Hello Lovely

RA:
My life has always been my biggest inspiration.
From toddlers with sticky fingers, to empty nests.

Rachel's blog

1.

My latest life inspiration is
a B and B I recently bought,
refurbished and reopened under the name
The Prairie by Rachel Ashwell
just outside of Austin Texas.

46 acres of open space with six lovely

vintage structures, each having their own

character and giving me an opportunity

to express a different view of my aesthetic.

 Additionally, the nature of country living, 

many new designs for Rachel Ashwell

Shabby Chic Couture, from prints to products

inspired by the timelessness
of Praire living.

2.
Also inspired by my own need to
avoid anything mediocre
in my design world.

I am my own judge of perfectly imperfect,

and the only criteria of introducing a new product

into my stores, is if it is magical.

'Nothing' is so much better than blah.

3.

On a more parallel line of inspiration

I am very inspired by the world of
M a r i e  A n t o i n e t t e

from an aesthetic sense.

I am blending the palette, the decadence

and abundance of the fabrics and finishes and

layering into a more humble execution

(like our oppulent Petticoat bedding and
tablecloth collection--a direct inspiration for the

abundance of cascading frills--but
toned down with smokey colors and
somewhat rumpled fabrics).

Ahhhh.
So thankful Rachel shared with us so graciously.
Feeling beyond inspired by the way
she weaves meaning and depth
through so many chic projects and designs.
(And since I AM a stream of consciousness girl,
I will admit here and now the brain is swimming,
the heart racing with thoughts of petticoats and the prairie, CAKE,
vintage prom dresses, seeing the words 'couture' and 'saviour'
sandwiched, tutus leaping from canvas, and this idea:

let's make our dreams come true.

Are you in?
...

Peace to you right where you are.