Shabby Chic Valentine

Life's little celebrations can be like taking a little vacation from yourself. By that I mean that the regular world requires decisions and commitments toward a decorating style. When you buy a  certain couch or table, say, or a lamp, you are making assertions about a way of living. But a special occasion can be the perfect time to indulge those whims that never see daylight.

I don't decorate much like Rachel Ashwell, but I appreciate the beauty of her style. Valentines Day gives me a good excuse to indulge her ultra romantic way of putting things together.

When I went to make my Valentines box (from a shoe box) I knew I wanted soft and sweet. I took it one step at a time starting with a pastel wall paper I picked up ages ago from a thrift store (probably by Laura Ashley, another favorite), and added things from there.

The tattered cotton strips (heart strings) are a nod to both Rachel's pin bouquets and her dream catchers that I saw when I visited her shop last summer.

Those posts are here, here, and here.

I then added a few cut out papers, paper doilies, stamps, and a different wall paper scrap with a larger rose motif. I wanted my box to be spare and simple like Rachel's style. But you can keep adding and adding to a box like this.

I was thrilled to pull out this Rachel blue rhinestone pin from my vintage jewelry stash! The key motif is perfect! I just pinned it on. 

A small folded envelope with a heart punch from Michael's craft store.

A ribbon and more doilies wrapped around the bottom, and voila! Happy Valentine's day!

A box like this might be a fun prop for a Valentine Tea or dessert table, or even for serving up treats inside! Tell everybody to bring you a Valentine! *smile* Is that Chic? Or just Shabby?

Thank you, Rachel, for all the inspiration!

Hope y'all have a great week!

Jacqueline

Linked to

The Dedicated House~Make It Pretty

Between Naps on the Porch~Metamorphosis Monday

Savvy Southern Style~WOW US Wednesday