Thea's Home

The Withie's journals featured in Somerset Studio!

2012-01-31T18:43:00.000-08:00

Isabella and I love to visit Julie Verburg's beautiful art studio in the Portland area. Her home and studio is full of whimsy, charm and you might even find a fairy tucked away in her lovely garden. For the last 3 years I have had the great fortune of hand picking from her wonderful creations for Thea's. There is no end to the treasures to choose from when I visit her studio, the layers are amazing.

The Withies journal

In the newest edition of Somerset Studio, The Withies Altered Art Journals have been featured. These treasures have been a favorite for our customers and Julie has just brought in a wonderful selection for Thea's. Each journal is unique with fun embellishments such as key holes, metal fragments, ribbon, buttons, birds and anything else you can image. The wonderful thing about each embellished journal is that they are functional as well as beautiful. The pages are full of blank note paper, glassine envelopes, and vintage finds for you to record your memories and keepsakes.

"Far away there in the sunshine are my highest aspirations. I may not

reach them, but I can look up and see their beauty, believe in

them, and try to follow where they lead."

Louisa May Alcott

Thea's Interiors

What we found in Seattle!

2012-01-17T23:07:00.000-08:00

Chris and I were itching to get out of town for a weekend so we hopped in the van (hoping we would find a few large treasures) and set off at 5:30 am so we could make it to the Second Saturday Flea market in Seattle by opening time. We arrived a little late so I missed some great items but I scored on a beautiful Victorian satin ball gown. It will be perfect for a window display with maybe a French theme, ballroom theme or maybe a Valentine's Day window, the possibilities are endless, stay tuned!!

I also picked up some great large letters!! So here is a little sneak peak as some need to be cleaned up before they are brought into the shop.

We had such a good time finding a few new antique places to go to, seeing friends like Dawn with Great Findz and visiting Haystack Antiques in Bellevue, Washington.

I did find 2 great antique wood molds from Haystack Antiques. They are going to be great side tables when I find the perfect size glass for the tops.

We bumped into the always delightful Celeste from Chap's restaurant and bakery (located in Spokane), she always puts a smile on my face, she is full of song! After a full Saturday of shopping and driving, we went to a great Japanese restaurant called Wann with our other good friends from Seattle. I have had a lot of different types of Japanese food but I never had Japanese Nabe before.

I am adding it to my new favorite foods list.

The snow was crazy on Sunday but after eating a great breakfast with Dawn and Jeff we headed to our last stop. We picked up 2 really cute pieces of furniture and headed out of town before the snow got any worse than it already was. We had to miss a couple of our favorite stops, Susan Wheeler Home and Kirk's but will make a visit next time.

We are already planning 2 more small road trips in the next few months. We will be heading to Alameda in March and Spokane in April. I will also be heading to Las Vegas for my mother's 70th birthday!! Any suggestions on antiques in Vegas??

Sweater tree!
Let's continue the treasure hunt!

Thea's

Christmas Trunk Show November 26th

2011-11-24T12:45:00.000-08:00

Enjoy three amazing local artists this Saturday, November 26, from 5-8 pm.

The Pearl District will also be having their annual Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at

Jamison Park at 6pm. Most shops will be open late & be participating in

the other festivities.

Mimi Muse Designs will be bringing her journals, coasters cards & many

other wonderful creations.

Daisy Chix Jewelry is our new locally made jewelry line.

She will be introducing her beautiful collection including

her handcast silver initial charms.

One of our favorite jewelry designers, Christine Marie Studio, will

also be here on this special night. She will bring some of her newest

creations for you to see.

Ankeny Vineyard Winery from the Willamette Valley will be

tasting their wines & will be available for purchase.

This antique horse pulls a small wood wagon & is one of our

best treasures just in for Christmas. Bottle brush trees & silver swag

adorned with pine cones from the McKenzie River area.

Vintage turquoise glass balls, small peacock ornaments made from real feathers,

vintage garland & Christmas treasures from Magpie Ethel.

This pretty lady has been adorned with pearls & shells by

local artist The Withies.

Vintage Christmas ornaments, handmade stockings

& pink Christmas trees are just a few of the charming

Christmas items that decorate our shop.

Nancy Dean has once again made the most beautiful swags,

garlands & wreaths for your mantles & doors.

Mack and Mamma's has created these charming inspirational

Christmas bottles, adorned with glitter, snowmen & vintage buttons.

These are just a few of many to choose from.

Blessings this holiday season!

Thea's Interiors

Barnhouse days!

2011-08-02T22:56:00.000-07:00

Another great time with the Boy's at Barnhouse and friends!!

Thea's Interiors

July Expo 2011!

2011-07-12T21:35:00.000-07:00

Jan and her son Spencer were out for a little ride on this very cool rickshaw she spied at Expo. There were some very special things to buy this year, I found a great dress form, cobalt float, French sign and lots of other great finds. It is always good to see old friends from far away and just next door. In this business sometimes you only see friends when you are at a show so you try and make the most of every moment.

Isabella loves her parasol another vendor gave her during the show. It was sunny and warm and a great day to be spending outside. Isabella made a lot of new friends, she came home with an armload of gifts and stories. One of her favorites is her robot kitty given to her by our vendor neighbor, yes, the meowing is creepy but we love her like a family member.

We are now getting ready for Barn House!!! Our favorite!!

We also have a lot of great treasures in the shop that we found at Expo.

Love and Peace,

Thea's Interiors

California and beyond...

2011-05-27T00:14:00.000-07:00

It has been about 3 weeks since we have been back from California. The only bump in our trip was the trailer flat tire on the Red Bluff exit on our way back home. The Remnants of the Past antique show was beautiful, full of amazing merchandise, great people and good sales. I wish I was back there right now soaking up the sun, eating a wonderful dinner on Judy's lawn and chit chatting about antiques!

Taking a break after set up day in Judy's beautiful back yard, eating amazing food and drinking good wine. I must have had 3 glasses of white wine, I slept well that night.

My awesome husband, Chris!

There are lots of wonderful shops in Carmel, we were there for about 4 hours, we ate breakfast, peeked in shops, talked to shop owners and drooled over wonderful antiques.

Postcard perfect!

Chris is making last minute repairs to an English floor lamp, it was one of the first items to sell.

I have to honestly admit, I was a nervous wreck. It has been awhile since I have done an antique show out of town and never in California. When I don't know what to expect, new experiences make me clam up a bit. I relaxed at Alameda, I had been there before and I knew what to expect, after a couple of hours I was as loose as a goose, or maybe it was the lack of sleep!

Now we are preparing for Farm Chicks, I am supper excited, I have found some fun items for the show although I really don't have a set plan for the display yet.

Thank you Judy Watkins, your show was marvelous, fun and you made us feel so welcome.

See you in Spokane!

Thea's Interiors

2011 road trip schedule!!

2011-03-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

Thea's Interiors will be hitting the road this year! It has been a long time since my husband and I went out of town to set up for an antique show and we just couldn't take it any longer.

This is our 2011 schedule of shows.
Remnants of the Past           -    April 30 in Nipoma, California
The Farm Chicks                -      June 4 & 5 in Spokane, Washington
Summer Expo                     -      July 9 & 10 in Portland, Oregon
Barn House Flea Market     - July 30 in Battleground, Washington

Wow, I am tired of just typing this, but how fun it will be.
Keep your ears open for our 3 year anniversary event at the shop sometime in May.

"Courage is like love; it must have hope for nourishment."

Napoleon I

Thea's Interiors

New Year

2011-01-16T11:49:00.000-08:00

I saw my first episode of American Pickers last night! You wonder why? well, we don't have cable but we do have an Xbox thingy now so we can see old episodes! Well, I am officially a fan, it is great because I can relate to so much of what they do, what treasures they find in some of the oddest places, the interesting people they meet and how it all goes down not to mention it is funny as heck because of their experiences. Watching that show makes me love what I do that much more. I really think Lynne and I could do that, the West Coast version female style and we could give them a run for their money too!! Okay, I will stop dreaming...

As you know I have been an antique dealer for a long time, I was about 9 when I bought my first antique, probably jewelry and I have been hooked ever since. I have seen a lot of great antiques, heard hilarious and interesting stories and been witness to some disturbing events by people.

In my world of antiques there are the not so nice antique dealers and then there are the gracious and kind people who I am happy to call my friends. They have inspired me in countless ways as an artist, mother and business person.

I am excited about the future of Thea's Interiors in the Pearl District, the great antiques we will find and the new artists that will have in shop. One of our new artist just in is furniture maker Inventia Design, a local custom fine furniture maker who's style ranges from farm tables to French style round pedestal tables to English inspired coffee tables and more. We have one table in at the moment and more to come.

Our online (virtual) shop is now open, we are still adding product and trying make it feel like you were shopping in the brick and mortar store, it will get there.
Great news! we will have a booth at Farm Chicks in Spokane this year and hopefully a few more in Washington and maybe California.
We will keep you posted.

May you have a wonderful and prosperous new year!!

Thea's Interiors

The little princess

2010-12-04T01:05:00.000-08:00

One of my biggest joys is observing my kids as they grow up. Our little Isabel is a delight to watch! One day she is wearing her hand me down Superman shirt from her older brother with a necklace and the next she is all decked out in her prettiest dress and accessories. Isabel likes anything with sparkles, she is always going into my jewelry box to wear my rings and necklaces, finding sparkling gems in my art box and looking for the newest pretty item in the shop. As soon as she saw the wands that Mack & Momma made, she had found her favorite princess accessory.

My favorite new items are these creations by d.Sharp. The incredible "vintage word box" and "yule log letterpress container" are perfectly assembled. Forget wrapping anything yourself she has done all the hard work.

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. ~Charles Dickens

Thea's Interiors

Magpie Ethel's Christmas Wreath

2010-11-28T22:15:00.000-08:00

I love to layer when I design and merchandise so for this Christmas as we bring in new creations from local artists it is a natural process to layer it on day by day to produce a rich Christmas presentation.

This spectacular Magpie Ethel Wreath made from vintage glass ornaments. Three just arrived, each on very unique from one another.

Paper is one of my many weaknesses! Oh My Cavalier dropped off a few of her best sellers, Mechanical Animals. Each package contains 6 different animals that you cut out and pin the movable legs on. What a cute mobile it would make or to spruce up a packaged gift!

The Withies always has inspirational gifts that are beautiful and small treats. This ornament is no exception. Filled with silver beads and an inspirational note inside, who wouldn't love the simplicity of this ornament that would compliment any tree.

Joyeux Noel

Thea's Interiors

Christmas 2010

2010-11-24T21:51:00.000-08:00

Lady Isabel is another creation by our good friend Kathy. She looks out our shop window and greets the passers-by with her beautiful smile.

Every week we will have a new artist bringing in new beautiful Christmas items, jewelry and gifts.

Gift cards embellished with jewels by The Withies.

One of our favorites - a Scoop of Pearls.

Local artist, Oh My Cavalier badges. We also have her notebooks and just delivered mobile animals which are great gift for children and adults!!

Antique iron box draped in vintage glass bead garland.

Our pink feather Christmas tree full of vintage glass ornaments.

Turquoise blue trees and blue ornaments fill a vintage birdbath. Unusual twig wreaths and sweet smelling paper whites.

Happy shopping!!

Thea's Interiors

Locally made gifts

2010-10-15T17:23:00.000-07:00

I always wished that I could paint beautiful images that popped into my head, or throw that vase or bowl that would later be used on our dining table. I wish I could sew even a straight line, but these are not going to happen in the next year so I have done my shopping for some of the best artist in Portland that can do everything I can't.

This is a little sampling of what is new in Thea's Interiors

Hadley Hutton"Flowers on the..." 8x10 print

Hadley Hutton "Heron" 5x7 print framed

Hadley Hutton "Feeding the birds" card

Appetite 16x16 yellow with 2 grey Hens & Chicks printed pillow

Appetite grey and red pot holders

Appetite 16x72 orange linen with creme floral print runner

Appetite green ferns on white dishtowels

DS Watkins woven wall hanging "5 Star" 10x10

DS Watkins woven wall hanging "d" 11x11

Pigeon Toe handmade ceramics

Pigeon Toe ceramics "Folded salt and pepper bowl"

Pigeon Toe ceramics "3 leg bowl"

Pigeon Toe ceramics "Kerr votive"

May creativity never die!

Theas Interiors

Halloween is here!

2010-10-12T12:23:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a chilly bedroom and a wool blanket thrown over my bed. "It must be fall", I said to myself but I have to say I wasn't as excited about it as I usually am. This summer proved to be short and not so sweet. Our yard never received the thorough clean up it should have, my kids didn't get to play outside like they normally do and I never had that BBQ party!

What is exciting is that the holidays are just around the corner and this year I had a good jump on Halloween as you can see from all the great hand made products we just brought in.

Kathy created a very inspiring ball gown made from a black velvet dress embellished with Victorian lace and feathers at the base.

Our inside window is dripping with moss, vintage cloths and odds & ends.

Handmade pillows from Appetite and Vintage Trifles.

Martha Kohley from Vintage Trifles brought in a wonderful collection of Halloween creations. We have hand-glittered pumpkins and vintage photos embellished with hand cut paper hats and masks.

I love these creations from Tinsel Trading these delightful boxes called "Emporium Kits" are full of wonderful trinkets to make cards ornaments and whatever else you can think of.

Are these your family members? What fun they must have been!

More Vintage Trifles' whimsical creations!

Martha Kohley's one of a kind "Witch figure with broom" .....

"Witch figure on white pumpkin" and "Baby on pumpkin" are even more amazing close up as they are in the picture.

Wendy Addison's "Nevermore" Crow

We have several Wendy Addison black glitter pieces, crows, bats and black cats!

She is ready for a fun evening in her Halloween paper tiara.

Christine Marie Studio jewelry inspired by Halloween.

Halloween garland made from canning jar tops by Martha Kohley

Wicked as ever!!

Thea's Interiors Halloween window with colorful and creepy costumes in a melange of Halloween treats!

Trick or Treat?

Thea's Interiors

October First Thursday Pearl Art Walk

2010-10-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

DS Watkins

Joanne Kollman

Artist Reception during the Pearl's First Thursday Art Walk

October 7th

6-9 pm

Food & Wine.

Painter Joanne Kollman has created this show of landscapes

painted on location, En Plein Air, around Oregon and Washington.

Joanne Kollman

Book artist DS Watkins most recently has been exploring found

object collage with original poetry and will be showing her work.

DS Watkins

New York

2010-09-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

It has been a couple of weeks since I have been back from my stay in NYC and Massachusetts, it always takes a bit to process everything that I have seen and done while in a different city. My third time around is no different. I can easily describe my stay this time as relaxing, entertaining, enlightening and full of crazy fun! (I somehow luckily missed the bed bug infestation that hit Brooklyn and is now in Manhattan)

My first day in NY, Yorie and I walked around Brooklyn and viewed the cityscape, old apartments and picked up sea glass on a small beach (for future jewelry making!?)

The purpose of my trip to NY was to catch up with Yorie's and Rachael's lives, make a few fun antique purchases and visit just a couple of amazing old cemeteries. I found some great ones to photograph like the legendary Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, large, hilly and a little creepy but lovely just the same. Green-Wood Cemetery, in the heart of Brooklyn was beautiful with its large Gothic arch entrance and unusual tombs.

I am standing on the bridge that the Headless Horseman of Washington Irving's great tale of Ichabod Crane, rode his horse (not really, actually, the bridge once stood about 200 feet away) We enjoyed our lunch sitting on rocks in the stream below.

Washington Irving

I took a 2 day trip to Amherst to visit my friend Rachael and her lovely family who all dwell comfortably in a 150 + year old farm house on 5 acres. I took a liking to the Amherst area, it is a lot like Portland in many ways. I got to visit Emily Dickinson's home and her family cemetery. If you like small museums then you should visit this one. I wish I had more time to stay in Amherst, there are a lot of antiques to buy there and it is a beautiful city with so much history. I can't wait to go back and visit Rachael again!

I arrived back in Manhattan much rested and ready for adventure. We listened to jazz music in Harlem (after spending over an hour extra on the subway because we were talking so much we missed 3 different stops)
We saw a wonderful play in Brooklyn, "What the Butler Saw", and listened to Lake Simon sing beautiful original songs with her partner playing guitar and the harmonica. Lake Simon is a professional puppeteer from Brooklyn (pictured at right)

St. Nick's in Harlem.

My Birthday Cake!

Changing of the guard at the memorial.

On September 11th, I went down to Ground Zero to see the memorial. I didn't go in the morning as I knew there would be a lot more people than I could meander through. I arrived at around 4pm and there was still a large crowd of both visitors and trouble makers. I paid my respects to the victims and viewed the construction before I headed back to Brooklyn.

Eating my cake and tea on the rooftop.

The number 6!

Hell's Kitchen Flea, I found old ironstone, letters, signs and a great 1950's ivory colored coat. I liked this flea market, it had a great view of the city and the vendors were so very nice. Everyone I talked to had either heard so many great things about Portland or had spent a lot of time here and loved it.

I had been to the Chelsea Fleamarket before and I was pleased to see that it was still the same. The indoors section in the garage is the best part, better dealers and some great antiques.

I loved these little people but for $700 I knew I would have to wait.

In my past life I must have been an antique dealer! Either that or an archaeologist,

I can't get enough of old junk and the charm of imagining who once owned it!

The NYC flea markets are a lot of fun. I found enough to bring back and not break my back doing it. I loved these old cameras and I would have brought one home in a minute if I couldn't get his business card! I picked up old clock hands, tin type photographs, lots of old letters from bronze to aluminum and lots in between. I am kicking myself for not bringing back a few items I just couldn't make my mind up about but there is always next time.

Tinsel Trading

Ah, Tinsel Trading. What a delight! Sara was a lot of help showing me the Christmas creations that I will be receiving in November. I was so delighted to see all the girls who work on the floor also putting together Wendy Addison's beautiful creations. I am so excited and I hope I put my Halloween order in on time.

Good bye for now, until next time NY and Yorie!

Thea's Interiors

Susan Wheeler Home

2010-09-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

My husband and I had a rare opportunity to go to Seattle and visit some wonderful shops last weekend. One of our dearest friends was getting married and we decided to go up a day early and wander about.

I have had Susan Wheeler's shop on my list since she opened in October of 2009. I have know Susan for awhile, we would see each other at all the antiques shows in the Pacific NW and chit chat. I have always admired her beautiful style but until I saw it in her new shop, a more perminant establishment, I never grasped how talented and unique her style was. Her style covers all genres of design and it is mixed and merchandised perfectly.

Along with her style, she also is a very gracious person.

Susan Wheeler Home is located in Georgetown, next to Kirk Albert, two must see shops in Seattle.

Susan Wheeler Home

5515 Airport Way S.

Seattle, Wa.

360.402.5080

Thea's Interiors

Ode to Water

2010-08-30T16:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a recent poem by my son, Cristiano. He is a bright and handsome 6'1", 14 year old!

Ode to water

You may cover Earth and life

You hold the life that prospers

I do give an ode to something of importance.

We sail you

Cross you

Without you we do not prosper

Your land for boats

Sky for fish and vital part of sanity

We use you to our advantage

And you come with a disadvantage

I give this ode with feeling

WATER

by Cristiano V. Coleman

Collections

2010-08-20T12:03:00.000-07:00

What do I do in my spare time? I try and find collections for the shop!

Here are some collections that we consider fun, useful and visually stimulating

Shells reflect the calm and strength of the ocean. We find them while strolling along the beach early in the morning or in my shop!

Frogs! and not the frogs we would catch near the pond but vintage art pottery frogs for flower arrangements.

Large, small, colors that pop and others that blend, we found this great collection from my mom.

I always love letters and signs. We just received a few nice black letters to go with our collection for you.

What do you collect??

Thea's Interiors

Christine LeFever during the August First Thursday Art Walk in the Pearl

2010-08-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to have local artist Christine LeFever bring her beautiful handmade dolls in for this months

First Thursday Art Walk in the Pearl.

Christine will be here from 6-9 on Thursday, August 5.

She is part of the Country Living Magazine Guild of Artisans.

She is a local artist and maker of 18th and 19th century dolls in the early American style.

Meet Christine and her dolls while enjoying food and wine.

Thea's Interiors

Barn House 2010

2010-08-02T21:55:00.000-07:00

Lynne and Angela just before the Barn House Flea Market opened.

plus our partner in crime, Heather!!

After the show, packing up with style!

Thank you Joe and Jermonne for a great time!!!!!

Thea's Interiors

Appetite

2010-07-18T14:20:00.000-07:00

I hope you have an Appetite, if you don't we just received a new stock of local designer Appetite's hand silk screened linens.

These are about my favorite items in the store right now. The simply, elegant and vintage inspired designs are Appetite's originals. We have pillows, runners, napkins and hand towels.

We are very excited about our online shop and we will update you as to when it will be officially launched, we are shooting for the end of August.

Thea's Interiors online shop will have all of the favorites and unique items we love to find.

Let us know what you would like to see for sale?

Thea's Interiors

Happy Fourth!!

2010-07-05T12:55:00.001-07:00

Hope you had a wonderful fourth of July!!

Thea's Interiors

Best Friends Wedding

2010-07-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

All the best things went wrong!

It was a beautiful sunny summer mid morning, when the wedding party was supposed to arrive at the historic church in Albany. Chris arrived in his tux for the 10am pictures only to be surprised to see the groom polishing his Mustang in his street clothes. Chris and I glanced at each other only to assume that there must be a good reason for the fresh wax. One hour and half later, the last groomsman arrives, the lights on the street and church are finally back on and the 3 tiered cake, after having been rescued by my sister from a close death to the floor, was now three individually one layered cakes. Pictures were taken, guests arrived and everything was wonderful.

Did I mention the bride was glowing!!

This was my first adventure in making a bouquet of any kind. I was kind of proud of myself even if it took me over an hour. It had to be perfect for Jacqueline!

Jacqueline giving the flower girl the last minute instructions on her important role. This is of course how a teacher shows her students how to do something.

Ring bearer and flower girl taking a moment to get to know each other.

The were a perfect pair and kept each other company for 2 days.

Love and happiness to the bride and groom!

Thea

Mt Tabor Stair Crawl & Coffee

2010-06-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

One day while eating a delicious lunch at Bakery Bar (yummy) with my dear friend Laurie, our conversation touched on the subject of exercise. Laurie came up with a brilliant idea of meeting at the Mt. Tabor stairs a couple of early mornings each week to trot up them.

One cold wet, wet early morning we enthusiastically began to jog up the stairs which quickly turned into a walk and then nearly a crawl for me! Laurie is in much better shape although she is nice enough to act like we are both hurting bad!

Last week we counted the stairs, 280 and we do this twice!

Laurie suggested we grab a cup of joe one morning and that gave birth to my idea of trying a new coffee shop once a week. What better way to try one of Portland's best pastimes than with a good friend after a morning of exercise.

Stumptown on Belmont was our first coffee shop. I am not a coffee critic but I will say yes, I enjoyed my latte and the atmosphere!

When in Portland, do what the Portlanders do, drink coffee.

Thea's Interiors

June First Thursday event

2010-06-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

First Thursday was an elegant evening at Thea's Interiors. We were surrounded by talented artist and beautiful wedding inspired jewelry and gifts. The weather was a little wet but we had a nice crowd and a good time.

Kathy Zell created the beautiful mannequin with the elegant French style dress.

Julie Verburg shows off her designs.

Vickie Wooten's designs.

Amy Olson and her jewelry.

Amy Olson Designs close up.

Julie and Charlotte take a moment to catch up before the event begins.

Vintage French silk wedding dress.

Who is this handsome guy!?

Cheers!!

Thank you to everyone who participated and came out to enjoy the evening with us!

Thea's Interiors.

Wedding Whimsy, First Thursday

2010-06-01T23:14:00.000-07:00

Kathy Zell designed the beautiful lady for our window.

Wedding Whimsy this First Thursday Art Walk on June 3rd from 5-9pm.

Artist Julie Verburg with The Withies

Amy Olson Designs

Vicki Wooten with Gossamer Designs

Here is a sneak peek of one of Vicki Wooten's exclusive designs for our event!

We are very excited about all the new product that our artists have been busily creating.

Tell your friends and family to come in and see these new designs and the enjoy food and wine.

What is a princess without her crown?

Thea's Interiors

No place like somewhere else

2010-05-26T23:26:00.000-07:00

What inspired me to create a traveling theme window? The weather for one!! I can think of a million different places to be that would be less dreary than Oregon right now, but beautiful sunshine is right around the corner and we will all but forget about the wet and cold May we have been suffering with.

Two of my favorite sources, Jackie and Lynne had wonderful collections of globes and maps, perfect for what I was envisioning for the shop window and to stimulate my customers imagination about the far away places we sometimes get to see.

There is no place like home, most of the time!

Thea's Interiors.

June First Thursday, Wedding Whimsy

2010-05-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

I am always looking for inspiration from my everyday surroundings and experiences. Many times I am inspired by what hasn't happened yet, the anticipation is exciting and full of wonder so it stimulates my creativity. This year is a very special year for two of my dearest friends, marriage! So I couldn't get my mind off of the beauty and whimsy that everyone involved experiences and it got me thinking...we should have an event inspired by weddings. Our event is titled "Wedding Whimsy" and it will be part of the Pearl's First Thursday Art Walk on June 3rd from 5-9pm.

One of the most creative and kindest artists we know, Julie, with The Withies will be one of the special guests along with a favorite jewelry designer, Amy Olson Designs. My good friend Kathy Zell will be designing one of her beautiful and whimsical mannequins for our window and Vickie Wooten with Gossamer Designs has some special crowns in store for the event.

The Withies has created beautiful paper wedding cakes, embelished with vintage lace, pearls and whimsical ornaments.

Amy Olson has been busy designing jewelry for brides and her wedding party. Amy uses a variety of stones and metals to create her unique designs. Her designs work well with Thea's Interiors, they have a vintage inspired warmth about them.

Come in and enjoy these amazing artists from Portland during our Wedding Whimsy event on June 3rd. We will be serving wine and edibles while you meet the artist, see their new designs and shop.

Celebrating the beauty in our world.

Thea's Interiors

A little bit of British goes a long way!

2010-03-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

I would like to imagine myself sitting atop a double decker bus looking down at the busy people in London or viewing curious and beautiful places in Britian. Well, I may not be able to do this while sitting on my sofa today but I have been enjoying a little bit of British history everyday with the authentic 1960's British trolley signs we have hanging in the shop. They are not only graphically bold but they are visually amusing even if you may not recognize many of the British names.

One of my favorite signs in right now is "Load of Mischief", we are not really sure what this means but it is cool.

The New York Times just featured one of Home Economics new ottomans upholstered in their vintage British trolley sign fabric. We have one on the floor and they can be custom ordered too.

Until next time!

Thea's Interiors

What's in for Easter

2010-03-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Wendy Addison's beautiful creations since the first time I saw them at a trade show in San Francisco. One of my favorite Christmas experiences was to order the new Wendy Addison collection for my shop in Sellwood. Last year I decided to buy only handmade Christmas items, so her collections were off limits to me.

It was a wonderful surprise when I ran across her in San Francisco on the recent girls road trip last month. I was pleased to find out that she now has a new line that is made in her studio in the bay area and in New York City. Everything is handmade by her or under her personal supervision.

So now I once again carry Wendy Addison's beautiful collection and I am proud to announce that they are made in the US.

The Withies created these wonderful nests for my shop. This one has been delicately placed in a vintage bowl with a great vintage iron base. This nest specimen is my favorite because of the variety of fern, twigs and feathers she used.

Wendy Addison has made these great gift boxes and embellished them with either glitter eggs or doves and a greeting.

The Withies hand stamped the white feathers with greatings and uplifting words. Her studio is full of wonderful treasures and I have so much fun handpicking things for my shop.

This beautiful nest with a glitter egg may have to find a home in my house. Isabella will just love it to death, literally, so I may have to think twice about it. I have a few in the shop and each one is unique.

The Withies just loves eggs and she gave me her wonderful collection of wood, glass and handpainted eggs to share.

I bought just a couple of the flying sparrows by Wendy Addison, they come in pink and silver glitter.

Everything I brought in for Easter has been handpicked and is limited.

What a beautiful day!

Thea's Interiors

For the Love of Paper!

2010-03-15T13:49:00.000-07:00

I love paper!

Growing up with antique dealers as parents, I was destined to either hate antiques or love everything old. My first love was paper. I remember looking at old photos and old stinky books and being enthralled with their history and stories. As I went into college I was able to experiement with paper more then I ever knew I could. I was a photography major who filled any extra time with paper making, marbling, intaglio and artist books courses. After college I was busy with photography and my family so I began to collect books to keep the fire alive.

That brings me to Portland, this wonderful city full to the brim with amazing artists who love ephemera!

Antique books with beautiful leather covers are rich with color and age. Who can pass up such an amazing piece of history.

The Withies has created these fun ribbon bound antique books. Whimsical and charming I loved them the moment I saw them.

Addison Endpapers from Oakland, California has made these cute black labels from her workshop. They are perfect as gift labels and art projects.

Words, words, words! The flashcards were in instant hit with all of my customers. I haven't even stored away any for myself they have been flying out the door so fast.

Vintage French postcards. I didn't find them in France but until then I can dream.

Thea's Interiors

Craving Modern

2010-03-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

I'm not one for clutter and that probably explains why I find myself drawn to mid century and modern design. It also explains why I'm loving our newest jewelry line, Modernica. It's a great mix of beautiful wood and bright clear color like orange, blue and green produced by using resin. The line includes necklaces, small and large, and a nice mix of different earring styles.

Modernica is another one of our handpicked locally made line of jewelry.

Pamela and Thea

Modern Vintage

Wonderful Windows!

2010-03-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

Cindy, from Tarte, has been in recently and reworked our front windows. They look amazing! Our Glisan Street window is full of bright yellows, grays and whites. Featuring Cindy's hand crafted paper mache deer heads and lots of great yellow accessories, it screams spring! I adore the vintage chair upholstered in a gray, yellow, white and green floral print. It feels fresh and of the moment, but with a nod to the past at the same time.

Our Glisan street window features birds, birds and more birds. We have a wonderful assortment of bird cages, small nests and bird accessories. The bird cages are sculptural and beautiful on their own, but they are also great filled with some of your favorite things. A little nest from the yard, a collection of seaglass or your favorite flowering plant. A great way to welcome spring into your house!

Thoughts from Pamela: Spring has Sprung?

2010-02-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

The last few days have made me feel like Spring has sprung! It has been sunny and beautiful and little weeds are starting pop up in the garden already. One of the projects I've been thinking about over the winter is making garden focal points out in the yard. Wouldn't it be great to look out the dining room windows and see a nice vignette with beautiful flowers, plants and garden furniture? That would be a vast improvement over my current view, which consists of a large blue trampoline. I'm itching to do up some spring containers and place them so I can enjoy them from the windows.

We have great concrete urns in the shop that would be beautiful filled with a few boxwood and some bright colored tulips. They'd also look great with a few daffodils and some pansies in your favorite color. Add a wrought iron chair or old cafe table and you've got a great focal point.

I've recently moved my bird bath to outside my living room window and I've enjoyed watching the birds playing in the rain water. I love this image with roses framing the bird bath. President's Day is the traditional rose planting time in Portland, so if you didn't get to it this weekend get on it! Happy Spring!

What We Did In San Francisco

2010-02-15T12:41:00.000-08:00

We made it! we drove into San Francisco at 6pm on a rainy Thursday night last week. Dawn arrived soon after we did via airplane.

The next morning was beautiful! we grabbed some pastries and searched for, "Nest", our first shop to visit on Filmore St.

Dawn and Laurie mapping out the next stop.

I wish we could grow succulents this big in Oregon, it was twice the size of my head.

One of the most creative window displays I saw was at Tail of the Yak. This was such a fantastic shop, a must see!

Street art.

Yummy food!

A nice view of the Golden Gate Bridge on one of our long walks around the city.

Dawn and I loved this shop called "Aria" on Grant Ave.We found some Great Findz, no pun intended, and we could have spent a lot of hours digging through the eclectic blend of ephemera, linens and odds and ends. The shop patron was very nice.

Tail of the Yak, Bell'occhia and Castle in the Air were the top three on my list for shops you shouldn't miss.

Sandy, Thea and Lynne at The Tattered House booth at the Alameda Flea Market.

At the Alameda Flea Market I saw every letter in every size color and style you could imagine, I did go a little crazy.

I didn't have much time to take pictures of all the great stuff I bought but I snapped a shot of these great chippy spindles I found.

Angela taking a break after a long day of shopping.

I would have bought this leather club chair if we could have fit it in the car.

The weather couldn't have been better for a day of shopping. There had been a chance of rain but the antique gods were looking down on us with favor that day.

Lynne found several great fences that she will be selling at the Monticello garden show later in the year.

Angela pushing the last load!

I will post my favorites as soon as I finish unpacking!

Thea's Interiors

Thoughts for Mr. Valentine!

2010-02-08T13:54:00.000-08:00

Are you trying to figure out what to get your husband, boyfriend or partner for Valentine's Day? Well, come down to Thea's and take a look at all the great things we have that would be perfect for the man in your life.

Thinking of something for his office? We have antique leather books, large letter boxes with marbled sides and leather travel books. Any or all of these would look great on his bookshelves or sitting on his desk. Tired of looking at his golf tournament plaques everytime you pop in to his office to say hi! How about a vintage trolley sign to jazz up the office walls. We have large trolley banners with English townames on them or smaller banners with numbers on them. Both of these have a sharp, clean and bold feeling to them. Does he need a comfortable spot to read or go over papers? How about pairing his favorite chair with an industrial feeling side table. It's masculine lines would harmonize nicely with any office furniture.

Give him something that's unique this year. After all, he's one of a kind! Happy Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day Gifts for Her!

2010-02-05T14:00:00.000-08:00

Hoping for a great gift from your Valentine? If he's anything like my husband, a few helpful hints to steer him in the right direction are always appreciated. With that in mind, encourage him to swing by Thea's and check out some of the great new items we have in a the moment.

We recently brought in two new jewelry artists. The line, called Modernica is a great combination of natural materials such as wood and glass. Also new to the shop is Apoidea Project, her necklaces are created using vintage watch parts and are arranged in a fun and graphic way. We also have some new pieces by Moss which combine beadwork with crocheting. If you're looking for a great new piece to jazz up your wardrobe, Thea's is your place!

Speaking of jazzing things up, how about a new throw pillow for your bed. Up the romance factor by making your bedroom a place of beauty by adding new pillows. We have a new shipment of Great Finds pillows in the shop! Using vintage fabrics she's collected over time, Dawn mixes them with linen, fills them with the highest quality of down and creates amazing new pillows.

Another way to bring beauty to your boudoir is by adding some art. We have a great set of original watercolor paintings of Paris, by renowned artist Charles De Montfort. Mr. De Montfort's pieces capture French scenes in the 50's and his work is owned by collectors around the world. Add a little Joie de Vivre to your life with these pieces.

Hope to see you, or your special Valentine, in the shop soon!

Road trip with the girls

2010-02-03T22:29:00.000-08:00

This has been a long time coming, a road trip with other antique enthusiasts and what a better place

than San Francisco. So on the road we go on Thursday, bright and early, full of caffeine

and excited for the change of city.

Lynne, Angela, Laurie and myself are driving down in a nice comfortable SUV, while Dawn is flying and will meet us there. We have made some plans and there are certain places on our agenda; like the Alameda flea market, the San Francisco trade show, the adorable "Castle in the Air" shop in Berkley, Russian Hill, restaurants and more restaurants!!

I will keep you posted.

Thea

Time well spent

2010-02-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

Happy first of February!

I was dumbstruck by the beauty of these little antique ladies' watches, reclaimed for a second life as a frame for a handpainted picture by artist Heather Shackelford with Apoidea Project. These charming pendants are unique and splendidly painted in particular detail that almost requires an eye glass.

Heather is a local artist who uses found-objects and antique design components to create her jewelry. She is inspired by William Morris whose philosophy of function and beauty are one.

What do you do with the insides of a watch? This is what you do, you make it into a little work of art and hang it from your neck for everyone to see.

An apple orchard is as serene and refreshing as the real apple!

When I first saw this mechanical wonders re-worked I couldn't stop admiring the care of detail the artist took with each piece.

All these works of art are availible at Thea's Interiors.

They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.

Andy Warhol

Thea's Interiors

Locket 2 You

2010-01-30T11:57:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to find these adorable lockets in Portland and have the artist bring them into Thea's Interiors. Lockets 2 You, makes these charming, utilitarian and never boring specimens of jewerlry. After a long chat with one of the artist, I felt that I had known him for longer than the 30 minutes. There isn't much that's better than wonderful art and nice people; one of the many reasons I love what I do and why I love Portland.

The whimsical rabbits have been a favorite but all of the designs are fun and amusing. Each one is hung from a brass chain and embellished with colorful beads.

Love Portland!

Thea's Interiors

Hello!

2010-01-20T10:26:00.000-08:00

Hello! My name is Pamela and I am one of the gals who works for Thea at Thea's Interiors. I am here one day a week and have a great time helping customers, rearranging small displays and dusting, dusting, dusting! The rest of the time, I am a stay at home mother, lover of art and design, avid traveler and gardener. I also love to do projects around the house like sprucing up an orphan piece of furniture found at Goodwill! I"ll be joining Thea in posting once a week.

This week, I'm going to share my favorite spot in my house with you. It's my sunroom. I've always wanted a sunroom since I moved to Oregon twenty years ago and I immediately claimed it as my personal space when we bought the house. Unfortunately, the rest of my family ignores my stake and I often find my sunroom cluttered with seventh grade homework and my husband's sports page. Oh well, it was worth a try.

The sunroom is approximately 10 x 25 and wrapped in windows on three sides. The remaining side is filled with French doors that lead to my living room. It is always bright, even on Oregon's grayest days and a great place to read or sip coffee in the morning. We also use it as an office and have located the computer in this space. It is filled with an eclectic mix of old and new pieces. The pullout couch is a newer piece along with a few lamps. The bookshelf is an antique hand me down from my mother. The desk is an estate sale find. The wicker chair was picked up at a garage sale. The coffee table is Austrian pine and is full of dings and random nails added over it's many years. The chair at the desk comes from my grandfather's tavern and makes me think of him. Scattered throughout the room and used to hold papers and pens is my collection of 40's pottery. It's a great example of mixing new and old things to create a livable space.

This little sunroom sees more living than all the other rooms in our house. It is comfortable and cozy, but the wrap around windows make you feel like you're in the garden. Our house is on a corner, so you can look out the windows and have this great sense of space. That's hard to come by in an established urban neighborhood and helps make the room even more special. At the end of the day, my family can all be found snuggled on the couch, feet on the coffee table, sharing our tales of the day. And as bright and cheery as it is, the fact that everyone always gravitates to this room is what really makes it my favorite!

Ophelia

2010-01-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

Shakespeare's Ophelia is reborn in the modern age by our artist friend John Gamboa with oil paints and canvas. A friend was having a private open house/birthday party over the weekend (happy birthday again!!) this was my favorite piece of the show but was already spoken for so I could only admire it.

Beautiful colors are lined up on the artist's table ready for the artist's

hand to aspire to a new creation.

Here is the artist (in bow tie) chatting with his guests.

Thank you for an inspiring evening of art and chatter.

Here's to inspiration!

Thea's Interiors

What I do with a few quiet hours to myself

2010-01-08T16:56:00.000-08:00

I was enjoying a quiet Friday morning without kids so I decided to visit an estate sale. As I stood in line chatting with friends, shivering in the cold, I felt very content. I wasn't looking for much, maybe something charming, sparkly or even practical. After roaming around the house for about 1 hour, I was more than happy with my finds and I paid up.
I thought my two owls were so cute!! I was proudly showing them off to Lynne yesterday thinking that she was going to fully agree with me! As I place them gingerly on the counter, Lynne exclaims" Oh, my gosh, put them in my Goodwill bag right now!"

I was in shock, dumbfounded, I thought she was joking, how could she think they were not cute?

I love keys, you love keys, we all love keys.

this sweet little vintage butterfly broach is delicately painted on an old plastic. A large glass amethyst colored stone sits in the center

Happy weekend!!

Thea's Interiors

Favorites by Pamela

2010-01-05T12:49:00.000-08:00

The holidays often serve as a time of reflection, when we are reminded of all the blessings we have been given. Whether that be your family, your job or your house, it is a good time to think about what's right with your life and what brings you happiness. Along these lines, we will be sharing some of the things that bring joy into our lives here in Portland.

One of my favorite things about Portland is the beautiful older neighborhoods. Each has its' own flavor and distinct feel. These neighborhoods help shrink the world we live in, allowing us to experience small town friendliness in a big city. I am lucky enough to live in one of these special neighborhoods. Located about two miles from downtown Portland, our neighborhood is full of houses ranging in style from Norman Tudor to Colonial to Arts and Crafts. It is a place where kids can still ride their bikes safely, play in the street without worry and run down to the local pool for a summer swim. With coffee shops, bakeries, grocery stores, schools and a library within walking distance, I consider it an ideal place to live. We even have a pharmacy with an old fashioned soda fountain, complete with milkshakes, malts and Green River soda. It is definitely one of my favorite things about Portland!

2010-01-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

As we enter the New Year, our blog will have a new look and new contributors. We are adding items from the shop we think you might like and two of the gals who work at Thea's, Lynne and Pamela, will be doing periodic postings. We hope you like the new look and content. Happy New Year!

A New Year!

2010-01-04T17:18:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! We hope your new year will be filled with joy!

Bella's crown was designed & made by Queen of Tarte!

Felice Anno Nuovo, Bellissima Signora!!

Thea's Interiors

Tree of Shoes

2009-12-14T16:19:00.000-08:00

When wandering through estate sales and flea markets, I often find a small booty or a worn child's shoe from the turn of the century tucked away in a box of mementos. I imagine that child taking it's first step or another child playing and jumping until the shoe is worn and in need of repair. If we could only see what those shoes saw, what a fun experience that would be.

My friend Nancy has been collecting a variety of baby shoes and booties for years. This year, she finally pulled them all out and put them together on a beautiful green noble tree. The tree is filled with small shoes and booties of all shapes and sizes, some formal and some designed for everyday use. Stop by the shop and join us in admiring this beautiful tree!

Blessings!!

Thea

Joy

2009-12-04T14:47:00.000-08:00

This year I have a lot to be thankful for. I am thankful for all the amazing woman that are in my life. I am greatful for the creative and professional Lynne, Charlotte, Pamela and Nancy whom help me run Thea's Interiors. Christmas just wouldn't be the same without them and Cindy from Tarte and her stunning pink window. Our pink window continues to be a joy to our customers. I had never known that so many people collect and decorate their homes in a pink Christmas theme! It has been a lot of fun for all of us.
Feathers were the inspiration for the new window, it is light and fluffy yet warm and elegant. I found the perfect feather tree from The Worthy Goods and the bed is from Tarte.

A'Musements has just created these icon ornaments, they are cradle in a glass orb and sprinkled with glitter. I have know Karen from A'Musements for a very long time. She has been an inspiration of mine since I was a child and I continue to love her art and creations.

A'Musements created the pink and satin slipper to hang gently from the tree.

Happy Holidays!!!!

What's New For Christmas!! November 27

2009-11-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

Every week will be receiving new, locally made product for Christmas.

Our local artist are busy at work creating the best gifts.

Teri Sprouse just brought in her handmade enamel pendents! Colorful and charming, these are a great gift.
Do you need a little color on your door? We have rosehip wreaths.
Hand made stockings from vintage and antique linens.
My Little Buffallo has made the cutest cards!! We have Christmas cards and everyday greetings. Anna Corba unscented candles are whimsical and hand made.

Check us out weekly for new additions to our vintage and local gift ideas!

Thea's Interiors

The Withies Christmas show

2009-11-27T12:44:00.001-08:00

December 4th is a very special night. The Withies will have a beautiful and joyful evening of treasures and friendship.
The event is from 6-9pm and is on the corner of Sixth and E St. at the "The Holly House" in Lake Oswego.

Christmas Dreams

2009-11-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

Thea's Interiors is so excited to have some of the most creative artist as part of our Christmas display. We decided to go all local this year for Christmas and in doing so we have been able to produce an eclectic and beautiful display of vintage, pink and dreamy creations.
Cindy from Tarte came in with her signature look and produced an elegant pink Christmas display.

As you scroll down you will be introduced to each artist and a small sample of their creations. Santa by Leah Anderson is one of the best old world Santa paintings I have seen. We have a giclee and of course you can have it made in any size. Take home a small version as a Christmas card. We also have Magpie Ethel and her gorgeous wreaths made from all vintage ornaments.

Pearls is one of our many themes this year. D.Sharp made up a few German glitter creations for us and we now carry My Little Buffallo Christmas cards and gift tags.

Vintage Trifles created wonderful garland made from vintage flash cards and tinsel.

Pink is our Christmas theme this year thanks to Tarte!!
We couldn't have done it without her and Lynne creating an amazing display!
Pink Christmas trees ornaments and globes from Tarte.
Magpie Ethel's wreath on a mirror looks stunning!

One of our favorite artists is Jackie Hoyt and her fabulous collage creations. We have two in for Christmas but you can also have her create a custom one for you and your memories.

Rose hip wreaths for your door.

Withies has brought in her collection of vintage ornaments. These will not last long!

A vintage mannequin is adorned by a glitter star and Withies necklace.

We have saved our collection of pearls and vintage rhinestone jewelry just for the holidays.

Vintage books and Magpie Ethel's clip ornaments.

Nancy Dean has scavenged her farm for all the right ingredients for her swags. Sugar pine cones are the main ingredient.

Withies has created journals from vintage books and embellished with cute vintage objects.

Charlotte has once again created her Asian inspired ornaments. Hand made from silk fabric and embellished with butterflies and umbrellas.

Scoop of Pearls and vintage French flash cards to embellish your gifts.

"Pearl of Wisdom" by Withies!

Come in and see our ever changing Christmas. We will be adding several new artist for Christmas in the next couple of weeks so we will keep you posted.

Happy Holidays!!

Thea's Interiors

My Favorite Finds This Summer

2009-10-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

My summer was an interesting one. Doctors orders prohibited me to drive all summer so I had to rely on my dear friend Lynne, my parents, husband and other generous friends to drive me from here to there. Despite that, I was able to find some wonderful decorator items or friends just brought in their amazing things to me. Now that life is back to normal, I can reflect on my summer and see that despite how uneventful it was compared to past years, I had a great time too. Life has just taken on a different perspective for me. I am enjoying it more, not taking things so seriously and trying to live for the moment. Life is short, say hello and goodbye like you mean it.

Around early September I felt like I was getting back into the groove again, I wanted to merchandise, I could take an interest in all my customers. Lynne, Charlotte, Pamela and Nancy have been a big part of that. Without them, Thea's Interiors would have closed its doors but because of them I could take my time and when I was ready, take over the reins.

Thea's Interiors is creatively, emotionally and product wise, stronger than ever.

Here are just a few of my favorite things from the summer, many of them bring a big smile to my face because of the richness, love and history that they carry with them.

Vintage porcelain glove mold , old plastic boccie balls and bright yellow letters.
This yellow either makes me cringe because of its brightness or makes me smile with sunshine!
Peggy Del Rosario hand painted chandelier.

Sweet cherub with wheat, concrete statue.

I always love the vintage 1917, metal letters!

"Monogrammed Heirlooms", embroidered hand towel.
She is the best!

I found this amazing zinc shelf at Farm Chicks this summer. The pillows are of course, "Great Findz" Dawn is amazing!!!

Speaking of Dawn! she dragged me over to meet Dewayne and his fantastic vintage British trolley signs.
Love it!!

"Moss" makes these hand crocheted necklaces. The cutest jewelry I have in the store by far!

"Max & Lucie" is now part of our jewelry family! Her designs are fresh , colorful and a joy to wear! I was thrilled to find her and for her to be at Thea's Interiors.

This is it! of course I can't pass up a good pair of shoe forms! Withies gave me this great hand painted poem and the flash cards are hot, hot!!!

Thank you!! for everything!!

The Ambassador, Street of Dreams

2009-08-12T14:20:00.001-07:00

Leah artist reception August 6th 5-8

2009-08-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Leah Anderson is our artist for August and September. If you have never seen her art in person you will be mesmerized by her beautiful images of farm animals, sea birds and children. She paints on a bigger scale than you would expect thus producing an overwhelming delight!!

Leah, who is a gentle person by nature has a passion for horses and family. This passion is evident in her paintings. Each brush stroke seems to not only have the most caressing of soft colors but her passion for life is elegantly painted onto each canvass.

The soft colors of each subject is deep and subtle at the same time and her realism is very fine.

Leah has had a life long appreciation for art & she feels that her impressionistic works allow her to express herself in a way that people can not only see but feel. Her artistic inspirations derive from the special moments in life that create feelings of calm & serenity.
Leah will be showing original oil paintings & glicee prints.
Come meet the artist at our reception during the Pearl District’s
August First Thursday Art Walk. We will have wine tasting from Ankeny Vineyard Winery as well as food & refreshments from 5-8pm. Leah’s work will be displayed throughout the months of August & September at Thea’s Interiors.

Matt Sheehy

2009-08-02T19:24:00.000-07:00

Barn House Flea Market

2009-07-27T12:00:00.000-07:00

If I ever write anything on time will be a miracle! My excuse, sometimes good times need time to breath like a fine wine! That is just how I feel about Jo, Jermonne and the Barn House.

Lynne, Heather and I spent a hot but great weekend on July 17 & 18 at their farm in Battleground. I was just along for the ride (what better excuse to hang out and shop for antiques) while they sold at the Barn House flea market.

Jo& Jermonne were so busy that I never got a picture of them, next time! We met a great family from Roseville, Ca. They own The Tattered House and they brought a yummy dessert and a breakfast cake that you can see Lynne licking further down the blog!

Heather and Lynne enjoy the amazing pot luck dinner the day before the show. Jermonne cooked a wonderful chicken on the BBQ and everyone brought something to share.

Resting by the fire pit in the boy's back yard!

Scene from a distance. Later that day the entire field was full of cars.

Cindy from Tarte had an amazing booth!! of course!

Heather and Lynne pricing.

A few things I bought from Sue.

The boy's yard.

From the garden.

Lynne as cute as can be!!!

Ready to take your money!

I realise that I didn't take any pictures of the crowd. Well, I was to busy helping Lynne with sales. The day turned out great and we met wonderful people, new customers and regular customers.

Heather in a vintage dress and apron and looking sexy!!

Lynne, eating off of the breakfast tray!

Lynne, Lynne!

What ever shall I do with you!

Thank you Jo and Jermonne for an amazing weekend and for the invite. I slept well for my 4 hours!!
Thank you Lynne and Heather!!!!

2009 Street of Dreams preview

2009-07-09T12:31:00.000-07:00

Chris and I delivered our product to unit 1001 this week and we got a peek of the almost finished penthouse. It looks amazing!! I will have finished pictures in the next few weeks before the opening on August 1st.

Porcelain glove mold hand displayed in one of the bathrooms

I found this great architectural mirror at the Spokane Farm Chicks show in June. I bought it from a very inspiring and beautiful woman who owns Chaps in Spokane. http://www.chapsgirl.com/

Finished architectural mirror with crackle finish hanging up in the music room.

I happened to find this industrial table at a second hand store when I was out shopping with Lynne. It was covered with boxes and hidden by miscellaneous junk. Could this be what I was looking for? I was excited about the project and I knew I had only 2 weeks to finish it for Phyllis and the Street of Dreams but I believed I could get it done.

While cleaning the base I happened on the embossed label, "Old Chicago".

After 5 days of stripping, sanding, buffing, painting, cleaning and sealing! We placed the 1/2 beveled cut glass on top and yes! it was beautiful and Phyllis really liked it!!

Meet Chatherine and Suzanne!

2009-05-14T13:04:00.000-07:00

Barn House

2009-05-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

On a beautiful and sunny Saturday morning, Lynne and I ventured up to Battleground, Wa. for the Barn House Boys sale. It was my first antique show since my illness and it couldn't have been a nicer day. As we stood in line at 7:45 am, there was just a slight shill in the air that was soothed by the warm sun. Julie and Lynne at Barn House

Isabel as bright as always.

After about 2 hours, Lynne and I just about filled her car full of great finds. My favorite part of the morning was visiting with all the great people who were part of the show or shopping like us!

Henny!

The foul were all hiding behind the antiques.

Lynne reaching high for that treasure.

Japanese textiles

2009-01-24T17:50:00.000-08:00

My trip to Japan, opened my eyes to the beautiful world of Japanese textile like their obi and kimonos. Here are just a few of the textiles and their variety of motifs, colors and designs that I was able to pick up at flea markets in Tokyo. Many of the very old obi have symbolic meanings and the more recent obi are more decorative. All beautiful and full of energy.

The Kimono I picked up, still smells of cedar and some of the obi have a little wear from being lovingly used.

The bright colors and the rich golds and silvers are striking, I can only imagine seeing beautiful Japanese woman filling the streets of old Japan, their bright and exotic kimonos and obi dazzling to the eyes.

How inspiring to a decorater to use these textiles in a way that displays their beauty

Vintage Fukuro Obi

Vintage Nagoya Obi

Vintage Double Obi, Pine and Ship motif

Vintage Kimono, Ikat Weave. for young girl.

Vintage Nagoya Obi, Art Deco Style

Vintage Fukuro Obi, Botan Flowers in a Persian Karabana Motif

Local Portland artist and landscape designer Amy Bryant is displaying her fabulous leaf etchings in wax for the month of February. Her designs are naturalistic and vintage in inspiration.

Food & Color of Japan

2008-10-15T20:56:00.000-07:00

Salmon background & the complementary colors of white & mustard yellow.

On my recent trip to Japan to visit my dear friend Yorie, I experience many cultural difference, including their food. Japanese food is very diverse, colorful and full of wonderful flavors. Along with the cuisine their presentation was very important, almost everywhere we went. I have never felt the need to photograph my dish before I ate, but these were works of art.

My ramen noodles were so full of flavor, we went to a small ramen noodle restaurant in Tokyo. Sitting at a small counter, Japanese sitcom playing on the television, we ate our meal quietly because it was so good!

The rich wood tone contrast the warm bright yellows & greens.

At the Toufuya Ukai, in Shiba, we enjoyed a wonderful meal with our friend Carl. A five course meal, the ginkgo berry was so pretty I didn't want to eat it. Truth be told, I didn't know you could eat it!

Soft Persian opal blue surrounds the delicate textured white & rich brown.

Our meal at the Taikyourou hotel, in Izumo, located on the western Japan Sea Coast, we enyoyed a six course meal. This beautiful dish of cold noodles and what looks like an eggs was delicious. It was not an egg but full of lite flavors and soft noodles.

Texture & shape are harmonized with the salmon & green tones, white plays elegantly in contrast.

Once again our Taikyourou hotel meal presentation was stunning. We oood and awed! before we ate, savoring all the delightful textures and flavors of our meal.

Fiddle Head

2008-08-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

We found these beautiful fiddle head fern sculptors in Seattle. They scatter the ground and shoot up into the air like living creatures of steel. Our Isabel thought they were very cool and found running around them, time and time again, was the most fun she could have. We thought it was very cold and just wanted to go find some hot coffee! guess who won....

My little fashion diva knows her colors! the rich shade of violet and cool grey are just two of the fall/winter 2008-09 colors for fashion and interiors.

Reflective of the modern age and the future, deep grey and violet are cool colors that represent strength and technology.

It is a little hard to find these colors in the antique world, a few ideas are to look for mulberry on white English ironstone, it even sounds yummy!

Vintage steel and galvanized remnants found in barns or junk stores are a stunning accent on the wall of a hallway, above a headboard or over a console.

Victorian floral painting often have beautiful tones of violet and vintage violet flower embroidered textiles can make an amazing accent pillow.

We are open!

2008-06-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

actually, we opened over a month ago but I haven't had a moment to write since.
All is good at the 1204 location, a work in progress, we have accomplished a lot since April and there is so much more to do.
My goal is to have fun and not stress out about what hasn't been finished like, signs, website redesign and the list goes on.....
I have the most amazing help, my husband, Charlotte and Lynne. Without these amazing and creative people, I wouldn't be sitting here typing, I would be running around like a chicken freaking out about everything that I need to do!
But summer is here, how beautiful it is outside, the sun is so bright and warm. I try to work in the garden a little a day just to keep it from taking over. Our fruit is doing well accept the plums and the flowers have been rich with color.
My goal for design this summer is to bring nature inside by means of color and organic material. How amazing it is to have not just flowers and beautiful plants rich with life but to also bring in that which has once been alive and now supplies us with texture and shape. I have a variety of shells I have found on the beach, passed down from an estate sale or from my store and I place them in a crystal bowl or a white ceramic dish with my other found objects like agates, moss and old pieces of wood. This gives me inspiration and the shapes and colors are amazing to examine.
In the store I will be painting an accent wall a warm and sensual green, I haven't picked it out yet but I have some things in mind. This will bring the green that is outside on the trees and in the planters and bring it inside and add a feeling of life to the room.
Project, projects.

New Adventure

2008-04-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

After taking some time off, I have decided to re-open my antique store.
How exciting is that? well, it is very exciting.
We will be at our old location 1204 NW Glisan St. in the Pearl.
I am a little nervous but more thrilled than anything.
We hope to be open in May, fingers crossed but we think we can manage it.

Memories of Sellwood

2008-04-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

I was in my favorite neighborhood last weekend, Sellwood Antique Row, visiting some of my favorite stores. I have such fond memories of Sellwood, my mother and I had our antique store there for 9 years. My son wasn't 2 years old when we opened the doors on an early August day in 1997.

We had some of the best customers, I miss them all, but luckily, I do get to see many of them because the antique community is a small one here in Portland.

One of my fondest memories of Sellwood, is when the neighborhood would have its annual Summer Sidewalk Sale. The last one we participated in before we closed, was in August of 2005. We invited Ankeny Vineyard to give wine tasting. My energetic 85 year old grandmother was there, dusting the store from one end to the other. My 9 year old was helping out and my mom was keeping up with the food and customers. It was such a memorable day. Our customers would come in to see grandma, taste some wine and comment on the 4 generations that were running the store. It was a special time.

Sellwood will always have a special place in my heart.

One of my favorite places to purchase merchandise for my clients is, Please Be Seated, Laurie Austin has a wonderful mix of contemporary art and accessories as well as traditional dinnerware to die for.

I love going to Sweat Pea, I find some of the cutest cloths for my little girl there.

Europa Antique has some wonderful European antique furniture and gifts.

The newest store on the street is Madison Park, it is owned my 3 great antique dealers and is most charming! You must check it out.

Last but not least, Farmhouse Antiques, you will find some great items from very experience collectors and dealers.

Books and a rainy day

2008-03-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

"I will get the hang of this" I keep telling myself. Here I am, writing the first few words in my blog and I don't know what to say!?

Hmmm, spring is here and my creative mind has been hard at work planning Easter, Isabella's second birthday and Cristiano's 12th birthday. I have been busy at work decorating a clients family living room and finding the perfect furniture is not as easy as I would hope. I have also been busy covering ugly books with fun handmade paper and decorative prints. I was so tired of the ugly covers, I decided something had to be done, so on one of our rainy days! I pulled out the paper, took the less than attractive books off the book shelves and I busied myself with covering them.

It is so easy to do, I went to Paper Zone but Oblation also has wonderful wrapping paper to choose from.

Sometimes, I traced the dust jacket directly on the new paper and other times I placed the book cover on the wrapping paper and then I would trace it, leaving an inch or two in order to fold the paper inside the book.

What a difference! Now I won't stare at them and keep thinking how ugly the books are and that I should throw them in a box and put them in the basement. They even look good with our antique books.

I found this wonderful Sun Glass jar at the Expo Antique show one summer. I placed several pieces of colorful rock, moss and wood in the jar that we found on a recent hike. I decided it would be great as a bookend, it is heavy enough, decorative and holds memories for us.