Vintage Amethyst

You + Me = Us

2012-01-30T12:59:00.000Z

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This weeks
*Product of the Week*

are these rather fab
You + Me = Us signs

as they have been soooo popular over the last couple of weeks & they have arrived back in stock today!!!

These are so popular for weddings & I've just given some friends of ours one as a wedding gift & lately have been so popular for Valentines Day gifts too!

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This is a really wonderfully large sign in a vintage style with the words You + Me = Us.
These are sweet for any couple & are perfect as a gift.
They can be propped up or hung on a wall as they have 2 hooks on the back for hanging.
These are so lovely for vintage style weddings with their lovely rustic look & perfect as a wedding gift too.

These are sweet to have in your wedding venue room but also wonderful to use in your wedding day or engagement photo shoot, so cute as a photography prop.
The signs are big & measure 66cms long & 16cms wide.

They are only £12 & you can find them *here*

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* A Pretty Vignette*

2012-01-25T12:51:00.001Z

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When I'm taking photos for the website I create little vignettes & have lots of different photos to choose from. But I can only pick one photo for the product on the website so often others get deleted or if I particularly like them I keep them & they end up getting stored on Flickr!

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I have been taking some new product photos these last few days & have uploaded them to Flickr & whilst I was there I was browsing different photos & I found this photo which I had taken a while ago.

It was one of the product shots I took of the pretty vintage style photo frame (which you can find *here*) & I really like it ~ wonder why I didn't use it!!!

*smiles quizically*

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Anyhoo, the photo frame is obviously from the Vintage Amethyst Boutique, the little pot of roses tends to crop up from time to time in photos as I love it so!

I bought the roses about 7 years ago now, they are foam faux roses but are so so pretty.

They have bendy stems, so I bend the stems & placed them in this small plain white pot from Ikea.

I think they look pretty in this pot as you can't see the stems & it tends to be the stems of faux flowers that look bad I always think.

The metal pitcher is one I bought a few years ago in a sale. I can't remember how much it was but it was only cheap I remember. I was a pale blue but everywhere I put it it just didn't fit in very well. It was a lovely pale blue but everywhere it was placed it just seemed like the wrong blue so I decided to give it a little makeover & got some cream spray paint & painted it!

The cute little cabinet that they are sitting on was a wonderful thrifty find a few years ago, but I've painted it since. It does tend to crop up in photos & I have promised before to do a blog post dedicated to it as it really is a sweetie but alas I haven't as of yet!!!

But I must!

I must!!!

*giggle*

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

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Sweet Heart Memo Holder

2012-01-23T11:34:00.000Z

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This weeks
*Product of the Week*

are these really cute wire heart memo/card holders.

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A wonderfully large vintage style memo holder in cream. A huge heart to hold all those special cards, mememtos, notes or reminders you wish to keep.
For all you gardeners our there, why not use it as a place to keep all your packets of seeds in your potting shed?
A very beautiful item for any home and perfect as gift for a special someone.
An absolutely perfect way to keep all those Christmas cards tidy.

This is also a really cute way to display your wedding table plan too.
Just slot cards or memos into each little heart.
Heart measures a lovely big 22 inches by 20 inches.

They are only £12 each & you can find them *here*

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Cath Kidston Giveaway

2012-01-18T13:01:00.000Z

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Have you seen the latest Cath Kidston giveaway?

Well it is perfect for those of you passionate about sewing!!!

Calling all sewing enthusiasts!

Cath Kidston have linked up with the Bedruthan Steps Hotel in Cornwall to run a series of sewing weekends to celebrate our love of all things creative. Expert staff will host a step by step course showing you how to make 2 exciting projects from Cath's latest book Patch! The Weekend includes two nights accommodation, meals, homemade refreshments and everything you need to make the 2 projects from the book, all worth £340.

There are 2 breaks run by Lisa Comfort from London Sewing Café 'Sew Over It' taking place from March 9th - 11th and May 11th - 13th 2012.

To enter just pop along to the website *here*

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Lovely Email

2012-01-17T15:43:00.000Z

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Last week I received a really lovely email from a customer that I would love to share with you ...

Dear Alison,

It is not often I take the time and trouble to thank a supplier for something I have ordered from them. Today, however, I am going to make a big exception.

The "Home Sweet Home" Heart from you is lovely and more than worth the price you charged on your website.

Your detail to the packaging and the presentation of my order is the best I have ever encountered from an Internet purchase.

Absolutely superb in fact.

You can take from this feedback that I am totally delighted with my purchase from you. For that I wish to thank you!

Best wishes,

Andrew

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Isn't that a wonderful email & it is so lovely to receive such wonderful feedback.
I'm lucky as I often get lovely emails & as with this one, I am always touched that someone has taken the time in this busy world to write & say thank you.

Pretty Home Sweet Home Wooden Garland

2012-01-16T12:29:00.001Z

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This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really pretty

Home Sweet Home Garlands.

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The garland is made with wooden hearts which are painted white & lightly distressed, 3 larger & 2 smaller. The larger hearts feature the wording HOME SWEET HOME.

Perfect for a Shabby Chic or Vintage Style home.
The garland is hung on natural twine & is finished with 2 loops at either end for hanging.
The garland measures approx. 82 cms from end to end & the larger hearts measure 8 cms tall & the smaller hearts 4 cms tall.

They are only £6.50 each & you can find them *here*

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Happy Saturday

2012-01-14T12:52:00.000Z

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Sorry cuties that not much blogging has been going on this week & has been such a busy week at the boutique for wedding orders, as it usually it in January, so I seemed to have lacked time to blog!

Anyhoo, hope you have a totally sweet weekend lovelies!

*Happy Saturday*

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It's Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound pop along to see lots of pink blogging!

International Orders

2012-01-10T14:50:00.000Z

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I've made a decision & a difficult one at that, which I have mulled over for many weeks now, which unfortunately affects international customers.
I'm afraid I've decided to stop posting internationally at the moment due to the fact that over the last 6 months so many orders posted to different countries are being damaged or being lost!

It seems as if lately it is every other parcel that is damaged or lost & this costs me time & money, not to say stress as I want all my customers to be happy customers & when things arrived damaged or not at all (!) I feel as if I personally have let them down.
I must say though that all Vintage Amethyst customers are so lovely & understanding & I'm glad to say not one has been nasty at all, which I really appreciate as I know how frustrating it can be when things don't arrive as you imagined.

So I'm sorry to say that as of last night I have ceased taking international orders on the website.
All the international order that were placed over the last few days have been posted yesterday so they will (hopefully!) be with you very soon.

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Thank you to all my wonderful international customers, I appreciate your custom & love of Vintage Amethyst as you all send me such lovely emails which I love but I hope you will understand my decision.

Romantic Vintage Style Rose Garland

2012-01-09T11:16:00.000Z

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Well it's a new year & the weekly

*Product of the Week*

is back!

So this week it is these wonderfully pretty pale pink rose garlands.

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Bring a touch of romantic elegance into your home or wedding with this beautiful vintage style soft pink rose garland.
This incredibly pretty garland is made from wire and so can be placed and draped in any position you wish.
Drape over mirrors, place along dressers, adorn the top of a fireplace, pretty for bedstands or for laying across the middle of dining tables.
For weddings they look so beautiful wrapped around wire cake stands or birdcages, candlesticks centre pieces, or simply draped over your tables.

These beautiful garlands look absolutely perfect anywhere you place them.

The garland measures approximately 6 feet long.
Also available in ivory *here*

They are only £10 each & you can find them *here*

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Happy New Year

2012-01-04T14:54:00.000Z

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*Happy New Year*

Aahh happy new year lovelies!

Goodness hasn't the time flown lately, I can't believe it is January the 4th & I'm only getting round to wishing you all happy new year!

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I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season.
I've had a horrid rotten cold since Christmas Eve & still have it now so it's been a rather quiet tiring sort of holiday time for us!

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Goodness 2012 already, I can't quite believe it!

As most of you know 2011 was the worst year of my life with my lovely Mummy passing away from cancer & the tragedy of my 24 year old niece collapsing suddenly one morning & her heart stopping & finding out it was a simple virus that she had had a few weeks before that had unfortuately attacked her heart too without any warning signs.

I never would have thought at the happy start of 2011 that that is what the year had in store for our close family. I feel like a completely different person to a year ago, which feels odd. I am still pyhscially & mentally numb from what 2011 gave me & I can only hope that 2012 brings me & all my family a peaceful year.

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I wish to thank all the wonderful people who have shown such kindness to me in 2011 & I wish love, good health & happiness to each one of you & your precious families this year.

Lots of love to you all & I hope you will continue to visit me here on the blog, at the boutique, on facebook & twitter throughout 2012!!!

♥♥♥

Disney to donate £10 for every Disney memory shared

2011-12-28T18:56:00.000Z

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In the true spirit of Christmas, Disney Junior will donate £10 to Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity for every memory shared as part of the Million Disney Memories campaign for the month of December!

How wonderful is that?

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GOSH is asking the nation to share their first Disney Memories as part of our special Million Disney Memories campaign, in partnership with Disney Junior.

And, for every memory posted in December, Disney Junior will generously donate £10 to the charity up to a total of £1 million.

Whether it’s a first trip to Disneyland, crying your eyes out watching Bambi or gathered on the sofa eating mince pies whilst watching Beauty and The Beast on VHS, each memory will be turned into a vital donation for the children’s hospital charity.

How to share your memory

There are three simple ways you can share your memory:

Add it to the Disney barometer on Facebook

Email it to million@disney.co.uk

Send a tweet to @_DisneyMemories

It'll only take a moment but you'll be helping make a huge impact on the work of

Great Ormond Street Hospital.

The more memories collected, the more Disney will donate!

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My first memory of Disney is of Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs.

It was my first trip to the cinema aged 3 & I went with my friends family.

The parents were friends with my parents & I went with the mother, my little best friend & her 2 sisters.

It was the most magical experience ever. Being in such a big space with red velvet chairs & red velvet curtains & seeing this wonderful Disney cartoon on a huge screen!!!

If I remember rightly I think I did fall asleep for the end but I was only 3!

*giggle*

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I have shared my memory with Disney via twitter so go & share yours with Disney & help the wonderful Great Ormond Street Hospital!

Merry Christmas Everyone

2011-12-24T09:26:00.000Z

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*eek*

Can you believe it is Christmas Eve!!!

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I thought I would take this opportunity to share a few photos of our decorations this year.

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I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas sharing good times with your loved ones.

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Have a wonderful time everyone!

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And to my wonderful husband James ...

*Happy 7th Anniversary*

All my love to you ...

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These Make Christmas for Me!

2011-12-23T12:20:00.000Z

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Two of our favourite Christmas shows from our childhood that both James & I have to watch every year are The Box of Delights & The Children of Green Knowe!

These really do make Christmas for me, they are such Christmassy shows & I remember how exciting it was to watch them as a child in the run up to Christmas!!!

Watch The Box of Delights opening above!
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The opening did kind of scare me a little but in that good exciting way!

How wonderful is that music, ooohhh it just takes you off to a far away world doesn't it?

James bought me The Box of Delights book last year along with it's prequel The Midnight Folk, both written by John Masefield.
♥

Currently we have two Box of Delights episodes to watch yet & we have to start on the Children of Green Knowe but it is so wonderful to watch on Christmas Eve!!!
Oh I can't begin to tell you how I love these two childrens drama's they are sooooooo wonderful & are Christmas to me!

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Do you remember these wonderful festive shows?
Do you have certain things you have to watch each & every Christmas?
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* A few Christmas Crafts*

2011-12-22T13:41:00.000Z

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Assembled in minutes out of common home supplies — star cookie cutters, silver paper clips, and red twist ties — this charming creation is a cinch to craft.

On a flat surface, arrange cutters into a circular shape as shown; clip together where stars touch. Carefully flip wreath over and secure the same spots with additional paper clips. Tightly twist ties around these sections as shown. Evergreen sprig optional.

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Create noteworthy ornaments that show off favorite songs.

Copy sheet music; then gather scissors, white glue, ribbon, cording from a trim or crafts store, and a corrugated cardboard box (break it down and peel apart the layers to reveal ridged sheets). Cut out stars (see template below) from cardboard and music; tie bows of cording; layer stars and bows as shown; glue. Once dry, glue a ribbon loop to the top back of each ornament to hang.

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Skip traditional popcorn and cranberry garlands this year, and take a cue from the Sugar Plum Fairy: Colorful candy strands are a magical way to dress your mantel or tree. To create these sugary swags, all you need is a sizable stash of wrapped treats and an ordinary office stapler. Simply staple the ends of the wrappers together in a regular pattern. (For dramatic dips, make sure the garlands are at least double the length of the surface from which you will drape them.) Use candy of one color for a monochromatic look -- or, for a more playful statement, mix and match a variety of shades. Once you've strung the pieces together, pin or tape the ends and sections to the mantel. Finally, be sure to place a few dishes of chocolate and candy nearby, so guests won't be tempted to snack on your delectable decor.

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You can whip up these mini men in minutes. Roll pieces of marzipan into balls and dip them into confectioners' sugar; connect with toothpicks. Use marzipan dyed red to shape the hat and scarf and dyed orange for the nose. Finishing touches: brown toothpick arms and tiny chocolate chips for the eyes, mouth, and buttons.

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From: Good Housekeeping

Country Christmas Look

2011-12-21T09:17:00.001Z

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I love this relaxed Country Christmas look.

With it's mis-matched furniture & clean white walls it is a perfect relaxed country Christmas look for entertaining isn't it, especially at Christmas when you may need extra chairs & even tables in some cases for guests!

The painted trestle table is a perfect 'emergency' or entertaining table isn't it?

If you paint all the furniture in shades of white they will of course all look totally at home with one another. Pop on a pretty table cloth & your good to go!

I also think I spot a Hanging Heart Candle Holder in the fireplace & you know where you can get those from don't you, yes Vintage Amethyst of course, just pop along *here*

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This pretty room is from Country Homes & Interiors via the House to Home website.

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Candy Cane Cocktail

2011-12-20T10:38:00.000Z

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Oh my, hows this for a festive tipple!

A Candy Cane Cocktail!!!!

How cute is that little teeny weeny candy cane on the glass!!!!

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It is from the ever wonderful Martha Stewart & here is the how to ...

Ingredients

1 candy cane, crushed, for garnish
2 ounces strawberrry vodka
4 dashes white creme de menthe
2 1/2 ounces cranberry juice
Ice cubes

Directions

Place crushed candy canes on a small plate or saucer. Wet the outside rim of a chilled martini glass with water. Holding the glass by the stem, rotate the rim to coat with candy.
In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, creme de menthe, cranberry juice, and ice; shake until well combined. Strain into prepared glass; serve immediately.

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Spiced Cranberry & Orange Relish

2011-12-19T10:44:00.000Z

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This is one of the recipes I love from the book & blogged about yesterday.

Spiced Cranberry & Orange Relish.

This is soooo lovely, I haven't got around yet to making any this year so I'm afraid only a quick snap shot out of the book as a photo.

I will have to get some made this week though as it is my favourite!

This recipe makes about 450g.

Ingredients:

225g frest cranberries

1 onion, finely chopped

150ml port (although I think I generally use what's in the house at the time!!!!)

115g caster sugar

finely grated rind & juice of 1 orange

½ tsp english mustard power

¼ tsp ground ginger

¼ tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp cornflour

50g raisins

How to:

♥ Put the cranberries, onion, port and sugar in a pan. Cook gently for 10 mins until tender.

♥ Mix the orange juice, mustard, spices and cornflour together. Stir them into the cranberries.

♥ Add the raisins and orange rind. Allow to thicken over the heat, stirring with a wooden spoon

and then simmer for 2 mins.

♥ Cool, cover and chill ready for serving.

♥

I have made this for other people & they seem to love it as much as me.

Much nicer than cranberry sauce from a jar for your Christmas dinner.

I have also served it for parties to accompany a cheese board & it is delicious with cheeses too.

Hope you love it too!

A Christmas Companion

2011-12-18T09:05:00.000Z

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This is my wonderful 'A Christmas Companion' book.

It comes out every Christmas.

It was a Christmas gift from my Mum about 12 years ago & the funny thing was is that the year before I had borrowed it from the library & loved it & so had borrowed it again that year too & my Mum didn't know!!! So when I received it as one of my Christmas gifts I was delighted as I knew it would be in use year after year!

It is a huge book, full of wonderful festive recipes & crafts. Some of the crafts are slightly dated now as the craft world has come on in leaps & bounds over the last few years hasn't it, but when I look through the crafts in the book they are almost like a starting off point & you think of ways to change them to make them into more wonderful things.

There are also some sweet craft ideas to do with children too.

♥

When I was looking through it this year I was saddened as of course this is the first Christmas without my Mum here but then it dawned on me that this is one of those wonderful books that I would like to pass down to any child I have in the future & hopefully their children too. Although tastes & fashions will change, I hope it will be a wonderful representation of a family Christmas & how I received it one Christmas from my mother & hopefully some of these recipes will stand the test of time & perhaps become good old family recipes!

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A Festive Wellyboot!

2011-12-17T10:06:00.001Z

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Oohhh just how cute is this!?!?

I found the idea on the House to Home website.

I don't think it will replace the traditional stocking but it is a really cute way to display pressies!

♥

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Closing for the Holidays!

2011-12-16T08:34:00.000Z

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Today is the last day for Christmas shopping!

The Vintage Amethyst boutique will be closed for the holidays from 6pm tonight!

So if you are wanting to place an order please make sure you do it today!

*Thank You*

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What would I like for Christmas ...

2011-12-15T14:53:00.000Z

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Perhaps Holly Golightly's house?

The Manhattan brownstone where Holly Golightly lived in Breakfast at Tiffany's has gone on the market for $5.85 million!!!!

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The four-story house played a big role in the 1961 movie, which starred Audrey Hepburn as socialite Golightly and George Peppard as Paul Varjak, an aspiring writer and new neighbor who serves as her love interest.
While the exterior was used in many shots, it's unclear whether any of the interior was featured in the movie.

But I don't mind, I would so love to live there!

Shall I put it on my Christmas wish list?

*wink*

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A White Christmas

2011-12-14T14:28:00.000Z

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Isn't this pretty?

Wonderful festive inspiration from House to Home.

Liven up a mantelpiece with a fresh-looking Christmas display. Use vintage-style lettering to spell out your festive message, add twinkle with fairy lights, and finish with a few sprays of mistletoe. Classic decorating, minimal effort.

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I know I posted this festive bed last year but I think it is pretty enough to look upon again, don't you!

Hang an array of stockings in different colors and textures at the foot of the bed to incorporate the holiday spirit into this room.

From Country Living US

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Isn't this a fun table setting idea for Christmas?

Decorate your table for a party with mini sparklers.

Stick them into large chocolates or desserts for a surprise display, then light them just before guests enter the room!

For the final finishing touch, scatter metallic foil stars across the tablecloth for an extra glam look

From House to Home

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This is pretty.

This doily tree-topper conjures images of folktales and snow-dusted forests.

Find out how to do this *here*

From Martha Stewart

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Give guests a token of your love by baking little biscuits and placing them on their plates.

Tie the ribbon around the plates and napkin for a professional finishing touch.
From Ideal Home

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How lovely is this?

Snowflake doilies!

A cascade of vintage handmade doilies treated with fabric stiffener forms a fanciful snowfall in the window.

From Martha Stewart

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I hope you like these pretty white Christmas inspirations as much as me ...

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Pretty Christmas Tree Inspiration

2011-12-13T15:10:00.000Z

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How adorable is this festive photo!

It is pretty inspiration from Matha Stewart.

'Consider a monochromatic scheme.
For this tree, we used only red and white ornaments to create a festive display.'

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Linen Scented Hanging Christmas Trees

2011-12-12T09:39:00.000Z

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Well it is almost Christmas, not long to go now & Vintage Amethyst will be closing on Friday

for the holiday so this will be the last week for shopping.

It also means that it is the last *Product of the Week* for a few weeks too & this week it is these

really lovely linen hanging Christmas trees!

♥

These are absolutely lovely Christmas decorations.
Pretty red hanging trees made from linen with a pretty embroidered front which is finished with some snowflakes & pretty buttons including adorable heart shaped buttons.
The trees hang from a pretty red & white gingham hanger & each tree is scented with cinnamon & cloves which gives a lovely Christmas aroma.
These are also available in a natural colour too.
Each tree measures 15 cms tall excluding hanger.

They are only £3 each & they are also available in a natural colour too!

Find these red trees *here* & the natural trees *here*

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Candy Cane Marshmallows

2011-12-10T10:58:00.000Z

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How pretty & adorable do these Candy Cane Marshmallows look from

the homemaking goddess that is Martha Stewart?

'Give out homemade treats that are great in hot cocoa -- or straight from the bag.

Peppermint marshmallows are easy to make; they get their red swirl from a quick marbleizing technique. Follow our recipe, then package them in small cellophane bags to show off their good looks. Fold the top of each bag over once, and staple it shut. Use a small hole punch on either side of the staple. Thread a length of red twine through the holes, and knot it in front. Pull one end through a gift tag, and finish with a bow.'

Pop along *here* for the recipe for these cuties!

♥

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Pretty Sea Inspired Christmas Tree

2011-12-09T07:38:00.000Z

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I just love how pretty this Christmas tree looks.

It is from Martha Stewart & here is what they say ...

'Channeling childhood summers spent on Cape Cod, crafts director Hannah Milman created a from-the-sea tree. These shell ornaments are dusted with two shades of glitter and blended for a dazzling ombre effect.'

Find out how to make these decorations just pop along *here*

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Festive Pretties

2011-12-08T09:17:00.000Z

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There is still time to buy some pretty Christmas goodies to make your home all lovely & festive this year.

I thought I would post a couple you may not have seen.

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Above we have a really sweet festive Christmas Wreath.

The wreath is made from twisted willow & features a handpainted wooden hanging heart with a cute little button on. The wreath is finished with a bow of festive red & white gingham ribbon.

A really lovely festive wreath to hang on your door this Christmas or alternatively just place on the fireplace mantel, dresser or shelves, this wreath looks equally good hung or standing.

These are a bargain at only £4.50 & you can find them *here*

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Also I have these really cute red & white gingham hanging hearts which are just pefect to add to your Christmas decorations.

Hang from door or drawer knobs on the edge of mirrors or pictures or simply just hang from your tree.

The heart features a large wooden button with a bow.

Such a sweet Shaker style decoration which would be perfect all year round too!

These are only £2 each & you can find them *here*

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Vintage Amethyst is open for just over a week now & will be closing on Friday 16th December for the holidays, so be quick to do your Christmas shopping!

Visit the Christmas Collection *here* for sweet festive decorations & don't forget if you still need any gifts the Vintage Amethyst Boutique is absolutely full of pretty ideas, so pop along *here*

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Festive Favourites

2011-12-07T08:47:00.000Z

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*squeal*

It is nearly Christmas!

Have you decorated your tree yet & made your home all lovely & festive?

We are doing our festive decorating on Saturday night, I'm so excited as we have a fab night with plenty of bubbly & festive nibbles with old Christmas songs playing!

Anyhoo to keep me going I thought I would share some of my festive flickr favourites!

Aren't these photos so sweet?

Do pop along & visit these talented folk by clicking the links below ...

1. white christmas tree cookies, 2. Laternenzeit, 3. silver bells, 4. White stars

♥

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Gifts £3 & Under!!!

2011-12-06T09:13:00.000Z

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You know you get great value gifts at Vintage Amethyst don't you?

So as the festive season is upon us I have put together a list of pretty gift ideas for

£3 & under!!!!

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This is a really pretty wooden hanging heart.

The heart is painted white with distressed edges & features the wording LOVE, the heart hangs from natural twine.

Such a lovely little gift idea & perfect for any home.

Only £3 each, find them *here*

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This is a really lovely set of 2 individual wooden hanging hearts.

The hearts are lightweight & are very rustic french in style, each hearts has a painted floral wreath & the word Love inside, they hang from twine which adds to their lovely country feel.

Only £2.50 for the set of 2 & you can find them *here*

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These are such a sweet candle holder.

Little ivory coloured pails with a heart details.

They also have a little handle so would look so cute hung from trees.

A sweet little gift idea.

Only £1.75 each, find them *here*

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A pretty way to present photos or cards.
A simple off white heart which you slot a photo or card into.
A sweet little gift idea.

Only £1.50 each & you can find them *here*

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A pretty white hanging heart.
The heart is made from zinc & the front is painted white.
The heart is finished with a sweet dimpled effect which included dimpled hearts & they hang from natural twine.
They have a lovely simple Swedish style to them & look pretty placed anywhere in the home.

These are only £2 each & you can find them *here*

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A pretty button hanging heart made with white buttons.

A simple little item to hang anywhere in the home.

A sweet little gift idea.

These are only £2.50 & can be found *here*

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A really adorable little shelf sitter with the word LOVE in white.

Perfect for any home & a really lovely little gift idea.

These are only £3 each, find them *here*

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This is a really pretty wooden hanging heart.

The heart is painted white with distressed edges & features the wording WELCOME, the heart hangs from natural twine & would be perfect in a hallway or by your door.

Such a lovely little gift idea & perfect for any home.

These are only £3 each & you can find them *here*

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This is a really pretty romantic candle holder.

A pretty glass heart with has a ridged outer edge so when a candle is lit throws beautiful rays of light all around it.

Such a pretty little item & so vintage & romantic in style.

Absolutely perfect as a pretty gift idea.

These are only £3 each & can be found *here*

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This is a wonderfully retro style mug.

The mug is cream with red vintage style lettering saying Tea Time, and who doesn't love tea time?

A perfect gift for tea lovers.

These are only £2 each & you can find them *here*

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This is a really pretty wooden hanging heart.

The heart is painted white with distressed edges & features the wording HOME SWEET HOME, the heart hangs from natural twine.

Such a lovely little gift idea & perfect for any home.

These are only £3 each, find them *here*

♥

How pretty will you look with this shopping bag when you head home from the farmers market or supermarket!

A really lovely bag which has a gusset botton & so had a large depth to it too, you can fit so much in this cutie!

Made from recycled plastic & so eco friendly & water proof.

These are only £2.50 & you can find them *here*

♥

So as you can see there are lots of sweet gift ideas perfect as stocking fillers or as 'Secret Santa' gifts!

You don't have to spend a lot at Vintage Amethyst to get something pretty this festive season!

♥

Christmas Garland

2011-12-05T10:09:00.000Z

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There isn't long to go now to the big day & so this weeks

*Product of the Week* are these really wonderful

Christmas Garlands.

♥

This is a really adorable Shaker Style Christmas Garland.
The garland is strung & features wooden letters which are paint in cream or red with different patterns on each.
Festive gingham ribbon is tied between each letter.
This lovely Nordic garland can be hung on walls & doors & looks especially pretty strung across dressers.
So a sweet garland for the festive season.
The total length of the garland is 65 cms & each letter is 8cms high.

They are only £6.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Manor House Hotel Weddings

2011-12-03T15:08:00.002Z

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A while ago I was asked by the Manor House Hotel, Castle Combe near Bath to provide them with some wedding day items which they could showcase in a cabinet to advertise weddings at the hotel.

♥

Here is the cabinet, the photo is a little dark but you will be able to see the custom wooden

Mr & Mrs Letter which I provided.

I have custom intial letters for wedding day decor or as a wedding gift which are £20 & you can find them *here*

I also provided some of *these* heart place settings.

One of *these* pretty ivory rose garlands and one of *these* sweet white willow hearts.

♥

A little bit about the hotel & it's weddings ...

'We have a selection of wedding suites available and can accommodate over 100 guests for the wedding ceremony, wedding breakfast and the evening reception. We have the new addition of our wedding pavilion on the lawns which now allows us to hold civil ceremonies on the lawns. The hotel can be booked for exclusive use giving you the privacy of your own Manor House including all 48 bedrooms, 6 lounges, the Michelin star Bybrook restaurant and the gorgeous lawns. Prices vary depending on the date chosen and our wedding coordinator will be hand to create an exclusive day that is personal to you. More information available *here*'

♥

'At the clubhouse we offer a fully customised wedding service or alternatively we can offer two packages with upgrades and additional items available. The Castle Combe package is £3,250 for 50 guests including the use of our licensed ceremony room, a three course wedding breakfast, half a bottle of wine per person and many other extras. The Exclusive package is £5,999 for 80 people and on top of the Castle Combe package entertainment for the evening reception is also included as is a Junior Suite for the Bride and Groom at the Manor House Hotel. More details can be found *here*'

♥

To find out anymore information about weddings at Manor House Hotel visit their webiste *here*

And to see more of the Vintage Amethyst Wedding Day Collection take a peek *here*

♥

Christmas Shopping Dates

2011-12-01T12:06:00.002Z

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Just to let you know the last days for Christmas Shopping ...

Australia, New Zealand & Middle East ~ Last day for orders before Christmas Thursday 1st December *TODAY!*

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Europe ~ Last day for orders before Christmas Monday 5th December.

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USA & Canada ~ Last day for orders before Christmas Monday 5th December.

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UK ~ Last day for orders before Christmas Friday 16th December.

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Please note Vintage Amethyst will be closed from 6pm on Friday 16th of December until Tuesday 27th of December.

♥

*Thank You*

Christmas Polka Dot Pegs

2011-11-29T10:44:00.000Z

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Look what has just arrived in the

Vintage Amethyst Christmas Collection

Festive Red Polka Dot Pegs from Mollycupcakes.

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This is an adorable set of 8 festive red & white polka dot pegs hand-painted for Vintage Amethyst by Mollycupcakes.

These sweet polka dot pegs come with a length of natural twine so that you can hang up your Christmas cards.

Why not use these pegs on your Christmas table, write each guests name on some card or paper & either peg to their glass or their napkin, or tie the cutlery together with some ribbon & peg the name to the ribbon.

Each peg is painted on both sides & measures 7.5 cms long.

They are £6 for the set of 8 pegs & you can find them *here*

♥

Red Heart Chalkboard

2011-11-28T10:09:00.000Z

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This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really wonderfully festive

Red Heart Chalkboards!

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This is a wonderful festive red heart shaped chalkboard for Christmas.
Perfect for writing how many days left until Christmas day, or writing your Christmas wish list, or indeed to tell Santa to remember to stop at your house!
So cute for children.
The chalkboard hangs from natural twine & comes along with a piece of chalk hanging on twine too.
Such a sweet little decoration idea or gift idea for Christmas.

Can be used all year too!
The chalkboard measures approx. 22cms x 22cms excluding twine.

They are a super bargain at only £4.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Don't forget there is only a few weeks of shopping left as like usual I will be closing Vintage Amethyst a week before Christmas so make sure you have all your shopping done by then!

♥

My new Cath Kidston Bag!

2011-11-25T14:48:00.000Z

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Look what I received for my birthday on Tuesday!!!

*eek*

A fabulous new Cath Kidston bag!

*yay*

It was from my wonderful, wonderful sister & I had no idea she had bought it!

It's the Cath Kidston Chelsea Roses Mini Tote.

I absolutely love it, it is a perfect size for taking out & about.

♥

I love my Cath Kidston Afghan Tote but it is rather large & does get in the way when shopping in busy shops!!! One day I'm sure I am going to send a whole display of glass objects crashing to the ground with it!!!!!

*eeeeeeeekkk*

On the plus side though you can get an awful lot in it & it is a fabulous red!

♥

I also love my Cath Kidston Candy Flowers Messenger but I only ever use it in the summer months.

You can get loads in these too can't you!!!

♥

But this little cutie has been with me since Tuesday & I'm loving it!!!!

For something that is called a 'mini tote' it is a fair size & you can get lots in it and is a perfect shopping size for me, easy to get your purse in & out of & lets face it that's the main thing!!!!

*tee hee*

♥

Christmas Fayre

2011-11-23T12:12:00.000Z

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The Christmas Fayre on Sunday went really well.

I managed to take a few quick photos of the stall but they were quick as I had only just finished setting up before it opened at 10am, and as I was taking these photos people were starting to arrive to buy!!!

The light in the hotel was really yellowy too, so they are not great photos.

♥

These photos seem to make the stall look as if it was a jumble sale!!!!

The tables seemed really thin so it was difficult to get everything on & make it look pretty!
Lots of people came along & said how lovely the stall looked so it must have looked a bit better than these photos show!!!

*giggle*

I had my vintage style mannequin dolly at the side with rose garlands, pretty signs & birdcages but I didn't manage to get a photo of her.

♥

It was a really good day & I sold lots but the only thing that bothered me is that I was one of the few stalls that were upstairs in the hotel event room & I think downstairs was a lot busier!!! I don't think a lot of people knew there were stalls upstairs as I never once saw a sign on the stairs saying there were more stalls!!!

But it was a great day, lots of sales & I met lots of lovely stall holders.

It was my first fayre in about 3 years so I was a little apprehensive, oh & I had forgotten how much work goes into doing these things!!!!

*eek*

Anyhoo I had a lovely day & my sister who was 'my assistant' did a wonderful job I couldn't have done it without her.

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My Special Day!

2011-11-22T07:22:00.000Z

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Today is my special day!

It's my birthday!!!!

*yay*

♥

It is going to be a sad day though with it being the first birthday without my Mum or my precious Niece. There will be tears, no doubt, but I will also have all the happy memories of birthday's past.

♥

Shabby Chic Vintage Style Birdfeeder

2011-11-21T11:14:00.001Z

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This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really pretty heart shaped birdfeeders for the garden.

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Isn't this bird apple feeder just adorable?
With it's vintage style, antique white paint-work & distressing it is an unusual but pretty addition to your garden & a must for any vintage or shabby chic lover.
It features a cute little birdie & is heart-shaped ~ who can resist such prettiness?
A must buy gift item for the garden lover.

Perfect for a Christmas gift!
It measures 28.5cms high & 16cms at its widest.

They are only £4 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Vintage Wedding Signs

2011-11-16T11:36:00.001Z

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New to the boutique this week are these pretty wedding signs.

Above is the 'Wedding' Sign with an arrow to point your guests in the right direction!

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A 'Mr & Mrs' sign

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And a 'Just Married' Sign

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They are all handmade & they have a lovely vintage style about them.

They are painted antique white & have a soft grey writing which is distressed for a lovely vintage look. Each signs is distressed along the edges too.

They would be lovely for any wedding day decor & so perfect if you are having a vintage or shabby chic style wedding.

Each sign is only £5 & you can find them within the Wedding Day Collection at Vintage Amethyst

*here*

♥

It is Wedding Wednesday over on the Top 100 Wedding Facebook Pages & there is a photo award going on each Wednesday & whoever gets the most 'likes' for their wedding photo wins!

So if you are on Facebook please visit the Vintage Amethyst Facebook page & 'like' my wedding photo for today, pretty please. Oh & you have to have 'liked' before 8pm tonight!

*Thank You*

♥

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Welcome Door Hangers

2011-11-14T09:26:00.000Z

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This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really cute

Welcome Door Hangers

♥

A lovely white door hanger/sign perfect for any home.
A pretty hanger to hang on your door knob to welcome people to your home.
The sign features a sweet little heart too, such a perfect little gift idea for any occasion.
Door hanger measures 23 cms high & 9 cms wide.

They are only £4.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

It's FREE DELIVERY Weekend Again!

2011-11-12T09:18:00.003Z

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This weekend is

Free Delivery Weekend

Vintage Amethyst for all orders being posted to UK addresses.

The free delivery offer will last all day Saturday 12th & Sunday13th

so why not pop along & treat yourself ...

*visit the boutique here*

Remembrance

2011-11-11T09:34:00.000Z

Why Wear A Poppy

"Please wear a poppy", the lady said
And held one forth, but I shook my head.
Then I stopped and watched as she offered them there,
And her face was old and lined with care;
But beneath the scars the years had made
There remained a smile that refused to fade.

A boy came whistling down the street
Bouncing along on care-free feet
His smile was full of joy and fun,
"Lady", said he, "May I have one?"
When she's pinned it on he turned to say,
"Why do we wear a poppy today?"

The lady smiled in her wistful way
And answered, "This is Remembrance Day,
And the poppy there is the symbol for
The gallant men and women who died in war,
And because they did, you and I are free -
That's why we wear a poppy, you see".

"I had a boy about your size,
With golden hair and big blue eyes,
He loved to play and jump and shout,
Free as a bird he would race about.
As the years went by he learned and grew
And became a man - as you will, too."

"He was fine and strong, with a boyish smile,
But he'd seemed with us such a little while
When war broke out and he went away.
I still remember his face that day
When he smiled at me and said "Good-bye,
I'll soon be back, Mum, so please don't cry".

"But the war went on and he had to stay,
And all I could do was wait and pray.
His letters told of the awful fight,
(I can see it still in my dreams at night),
With the tanks and guns and cruel barbed wire,
And the mines and bullets, the bombs and fire".

"Till at last, the war was won -
And that's why we wear a poppy, son".

The small boy turned as if to go,
Then said "Thanks, lady, I'm glad to know.
That sure did sound like an awful fight,
But your son - did he come back all right?

A tear rolled down each faded cheek;
She shook her head, but didn't speak
I slunk away in a sort of shame,
And if you were me, you'd have done the same;
For our thanks, in giving, is oft delayed,
Though our freedom was bought - and thousands paid.

And so when we see a poppy worn,
Let us reflect on the burden borne
By those who gave their very all
And asked to answer their country's call

That we at home in peace might live.
Then wear a poppy, Remember - and Give!
Lest we forget....

Author Unknown

Charming Country Bedroom

2011-11-10T11:44:00.000Z

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How delicious is this bed, so rustic & shabby chic!

It's from County Living US.

The soft patina of the beadboard ceiling and wall add subtle contrast to the white linens and bed frame. A series of pressed wildflowers above the bed are a nod to the home's Texas surroundings.

I think this bedroom is so cosy & inviting but I'm not fond of that flooring I would personally have something lighter. I love the shade of the walls though.

What do you think of this bedroom?

♥

Sweet Butterfly Memo Board

2011-11-07T14:40:00.000Z

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This weeks

*Product of the Week*

are these really sweet

Butterfly Memo Boards

♥

This is a really sweet memo board for all your memos & reminders.
A cream metal memo board with a pretty lace design around the edge.
The memo board comes with 5 pretty butterflies which are magnetic to hold all your reminders.
Perfect for holding special cards, postcards, photos & of course memos & reminders.
A pretty item for the kitchen & a sweet gift idea too.
The memo board has hooks on the back so that you can hang on a wall or it can of couse be free standing also.
The memo board measures 44 cms long & 35 cms wide.

They are only £10 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Penny for the Guy Mister?

2011-11-05T09:30:00.003Z

*Photo From Here*

♥

Remember 'Penny for the Guy'?

This old british tradition seems to have died out now doesn't it?

It was still going when I was little although I was never ever allowed to take part, goodness me no!!

My Mum was very strict about these things!

♥

If you are not from the UK & don't know what 'Penny for the Guy' is, basically it's a Guy Fawkes night tradition (November the 5th). Children used to make a 'Guy' a man like figure made from old clothes, stuffed, which would then be placed on top of the bonfire before burning!

Children used to make these then wheel him around in an old pram, trolly, wheelbarrow etc & ask people for money by saying 'Penny for the Guy'!

♥

I do love Bonfire Night ... hot potatoes, bonfire toffee, toffee apples, cinder toffee, hot chocolate & marshmallows, mulled cider & that's just food & drink!

Lets not forget sparklers in gloved hands, fireworks displays, watching fireworks from you bedroom window all night & of course the bonfires!!!

*Fab!*

Anyhoo whatever you are up to tonight have a fantastic & most importantly safe time!

Handmade Christmas Signs

2011-11-03T16:49:00.000Z

♥

I just wanted to let you know about some new items I've added to the
Vintage Amethyst Christmas Collection.

They are both handmade signs by me, the first is a frosty festive

Winter Wonderland Sign.

The sign is painted in a soft off-white colour with pretty country blue writing, it has

softly distressed edges for a sweet Shabby Chic look.

They are a large sign & measure 31.5 cms long.

They are £6.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

The second item is again a handmade sign.

A festive Home Sweet Home Sign & this one has a lovely

rustic country Christmas feel I think.

The sign is painted in a soft stone colour with lovely festive red writing.

Again it is a large sign measuring 31.5 cms long.

This one is also £6.50 & you can find it *here*

♥

Do pop along to the Vintage Amethyst Christmas Collection I have some really sweet festive goodies to decorate your house with this year.
Find the collection *here*

♥

Pretty Shabby Chic LOVE Garland

2011-11-01T15:41:00.001Z

♥

Sorry for the lateness of *Product of the Week* this week but it had to make way for Halloween!

Anyhoo this week it is these absolutely adorable

Love Garlands.

♥

This is another really pretty garland from our Vintage Style range.
A really delightful vintage style garland painted in a chalky white with a shabby chic distressed finish.
The garland features cute birdies at each end & 4 hearts that spell the word 'LOVE'.
A lovely gift idea & perfect for a wedding gift.
This is a wire garland & has two loops at each end for hanging.
The garland measures approx. 15 inches long.

They are only £6 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Link to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T13:31:00.000Z

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Trick or Treat!

Well here I am again with some more of my Halloween Decorations!

♥

I made this little sign above just simply by using a plain wooden frame like the ones from Ikea, I took a piece of plain calico which I soaked in tea & then dried in the oven on a low temp. I then pencilled out my words & then simply sitched over them with black thread. I finished it with some jute twine to hang it, which I glued to the back.

♥

This is my cute Halloween Bat that I made.
I drew my own bat on paper then drew around this on to plain calico.
I then made up the bat, filling it & stiched it up.
I painted it with black paint & dried it, then once dry & grubbied it up by sanding it, this sounds little odd but the paint on the calico goes quite hard.
I stitched 2 red beads on for eyes, added a bit of thread for hanging & they we have him!

♥

These Witches Boots &Hat were made in the same way to the bat above.

With the added extras of tea stained calico, a bit of raffia & the safety pins & bells for the toes!

♥

This is just a simple sign I made which sits on the fireplace.

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These are my wonderful pumpkin plates that I have.
3 small ones & a large one.

The large one is perfect for popping sweeties on for when the trick & treaters come!

♥

An old ghosty book of James' from when he was little!

Tell your friends,

"When I go spooking,

I sometimes need a helper,

I have a good one.

My helper is a very small ghost.

His name is Willie.

Do you want to meet him?"

♥

*eek*

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This is my pride & joy, my wonderful Witches Hat!

I love this hat, it is velvet & crooked & rather tall!

♥

Well I hope you have enjoyed a little peek into my Halloween decoations over the last few days.

And to end with the book ...

The spell is broken The ghosts all go.

This is the END of the spooky show.

*HAPPY HALLOWEEN*

Have a wonderful day & a very spooktacular night!

♥

Shabby Chic Pumpkins

2011-10-30T19:07:00.000Z

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I am so in love with these

Velvet Pumpkins

from

Shabby Chic

♥

They are so delicious!

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I am just in love with all these colours!

♥

You can find them all at the wonderfully pretty Shabby Chic website *here*

♥

A Rustic Halloween

2011-10-29T12:48:00.000+01:00

♥

Today I'm decorating the house for Halloween.
I would have liked to have done it days ago but I've been so busy that I just didn't have time unfortunately, so I'm spending today doing it!

♥

I tend to put the same decorations up each year & haven't anything new this year.

The wreath above is a simple willow wreath which I added my lovely Autumn leaves too.

I bought them in Germany a few years ago, they are fabric & so are perfect to bring out year after year!

♥

As you can see I've popped a few on the dining room table too!

The bowl is full of dried mini pumpkins, which again I've had for a few years. Lovely to bring out year after year as they are dried.

♥

These are my 'Witches Jars' which I made a few years ago.

Plain old jars filled with bits & bobs.

Inside I have herbs, bay leaves, conkers, tea stained bits of rags, burnt down candles & wooden pegs.

I just added a bit of tea stained calico on the larger one & wrapped with lots of raffia & on the smaller one I wrapped the top in hessian & tied with calico. They both have tea stained hang tags & the smaller one has a little 'Witches' label which I simply designed on the computer & printed onto tea stained paper. It's tag says for 'Spells, Potions & Brews'.

♥

These are a couple of 'Rustic Witches Signs' I made a few years ago that come out each year too.
I prop the 'Witches Rest Stop' sign in the hallway & the other one on my dresser in the dining room.

♥

'Witches Brew' bottles made in the same way as the jars above just using clean wine & beer bottles.

♥

This larger bottle just has torn brown wrapping paper & is wrapped in jute twine with a tea stained label attached, how easy is that!

There are a lot more bottles done in the same way around the house.

♥

Have you been decorating for Halloween?

I have a few more bits & pieces too but I will leave those for another post ...

Linking to Autumn & Halloween Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Vintage Paper Leaf Wreath

2011-10-26T18:32:00.000+01:00

♥

Turn an old book into a whimsical wreath.

Isn't this a lovely craft idea from Martha Stewart, so perfect for Autumn.

Really lovely to display for Halloween too.

♥

Find out all about how to make this pretty vintage wreath *here*

♥

Now You Can Get Married on the Beach!

2011-10-25T11:03:00.000+01:00

♥

Have you seen the great news from Bournmouth?

Britain's first ever beach weddings have become a reality after a beach hut designed for ceremonies was built.

The law in Britain states that ceremonies may only take place in a 'permanent covered building' - something which until now has proved difficult to put in place on British beaches.

However, thanks to a unique permission granted to Bournemouth Borough Council, couples can legally tie the knot on the resort's seaside.

♥

Couple can arrive by train or by cliff lift, and the venue will offer intimate wedding ceremonies for a handful of friends and family, or larger celebrations for hundreds of guests.
Couples can wed on the beach between April and October every year, from 10am to 4.30pm, seven days a week.

♥

Isn't this great news! I'm sure other beach towns will follow suit now & we will hopefully have beach chapels popping up all over the country.

Read all about it at Mail Online *here*
The beach hut chapel looks so cute & if you see the photo on the beach at the bottom of the article you will see some LOVE blocks which are this weeks *Product of the Week* here at Vintage Amethyst!
♥

Vintage LOVE Blocks

2011-10-24T12:52:00.000+01:00

♥

This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really lovely

Vintage Style LOVE Blocks

♥

How can anyone resist the word love ...
these are pretty vintage style wooden blocks which are painted & distressed & feature the word 'love' on the front of each block.
They are a dark off-white/grey colour with an old fashioned brown font & are a good size.
These are so pretty & would look lovely placed anywhere in the home & are perfect as a gift for a loved one or for a special couple on their wedding day.
Each block measures 8cm square.

They are £15 & you can find them *here*

♥

Hallo Lovelies

2011-10-22T11:43:00.002+01:00

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Hallo lovelies.

Sorry for the lack of blog posts this week but we lost our internet connection on Monday & we couldn't get a technician from our service provider until Thursday!!!! So it wasn't until late Thursday afternoon that we had the internet back!

If you follow Vintage Amethyst on Facebook I know you will have already read about the internet troubles ... I think I have worked my way through all the e-mails & orders so I think I am back up to date now.

Sorry again to those who were waiting for orders & e-mails, but as I've said before I do have the most wonderful customers in the world & all the e-mails I've received had been so lovely & totally understanding, so thank you to those people for being so patient over the last few days.

♥

So what has everyone been up to in my short absence?

Anything fabulous?

*eek* How cold is it here in the UK at the moment?

*Brrrrr* I think we are well on our way to winter, which seems odd doesn't it as it was only just a couple of weeks ago that we had temperatures of mid to high 20's!!!

Well have a wonderful weekend whatever you are up to cuties & if you haven't popped over to the Vintage Amethyst Facebook page before you can find it *here*

♥

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Christmas Goodies

2011-10-17T10:53:00.000+01:00

♥

Christmas has arrived at Vintage Amethyst!

The Christmas collection is now available to buy & so to celebrate this weeks
*Product of the Week*

is these adorable natural linen cinnamon scented hanging Christmas trees.

♥

These are absolutely lovely Christmas decorations.
A set of 2 pretty natural coloured hanging trees made from linen with a pretty embroidered front which is finished with some snowflakes & pretty buttons including adorable heart shaped buttons.
The trees hang from a white hanger & each tree is scented with cinnamon which gives a lovely Christmas aroma.
These are also available in red too.
They are only £6 for the pair & you can find them *here*

♥

Deliciously Pink

2011-10-15T10:20:00.002+01:00

♥

I love pink cakes, I made some pink cupcakes this week ~ unfortunately I didn't take a photo of them before we ate them all!!!!

So I thought I would share some pink cake inspiration from some of my favourite photos on Flickr.

Aren't these just deliciously cute? Mine looked nowhere near as good as these cuties!!!

♥

Pop on over to these talented people to see their wonderful photos ...

1. Pink Layer Cake, 2. Pink Champagne Cupcakes, 3. Little Wee Cake for a Little Wee Cakelet, 4. For Pretty Pink Tuesday, 5. Pink Ruffle Cake-MS Weddings, 6. Sliced Paper Craft Sugar Posy Cake, 7. Delicious Bakingdom Birthday Party Cake, 8. Love, Cake, & Sprinkles 3, 9. Pink Cupcakes

♥

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Cute Garden Decking Area

2011-10-14T15:27:00.000+01:00

♥

I saw this pretty garden area over at House to Home, isn't it sweet?

♥

A garden room can be the perfect playroom for kids, office or storage space. In this decked area, a bistro-style table and chairs are placed next to a potting area, so you can enjoy doing green-fingered tasks while being sociable at the same time. Pale blue paintwork looks pretty all year, and vintage-style accessories complete the country look.

♥

PaintThe Little Greene Paint Company
Decking and summerhouse
Wickes
Bistro table
Lloyd Loom
Potting table and parasol
Garden Trading

As featured in Ideal Home
♥

Autumnal Wedding Photo Shoot

2011-10-12T14:19:00.000+01:00

♥

You may remember *this* post about a sweet engagement photo shoot & I mentioned that there would be another Autumnal themed photo shoot, well I am pleased to share some of the photos of that pretty event.

♥

As you can see in these lovely photos Vintage Amethyst's large wicker heart was used & in such a pretty way too! I love this photo of the bride holding the heart.

The large wicker hearts are only £10 each & are so perfect for Autumnal Weddings.
You can find them *here*

♥

Here are a few more photos from the day too.

♥

Here is another pretty heart from Vintage Amethyst too, a smaller woven willow heart decorated with Autumn berries.

These are really popular for weddings & are so lovely to tie to the end of church pews with ribbon or to the gates to the church to welcome guests. But they can of course be used in so many pretty ways for wedding decor, they look wonderful simply propped up on fireplaces or shelves.

These willow hearts are only £6 each & can be found *here*

♥

Thank you to

AphroditeNet Wedding Photography

for including Vintage Amethyst in such a pretty photo shoot.

You can see more photos & read more about the shoot *here*

Photographs used with kind permission.

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Sweet Heart Memo Holder

2011-10-10T18:30:00.000+01:00

♥

This weeks *Product of the Week* are these sweet heart memo holders.

♥

This is a beautiful cream wire heart, a pretty place to keep special cards or mementos or even to keep little reminder notes.
Hang on your wall or from a pretty peg rail, in your kitchen with reminders or in your bedroom with jewellery, where ever you place this heart it is going to look lovely.

They are only £6 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Target ... For Murder ~ A James Paterson Mystery

2011-10-06T15:02:00.000+01:00

♥

My lovely husband James has a new collection of works being exhibited at Art London from today.

The art fair started today with the preview evening being last night. Unfortunately we were unable to attend the preview evening but we are hoping it went well!

♥

Art London is on from today & runs until Monday. You can find out more about the fair *here*

This collection of James' work is based upon old pulp fiction novels & I am completely in love with each one, they are so fun!

The work is being exhibited by Heartbreak Gallery, London & I was very excited to hear that they are also representing the print maker James Brown too, who did those fab prints for Cath Kidston last year!!!

♥

You can read more about the collection at James' blog *here* & see the full collection of work at his website *here*

♥

French Country Bedroom

2011-10-05T11:18:00.000+01:00

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Oh I so love the look of this bedroom!

So serene & calming but of course beautiful too.

I could certainly live here.

♥

French country bedroom

An intricate bedframe and all-white accessories create an elegant French-inspired look.

Bed
The French Bedroom Company
Bedlinen
The White Company

From: Ideal Home

Photograph by Heather Lewin

♥

What do you think, do you love it too or is it just too white for you?

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Meet Cath Kidston

2011-10-04T12:41:00.001+01:00

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If you haven't heard already

Cath Kidston will be at Selfridges, London

on the 6th October from 6pm-7pm to sign copies of her new book PATCH!

This event is a great chance to grab a copy and meet Cath!!!

It's a bit far for me to visit but I hope some of you do & get to meet the lovely lady herself!

♥

Home

2011-10-03T12:03:00.000+01:00

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This weeks *Product of the Week* is this sweet shelf sitter.

♥

A really pretty shelf sitter with the word Home.
Wooden letters painted off white & distressed for a lovely shabby country look.
A really adorable little gift idea either for yourself of a loved one.
Only £4.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning

2011-09-30T08:55:00.003+01:00

♥

Are you joining in on Macmillan's

Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning

today?

This is a wonderful way to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Macmillan helps to improve the lives of people living with cancer and also their families & carers. Macmillan were really good to my Mum when she had cancer & so I know from experience that this is a wonderful cause to support.

I was going to hold an tea party type event but with having such a tragedy in the family recently it got put aside.

I am however attending an event. A Mum of a friend of ours holds one each year & so we are off to that to show our support.

She is holding a raffle too amongst other things so I have donated a pretty cream wire cake stand as seen above & a polka dot tea cosy fromVintage Amethyst.

♥

Are you holding an event today or attending one?

If not you can always pop along to any M&S cafe as 50p from any coffee sold today is donated to Macmillan Cancer Support.

To read more about the wonderful work Macmillan do visit their website *here* and if you can please do support this wonderful charity.

♥

~*UPDATE*~

My friends Mum who held the event I mentioned above did fabulously & raised over £1000 for Macmillan!!!

Isn't that amazing? It was an all day event for them with people popping in & out all day.

The food she made was amazing, lots (and I mean LOTS) of homebaked cakes & goodies.

It was wonderful & I'm sure you agree raising over £1000 is truly wonderful for an at home coffee 'day'!

How to get the eclectic country look

2011-09-28T17:39:00.000+01:00

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Oh don't you think this room is so cosy & pretty, I certainly do.

This inspiration is from Ideal Home & this is what they say ...

How to get the look

Combine the essential ingredients - rustic wood, traditional prints and layers of texture - then add quirky finds to create a room that's warm, relaxed and full of character.

Keep the background elegant, not chintzy, with muted colours and pattern, then throw in a few pieces with personality to make the scheme unique.

♥

Here is some inspiration from Vintage Amethyst which I think would look so sweet in this style of room ...

♥

These willow hearts look so pretty propped up on shelves or dressers.

White Willow Heart ~ £5

♥

Lots of lovely frames in the room above & these frames would look lovely placed on a shelf.

Vintage Style Photo Frame ~ £8

♥

These hanging hearts are a lovely way of adding a little bit of rustic wood to a room.

Pretty Pair of French Style Wooden Hearts ~ £2.50

♥

Another sweet photo frame to prop up on shelves.

Double Heart Photo Frame ~ £5

♥

These postcards look so pretty popped in frames.
Laurence Llewelyn Bowen did just that with these postcards on the 'This Morning' makeover which Vintage Amethyst was part of.

Vintage Style Postcards ~ £4

♥

So what do you think of the eclectic country room look above?
Could you live with it?

I think I certainly could ...

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Thank you Cupcake Queen

2011-09-27T14:33:00.000+01:00

♥

Look what I received!

Aren't these flowers so wonderful?

They are from the truly wonderful Kelly from The Cupcake Queen.

She sent me them after hearing about the sad loss of my beautiful niece.

I am absolutely delighted with them & so touched by the sheer kindness Kelly has shown to me.

I know I've already thanked you Kelly in a long & rambling e-mail but thank you so much again sweet lady, your love & kindness are very much appreciated, bless you.

♥

If you haven't met Kelly before do pop along & visit her.
You can find her blog *here* & her Facebook page *here* where she also has a shop for buying all types of cake related goodies!

Double Heart Photo Frame

2011-09-26T09:32:00.000+01:00

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Double the love with this weeks

*Product of the Week*

This week it is these really adorable photo frames.

♥

This is a really sweet photo frame.
Shabby Chic in style with it's distressed edges it holds 2 photos, one in each heart.
A sweet gift for a loved one & a perfect wedding gift too.
It is also a lovely idea for wedding day decor as you could pop a photo of each of you in or just simply print the words 'Just Married' & insert those in & hang around your wedding venue.

These are only £5 & can be found *here*

♥

Apple Orchard Photo Shoot

2011-09-25T10:58:00.000+01:00

♥

A while ago I was approached by Carol from AphroditeNet Wedding Photography.
She asked if I could supply some items for a couple of photo shoots they were doing.

The first photo shoot was an engagement photo shoot & here are the happy couple with the painted '&' I supplied.

The photo shoot took place in a fairytale setting, an ancient orchard & the photos are wonderful. Pop on by the AphroditeNet Wedding Photography Blog to see more & read all about it.

♥

Photo credit Tony Jones Photography/AphroditeNet Wedding Photography who kindly sent me this pretty photo to use here on the blog.

They are also doing another Autumnal photo shoot next month with some wonderful hearts from the Vintage Amethyst Boutique so I can't wait to see those photos now!

Garden Pinks

2011-09-23T14:08:00.001+01:00

♥

Pretty pinks for a pretty outdoor space from Country Homes & Interiors.

Create an outdoor dining area with a table brimming with fuchsia crockery and peonies arranged in zinc pots.

A garden bench dressed with made-to-measure seat pads will ensure you're enjoying the fresh air in style.

Photograph by Tim Young

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Thank You

2011-09-21T11:05:00.000+01:00

♥

Hello everyone.

First of all I would like to thank each & everyone one of you who left such sweet messages about losing my precious niece, I appreciated each one & the kindness you gave me.

The funeral took place yesterday & was of course such a terribly sad day.

We have lost so much as a family over the last few months & to think that a beautiful young lady can just be lost so quickly & without reason turns life upside down.

The doctors have no answers as to why it happened & so we only know that we have lost her but we have no reason why, so please cherish each & every one of your loved ones every day as we never know when they will be taken from us.

♥

Thank you so much again everyone for all your kindness, today I am getting back to work, it seems so trivial but we must go on even if it is with unbelievable sadness in our heart.

♥♥♥

Closed Due to Bereavement

2011-09-12T17:46:00.001+01:00

♥

Hello everyone.

If you've popped by the boutique over the weekend you would have noticed that it is closed.

I'm afraid on Friday our family suffered a tragedy, my beautiful 24 year old niece collapsed at home & died shortly after at the hospital.

We have no idea why at the moment, she was a healthy beautiful girl who was full of life.

I know regular readers will know I only lost my Mum in April & so you can only imagine what our family is going through especially my sister. I need to be with them at this time & so I made the decision to close for the time being.

Please keep us in your thoughts & prayers.

Thank you.

♥

Wedding Ideas

2011-09-08T15:36:00.000+01:00

♥

The 100th issue of Wedding Ideas Magazine came out yesterday & guest who was mentioned in it?

Yes, that's right Vintage Amethyst was mentioned in one of the Real Life Weddings!

One of my lovely customers had her wedding appear in the magazine & let me say it was a wonderfully pretty wedding going from the feature.

The wedding was of Freddie & James who got married at Guyers House in Corsham, Wiltshire.

They used my wooden heart place settings as favours & there was a sweet little photo of the brides setting with her heart.

♥

*Congratulations*

Freddie & James

Lets wish them much happiness & love.

~♥♥♥~

You can find the sweet wooden heart place settings *here*

♥

Shabby Chic Bathroom

2011-09-07T14:01:00.000+01:00

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OOOoohhh how pretty is this Shabby Chic Style Bathroom?

Glam-a-licious!

♥

Glass crystal pendants, overmount porcelain sinks, white bathroom cabinets, white washed wood mirror, white roman shades, crystal pendants chandeliers and white carrara marble countertops.

Soft blue paint wall colors.

From Decorpad

♥

If you are looking for some sweet ideas to make your bathroom more glamorous how about these cuties from Vintage Amethyst ...

♥

A sweet vintage style washroom sign ~ £4

♥

These really adorable glass heart candle holders are so perfect to bring a touch of vintage glamour to your bathroom, pefect for bathing with lots of bubbles & a glass of bubbly ~ £3

♥

A pretty pair of vintage shabby chic style heart hooks pefect for popping in the bathroom for hand towels, robes etc. ~ £5 for the pair

♥

A Vintage Style Glass dish to hold pretty guest soaps or jewellery whilst you bathe ~ £5

♥

And finally every girlie girls needs a 'Do Not Disturb' sign for the bathroom & this door hanger is just perfect to let people know you want some 'me time' ~ £4.50

♥

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Guest Goody Bag

2011-09-06T12:11:00.000+01:00

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I love this idea from Country Homes & Interiors, it's a rather lovely goody bag to present your guests with when they come to visit!

♥

Country Homes & Interiors say ...

Be the best hostess in town by presenting your guests with their own bathroom kit.
Line a fishing creel or picnic basket and fill with beautiful toiletries and a hand towel.

This rather delightful fishing creel is from Great English Outdoors .
♥
Photograph by Tim Young

Wonderfully French Style Hanging Hearts

2011-09-05T11:15:00.000+01:00

♥

This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really sweet love hearts.

This is a really lovely set of 2 individual wooden hanging hearts.
The hearts are lightweight & are very rustic french in style, each hearts has a painted floral wreath & the word Love inside, they hang from twine which adds to their lovely country feel.
A perfect little gift idea & lovely for any home.

They are only £2.50 for the pair & you can find them *here*

♥

My Special Vintage Bag

2011-09-03T13:05:00.001+01:00

♥

Tonight I'm going to be using this rather bold vintage clutch bag!

It is called 'Japelle' by Shilton International which I believe is Jane Shilton.

It is rather special to me as it used to belong to my Mum, who most of my regular readers know very sadly passed away in April.

My Mum loved this bag, it was one of her favourites she used to tell me but I don't think it has had a lot of use, probably because it was one of her favourites plus of course it will have gone out of fashion too over the years, but she always kept it on the top shelf in her rather large 'built in' wardrobes ~ my Mum was very fond of clothes & had so so many, a running joke in the family when an occasion would arise & she would say 'oh what shall I wear, I don't have anything'!!!!!!

She always had something to wear & more often than not would find something lovely in her wardrobe which still had tags attached!!!!

♥

Now of course it isn't out of place on a night out so I'm going to use it tonight!

It is a wonderfully bold wine red patent leather with a fabulous solid shape.

It isn't a special occasion or anything, we are off to an art event with lots of conceptual art, performances & a live band too. More of a relaxed night, but I thought I'm not going to save it for a special occasion as it should be used & enjoyed so that's what I'm going to do & I do so love my vintage clutches & this will be this ones first outing with me!

Linking to Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home & Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground

Heart Pegs & Just Married Tags for Wedding Tables

2011-09-01T18:17:00.003+01:00

♥

Just arrived in the Vintage Amethyst Wedding Day Collection are these

really sweet little heart pegs.

Such adorable little painted white pegs with cute hearts perfect for wedding day decor.

They can be used in so many ways!

Use them to peg table numbers to a display on the table or as place settings pegging each guests name to a glass or vintage tea cup. They even look cute just holding the name card propped up on the table.

They would also look really sweet to hold photos of the happy couple around the room.

Pop them on your table with some pretty paper & pens & ask your guests to leave you little love notes & have them pegged altogether on each table.

You could also use these with our Birdcage Memo Holder as additional pegs to either peg photos or to use as a table plan.

There are so many ways these little cuties can be used at your wedding, let your imagination roam free!

They come in a pack of 10 & each peg is 4cms long.

They are £3.50 for the set of 10 pegs & you can find them *here*

♥

Also new are these really sweet

Just Married Tags

Really cute little white tags with 'Just Married' in black script.

These are really sweet tied to your favours, wine glasses or vintage tea cups if you are having a vintage wedding. You could also thread with a length of white ribbon & tie around cutlery too.

They come in a set of 10 & are £1.50 per set. Find them *here*

♥

Linking to Whatever You Want Wednesday!

Day Dreaming

2011-08-31T11:52:00.000+01:00

♥

Dear pretty white garden house,

I do so wish you were mine!

*sigh*

Love

Alison

♥

Via

♥

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Blog Love

2011-08-30T14:40:00.000+01:00

♥

I just wanted to let you know that the Cosmo Blog Awards are happening again & I would love for my lovely readers to nominate the Vintage Amethyst blog.

I was so lucky last year to be nominated & to be shortlisted in the E-tailer category.

I was up against some huge contenders such as Dorothy Perkins, Topshop, River Island & Asos, who won the award!

I was so honored to be amongst these giants of the E-tailer world, little old me amongst these biggies I was very proud indeed!

*blush*

So I would love it if my lovely readers would take a moment & kindly nominate the Vintage Amethyst blog in the E-tailer category.

Us little independent shops need to show the world we are great & certainly do a wonderful job within the retail industry, I personally don't think that big companies can compete on our customer service & I think the Cosmo blog awards is a great way of showing that to the world.

So please if you would like to vote pop along

*here*

Don't forget vote for Vintage Amethyst in the E-tailer category & hurry your nominations need to be in by the 31st August!!!

*thank you so much lovelies*

You + Me = Us Sign

2011-08-29T11:22:00.001+01:00

♥

How crazy sweet are these signs?

You + Me = Us

I'm so in love with them & they have just arrived in the

Vintage Amethyst Boutique.

They are also this weeks

*Product of the Week*

♥

This is a really wonderfully large sign in a vintage style with the words You + Me = Us.
These are sweet for any couple & any home & are perfect as a gift.
They can be propped up or hung on a wall as they have 2 hooks on the back for hanging.
These are so lovely for vintage style weddings with their lovely rustic look & perfect as a wedding gift too.

They would be fantabulous used as props for wedding photo's, for your wedding photo booth or for your engagement photo shoot.

So lovely for any wedding but perfect if you are having a black & white wedding.
The signs are big & measure 66cms long & 16cms wide.

They are only £16 each & you can find them

*here*

♥

A Cheerful Blog Post

2011-08-27T14:32:00.000+01:00

♥

I had quite the morning this morning with copyright issues galore ~ people taking my photos to sell on Ebay again!

So when I received a lovely e-mail from Krissie of Shabbily By The Sea letting me know she loved her recent purchases & had blogged about one of them, I was delighted & it instantly cheered me up & so I popped on by!

♥

I then became much cheerier after seeing how Krissie had used the Vintage Style Organiser she had bought from Vintage Amethyst! Her photos are adorable & I stole one above (a copyright issue in itself I hear you cry, but don't worry I did ask if I could use it, which I was very kindly grated permission. *giggle*)

Anyhoo pop on by the pretty Shabbily By The Sea blog & see all the cuteness *here*

Thank you Krissie for such a pretty blog post.

♥

I'm afraid the Vintage Style Organisers are out of stock now, greedy old me did keep one for herself though, sorry lovelies but I fell in love with them, they were so shabbily lovely!

Linking to Pink Saturday

Pretty Pastel Kitchen

2011-08-26T13:02:00.000+01:00

♥

How pretty is this pastel kitchen?

I think it is completely scrummy!!!

♥

Pastel chinaware and canisters displayed on an open shelf in the kitchen, not only keep things readily to hand, but also give the room a retro feel.

Floral tins
Cath Kidston
Crockery
Typhoon
Toaster
Dualit

From Country Homes & Interiors

♥

Shabby Chic is Available at House of Fraser

2011-08-24T09:25:00.000+01:00

♥

Shabby Chic is now available at House of Fraser!

There are lots of pretties available but being the greedy girly I am, I wanted more!!!

More pretties & more soft ruffles I think.

♥

Shabby Chic Meadow 2 Drawer Sofa Table ~ £319.00

♥

I'm so glad there are some lovely grey pieces in the collection too as you may well know, my love of grey is almost equal to my love of white!!!!

The furniture isn't cheap folks, but we knew that would be the case didn't we & of course it seems especially expensive if you are like me & paint your own furniture in pretty soft greys & whites!

*eek*

♥

I really love this soft grey mug Shabby Chic Gosford Grey Mug ~ £4.50 but I do love grey & it isn't often you see it in a pretty china setting is it!?

♥

Shabby Chic Kew Side Plate ~ £7.00

♥

His & Her Mugs ~ £5.00

♥

Shabby Chic Floral Etched Glass Cakestand & Dome ~ £60.00

♥

If you haven't seen it yet pop along to the

House of Fraser

website *here* to view the full collection.

♥

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Popular Crafts Magazine

2011-08-23T14:17:00.000+01:00

♥

This month I'm delighted to tell you that Vintage Amethyst appears in Popular Crafts Magazine.
The issue which came out last week has a feature about blogs & Vintage Amethyst is one of the blogs featured with a link to the Vintage Amethyst Boutique

*Yay*

♥

If you haven't seen it before Popular Crafts has a wonderful website full of information & projects to do! There is also a forum where you can chat to other crafty people!

Also at the moment Popular Crafts are running a Matchbox Swap but you need to be quick to join in on this swap as you need to be signed up by the end of August! Find out all about the fun Matchbox Swap *here* & visit the Popular Crafts website *here*

♥

Thank you Popular Crafts for featuring Vintage Amethyst in this months issue.

Welcome Home

2011-08-22T08:20:00.000+01:00

♥

This weeks *Product of the Week* are these really sweet

Welcome Door Hangers

♥

Only £4.50 each & you can find them *here*

♥

Pink Pretties

2011-08-20T19:17:00.000+01:00

♥

Here are some of the

Pink Pretties

that are available at the Vintage Amethyst Boutique ...

A sweet pink Butterfly Garland ~ £8

♥

An antique style dark pink Rose Garland ~ £12

♥

A really pretty pale Pink Rose Garland ~ £10

♥

A cute pink linen Lavender Scented Hanging Heart ~ £4.50

Plus don't forget it's

*Free Delivery Weekend*

for all UK orders this weekend.

So pop along & take a peek at all the pretty goodies at Vintage Amethyst!

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound

Free Delivery Weekend!!!

2011-08-19T16:02:00.000+01:00

♥

This weekend is

Free Delivery Weekend

Vintage Amethyst for all orders being posted to UK addresses.

The free delivery offer will last all day Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st

so why not pop along & treat yourself ...

*visit the boutique here*

♥

The Wonderful Doris Day

2011-08-18T11:39:00.000+01:00

♥

Doris Day, the sweetheart of 1950s music and film, is launching a musical comeback, nearly 20 years after her last studio album!

♥

Aahhhh I so love Doris Day.
My Mum was a huge huge fan & absolutely loved Doris Day.
Her favourite film ever was Calamity Jane.

I was brought up on Doris Day because of my Mum & her love of the sweet lady certainly rubbed off on me.

I am so in love with Doris Day films & really love the lady herself, she may have been dubbed the sweet 'girl next door' in films but what I also loved about her films is that that sparkle of mischieveousness she always seemed to portray. Her strong spirit & vigor always shone through her acting, I always felt.
She always seemed so fun & giggly, yet such a strong woman at the same time. It is a wonderful combination!

♥

BBC Radio 4 had an interview with the beautiful lady herself, who is now 87!

Pop along to the website *here* to read the article & listen to the interview.

The Insider's Guide to Decorating with White ~ Shabby Chic's Rachel Ashwell

2011-08-17T09:28:00.001+01:00

♥

Ashwell sparked a craze for slipcovered sofas and flea-market finds when she launched Shabby Chic 22 years ago. Today, she oversees two furniture lines, as well as a collection for Target.

Her take on white decor? Pretty, but far from precious.

Think rumpled linens and chipped paint gussied up by crystal chandeliers and fresh flowers.

"My motto is 'beauty and comfort,'" Ashwell says.

"If you can embrace the lived-in look, white is very practical."

♥

What I Know About Decorating with White, tips from Rachel Ashwell ...

WHITE IS NEVER BORING.
Beige can be boring, but not white. It's a very dramatic color. That's proven over and over again by weddings — we never tire of looking at them.

WHITE CAN BE COZY.
People think of it as cold, because they believe a white room must be neat and uniform with chairs lined up like good little soldiers. I avoid hard, modern pieces and use fluffy cushions and distressed finishes — so you still get that airy feeling, but with warmth to it.

WHITE MAKES FOR A FLEXIBLE AND FORGIVING FIRST STEP.
Paint a room white, and you have a blank canvas for anything. Start with bold wallpaper, and you're already committed.

♥

WHITE IS EASY TO CARE FOR.

There's nothing worse than seeing someone go with an all-white room, then fear it. Let the white be lived in! I've raised two children in my homes, so all of my Shabby Chic slipcovers are preshrunk and machine washable. Of course, it helps to like the crumpled, imperfect look. I don't iron. If you're a human being and have a life, that gets old very quickly.

PAIR WHITE WITH PASTELS, BUT PROCEED CAREFULLY.

They can read as baby colors, so I choose mellow shades that impart just a whisper of smoky pink, blue, or green.

Linking to White Wednesday at Faded Charm

Sweet Bug Cupcakes

2011-08-16T11:27:00.000+01:00

♥

Oh my, how absolutely adorable are these cakes!

I first came across them when I shared them on the Vintage Amethyst Facebook page from Martha Stewart, they are so so cute aren't they?

I love the pretty colours of them & although I love the word Ladybird (secretly I would love a little girl to call Ladybird, but shhhhhh!) I also love the cuteness of the American equivalent Ladybug don't you?

If you want the recipe for these cuties pop along to the Martha Stewart page *here*

♥

If you haven't already pop along & like the Vintage Amethyst Facebook page, you can find it *here*

Vintage Style Cake Stand

2011-08-15T11:10:00.000+01:00

♥

This weeks *Product of the Week* are these wonderful 3 tier cake stands.

This is a really pretty vintage style cake stand.
The cake stand is made from pretty china plates mismatched for a delightful old vintage look with a gold handle.
Perfect for tea-parties or wedding table decor.

They are only £25 each & you can find them *here*

♥

These are also sold by Urban Outfitters for £40!!! So they are bargain-licious at Vintage Amethyst!

Sweet Stencil Idea

2011-08-14T11:56:00.001+01:00

♥

I came across this wonderfully cute idea from the House to Home website

through 25 Beautiful Homes magazine's Facebook page a while ago.

They had a post about stencilling & this sweet idea caught my eye as I thought it was just simply adorable!

♥

If getting the kids off to bed is a trial, maybe it'd be easier if they had a bedroom door they loved to open! The combination of images and script is a great idea and updating a door is a fun way to decorate with stencils.

Photograph by Tom Leighton

♥

All Good Wishes for a Happy Day

2011-08-12T18:20:00.002+01:00

♥

I love vintage postcards, I always have done for some reason.

I remember when I was younger I used to buy them. I used to love going to car boots or flea markets when on holiday (we didn't really have many near us when I was little for some reason!)

I was always facinated with old postcards. Vintage jewellery too, but my Mum liked old jewellery & often bought vintage rings & small things for me which was simply wonderful. I thought they were such treasures!

We also had a fab second hand shop in town that I remember visiting on Sunday mornings with my Dad & this was before shops were generally open on a Sunday so it felt really exciting! The shop stocked the most wonderful collection of vintage postcards & old photos too & I used to love looking through them all. I often wondered about the people in the photos & what had happened to them & why such personal treasures had ended up in a second hand shop many years later.

I was really facinated with the beauty & charm of old postcards & often used to come home with a few of my favourites, that my Dad kindly bought for me!

I often wonder what happened to the cards I collected as I don't have them now, I think I must have got rid of them in my teenage years which is a shame.

♥

I still love old postcards & have a small collection now. I simply love their beauty & find the backs of them just as beautiful, if not more so on some occassions! I really love having ones that have been used to send greetings to a loved one, it seems wonderful to have such a small piece of time that has been captured so simply in writing & people seemed to have such beautiful writing in passed times ...

♥

Written on 29th of May 1921 ...

All good wishes for a happy day.

Yours sincerely

Ethel.

♥

Linking to Pink Saturday at How Sweet the Sound & Vintage Inspiration Friday at Common Ground & Show & Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

Vintage Amethyst's New Home!

2011-08-10T11:49:00.000+01:00

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Well I thought it was about time to show you Vintage Amethyst's new home!

I know it's not very glamorous is it!

*giggle*

These photos were taken the morning when we first got the keys to our new buisness unit.

I actually forgot to take some photos when we first got in when it was a blank space, but after a trip back with some things here we are!!!

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This isn't everything believe me, we have had a few more trips with lots more things!!!
I am much more sorted now after a week, I have my shelving up, boxes & stock organised, a computer table, my wrapping station organised, craft area, a hanging wall for stock & even a little place to sit for a cup of tea or lunch!

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These photos aren't the best as we still had the shutters on the front window & door down here & so the lights were on, it is much lighter when the shutters are up!

I'm not running it as a gift shop, it is soley to run the online boutique, so we have frosted the front windows as it is a rather busy road & we are near traffic lights so people would be snooping in all the time!

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It is absolutely fantastic to have this much room, Vintage Amethyst has grown so much & I was so so desperate for space but it was hard to find the perfect space as retail spaces are so expensive for what I wanted as I didn't want to open a 'shop' (although perhaps one day I may!!!) & warehousing was far too big & thus expensive!

This place is absolutely ideal as they are a row of Victorian houses which have been made into business units, so some people run specialist shops which is fine as people will travel to visit them & others use them as workshops.
There are craft shops nearby alongside pottery & furniture restoration, a baby shop & cake makers, sign writers, framers (who actually makes up James' stretcher frames for his canvas so that's perfect!) & even a magician!!!!

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Another great asset to this place is that there is room for both of us!
So James has the upstairs which consists of 2 rooms for his art studio.
James has become increasingly busy over the last year & also desperately needed the space, he has 25 commissions on the go at the moment & has to complete 8 paintings for a London Gallery by next month too! He is a busy bee!!!

So this place is really so perfect for us as it gives us both enough space & we are still together too!

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I will have to remember to take some more photos of how the place is looking now things are a bit more organised!

My Dad has been absolutely fantastic over the last week & has helped out so so much, we couldn't have done it as quickly without him, he even came round the other day with a new kettle for us! Which was really a hint to say 'I want a cup of tea when I come round'!

*giggle*

We still have a few jobs to keep him busy though so he will earn those cups of tea believe me!

Vintage Amethyst

*You + Me = Us*

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*Candy Cane Cocktail*

Ingredients

1 candy cane, crushed, for garnish2 ounces strawberrry vodka4 dashes white creme de menthe2 1/2 ounces cranberry juiceIce cubes

Directions

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*Autumnal Wedding Photo Shoot*

Sweet Heart Memo Holder

*Target ... For Murder ~ A James Paterson Mystery*

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Home

*Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning*

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*Thank you Cupcake Queen*

*Double Heart Photo Frame*

*Apple Orchard Photo Shoot*

*Garden Pinks*

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*Closed Due to Bereavement*

*Wedding Ideas*

*Shabby Chic Bathroom*

*Guest Goody Bag*

You + Me = Us

Sweet Heart Memo Holder

Cath Kidston Giveaway

Lovely Email

Pretty Home Sweet Home Wooden Garland

Happy Saturday

International Orders

Romantic Vintage Style Rose Garland

Happy New Year

Disney to donate £10 for every Disney memory shared

Merry Christmas Everyone

These Make Christmas for Me!

Country Christmas Look

Candy Cane Cocktail

1 candy cane, crushed, for garnish
2 ounces strawberrry vodka
4 dashes white creme de menthe
2 1/2 ounces cranberry juice
Ice cubes

Spiced Cranberry & Orange Relish

A Christmas Companion

A Festive Wellyboot!

Closing for the Holidays!

What would I like for Christmas ...

A White Christmas

Pretty Christmas Tree Inspiration

Linen Scented Hanging Christmas Trees

Candy Cane Marshmallows

Pretty Sea Inspired Christmas Tree

Festive Pretties

Festive Favourites

Gifts £3 & Under!!!

Christmas Garland

Manor House Hotel Weddings

Christmas Shopping Dates

Christmas Polka Dot Pegs

Red Heart Chalkboard

My new Cath Kidston Bag!

Christmas Fayre

My Special Day!

Shabby Chic Vintage Style Birdfeeder

Vintage Wedding Signs

Welcome Door Hangers

It's FREE DELIVERY Weekend Again!

Remembrance

Charming Country Bedroom

Sweet Butterfly Memo Board

Penny for the Guy Mister?

Handmade Christmas Signs

Pretty Shabby Chic LOVE Garland

Happy Halloween

Shabby Chic Pumpkins

A Rustic Halloween

Vintage Paper Leaf Wreath

Now You Can Get Married on the Beach!

Vintage LOVE Blocks

Hallo Lovelies

Christmas Goodies

Deliciously Pink

Cute Garden Decking Area

Autumnal Wedding Photo Shoot

Target ... For Murder ~ A James Paterson Mystery

French Country Bedroom

Meet Cath Kidston

Worlds Biggest Coffee Morning

How to get the eclectic country look

Thank you Cupcake Queen

Double Heart Photo Frame

Apple Orchard Photo Shoot

Garden Pinks

Thank You

Closed Due to Bereavement

Wedding Ideas

Shabby Chic Bathroom

Guest Goody Bag

Wonderfully French Style Hanging Hearts

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