Olive Farm

Nappies, shoots & getaways.

2010-12-09T12:57:00.000+08:00

With babies due date fast approaching I've been working overtime to get orders out and organising the house in anticipation of their arrival. Despite being kid people, Hubs and i are often still at a complete lost on what to get and how much of. I mean 5 boxes of newborn diapers is enough right? Considering each box contains 108 diapers... argh! We don't know!

We've packed and repacked the hospital bags over and over again as it seems first-time-parent nerves have definitely been lurking bout the house. Strangely enough the one thing i'm not nervous about is delivering the babies. Sure like most women i've heard the horror stories that come with the experience such as the mind blowing pain, the accidental pooping & heaven forbid, tearing (yikes!) but i figured the female body was designed for this and as painful as i'm sure it will be, at the end of the day - I'll be okay.

On top of all this I still have bridal orders to fulfill & just last weekend i did my last Olive Farm shoot with my sis before she leaves for overseas. It was a fantastic day & I had an awesome team of people helping. Here are some sneak peaks of the shoot -

Once Rin has finished editing the pics I'll list them in my store, til then it's back to bridal orders & preparing for a much needed 'sisters only' getaway this weekend to Margaret River. We figured with so much happening, Rin moving, me having babies it was well overdue & i'm super excited to be going.

Hope you have a super fun filled weekend too =) I promise to take lots of pics!

{Maternity Shoot Sneak Peak}

2010-11-24T21:29:00.000+08:00

As mentioned in my previous post Hubs and I had a maternity shoot with my talented photographer sister Rin, from Rin Nelson Photography. We decided on a beach shoot since it's summer in Perth & as gorgeous as the sky was we didn't count it would be sooooo windy. Still we battled through and managed to get some really great shots with minimum distractions due to the beach being pretty secluded.

Here's a sneak peak of the shoot =) I'll be doing another one in a few weeks when i go on a road trip to Margaret River with all 3 of my sisters. Did i mention how awesome it is to have a photographer as a sister? hehe

Me with the twins =)

134 days

2010-11-23T11:00:00.000+08:00

Yes can you believe it's been 134 days since my last post? It actually feels longer for me because so much has happened in that time. Just to give you a brief recap, some of the many things that took place are -

1. Hubs and I attended 4 weddings in a span of 6 weeks
2. I played tour guide to many rellies from overseas
3. I created some lovely pieces for a fashion show which was so. much. FUN!
4. Unfortunately our family lost a loved one =(
5. My older sis Rin (the photographer) announced that she & her family will be moving to Abu Dhabi in March next year
And the biggest reason for my disappearance.....
6. Hub & I are expecting twin girls early next year! Yes you read correctly =) I'm currently 25 weeks pregnant with twin girls!

I never thought being pregnant would consume so much of my time but it has, especially because I had AWFUL morning sickness for the first 5 months which left me exhausted and completely wiped out most days. Many times i wanted to blog about the pregnancy but some days it was a struggle just to get out of bed and have a shower, let alone turn on the computer. Thankfully the worst has passed and my energy levels are almost back to what they were before (in fact this arvo i'm doing my maternity shoot with my sis, yay!).

I'll endeavor to write more in detail about some of the things that happened in the last 134 days & include pics, but for now this is just me letting you know i'm still alive & i haven't forgotten about you =)

chat soon xoxo

{Baby Love}

2010-07-12T13:19:00.000+08:00

I'm supposed to be finishing off pieces for this weekends Made On The Left market but i couldn't resist posting up these pics my sister just sent me of a shoot she did a few weeks ago. It was for a blue eyed, ginger haired 7 month baby girl who was sooo scrumptious and friendly which made her the perfect subject to shoot. I created a piece for her and she wore it proudly, just lovely! I can't wait for future shoots with my sis, a few big projects in the mix which we're still working out the kinks before we reveal them. I know i've said this before but it is soooo awesome having a photographer in the family hehe Check out more of my sis's work at her facebook fanpage.

Fallen off the edge of the world

2010-07-09T17:24:00.000+08:00

Oh blog, how i've missed thee.

The last few weeks have been a complete whirlwind for me. Soooo many projects in the works and of course hardly enough time for anything else, especially blogging. Aside from Upmarket (which i promise to write about soon & post pics), I have orders to fulfill, the Made On The Left market which is happening this weekend and not only am I helping out with the production of a fashion show but I'm also creating some pieces for part of the collection. Pheeewww! I've promised to give myself a nice healthy break at the end of all this but til then it's all go, go, go! I hardly see my hubby nowadays =(

I will be back with pics and will go into more details about the exciting things happening at Olive Farm but for now i have to get back to sewing hehe

See you soon *muoah*

Meet the artist - Bec from B.H.O

2010-06-21T12:13:00.000+08:00

Fortunately for me Perth has a group of talented crafty women who catch up once in a while to share stories, advice and fill our tummies with yummy food hehe We support each other at markets, help one another whenever we can, it's fantastic!

I hope to feature some of these ladies whom have shown much support and encouragement to other fellow designers, starting with Bec from B.H.O. I sent Bec a few questions to give you an insight on her life as a designer.

1. What inspired you to create your own business?

This never started out as a business for me. My eldest started kindy and for 6 months I wasn't sure what to do with myself and then I started sewing again after having a long time off. I did my first market in July of 2009 and it was a hit! Out of 20 bags and 10 wallets I created, I came home with 4 bags and 3 wallets, a pocket full of cash and with demands for more. I could not believe it!

2. Describe a typical working day for you?

Get up and have the desperate cup of tea, get my 5 year old off to school, check the mail box and head home to clean and hopefully find some time to either get inspired or create. Pick up Sydney and cook dinner, put the kids to bed around 7.30 and well that's when the madness starts. Sometimes I'll sew til 1am, other times I will give up by 9pm. I keep my lil one, who is about to turn 3, into daycare 2 days a week which are also my sewing/organising days.

3. Where does you inspiration come from?

I have always loved a wide range of fabric, from retro linens to Amy Butlers Designer cottons. I am attracted by the fabrics, clashing colours and functionality. Most of my inspiration comes from "I want something that does this!!", then I make it and hopefully someone else will love it too.

4. What advice can you offer others starting off?

As an avid market seller (I'm not a fan of online selling) I have discovered the hard way that there are good and bad markets. Don't be discouraged if things don't go well. It could be nothing to do with you, the market may not suit you. One of the biggest mistakes I made starting out was I made my prices too cheap!! Do not underestimate yourself and the quality of your products. Handmade items are not longer what your Mother makes, it is unique and uber cool!!

5. Where to you hope to be in 5 years?

I would love to see B.H.O as a business. When both of my children are at school I would certainly love to pursue this as more than a hobby. I would like to see myself in more stores. I am in one over east in Wollongong and I'm certainly aiming for more.

Reversable and washable bags!

Hot leather coin purses that can fit both cards and coins! I've got one in turquoise!

Check out Bec's gorgeous handmade bags this weekend at Perth Upmarket, as well as Face Book and her Etsy store.

{Heaven}

2010-06-20T23:59:00.000+08:00

** Image via Style Me Pretty

Recovering from Bali bliss

2010-06-12T15:44:00.001+08:00

It's been about a week since Hubs, friends and I came home from 8 lovely days in Bali (yes, Bali again! It's starting to feel like a 2nd home hehe) and body is still on holiday mode. For some reason time completely slowed down when we were over there and now that we're back i know i need to get focused for the busy months ahead but i'm recovering from being toooo relaxed.

This time around we hired a private villa with our own swimming pool, kitchen and living/dining room. I couldn't believe how massive the place was, there was sooo much space and privacy. I loved it and would recommend it to anyone going over there. Plus the food! arghhh my tummy still grumbles over the delicious food we had. Okies enough talk, here's some photos -

We stayed at Villa Arjuna in Seminyak right on famous Jalan Laksmana with all the popular restaurants.

Gorgeous Cafe Bali which served yummy food in an oh-so-chic environment. I couldn't believe there was even a little lap pool at the back of the restaurant. Thanks Laura for the recommendation =)

I mentioned we had a lot of delicious meals right? hehe The variety of food in Bali is fantastic. One night we had seafood, then Japanese, then Italian, then local Indonesian, and it kept changing every night!

This might be hard to believe but on one of the nights we went to see Boy George on Kuta beach. Some of us were a bit hesitant about going but the tickets were only $20aud and we knew there were other acts on the night including a fashion show, cabaret, dj's and bands. It was sooo awesome coz he wasn't actually singing but dj'ing! Dancing to cool tunes, barefooted on the beach with friends was one of the highlights of the trip, especially when it lightly started to drizzle rain on us =)

I had such an awesome time and loved i could share my experience with good friends. Hubby and i are eager to go back tho we probably should explore other parts of the world hehe We'll see, so much going on with Olive Farm and life in general but i'll save that for another post *wink*

Olive Farm at June Upmarket!

2010-05-28T17:14:00.000+08:00

Come say hello to me and hubby at the June Upmarket at UWA! This time Upmarket is combining with Junior Upmarket making it the biggest event thus so far. There will be so many new retailers and i can't wait! I've been busy keeping up with orders and creating new designs to showcase this June, as well as recreating Olive Farm bestsellers. I've had the idea of making these gorgeous bows for a while now and i just love the end result. I can't wait to see the response! More new designs to come - stay tuned =)

{Not just for little girls}

Project Etsy Wedding - Invitations

2010-05-24T15:41:00.000+08:00

Awesome invitations created from etsy store VO Handmade. I think they will do nicely for the Maiko/Steller wedding =)

Etsy store - VO Handmade

Quantity - 50 invites for couples and single guests

Price - $2.90 per invite including envelope

Total cost - $145 USD

Amore No. 20 - Stamp Sets

2010-05-23T02:46:00.000+08:00

Running your own business from home sometimes means you have to find innovative ways to help market your products and rubber stamps have been a God send in the packaging department. I stamp my cards, carry bags, tags.... you name it! It's more affordable than printing and with so many great designs to choose from why wouldn't you?

Here are some of my favourite stores ~ (from top to bottom)
- Kodomo Petite Musee Tin Stamp Set from J Flair Goods
- Margaret Stamp Set and Japanese Sewing set from Pretty Tape *they also have awesome tapes as the names suggests hehe*
- Angle Stamp Set from Karaku

{Feeling the love}

2010-05-18T22:19:00.002+08:00

The last few days I've been fortunate enough to appear on a couple of blogs and on the Made It newsletter. I've also been receiving the warmest words of encouragement from clients and fans. It's so lovely to feel supported in what you do and i just hope it keeps on coming =)

I've also been working on some new additions to my store. I've been waiting for really good weather before taking pictures, fingers crossed for tomorrow. I'm trying to fill my store with new goodies before I go on my trip in a few weeks. Hubby is bringing his laptop tho so I'll still be able to stay in touch =)

Images

- Made It Newsletter

- Gray Boulevard

- Jennifer Garry

{Inspiration} Julie Stegner for Vogue Russia

2010-05-17T11:56:00.001+08:00

Gosh these photos just make me feel all kinds of wonderful. Great way to start the week =)

Images from Trendnista

{Etsy Wedding Challenge}

2010-05-13T15:46:00.001+08:00

I was talking to one of my girlfriends yesterday about Etsy and all the amazing things you can find. Haven't really gone on the site before she was doubtful, yet i insisted and even went as far as saying 'you could even plan a whole wedding from etsy alone!' which she replied 'Yeah, whatever!'. So that's the challenge. Can you plan a wedding from etsy? of course minus some details like venue, music, groom hehe

From now on I'm going to be planning an imaginary wedding as much to my ability, using only items i find on etsy. To make it a little more realistic i'll give myself a brief, budget and time line. From the many hours already spent browsing i'm confident i can plan one hell of a shindig and prove my friend wrong hehe

Brief - Operation project wedding

Couple - Lilly Maiko and Thomas Steller

Wedding date - Saturday 31st July 2010 (it's winter in Perth)

Theme - Quirky, fun and intimate

Colours - Blues/Greens

Wedding Party - 2 bridesmaids/ 2 groomsmen

Guest - 80 people

Budget - $15,000 AUD (remember etsy is in USD so this might be tricky)

I'll also be including some handy DIY from my favourite sites to help others planning their big day.

At the very least i hope to have fun with this project and get to know my fellow etsians.

Wish me luck =)

image By the super talented Elizabeth Messina from KISS THE GROOM

Amore No.19 - Holly Stalder

2010-05-10T00:12:00.001+08:00

Although I've been married for a few years now, being in the industry I'm in, I still spend a lot of my spare time researching weddings and anything to do with them. Following the work of other fellow designers, discovering new fabrics and techniques, finding out the latest themes, colours etc If I don't have any orders to fill and my supplies are up I could spend hours going through the collections of other designers 'oooohhhing' and 'aaahhhing' over their gorgeous works. I believe its an important part of running a business, knowing what others are doing and using it as motivation, inspiration and just appreciating the company of people your in.

I especially have a soft spot for independent designers like Holly Stalder. With her love of vintage fabrics and her organic way of assembling stunning one of a kind pieces for brides my heart just gushes with delight. She is the kind of designer I would love to collaborate with and spend hours gabbing with over tea and scones. Check out her etsy store and I bet you'll fall in love just like I did =)

{images from Holly Stalder}

{New additons} Not just for the brides!

2010-05-08T00:45:00.002+08:00

{Ava}

{Jean}

{Clair}

I recently added some new additions to my etsy store. I've been experimenting with new techniques and working with different fabrics to give you these gorgeous blooms. I wanted to inject more colours in my collections giving customers more variety and to also include bridesmaids and mother-of-the-bride's pieces. I've also been working on some pieces for grooms but I'm having so much fun at the moment I might put that on hold as i've also got a another big photo shoot coming up, not to mention I'll be going on a buying/mini holiday in a few weeks and a participating in another market in June. Argh so much to do! Can't help but thrive on the adrenalin tho haha

{Sneak Peak}

2010-05-04T13:38:00.004+08:00

Some lovely pieces I've been working on. At the moment my studio is filled with bits of silk, organza, tulle, cotton, chiffon and other lovely fabrics in so many different colours. I love it!

New pieces in store

2010-04-27T21:55:00.009+08:00

Just listed some new pieces in my etsy store & I'm happy with the pics, despite being my own model hehe =) Although I have what you might call 'signature' techniques in my flowers I always try to research different ways to improve my craft. It's such a thrill to discover a new way of doing something and it motivates me to be innovative in my work. Things are just getting bigger and better here at Olive Farm. Very exciting times!

Italiano - Bridal fascinator

Adele

Rosalyn

Olive Farm SALE!

2010-04-24T09:36:00.005+08:00

Between 24th April - 26th April 2010 i'm taking 20-30% off selected items on my Facebook Fanpage. If you ever wanted to own an original Olive Farm piece this is the sale not to miss!

{Shop Update}

2010-04-23T15:37:00.002+08:00

Over the next few days you'll see a few new pieces trickling into my etsy shop. Hopefully the clouds will stay away so i can take more photos =)

Lack of sleep = lack of posts.

2010-04-22T09:43:00.005+08:00

Being a night owl is really taking it's toll on me. I can easily work til 4am and then sleep to just after lunch time to get the full required 8 hours however i know it's not the productive way to do things. Often i miss the necessary sunlight i need to take pictures and cutting my days in half only means i need to rush to the post office and run other errands as soon as i wake up.

So i've been trying this experiment for the last week or so, where i would go to bed (regardless of how tired i am) at the same time as my hubby which is usually around 11.30pm and i would try to fall asleep. Some nights i'm staring at the ceilings for hours, other nights i'm out like a light, usually from a previous night of staring at the ceiling. I don't leave my alarm on and let my body naturally wake up when it's good and ready.

It's taken just over 7 days and i think it's starting to work. I go to bed around midnight, turning off all distractions (like the tv and my comp), and although i still lay there thinking for a while my mind gets tired faster and waking itself at around 9am the next day. I'm hoping to train my body to sleep at 11pm and wake up at 7am so i can have breakfast with Hubby before he goes to work. *crossed fingers*

image from ----> HERE

Dearest Rain

2010-04-11T23:26:00.005+08:00

Tonight i stepped outside for a moment and i felt you nearby. The nights are getting cooler and i'm starting to wear layers to keep warm. Will you be paying us a visit soon? Please do not come back in the same fashion as that nasty storm not too long ago. It was very terrifying and inconvenient with the black out and all. Instead can you please ease us into this winter, slowly and lovingly? I've always preferred you to all the other weather conditions, despite falling sick almost every time you come to visit. I promise to parade around in new winter coats and boots, as well as continue searching for that red umbrella i've vowed to own. I will sip many warm teas and cook as many hearty soups as hubby will allow. I will spend as much time snuggling and prance around the house in the most comfee pj's i can find. I look forward to seeing you and i'll try not to whinge too much when you're finally here.

With love - Liv

image from ---> here

Ohhhhh Zooey!

2010-04-09T13:40:00.005+08:00

Argh! i absolutely adore this girl. She's so cool and hip without all that Hollywood flakiness that follows other celebrities. I love all her movies, loves that she's also a singer and just think she's stunning! The perfect model for Olive Farm, don't you think? hehe

Images from Everything In My Head

{Update}

2010-04-09T13:17:00.003+08:00

Happy Friday everyone! I hope you all have fabulous plans on the weekend. Mine will be spent organising and giving my studio a much needed tidy up. Upmarket was 2 weeks ago and i still have things in boxes. Yikes! Speaking of Upmarket (notice the segway?) i forgot to mentioned i met a lovely chick by the name of Nat who is the designer behind Dizzy Wizzy Designs. She creates fabulous invites and stationary and was kind enough to feature me on her website. I love meeting new people at markets, it's the best place to make contacts and miggle with other creative types.

Also I'm hoping to introduce more colours in my collection. Turquoise, purples, yellow and red will slowly be making more and more appearances in Olive Farm, keep a look out =)

All about being nude

2010-04-08T15:31:00.006+08:00

Christopher Kane Nude Dress & Jasmine De Milo Dress

Ivy Nude Dress & Lavin Nude Dress

Haute Hippe Sequin Tulle Dress & John Rocha Nude Rose Dress

Nowadays there are a lot of dresses out there that doesn't leave much to the imagination and i believe you can look classy without having to bear all. Flirty and fun, the nude dress is such a great dress to own and matched with some killer heals you're ready to hit the town =) I also adore how many variations there are out there and how versatile the colour is. You can wear it to a wedding, high tea with the girls, clubbing to the wee hours or on a romantic date with your man. What ever the occassion i admit i do go gaga over skin tone fabrics hehe

Dresses From
~ Lavin Nude Dress, Ivy Nude Dress, Christopher Kane Nude Dress, Haute Hippe Sequin Nude Dress, John Rocha Nude Rose Dress, Jasmine De Milo Nude Dress

M&M Wedding

2010-04-07T04:28:00.010+08:00

Yesterday Hubby & i attended the very special wedding of our dearest friends Ming & Michelle whom we lovingly refer to as 'the M&M's'. I've known the couple since high school and have a really close friendship with the groom (he was the MC at our wedding). The whole day was filled with love and the laughter of friendship. There's nothing more magical then witnessing the union of two great people. Such a wonderful day =)

Saying 'I do' at Caversham House

Handsome Hubby who filled in for me as i was too croaky for the poem reading.
Notice the boutonniere I made for him? hehe

Mr and Mrs Lim

Gorgeous Decor

Stealing a kiss before cutting the cake.... naaaaawww

Old Friends - 12 years in the making =)

Giggles and Love

Congratulations Guys! We're so happy for the both of you *HUGS*

Amore No.18 - Lou and Lee

2010-04-05T15:44:00.008+08:00

One of the great things about being a designer is knowing that given enough time i pretty much can create my own hair accessories and rarely need to shop for any, unless it's absolutely gobsmacking fantastic that i simply can't resist! Lou and Lee is such a brand.

Their oh-so-darling baby headbands are too cute for words and i know if i ever have a daughter or a little niece i will be buying up a storm of these gorgeous designs. Have you ever seen anything so lovely? I also recommend you jump on their blog, it's a great read with a lot of wonderful stories of her lil mister =)

Indulgences

2010-04-02T13:11:00.006+08:00

Two of my biggest weaknesses combined - turquoise & cupcakes! *sighhhhhh*

images from Polka Dot Bride

Pinch and Spoon

2010-04-01T14:01:00.007+08:00

I'm such a fan of textiles, well obviously since i use it in my designs, however i believe my pieces are still considered conventional by public standards and i find that i'm eager to break free from the mold of what is considered as 'accessories'.

Labels such as 'PINCH AND SPOON' is an example of taking something pure and natural and turning it into modern wearable art pieces. There's an almost holistic approach to the designs which i just love and with creations like these how could you not? Another tick for WA designers =)

images from pinch and spoon

Give away on Face Book!

2010-04-01T11:09:00.005+08:00

Tiffany - Hair piece & brooch

Hi guys, I'm doing another giveaway on my fanpage on Face Book. If you're interested on winning the above piece just hop over to my fanpage and leave a comment letting me know why you love it so much =) The winner will be randomly drawn on Monday 5th April and I'll ship the item to any place in the world for free. Cmonnn you know you want it hehe

With Love,
Liv

Olive Farm at Upmarket!

2010-03-29T12:46:00.012+08:00

My display for the day =)

So another Upmarket has come and gone and this time we were in Winthrop Hall at UWA. I wasn't sure what kind of crowd the new venue would bring and i was pleased to see so many people as well as repeat customers. Yay!

Lots of pretty flowers came out to play!

Unfortunately I had a small chest infection and was coughing like crazy so hubby manned the store most of the day and i didn't expect to see so many friends come by so i went on little walking adventures with them hehe However i made a lot of wedding contacts and met other great participants.

Moi, Lauren and Sarah otherwise known as
Olive Farm, Osier & Tea For Bini

The broken windows from the storm last week =( Still pretty tho.

All in all a great day and big props to the organisers. Hopefully i'll get into the next one in June *crossed fingers* Afterward hubby and i rewarded ourselves with big bowls of yummy soup at Viet Hoa to fill our hungry tummies and hopefully put an end to my illness. I'm feeling much better now =)

Nom, Nom, Nom, Nom.

THE STORM!

2010-03-24T00:06:00.012+08:00

Yesterday afternoon at approx 4pm my home city of Perth, Western Australia was hit with the biggest storm we had seen in over 50 years. After almost 100+ days of no rain the clouds turned dark, lightning & thunder danced in the sky and we got 4 times more rain we usually see in a month in only 2 short hours.

Chaos hit the roads as the storm hit during peak hour traffic and especially with rain bucketing down causing more floods and mudslides than i have ever seen in Perth. To make matters worse hailstones the size of golf balls followed, damaging so many homes and cars. Heaven forbid you were stuck in a flood when the hail stones came.

Most of Perth went without power into the night and only now (more than 24hrs later) our power came back on. Luckily for me i wasn't affected except for the power shortage and being out of touch with the rest of the world for that period of time i escaped all the media and photos of what actually happened until recently.

I was really worried that Upmarket would be canceled because UWA, the venue, was hit pretty hard with mudslides taking out the EDFAA (Education, Fine Arts and Architecture) Library. To think of all those books makes me so sad. However i just got word that it's still on and i'm just finalising on some pieces for the big day.

Before the windows gave out at the Library =(

All those books! *sniffles*

More treasuries and an unwanted cold!

2010-03-22T11:24:00.010+08:00

I've been meaning to write a post on some treasuries i've been lucky enough to be included in. It's funny because most of my etsy customers are from the US and with their season being the opposite of ours (it's autumn here in Australia) i've had many convos about spring colours to potential customers and i find myself asking them 'ahh what colours are in YOUR spring?' hehe

Primrose in the right hand corner.

Louise 2nd from the bottom, middle row.

Also i've been spending a lot of time with my lovely nephews because their mum (the super photographer, Rin Nelson) is busy, busy, busy and we have fun making cards for Uncle Ed, watching movies or feeding the ducks at the pond in front of my house and now i've also caught the youngest one's cold. Arrrgghhhh! With Upmarket this weekend i'm torturing my body with last minute errands and sewing when i should be cuddled in bed with warm tea by my side. So naughty!

The gorgeous nephews who we refer to as
Chicken Little and Mousie =)
Photography from their talented Mummy!

R&R

2010-03-19T11:10:00.008+08:00

Only 1 week before Upmarket and i can tell my body has gone into uber stress mode because i'm already daydreaming of places to go to rest my poor tired self. Sometimes i dream of log cabins somewhere cold but lately i have the urge to wiggle my toes in white sandy beaches & swim in crystal clear waters. Being in Australia you wouldn't think that would be too hard to find however i woke up today to clouds which means autumn has surely arrived and winter is just around the corner.

So today, as i'm sipping warm early grey tea & wearing my comfee trackies, my ideal holiday destination is the Maldives and Huvafen Fushi is where i long to be. With rooms starting at almost $1000 dollars a night in the low season i think it'll be a while til i get to swim in these waters but hey a girl can dream =)

How can you ever feel stressed in a place like this?

images from Mr and Mrs Smith

Dying of envy!

2010-03-17T22:53:00.009+08:00

If ever there was a reason to be jealous of what fame and money can buy - this is it!! (As if we need more reasons) Feast your green eyes on the closets of the rich and famous, styled of course to make sure you walk away slightly overwhelmed and drunk on the flamboyancy which is their daily life.

Oh Nikki, famous by association, i love your wooden floors and your pink coat hangers are a sure giveaway that you're really a girly girl by heart.

Fergie love the ottoman and chandelier peaking above!

Rachel's closet is vintage heaven!

Love how Christina got all dolled up but left her lil one pantless haha
The pink is also a nice touch!

Argh Mariah! Each pair of shoes you own could probably put a child through school for a year and yet still i wanna rampage through your collection. Evil obviously has settled in by this point of the post.

Now i'm off to cry on my hubby's shoulder!

Images from - Nikki's closet, Fergie's closet, Rachel's closet, Christina's closet & Mariah's closet

Food, flowers & love

2010-03-17T15:20:00.009+08:00

I just loaded up these pics and thought i would share them with you =) Just a little tid bit into my life and my 3 favourite things - food, flowers & love!

The scrumptious breakie hubby cooked for me over the weekend.
No boring meals at our house!

Yummy carrot cake at C15 Espresso in Applecross.
Awesome coffee and deserts!

Reminiscing my own Yr 12 Ball, this gorgeous boutonniere was a delight to create! It was custom made with checkers being a requirement. When i get time i'll finally sit down and create some for my store.

This morning my bestie, Laura, moved to Newcastle to be with her boyfriend. As happy as i am for her and the adventure she's about to embark it didn't stop us from crying like two little school girls when it was time to say goodbye. I'm already making plans to visit her and i know we'll speak on the phone all the time however it won't be the same not seeing her almost every week for the last millions of years.

You're such a blessing to have in my life babes and I'll miss you greatly! I have every faith that you will do great things over east and just remember us little people when you're rich & famous =) Love ya!

Oh Miss Wang

2010-03-16T23:47:00.004+08:00

Talk about inspiring! Vera Wang never fails to impress with these gorgeous bib necklaces i just found moments ago. The beading involved is insane!! I only wish i had the patience.

Images from neiman marcus & the gloss

Amore No.17 - Prima Ballerina

2010-03-13T16:39:00.006+08:00

All feels right and my world is at peace when i see gorgeous pics like these. There's something about ballerinas that make my heart sigh with adoration and inspires me to create a tutu of my own. Where in the world i'll ever be able to wear it is beyond me however with gorgeous designs like the ones from Ouma Clothing it makes you believe you can dress and feel like a princess everyday. Go visit Monique's etsy store for more beautiful designs.

images from ---> HERE

Some addictions are good for you.... promise!

2010-03-12T14:16:00.009+08:00

Okies so lately i've been interiors obsessed and can you blame me with pics like these online? While i was studying Interior Decorating i started a ridiculous collection of interior magazines which filled my room to the point where my mum insisted i throw some out so there would be a decent pathway from the door to my bed. I heard what she had to say and then chose to ignore it as any daughter would of done. Now all grown up and married my addiction has been limited to 1 magazine a month and i get through the tough times with hours and hours of scouring the internet for a 'hit'. Sites like Design*Sponge and Decor Pad are my poison and has recently taken over me completely. So be prepared for more to come.... i'm no where near done =)

I bring you this stunning renovated brownstone from the people at The Brooklyn Home Company. Yes start gushing now!

Argh! Love the exposed beams!

The ladder leads to a guest bedroom. Soooo cute!

Could you not just cook all day in this kitchen?
Although, makes you wonder how they get all those dishes and pots & pans up so high on those shelves. I guess that's why man invented ladders. Scary tho.

Oh yes i can definitely picture myself sleeping here =)

Clean, organised and white.... all the best things about a bathroom.

With wood sculpture/designer Fitzhugh Karol and jewellery designer Lyndsay Caleo collaborating with The Brooklyn Home Company on the project could expect anything less than perfection? I seriously doubt it.

Images from Design*Sponge

Indulging my girly side

2010-03-11T11:38:00.004+08:00

Lately i've been on the hunt for inspirational interiors. I think it goes in hand with house hunting which is what hubby and i've been doing. Seeing that hubby is clueless when it comes to decorating (2 books and a tea cup on the bedside table doesn't count babes) i figured i'll take the reigns on this and build up a wish list. Now if only i can stick to one style.... this is going to be hard.

images from decor pad and proper hunt

Overtaken by blooms

2010-03-10T13:40:00.003+08:00

I finally found my camera charger and was able to take some pics of the many handmade flowers taking over my studio at the moment. I'm creating as many as i can before i lose momentum which is always bound to happen. I've also made this gorgeous turquoise felt rose which will be a new addition to Olive Farm. I'm so excited.... times a ticking.

Feeling Turquoise

2010-03-10T01:38:00.008+08:00

Being my other favourite colour at the moment (i'm a hardcore PINK fan) i couldn't resist searching the net for turquoise interiors. As much as i love the colour i doubt i could live in a house where every room had the same colour theme going through it. Still i'm totally in love with the turquoise head board... i wonder if i can convince hubby for a change... hmmm.

{images from}
Living & Bedroom - Maureen Lynne
Dining - My Home Ideas
Kitchen - Apartment Therapy
Bathroom - Point Click Home

Hooray for Hollywood!

2010-03-09T18:44:00.011+08:00

To continue my rant about the Oscars i've come up with my top picks of the night. Was disappointed not to see Anne Hathaway there =( Okies it's safe to assume i'm totally in love with the girl, however there were other young starlets looking fab on the red carpet.

So in no particular order ~

Oh Sandra, don't you just look gorgeous in this Marchesa gown. The pop of colour on the lips were a great touch and you know bout my weakness with eccentric beading! This just works for me =) I'm glad she won!

This dress grew on me the more i looked at it. With so many solid colours at the Oscars it was almost a relief to see someone where a patterned print. Rachel looks so darling in a strapless Elie Saab Spring 2010 gown with a sweetheart neckline. I like that she chose minimum accessories that didn't compete with the dress and makes her look that much more sophisticated!

I haven't seen much of Cameron Diaz lately and seeing her all dolled up for the Oscars was just a reminder of how beautiful she is. Dressed in a Oscar de la Renta Fall 2010 gown she completely glowed. I love that she wore her hair down rather than up which soften her look even more.

Maggie is always so cool and not afraid to try something different which is one of the reasons why i just love her. Here she wears Dries van Noten strapless dress and looking stunning if i do say so myself. I couldn't resist using a pic with her gorgeous bro Jake! Argh! i just love him! (sorry baby)

In my opinion Penelope Cruz looked at least 10 years younger on screen last night. There were some mixed reviews online about her dress chose but i simply love it! She looked absolutely breathtaking in this burgundy strapless Donna Karan gown.

Such beautiful women *siiigggghhhhh*

Images from Red Carpet Fashion Awards & Go Fug Yourself

{Update & another Treasury}

2010-03-08T14:43:00.005+08:00

Woohoo! Made it into another Treasury by Little Grass =) Love the theme as pink is one of my favourite colours.

Louise from the Country Allure collection

Also I've been super busy preparing for Upmarket, only 3 weeks to go! argh! My studio is filled with all these gorgeous handmade blossoms & blooms for the big day and there's scraps of fabric EVERYWHERE! I wanted to take a photo however i seem to have misplaced my camera battery charger under all this mess. I'll leave you with a preview of a new goodie i will be introducing at Upmarket. Hope you can make it down =)

Oh-so-darling right?

Amore No.16 - Aurelio Costarella

2010-03-08T00:04:00.003+08:00

Western Australian based designer Aurelio Costarella is in a word - sensational. With his use of different fabrics to his ever inspiring detailing i simply swoon whenever i see his designs. Being a budding *ahem* designer myself i am motivated by those who have taken the journey before me and have come out on the other end telling tales of hard work, tears and success.

Below are some pics of his 2010 Spring/Summer collection ~

What did i say? - sensational!

** More WA/Aussie designers to be featured on Olive Farm Blog =)

images from ---> HERE

Oscars

2010-03-07T22:42:00.009+08:00

Like most people i know i watch the Oscars for one thing - FASHION! Sure, sure there's some mild interest on the awards ceremony itself especially when it's the big awards like best movie, actor etc, however i mostly spend my time oogling at the celebrities all dolled up and looking their supposed best. Although i do voice out my opinions about the less than favoured fashion choices of some celebrities to my husband i will not here. There's no point focusing on negativity when i can go on an on about my favourite picks of the night.

With the 2010 Oscars less than 24 hrs away i'm giddy with excitement over what we'll see on the red carpet. Apparently from this morning news we are to expect a lot of vintage glamour/old Hollywood come in which is oh so fabulous!

And with that in mind i thought i go back a year and post my top 3 picks from last years Oscars.

Jennifer Aniston smashed it out of the park with this cream strapless Valentino number. She looked so youthful and in my opinion glowed!

Argh! Natalie Portman why are you soooo stunning? Her beauty is so timeless and i loved this colour on her. She chose to wear a strapless Rodarte dress and although it's not as out there as some others the fact that she can still pull off a rather 'simple' design wows me.

I was mid way in conversation with my hubby when i stopped and gawked at this dress. Anne Hathaway looked simply radiant & i couldn't keep my eyes off her. Dressed in a strapless (was that the stlye that year?) Armani Prive encrusted dress she definitely got my vote for best dressed on the night. I can't wait to see what she wears this year!

images via splendicity

Couldn't Resist

2010-03-04T14:29:00.004+08:00

too tempting!

I should be working on Upmarket and i know i mentioned finishing off one book before starting on another but when i saw this beauty at BIG W today for only $19.65 i couldn't resist. So after i press publish i'm making myself a nice cup of tea and snuggling on my couch with Elizabeth Gilbert's - Committed *siiiiggggghhhhh*

See you in a few hours =)

For you

2010-03-02T02:30:00.005+08:00

It's 2.30am and i should be sleeping but instead i'm writing this post. I figured because i'm awake there must be some people out there who is also fighting insomnia. Since starting Olive Farm i have discovered that creativity mostly hits me at night when the world is quiet, tho i usually play music while i work, and because of that my sleeping habits are weird. I can't remember the last time i slept before 11pm.

So for all those burning the midnight oil i thought this might put a smile on your face.

I mean who doesn't like receiving flowers? even at 2.30am!

images from ---> Shana Rae

Holiday Attire

2010-02-28T22:57:00.008+08:00

image via apartment #34

Since booking my holiday/buying trip i've been drawn to 'holiday attire' and i'm particular attracted to dresses that can be dressed up and down with a few minor adjustments. Don't you think this dress fits the bill? I especially heart the colour!

Some must have accessories while on holiday =)

Jeweled flats

Alexander Wang bag & Johara Necklace

Pretty Anne in turquoise

2010-02-27T01:29:00.004+08:00

Argh! isn't Anne Hathaway simply stunning in this pic? I absolutely adore her! She's made so many great film choices and her career is just getting bigger and better. There are some actors who's films i just have to watch regardless of it's context and she is one. Uber talented and gorgeous she's definitely on the wish list of celebrities to dress =)

Simplicity

2010-02-26T17:31:00.002+08:00

Sometimes it's the most simple things that make my day =)

Image from ---> HERE

Amore No.15 - CB Smith Clothbound Series

2010-02-26T02:38:00.003+08:00

Argh!! too gorgeous!!

One of my most favourite self indulgent thing to do is cuddle up with a good book and get lost in the written world. I've always believed that reading is the best form of exercise for my mind and is a huge contributor to my creative side, constantly encouraging my imagination to come alive.

When i first saw the amazing works of senior cover designer at Penguin Book, Coralie Bickford-Smith, clothbound series i stopped dead in my tracks and drooled! They were such eye candy and i couldn't take it! It took Hubby hard convincing that i didn't need another book, especially since i'm still working on 'The Historian' by Elizabeth Kostova and i usually have a strict policy about NOT buying another book until I've finished the last one.

Well as soon as i'm finished i'm running straight to Austen's 'Pride and Prejudice', a book i've ready once a year since i first discovered it at 16. I want to start collecting all the clothbound series and just 'oooh' and 'aaahh' over them.

I'm sure Hubby will think i've gone nuts!

Image via here

One can only dream

2010-02-22T15:55:00.006+08:00

Love them or hate them you have to admit that fashion and celebrities go hand in hand. Designers from all corners of the world scurry around like mice to dress all the big names in Hollywood during award season. I am no exception haha

Just like all budding designers out there, I too would love the opportunity to have a big name celebrity wear one of my pieces. Before you think 'pppfffttt whatever girl!' hey a person can dream and in that mindset of achieving great things i've decided to create another section of my blog dedicated to the celebrities i would cry oceans of tears over if i ever knew they wore one of my pieces.

Starting with the lovely, adorable Taylor Swift!

Image via here

This girl is so incredibly gorgeous and talented it's hard to believe she's only 21!! With her luscious blonde locks and killer style on red carpets i would definitely loose my mind if she wore an Olive Farm piece haha

And the winner is .....

2010-02-22T10:43:00.003+08:00

'Country Allure' by Fatima Syaid! Congratulations on winning the 'Name this shoot' competition.

So many people entered on FB and i was truly overwhelmed with the response. To be fair i asked 4 other people to review the list of entries and place a vote on which name they though suited the pics and went well with the collection. Pieces from the Country Allure shoot will be coming into my etsy store in the next few days however if you wanted a sneak peak head to my face book fanpage =)

Amore No.14 - Vintage brooch bouquets

2010-02-18T23:56:00.004+08:00

Pictures pretty much speak for themselves, right? *sigggghhhh*

images via {this is glamorous}

Another Treasury Feature!

2010-02-16T21:26:00.006+08:00

English Rose 1st on the 3rd row. Get -----> HERE

Yay! i got into another etsy treasury, this time by etsian janeandavis who also makes funky hairpieces and jewelry. it's always nice to be noticed, wouldn't you say?

{Olive Farm Update}

2010-02-12T15:23:00.003+08:00

For those out there who read this blog, first of all thank you for your support and i will do my best keeping you updated on the happenings of Olive Farm as well as little tid bits here and there about moi.

Olive Farm will be participating in Upmarket @UWA on the 28th March so aside from filling in orders I'm kept busy creating enough products to cater the large crowd Upmarket brings. As previously mentioned in an older post i sold out on some popular items and as wonderful as that feels i want to make sure i have enough products this time round.

I will also be going to Bali on a buying trip/holiday in May with Hubby and a few friends. Last time i was there i picked up some gorgeous silks and i plan to buy more! Also being Indonesian helps (slightly) as communication isn't too much of an issue however i also value how hardworking the Balinese are and the craftsmanship that goes into their work.

I have a HUGE project in June which will be kept under wraps until details are figured out but i'm super excited. It will be my biggest shoot yet, working with multiple models and in a studio this time!

So while this is all happening I'll endeavor to keep you all up to date and i'll continue on adding new pieces and info on new ideas, like these gorgeous flower shoe clips i've started making =) Have a FABULOUS weekend!

{Name The Shoot Competition}

2010-02-05T23:30:00.006+08:00

Recently there was another Olive Farm photo shoot (have i ever mention how awesome it is to have a sister who is a photographer?) and i'm having a little trouble coming up with a name for the shoot. Usually the brain is switched on and i have several ideas before the first pic however i thought i would ask help from my FACEBOOK fans =)

Come up with an inspirational and creative name for this shoot for the chance to win a hairpiece/brooch from this collection valued at over $45. Just jump on my fanpage and write a comment or for the shy people out there drop me an email at olivefarm@live.com.au

You can enter as many times as you want and to help judge the competition it would be great if you leave a small reason why you've chosen that name.

A sneak preview to help the creative juices =)

Winner will be announced on 21st February and free shipping is included! woo hoo!

Good Luck to all my fans!

XX Liv

M&M Cookies

2010-01-26T09:03:00.002+08:00

I told you i was in trouble hehe Last night when i should of been finishing some pieces i decided to bake these babies instead.... from scratch. Armed with a recipe from Milk and Honey Cafe i was surprised how quick and easy it was to make the cookies. Unfortunately Hubby had already gone to bed however it was the first thing he ate for breakfast haha

I figure i would ease myself into the baking from mastering the perfect cookie to creating scrumptious cupcakes. Baby steps!

Yummy M&M Cookies

from Milk and Honey Cafe
makes 3 dozen

ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 cups mini or regular m&ms

directions

1.Preheat the oven to 325F. Grease cookie sheets or line with parchment paper.
2. Sift together the flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, cream together the melted butter, brown sugar and white sugar until well blended. Beat in the vanilla, egg, and egg yolk until light and creamy. Mix in the sifted ingredients until just blended. Stir in the chocolate chips by hand using a wooden spoon. Drop cookie dough 1/4 cup at a time onto the prepared cookie sheets. Cookies should be about 3 inches apart.
4. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are lightly toasted. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Amore 13 - Cupcake Heaven

2010-01-24T01:00:00.005+08:00

A little tid bit about moi - i have the worst weakness for anything sweet, especially if it comes in cake form. My poison.... cupcakes! I swear i'm an addict! I just can't say no despite my best effort to stay away but how can anyone stay away from these delicious pretty things. They're so cute and scrumptious and girly and i can go on and on.... *sighhhhhhh*

As soon as my eyes drifted over to the Milk and Honey Cafe blog i knew i was in serious trouble. Here is a chick who actual bakes these little darlings (plus other treats) and is kind enough to show us how. Gosh if it wasn't 1am I would probably head over to the shops now and buy nobs and nobs of butter.

My heart is racing, my tummy grumbling, my mouth practically drooling in anticipation for the these goodies. I can't wait to start and with pics like these can you really blame me?

images via milk and honey blog

Oh yes, i'm sooooo in trouble!

I heart getting older!

2010-01-23T00:26:00.005+08:00

Some people freak out with just the mention of turning older, some can't bring themselves to admit their age but me.... i love my birthdays. It feels like New Years all over and as i countdown to midnight i know my slate is being wiped clean and i come out on the other side relaxed, happy, wiser and well.... older =)

Today I'm 29! And for the first time since being together hubby isn't here to celebrate with me. The beautiful man is volunteering as a camp facilitator for Rotary Youth and i haven't seen him for 6 days now. He'll be back in less than 48hrs and I'm eager to smother him with hugs & kisses (mushy i know) I however was not alone today. I spent the day with my lil sis and then dined with my dearest girlfriends, followed by the movie 'Nine'.

It was the kind of get together where everyone is laughing uncontrollably, words of praise & joy are thrown about effortlessly. All in all, we were all so happy and although hubby wasn't around to see me turn 29, when I'm an old woman and look back over the years, I will remember being surrounded by absolute love on this particular birthday.

ps - I was incredibly inspired from 'Nine' and as i was watching it i was mentally sketching pieces in my head hehe Can't wait to start =)

{In The Bedroom} new to shop!

2010-01-21T15:31:00.012+08:00

{Amore} Go ----> HERE

{Relaxing in Mauritius} Go ----> HERE

{Love In Paris} Go ----> HERE

{Goddess} Go ----> HERE

{English Rose} Go ----> HERE

{Dinner In New York} Go ----> HERE

{Arabesque} Go ----> HERE

{A hint of blush} Go ----> HERE

Amore No. 12 - The Uniform Project

2010-01-21T11:36:00.006+08:00

We are living in times where fashion is one of the single driving forces that fuels the economy. Most women (myself included) couldn't tell you what's happening in the stock market or in politics however ask us for an opinion on Valentino's latest collection and well.... how much time do you have?

In my opinion there's nothing wrong with saving up for that gorgeous pair of heels you've had your eye on for weeks or occasionally splurging on a special party dress however sometimes i feel that we've crossed borders from occasional splurging to down right crazy when i see people brag about how they've spent thousands and thousands for 1 single item of clothing, especially when there are those out there who only have 1 single item of clothing.

So when i stumbled across The Uniform Project my heart did little back flips of joy to see such a courageous gorgeous act of charity. It's so subtle, so simple (or so it seems) and it comes straight from the heart.

Founded by Sheena Matheiken and Eliza Starbuck in 2009, Sheena pledged to wear one dress, for one year in an exercise in sustainable fashion. Eliza design and created 7 identical dresses (one for every day of the week) and Sheena spruces them up with accessories, layering with other clothing and any other way to make them all look like completely different outfits.

The project is a dedicated year long fundraiser for the Akanksha Foundation, to fund the education of children living in Indian slums.

It's projects like this that makes me proud to be in this industry and inspires me to do my part.

** How can you help? Go to The Uniform Project to make a donation or to donate any accessories laying around that could go to better use =)

{All Mine} & mini Update

2010-01-15T16:13:00.006+08:00

Soft pinkish/peach silk, hand embellished with pearl seed & crystal beading.
love

Occasionally when i'm not creating custom orders and have a few hours to myself i quietly sit by my desk, scissors in one hand, piles of fabric usually on my lap and without any agenda i start to cut away without a care in the world. I allow the creative juices to bubble up and eventually spill over into a design frenzy and usually by the end of it a piece will come into fruition.
love
A piece just for moi =)

Sooner or later i end up recreating them for my shop however i always keep the original for myself, like an architect keeping his/hers blueprints.

2010 seems more exciting than ever for Olive Farm with new projects in the mix and pieces coming out at a steady flow. Here just a few insights on what's in stall for the new year -

:: Buying trip mid year with Hubby
:: More shoots! Outdoors as well as some studio time =)
:: More markets! I love meeting and talking to new clients as well as showcasing new lines.
:: Olive Farm website *fingers crossed*
:: Teaming up with a fashion buyer for potential fashion show
:: More exposure baby!

Stay tuned =)

{In The Bedroom - preview}

2010-01-04T13:19:00.006+08:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous New Years =) Just like the year before i spent the countdown to 2010 with some of my closest friends and then we continued dancing the night away to the wee hours =)

However now that the festival season is slowly coming to an end i've been back into Olive Farm works and creating many lovely pieces which will be on my etsy site soon and i've also found time to fit in a mini shoot to showcase some of the accessories.

{More pics to come}

Thank you to Rin Nelson Photography
& Zaymah Mohamed

Happy Holidays

2009-12-25T10:51:00.001+08:00

I hope you have a safe and festive filled holiday this season =)
See you in 2010!

Love Liv & Ed

Touch the sky

2009-12-23T14:35:00.001+08:00

With rosettes like these, don't you feel like you could?

More Travel Blooms

2009-12-18T19:20:00.003+08:00

Soon to hit my etsy store =)

High Tea in London

Dinner in New York

{Florrie Mitton Couture}

2009-12-12T12:19:00.007+08:00

ethereal silk tulle garter

Of all the times i've searched etsy for wedding accessories i've never come across gorgeous garters like the ones from Florrie Mitton Couture! Made from soft silk tulle, hand beaded embellishments, lace and pearl trims what's not to love? They are simply luxurious and look like they were made with an eye for detail without being overly crowded.

glitterati silk tulle garter

je t'aime lace garter

Amore No. 11 - Bali

2009-12-11T14:36:00.011+08:00

i HEART Bali!!

I really do! Some people don't but i really, truly do! From Perth Bali is only a 3 and a half hour flight so it's completely affordable and convenient. Also with the Aussie dollar strong, once converted into rupiah it's ridiculous how affordable everything is however that's not why i love it. I love the people with all their rituals and constant smiles, the food (tho it's not always agreed with me), how luscious and green everything is, how the whole island accommodates for everyone... from the glitzy $1000 a night villas, to staying in $30 a night bungalows. Bali has everything =)

When the horrific Bali bombings happened in 2002 the tourist industry was at an all time low which was a complete meltdown to the Balinese, seeing that the island's main source of income is through tourism. Many foreigners were afraid to visit the beautiful island and the Balinese suffered (not to mentioned family and friends of the victims).

Hubby and I chose Bali as our honeymoon destination not really knowing what to expect. I did a lot of research and for our wedding we asked guests to contribute to our honeymoon rather than the usual registry. We were so pleasantly surprised and spent a wonderful 9 days there, completely relaxed and taken by the gorgeous people who were so friendly, even those who haggled us like crazy in the markets would always give us a warm smile after wards followed by 'enjoy the rest of the day' hehe

So when i found out that Hubby's company was sending all employees (plus partners) there as a Xmas pressie i was ecstatic! It was only for 4 days but it was enough to take in everything and revisit all our fave spots. I didn't however expect it to be as HOT & HUMID as it was and the fact that it was leavers in Australia so the streets were filled with teeny boppers who some how got permission from their parents to come to a foreign country with all their barely legal friends without adult supervision and even that couldn't dampen my mood.

I love Bali and i look forward to the day when i can take my children there and watch them run around on the beach with the local kids.
love

drinks at one of our fav chill out places - KUDETA

love

Awesome view - KUDETA
love
shopping at local markets (ignore creepy sweaty guy in background hehe)
loveprawn & calamari in turmeric sauce... yummmm!
love
on kuta beach

Bali sunset =)

{Upmarket}

2009-11-30T11:33:00.009+08:00

love
Upmarket has come & gone and my gosh it was a lot of fun! I've attended every one since the beginning, usually buying up a storm, and this time i was on the other side, being a seller for the first time. My stall was set up on the outside under a marquee where there was plenty of fresh air & sunshine and great traffic flow =) Big props to the organisers!
love
I had such a wonderful response to new Olive Farm pieces, especially the flower bib necklaces which completely sold out under 2 hours! yay! I also had A LOT of enquiries from bridesmaids & brides about custom pieces. I can't wait to make more products & hopefully participate in Upmarket in 2010!
love

Lots of different colours to attract the crowd =)
love

People couldn't resist these lil beauties!
love

My best seller of the day!
love

view from my stall =) Tall buildings protected me from the sun hehe
love

Posing with the hubby who was excellent manning the store while i went to
chat to other girls & buy some goodies of my own =)

love

Deadlines

2009-11-23T11:44:00.001+08:00

Travel Blooms

2009-11-19T15:05:00.004+08:00

Relaxing in Mauritius

Dancing in Jamaica

Love in Paris

{MOTL & update}

2009-11-18T13:39:00.010+08:00

I've never been sooo busy! It reminds me of the weeks leading up to my big day where i would stay home putting stickers on boxes rather than out partying with my friends. I have 2 markets in Nov (one which i just participated last weekend) and I'm still receiving orders since launching the Wedding Story. I'm breathing Olive Farm 24/7! haha I admit there is a certain rush to it but I'm looking forward to Dec when Hubby & i will be flying off to Bali for 4 days courtesy to his work place sending the whole company for some much needed R&R =)
love
I'm happy to report that the MOTL markets went really well. Hubby and i were being super organised which made it really easy on the day. Normally i would get one of my sisters or a gal pal to keep me company but as everyone was busy ed put up his hand and volunteered to help out and boy did he ever. Not only did he help with the display but he also made more sales on his own while i was walking around talking to friends and other stall holders haha
love
The new Olive Farm range was a big hit however surprisingly lines i was considering discontinuing almost sold out completely and pieces that always sell were ignored. I guess you can never tell what kind of crowd will be at any given market. I'm really excited about UPMARKET in less than 2 weeks and with hubby by my side i know it's going to be fun!
love
Some pics of the day ~ sorry for the blurry pics, lighting wasn't the best but i tried =)

Ed & I at our stall

Trying on pieces

The Soap Opera stall was right next to me and i bought a lot of goodies =)
Not to mention Tarnya was a delight to have as a market buddy!
love

Little Mo & Friends

Niina Aoki

These two gorgeous chicks from Blush of Boys. They had amazing jewelery!

Amore No. 10 - Time Outs!

2009-11-05T23:40:00.008+08:00

At the exhibition

There are simply not enough hours in the day! yup, that thought has been running through my mind for the past week or so as i busily prepare for my upcoming markets. From the moment i wake up to the wee hours into the night my poor little fingers have been frantically sewing, cutting, gluing... you name it. I've gone craft mental and it's not because i haven't been organise but more due the to huge response of 'The Wedding Story' pics launched on FB last week & last minute orders which i probably should have said no to but too late now.

I also keep changing my mind with the overall theme of my display. Should i stay with the original fun & quirky or lean more towards the new Olive Farm? which has a girly & sophisticated touch to everything. Argghhhh! decisions, decisions.

My poor mind needed a break so i was grateful when my baby sister invited me to her Tafe Clock exhibition a few nights back. Novi (my sis) is studying furniture design and her class was given the assignment of designing and making a clock from their own hands, easy right? wrong! i mean it's fair to say when your restricted with nothing your imagination can really go crazy, well so i think hehe

Here's a few pics of the night ~

Novi and her lego masterpiece =)

Cool orange floor clock

Not a bad spread for big crowd hehe

Kinda like a satellite, don't you think?

My mum was soooo close to buying this. Her reason 'it looks cool!' haha

Awesome fluke shot of moi while cooling off outside =) Thanks Rin!

It was a little humid inside hence the crowd outside.

Overall it was really nice to take a break from preparing for the markets and just mingling with other artsy fartsy people =) Well done Nov, awesome work!

The Wedding Story - Official Photos

2009-10-28T23:38:00.013+08:00

For more info & photos on each piece please search for my fan page on FaceBook or email me - olivefarm@live.com.au Items will be posted on Etsy soon! A big thank you to Rin Nelson photography for your amazing work =)

Weekend roaming

2009-10-25T16:24:00.014+08:00

On our way to Freo =)

lanterns @ the markets

Love the colours!

'ahh i'll only be a few minutes babes' epic fail!

Was stopped by so many people asking about my flower necklace =)

Although the weather was warm i couldn't resist stopping at San Churros for some hot chocolate with icecream.

My spoils of the day =) Note the little cake topper snow man was given to me by a lovely lady who stopped me in a store to talk about my necklace. Yay freebies!

The Wedding Story

2009-10-23T10:38:00.005+08:00

This is one of my favourite shots from the photo shoot in Freo. It was a beautiful day, with people everywhere but we managed to find this little alley way where we were perfectly secluded and undisturbed. Photography by Rin Nelson (amazing photographer - check out her fanpage on FB) and did i mention she's my sister hahaha score!

Creativity overload

2009-10-22T17:49:00.004+08:00

Next month is going to be crazy busy for me. I will be participating in 2 markets Made On The Left and Upmarket. Getting into Upmarket actually really surprised me as i had applied for the September spot however i didn't get through, so you can imagine my shock when i received an email inviting me to participate in the Xmas market which always draws in the big crowds.
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Since the photo shoot (which i will be posting up a teaser pic later tonight *wink*) i've been trying to make as much stock as possible not including completing customer orders and replying emails, blogging etc
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I find since creating a calender/schedule on spread sheet i've been good in keeping organised and although i was suppose to be making felt brooches today i couldn't help but take time out and create something a little more 'new' olive farm as well.
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I've been seeing all these amazing bib necklaces on etsy for a while now and this is my version of one =)

Amore No. 9 - Tord Boontje

2009-10-19T20:38:00.010+08:00

When i first saw this lamp in a magazine a few years back my heart felt like it jumped up from a somber sleep and started doing cartwheels as the girlest 'squeel' escaped my mouth. That is when Tord Boontje first entered my life.
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Soon after my bestie was asking me if i would help her make her own version for her upcoming exhibition and of course i said a big whopping YES! However after trying to recreate the original we discovered that cutting outlines of flowers, leaves and other bits & pieces from paper is not easy which only made me love Tord's work even more.
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For those who don't know who he is (tho i don't know how that's possible because his work is everywhere!) Tord is a designer from the Netherlands who worked in different parts of Europe before opening Studio Tord Boontje in 1996. His work expands from light installations, homewares, fabric, to stick on tattoos. This guy is seriously a genius & i love his design philosophy ~
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The Studio's work draw from a belief that modernism does not mean minimalism, that contemporary does not forsake tradition, and that technology does not abandon people and sense.

I want you!

Field of flowers *sigh*

Boontje's design on a classic egg chair.

Awesome Chair!

My love... you are awesome!

2009-10-17T01:18:00.004+08:00

At kudeta in Bali on our honeymoon =)

Gosh i love my husband! Yes, i know we ALL love our husbands (well most of us hehe) but i just love saying how much i love him!

After reading this article i was convinced that i needed more space to move my business to the next level. The plan was to ask ed if he didn't mind me switching my Olive Farm set up in the study with the master bedroom. The other room was just too small to house all my equipment and ideas =) Also aside from sleeping we spent the least amount of time in our bedroom. His response after i explained my reasons for the bigger room was 'well, i was already thinking about that'. Gold!

I jumped up and down for about 5 minutes all excited and then got to work moving things around, this was at 9pm one night btw. He even tore himself from the tv to help me move the furniture and didn't mind helping me vacuum the carpet. Did i mention how much i love my husband?

Thrilled, ecstatic, over the moon doesn't even come close to describing how i feel about having space to be creative. I will post photos soon but this is just a post to say thank you to my baby =)

Preview

2009-10-13T20:20:00.002+08:00

Uber gorgeous Mashita, Photography by Rin Nelson

Last weekend the team for the photo shoot came together to take some trial shots and do a fitting. Some of them turned out better than we expected =) yay! i can't wait to see how things go on Sunday when we plan to go into Fremantle to do some location shots. Say hello if you happen to see us hehe

Amore No 8. - More room equals more stuff, right?

2009-10-12T15:05:00.003+08:00

If we ever own a warehouse apartment it could easily look like this if my hubby didn't step in hehe More on this place from ----> HERE

Oh how i love bead work!

2009-10-12T13:37:00.005+08:00

Beauty is in the details, don't you think?

Another piece I'm working on =)

Dress me pretty

2009-10-07T23:40:00.002+08:00

So light and airy for spring =)
From ---> HERE

Amore No.7 - Sweet Petula

2009-10-07T13:22:00.008+08:00

Perfect wrapping for Halloween. For more info visit ---> HERE

Everyone knows i'm a sucker for packaging. I believe it's the first thing that draws me to any product. Hubby gets very wary when i enter new stores with awesome window displays or if we see something at the markets which has 'livvy' written all over it. What can i say? If you make it look good, i'll want it!

As you can imagine i've had to reallllyyyyy restrain myself when it comes to browsing through etsy but this store can not be ignored! Sweet Petula... even the name makes the little girl in me scream in excitement haha

Created in 1995, Sweet Petula is a luxury bath, body & home brand that started by selling products at craft fairs and markets. They now operate from their retail store located in Seattle, Washington in the Pioneer Square District. Oh i can't wait to get my hands on one of these babies!

Ohhh something for the hubby i think haha Visit ---> HERE

A year's worth of soap! can you really resist? Go ---> HERE

She even does custom soaps to promote your business!
Something definitely worth looking into =) Go ---> HERE

Chia's day out!

2009-10-03T14:30:00.013+08:00

Occasionally when I least expect it hubby surprises me by planning an outing for us. We got up early this morning to go to the Kalamunda Markets, first stopping at Little Miss Cupcake to pick up some treats & having the compulsory morning coffee at Coffee by Day. The markets were PACKED probably due to the lovely weather =)

Waiting for our coffee

Oh so girly Little Miss Cupcake store. Get in early coz they usually sell out!

Busy markets & waiting for eddee to order his Turkish pizza thingy which was realllllyyyyy disappointing =( The smell was great and it looked delicious but lacked any sort of flavour!

Devonshire Tea

Just when i thought it was all over Ed then takes me to Heritage Rose where we had devonshire tea surrounded by gorgeous scenery.

They had a massive koi pond and when it came to feeding time they went crazy!
Kinda freaky if you ask me.

Thanks for a great day baby, you're the best =)

On your marks! Get Set! Gooooooo!

2009-10-02T22:29:00.004+08:00

Tomorrow night my sis and I are attending a special formal dinner to celebrate the end of Ramadan. There will be over 100 people coming along making it a WONDERFUL opportunity to show off some of the Olive Farm collection. I already made a special piece for myself and considered making one for my sis if time permitted, well it didn't and when i went to tell her how busy my schedule has been of late she "convinced" me i was making a major mistake not putting something on her since she's been asked to be the official photographer for the night. Yiiiiikkkkeeesss! So with adrenalin pumping and mind eager to be creative i pushed out this peacock number which matches her outfit and now i'm kinda jealous & wanna have it for myself! hahaha

I'm actually really pleased with this piece and I'm considering making a similar one for the wedding range, except i'll make the bloom BIGGER =)

Olive Farm Update

2009-10-01T22:04:00.004+08:00

Anyone who regularly visits my etsy site knows i haven't been uploading new products lately and there's a reason why - I'm too busy from my orders on FB! Seriously!

Ever since i made my fan page and word has gone out i've been bombarded with orders, requests or just messages of encouragement from friends who didn't realise i actually do this for a living haha It's funny coz it was only at the beginning of this year a friend mentioned i should advertise on FB and i was like 'nahhhh, no one would care' and lo and behold... TA DA!! (thanks maryam!)

I'm currently in the works of making pieces for my wedding range and preparing for an upcoming photo shoot. I've also applied for a market in Nov *crossed fingers* which will focus more on the current Olive Farm products however eventually i'm going to start weeding it out. I've found something which i truly love doing and i believe it shows in my work, so time to get your dance shoes on coz it's out with the old and in with the new =)

Cheers big ears!

2009-09-28T23:52:00.008+08:00

Enjoying lunch with the ladies

C restaurant has a fabulous special going on where you 'pay what you think the meal is worth'!! When my girlies got wind of this we straight away organised a catch up, i mean... who wouldn't?
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With tummy's ready to be filled with delicious food & loaded with the latest news we took the arvo off and headed down to C which is in the heart of the city. Known for the fact that the restaurant is revolving 33 stories in the air we were smart enough to remember the cameras =)
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Everyone ended up ordering 3 courses and we paid $30 each, including drinks!! We also gave our waiter a big tip for being really attentive and happy to take photos of us hehe

For entree we had scrumptious mushroom & asparagus risotto with creme fraiche & walnut crumble , grilled prawns in garlic and herb butter with potato saffron pave & tomato and fennel concasse, & salmon and avocado carpaccio with a blood orange and basil vinaigrette. YUM!

4 outta the 7 girls couldn't resist the fabulous crispy skinned saltwater Barramundi fillet, with caponata vegetables and lemon basil aioli. Have to go back for this one!

And for my dessert i picked the vanilla bean crème brulée, blackberry compote and almond tuile. Sooooooo good!

All in all the lunch was fantastic to say the least. I heard mixed reviews leading up to the lunch however my experience was wonderful and i highly recommend it to everyone.

Working rooms

2009-09-23T14:13:00.009+08:00

where Liv gets creative =) notice my champ & rosie prints.
Get yours from ---> HERE

Moving houses is exciting but stressful. Packing all your personal belongings into boxes, suitcase and well just about anything that will fit your life is hard, especially when you know you'll be unpacking it all only a few days later... well in my case, months!

I swear i have lost precious items in transit and for the life of me i can't find my ipod, tho i know i saw it around the house somewhere. argghhh!

However I am relieved we are living in a house with more space and i love the view from my studio window, even though spring refuses to pay us Perthians a visit. Despite the clouds i took some shots of my new working space and i thought i would share it with you =)

My awesome spice rack which my dad gave me and i now use to
house all my flower embellishments. Thanks dad!

I like to pin my unfinished hair pieces in front of me so when
inspiration hits i can get to work straight away =)

Shameless entry to win HI TREE giveaway!!

2009-09-22T23:54:00.004+08:00

Tina from Hi Tree is celebrating her birthday and fall collection by giving away two of her beauty autumn maple trees. There's 3 ways to enter into the draw -
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1. Twitter (not a member, don't ever plan to be!)
2. Post on FB
3. Blog (the OBVIOUS choice!)
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So between the dates of September 21st - 28th she's giving 15% of your total order in her shop. Isn't the tree scrumptious?!

Please be mine! hehe shameless i tell ya!!

Amore No.6 - 500 days of summer

2009-09-21T13:38:00.005+08:00

I heart romantic comedies with a passion!! Somehow i love that they are completely predictable and teary worthy but I've seen a million of these movies and it's starting to make me kinda numb!

So lately i've been starving for something new & original that grabs all my heart strings, gives it an all mighty tug & makes me wanna get up from my seat applauding (tho i doubt this will ever happen) To my delight '500 days of summer' did all that and more. I walked away with the biggest grin on my face and was so engrossed in the film i completely forgot to eat the chocolate bar in my bag which is unheard of in Livvy's world.

Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and adorable Zooey Deschanel, this movie is about the deconstruction of a relationship, from day 1 to 500. With an awesome soundtrack and amazing chemistry between the leads this is no ordinary love story. You'll find yourself hooked from the beginning to end and leave wanting more.

I send out a HUGE recommendation to anyone who loves a good love flick that's left of center and breaks away from all of Hollywood's cliched notion of love.

Aaaaaaahhhhhhh!

Meet & Make

2009-09-19T16:56:00.003+08:00

Ali from Ali J Illustrations, Liza from Lillybuds and Lauren from Osier

Every now and again a few of us Perthie sellers from etsy get together for something known as 'meet & make'. Everyone brings a plate and over lunch we catch up on the latest market goss, what's happening online, and there was even a show & tell today =)

Today's meeting was hosted by lovely Pam from Get Silvered and the spread was like 'woahh!' (good job everyone!) There was sushi, pizza, frittata, salad, carrot cake, scones, gluten free chocolate cake (which i totally forgot to have a piece of Niina!) and much more.

It's so wonderful to know a group of people who know exactly what you're going through and are there to support and throw creative ideas around. Can't wait for the next meet up ladies =)

Niina from Niina Aoki and Jane from Planet Lime

** other attendants were Lara from Smith & Bird and Annie from 17 threads (sorry girls and Pam, i didn't get to take a picture of you but i won't forget the next time hehe)

Blush & Bashful

2009-09-14T15:51:00.002+08:00

Another fave piece for an upcoming Olive Farm photo shoot =)

Amore No.5 - Small & Cool!

2009-09-14T11:47:00.006+08:00

I love when i see homes decorated with the owners personality. You can just tell this couple are both graphic artists, with a love of cool vintage pieces & comic books =) Even though the apartment itself isn't very big they've managed to create a spacious feel without compromising on their personal style.

Don't you just love the framed comics? beyond awesome!

I heart the different prints! Kinda boyish in the bathroom and feminine in the bedroom, a healthy compromise (plus the little stuffed dracula is too cute for words)

Into the blue

2009-09-13T12:33:00.002+08:00

Don't you just love when pictures turn out the way you imagine them in your head?

It's all so quiet... sssshhhh!

2009-09-13T00:12:00.006+08:00

Hubby is away on camp and i don't mean like how 12 year old's go on camp, i mean he's facilitating in an event known as RYLA where they take young adults, throw them in the woods and build character attributes such as confidence ( in a less cave man manner like i'm describing). His participation is voluntary however since hubby himself attended RYLA a few years ago i guess he wants to give something back, one of many reasons why he's such a great guy =)

HOWEVER.... this means i'm home alone.

Being home alone as a kid was exciting. I would often snoop in my sisters room to gather evidence should i ever need it for a sticky situation but now that i'm a grown up and living in my own house, i dreaded hubby leaving for fear of all things that go bump in the night. I've been sitting here for the past 3, maybe 4 hours listening to Eat Pray Love and working on Olive Farm when it suddenly dawned on me 'i haven't said anything in the last 4 hours!!', not one word, squeak or sound, which is unusual for someone normally so chatty.

In this silence my mind is rested and calm.
Creativity is flowing and my breathing is almost rhythmical.
With all the everyday stresses that i carry on my shoulders i am, at least for a little while, peaceful.

I guess sometimes you just gotta shut the hell up!

Amore No.4 - Eat Pray Love... in audio!

2009-09-08T23:19:00.004+08:00

I'm not usually one to read 'self help' books but this one really appealed to me after watching the author, Elizabeth Gilbert, on Oprah talk about her experiences in Italy. She truly is a magical, talented, amazing writer and this book lifted my spirits so high I was walking around in a secret bubble of absolute giddiness for a few days after reading it.

So you can imagine my thrill when I discovered the book on audio (actually hubby found it), which made me immediately change my usual playlist of old school R&B to her. Like most people, I work with music playing from my computer but now instead of smooth tunes from Marvin Gaye & Stevie Wonder I have Elizabeth describing the delicious pizza they serve in Naples and her voice is so comforting I feel I'm right there with her =)

Sneak Peak

2009-09-05T21:05:00.008+08:00

Just a sneak peak on another piece i've been working on =)

started with an outline

decided to fill the design with glass beads

close up of almost finished piece