Beautiful Birds and Tearful Goodbyes... I am back in Australia after my whirlwind tour of Europe.  I shed a tear saying goodbye to the gorgeous Parisian snowfall and was welcomed back, regretfully, by the 34-degree Australian heat. This week I am shedding another tear as we say goodbye to Dana.  Dana has been working with us at Blake & Taylor for more than 6 years.  We cannot imagine anyone doing a better job in keeping our office upstairs together and in shape.  She was our organizer extraordinaire! To celebrate Dana's time spent with us we all enjoyed a lovely afternoon [...]

Ralph Lauren and other Paris Highlights There are 3 things I am excited to share with you this week from my stay in this famous city; one - my lunch at Ralph Lauren, two – Treasure Hunting in Paris, and three – the most lovely and unexpected snowfall. Ralph Lauren is inspiring with a simple theme that you will find in many successful businesses – dedication to detail.  The building that houses this globally loved brand has been restored and maintained with the utmost care and perfection, just like everything that Ralph Lauren touches.  It is a must see when [...]

My Journey through Rome I am putting on my “travel-guide” hat this week if anyone is up for it.  I know most of you are keen subscribers for the fun design projects and the comings and goings of our Blake & Taylor retail shop.  However, I also have a feeling many of you are keen to travel.  If you are not out there experiencing the world already, perhaps I can sway you to consider the fabulous city of Rome.  This is a city full of delightful detail.  There is inspiration in every nook and every cranny; from window frames to [...]

Rome is Fascinating Ciao to you all from the fascinating city of Rome!  My love for nostalgia and history expressed through objects is in overdrive.  Everywhere I go I am delighted by another detail, façade or trinket that echoes its story of the past.  From stairwells to storefronts, this city has stories to tell. We are staying in a building that was built in the 17th Century, which still has the original frescos on some of the ceilings.  Can you imagine the human history they have been a part of; the stolen glances, the rousing altercations, the tired travelling families [...]

Soulful Vintage Jewellery with a Cause It is no wonder I am in love with the work of maker and friend Di Fitzpatrick.  She is a kindred spirit in her love and usage of soulful vintage items. Di Fitzpatrick has been making jewellery for my shop since late 2010.  Her bracelets dazzle, her earrings sparkle, and within each piece is a hidden story.  She adds vintage and antique buttons, crystals, glass or pearls to as many pieces as she can.  When you slide that bracelet on to your wrist you can not help but wonder where each element was found and [...]

Nothing says Christmas like the arrival of a brand new baby. Our beautiful Liz Jackson gave birth to her second son, William Taggart, a few weeks ago. Congrats to Liz, Greg and Fred on this exciting new chapter in all of their lives. We are all so excited for Liz who has made her own perfect little family here in Australia and is so happy.  We love you Liz. Our excitement at having this wonderful new addition to our Blake & Taylor team is contagious. These gorgeous pics speak for themselves. Welcome to the world Will! Feel free to leave [...]