Gracefully Searching

New Site

2014-05-03T15:01:00.001-04:00

Come Find me at My New Website- It has been a Pleasure Getting to know you all over the past few years!!! xoxoxo

www.lauracollinsdesign.com

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

A Collected Home

2014-02-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

I love having art on my walls. The collection we have created throughout our home is filled with sentimental memories, personal art projects and imagery we are drawn to. I am always attracted to soft beachy scenes, bold art and vintage references. Here are a few tips about how to create an eclectic gallery wall, this is what was a winning combination for me!!

- Work with differently sized art pieces
- Mix in frames of all sizes
- Incorporate art using different textures
- Use colors that complement one another
- Most importantly you can't really go wrong if you choose what you love!

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

All in the Details

2014-02-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

Styling is one of my passions. I love taking everything off the shelves, reorganizing, and starting a new. Styling makes me feel lighter, refreshed and I love feeling surprised by new combinations throughout my home. It is amazing how by simply removing everything and starting from scratch can make you completely rethink and revitalize a space! Here are some detail shots from our bedroom makeover:

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Second Take

2014-02-03T14:19:00.001-05:00

Blayre and I finally got around to finishing our top floor! We splurged on a custom king sized bed, and let me tell you- we ain't eva going back to a queen!! It is so comfy, we can all snuggle comfortably now- no one (namely me) is hanging off the bed in the middle of the night. Needless to say, I can now get a goodnight sleep!!! If you have room in your space for a king- DO IT!

We also added reading lamps, I love them, they are adjustable, and perfect for a little reading before bed. I love how the bedside tables are cleared of the lamps that used to take up a lot of room, and we can use them now to stack all of our books!! So easy to install- and Ikea purchases to boot.

Bruce says "It's about time!"

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Hello

2014-01-20T19:36:00.003-05:00

I want to start the week off with a big hello, and a few words. Over the weekend I read this great post by Jennifer Flores in regards to where we are in the blogging community, and what the future might hold. I myself have not been blogging much less recently, I feel like I don't want to write/post just for the sake of it. I want to only post when I have photographed something I enjoyed doing(with quality pics), or post about a project I am really proud of. So much is recycled now, and I think it is really important to maintain your voice, and come up with authentic original content.

I find myself almost annoyed looking at Instagram sometimes, feeling jealous and almost disappointed by my own accomplishments..... HELLO- that is insane! As we all know, sometimes that token shot on your Insta feed might have taken 10 minutes to get the lighting just right, or minutes of prop styling.... I am just being honest, don't judge- we have all done it!! I love posting pretty things- that will not stop. However, what I don't want to do is become discouraged by something that is supposed to be a fun sharing platform. Does anyone else feel like this?

I also saw an incredible movie last night called About Time, and it has renewed my sense of appreciation in all of the little things, demonstrating how precious life's little moments are, and to remind myself not to sweat the small stuff. The most important thing to me is that my family has their health, and to tell the people I love how much they mean to me. Not who has bought a new pair of shoes at Kate Spade. I started a blog 4 years ago because I wanted to challenge myself to be original. A few months ago it really occurred to me how similar everything was becoming..... I mean I feel like every time I click on certain pages they are throwing confetti.... REALLY?? I LOVE a real woman like Jenny Komenda of LGN that is creating new original content on the daily. She literally blows my mind with her unique sense of style, fresh approach to what has become so competitive and clearly so unrealistic. That is also why I continue to return to sites like hers, I feel like it isn't a race to keep up with the Joneses, it is just a look into her creative journey as she documents and shares the process, without a hint of entitlement.

Lately it has been more important for me to have real- in person interactions and let that speak for itself. I feel like this whole world comes from behind a key pad/screen these days, and it can be so refreshing to hear someones voice react to something you are saying.... I am driven to have more "real" contact with people, enjoy my friends, and what the world has to offer. I want to get back to my roots more, pick up the phone more- Are you all with me??

Below are shots of life and what makes me happy. Picking up books, hanging out with my sister, eating great food I have put time and love into making, being with my family and boyfriend, and living in an environment that is a reflection of me and not other peoples imposed ideas of what life should be!!

I want to know what your thoughts are? Do you also feel like this about the way social media has taken over some forms of communication and daily life? I would love to hear from you!

Laura xo

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

French Toast: Caramelized Bananas

2014-01-14T14:53:00.000-05:00

The Bananas have completely fallen apart- but DAMN.... this was good!!! For the recipe check out this link.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Happy New Year

2014-01-01T13:20:00.000-05:00

2014 is going to be a good one- I can feel it!! xoxo

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Scenes from the Holidays

2013-12-31T15:07:00.001-05:00

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Desk Job

2013-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

I recently stumbled upon this desk at a friends place- near the dumpster.... Not in the dumpster (Don't worry it's all good- not dumpster diving)!! There was a mirrored drawer and a perfectly sized cubby to store my jewellery- it had classic lines, and lovely gams....I had to give this pretty little thing a second life!!!

My friend looked at it when we first came upon it, looked at me and said "No Honey." BUT I could see the potential! I am a huge fan of Jenna Lyons office in NYC, and l love a pop of color in a room. Since the rest of the room is fairly neutral, I thought this would be an unexpected addition. It is more of an Hermes Orange I would say, and paired with the lucite chair and sheepskin throw, and pretty hardware it fits right in!

Not only is it a perfect place to do my make up and store my baubles, it is also a great work station as I can close the mirror portion and have a great workspace as well as conceal my goodies! Inside the drawers I wanted to keep it playful and fun, so I added an adhesive laminate from my local hardware store, I just measured out the interior sizes and cut with an X-Acto on my cutting board for the cleanest line possible. Every time I open the drawer a really cute and kitschy print greets me- and all for $1.99/sheet!!

Hardware is Anthropologie- Here is a similar Knob

Before/ Elegant Orange Desk /Jenna Lyons Office/Benjamin Moore Paint/ Pursuit of Style

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Let Me, Entertain You

2013-12-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Last month I collaborated with one of my girlfriends on an spread about entertaining at home for Zardozi Magazine's Fall/Winter Issue. I love entertaining, so I threw a few things together before the crew came over for the shoot. I wanted to share with you some of my go to items when I have guests over, especially when you are in a crunch for time, and you are trying on stay on budget! I also included a shot from the photo spread- Please head over to Zardozi Magazine for more- it is such a fabulous issue, and not only for the sophisticated South Asian gal, but anyone interested in beautiful fashion spreads, cultural bits and other stunning imagery! Alisha thank you so much for including Elle & Be- you are oh-so-talented, and I am truly grateful to have been included in the magazine!!!

Zardozi Magazine's Fall/Winter Issue

Here are some of my last minute must haves:

- Phyllo dough- so each to pop in the oven and you can basically bake anything on it- otherwise head to your local bakery where you will always find a selection of fresh pastry or baguette

- Grapes- they look pretty and add a fullness to any spread

-A variety of different cheeses- Brie, cheddar, goat cheese, havarti, or mix together creme fraiche with cream cheese and chives for a fabulous dip

- Champagne- if you really want to amp things up + OJ

- A nice variety of teas

- Berries, frozen(for drinks) and fresh- strawberries, raspberries

- apple- serve with caramel- buy already made

- pear, plum, kiwi, and any other fruit that is easy to serve

- honey to serve with cheese

- Nuts- Almonds, walnuts, pistachios

- Use your pretties serve ware, and for a little something extra buy some cute napkins from your local party store, Ikea, or Canadians- Loblaws and Superstore always have a great variety!

- Lastly fresh flowers- If you are looking for something inexpensive buy any seasonal flower and stay in a monochromatic scheme. Otherwise just go nuts!!

Zardozi Magazine Fall/Winter Issue

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Hand-y

2013-12-18T07:30:00.000-05:00

I am always on the hunt for unique new pieces. I love going to the market and scouring the shelves for treasures. I never quite know what I am looking for, but there are definitely things on my radar that pop out at me. I came upon this lovely retro ring holder the other day and knew it would be the perfect addition to our living room shelf. It now lives on a stack of pretty books. Love.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Traditions

2013-12-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

I LOVE Christmas, it is a time of year that you can relive moments from childhood, enjoy decadent foods without any limitations, listen to music about reindeers, sugarplums, and snowmen all day long, and if you wish wear your pj's all day long- and there is no judgement- in fact I think it is encouraged!

Every year I try and recreate treasured moments from different points in my life to evoke that feeling of excitement and magic that I felt when I was growing up. As Blayre and I have now been living together for several years, we are now creating traditions, and memories of our own, so it is fun to add to that list each year, and look back on years past!

In the spirit of the 12 days of Christmas, here are my favorite holiday traditions and memories!!

1. When I was a little girl, I loved baking with my grandmothers. My Nanny, my mother's mother, is a fantastic baker, she would make gingerbread, and these other sugar cookies that I adored with a little bit of icing and a maraschino cherry on top- every year I look forward to them.

2. Going to see a festive musical. Each year when I was growing up the girls would all go to see the Nutcracker Ballet, when I moved to Calgary we began to see the Christmas Carol each year, we continue the tradition, and have even gone to see it in London, England one year when we spent time there as a family. It is a wonderful opportunity to get all dressed up, and spend time with the family.

3. My Grandpa's birthday was on December 24th, he was so special to my sister and I both. My Nanny makes the most incredible seafood chowder, it has the most unique rich taste, each year we would have a special dinner- Grandpa and the head of the table, and eat the beautiful meal she had prepared. Then we would open Christmas crackers, put our crowns on and read our silly jokes, and he would open his gifts. Every year I miss him, and I can imagine him sitting there, when I see his favorite chocolates at the store at this time of year, I feel like picking them up for him! The 24th is always a very special day.

4. Decorating the tree is so much fun! Now that Blayre and I have began our own traditions, we head over to the market, pics out a little tree and decorate while listening to music, or a movie- this year we watched Elf, and it is usually accompanied by eggnog! When I was growing up, my parents would go pick one up, then we would all anxiously await as the tree defrosted! Then we would entangle all of the tree lights from the previous year, and finally to the tune of Simon and Garfunkel or good ole' Bing Crosby, we would decorate the tree as a family! I love seeing ornaments from my childhood, as well as some from my parents too, it is such a wonderful tradition that I hope to pass on to my own children one day my adding a new unique piece to the tree each year.

5. Movies! I watch a crazy amount of Christmas movies every year... But then again who doesn't!! Here is my list: The Grinch(animated), Home Alone 1/2, The Santa Claus, The Sound of Music, Rudolph, Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, The Holiday, Love Actually, and a few Christmas Specials of course!!!

6. On Christmas eve, my sister and I were allowed to open one present each. However we weren't actually allowed to pick which one we could open, and strangely enough it would always happen to be pyjamas- coincidence or conspiracy???

7. Each holiday season, the Calgary zoo hosts Zoo Lights. The grounds are decorated with Christmas lights and you and your loved ones can wander around and take in the magical sights. It is incredibly cold, and I never end up dressing appropriately of course, thankfully there are fire pits throughout as well as hot cocoa!

8. Christmas morning is always so much fun! Unlike the madness of past years, we now sit around with our teas and mimosas and hand out the presents methodically and get to enjoy what other family members are getting!! My step dad is usually snapping shots of this action- I look super glam- no make up and if I am super lucky- unshowered if lucky.

9. Brunch- I love brunch on Christmas morning! While we are wrapping up with the Christmas gifts my mom and Peter are starting up with Christmas brunch- it is such a wonderful feast, followed by a day of lazing around and looking through all of the goodies!

10. Stockings are so awesome as just when you think the gifts are no more- the stockings materialize!! We usually get lotto tickets, and scratch cards- no luck yet!! ;)

11. Karaoke has become a more recent tradition. We rent a machine and everyone takes a turn performing. My favorite songs are classic broadway hits- The name on every bodies lips is going to be... Roxie(Chicago)

12. Tobogganing, skating, and snowman making - not an overwhelming amount of these activities has been happening in the past few years- but I can't wait to relive these with my future kiddos!!!!!!

What are your favorite holiday traditions?

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

It's That Time of Year Again

2013-12-16T16:47:00.001-05:00

Can you believe we are 9 days away from Christmas?

December has been flying by, and before we know it, we will be in the new year!!! Blayre and I are heading to Calgary for the holidays, so I didn't want to go too Christmas cuckoo. We found a cute little tree down at the St. Lawrence Market- his name is Christo-Fur.... Get it??? Haha, Oh, how I love a good play on words! We decorated it simply, and then I added a few other little trinkets around the house. It does the trick, every time I come downstairs I am greeted by a good dose of holiday cheer, it feels so warm and cosy- although, how lovely would it be to have a fireplace- Nothing says holidays like a crackling fire!

Here are some sweet pics of my love Bruce and Christo-fur... Now I might just be a proud mama, but I mean look how handsome he is in his little Santa ensemble- there is also a hat!!

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Around the House + Life

2013-12-06T16:03:00.001-05:00

New Gin & Tonic Print- by Archivist Print

Water Colors by Me- Getting ready to launch my E-Shop in the new year

Newly painted desk with fab flower laminate insert

My Love. Bruce.

Refinished Chairs- Ready to be sold

Settling on a new sofa with one of my besties Carmelo at Ikea.

Awesome new print By Kid Icarus that I purchased at the One of A Kind Show.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

The One of a Kind Show

2013-11-29T18:59:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I went to the One of a Kind Show. It is my third year going, and I can say it is by far the best year yet! Before I did a power walk through the show, I had a very yummy breakfast along with some blog friends courtesy of the delicious new eatery Woods Restaurant. I wanted to share with you all some of my favourite finds. There were some really great vendors there, these are the ones that really stood out to me. I recommend going for a few hours- the show is on till December 8th, a perfect way to spend an afternoon while enjoying some treats while you are perusing all of the goodies!!!

Follow me on Instagram for more updates!!!

Have a great weekend!

rover

lucie weir- lunacy glass

moon rox

grace eunmi lee

avril loreti

patrick lajoie photography

water in my paint

atelier make

heyday design

kid icarus

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Art Haus

2013-11-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

Rythmic Succesion 8/ Bowls/ Watermelon/ Pink Cafe/ Russian Architecture/ Elephant and Canary

Los Angeles / The World Is your Oyster/ Darling Print/ / Apple/ Ampersand/ Sunglasses

Classic/ Bonjour/ C'est La Vie/ Creme De La Creme

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Around the House

2013-11-26T17:37:00.001-05:00

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Bruce & One Kings Lane

2013-11-11T17:49:00.002-05:00

Today Bruce turns 3. Birthdays are always crazy because they represent all of the milestones and events that have happened in life. Since Bruce came into our world, Toronto has been our home, Elle and Be has really flourished, and we have become even more of a family then we were before. Bruce has so many precious qualities that I see in Blayre and myself. It has been a real privilege getting to know his personality. Much like a person, he tells us when he loves us, his excitement is contagious, he lets us know when he wants to have time to himself, and he never hesitates to let us know when he would like a sampling of our food. He is so dear to our hearts, he is a daily inspiration, and just by looking into his eyes helps us both see the bigger picture. We have loved every minute, and continue to take in all of the small things as they come along. First it was the first walk, to the first sleep together, now it ranges from adorable yawns, to morning cuddles. It is all pretty awesome.

As cinematographers we love discovering the small moments. It is moments like those morning cuddles that make life worth living, and having the ability to look back at all of our videos and pictures is something that we will always have to treasure and encapsulate this time in our lives, and when we became a family.

On another note, I was recently contacted by One Kings Lane in regards to their new resource center. This is such a fabulous tool for designers and design enthusiasts alike. Not only does it make searching for furniture ease, it also educates the user of the historical significance, as well as a general style classification, so if you are looking to go Art Deco, you can simply select that option and be redirected to other pieces that were created in the same time period. It is easy to navigate, and along the way you will learn a lot about coveted pieces in furniture history! See above and below my darling Bruce getting cozy on our fab Bertoia chairs. To learn more head to the resource center now!

One more very important note, Happy Remembrance Day to all the men and women who dedicated and gave their lives to this amazing country. We are proud to be Canadian, Lest We Forget.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Fall Flower Arrangements

2013-11-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

When I make flower arrangements I don't ever what it to feel overly themey or literal. I want them to feel a little rustic and throw together, but overall pretty. I love the idea of mixing pastels, with bright whites, and rich purples and maroons.

I put this bundle together for a shoot recently- I will share further details soon. I chose fresh bright white lilies, protea- one of my favorite falls additions, pink roses, and soft lavender baby's breath. I also brought in a lot of leafy greens to break things up a little. I think tulips would have also been pretty, ranunculus, and additionally if you were using this as a centrepiece for thanksgiving, you could embellish this with pears, or small apples!!

What are your favorite fall flowers?

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Moody

2013-10-23T15:59:00.000-04:00

Until recently our entranceway has been utter chaos. Ever since we moved in 2+ years ago this space became a storage area for junk to collect, every time I got home it sent shivers down my spine just looking at it!

I decided I wanted to go dark, camouflage any imperfections by using a moody deep shade of blue. There are shoe organizers on the wall, and this makes them blend it a lot more. I chose Farrow & Ball's- Drawing Room Blue as the inspiration and had my local hardware store mix it up for me in a semi-gloss- and voila. I LOVE it!

I added in some art, and painted my pine framed Ikea mirror the same colour to blend in to the wall.

Consequently I still get shivers up my spine- but for good reason! Here is the result- I put a before shot below- unfortunately I didn't really take a good before pic, I forgot!! Prior to that the idea of taking a picture of the space was not even in my plane of thought, so this one will have to represent. Note at this point all of the clutter has been put on the curb, or organized away!!

Sconce/ Metallic Bins/ Forrest Painting/ Lime Painting/ Pottery Print

BEFORE

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Traditional Americana

2013-10-16T15:55:00.003-04:00

My style is very eclectic. I love to create a balance of classic and modern design. Art deco, mid-century modern, and a hint of lux, is my recipe for a relaxed chic interior. This project called for a Classic color palette -red, white and blue designs, accented with brass and rich walnut. A perfect retreat for children, nothing too opulent, character filled- The perfect place to create childhood memories!

Layered with color and texture- with the use of vibrant art, a contemporary geometric wall covering, and rich floor textures, this space feels warm and cozy.

Please contact me for any of the source materials. Or visit me on Pinterest.

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Chevron + Man Cave

2013-10-11T17:26:00.000-04:00

Here is a project I worked on over the summer. I was finally able to schedule a time to shoot it for my portfolio. This is a bachelor pad, I was asked to take a pretty bare space and add a little lux. The budget was very tight, so the feature wall was to be the major "wow" factor in this space. It is still a work in progress, but a big departure from what we started with. It really is incredible what one can do with a few cans of paint, a different room configuration, and a few decorative objects!!

After the jump see a pic of before & more afters!!

Here is a Before Pic & More Afters... So much more fun!!

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Pillow Talk

2013-10-09T08:00:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite ways to add pops of colour in a space is to add fabulous throw pillows. When the season changes you can swap them out, you can mix and match and rotate them through your space, and when you get bored of them- Update with new ones!!!

Here are some of my favourite options online. Hard for me to pic which one I like best!

Pink and Red, Elephant, Ivory

Blue Leopard Print, Teal, Zebra

Black and White Abstract, Green and White Ikat,

Rita Konig

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Emerald & Teal

2013-10-08T16:42:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite colour combinations are teal and emerald. The most recent issue of Rue totally inspired me. This space feels rich and feminine, easy but not trying to hard. I LOVE IT.

White walls are a perfect canvas to bold colours like this, they feel fresh, and don't overwhelm the space. The modern accents compliment the rich textures, in this perfectly layered space.

Via

Always Stay Graceful,

L.

Evergreen Brickworks

2013-10-07T08:00:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend Blayre and I had the pleasure of shooting one of our favorite couples at the Evergreen Brickworks. Every Saturday the Brickworks hosts a farmers market full of delicious food, live music, and beautiful grounds to enjoy while you are there. Once a brick producing industrial site, responsible for the materials in many famous Toronto landmarks, it now serves as a fabulous event space, and evironmentally focused community space. If you have not been, I highly encourage you to go and experience yet another fabulous experience Toronto has to offer!

Always Stay Graceful,

L.