March Meet the Maker

I can't believe March is over! The month lent itself as a very creative outlet for me through this Instagram challenge. Especially since it was my second year, and I really needed to flex my imagination for a few of the repeat daily challenges. Regardless, I found some amazing new talent, picked up some great ideas and gained a few followers. Just 200 more before the end of the year to reach my goal (yikes)!

Wedding Trials

How many flowers does it take to make up five bridesmaid bouquets? Approximately 55!

Working on a wedding for this fall. I think we're getting right with the types of flowers...now how about those colors? 

Mushroom Barley Soup

What you need

olive oil

1-2 cloves garlic, chopped

1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
3/4 cup barley
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 ounces mushrooms, stems removed and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

salt and pepper

What you do
1. Heat the oil over medium heat. Add in the garlic, onions and carrots. Cook, stirring often, until the vegetables are soft and tender, about 8 minutes. 

2. Add the barley and stir, until lightly toasted, about 3 minutes.

3. Add the flour, stir so it coats the barley and vegetables, and cook for 2 minutes. 

4. Pour in the vegetable broth and mushrooms. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the barley is tender, 20 to 25 minutes.

I only had 4 cups of veggie broth, so mine has the consistency of risotto. Add in up to six cups total of broth for a more soup-like consistency.

Charlotte's Bouquet

It's pretty fantastic what you can accomplish in a few text messages!

A dear friend was hosting a brunch for the arrival of her friend's third child (yes, third ;). She sent me the invite via text and asked what I could come up with to dress up the tables. Luckily for her I had some foliage in the mint and dark turquoise already crafted up. I also just received a rather large shipment of felt in all the pinks and blushes to match perfectly.

  

Within a few days, I finished up four bouquets and gathered these vintage vases (leftover from our wedding) for baby sprinkle/shower/brunch centerpieces. Mom is going to put them in the nursery and what a nice little welcome for baby Charlotte! 

March Self Portrait

I'm participating in the March Meet the Maker Instagram challenge this month. It's my second year and only at seven days in, and I'm already feeling so inspired! Even though several of the prompts are the same as last year, I have pushed myself to think outside the box - and even plan ahead on lots of the themes. I'm really enjoying seeing all the so-talented makers out there and finding tons of new wonderful handmade goods that I can give as gifts in the future.

So, my goal for March is to complete the challenge (follow me here)! And to also set up a few new outlets or creative collaborations for Fairview Place. Maybe a class? Maybe some new perks on the shop... Let's see what the rest of March has in store for me!

Black backdrop

I feel like these are a little reminiscent of the old school Rifle Paper Co. flowers....my my how they've changed their offering! I had no idea. When I was in college I applied to be an intern and it was just stationary. Although that was about 10 years ago!

I'm practicing some new flowers with my adorable felted pom poms.