Donna Hay's General Store

On a recent business trip to Sydney I was lucky enough to find myself with a few hours to spare on a sunny afternoon. So I jumped in a cab and headed off in search of Donna Hay's General Store. I found the quaint little corner shop in a quiet street in a leafy suburb of Sydney. My trip was well worth the effort as I armed myself with brown paper bags piled high with gift boxes full of cupcake cases, decorations, party things, yummy treats to eat and anything else that took my fancy. It was an expensive visit and it was very awkward getting all of my purchases on the plane but I had waited a long time to get there so I was determined to make it worth my while!

Images via Dona Hay website

Xox

Melissah

Where a Girl Goes

After reading up on Christina Re's new stationary shop and cafe I dropped in one afternoon. It's really out of the heart of things in Collingwood and would probably be more suited to Armadale but it's well worth the trip. It's a real delight with it's mix of retro glamour and sophisticated shabby chic styling decorated in pinks, greens, creams and blues. The paper section is heaven, particularly for any brides-to-be and there's lots of another pretty things to   tempt you. I sat at a big communal table with a cup of tea and one of those gorgeous cupcakes while I flicked through the latest imported fashion magazines. The attention to detail is fantastic so I hope it does well for her.

Images via 'Cristina Re' website

Xox

Melissah

Christina Re's Home

Following are some images of stationary designer and author Cristina Re Spanish-inspired villa.

Christina says, “I love to collect pretty and unique things from my travels, from places like Paris, Rome, LA and Shanghai. My house inspires my work, so it should be airy and bright, and have lots of light, which makes you happy. Each room is a complete contrast to the other rooms, yet somehow they complement each other. The dining room has a French feel, with greens and golds; the lounge room is oriental, with accents of red, pink and blue.”

Xox

Melissah

Donna Hay - Party Style

I am a big fan of Donna's Hay. She has had a huge influence on my life and has truly inspired me to achieve greater heights as a designer. Not only have I ended up as a better cook because of her but I have been inspired by her creative styling techniques and clever ideas. My step kids have ended up with some pretty amazing parties over the years thanks to Donna! 

Donna doing her thing

Her annual children's issue has been a great source of inspiration for endless fun parties over the years. I have had a lot of enjoyment pouring over these pages.

Here are a few images from parties I have put together over the last couple of years. As an interior designer I love attention to detail and of course everything as to co-ordinate perfectly! They have an old fashioned element to them with flowers, ribbons, cupcakes and bunting. Lollies and treats are piled into an array of tin buckets and glass jars. The designer cupcakes are from 'Let Them Eat Cake' and 'Babycakes by Design' in Melbourne - they are literally mini works of art!

A birthday party on the lawn

Fill glass jars with popcorn or lolles

Sticky Treats 

Cupcakes by 'Let Them Eat Cake'

Valentine's Day Cupcake by 'Babycakes by Design'

Musks sticks in a tin pail 

Designer shoe by "Let Them Eat Cake'

The detail

Custom Made Cupcakes

The table setting 

The party scene

Xox

Melissah

Images via Donna Hay website and my own photos

Donna Hay

My scrapbook would not be complete without paying tribute to Donna Hay who's monthly magazine never fail to inspire me. As a designer, I have great admiration for her artistic flair and creative talents. I believe that Donna Hay has been the leading figure in changing the concept of food styling into the simple, more streamline approach that is standard issue today.

Donna Hay

One of Donna's inspiring cookbooks

I have had many relaxing hours absorbed in her cooking books and magazines as well as many fun hours in the kitchen following her recipes. Donna's influence has brought life, colour and style to our table. 

Donna's monthly magazine

Inspiring Ideas

Beautiful Presentation

Great entertaining ideas

Ice-cream treats

A novel approach

I love these old fashioned straws

Xox

Melissah

Atlantic - Byron Bay

Another place on my list is Atlantic located in the heart of Byron Bay. It has a number of guest houses but what really appeals to me is the American Airstream trailer camped under a coconut palm in the backyard! Set amongst palm trees and a lush garden, Atlantic encourages the cool and casual lifestyle Byron Bay is famous for. The décor is inspired by boutique Caribbean guest houses and Byron Bay surf culture. High ceilings, chalk-white walls and the quiet garden create a unique atmosphere and refreshing holiday experience.

The Airstream Trailer

The Guesthouses - Caribbean Style

An entertaining deck

Relaxed, Beach Style

Caribbean Cool

Holiday Style

Xox

Melissah
Images via Atlantic