Vintage Indie

Handmade Crush: Bridal Hat

Handmade silk flowers along with antique lace make this hat truly special.

Crush: Henry Bridal Hat

Designer:  Delightworthyn Art/Wares

Tales from the Flea Market Episode 5 by Cindy Cooper: Vintage Garden Necessities

Alameda Point Antiques and Collectibles Faire
The Main Runway at Alameda Point. Alameda, CA
http://www.antiquesbybay.com

It's officially Summer!

Whether gardening is a passion or on the list of things to try, the many flea market vendors of Alameda, offer impressive vintage garden decorations, trinkets and elements to lift the spirits in any outdoor space, and well-worn tools that are experienced and ready to work the earth.

First stop - Sandi Cook and her son Eric Rollins spaces D4-5, which has the most dazzling array of vintage flower frogs in cast iron and leaded glass in striking colors.  Flower frogs are used to help arrange flowers and make a garden arrangement stand proud. A flurry of patents in the 1920s, followed the metal flower frog popularity, all claiming to save the housewife time and allow her to beautifully and creatively arrange flowers.

After the glory of the flower frogs, William Berg of William's Antiks comes up next on the radar.  William offers French urban rural, deco, modernism, bistro & kitsch as well as vintage and restored leather club chairs.  His selection of watering cans look as though they were plucked fresh off a lavender farm in northern France and they actually may have been as William ships a fresh supply of Paris flea market discoveries on a frequent basis. 

Vintage garden necessities
Down the aisle a bit on the corner of G21 is La Petite Chaise. Mary de la Vega has set-up a setting featuring a galvanized industrial sink and wooden potting bench perfect for the gardening porch and an assortment of tools to make you an experienced gardner just by taking them home.  Most intriguing was the long stake-like rusted wrought iron pieces that slip into the ground leaving a large round holes exposed - viola! a hose guide.  Really fancy way to keep your garden hose in line. Spickets, watering cans, metal baskets and simple everyday items with an overwhelming amount of visual intrigue - all delightful pieces to build an inspiring garden story in your own backyard.

 

It's no longer necessary to just fantasize about having the perfect gardening pieces to start a collection or add to an existing one.  Wonderful gardening adornments and some plain and simple tools can all be found at the Flea Market.

Find Mary de la Vega of La Petite Chaise , William's Anitks & Sandi and the collection of flower frogs can be found at Alameda Point.

Vintage Indie is happy to welcome Cindy Cooper as our newest Guest Contributor. She'll be joining us for "Tales From the Flea Market" a new series sharing real life stories of trips to the flea market. Cindy Cooper is also a vintage jewelry aficionado and would love to help answer your vintage jewelry questions.

Through the Lens: A Brief Moment to Inhale

Today I'm taking a brief moment to just inhale. Life is so consuming right now. I'm feeling slightly overwhelmed today. Laundry to do, berries to be picked, jam to be made. My boys and are are going to take some time to get some things accomplished and a brief moment to just inhale. I'll leave you with some inspiration Through the Lens of BriefMoments.

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Life }

Please click the Images to Enlarge.

© Vintage Indie Blog

{ SHOP }
© Photography Brief Moments

My Vintage Pad Home (Room) Tour: Caterina Martini Rome, Italy

Welcome to another home tour here at Vintage Indie. Today we would like to welcome Caterina Martini a student from Rome, Italy who gives us a peek into her family's dreamy home. I think you will enjoy her space and her beautiful photography. She also owns a vintage shop on Etsy, in which we'll talk about shortly! 

Can you tell us where you are from? Did you grow up here?

Hello, my name is Caterina, I am 21 years old and I’m an art history student.

I was born and raised in Rome, Italy, where I currently live with my parents and sister. Since I was little I’ve been traveling a lot with my family. Our favorite destination was the United States, where I lived for a few months when I was twelve. Since then I’ve been in love with the American aesthetic and culture, which influenced my style a lot.

 

Our white kitchen cupboard filled with vintage china and utensils. Another recent kitchen favorite is a reproduction of a candy dispenser, yet to be filled.

As you can see from the pictures, our house is a bit of a mixture. I am an avid collector of vintage 1950s and 1960s objects, which I displayed mostly in my room and in the kitchen.

My room is my refuge, decorated with props from my favorite era. The wallpaper and the overall décor were inspired by vintage American candy shops, but I threw a bit of everything into the mix. My favorites are the vintage white ice-skates hanging on the wall…I love winter and they make me dream of skating on frozen lakes!

 

The living room is decorated with vintage furniture like the clock, an Art deco dining table with mismatched chairs, and our beloved 1918 piano, definitely my favorite thing in the room. The mirrored cupboard and the rocking chair are family heirlooms. I love things with a history, it makes everything so much more interesting.

 

 

 

We added random objects found in garage sales and antique shops, like tea-pots, plates and a lovely French tray decorated with birds. My mom and I love to scavenge together, and as you can see we have a passion for chickens! 

 

The room with the blue flowered wallpaper is my sister’s bedroom. It was inspired by French style, and has a more romantic feel. All the pictures on the walls are vintage, our favorite is the little Peter Rabbit one. 

 

I adore traditional paintings of American cottages, and I acquired a few over the years, dotting them around the house. I hope to have my own cottage one day…

Where do you find inspiration for decorating your home?

My decorating inspiration comes mainly from the traditional American aesthetic (especially the New England Country and Primitive style), combined with a bit of 1950s fun elements. I also credit several stylish people in the blogosphere, such as the colorful pictures by Alicia Paulson. 

How do vintage things play a role in your room/home?

Vintage things play a huge role in my decorating style. In some cases, like my room, they make up the very essence of the décor. Even when I can’t find original vintage things, I try to re-create a vintage atmosphere using reproductions and a bit of imagination. Because I didn’t grow up at that time (although I wish I had!), I’m moved by fascination, curiosity and my naive sensibility, rather than nostalgia. 

 

Caterina's Room

 

 

Do you think you've been influenced by family in the way that you decorate?

Although I have several family pieces in my house, I can’t say the traditional Italian style influenced me much. In fact, my house is probably one-of-a-kind here in Rome! My mother’s taste, however, was a huge influence. We have a lot of fun together!

 

Living Room

 

Living Room Table

Any advice on creating your look?

Hunt, hunt, hunt! The best things aren’t hard to find if you have patience. Try to create a cozy atmosphere, then mix it up with fun details. If it’s your thing, go for pastels, and don’t be afraid to play with colors. 

I've really enjoyed your photography , is this a hobby or do you do it professionally?

Thank you! I’m not a professional, although I did take some classes. Photography is another way for me to escape from modern reality, so I like using effects and filters to alternate colors and make the pics look old. I also like playing with my grandpa’s old camera, film prints were the best. 

I noticed you also have and Etsy shop, Retrocall. What types of items can we find there?

Again, a token of my love for all things vintage… I started by selling my own handmade retro-looking illustrations, then moved on to clothes and various kinds of objects like vintage cups and postcards. Sometimes I just can’t find the space for my finds, or the vintage clothes I buy don’t fit me. So, my loss is your gain!

A special thank you to Caterina and her family for allowing us to tour your cozy home. 

Through The Lens: Bucks County Frames & Stunning Photography

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Life }


©Bucks County Frames


Bucks County Frames are nothing short of gorgeous eye candy. The beautiful frame pictured is also created by the photographer. Just when you thought it couldn't get any better, Bucks County Frames chooses to produce environmentally sustainable frames. Their craftsmanship is not typical moulding, as each one is handcrafted and created with a furniture quality finished corner. On top of the beauty of their heirloom quality frames they are VOC (volatile organic compounds or chemicals) free! Visit Bucks County Frames & Moulding Co. on Etsy. Be sure to take a look at their profile as well.

Making the Most of Monday: Reader Discussion - Encourgement

If you are new to the magazine, Making the Most of Monday is a regular part of our features. Mondays  signify one important thing, a fresh start. It's like a new years resolution at the start of every week.

Hopefully by Monday you've taken some off time during the weekend to rejuvenate, spend quality time with loved ones and friends, which makes Monday your chance to really get to work and make the most of your week.

If you missed the last Making the Most of Monday click here for "Set Your Own Pace"

Encouragement

 I posted to Twitter this morning, " What kind of encouragement do you need today?"  Often times, I look to others for encouragement in many areas of my life. Whether it's fairly simple topics like restoring a piece of furniture or more serious areas like, parenting, working from home etc.

Reader Discussion -

What area in your life are you seeking encouragement? I'd love it if you could post them below and maybe myself or one of our lovely readers can help.

In the meantime, here are a few places I visit for encouragement.

Starr Strung

NieNie ( This family, touches my soul on so many levels. They have such a great testimony of faith & perseverance. Prepare yourself with tissues.)

The Lazy Organizer

Michelle Wegner

Centsational Girl  (love her tutorials)

Inspireco

Nature Moms Blog

I realized that this list could go on and on so I had to stop here. So what kind of encouragement do you need?

Have a great week, I look forward to this discussion with you.

xoxo Gabreial

The Daily Swank - handbags, wallets and wearables.

You made me smile because you are not afraid of color.

 

ziazia

Handsewn Crush: Gaudy Couture

This mother and son duo create fashion from rescued discarded garments.
Now if I could only pull off this dress!



Crush: 'Let Them Eat Cake' Dress
Designer:  Gaudy Couture

©gaudycouture

Through the Lens: Potato Flake

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Life }

I have an affection with old red barns. I love how the photographer has turned these into art by altering them, bringing out their color.


Big Barn


Glowing Farm Building


Country Barn

{ SHOP }

©PotatoFlake

VI Headliner: MagnetStreet Weddings " Your Wedding, Your Way!"

It is my pleasure to announce our Featured Sponsor for July, MagnetStreet Weddings. MagnetStreet Weddings specializes in personality, personalization and perfection, just the way you would want your wedding to be.

Bold and Bright Colors are the theme for this " Sitting in a Tree" design.

or choose to tone it down with more subtle colors, using your own photographs for a true one-of-a-kind save the date.


Botanical Bloom  Above

 MagnetStreet Weddings creates beautiful designs, waiting for one of a kind sayings, and personality. Choose from one of their many designs for magnetic save the date cards, invitations and so much more. They also provide you with the traditional non magnetic options as well.

A special thank you to MagnetStreet Weddings for supporting Vintage Indie. We couldn't do it without your support!

If you're interested in supporting Vintage Indie with your small business please contact us or visit our advertisements page here.

On the Road with Special Guest Claire Bone of Glitter & Grunge: Roseville Antique Market, Roseville, CA

Vintage Indie would like to welcome our special guest for July, Claire Bone of Glitter and Grunge. She took us on the road with her to the Roseville  Antique Market

This is eye candy to end all eye candy. At least in the greater Sacramento area. I still have visions of tulle petticoats dancing in my head.



The Antique Market is held in Old Roseville on a little street which is closed off to traffic. There were about 50 vendors here, and it is clear that the event promoters have emphasized booth set up and arrangement because each booth was prettier than the next.


Prices aren't as low as the WX event (more like the neighborhood boutique) but there are still good deals to be found. Even though items may have been a little pricier I still walked away with a happy load of treasures.



 This event also had significantly more craft items. Easily a third or more of the vendors had a good selection of handmade goods at their booths.


I enjoyed this event all the more for it. It feels good to browse through a mix of handmade items and items with an interesting past.

Next Show:
Roseville Fall Antique Market
www.thetatteredhouse.com
September 20, 8 am - 4 pm
free admission, free parking


A special thanks to Claire Bone, if you have a moment visit her site Glitter and Grunge for fabulous independent artists, crafters and the like.

Saving Green One Sale at a Time: 15% off at LuLu*s

I love these two looks from LuLus.com especially the look on the left. Lulu*s, contacted me a few days ago letting me know about their newest category, vintage clothing! Lulu*s is a mother-daughter on-line store featuring up and coming designers and now vintage! Be sure to use code Vintage Indie during checkout for your 15% off discount!

Vintage Crush: Folksy Dutch Glass Pitcher

Crush: Folksy Dutch Glass Pitcher
Want it?  BInspiredVintage

ART STORIES: Wordrobe Stylist, Designer & Photographer Allister Ann

Vintage Indie would like to welcome Allister Ann as our featured artist, and independent designer this week.

Welcome to Vintage Indie, can you tell us what your preferred medium is?

I don't  have a preference, but photography,illustrating and sewing are what I am most comfortable with since I've been doing them the longest. I have so much more to learn within those mediums and that's what keeps it exciting.

 
Fashion Sketches

How did you get started?

Art in general has always been a predominate part of my life. I grew up with parents who were artistic and creative, and they encouraged us to be involved in art and music. My two brothers are both artists; the older a sculpture working in latex ,and the younger ( at 19) is a professional sculpture in the model and toy industry.

Studio

I followed my grandmother's footsteps; she was an incredibly talented fashion illustrator. At an early age I fell in love with fashion design..began sketching at 12, learned how to sew, and at 17 started my own clothing line; Allister Couture.

Allister Couture Dress

At 18 I moved to Los Angeles from Denver and attended FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) majoring in design with a minor in fashion illustration. While going to school, I became interested in photography. LA was a great city to explore with a camera- and started doing photo shoots for friends which led to paid shoots and later worked for a company doing photography for their on-line catalog. Gradually my hobby turned into a profession! After almost 2 years in Los Angeles, I happened to go to Nashville for a photo shoot and ended up loving the city so much I moved there- and am currently working in Nashville as a freelance photographer as well as doing fashion illustrations for a menswear clothing book that will be coming out this fall!


Allister Couture Menswear

Who or what inspires you?

I love this quote by Paul Gauguin:

"I shut my eyes in order to see"  When I look at someones work, it doesn't inspire me as much as it challenges me. Ideas can come from anywhere,but I feel inspiration comes from within. I think it,combined with motivation and commitment is the key to execution.Those elements drive us to follow through and translate that inspiration into something. I believe everyone has artistic creativity within them. The only difference between the artist and the admirer is that the artist has the passion to produce."

 
Bette Shell Necklace

What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into this medium?

As far as photography; it's as simple as picking up a camera...and it doesn't have to be an expensive one. I have seen great photographs come from throw-a-ways. For sketching or painting, I think the one thing we fear most is blank space.. Just pick up that pencil or paintbrush and start. With any medium,don't be intimidated. It's a matter of trial and error; experimenting until you discover what gives you joy. Just remember... when one measures himself to another, or tries to define his own worth based upon comparison, that's when creativity becomes inhibited. Always do it purely for you.

 

"Eventually I discovered for myself the utterly simple prescription for creativity: Be intensely yourself. Don’t try to be outstanding; don’t try to be a success; don’t try to do pictures for others to look at - just please yourself."

 - Ralph Steiner
 

Does vintage play a role in your art or life? If so, how?

I was lucky enough to grow up in a household that had a great appreciation for the old.We had cars from the 1940's and 50's and most items in our home were either passed down,or a treasure discovered at a flea market,garage sale or antique shop. I've continued that tradition and try as much as possible to incorporate my love for vintage in my work; whether in a photograph, a drawing, or the jewelry pieces that I make.

Between the Trees Vintage Copper and Crystal Necklace

What is important for your customer to know about your work?

That it simply comes from the heart....with love

A special thank you to Allister Ann for showing us an inside look into her world of photography, design and fashion. Visit Allister Ann at her blog, Etsy Shop and MySpace.

Through the Lens: Alice Gao Photography

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Life }




{ Alice Gao Photography }
{ SHOP }

©AliceGao

What Your Make of It: DIY Vintage Revamp Magnetic Memo Tray

Teri & Serena of The Farm Chicks are always inspiring others to create with their creative projects. Recently, I had the chance to make a vintage magnetic memo tray from their book The Farm Chicks in the Kitchen. This book is not only a cookbook, but it's filled with fun projects to get your creative juices flowing.



Create your own Vintage Magnetic Tray in 4 simple steps!

Gather Your Supplies:

• Metal Tray

• Super Glue/Metal Glue

• Rubber Stoppers

• Magnets & Notepaper

I've been holding on to this tray for awhile, waiting for just the right time to use it. I cleaned it up in some hot soapy water, and quickly dried so to not damage the paint.



Next I added a metal hanger, applying a bit of superglue. I placed a heavy can on top to assure that the metals bonded for a few minutes.



Third I added these little sticky bumpers made for cabinet doors and kitchen drawers, one on each corner to keep the metal from rubbing the wall. These have a sticky back and are easily removable.



Last, I hung my fancy new memo board on the wall, added a note and a fun magnet!

I hope you enjoyed my step by step project. Find this one and more in The Farm Chicks book here.

Handmade Crush: Fancy Lady Hair Piece

©Teri Hales Photography
Crush: Custom Fancy Lady Hairpiece

Designer: delicaTessn

Making the Most of Monday: Set Your Own Pace!

If you are new to the magazine, Making the Most of Monday is a regular part of our features. Mondays  signify one important thing, a fresh start. It's like a new years resolution at the start of every week.

Hopefully by Monday you've taken some off time during the weekend to rejuvenate, spend quality time with loved ones and friends, which makes Monday your chance to really get to work and make the most of your week.

If you missed the last Making the Most of Monday click here for "Set Backs"

Set Your Own Pace

Hey everyone!

How was your weekend? Are you refreshed, refueled and ready for another week? I'm ready for the weekend to rewind and start all over again. Its been a remodel and redecorate month in the Wyatt house and I'm ready for it to be over. Although once that project is finished we'll have yet another one to start.

Do you ever feel like you can't catch up with the world? Is this fast paced life is taking over your sanity? With Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, and every other site out there we feel a need to be connected to everyone all of the time. What about peace? Do you have any?

Are you rushed with breakfast, trying to catch up and late for lunch? Are you to busy thinking about dinner to complete the project you started yesterday? ( have I made it to 20 questions yet?) What I'm trying to get you to see is the constant treadmill of life that we're all living. It's non-stop and so faced paced we're having trouble keeping up.

I don't know about you, but I need a reminder that I'm in charge. I set my own pace to life. Daily routines feeding kids, laundry, business and work they're important and deadlines do have their respective roles, but what about everything else?

First and foremost am I enjoying life? Are my children benefiting from my happiness or are they suffering for my over-scheduling? This may sound a bit strange to you, but one of my main goals for us is to limit our TV time to a couple of hours a week, max. My heart wants to teach my children a love for a slower paced life. Home cooking from scratch, a love for books, enjoyment for simple things like laying in the grass with mom and dad talking about the clouds. I want them to enjoy and appreciate their surroundings as well as learn from them. I want history to be on our list of daily discussion rather than the latest and greatest television character. I want to mold my children not the tube! 

For me, setting my own pace means reevaluating priorities in our home and keeping our relationships strong. Think about this for a moment. If you work a full time job and only have so many hours each night to spend with your kids, what would you really like to do instead of sitting in front of the television? I'm going to do my best to see that my wishes and desires are met, but doing it at my own pace no matter what everyone else in the world is doing. What about you? Are you up for setting your own pace?

Have a great week everyone!
xoxo - Gabreial

Handmade Crush: Pitter Patter Pitter Patter...

...that's the sound of my fluttering heartbeat. I'm totally crushing this necklace from BlackStar.

Crush: Sea and Sand Necklace
Want it? SHOP BlackStar

Reader Discussion: Jams? Jellies? Marmalades? Preserves? I want the good stuff!

" You are the teacher of my pupil? This isn't art class, this is heaven"
 - SpongeBob SquarePants 

I've had this desire to learn how to make my own jams, jellies, marmalade's and preserves for as long as I can remember. Maybe it's the old school gal in me but mostly, it is because I want something natural from my own hands. I want the good stuff, you know minus the artificial everything. I've never made any of these before and I'm reaching out to you the experts for some advice and recipes.

Blue Mason Jar & Lifter - LittleYellowDoor
Vintage Food Mill - ArtsFarm


One Pint Queen Fruit Jar - VintageHomeRecycled
Canning Funnel  - Marianneclare

Do you have any recipes you could share? Do you have memories of making jams and jellies as a child? I'd love to hear! Feel free to post them below or leave a link to your own blog post with them.  My belly will thank you for it! xoxo Gabreial

Vintage Love Notes: Strappy Sandals

♥ Strappy Sandals ♥

 

♥ SHOP ♥

Italian Vintage Red - Ladies of Leisure

Italian Teal Open Toe - Bunny Breath

Lavender Wedge - Sweet Love Vintage

Green Grass Strappy Sandals - Vintage Take Out

Saving Green One Sale at a Time: Free Shipping @ Bethsbagz

Visit Bethsbagz for details.

Disclaimer: Vintage Indie is not responsible for any sale typos, mistakes or sales being offered/posted. 

On the Road with Special Guest Claire Bone of Glitter & Grunge: Sacramento Antique Faire

Vintage Indie would like to welcome our special guest for July, Claire Bone of Glitter and Grunge. She took us on the road with her to the Sacramento Antique Faire.

As long as I can remember I have loved antique stores, flea markets, thrift stores - you know all the usual places those will a penchant for hoarding tend to like to hang out. Sacramento, CA and its surrounding towns have always been home to a fine population of Antique Stores, large thrift warehouses and in the last few years, some really killer street faires, most notably the 2nd Sunday Antiques Under the Freeway. Lucky for me I live here and can plunder the wealth of other collectors all I want. I had a chance to visit both Sacramento Antique Faire and Roseville's Spring Antique Market and am pretty giddy about the collectors and crafters gathered at both events. My husband was decidedly less giddy because I made the rookie mistake of taking him and letting him hold the cash. My dad was an avid collector, so I mistook my husband for him, haha!

Sacramento Antique Faire
www.sacantiquefaire.com
Second Sunday of every month
6:30 am - 3 pm,  $3

300 vendors for $3 is not a bad deal I tell you! It seemed as if there was a huge variety of vendors, magazines, records, clothes, furniture, toys (oh the vintage Fisher Price!!). hardware, glassware. You name it, it's here and most of it comes at a great price. Its also conveniently located in two parking lots under Hwy 50 between W and X streets (dubbed the "WX"). I have gone the last three months in a row and spoken to several vendors and some of the long term vendors who participate every month told me that they like to bring different inventory each time. Wonderful news for those of us who want to attend every month.

If you have kids and you give them a dollar or two, many of the vendors had little dollar tables which were great to cease the whining - at least for a little while (not 10 minutes after I bought my kids a vintage Little People Tudor House my son whined for the 50th time "This is my worst day EVER!" Happy Mother's Day to me!). If you collect it chances are there is a vendor for it... (The only thing I don't think I'll ever understand is the collect-ability of political and souvenir buttons. Really. I just don't get it.) If you are looking for handmade items the WX is a great place, many sellers sell handmade items as well as their usual antique inventory.

A special thanks to Claire Bone, if you have a moment visit her site Glitter and Grunge for fabulous independent artists, crafters and the like.

Through The Lens: Fruits & Vegetables

{ Through the Lens } { Independent Photography } {Inspired by Food }




Do you ever just stop and really look at nature? Do you notice the beautiful colors, the unmistakable lines and uniqueness of fresh fruit and vegetables? It's easy to take these everyday items for granted, don't you think? These fine art photographs by Vacco, inspires me to cook. (They also make me hungry).

Photographs © Vacco

Speaking of food, one of my favorite bloggers Ree of Pioneer Woman has just launched a new foodie community called Tasty Kitchen.  It is very well organized and I think will be a new favorite spot of mine. Join me at Tasty Kitchen with Window's Live for chats about food!

The Daily Swank - Olive Someday

Today's Daily Swank comes from Etsy shop Olive Someday. They're creating sweet wall adornments for your home, bringing vintage frames to life by pairing them with vintage illustrations.

Purchase a frame kit from OliveSomeday and add to it your child's artwork. Another idea, add illustrations you've been holding on to, for a unique one of a kind art wall in your home.