Miss Domm

Sweet Sunday.

2011-02-27T16:54:00.003Z

By way of chocolate.

Chocolate Leaf Cupcakes with Redcurrant & Blueberry Compote, to be exact.

I love my housmate...

she's kind of brilliant.

Scones Englais et Lemon Curd.

2010-11-04T23:26:00.005Z

Ooo and pretty plates, rustic tables and blackberry jam.
It's 23:33 but that Anthropology apron isn't too far away.

Note: Christelle's flabbergasting rocks. See here.

'La Belle Au Boir'

2010-10-22T19:20:00.014+01:00

I'm all wedding-ed out.

Well, I was. I was until I saw Piers Atkinson's SS11 millinery collection.

Twisted frills, golden apples, wisteria embroidery and pearl veils?
Is he trying to make me lovesick? I'm like putty in his hands.

Dear God, when's the next wedding?
Could I walk, effortlessly down the street sporting 'Golden Delicious' until the next wedding invite arrives?

I want them all. Even the peculiar "Who am I?" golden mask one.
Halloween isn't too far away,
but who can I convince to get married again...?

Notes: Piers Atkinson's magical world of millinery wonder can be found, here. Roll on SS. Now, breathe.

I Want A Roof Terrace.

2010-09-22T23:06:00.004+01:00

This 1980's one step Polaroid camera shot only makes it worse.

Note: Abby Try Again Photography.

There is a Goddess.

2010-08-11T00:08:00.010+01:00

And, she's called Maria Lucia Hohan.

Floaty, swirly, pastel-soaked, pleated, floral (should never be hung on plastic) goodness.

To be served with bubbly.

In true girly-girl company.

Amidst a sea of vintage cushions.

On any day of the week.

For ever and ever.

Amen.

With thanks to Design Your Fashion, my birthday wish list needs an overhaul.

Stuff the Olympus Pen.

Gimme' pretty dresses, please.

Note: Information and photography via Design Your Fashion. Go peek.

The Sunday Evening Monday Mood.

2010-06-06T23:04:00.006+01:00

Feathers n' Tutus, Jewels and Curls.

Lace, Love and Stripes with Pearls.

Samuel Bisson.

2010-05-13T20:14:00.003+01:00

As I sit here, with wisdom toothache, I stumble across Nuit Blanche. It won the international LG award and is a somewhat perfect little addition to my otherwise uneventful evening. I think I'm in love. Again.

I could sit here and listen to Samuel Bisson all day.

It's a Bird Thing.

2010-04-11T15:45:00.002+01:00

Pretty bird illustrations from Jason LaFerrera are perfect for a pretty Spring Day.

Banter Banner.

2010-02-28T10:05:00.007Z

A warning to all. I'm rekindling the love -
The Witty Banner Love.
Angela Deane's company Banter Banner helps us 'celebrate the everyday' in style.

Note: Gorgeous imagery from Banter Banner.

Recipe for a Dream: Heather Waraksa.

2010-02-24T18:33:00.007Z

Heather Waraksa + Camera + Ultra cool Bride&Groom + love (an' plenty of it)
=
a Miss Domm dream.

Two snippets from Jess and Mike's wedding.
Photographed by the amazingly talented Heather Waraksa whose photos make me swoon.
Shoots like this rekindle the dream - to get that lovely business venture started. Soon, soon, soon.

Note: Imagery, Styling, Shoot by Heather Waraksa. See her Photoblog, here.

Talula.

2010-02-16T13:11:00.015Z

Talula, Talullah.

I wish my name was Talulah.

Perhaps then, I could meet the Art Director/Stylist for Talula's SS'10 collection.

Stemmed Edwardian roses, passionately scattered across the most perfect white wooden floors.

Each shot makes me want to magically transform into a shabby, debutante surrounded by morbid-infused wonder. The clothes are nice but the true charm really is in the styling. It's glorious.

Note: Imagery from Talula.

Who has my heart?

2010-01-30T13:06:00.003Z

Bird & Banner

A favourite Lady sent me a link to this today.
I love it. Bird & Banner totally have my heart.

Mood.

2010-01-23T19:34:00.005Z

Spring Faith: In keeping with Love

Baby Girl Love.

2010-01-22T21:31:00.011Z

Bless your precious little heart
You still don't know as yet
How happy and excited
Grown-up folks can get

But soon you will discover
The pride and gladness too
That started on the happy day
Their home was blessed with you.

My closest friends now have a daughter and I could not be happier for them.
A mini person to love. Baby Girl Love.

Note: Perfectly gorgeous sleepy grey kitten doesn't belong to me, sadly. Gus Gus belongs to the lovely Lisa Weatherbee.

No words.

2010-01-20T10:32:00.002Z

Just light.

I would like.

2010-01-18T11:06:00.009Z

More Bando Corsages
A Jen Gotch Print
Fleur

I found myself renaming the 'I want' folder to 'I would like' today.
Social graces bring confidence, after all.

Note: Imagery in order of appearance - Ban.do Corsages and knitted cardies, Jen Gotch Print by the utterly fabulous Jen Gotch and 'Fleur' by Rock 'n Rose Jewellery.

Happiness.

2010-01-07T23:48:00.012Z

I've been told to keep a gratitude diary. So, every evening I'm going to write down three good things that have happened, however small. January is a wibbly, wobbly, bluesy month but we have to focus on what 'we have right now, not what we don't have, and to live in the moment.'

A fabulous tip. Thank you Rosalind Ryan.

My Type?

2010-01-07T12:31:00.008Z

Architype Van Doesburg, apparently.
What Type are you?

Password is character - if you fancy a go.

Note: Link, thanks to the wonderful Notcot.

Snow in Pimlico.

2010-01-07T00:04:00.003Z

Yes, yes, the whole world and her cat is talking about the snow...
but, you have to agree, it is rather pretty (from a window).

A confession.

2009-12-27T14:46:00.005Z

Here's hoping everyone's Christmas has been as relaxed as mine.
So relaxed in fact, that I've a horrible confession to make.
I've not sent any cards out this year.

I'm a bad bad person. Bad, bad, bad.

I'll customise the prints above instead.
Belated Christmas love, big Thank You's and New Year wishes all rolled into one.

More Love.

2009-12-07T11:08:00.010Z

Today's inspiration is littered with Love. A Love for all things pretty.
Click on the images to find the artists.

Love.

2009-12-01T10:44:00.002Z

Classic Typewriter by Dekanimal.

Quote.

2009-11-26T11:23:00.007Z

"The true way to render ourselves happy is to love our work and find in it our pleasure."
This definition of happiness by Francoise de Motteville

Inspired by my Flickr favourites, the above 6 help to inspire creative thinking today.
Stunning and admirable photography with thanks to...

Yvette Inufio (No.1,2 & 3)
Shana Rae (No.5)
I.Anton (No.6)

White, Pom Pom Paws.

2009-11-26T10:49:00.006Z

Another one to add to the #ChristmasWishList.
More Pom Pom wonder from Sara Lagace, here.

Simple.

2009-11-21T10:29:00.005Z

Screen Prints. Screen Prints. Screen Prints.
My Christmas present 'theme' - I want them (please). I'm making them.

Workerman represents 'Clean, modern and simple' design. I completely agree with the talented Adam Brackney,
that this is 'the way life should be'.

Note: Image from Workerman. A wonderfully refreshing designer, who will no doubt be snapped up very soon.

Crockery "for girls only".

2009-11-12T12:07:00.004Z

Roses, bunting and birdies. Birdies, roses and bunting.
Nina's work stole my heart this morning, her style is utterly divine - perfect for any girlie residence.

Go see her Etsy ...
Be warned though, I will be purchasing most of the collection!

Pretty Vintage Drawers.

2009-11-10T20:50:00.011Z

Wrought Iron handle.
An elaborate key.
Rustic pieces of wood etched with history.
A brand spanking new (dare I say Ikea themed) shelf.

Lightly mixed with creative enthusiasm. This is SchubLaden.

I just must have at least a small, tiny, personalised shelf. The team at SchubLaden fit vintage character into new pieces of furniture for a clean, presentable look with tonnes of character. I wish they weren't in Berlin.

Note: Lovely pictures from SchubLaden.

Settled.

2009-11-05T19:59:00.002Z

I've moved to Pimlico and after one day, I'm settled.
It has everything to do with my bedroom. Cue "Yay"!

Note: My version of events, my bedroom.

Just Bootiful.

2009-11-02T20:36:00.009Z

When the Bride looks like this...

...and the Bridesmaids pose like that.

I can truly say it was an absolute honour to be asked to take some "oh-so-dreamy" photos on my best girl's special day. This Uber trendy gal and her equally awesome beau were bound to pull out all the stops. Never have I been to (and I've been to plenty of Weddings) such an utterly picturesque occasion; so beautifully planned with meticulous attention to detail.

I felt like I was in some sorta Fairytale.
Magical, romantical and just bootiful.

Note: Last picture? "The Rowdy Table"... me (far right) and the Uni girls, together at last.

Fashion for Queen.

2009-11-02T16:39:00.003Z

A very special friend of mine is 7 months pregnant.
This weekend, she has asked me to do some illustrations for the Nursery - primarily for selected textiles and walls - and the whole baby chit-chat got me thinking. I'm not in the least bit maternal but absolutely LOVE this photo by Terence Donovan.

Frilly knickers rule.

Designfruit.

2009-10-27T13:17:00.002Z

This adorable graphic birdie could be yet another pointless purchase.
A mere £9? See more, here.

Ridiculousness.

2009-10-22T09:32:00.003+01:00

In abundance.

I'm taking on a little bit too much at the moment.
I should really, politely with a smile, say "No" a bit more.
Instead it comes out as "maybe", or "no worries" or "I can shuffle things round, don't fret".

Soon, soon I will be starting my own thing and dedicating my precious time to the things that really matter.
For now, I'll stumble across ridiculous images to aspire to and stick em' on the inspiration wall.

Thanking you, Philip Newton.

Chloe Aftel. Go fall in Love.

2009-10-12T09:11:00.004+01:00

As I carefully consider my last few polaroids I am inspired by Chloe Aftel's eye for bespoke subtleties. She really is an incredibly talented photographer and has certainly encouraged me to focus on the portrait not the pretty object, for once. The four images above just ooze vintage poise, and thre's plenty more where they came from... Chloe's portfolio site is here. Go fall in Love.

Note: All imagery from Chloe Aftel Studio.

Walking, just Walking.

2009-10-07T23:30:00.003+01:00

I can handle the rain - practical brolly an' all.

Note: Snapshots from the phone whilst walking/running/sprinting in the rain.
Most definitely not singing.

Monday's Survival Kit.

2009-10-05T07:33:00.003+01:00

Blurgh. It's Monday, and I'm being all stroppy about it (me and 99.9% of the world).
Romantic, colourful, dreamlike images will surely help the horribly chirpy Ellie to return?

Monday's Survival Kit.

Note: Photos bar bottom left by the utterly divine Cig Harvey.

Still all tingly.

2009-09-29T23:12:00.004+01:00

The perfect wedding on Saturday has left me feeling all tingly.
I shall leave you with a Gia Canali Polaroid until I post why.

Poetic Justice.

2009-09-22T22:05:00.008+01:00

Apparently flowers in one's hair is "sooo last season". I disagree.
Accessories designer Myra Kim - Notorious creator of Twigs & Honey - shows us exactly how it should be done.

Poetic Justice indeed.

Note: "Must must must have" accessories can be located here, after moseying on over here.

The Mr Wells Shirt.

2009-09-13T19:30:00.008+01:00

A recent collaboration with a lovely Lady I met earlier this year, after approaching her to help me create a little gift for someone special. Lucy Adams and her delightful business, dedicated to bespoke shirt tailoring, really demonstrates how important it is to provide the personal touch.

I designed this floral repeat for Mark and his beautiful wife, Sophie, when they married earlier this year and really wanted to create something unique to him, to say Thank You - he has been a true godsend throughout my degree and since graduating; I can't thank him enough. Ever since I've known Mark, Liberty shirts have filled his wardrobe and I was encouraged to create an all-over print rather than sticking to a collar detail (a Lucy Adams' speciality).

To complete the look, the very talented creatives at Tino&Pip photographed Mr Wells and his new shirt.
Have a look at their portfolio, here.

The shirt is digitally printed onto cotton poplin, has mother of pearl buttons and, thanks to Lucy, is truly bespoke in every sense of the word. We're already putting our design heads together, hoping to combine forces and collaborate further. Watch this space. It's amazing what a little email can do!

Note: Fabric designed by Me, shirt created/tailored to fit (Mark) by Lucy Adams, modelled by the fabulous Mr Mark Wells and photographed by Tino&Pip.

Little Lady.

2009-09-08T18:07:00.002+01:00

A small illustration for a little Lady.
Baby Molly to be precise.

Making a box of goodies for mum and baby to enjoy.

Pretty.

2009-08-09T20:30:00.002+01:00

Sourcing prettiness for a pretty, perfect Lady's wedding in September.
3 for the B'Maids,
1 for ... me.

Sigh.

2009-07-28T17:51:00.004+01:00

Dear beloved, 1930s Terra Cotta 'perfect for a Lady' handbag,

'You' are now 30% off. (Why thank you flawless Shop Assistant.)
Therefore, priced at a mere £240.00.
I do hope 'you' know that this is love at first sight?
And, that the Veruca Salt in me wants to buy 'you' now?!

Oh, beautiful 'you' (currently ensconced within the Liberty vintage section), why do you tempt me so? How were 'you' to know my unpractical, metallic purse is already stretched to its somewhat restrictive limit?
That's right... it is my birthday soon!
If 'you' are still lovingly longing for the rightful, treasured partner to parade 'you' daily as of next week... then maybe, just maybe I shall succumb.

I do hope we meet again under less pressured circumstances.

Signed,
Hopelessly devoted. To 'you'.

Note: Scribble representing 'you' by me.

Coco.

2009-07-28T09:01:00.008+01:00

Audrey Tautou is Gabrielle Coco Chanel and despite heinous reviews I am actually rather looking forward to watching 'Coco avant Chanel' upon its release, Friday 31st July 2009.

Not one to believe everything one reads, Audrey Tautou has been a favourite of mine since Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain (Amélie) and even if the synopsis does miss vital chapters from young Coco's life, such as her affair with Hans Gunther von Dincklage, I am happy to admire one strong, passionate, mysterious female icon representing another.

Note: Images from Allo Ciné.

Ahh. Tim Walker.

2009-07-23T13:45:00.004+01:00

What with beehive hair and many, many layers of soft fabrics, I do feel a little like this.

Perhaps not so graceful...

Note: Tim 'thou who art God' Walker image found in my box of donated treasures. Can also be seen online here.

Hmpf.

2009-07-20T17:20:00.004+01:00

I'm ill and I'm a terrible patient. How on earth can I stay in bed and be looked after? I've so much to do! Stubbornness gets me nowhere though and despite being as white as a sheet, looking about 16 years old (zero energy to apply make-up) and developing odd cravings for Dolly Mixtures I'm secretly enjoying it. I get to wear my lovely, unflattering, over-sized, comfy jumper and drink oodles of Tea in pretty china floral Teacups whilst obsessing over pretty flowers in one's hair. A little research before the 'Wedding of the Year' in September. My bestest most lovely girlie friend will be marrying her beau then. Another Yay.

Note: I'm useless. Beautiful image twas given to me... therefore I must admit to not knowing it's original source. Profuse apologies to it's fabulous creator.

Hands of Time.

2009-07-20T16:52:00.007+01:00

Hang in there.

Hello, my friend; You’re on my mind,
Because you're somehow ailing,
But your response to any challenge
Has always been unfailing.

So I’m confident you’ll win again;
Hang in there, and you’ll see;
You’ll be back on top in no time,
Tackling life courageously.

Some things just don't always go according to plan. Wise words by Joanna Fuchs were pushed in my direction, alongside a cuppa Tea in Rose China and some music. I forget my concerns and get taken away from reality for more than a minute just watching the Hands of Time.

Note: Teacuppery Treasure Clock found through It's a Jaime Thing.

Like Poetry in Motion.

2009-07-11T10:54:00.006+01:00

'Elegantly turned out, so much style

Ladylike to the core,
classic Eau-de-cologne daintily applied.'

Holly Stalder knows how to make a Lady feel special.

Note: Custom made wedding shrugs from HS, Etsy. Poem 'Elegance' by Lucille Van Onselen-Zunce.

Fuss-free Frills.

2009-07-05T20:46:00.006+01:00

Delightful extravagance is most appropriate for any Wedding...

Love these delicately positioned silky, feathery, Victoriana paletted Peonies.

And this adorable Dahlia head piece.

The Creme de la Creme however has to be this Crowning Glory.

I'm not getting married but I want one.
Lovely. Lovely.

Note: Rose Garden, A Heady Bouquet and Clowning Glory imagery from the fabulous Martha Stewart.

A New Fascination.

2009-06-30T00:29:00.007+01:00

Wait in line

'Till your time
Ticking clock
Everyone stop.

Life can sometimes offer a variety of options... which is all well and good, provided one particular decision is not dependent on someone else 'making' a decision. Sigh.
When in such a position I find myself being miraculously lured to destruction, of the friendly, creative kind. Nothing drastic, just creative motivation in order to put life into perspective.

Vintage clock parts could make beautiful, unique pendants for example.

Or even a quirky USB stick?

Having found my perfect shoes for 'the' wedding of the year I'm keen on creating a vintage statement. I shall however keep the very cool, very pointless USB for the office and maybe pull apart a 'few' old clocks to create a brooch. Or perhaps I had better settle on a dress first.

Note: Lyrics from Zero 7's "In the Waiting Line" (unfortunately does not wish to vacate from head.) Image 1/3 thanks to Country Living (a guilty subscription). Pendant from EDMDesigns.

Fuss. Procrastination. Fuss. Tea?

2009-06-22T10:17:00.008+01:00

In a sea of Dreamweaver code hell, I seek perspective.
I found this.
And quietly, I laugh.

Why thank you Marc Johns.
I think I'll just bloomin' get on with uploading my website now.
Nudging the logo a few mm's to the right is not going to make a blind bit o' difference.

Note: Harsh reality from Marc Johns.

Sleepy Mornings.

2009-06-19T10:26:00.005+01:00

I have lots to do but I'm sleepy today...
The calm after the storm perhaps?
Whilst I cautiously enjoy my peaceful surroundings
I admire other sleepy resources.

Expired Polaroid film imagery by Meg.

Note: Images from Mclrk.com. Go see.

Playful Couture.

2009-06-17T08:50:00.004+01:00

One forgets the arrogance
and remembers the Beauty.

Note: Courtesy of Fashion Photographer Gregoire Alexandre.

Embracing Tradition for a Little Lady.

2009-06-10T11:11:00.009+01:00

Smocking.

I'm looking for a quirky, unique idea for a Baby Girl.

/ I want to make something
/ I despise little ones looking like Mini Grown-Ups
/ Seek traditional attire
/ Annoyed with classic techniques producing old-fashioned creations
/ Could cope with Knitting but Little Lady in question already has knits growing out of her ears

Smocking need not be uncool.
I mean, I liked my Red Dress... albeit a tad bright.

With faultlessly frizzy hair, it looks releatively stylish...

And, technically it is rather beautiful. Demonstrated here beautifully by Tumbling Blocks.

Provided subject remembers etiquette. A lost sandwich will not do.

I'll see what I can come up with.

Note: Pattern from Garden Fairies Trading Company . Dated photographs temporarily stolen from Hilton-Domm Family Album. Honeycomb Tutorial by Tumbling Blocks.

Pink Jealousy.

2009-06-06T10:18:00.006+01:00

I'm Pink with jealousy.

Only pink, not green.
I absolutely adore the cutesy style of Swedish illustrator Sandra Juto and some mornings I wake up secretly wishing my style would magically transform into creations like this.

Gone are the days when I try to be something I'm not.
Instead I shall continue to fill my Hat Box of inspiration
and promote the talents that I stumble across daily.

Note: Images by Sandra Juto. Flickr.

Lost Birds.

2009-05-29T09:47:00.008+01:00

1. Believe
2. Mischief
3. Lover
4. Flirt

A day like today needs Patricia von Ah.

Note: Discovered via Scalo/Guye. "Lost Birds" imagery sourced from Patricia Von Ah.

A Perfect Day.

2009-05-29T08:34:00.008+01:00

I woke up naturally at 06:00.

It's one of those 'perfect' days.

Few clouds distributed with perfection.
Planes drawing lines in the sky.

Typically, I am inspired musically by the polar opposite and found this incredibly adorable animation to boot.

Sticking to a Mood a week.

2009-05-24T13:44:00.009+01:00

I am at my happiest when capturing a moment. I feel even better when I share visual interpretation with others. Learning how to conquer the creative blocks will undoubtedly be a constant battle but the one thing that helps is sporadic music affiliation. This helped me grab my Ink Pen and sketch away on a beautiful day. I forgot about the unimportant things troubling me and made a pact:

To weekly document 'My ever changing Mood'. A board, followed by a series of images.

A little self-therapy.

Note: Mood Board. Images by me.

I love the Morning.

2009-05-21T23:40:00.006+01:00

A morning of new memories
A morning of tea
A morning of gazing at what could be
A morning of peace
A morning of possibility and wonder
A morning of happiness
Awaiting to fill the blank photo albums and frames that linger oh so delicately in my heart.
Awaiting to make a life full of memories
A lifetime full of love

At only 17, Rakeem Cunnigham's talent shines... and despite posting this at 23:49, I eagerly await a morning of new memories.

Sarah Seven.

2009-05-15T21:59:00.005+01:00

Blossoming ruffles, delicate fabrics, and flowing layers.

Post lunch with beautiful, soon-to-be married friend in Brighton, I found myself cooing over heavenly, vintage finds in Hope and Harlequin. Naturally, the most perfect dress was slightly too small (not that it was tried on) and the delightful, Pale Olivine clutch bag had an ever so prominent mark upon it (almost certainly chalk).

Instead I willingly torture myself with the divine talents of Sarah Seven.

Her whimsical, ethereal creations leave me wanting to buy her whole Spring collection for 2009.

Glorious.

Note: All imagery from the official website - Sarah Seven.
1. Robin's Egg Dress, 2. Powdered Sugar and 3. The Peaceful Afternoon.

Periphery of the Narrative

2009-05-12T23:32:00.005+01:00

Thoroughly enjoying the exceptionally intricate work of Diem Chau.
'Delicate vignettes of fleeting memory, gesture and form.'
Her ability to create respected curiosity by combining colloquial mediums with common means is just delectable.

Perhaps one more...

Or two.

Reflecting Upon

2009-05-11T10:55:00.005+01:00

Inspired by a verse whilst reflecting upon my weekend

Stunning ephemera
By Francis Scudellari

His life's timing
a frayed patchwork
of ephemeral he
tattered-edge weaves
stitching a mind
full of disconnected dreams
joined to memories

Note: Photo by me. Words from 'Stunning Ephemera' by Francis Scudellari

10 1/2 d

2009-05-03T09:18:00.003+01:00

Ignoring the Expiration Date.
Is it a generation thing?

Personally, I'm a little 'dull' and stick to the rules.
In my experience however, the mothers of this world do not seem bothered at all.
I admire that in a comical way...Otherwise graphical gems like this would never be discovered whilst hunting down ingredients to make Birthday Cupcakes.

It's actually Cochineal Extract.
10 1/2 d.

I decided to avoid the Pink Icing.

Note: Photo by me. Graphical find belongs to a 'Mrs Harper'.

The End of Print?

2009-04-29T23:51:00.003+01:00

Superfluous or Cardinal?
A fashionable debate it seems.

Even Russell Crowe as Cal McAffrey in 'State of Play' fights passionately for what is undeniably categorised as an "Old-School" yet treasured technique.
The final credits detailing the Newspaper production process was, for me, the only part that encouraged intrigue.

I find myself wrought with emotionally biased opinion vs. realistic optimism.
I love print. I would much prefer to physically turn printed newsprint than stare at a far too familiar screen.
My working life has become reliant on the digital kind and when Mac-less, I quietly pine. The one thing that takes me away from this chosen obsession is printed surface matter.
The smell, colour, texture and sound.

It is clear that drastic events around the world are beginning to take place in reference to its destruction and I completely agree that at times, it is superfluous. However, yet again, media-types seem to be "missing the point".
Not everyone wants/can afford to own a computer. Why should this audience not be reached?
There are complaints a plenty in reference to Designers designing for Designers so is it acceptable for this to remain an issue?

Instead of supporting the paparazzi bloggers of this world by keeping stum, digital diplomats need to join forces and fight for the audiences that do not follow the crowd or indeed cannot.

The diplomat in me craves balance.
It's achievable, I know it is.

Prosecution.
Defence.

Note: Imagery with thanks to Jennifer Daniel and Erin Sparling.

Space: With Courage I Flourish and Let Go of Fear

2009-04-20T18:11:00.009+01:00

The pressure for success can be a strain,
when your best is expected, but you feel like you’re failing.

And you know that you’re capable,
but for some reason you’re stalling.

Trying to live up to the expectations of your friends and peers
But the higher they place you,
the worse your fears and harder the fall is.

The doubt of others can sometimes be best
When trying to achieve, it becomes a test.

To prove them wrong without the pressure of success.

Being expected to fail gives you something to prove
With no reputation you’re not likely to lose it.

It doesn’t matter who’s on your side or who wants to see you fall
The fear of failing or even success can be within us all.
With courage you flourish and let go of the fear
Finally living up to the expectations of your friends and peers.

Today I commit to my website.
My illustrations.
My career.

Social networking shall be postponed...
For one week only.

Poem by Mark O'Hara
Photograph: 'The Field' by Gary Issacs

A Love Affair with 'Polaroid'

2009-04-14T16:01:00.010+01:00

The end is nigh.
A small pang of hope plus welcomed denial makes for a passionate, rekindled love affair with my Polaroid camera.

Heartache was unmistakeably evident for most post February 8th 2008, when the Polaroid corporation announced Land's marvellous invention would walk its very own Green Mile; final execution September 2009.
Emotional pain can be ignored though and, in true Miss Domm style, I did just that. Polaroid sat happily on the 'special' shelf (alongside the Happy Birthday Plant and Dictionary of Hieroglyphics) blissfully unaware of its impending fate and until now has rarely seen the light of day.
Why I did not jump at the chance to gloriously protest by subjecting objects of interest to continuous intrusion, I cannot directly say. Call it circumstantial distraction. In other words selective hearing.

Still, I now find myself in a tricky and somewhat sad predicament. A few points to consider:

September is less that five months away.
Packs, although available, are relatively expensive.
It is difficult to foresee actual expiration date when ordering online.
Inordinate opportunities for Polaroid usage are currently more apparent, inevitably due to panic, could equal wastage.

Yet, when I find imagery that captures the true quality and heart of a Polaroid and its spectator I cannot resist the urge to fill the fridge and carefully select my colour board imagery.

For me, It's all about the colour and light.

What you see is not what you get, which is exactly why I will find it hard to resort to the likes of the Pogo . It might well 'spit out mini 2x3in snaps in less than a minute' but my Love Affair started through my obsession with spontaneous colour. Inspiration soars through the unknown. Taking away the control that we now have through digital will lead and has led to happy mistakes, avenues that introduce the undiscovered medium(s).

A little mystery never hurt anyone.

Dear Polaroid,
True love doesn't just happen, it is developed and created.
It's time to enjoy some time together and create some wonderful memories.

Note: Gorgeous, sublime imagery courtesy of Whateverlife.

Feel pretty. Wear Ban.do

2009-04-12T13:32:00.020+01:00

Fabulous, glorious, enviable Headwear.
I am in awe.
Not one to shy away from the over-zealous corsage...

Meet Ban.Do.

A delightful empire for the Femme Sheek lovers of this world, thankfully shared by two stylists from Los Angeles. Yay! Whilst exploring one of my favourite sites Peonies and Polaroid I stumbled across another Blog and officially fell in love with the fun stuff on offer to decorate one's head.

1. A Feathery Fantastic?
2. A Honeymoon in Hawaii?
3. Maybe She's a Speakeasy?

Decisions, decisions.

One thing is certain - I need not get married in order to lavishly commit to the cause. Oh no. Instead I shall find the most splendid form of expression through Headwear for those semi-dull moments in life.
Ah, the little things.
Now to find those spare pennies wherever they may be.

Do have a look.

Note: All imagery from the utterly breathtaking Ban.do bar Image 3, taken by me.

'Marriage a la Mode-l'

2009-04-10T15:19:00.017+01:00

I married a Model: Droo Launay

As one who has spent the greater part of his life in this world behind the velvet curtain -
where the 'roll on' and 'bra' is the national costume and the numbers 34, 21, 34
the magic combination that spells success,
I assure you it takes a man of courage and with a great sense of humour
to marry into this world that for him is as far removed from reality as Mars.'

'That Droo Launay has both in abundance is proved by this wickedly observant pictorial record of 'marriage a la mode-l'.

A gift.
An old, treasured ensemble.
I could not have put it better myself.

Note: Words by Digby Morton, 1957. Published in 1957 by Macdonald & Co. (Publishers Ltd). London.
Illustrations by Droo Launay and imagery taken by me.

As promised. Introducing...

2009-04-09T14:24:00.034+01:00

Snippets of the Day
Pimms on the lawn, delicate Ranunculus, admirable footwear and lashings of Polaroids
A somewhat impeccable Spring Wedding

...

Note: Photographs and Invitation by me. Fabulous polaroid taken by Holly Rose Carter.

Love: Temporary insanity

2009-04-05T19:02:00.031+01:00

Apparently though, according to Ambrose Bierce, 'curable by marriage'.

04.04.09
I do believe I have reached a point in my life whereby those around me are making an effort and are attempting to grow up. Three weddings last year and three again for 2009. The couples in question are not just associates who wish to make up the numbers (or at least I hope not) but instead very good friends who have asked me to be involved in their special day one way or another.

My involvement instigates the following.
1. Stress
2. Permanent damage
3. Welcomed humiliation

Stressful?
Sometimes. Bridesmaid is actually code for Wedding Planner, Caterer, Events Coordinator and Seamstress. Not forgetting Superwomen having spectacularly sprinted down Castle stairways in 4-inch heels in order to decorate a boat in ten minutes before the guests gracefully made their way to the harbour.

Damaging?
Most definitely in terms of health. At the time it seems perfectly acceptable to devour all cake related goodies in order to soak up the alcohol. However, when photographic evidence is humorously waved in front of you... that is when you introduce the identical twin.

Rewarding?
Yes. Tearful mentions and warm gratitude in speeches can only help to warm the heart and make one realise that all the sweat, blood and copious coffee consumption was worth it.

Yesterday my very close friend and colleague Mark married his Sophie and the whole day was effortless. The theme was very English Country and much to my delight I was asked to design a print that would run throughout the day - from the invites right through to bespoke cravats.
Despite helping to create the website, I did seem to miss the very small print detailing a Barn Dance extravaganza and that those who 'have problems walking in high heels' ought to bring some flat shoes for the dancing.

Funnily enough I was not alone. 3-4 inch heel clad ladies attacked the dance floor in force and flats were left hobbling after the first round.
Pictures to follow.

Note: Illustration by me.

The '.'

2009-04-02T22:32:00.031+01:00

Whilst I gleefully reward myself with a few glasses of wine (for actually starting something that has been topic of discussion for over a month now) I don't really think that I can state what the point of my blog is or will be. That's fine though. I'm happy. I'm happy because for once in my life I am going to "get on with it" and ignore any imperfection... which is an enormous achievement for those who know me. I'm a perfectionist which to some extent makes me a procrastinator.

I like to share, have many wonderful and talented friends who constantly inspire me, and do openly admit to talking a little too much. So, what harm can blogging do?
This will hopefully become, what can only be described as, a Creative Conveyor Belt for me and those who stumble across it.

Prolific chit-chat from a lady in love with colour.

Note: Illustration inspired by Henry Selik's Coraline and the fabulous Button Catalogue Poster.