I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
”A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.”
This photo happened while focusing on this one, and I just can’t get over it. It’s like they’re an old married couple or something! I love capturing a moment that no one would believe 2 year olds are capable of. Only 20 weeks left in the year…wow. I’m proud of myself for keeping up with this project…I’m already enjoying looking back.
The countdown to Dîner En Blanc Philadelphia has begun…less than 3 weeks to go! If you’re planning to attend the magical affair, I hope you will enjoy this little bit of inspiration. There are so many details, rules and logistics, it can be overwhelming! First and foremost, be sure you are properly registered-you most likely already received a letter with an overview of guidelines + instructions. I won’t get into the nitty gritty of it all, but want to share some of the items that I’ve had my eye on. Also, I recently discovered the Dîner en Blanc documentary which takes an intimate look at the event in Paris, revealing the behind the scenes planning as well as the actual event! If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend a viewing…it reminded me just how magical the evening is, and got me even more excited for 2014. I hope to see you there!
1… fancy details can really set you apart…you’re sure to get noticed with a lace parasol!
2… while it doesn’t have to be white, I love this one from crate + barrel (shown), OR the picnic for two basket kit
3… a bit of sparkle never hurts, and can dress up a more casual outfit…statement brooch + sash buckle
4… many attendees wear hats, or fascinators…I love mixing it up each year!
5… a flowy white dress is my outfit of choice, but there are so many options for both men + women (too many to list).
6… be sure to capture the magic…we all have our phones, but consider film with this fun fujifilm instax camera!
7… should you choose to bring your own dinner (rather than catering), these weck jars will transport your food elegantly.
8… don’t forget your wine + champagne!
9… more importantly, don’t forget your wine glasses…because, well, drinking out of the bottle is not so classy.
10… first and foremost, go for comfortable shoes (i.e. low heels, wedges) so you can dance the night away!
11… there are many chairs to choose from…shown is the bistro chair by terrain…more options on the pinterest page!
12… porcelain dinner + salad plates by apilco are simple and classic.
13… beautiful hemstitched linen napkins look beautiful on any table.
14… these porcelain flowers make lovely napkin ties or table decor…you can see how I used them here!
items not shown (table, tablecloth, candles, flowers, etc.) can be found here
”A portrait of my children, once a week, every week, in 2014.”
So…this happened this week, and I’m so thankful to have captured it. They were playing in our closet, trying on shoes, and I sat down on the floor to join in their silliness. Marie asked me to take a few photos of her (she does that now, ha!) and Henry wandered over to join in. He started wrestling with her, giggles ensued, and then this kiss. A most passionate, innocent kiss…pure love on display. Witnessing their love is such a beautiful gift that I am grateful for every day.
Hello friends! I’m anxious to get back to featuring philly creatives on a regular basis, so in addition to the people I’ve already invited, I’d like to open it up for submissions! If you’re a creative, in any field, and living in the Philadelphia area, please get in touch so we can connect…I’d love to meet you (whether in person or via email)! I continue to be inspired by the talent here, and the supportive community surrounding it. I enjoy sharing stories of artists and entrepreneurs…they are always inspiring. For immediate inspiration, you can check out my archives + twitter list! Also, pay a visit to the awesome new project by husband and wife team Jen + Dave Cooper, South of Brooklyn. They’ve already featured some amazing creatives, including my friends Shauna Alterio + Stephen Loidolt! I guarantee you’ll be inspired.
merci…I look forward to hearing from you!
I’ve had my eye on Hello Shiso…hair accessories are one of my favorite things to buy for Marie. You can imagine my excitement when they offered to send us product to review…yes please! Based in Berkeley, CA, this small design studio creates accessories for girls, boys, and even parents (Marie better share these with me)! With so many cool modern designs, it was hard to choose a few, but these metallic leather clips really jumped out at me. The simple pinch clip design works well with so many hairstyles. I think they’re also awesome as a clothing or bag accessory, don’t you? I enjoyed planning the outfits for this shoot…click through to see more photos and more Shiso goodness!