A Teddy Bear's Picnic... and a Historic Home

Bright and early last Sunday morning. I once again packed up the car and headed off to the historic Rippon Lea mansion for their annual Teddy Bear's Picnic. It was the second time I attended as a stall holder, and despite my initial hesitations about going, and the less then favourable weather forecast (32 degrees!), that morning I felt a sense of calm come over me. I had done my best to prepare for it, and no matter what challenges the day would throw at me, I was determined to make it a good day. And for the most part it was.

Sharing a stall with four other local designers - BabyButton, Fourzero, Piccaninny Rugs and LimeDaisy Design - we stocked our stall with a variety of goodies to please both boys and girls of all ages.

Our Combined stall. And, Yes, we remembered our teddies!!

One side of our stall showing delightful play rugs, balloon bags and cute softies by Piccaninny Rugs.

And the other side packed full of goodies by Fourzero, LimeDaisy Design, BabyButton and, of course yours truly, Minky Minx!

Of course, besides the many other market stalls on offer, there was plenty to keep the kids entertained, including rides and bear hugs, ice cream and parades...

   

But there were also things for the grown ups to enjoy too, such as visit the historic mansion. Thankfully this is something I too managed to do, and was most certainly the highlight of the day for me, especially as I had not done so for quite some time.

The historic Ripponlea mansion - built in 'polychromatic romanesque' style.

The grand entrance way with original marble pillars and stained glass window doors.

The living room - restyled in Hollywood glamour during the 30's.

Lovely period details - a stunning parquetry floor and gilded fireplace mirror. 

The dining room.

The grand staircase, with original Victorian wallpaper, over-painted in white in the 1930's. Can you imagine how it might have looked in the 1800's when it was embossed in gold?

The 'green' bathroom - in the 'jazzed up' style of the 1930's. Oh, did you spot Mr Ripponlea Bear??

The master 'best' bedroom overlooking the lawns. Note the original Oriental screen given to Frederick and Marian Sargood as a wedding gift in 1858.

The master bathroom, complete with 'modern' plumbing.

A rocking horse (which may have been ridden by the Sargood family children) and elaborate cast iron plant stand.

I'm not sure why, but it was only really until I explored the servants' quarters downstairs, that one of my favourite period dramas - Downton Abbey - came to mind. It felt as if, at any moment, Mr Carson or Mrs Patmore might come around a corner, and ask me what I was doing there. After being locked up for fifty years, it was wonderful to get a glimpse at the beating heart of the house, and see how it might have been 100 years ago.

The original Victorian kitchen.

The pantry and cool room.

Although used as a laundry in the 1930's (hence the sink under the window??), this was originally the servants' sitting room, where they could spend their 'time-off'. 

While the house has undergone much change in it's lifetime, and sadly only a few of the original furnishings remain, it is still wonderful that it remains today along with much of its extensive gardens, in much the same way as it's last occupant, Mrs Louisa Jones, left it. It therefore is a magnificent example of how such stately homes changed and adapted with time.

Now in the safe hands of the National Trust of Australia, this is a property well worth visiting for yourself. By doing so, you will not only get a glimpse at life now long gone, but also help preserve this unique house for others to enjoy.

~ ♥ ~

Congratulations too, to the winner of our fabulous 'Baby Hamper' - N. Brain!! We hope you enjoy your prize!

♥

Finding Balance

Balance. 

Isn't that a word we all struggle with at some point in our lives? In whatever area of life it might be in, I think it is for most of us. Finding the perfect work/life balance is getting increasingly hard, and that's even without having to deal with major problems! So I know I'm not at all alone in finding it hard to get the balance right...

As I mentioned in my last post, I recently decided to take a step back from my creative work for family reasons - and I've found that to be immensely beneficial. It's helped me to care for my family's needs without additional stress, while giving me time to reflect. Time I really did need!

Perhaps it was just withdrawal symptoms, but it was during this time that I realised how much I missed my 'creative outlet', my work. At the same time a big opportunity came my way. What to do?!

At first I felt guilty to even consider it. I had made my decision to take a break, and this would just complicate things again. But the more I thought about it and discussed it with my family, I realised that this was where finding the right balance and being reasonable was important. This opportunity was a once off, not a long term commitment. I basically had everything already ready to go, so I wasn't going to have to spend a lot of time preparing for it. And it might actually help, rather then hinder. Yes, I had been feeling down and finding it hard going. Could this be just what I needed to get back into the swing of things again?? Maybe...

The more I carefully considered it and discussed it with my family, I realised that, Yes! it just might be. And you know what??s Strangely enough it already has helped! Although I haven't really done anything for the event (which, mind you, is in a little more then a weeks time!) besides write this blog post, I already feel more energised and focused.

So the decision is made. We're off to Ripponlea's Teddy Bears Picnic again on the 24th of February!! And as it's likely to be a while before we do another market or event, we so hope you can join us there. If you'd like to come and say hello, please head over to their website for further details on the event and how get there.

See you there!! 

♥

P.S. Here's a helpful map to find us... We'll be at stall number 13 & 14. Oh, and don't forget your teddies!!

Introducing our New Treasure Collection...

So, you're heard for some time now that I was working on a new collection for Minky Minx, and over the past few months I've teased you with a few sneak peaks here and there... Well, it's about time that I officially  release it, hey...?? So here it is - my new 'Treasure Collection'... 

Full of pretty, vintage inspired treasures for weddings and other special occasions, this collection comprises of hair accessories and jewellery for little ladies of all ages - yes, babies to teens - and even a few things for Mum too!

Available soon in our Madeit store and at Kids Style Hub - and perhaps a few other places - here is a sample from this stunning new range...

Emma Satin Rosette & Lace Hair Clip with coordinating
Glass Pearl & Crystal Necklace & Earrings

Detail of Emma Satin Rosette Hair Clip and adjustable pearl crystal necklace

Carlotta Skinny Stretch Bow Headband

Tinkerbell Stretch Sparkle Flower Headband with coordinating Freshwater Pearl
& Crystal Necklace & Earrings

Sophie Satin Rosette & Lace Snap Clip

Dianna Gold Metal Headband

Audrey Feathered Satin Rose Hair Clip/Brooch worn as corsage and
coordinating crystal pearl bracelet

Cherie Feathered Organza Rose Fascinator with matching
Swarovski Crystal Pearl Earrings

Chanel Black & White Feathered Jewel Fascinator

Raquel Beaded Flower Choker/Headband with matching black crystal earrings

Raquel Pearl & Crystal Beaded Flower Headband/Choker worn as headpiece
with matching pearl earrings

Many thanks to my gorgeous nieces for being my models for this shoot and, of course, Four Elements Photography for taking these enchanting shots.

♥

What's your favourite?

I do love Spring

Yes, I absolutely adore Spring - and I'm not at all afraid to admit it!

I love the fresh green of new leaves, the trees covered with pretty blossoms, the sound of children's laughter as they finally come out to play, the warmth of the sunlight, and so, so much more - really what isn't there to love! Yes, it's definitely my favourite time of year - but not just for these reasons... For the past 6 years I have especially loved Spring because it's the month I married my Man - in fact this weekend we celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary!!

So, to celebrate this milestone and this beautiful month, here's a few of my favourite handmade 'Spring-time Wedding' finds. Enjoy!

Guest Book Fingerprint Tree by Idoityourself

Silk Flower Bridal Bouquet by Flowers by the Vase

Recycled Silver Rose Diamond Engagement Ring by De Lisa Rotta Fine Jewelry 

Floral Woodland Bridal Crown by DeLoop

Lace Bridesmaid Silk Clutches by Leela Purse 

Floral Hummingbird Bridal Shower Invite by Artisacreations

Blush Pink Knitted Bridal Shrug/Cardigan by Crochetbutterfly

Handcrafted Paper Bridal Bouquet by Marrymerosie

Rhinestone & Pearl Necklace/Choker by Stellarlight Jewellery

Spring Woodland Table Decor by Fairyfolk Weddings

♥

Chocolates & Truffleducks - An Enchanting Day Out with Miss Mienna

As many of you are already know, I've had the privilege of working with the lovely Lainie Brookman behind Miss Mienna for some time now, creating matching accessories for her adorable children's clothing range.

Recently, Lainie, while organising her first photo shoot, requested I make up some new deigns to go with her new collection. I, of course, said 'Yes'!

Now almost 2 months later its about time I share a few of the many beautiful shots that were taken on the day, thanks to the talented Louisa from Louisa Jones Photography, as well as give you a little sneak peek at some of the many gorgeous new accessories coming soon...

Enjoy!

We're all set to go!

A few light refreshments...

... and a cupcake or two.

How about a dance??

{Detail of 'Frangipani' Flower Clips}

Or strike a pose?

Let's just hold hands. 

{Detail of 'Carnival' clips}

Then we say good-bye. {Detail of 'Eiffel' Lace Button and  'Parisian Chic' Triple Bow Hair Clips}

{Detail of 'Parisian Chic' Triple Bow Hair Clip}

A moment later an enchanting flower girl appears, complete
with lace parasol & freshwater pearl bracelet.

And two more...

Why, even the littlest of flower girls wears a feathered hair piece... {Detail of 'Cherie' Ruffled Organza headpiece}

 "How do like like my bracelet?" One of them asks "I had it specially made for the occasion."

{Detail of Pearl & Crystal Bracelet.}

{And matching pearl earrings.}

Then there just enough time for a little rest...

.... before it's time to go home... THE END.

Photographed on location at Moorabool Valley Chocolates and Truffleduck Reception Centre. Party Decorations by Charli Mae. Flowers by Charlie & Co Flowers. And hair accessories and jewellery by Minky Minx, of course! 

Many thanks also to all our gorgeous models! 

♥