::thankful::

In the midst of a changing year, it's important to remember everything that 2010 had to offer. I'm eager for 2011 to bring motivation and a fresh, new face as I continue to pursue my passion, explore the world, and share new experiences with the ones I love (new and old). Due to life's many circumstances, I wasn't able to share enough of 6 petals. This blog has been an outlet for inspiration and learning. I'm so grateful to have found others that share a love for vintage, graphic design, creativity, nature, style, entrepenuership, interior design, and handmade crafts-- there's so much talent! Through various shows and events, 6 petals is so thankful for all the support this year and lucky to have met such great people in the process.

I'm very thankful. Thanks, 2010. Hello, 2011! Dear readers, I hope you'll stick around for what the new year brings :)

Things I'm Thankful For print by Laura Berger (via Pikaland)

::6 petals is ready::

There are big things in store for 6 petals in 2011. Stay tuned :)

photograph by Hawes Photography

::i'm dreaming::

After 25 years, I finally experienced a white Christmas. Thank you, Santa.

images courtesy of wehearit

::chilly hello::

For this Florida girl, 30 degree Virginia weather has been chilling my bones. Luckily, most of the activities take place indoors. I'm not counting running from the boutique to the car as an outdoor activity...although that my be the only exercise I'm getting while on vacation.

I hope everyone is off work and enjoying time with friends and family. Now, time to get back to the Christmas music and a nice glass of Prosecco.

image from weheartit

::snowflake color inspiration::

I'm headed to Virigina next week, so I'm getting ready for frigid temperatures {and lots of hot chocolate}.

images from 20x200, color swatches by me

**EDIT: Hey guys, sorry for the delay on more simple gift wrapping ideas! I'll be busy this weekend with cute tutorials, and I can't wait to share them with you all.

::free printable gift tags::

image courtesy of Camilla Engman

With all of the gift buying, it's easy to forget about the gift wrapping. This is one of my favorite parts of giving presents. I've always helped my mom wrap family gifts {mostly hoping to sneak a peak at mine ;) Unfortunately, she's a very good hider!}

There are so many clever, and rather simple, ideas for making your gift look even more special. Have no fear, I'm here to help.

First up, are free printable gift tags from Swedish artist Camilla Engman. There's something about Scandinavians-- they're all so darn creative! I stumbled upon her beautiful blog and can't wait to tie these beauties on pretty boxes. I'd use hemp or decorative twine (available at most arts & crafts stores). For best results, print on white cardstock for better quality and stability.

Download these adorable gift tags here, too!

::weekend inspiration::

Here's to last minute decorating...

::pretty room::

There are so many great things about this room...

photo courtesy of Apartment Therapy

1. I love the use of a sofa or upholstered bench at the table. Growing up, my mom had a blue, wooden bench at our dinner table. It was so easy for the kids to slide in and eat up. And, mixing the white painted chairs with the dark wood table and hardwood floors provides the perfect contrast!
2. An antique, wooden table adds so much character. The long, thin table is great for small spaces like this studio!
3. A rustic chandelier completes the room. Using candles (though not superior for lighting an entire room) is so much more appealing than incandescent light bulbs.
4. Mix-matched frames and wall art, and placed somewhat randomly, make it more personal.
5. Fresh flowers are a must! This little bit of nature is pretty and provides wonderful aroma.
6. Skip curtains and valances to let in more natural light.
7. A cozy, neutral colored couch, perfect for snuggling up and watching a good chick flick or reading your favorite book ;)

Oh, and it's Friday. Woohoo! Have a wonderful, relaxing weekend everyone. Thanks for reading :)

::born free::

Love Free People.

::handmade, vintage, local::

I'm stunned that Christmas is right around the corner. Everywhere I look there are bright strands of colorful lights, plastic reindeer, and Evergreens on top of mini vans in route to their new home. So, of course, I'm getting excited to shop (it's true, I haven't started my Christmas shopping yet). And who could forget the inevitable 'Tacky Christmas Sweater Party'. You can't hate a theme party. Get ready to spike that hot chocolate {peppermint schnapps does the trick}...

To mix it up this year, I've decided to add a few limiting factors to my Christmas purchases. I vow to buy only gifts that are:

1. handmade - crafted by me or someone else for a one-of-a-kind gift
2. vintage - the dictionary defines vintage, "of lasting interest and importance; venerable; classic"
3. local - there are a handful of shops I can count on in my area. Gotta support local businesses :)

You see, I've been planning this for a while. With 6 petals, a slew of super talented Etsy artists and vintage sellers, and a few local stores, I'll find the goods.

In the meantime, here are some favorites that fit into these three categories:

handmade goods

{Like this pink flower crocheted necklace from 6 petals Etsy shop. {{more to come}} }

vintage goods

{Like this "Eever-so-pretty" ceramic creamer. Will be in the shop SOON.}


local goods

1. m.marie for holiday dresses, handbags, jewelry...everything --my sister will thank me ;)
2. Lasater Flowers & Gifts for some holiday (flower) cheer!
3. This one's on my Christmas list...Groundwork Yoga. Om.
4. La Vida Dolce. They have the neatest gold reptile cast mold ring of all time, I need it! Did you hear that Santa?!
   

Here's the catch: having everything wrapped by Dec. 24th. My Christmas cards are made, so that's a start!

::it's getting colder::

The weather is finally agreeing with the season here. It's a nice, brisk welcome to December. Wait, it's December?!

I'm always looking for inspiration, and I love finding new artists. I stumbled upon Camila do Rosario's Flickr and fell in love. Her illustrations are so beautiful. I envy her ability to put such emotion in the facial expressions of these beautiful, feathered girls. Not to mention the detail in their exotic garb. Now, wrap yourself up in a comfy throw blanket, pour some hot tea and take in some color inspiration:

That one's my favorite-- the "what are you lookin' at?" face.

Images courtesy of Camila do Rosario's Flickr. Color swatches added by me.

How's your Christmas shopping coming along? I haven't started, but I have an ace up my sleeve. More on that tomorrow ;)