At Home with Kim Vallee

ENTERTAINING, TABLESCAPE | September 24, 2009

Rustic Tables for the End of Summer Cottage Season

Fall officially arrived. In a few weeks, the cottage on the lake season will close for many of us that live North. Wood slice trays are nothing new but I still like them. Plus, using handcrafted organic elements to contrast modern pieces is one of the 4 trends for Christmas 2009 (more on that later). Wood slices [...]

HOME + GARDEN, HOME decor | September 10, 2009

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Rustic Metal Letters and Decanters

You probably noticed that alphabet is a recurring theme on my blog. What can I say, I am inspired by the views of letters and words. I am inclined to introduce new sources when they add something new. At West End specializes in rustic and recycled home decor. They carry a beautiful line of rustic metal [...]

ENTERTAINING, SPECIAL occasions | July 31, 2009

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Rustic Decor Ideas from Starbucks 15th Ave. Coffee & Tea

Many people, including couples who are getting married, opt for a rustic party theme. These are good reasons for that. It is style that is inviting, that feels warm and cozy. You may have heard that Starbucks opened a new store concept, the 15th Ave. Coffee & Tea. Despite the design controversy, there are decor ideas [...]

ENTERTAINING, TABLESCAPE | July 15, 2009

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The Art of Food Styling and Rustic Tabletop

My entertaining philosophy has always been to pay attention to how I present food and set up my table instead of passing hours cooking in the kitchen. I cook but I opt for delicious dishes that are simple to make. I often serve dishes I am used to do. The key is to serve the [...]

ENTERTAINING, HOLIDAY entertaining | December 25, 2008

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My Christmas Eve Tablescape

The tradition continues. I am showing you my Christmas tablescapes. Last night theme was built around winter wilderness. Since we celebrated Christmas Eve at the ski cottage, that theme fits the surroundings. The Making of My Theme A special thank to Canadian Tire for giving me several accessories to make my table come true. The rest of [...]

ENTERTAINING, HOLIDAY entertaining | August 22, 2008

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Labor Day Weekend Party Theme

The psychological indicator that marks the end of summer is Labor Day. It is a time where many people host one last big party at the cabin by the lake. Setting the Decor Last July, Gourmet inspired their readers with a delicious summer menu realized in a dreamy setting. I fall in love with the vintage canoe [...]

GIFT IDEAS, HOSTESS gifts, HOUSEWARMING gifts | April 19, 2008

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Cool Gift Ideas from Simplemente Blanco

I felt in love with the work of Fernanda Bourlot, an artist from Buenos Aires, Argentina who now lived in Boston, Massachusetts. She likes simple things that feel luxurious. As suggested by the name, everything at Simplemente Blanco is from the white palette. The Design Philosophy Her collection carries a modern rustic charm. Simplemente [...]