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Do What You Love interview – Meredith Langer

Posted on 2015-09-10 at 8:56 am.

Today’s big interview is with super-talented calligrapher Meredith Langer, who discovered her gift for creating beautiful handwriting by chance. “I loved typography but it wasn’t until a had to work on a project that involved copying a font that I fell in love with it,” she explains. “I began to notice how certain letters are formed and became obsessed with creating my “perfect alphabet” with angles and spacing that looked best.”

Image credit: In the eye photography

Her love of scripts and hand lettering led her to start her own business as a calligrapher and sign maker. “I am a firm believer in living life to the fullest and making everyday meaningful,” she says. “This means that I fill my days doing things that I enjoy doing: making place cards for someone’s special day, creating signs for a local restaurant, addressing envelopes, or wood burning a custom gift, logo or packaging design.”

Meredith is also passionate about sharing her knowledge with others and she regularly teaches traditional pen and nib techniques, as well as more experimental forms of calligraphy. I had the pleasure of taking a workshop with Meredith earlier this year and I can highly recommend it. ~ Rachel

1. What is your background?

I have always been drawn to creative endeavours and I love learning new skills. I’ve obtained so many random skills that I’ve been told that I am modern day renaissance woman, which always makes me laugh. I have had no formal training in calligraphy, but I majored in art in college and I often pull from the skills I learned in school.

2. How would you describe your style and approach?

I am definitely drawn to the handwritten touch. So much of what we see on a daily basis is typed or super perfect. I love doing things with a purpose but embracing the one-of-a-kind feel.

3. What are your favourite tools?

My best tool is definitely my Le Pen. Supposedly the pen was invented for left handed writers because it dries so quickly. I love it’s fine-point felt tip. I am a pretty hard writer, so when I break it in and hit a sweet spot, it’s like heaven! I am also a huge fan of any writing implements made by ZIG. I often use their Posterman pens for chalkboard signs.

When working with traditional calligraphy, I love working with india ink or mixing my own colours with powder pigments/gauche, water and gum arabic. Finding the right paper is key for calligraphers (your nib will catch on anything too fibrous) but solid white bristol is my all time favourite to write on. I have a collection of Hunt, Brause and Gillott nibs that I always alternate between.

4. What are your absolute necessities to get your creative juices flowing?

Honestly… Instagram! I follow a lot of typographers and calligraphers that are constantly inspiring me and pushing me to try new things. I also have a nice little library of books. Molly Thorpe’s Modern Calligraphy & Eleanor Winters’ Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy are both a must. Oh, and putting on a good record or podcast really helps me stay motivated when I have lots of work to do!

5. Talk us through your design process…

It really depends on what I am doing. When I am working on a large scale sign, like a seating chart, I start with a typed document which lists everyone’s name. I format the names so they are laid out as I would like to write them. Then I measure the sign and figure out the math for the spacing (this is not a glamorous part of the job, but it is an important one). Once this is done, I can focus on the fun creative bit while sitting in front of the sign.

6. You’ve worked on countless projects; what have been your favourites so far?

I love doing large scale signs in chalk! Most of the work I do for clients is with waterproof paint markers so it’s great when someone allows me to work with good old fashioned chalk! I did a large scale menu sign for Wynnewood Station Cafe that I love. It’s on a wall in an old train station that was built in 1870 and the building has a lot of charm.

7. When did you realise you could turn your passion into a business? How did you go about it?

For the past five years I’ve been freelancing here and there while working a full time job. The past two years have been very enlightening for me as I found I had more and more work coming my way. One day I sat down and looked at how much I was making in my full-time job and how much I was making with my personal work. It was then that I realized that I could be potentially making more doing my own thing. And, honestly, I wasn’t happy in my full time job so I made the jump and left. It’s been hard work starting my own business! I constantly have to motivate myself and it’s not always fun work. But it’s totally worth it and now I get to I get to share my knowledge and sills with others too.

8. What do you most enjoy about running your own business, and what have been your biggest challenges?

I really have enjoyed how empowering having my own business is! It is super rewarding to drive down the street and see my own signs along the way. I also love how I can make my own schedule.

That said, managing my time can be tricky. I have learned that I have to give myself one office day a week to get organised, plan my week ahead and respond to e-mails. I also find it difficult to say no to people, but experience is teaching me to be realistic about what can be achieved and I’m also careful not to undersell my time.

9. What projects are you currently working on?

I am currently working on a photograph quilt for a client’s wedding. The couple has been together for 20 years, so I will be sewing together a photograph from each year. I will be embroidering dates and names to the quilt, which I am really excited about. It’s nice getting the dust off of my sewing machine!

10. What is your dream commission?

My dream commission… such a good question! One that is a repeat customer. I do a lot of wedding work, which I love because it’s all of one big magical day. But thats it, once the wedding is over, the works over. I love creating a relationship with someone where I update or modify the work overtime and watch it evolve.

11. What are the current trends in calligraphy?

Calligraphy is such an old tradition. There are many aspects that never go out of style! For example the classic black ink on white never gets old. But I think that it is definitely trending to use unconventional inks: watercolor, gauche, gold or white. Brush pens are also really fun to play with. I personally love applying calligraphy skills on unconventional surfaces. Wood burning in script is always super fun.

12. Finally, what are your top tips for anyone who’s never done calligraphy before?

Getting good requires lots of repetitive practicing.
Don’t settle on one tool, try several until your find your favorite!
Use a calligraphers grid under your paper to help keep your lines straight.
When first starting, just focus on lower cased letters so you don’t get tripped up on capitalizing.
Begin by focusing on each letter in the alphabet and perfecting each letter.
Get inspired by what other calligraphers or sign makers are doing. (I love using Instagram to get inspired)
Try to copy the inspiration and see if you can do it better!
Don’t get discouraged if you are struggling, ask for help because it might be a silly mistake or a tiny hair caught in your nib. (I have cats, so this happens often for me!)
Take a calligraphy class.
Don’t forget to have fun!

For more information about Meredith and her work visit her website: www.merelymere.com

How do you train for a 10-month, 10,000km, cycle ride on a bamboo bike?

Posted on 2015-09-08 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

This is a guest post from Claire Le Hur who is cycling to China with her fiancé Stuart Block. The couple will start their journey in East Africa where they will follow new ‘silk roads’ charting the journey of key natural resources as part of an exciting new education project. Claire will be riding a bamboo bike, built by an African social enterprise and Stuart will ride a tandem, keeping the back seat of the tandem free for those they meet en route. They will also be raising money and awareness for two great educational charities. Find out more about Claire’s big adventure here.

People keep asking me how Stuart and I are preparing for the 10-month trip in which we plan to cycle in excess of 10,000km and, to be honest, I don’t really know how to answer.

Those who have done similar things have told me that you can’t really prepare for a challenge like this. They say that the real training happens during the first couple of weeks on the road. I just hope it’s true – and that the places we go and the people we meet will take my mind off my sore legs and bum!

Of course many people who take on challenges like this would go all out to get super fit and bike ready, just look at Mark Beaumont who recently set a new world record by cycling over 10,000km from Cairo to Cape Town in less than 42 days! Luckily for me, we aren’t trying to break any records!

Then there are inspirational people like the retired headmistress Anne Mustoe, who took up cycling at the age of 54 and rode around the world twice – once in each direction – writing brilliant books about her adventures along the way. I love this excerpt from her obituary in The Times:

“… When she resolved to cycle round the world, Mustoe was 54, somewhat overweight and unfit, and without any idea of how to mend a puncture. She had not ridden a bike for 30 years, wobbled when she tried again, and she hated camping, picnics and discomfort. Her Condor bicycle, customised for her by a mechanic with a workshop in the Old Kent Road, was bought for her as a leaving present from the girls at her school, and she was still riding it 22 years and about 100,000 miles later on her last cycle trip this year…”

You can buy Anne’s books here.

Stu and I lie somewhere between these extremes (albeit Stu has Mark’s passion, drive and determination, and being a cycling novice, I’m definitely more like Anne!) but hopefully we’ll make a good team. And who knows, there might even be a book in us too!

But back to my training…

In April 2014 I got on a road bike for the first time in years. Stu and I cycled up the famous Col de la Columbière, which was still closed to cars due to the snow. It was amazingly do-able, although we went very slowly.

Fast forward 16 months and we were back in the Alps. I had cycled up the Col twice, from both sides, and rather worryingly I found it so much harder. There is a lot to be said for being a novice and not having any idea about what is going on!

Getting some practice in: cycling Col de la Colombière in the Alps, one of the most famous and notorious Tour de France climbs

This experience flagged up three big issues that I needed to overcome pretty quickly:

Issue #1: Stop comparing myself

I realised that I had to stop getting disheartened when ‘Super-Stu’ disappears over the top of yet another hill leaving me panting, sweating, cursing him and sometimes even crying, as I make my way up to the top.

Our first ‘training ride’ in the Alps was the perfect example of such a scenario. “Let’s do a nice 60km circuit and go up the Col de la Columbière from the other side,” said Stuart. I thought that sounded OK. Only three hills and 2100m climbing – but I wouldn’t think about that! The first hill proved horrible, very narrow with lots of gravel, and I was slipping everywhere, while doing climbs that were about 18%. I was forced to admit defeat twice (which is not easy for me) and get off and walk.

Now I am truing to stop comparing myself to Stu and be honest with him about how I am finding the challenge rather than getting emotional and snapping at him. I keep reminding myself that I am not a pro, that this is all quite new to me and that I am proud of my own achievements.

Issue #2: Saddling up with smile

My saddle is made by Brooks so it’s made of very hard leather which is meant to mould to your bum ensuring maximum comfort… in the end! I have been using mine for about two months now and must have done hundreds of miles but the saddle is still so hard. After a big cycle ride it’s impossible to sit down properly and I confess I’m slightly worried about how much longer it will take to break in. Watch this space, I will let you know how it goes.

Issue #3: Getting the right bike

My beautiful bamboo bike is finished! British engineer and bike designer Rich Chapman has done an amazing job on it following the wonderful work Kasoma Nordin started in Uganda.

Kasoma is regarded as the best Bamboo bike builder in Africa and he’s now producing beautiful bamboo bikes. This is Claire’s in the making

We decided that riding my new bike around the Alps would be a bit silly as a heavy touring bike might not do much for my confidence! So I was riding my old road bike with temperamental gears and a dodgy back wheel, which finally broke on a fast descent from Col de Croix-Fry. Back in London I rode the bamboo bike for the first time in torrential rain – not really a fair first outing – so it’s been great to get out there and ride it properly.

Claire’s bamboo bike is ready for action

We’ve been trying to be sensible and go out for regular bike rides, with some back to back days, but there is little more to our training programme that than. Stuart did joke one evening that we should try to ‘fatten up’ a bit before we go because we’ll be burning so much energy so that has been the perfect excuse to eat and drink a lot! It will be very interesting to see how my body changes as the months go on. Psychologically things are bound to change too, and I know that I need to relax and not think about things too much… which will be very good for me!

As our leaving date gets closer we have also been doing lots of admin and I am driving myself crazy with lists! There’s so much to do – not just in terms of packing up and making sure we have the right kit, but saying our goodbyes, etc. We’ve also just finished getting the charity and educational side of things up and running now, which will make the trip even more exciting and worthwhile. I still can’t believe we’re about to head off and sometimes I find myself wondering what I’d be doing for the next year if we weren’t about to head off on this great adventure!

My next post will be about our adventures with Kasoma Nordin in Uganda before we head into Rwanda – I can’t wait!

Get out your rainbow colours and make today beautiful

Posted on 2015-09-07 at 11:00 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

A magical reminder that the world is a kaleidoscope of colour. Image credit: Jamie McCaffrey

Colour is a powerful thing. It can open the door to the mind and the soul and heal us on all levels, it can improve our health and boost our sense of wellbeing and it can also help us to create a happy harmonious home. So forget black, white and grey (yes, all fifty shades of it!) it’s time to open our eyes to the bold, the bright and the beautiful.

Here are our top tips for inviting more colour into your life…

1. Wear clothes that light you up

We all love neutrals but by stocking our wardrobes with the same fail-safe shades we could be missing out on the health benefits implicit in colour. As our very own colour expert Louise Gale says: “Colours can have a big psychological effect on us. Warm, bright colours, such as pink, yellow and orange, instantly put us in a cheery mood and make others feel that way too. Green is calming and soothing, blue can help you feel relaxed, and purple is associated with creativity and luxury and like red, it can also boost your energy levels.” Look for beauty in what you have in your wardrobe and bring your outfit to life with a bright accessory, like a bag, a scarf or a piece of chunky jewellery.

Floral Gypsy Top £26, Jeans £20, Knitted Scarf £12, Tan Belt £5, M&Co

2. Rock bold lips

It’s a small thing but lipstick makes a massive difference to the way you look and feel. As Coco Chanel said: “If you’re sad, add more lipstick and attack”. Bright lips are back this season and the enduring classic red offers a shade for every complexion; orangey-reds work well on ‘warmer’ faces with yellow undertones, while reds with a hint of blue look great against cool-toned skin.

Lipsticks, £12, Iconic London

3. Love your walls

While it’s great to have a neutral scheme that goes with everything, all that white, cream and beige can start to get you down. Your home is your playground and your sanctuary, so it should feel that way! Vibrant splashes of colour here and there can brighten your mood, stimulate lively conversation, inspire work, hobbies and interests and help you wind down too. If you’re not sure which hue is for you, take this The Paint Personality Test before you get out your brushes and go bold.

Image credit: House To Home

4. Give your living space a lift

A colourful cushion or a well-placed throw can change the focus of a room in an instant, while a quirky accessory will ensure your home reflects your personality and makes a style statement to see you into autumn.

Linea Justapose living room, House of Fraser

5. Go potty for plants

As Oscar de la Renta said: “Gardening is how I relax. It’s another form of creating and playing with colors.” So with cooler weather on its way now’s the time to pop down to your local garden centre and find inspiration. Add a pop of dramatic colour to your garden with containers filled with beautiful autumnal blooms like Violas, large faced Pansies, Heuchera, Nemesia, Snapdragon, Dahlias, Chrysanthemum or Camellia.

Image credit: Homebase

6. Spread a little sunshine

Show someone a little love today by giving a colourful gift – like a candle, photo frame or journal – wrapped in beautifully designed paper or decorated with bright tape. Your act of kindness is guaranteed to brighten their day.

Floral fabric sticky tape, £3.95, Dotcomgiftshop

7. Polish up your act

Dark manicures, brilliant brights, jewel tones, matt finishes and a splattering of nail art, when it comes to painting our fingers and toes there are so many wonderful ways to create our own unique and colourful look this autumn. So now’s the time to step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Matte nail polish, £2.99, New Look

8. Eat right, eat bright

Multi-coloured plant foods don’t just look good on your plate, they’re good for you as well. Each colour relates to different phytonutrients, which boast specific health benefits for the body and mind. Find out more here.

Image credit: Consciousbitesnutrition.com

9. Bring the outside in

Flowers have a wonderful healing energy, which can instantly lighten our mood or transform the atmosphere in a room. “The best way to appreciate the colour, scent and beauty of fresh flowers is to place them in your hallway and in your bedroom,” according to event-stylist-to-the-stars Matthew Robbins. “That way you enter your living space in the morning to something fresh, organic and inspiring and you end your day seeing something natural and beautiful.”

Botanical vases, Dunelm Mill

10. Connect with creativity

Ask yourself which colours you are especially drawn to right now and use these as a basis for a new creative project. Draw, paint, knit, sew, scrapbook, take pictures, bake – do whatever you love to do – or try something you’ve never done before. To find out how your colour choices reflect what is going on in your life right now, click here.

Which colours make you feel happiest? What’s your favourite colour and what does it mean to you? Which colours would you like to surround yourself with and why? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

Introducing our new guest blogger: Claire Le Hur

Posted on 2015-09-01 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

We are delighted to introduce you to our new guest blogger, Claire Le Hur. Classics teacher Claire is about to embark on a huge adventure with her fiancé, and fellow teacher, Stuart.

New to the world of cycling, Claire is now in serious training

The couple plan to cycle to China following ancient and new silk routes from Africa to Asia before heading back to Europe. Despite being a cycling novice, Claire will be riding a bamboo bike made by a social enterprise in Uganda while Stuart rides a tandem keeping the back seat free for those they meet en route who wish to be part of the journey.

Travelling at the pace of 1st century traders, using modern electronics to record the adventure, Claire and stuart will explore the shifting balance of power in the world economy and other geographical, historical, anthropological and linguistic themes in an exciting educational project aimed at students worldwide.

In partnership with Tutor2U, one of the world’s leading educational websites, and working with the British Council’s connecting classrooms programme, the project will see the couple produce blogs, videos, Skype lessons and other educational resources to help young people understand how trade, technology and education have helped shape economic development over the centuries.

They are also raising money and awareness for two educational charities, one in Africa and one in Asia. Claire will be posting regularly to keep us up to date with her and Stuart’s progress and you can read her first post, about how they are preparing for this huge challenge, on Tuesday September 9.

How do you want to feel when you look back at your life?

Posted on 2015-08-28 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

An update from DWYL HQ – August ’15

Posted on 2015-08-28 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

This month’s DWYL news round up is brought to you by our Senior Editor, Rachel Kempton.

Do What You Love HQ has been buzzing with activity as Beth and Paul enjoy precious time as a family and bond with their new baby daughter, Maia. While Beth takes some well-deserved maternity leave (and pursues her own special passion project during Maia’s naps!) Paul and the team are as focussed on work as ever and there’s lots of exciting news to report:

1. On a mission: Our Marketing Manager, Vickie, has been on a quest to discover if becoming a digital nomad can help people to sustain a happier life while doing what they love. As part of her mission she flew out to Berlin to attend the first-ever global digital nomad conference, www.dnxglobal.com, an event which helps people discover their passions, find out more about starting a location independent business that fits their lifestyle and balance work and travel. She then stayed in Berlin for a week, living like a local, and working remotely. You can read about her experience here. And if you’d love to see if life on the road is for you, download our brand new FREE resource, Are you cut out to be a Digital Nomad?, here.

2. Loving reading week: When work gets busy we often find ourselves going about our daily business, ticking off things on our to-do lists and forgetting the bigger picture. So this August the team decided to spend five days away from email, Skype, the blog, and social media – and instead spend the week reading. We all read a book on a subject we feel passionately about and then using this for inspiration, drew on our own personal experiences and skill set to come up with plans for new resources to help support people who may be in similar situations. It’s not often that we make the time to focus on one big project without distraction but it’s been amazing to see what happens when we do. Watch this space!

An update on our collaborations

Make Art That Sells (MATS):

1. The Global Talent Search has started and we’ve had over a 1,000 participants! The Grand Prize winner receives two years’ international representation from Lilla Rogers Studio, plus a host of covetable product licenses, and a series of prizes to support the development of their professional career – you can read all about them here. Good luck to everyone who’s taking part!

2. MATS Part A + Part B start in October: If you want to learn how to make your art more commercially-viable n the hottest markets while staying true to yourself then join us for Make Art That Sells, Part A or Part B starting October 19, 2015. These five-week e-courses will give you a great insight into the industry while helping you to build a professional portfolio. You can find out more and register for MATS Part A here, or for MATS Part B here.

Make It In Design (MIID)

1. Register for September’s surface pattern design courses today! If you’re interested in becoming a successful surface pattern designer, or are new to surface design and want to hone your design skills and discover more about what the industry can offer you, check out the latest courses from The Art and Business of Surface Pattern Design: Module 1 – Designing Your way; Module 3 – Monetising Your Designs and The Ultimate Portfolio Builder. All three courses start September 21, 2015.

2. ‘How to build a brand’ video series – coming soon! When it comes to building a thriving business, branding is vital. It takes time and effort to get your branding right, but as anyone who has a successful business knows, it is absolutely worth it in the long run. In Make it in Design’s brand new five-part video series, Rachael Taylor and Patricia van den Akker from The Design Trust take you on an incredible journey to discover what it takes to create a truly brilliant brand. This fabulous new resource is completely FREE and videos start on Monday, September 7, 2015. Sign up here.

3. Rachael at Printsource New York… On August 11 & 12 Rachael Taylor hit NYC for Printsource New York – one of the top surface and textile design shows in the world. Rachael joined the likes of Pantone and Trendstop to deliver two presentations on ‘The Rise of Surface Pattern Design’ and ‘Blazing a New Trail in Surface Pattern Design’ which were really well received. Rachael was thrilled to have the opportunity to meet so many talented creatives from the Make it in Design community who came to see her talk. Read more here.

4. Summer School: Hundreds of designers from over 35 countries took part in this year’s Summer School, where they had the opportunity to work on challenging briefs, connect with other designers and even win some cool prizes. The Make it in Design galleries are now bursting at the seams with awesome designs in response to creative briefs inspired by WGSN trends. Join the waiting list to be the first to hear when Summer School 2016 returns and to be inspired by all the amazing patterns created during the event.

5. Welcome to the HOME edition of MOYO Magazine! Issue 8 of MOYO, the world’s first on-line magazine dedicated to surface pattern design, is out now! This issue is all about the home and it’s packed with ideas and expert advice to help you style-up your house and make it truly feel like yours. Wherever you are on your design journey there’s plenty to inspire you with design briefs, colour stories, student showcases, travel features, news, trend updates, and fascinating interviews with industry experts, including:

Sophie Robinson (our cover star), one of the UK’s top interior stylists who specialises in magazine features, photo shoots, room sets and high street style
Heather Moore, founder of the wildly successful blog, shop, and online business Skinny laMinx
British textile designer Emily Burningham
Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire, the dynamic duo behind the contemporary interiors brand Mini Moderns
Ceramics expert Kate Thorburn of What Kate Loves

For all this FREE goodness, and much more besides, download your copy of MOYO Issue 8 here.

To make sure everyone you know gets to MOYO Magazine too, we’d love you to share it on your website, blog and social media using the following link: https://bit.ly/moyo8 and hashtag #MoyoMagazine

Thought of the month… a little time can go a long way

“Everything changed the day she figured out there was exactly enough time for the important things in her life.” ~ Brian Andreas

During reading week I read Arianna Huffington’s insightful book Thrive, which challenges us to redefine the commonly accepted definition of success. She likens our drive for money and power to two legs of a three-legged stool; it may hold us up temporarily, but sooner or later we’re going to topple over. In order to live a healthy, productive, and meaningful life, she believes that we need a third leg – a Third Metric for defining success – one that is made up of four pillars: well-being, wisdom, wonder and giving. And that these four pillars are pulled together by an overarching goal, which is to reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones and our community.

This section in Chapter 2: Wisdom rang so true for me during my reading week when I parked my usual work duties, removed digital distractions and focussed on nothing but my exciting new project.

“Slow thinking is is intuitive, woolly and creative,” wrote Carl Honoré. “It’s what we do when the pressure is off, and there is time to let ideas simmer on the back burner. It yields rich, nuanced insights and sometimes surprising breakthroughs… the future will belong to those who can innovate – and innovation comes from knowing when to slow down.”

It also served as a valuable reminder that gaining a sense of time affluence – the feeling that you really do have sufficient time to pursue activities that you enjoy and that are personally meaningful – genuinely can lead to greater wellbeing and deeper wisdom.

What activities are meaningful to you in your life and how can you make more time for them?

Until next month,

Rachel

Do What You Love interview – Matthew Robbins

Posted on 2015-08-27 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

Today’s big interview is with event-designer-to-the-stars, Matthew Robbins. Matthew runs his own successful business, Matthew Robbins Designs in New York, and he’s planned weddings and celebrations of all sizes, for all budgets. He really is the go-to guy when it comes to big day quandaries and making events extraordinary.

Matthew’s talent for bringing a client’s vision to life in a way that truly reflects their personal tastes and style is why he is now Martha Stewart’s right-hand wedding expert – a collaboration that’s been going strong for 15 years. As well as contributing regularly to Martha Stewart Weddings and Martha Stewart Living, he has appeared many times as a guest on both the Martha Stewart Show and on Martha Stewart Living Radio. He also features regularly in O Magazine, Sweet Paul, Coastal Living, The Knot, Bridal Guide, InStyle Weddings and Style Me Pretty, and he writes an ongoing blog for The Huffington Post and Stylelist.

Beth and I had the pleasure of meeting Matthew when we took his workshop, ‘Inspired tables’, at The Sweet Paul Makerie, Philadelphia, earlier this year. Together we created four stunning tables by combining a beautiful mix of décor and craft techniques which left us bursting with ideas for how we could make our own celebrations and intimate every day gatherings all the more special back home.

After seeing Matthew in full creative flow, doing what he loves, I just had to find out more about him. I hope you enjoy the interview. ~ Rachel

1. How are you doing what you love?

My professional background is rooted in art and art history. I studied painting and art history in San Francisco and during my college years I worked for many of San Francisco’s best and most renowned event designers. This was my introduction to the world of event design and event planning. It was a natural transition from art making to floral arrangements and beautiful spaces. My love of colour, texture and form are all easy things to find in floral and event design. The same rules for good design still apply. I moved to New York City to continue my art career and of course, I had to work to pay the bills. In working as a freelance designer I slowly developed an interest and a small following. With that little bit of buzz around town I had the confidence to open my own floral and event design studio. I started really, really small and during my first year of business I was lucky enough to be discovered by Martha Stewart.

2. What is it about flowers that captured your heart?

I was immediately in love with floral design because it felt like painting but in a three dimensional form with amazing natural materials. It’s all about the layering of colour, form and texture. It’s about telling a story in the same way a painting tells a story with all of these elements. My mentor, Maria Vella in San Francisco, really opened my eyes to the beauty of a garden and how the essence of a flower can inspire an entire colour palette, mood or overall design. Flowers are also so temporary and I love the fleeting beauty and inspiration they provide. For me, flowers were the perfect route into the event design world, and they have helped me to carve out my own style and business. Now I take a more holistic approach to design, flowers are just one element of the overall vision I have for an event or space.

3. How would you describe your signature style?

My signature style is what I like to refer to as contemporary romantic or effortlessly chic. I love classic, refined and romantic details combined with clean lines, simple and bold shapes and vibrant colour palettes. The combination of old and new is very much a part of my signature eclectic style.

Nature is a constant source of inspiration for me

4. When did you first start working with Martha Stewart Weddings and how did this collaboration come about?

I met Martha and team during my first year of business. I was very lucky to have friends who own a fabulous millinery shop where Martha and her team love to shop. Some of Martha’s top editors were in the store one day and my friends suggested they all check out this new kid in New York City doing great, natural, beautiful work. They followed up and in true Martha style they reached out immediately after seeing some of my work. Before the first year of my business was complete I had a huge feature story in Martha Stewart Wedding and I did the cover of the magazine. I remember the day I was in the Martha Stewart Weddings office reviewing the feature because Martha called in to say how impressed she was and how she wanted me on her show right away. That was the beginning of 15 years as contributing editor to Martha’s magazine and company, along with styling some of the most signature flower stories in the Weddings magazine.

Me on the Martha Stewart Show talking about my book

5. Who inspired you to write your first book Matthew Robbins’ Inspired Weddings?

I was lucky enough to do design a wedding for a fabulous literary agent in New York City. She happens to own the agency and when I did her wedding she suggested it was time to do a Matthew Robbins book. I thought it was a glamorous idea but I didn’t feel I was ready. I waited a few years, strengthened my relationship with the press and gained more accolades and finally decided it was the right time. I felt inspired to create a book that offered a new way of thinking about weddings and design for events. Many of the books out there are just filled with over the top, old school designs and they don’t really provide any real tools or inspiration for how to think like a stylist or an artist. I wanted to empower the client, the reader, or the bride or groom to find his or her own vision and style. My book is a wonderful resource for design inspiration, even if you aren’t planning a wedding!

6. In the introduction to your book you say: ‘I like to encourage couples to think of their wedding as the largest dinner party they’ve ever thrown’. Is the secret to planning the perfect event?

This is the foundation of my philosophy and my approach and it is very much an integral part of how I plan and design events. For most people a wedding is the first opportunity to really define their sense of style as a couple and for their new life together. It’s a wonderful moment to infuse an incredible celebration with a personal and authentic style. If you think of the wedding as a fabulous dinner party it not only removes some of the stress but it allows everyone to enjoy the details and remember that they are hosting and entertaining. Being a great host means considering the small details but also making sure that your unique style, personality and vision for your perfect party shines through.

7. What floral trends are you seeing at the moment, and which flowers and colour schemes do you love most right now?

I’m seeing a return to using vibrant colour. For many years it was all about soft, dreamy blush and vintage tones but I think trends are moving away from these muted palettes and embracing clean, crisp colour again. Purple is very popular at the moment along with deep blue tones and copper as a replacement for gold or silver.

8. What are the biggest challenges facing you in your business and in the floral/events industry in general?

The event design or any design related industry is faced with many challenges now as there is an abundance of images and inspiration available for free and online. Clients often feel they have seen it all because they spend hours on Pinterest and they are obsessed with everything being original. I find it disconcerting that most people tend to forget that everything is related and design and art has a real history. Good design is always referential and it circles back to trends, rules and inspiration form the past. Nothing is truly original but what is original is how we all interpret these things and make them our own. The wedding and event design world is flooded with new businesses and this is also challenging, especially as many of these new businesses have no background in design. Having a background in design is essential because it enables you to navigate your way through all the different challenges you encounter in this industry, from client briefs, to new projects to the ups and downs of daily business as creative entrepreneur.

9. You are working on a new book – what can you tell us about it?

Well (hopefully!) it will be out by Spring 2016. In it I go back to my roots, and explore my love of art and flowers. It will focus more on designing events for smaller parties, like entertaining easily at home with family or friends, rather than ideas for big celebrations or weddings.

Designing for a more intimate gathering

10. As well as running flowers schools and design workshops all over the world, you’ve recently started hosting big design events. What can people expect from an inspired luxury excursion with you and when and where is your next one?

Teaching workshops at Flower School Beijing, June ’15

My next excursion is to Guatemala on November 1-7, 2016. This will be a trip filled with some seriously gorgeous inspiration including locally made textiles, traditional cooking classes and even a Mayan cleansing ceremony by a local Shaman. We have a few spaces available for anyone looking for a great adventure filled with beautiful details! Email [email protected] for information.

11. What advice would you give to someone wanting to do what you’re doing now?

Be persistent and really, really believe in your vision. There will be many obstacles and challenges financially, emotionally and in general it’s just not easy starting your own business in a very saturated market. If you want to develop a name for yourself you must be persistent in all of your efforts to network, get noticed, develop a brand and a clear vision for what your work is all about. I also recommend growing your business slowly. Focus on the goal or goals that really matter and try to ignore al of the other chatter.

12. What’s your ultimate dream?

My dream is to live somewhere far away from New York City with a fabulous interior design/home design boutique in a chic, coastal village somewhere warm and tropical. I also want to have a whole series of books all focused on design and entertaining along with a line of beautiful products. All of these dreams are in the works so I will keep you posted!

13. Finally what are your top five floral arrangement secrets?

Keep your selection of flowers limited. Don’t mix too many things or too many colours. Going monochromatic and simple will lead to an easier and more beautiful final product.
Stay seasonal. Get inspired by the season and allow these materials to inspire your designs.
Always start with foliage. Create a shape and a structure by starting with beautiful foliage or branches. This allows for an easier and more natural arrangement.
Don’t cut your flowers too short! I see this problem in many of my classes. Students will often chop a stem much too short for their vase before they have a structure or shape developed.
Allow the natural shapes and movement of the flowers to define the shape and spirit of your arrangement. Don’t try forcing things to do things they wouldn’t do in nature.

Hunting and gathering for inspiration

Matthew’s snapshot

What flower would you be and why? Sweet pea because they are effortless, light and unfussy.

Where should there always be fresh flowers in a home? In the entry area or hall and in your bedroom. These are two great places to enjoy flowers and/or plants. You enter your living space in the morning seeing something fresh, organic and inspiring and you end your day with something natural and beautiful.

Biggest career highlight to date: That’s a hard one… probably seeing my first book finished, published and on bookshelves across the world – it’s an amazing feeling and incredibly rewarding. I’m proud of many other things too – there are too many too list!

Three designers who most inspire you: Kelly Wearstler and Alberto Pinto from the interior design world and from flower world, Christian Tortu.

Best way to overcome creative block: Travel to a new place.

Place you go to feel inspired: The ocean or a beautiful garden.

Quote you live by: “Be curious, not judgmental” ~ Walt Whitman

Wish for the world: I would just love for everyone to open their eyes to the inspiration and beauty found in the small things, in the details. We live in a world of sweeping generalisations and where everyone strives to do things bigger and better. It would be nice if we could all appreciate the small things that inspire our big plans and grand ideas.

For more information on Matthew’s work and his book, visit www.matthewrobbinsdesign.com

MOYO issue 8 is out now!

Posted on 2015-08-26 at 11:56 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

Welcome to the HOME edition of MOYO Magazine!

With autumn almost here, we’re not only rethinking our wardrobes, we’re also wondering how to integrate new-season home trends into our interiors. Luckily help is at hand! This issue is packed with inspirational ideas and expert advice to help you style-up your house and make it truly feel like yours.

Wherever you are on your design journey you’ll love this issue – and it’s completely free!

Our 111-page ‘Home’ Issue 8 is packed with design briefs, colour stories, travel features, reviews, student showcases, news, trend updates, and fascinating interviews with industry experts, including:

Sophie Robinson, one of the UK’s top interior stylists who specialises in magazine features, photo shoots, room sets and high street style
Heather Moore, founder of the wildly successful blog, shop, and online business Skinny laMinx
British textile designer Emily Burningham
Keith Stephenson and Mark Hampshire, the dynamic duo behind the contemporary interiors brand Mini Moderns
Ceramics expert Kate Thorburn of What Kate Loves

PLUS

Top tips for building a brand from surface pattern design brand Surfacephilia
Tricks of the trade show with award-winning illustrator and surface pattern designer Abigail Borg
Behind the scenes on a Make it in Design photoshoot
Practical advice on protecting your work from Dids Macdonald
Make your own mouse pad with Bonnie Christine
Designer Diary: Laura Slater
Your guide to designing for wallpaper by Jessica Hogarth
More information about upcoming surface pattern design courses with Make it in Design
And much more besides!

(more…)

What do you love about adventure?

Posted on 2015-08-24 at 2:06 pm.

Written by Beth Kempton

What do you love about adventure? The Do What You Love team share their thoughts…

VICKIE: For me, adventure is always accompanied by a sense of excitement, anticipation and novelty. Maybe even a little bit of fear, but in a good way! There is something strangely comforting in finding yourself alone with your backpack on the other side of the world. Letting go of what I know makes me feel like I am a part of something bigger and it is very refreshing.

RACHEL: This year my mantra is: “say yes to new experiences”. So instead of questioning why an opportunity has come my way, I just embrace it. I figure that by saying yes instead of no:

1) I have nothing to lose, and lots to gain!

2) I’ll feel more positive and excited about life

3) I’ll learn and grow

4) I’ll enrich my quality of life and make possibility a reality for me, and my family.

5) I’ll be more confident when it comes to making big decisions.

LOUISE: Life is an adventure! I like to think of everyday as a new start, a new journey, a new adventure. Letting the flow take me, embracing what may show up. Adventure to me is also growing, expanding and trying something new. Following our intuition will lead to many more new adventures.

PAUL: My sense of adventure had been repressed a little until I met my wife. She reminded me of the wonders that lie just an adventure away. I didn’t need a destination just a desire to go. We live in a world full of inspiration and allowing ourselves to be inspired is the first step towards the courage to venture forth. I look forward to sharing my adventures with my girls.

What are your thoughts? What do you love about adventure?

Food for thought at The Little Beach Hut of Dreams

Posted on 2015-08-19 at 8:55 am.

Written by Beth Kempton

In the spirit of summer we’re delighted to bring you this post from lifestyle blogger Niomi Smart who packed a delicious picnic to enjoy at The Little beach Hut of Dreams….

Last week I was lucky enough to spend the day in the ‘Little Beach Hut Of Dreams‘ in Hove, Brighton, so I whipped up lots of delicious food in preparation for a delicious picnic by the sea.

The beach hut is beautifully decorated in greys, whites and pale pinks, and there are comfy seats with big fluffy cushions to help you get comfortable while you dream the day away. As it’s the height of summer (although you’d never know from the windy weather!), I thought I’d make this video to share a few of my fresh and healthy recipes, which are perfect to pack up and enjoy on-the-go. They’re all listed below, too. I hope you enjoy!

Fruit skewers

strawberries
blueberries
raspberries
melon chunks
grapes

1. Chop the strawberries into chunks, and slide onto a skewer. Follow with a blueberry, then a raspberry and finish with another strawberry chunk.

2. Repeat with the melon and grapes.

Corn on the cobs

2 corn on the cobs

1. Pre-heat the oven to 200C.

2. Wrap in tin foil and place in the oven.

2. Bake for 30-40 minutes.

Salsa

2 cups cherry tomatoes
1/4 red onion
1/2 lime, juiced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 red chilli
Himalayan salt & pepper to taste
handful fresh coriander leaves
1/4 cucumber, chopped

1. Place all of the ingredients into a food processor apart from the coriander and cucumber and pulse until the tomatoes and onions are chopped to the consistency that you would like the salsa.

2. If there is a lot of liquid from the tomatoes, spoon out the excess liquid. Transfer into a container with a lid.

3. Chop the cucumber into small chunks and pick a handful of coriander leaves and stir into the salsa.

4. Store in the fridge for up to three days.

Butternut squash & buckwheat salad

1 cup uncooked bulgar wheat
1/2 butternut squash
salad leaves
1 cup chopped cherry tomatoes
1 tsp dried mixed herbs
1 tsp paprika
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
handful fresh coriander

1. Peel the skin from the butternut squash and chop into about 1 inch thick chunks. Steam for about 20 minutes or until soft.

2. Cook the buckwheat according the the instructions and allow to cool.

3. When the buckwheat and butternut squash are cool, transfer to a large bowl and stir in all the remaining ingredients.

Fresh mint & orange water (serves 2)

10 fresh mint leaves
1/2 large orange
1 lime

1. Slice the orange and lime into slices and divide into two glasses.

2. Add the fresh mint leaves to the glasses and top with water.

Naomi’s outfit: Dress – ASOS, bag – Skinnydip, shoes – ASOS, sunglasses – Quay Australia

To find out more about Niomi, visit her website.