en France : je suis déjà subjuguée par ceux que j'ai découvert . Merci de nous enchanter !
ReplyDeleteWhen is your book coming out?
ReplyDeleteRachel: The cover is beautiful! Lilacs are my favorite. You are my idol! Can't wait for the book. Hope to visit the B&B soon.
ReplyDeleteI am following all the steps to win this beautifully composed book!
ReplyDeleteI love the poem about flowers written by your mother. What a treasure for you and so kind that you would allow it to be shared with us, Thank you!
Love your work!
deborah
{the white chair}
Wonderful!!!I love it!!)) привет из России))
ReplyDeleteyOUR bOOKs ARe mY BibleS, and COmbiNE Therapy, Inspiration and JOY in their FloRAlly GOodness...
ReplyDeleterachel
ReplyDeletejust went to the soho store in need of a beautiful new pillow - such a lovely experience! got the big european and soft cotton sham.....divine :-)
as seen in this picture here: http://teamgloria.com/2011/06/12/not-london-calling/
_teamgloria
...just lovely !
ReplyDeleteand I can hardly wait to curl up with your new book and a spare hour or two to prolong the joy.
Thank you Rachel !
Okay, that book cover is completely frameable! Drooling over the prospect of this book; can't WAIT!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI love you Rachel. You are my favorite designer. I look at images on your blog and learn to see shabby chic everywhere. I just came back from New Orleans, that place is a shabby chic heaven. Here is an example: http://brentreeves.com/natalia/2011/New%20Orleans/slides/IMG_2561.html
ReplyDeleteHow gorgeous! I'm loving the beddings! Enjoy the fabulous day, Kellie xx
ReplyDeleteI LOVE the new stuff!! OMG!! must have! must have! must have! =;o) hugs Bunny....P.S. yes ladies at the Soho store it is me, hope all of you are well! miss you too!
ReplyDeletecan't wait for the new book!
ReplyDeleteOh Rachel, everything you do makes my heart sing. Thanks for always being such a steady source of inspiration. I simply can't wait for your new book to come out, the cover alone is just a delight. And just so you know, visiting "The Prairie" is on this Ohio girls' bucket list. Someday, somehow, I will get there! XOXO
ReplyDeleteMi adorada Rachel..siempre me gustaron las cosas usadas y gastadas..pero mediante tu programa fue que descubri la pasion por el vintage y las rosa!!!...dejaron de transmitir tu programa y no sabes cuanto lo he lamentado...me encantaria que volvieran a pasar tu programa y que aca se vendieran cosas tuyas como los libros que has realizado y mucho mas...me alegro mucho por que al fin te llegara este mensaje de una admiradora tuya y de tu estilo de decoracion...un abrazo grande y cariñoso de una amiga que te admira!! desde Venezuela.
ReplyDeleteChao
Inspiring post! Your blog is so inspirational and I can't wait to get your new book.
ReplyDeleteHomeowner Insurance Rates
Boy, am I proud of you! Loved your mom's poem.
ReplyDeletexoxoxo
Sandy
I will take one of each, LOL!!
ReplyDeleteYour mom's poem is beautiful! I can only imagine what an inspiration she was to you and still is today. I hope and pray that I will be just as inspiring to my kids and now grandkids. We are only here for a short time, but the prints we leave behind remain forever in the hearts of those we love.
I'm planning to sell at Round Top this fall and hope to get a peek at your beautiful B&B!! What a dream!! Hope Texas is treating you well :))
LOVE FROM HOUSTON,
~~Michella~~
www.michellamarie.com
I am so looking forward to the new book and the cover is Simply Over the top Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteO.K I am lovin the layers and layers of bedding on the one bed.It makes me want it all and some more.
I so wish our Target stores in Oregon would carry all your Target line and they don't, not sure what's up with that.~Cheers Kim
When I click on your new post it doesn't pop up but message comes up saying it isn't available.
ReplyDeleteLovely! I'm in awe after seeing this!
ReplyDeleteHello Rachel! Congratulations on the opening of the Prairie and your new book cover! If you'll be in LA, I'm wondering if you're interested in attending the Renegade Craft Fair (www.renegadecraft.com) on July 16 and 17? I am traveling from Chicago to be a part of the SF and LA shows and I am so excited! If you're able to stop by the fair, my booth is called Nice and you can see my work at my blog. My Mom and I were very sad when the Chicago location closed a while back..but we are so excited for your new projects! My Mom has helped me prepare for the upcoming craft shows (it's a big deal for me, and a lot of work!) and I am hoping to find something special at Shabby Chic to bring back as a surprise. :) xo
ReplyDeletecongratulations for your blog is really interesting!!!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I would love to know if Laurence Amelie's paintings are available anywhere in the U.S.?
ReplyDeleteJust discovered your blog, and I soooo adore all of it!!! It's dripping with vintage, comfy, style!!!
ReplyDeleteHow stunning....Your room is gorgeous. I love your style...
ReplyDeleteRachel I love your style and the paintings by Amelie. Is there a chance that her work might be turned into a series of blank cards? I think they would make lovely than You cards or notes.
ReplyDelete