Tana-rama

grey gardens

2011-03-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

Not nearly as eccentric as "Little Edie", this invitation is the perfect combination of tradition and whimsy. Bleu Dahlia creative can combine your favorite colors to come up with a design that is totally "you". Let's talk about your wedding, your budget and come up with an invitation that reflects your most original celebration and is worthy of a documentary...

are you a show-off bride?

2011-03-04T08:00:00.000-07:00

Getting ready for bride season and adding a couple of custom ideas to give those show-off brides some inspiration. Getting married? Call bleu dahlia creative for all of your wedding stationery needs!

follow your Photobliss!

2010-10-18T20:14:00.006-06:00

Had to show off this postcard I designed for my client Kari Jones of Photobliss. She's gearing up for her holiday show at Junior League's MarketPlace Magic. Her photos were so beautiful, the card designed itself... take a look! And be sure to visit her Nov 5,6 or 7th at MetraPark.

the stork delivers again...

2010-06-08T11:21:00.004-06:00

The stork is dressed up again in her best pearls with soy latte in hand to deliver another lovely baby boy or girl! This invite is for a lovely, fun bunch of sophisticated city girls... who are getting together in the heart of Chicago to celebrate the pending arrival. The Mother-to-be has 2 "babies" that are also featured on the card with glitter collars- how cute!
Have fun ladies!

sweet 16

2010-06-04T20:56:00.004-06:00

My lovely daughter turned 16 this week. She had a really fun idea. Dinner and mini-golf in heels and formals. Her friends happily played along. My daughter has a major crush on all things JUICY COUTURE, so we created this cute invite- based on a JUICY perfume box she has in her bedroom. Can't wait to see the photos!

see you in portland!

2010-06-03T12:37:00.002-06:00

One of my really great friends embarked on a new adventure by moving to Portland- with her 3 kitties. I will miss her! She is the only nice road cyclist I have ever met...lol
I know she will do just fabby in the city of roses...
These are her change of address cards. Miss you Caryl!

cash n' carry

2010-05-21T20:31:00.012-06:00

My favorite and best client ever came up with a clever idea! With graduation upon us (my own son included) my Mom :) has been inundated with a plethora of announcements. Trying to create a new and fun way to give graduates their favorite gift of cash, she folded a $20 and a $10 bill together to form 2010! It was such a great idea! My task was to create a money holder for her idea! Just jot your own message of congratulations inside. Purchase yours here-it's the last card on the page.! And no, it doesn't come complete with the cash...

lovely like yellowstone!

2010-05-19T07:01:00.000-06:00

Brides are awesome- they truly are! Todays bride isn't stomping her feet about the perfect shade of pink. She is a confident professional woman who knows almost exactly the feeling that she wants you to deliver- but allows you tons of leeway on the concept. This invite begins with a save the date that is an obvious nod to a famous vintage Yellowstone Park poster. The invitation suite included the signature bleu dahlia rsvp... a perforated enclosure - your guest keeps the top which includes details and directions to the ceremony- and any other events surrounding the special day. The bottom is the rsvp postcard- so easy and beautiful!.

special delivery

2010-05-17T08:11:00.004-06:00

Some of my favorite invitations have been done for a great group of women who live in Jackson, WY. They love the bold, fun, bleu dahlia style. I hope I delivered just the right feeling with this fabulous glittery bejeweled baby shower invite! I love the envelope- long gone is the three or four lined boring address! At bleu dahlia, we believe in creating excitement for your guest the minute she opens her mail box!

that's a wrap!

2010-03-19T13:03:00.008-06:00

I am re-creating a series of graphics I designed for my good friend Gala at Rocket's Gourmet Wraps & Sodas. It has been so much fun looking at work I have done in the past (I think it's been at least 5 years) and still liking it. Yea, yea- I had to "zhoosz" it a little... but for the most part it has held up pretty well! Love the 50s clip art- what a great resource that is... enjoy!

Use what you have!

2010-02-06T10:41:00.007-07:00

bleu dahlia creative just finished designing this site for an interior designer who really loves to use what you have in new and innovative ways. She creates usable zones in your home to get you organized and stay that way. Maybe you just want help picking a paint color- or maybe you just don't know where to start. Sandra at Casa Fresca sees things in a fresh new way. We decided to use what she already had- a fabulous square brochure and simple, effective business card. And that is exactly what her website is.

get 'em while they're hot... or sweet!

2010-02-05T18:30:00.002-07:00

WOW- Time is truly flying and it's almost Valentine's Day- Have you had a chance to view the fabulous Valentine's at our website! Order now and we'll send you a free set of wine tags!
Just mention the word tana-rama in your order notes and we'll pick out the cutest ones we have and send you a set of 5. Our choice of course...
Hope everyone is having a fabulous winter and is looking forward to spring-
We are dilligently working on our new spring stationery collection which promises to to be crisp- bold and preppy!

the holidays are here!

2009-11-30T10:52:00.006-07:00

WOW! it's been busy at bleu dahlia creative! Be sure to take a look at the new items at the updated website. http://www.bleudahlia.com/ The wine tags and greeting cards are online- as well as bleu dahlia classics, the personalized styles that made us famous. Free shipping on all greeting cards and tags, don't miss out! And check us out on facebook

2009-10-23T10:54:00.004-06:00

Another beautiful card. The salon is Evolve. The butterfly was not my first instinct as part of a logo for a salon. It kept flying around in my head until Ihad to try it. The colors are wonderful- the girls at evolve chose the raspberry color. I love it when your clients bring so much to the table. Make the work happen naturally. The signage looks amazing. drive by 1901 Broadwater.

eat this

2009-10-21T11:12:00.005-06:00

Fun "his and her" card I did for Garlini's in Wenatchee- one side conservative one side a bit more bold!

a healing place

2009-10-20T12:31:00.005-06:00

Sheila is a massage therapist who wanted an update to her card. Her business is thriving, but knew she had outgrown the dated look of her original card. We used a low profile flowing script for her logo, The mandala traditionally represents the unconscious self- and is often used to symbolize a sacred space. It's also just really pretty.

do you love jewelry?

2009-10-19T10:45:00.005-06:00

This week is "business week"at bleu dahlia. I am going to feature business cards I have created. Today I am posting Jessie's card. She is a Lia Sophia rep and we needed to create a

fun call to action for her potential clients. so we ask the question...

"Do you love jewelry"?

photobliss

2009-10-16T08:15:00.002-06:00

I have a really talented client named Kari Jones (she's as nice as she is talented)... She takes pictures of beautiful things and sells them on cards, canvas and more! We just finished a business I.D. project for her and this is the result. Visit her booth at the Junior League Market Place Magic. November 6,7 and 8. Her website is coming soon!

library foundation fund raiser

2009-10-15T11:18:00.003-06:00

Thank you Library Foundation for asking me to be part of your fund raiser this year!For more information visit the Parmly Billings Library website. My book is a collection of local stories and famous quotes about or by Julia Child. Interested in bidding?
The 2009 ILLUSTRATE A STORY event will take place on Thursday, November 5th, at the College of Technology Health Sciences Building, 3803 Central Ave. Time: 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Ticket price: $45 which includes light fare, desserts, and wine. There will be two auctions: a live auction of the one of a kind books and a silent auction of specially designed items and rare books.

and the invitation wore gray flannel

2009-10-14T11:17:00.006-06:00

I had the pleasure of designing for a bride this week. Lovely ideas...what will she choose?
Love the gray flannel feel of this (style on the left) paper combined with canary yellow- seems quite fresh and very smart. Have you looked at bleu dahlia wedding ideas?

print on demand..FABRIC?

2009-10-13T10:36:00.005-06:00

Came across this amazing site- had no idea you could do this.

Don't you want to design your own fabric? Have you heard of spoonflower?

Print on demand- no minimums? Surprised the samples aren't ... well... more personal?

very smart indeed

2009-06-25T08:22:00.000-06:00

You've seen the

"more is more"

side of bleu dahlia

creative, but we can

bring a simple elegant

design to your

personalized stationery

as well. Very smart indeed.

green green is so serene...

2009-06-24T08:19:00.002-06:00

What a great design job, baby shower invitations for a little boy on the way.

Love the green with the taupe, really

clean and fresh.

big bucket-o-roses

2009-06-22T23:58:00.004-06:00

I play pretend florist to those I love- these were for my mother-in-law for her 65th birthday party last weekend. The opened just right for her special day.

2009-06-05T07:36:00.000-06:00

Lots of really fantastic things in my inbox this week, but this is the material thing I long for right now. A newly issued item from Bauer- the round butter dish. Can't you just feel the weight, the smoothness and the lovely rings?
Now, which color do I want?

a little dose of color on a sunless day

2009-06-04T07:43:00.007-06:00

It's been less than sunny here in big sky country. I have found myself daydreaming about warmer days which leads me to memories of San Diego late last year. Yesterday I ventured outside to take a photo of some planted pretties and when I looked at this picture, I immediately thought of the hibiscus bushes in my photos from San Diego. Don't you think they look related? I read that petunias originated in central and south america and the only color they are not available in is orange. I love petunias- a perfect dose of color on a sunless day.

bleu dahlia personalized stationery

2009-06-03T07:55:00.001-06:00

More lovely notecards that will be going to volunteers at my neighborhood elementary school. Nice of the teachers to treat them, don't you think? These styles will be available soon at bleu dahlia.

scenic montana

2009-06-02T08:00:00.001-06:00

More fun at bleu dahlia! My clients are moving and requested a happy announcement to let all their friends and family know where to find them. They are inspired by vintage signs, coca-cola red and shabby chic. This postcard will bring its message to each mailbox in a clear envelope to protect the red glitter heart marking the location of their new home on a map of Montana.
Cost- $60 design fee, $3 each card

signature item

2009-06-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

Personalized stationery is really a great gift- perfect for teachers! This time of the year is busy at bleu dahlia, creating lots and lots of brightly colored florals, stripes and geometrics that are lucky enough to end up in the hands of very special teachers. At the affordable retail price of $23 for a box of 8 cards- it's perfect for your budget, and really- does the teacher want another apple? {If so- I have some really cute apple stationery}. Limited but super stylish collections are available online, if you have something else in mind, simply e-mail me and I'll fill your gift giving needs before the last day of school and with free delivery in the Billings area!

preppy birthday table

2009-05-31T08:21:00.001-06:00

Saturday morning we celebrated the beginning of birthday week for my daughter. Birthday week begins with big breakfast at our house. I pulled out the LuRay Pastels, Fiesta and McCoy to create a preppy color story for the morning. started collecting the LuRay about a million years ago. I mixed the pink plates with my green fiesta plates. I'm not a fiesta collector, the products just makes sense with a family. It's so sturdy and the colors are fantastic. Forgive me for not knowing the name of this green- I'm thinking chartreuse? Anybody out there know for sure? My son gave each placesetting a hat made out of an IKEA green napkin. The coffee cups and bowls are mid-century McCoy, and I do love them. Mixing and matching is a good thing.

birthday girl airlines!

2009-05-30T12:04:00.007-06:00

This is really fun. Inspired by a "ticket jacket" given to me from my friends in Seattle. The jacket arrived in the mail and was filled with my birthday itinerary of fun in Seattle and of course gift cards for coffee on the way.

This derivative is a birthday card that sets the mood for a surprise trip to Vegas for a 65th birthday, staying at Paris Las Vegas Casino. A super special trip between sisters!
Remember when you actually had to have a ticket when you traveled?
This ticket is for a flight on Birthday Girl Airlines, the actual travel itinerary is tucked behind.
I'm sure there will be plenty of champagne and good times.

day to evening challenge

2009-05-29T19:17:00.004-06:00

My client requested an invitation for her sister. It needed to be two things in one, an invitation to the bridal shower and an invitation to the bachelorette party, both on the same day. Needed to be fun and promise of the good times to come, but Gramma was also going to see it, so it couldn't be to...too- if you know what I mean. Came out well I think...
Cost: $60 design fee, $10 each.

the approach

2009-04-22T09:55:00.001-06:00

It's all in the approach- this is true for so many things. From the perfect hit in volleyball (yes I am mid season with AAU volleyball with my daughter :)) to concepting the perfect event. I was watching Martha and she featured this talented man on her show Tuesday. Unexpected approaches create such effortless, gorgeous arrangements and more. See for yourself...
photos courtesy of artfool.com

american modern by russel wright

2009-04-20T13:17:00.002-06:00

One of my first blog entries was about American pottery and my
fascination with it. I've been a collector for over 10 years now, and some of my favorite pieces are from the Bauer company.

Bauer is back, and as beautiful as ever- That news has been around for awhile, but this is new and exciting... the release of the American Modern line,

The initial line consists of fourteen of the original most popular and useful pieces including dishes, bowls, serving platters, serving bowls, tea set and a unique new coffee mug, all in bold mix-and-match colors carefully chosen by Russel Wright for their food presentation drama and bold modern flair.

Chartreuse, coral, sea foam, granite and white have been carefully matched to original colors enabling the durable new Bauer American Modern to be paired with original, rarer pieces for perfect staging and practicality in any modern setting.

If you are feeling the pinch of the economy, an affordable way to start your Bauer collection is to order from their "seconds sale."It happens a couple of times a year, sign up for their e-list and you won't miss it. I have ordered and and have found them to be completely wonderful- usually just a little glaze pop somewhere or small glaze slip. Or you can also browse your local thrift store for a "hiding treasure" I just found an adorable Bauer tea light last week in a charming pink speckle- scored it for $1.50.
Here's to the new Bauer, mix it up and mix it in with your vintage collection.
photos courtesy of bauer.com

I'm beamin' about erickson beaman

2009-03-11T14:59:00.007-06:00

Don't you just love being "stopped in your tracks?" I was on my weekly trek through Target- not the evening type, where you have all kinds of leisure time, it was more of a "get the necessities and get out type." Well, Erickson Beaman wanted my full attention- and they got it. WOW! Totally red-carpet worthy, this collection is a stunner. I actually took photos with my phone, I don't usually do that inside a retail store as it is frowned upon- I thought I had learned my lesson while shopping at Galeries Lafayette in Paris, where a concerned Parisian salesclerk chased me out of her department while shaking her finger and bursting with the words "no photo!- no photo!" Enjoy a few highlights here (courtesy of Target's website) and be sure to learn more about the designers here. enjoy!
photos courtesy of target.com

follow the yellow brick road

2009-03-04T20:10:00.001-07:00

Lucky me- to have such great friends in Seattle. I just got back from the emerald city, and must tell all about the highlights of my trip. The goal of this trip was to see things I haven't seen before.

1) Dining at "how to cook a wolf", a delightfully innovative restaurant on Queen Anne. All menu items are meant to be shared- and they arrive in sequence, so you dine on one dish at a time with your friends. My favorite was the golden beet salad with pistachios- I'm going to try to replicate it with the help of my friend John, who is masterful in the kitchen.

2) The view from Queen Anne- at Kerry Park

3) shopping at Whole Foods Market- My first visit, and coming from a city with only Walmart, Albertsons and Costco- it truly was an experience. Mostly loved the stories of how the food comes to the table. Best of all was the home cooked meal John made- featuring a gorgeous piece of halibut with a light panko pine nut crust- best fish I've ever had. Thanks John!

4) Of course the current Chihuly at Museum of Glass in Tacoma. A sizable piece from a private collection, this splendid golden-green tangle just glows, evoking a Muranese lagoon.

5) Fabulous conversation with my friends Vickie and David while dining on a late breakfast at Lola. Good times I tell ya! Love you and miss you all...

a dose of color is inspiring

2009-02-19T10:15:00.008-07:00

My daughter needed fabric for her textiles class project, so we went to Fiberworks- a quilting store here in Billings. On approach the store (and website) appear as boring, traditional and uninspired. Before you tell me "those are fightin' words", let me finish. I was so pleasantly surprised to see what the store was hiding inside. Gorgeous bolts of color and pattern, modern, sophisticated and totally inspired- punctuated by adorable project kits sprinkled throughout the store. It prompted me to do a quilting fabric google search and landed upon this cute blog. I don't have a lot of facts about the author (but this isn't really investigative journalism I'm doing here now is it?) Melissa Averinos does design her own fabric, the photo is of her collection. It truly is a daily dose of color!

color fashion show week: bleu

2009-02-12T11:08:00.003-07:00

color fashion show week: orange

2009-02-11T19:48:00.003-07:00

color fashion show week: pink

2009-02-10T15:01:00.004-07:00

fashion = color = inspiration

2009-02-09T10:01:00.045-07:00

Is it excessive or necessary during these times to see luxurious ideas and endless beauty? Many designers are facing hardships that are stalling or even stopping the consistently mind-blowing flood of ideas. I couldn't imagine a world without it...pre-season after pre-season, we are inundated with an innovative rainbow of adornment! One thing I know for sure is that I have often times gone to that pool of luxury for inspiration. Be it a new stationery collection, wedding invitation or even business I.D. This week begins my virtual spring fashion show, each day featuring not a complete look, but highlighting a fabulous color...let it inspire me to create a new collection for you!

Featured above, a (toungue-in-cheek) thank you card to my best friend for a fabulous Marc Jacobs handbag gifted to me.

textciting at house

2009-02-04T09:00:00.017-07:00

my favorite typefaces are built at house industries- it's pure genius,innovation and creativity as you look through their portfolio and website. Always releasing a lifestyle icon with each typeface, the graphic design industry eagerly awaits new releases. Today our lucky day! Take a looky loo...

fashion week finds new home? that's exciting!

2009-02-03T10:15:00.021-07:00

Over at THE CUT, they are discussing the big move and why it makes sense...

"Mayor Bloomberg has been working with the CFDA and IMG Fashion for two years to find Fashion Week a new home, and it looks like they finally have. A source close to the situation tells the AP that Fashion Week will move to Lincoln Center starting in September 2010. The deal is expected to be announced tomorrow. Since 1993, Fashion Week has been held in Bryant Park, where erecting the tents takes ten days and taking them down takes five. Bloomberg has been saying that the tents have long outgrown the park. In September 2010, the shows will take place at Lincoln Center's Damrosch Park, located at the southwest corner of the Lincoln Center plaza, at 62nd Street between Columbus and Amsterdam Avenues. So the shows will still take place in tents, which we can't imagine not having, and in a centrally located park, but one with a much cooler name. Imagine: "I have to get to Damrosch for Carolina!" We like it. And the opera's right next door! We think Fashion Week just got classier. UPDATE: The mayor's office has just confirmed in an official statement that Fashion Week will move to Damrosch Park in September 2010. The park allows 87,000 square feet for shows, while Bryant Park only allowed 70,000 — roughly a 25 percent increase. Fashion Week is locked into the space for five years. CFDA president Diane von Furstenberg has already expressed her excitement. " -TAKEN FROM THE CUT

Cinderella dressed in yella......

2009-01-30T19:23:00.005-07:00

Each year Pantone selects a color of the year- This year it happens to be Mimosa. A georgeous bright yellow! Mimosa is now one of my favorite colors and it's also the name of a cocktail you can order before noon without scandalous looks from the table next to you!

When I was growing up my parents let my sister and I select the colors for our bedroom, I was in the 5th grade- and we agreed on bright yellow walls, lime green trim and bright orange plush carpet. Bright colors have always been at the top of my box of favorite colors- thanks mom and dad for the creative license!

Are you a color freak that follows along? or an inquiring mind who wants to know who the past winners of this award are...

2000 15-4020 Cerulean BlueChosen for the millennium for its calming zen state of mind.
2001 17-2031 Fuchsia RoseA reversal from the previous year, more exciting, more feminine and sexy.
2002 19-1664 True RedRecognizes the impact of 9/11 with a patriotic hue.
2003 14-4811 Aqua SkyA cool blue meant to restore hope and serenity.
2004 17-1456 Tiger LilyAcknowledges the hipness of orange, with a touch of exoticism.
2005 15-5217 Blue TurquoiseAnother reversal to a calming shade.
2006 13-1106 Sand DollarA neutral color that expresses concern about the economy.
2007 19-1557 Chili PepperChosen for its pizazz and sophistication and its hint of ethnic taste.
2008 18-3943 Blue IrisA mix of blue and purple that suggests dependability and magic.

(source: fontfeed.com)

NA na NA na NA na NA na...BATGIRL!!!

2009-01-29T17:33:00.006-07:00

Here is something that excites me... Batgirl! As a kid I wasn't a superhero comics kid- I liked Betty and Veronica or Richie Rich. My husband is embarassed for me because I don't know what a bat-a-rang is... a bat-a-what? I've become aquainted with Batgirl doing research for this cute invitation. She really kicks a#*! Way better than Betty and catty Veronica! The little girl who is getting this invite is so cool, she wanted the"real BatGirl colors please" of purple and gold. So mothers across the US, ban your Barbies and give your daughter or son a BatGirl action figure!!!

nice package

2009-01-28T22:45:00.074-07:00

One of the reasons I would love to open a retail shop is because I love great packaging (For some reason, my husband doesn't think that's reason enough...). The photo is of my sisters birthday presents- the glitter tag is reincarnated for special birthdays!

Even back in my retail days, I loved folding someone's purchase and wrapping it in tissue first before placing it in a bag. Today when I shop with my daughter at our local mall, I want to just grab her purchase and fold it before it carelessly gets stuffed into a bag. My first experience being wowed by the way my purchase looked was in Paris in 1988. I was seriously in a trance as my purchase was wrapped with care, then placed in a unique bag or box, then tied with real silk ribbon. And it wasn't just at the big name stores- little boutiques excelled in packaging as well- just part of the Parisian retail culture- ohh la la!

There are retailers out there that get it, packaging is reborn at places like the JUICY boutique, where the bag and box just knocks you out. The JUICY box {from my friend David} that was under our Christmas tree had my daughter in a total spaz the entire month of December. She even hung it on her wall like a piece of art, now that's great packaging!
Does great packaging excite you? Do you have a "signature" gift wrap? Let us know!

I resolve to....

2009-01-24T11:44:00.007-07:00

...find more things that excite, motivate and inspire me...and you! This resolution list is from a fantastic website-http://www.presentandcorrect.com/. I find it to be out of the ordinary as it alludes to you having more fun this year! Isn't that all that really matters? Fun leads to inspiration which leads to ideas which lead to great projects which leads to productivity- that's my flow chart this year. Remember what's important to you as you make your daily to do list. Yeah, personalized to do lists will

be available soon at bleu dahlia!

good night!

2009-01-16T10:16:00.001-07:00

Excite me #1

A good night sleep, is paramount for handling your day. A great mattress is a must to start out your best year ever. That's what I'm calling 2009, and to handle all the fun and excitement of the best year ever, I'm need to count on great linens- and a premier mattress for a super night's sleep.

So invest in a great bed- call it part of your exciting new

lifestyle and your best year ever.

ode to holiday

2009-01-12T13:24:00.007-07:00

Loved my Christmas decor so much, I truly don't want to take it down, but my friends are now making fun of me- so I will remove it tonight. Here is an ode to some of my favorite sparklies! Get ready for a new tana-rama series called "excite me" looking for motivation or just something different? Tune in...

december is for celebrating

2008-12-23T11:04:00.000-07:00

Celebrating is exactly what December is for! not just for the holidays, but for birthdays too. This is a cute invite I did for a lucky girl in Wyoming. her mom goes over the top to make sure her birthday doesn't get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season.

and we are back on, in 3...2...1...

2008-12-08T10:12:00.004-07:00

so the website was a little glitchy- now all is fixed- thanks to a really nice client who let me know. All is fixed now- and we are running a special!

Free pack of wine gift tags (of our choice) with any bleu dahlia.com order! No need to enter any special code, we'll simply include them in all orders until December 23rd. Don't forget free delivery in the Billings area!

There's still time to place your order- now get shopping!
p.s. have you seen our personalized notepads? so cute!

if i were in seattle this weekend...

2008-12-04T11:04:00.001-07:00

Daily Candy tells me this show is going to be a the ultimate craft show. More than 100 indie designers will be there to peddle their artful knacks along with a DIY wrapping station to help make your gifts imaginative and green. For more info checkout the website. A DIY wrapping station? That's a great idea I hope a lot of craft shows implement. I'd love to see this one.

cutest brightest deliveries!

2008-12-02T13:30:00.001-07:00

Cute styles ready for delivery- love the matching notepads! All the dogs were custom ordered aren't they adorable? Still time for Holiday delivery! Call or order online now!

more mini art pieces

2008-12-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

It's a hit! These little sparkly "canvas of wisdom pieces" are super likeable. Here is my next round. Some repeats of sellouts, some new, some just updated. All really sparkly and happy. I really want to do one with a photo, maybe this weekend.

get 'em while they glitter!

2008-11-30T12:10:00.001-07:00

First of all, thanks to my friends at Pritz Sisters for the "over the top" shout-out. I must say that working with someone who knew her product and her company culture so well was definitely the winning formula for her fabulous ID. She is a dream client! Thanks Chick for featuring my "ready to go" gift tags I created for my holiday show. {which was so much fun- can't wait to do it again} I have those tags available on my site now- so get 'em while they glitter!!!
Want something personalized? Contact me and let's get going...quick!

almost ready

2008-11-21T14:03:00.000-07:00

glittery gifting!

2008-11-20T08:00:00.001-07:00

I have been busy making these great holiday tags! Love the wine bottle hanger- make that bottle of wine the perfect hostess gift with a lovely bleu dahlia glitter tag! Back to work-

straight outta brooklyn, nyc! coach sara is here!

2008-11-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

out and about for holiday!

2008-11-18T00:48:00.000-07:00

super chic is super finished!

2008-11-17T16:41:00.001-07:00

Finally finished the super chic collection, purchasing buttons are being added as I type! Also excited to be on location at the Holiday Bazaar at St.Patricks church this weekend, don't miss your chance to order personalized notecards, notepads, calling card and gift tags! Saturday November 22, 9-4 and Sunday the 23, 9-1:30.

the perfect gift

2008-11-11T11:09:00.006-07:00

Always taking custom orders on all personalized paper goods.
Want to re-order a design that is no longer featured on our website?
Send us a quick e-mail. As always, free delivery in the Billings area.
New styles added at whim so check back often!

inside a black apple

2008-11-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Have you seen these? Crafter Emily Martin, the top seller on the website etsy.com, a Brooklyn, New York-based online marketplace for all things handmade, puts out incredible dolls, kits and original art featuring these lovely slightly gothic girls and boys. She was on Queen Martha's show, and left a pattern for her dolls, downloadable here. She kind of makes you think you could do more...

BYpARTISAN pottery

2008-11-04T09:56:00.002-07:00

Happy Election Day! Couldn't resist these happy guys over at Jonathan Adler aren't they just j'adorable? Get out and vote!

tiffany & co is timeless

2008-10-28T07:29:00.003-06:00

what a great find-
my father-in-law has a knack for finding all things great when going to estate sales and garage sales. He found this fabulous vintage Tiffany clock in the shape of a diamond last weekend. Oh I would love to have this on my bedside table or my desk, but alas he has asked me to put it on the bay for him. Hope it brings in the dough!

gary vaynerchuck is a huge dose of happy

2008-10-24T11:28:00.000-06:00

What makes you happier than witnessing a person who has pure passion and love for his job? I think at that point it becomes a vocation. I'm way behind on this obviously, as this video blogger has a mega fan club, but I accidently "met" this gary vaynerchuck video via my subscription to k vintners email list. Just take a view and you'll know why I can't quit watching him.

relaxing...beautifully...

2008-10-21T13:56:00.000-06:00

wish i may, wish i might... have a kate spade store in sight!

2008-10-17T19:03:00.001-06:00

find a store near you!!!
The chair fashion show continues soon... couldn't resist posting this announcement.

blue velvet lovelies!

2008-10-17T16:14:00.000-06:00

brown velvet-oh my!

2008-10-16T09:00:00.001-06:00

OOOH la la...la la la la la la!

2008-10-15T15:45:00.001-06:00

Ooooh- these make me weak in the knees, green velvet... carved Italian Rococo side chairs and more
at 1st dibs. These little lovelies mark the beginning of my mid week chair fashion show...enjoy!

pop the cork!

2008-10-13T08:13:00.001-06:00

Sparkly, pop the cork thank yous for my 20th wedding anniversary party thank you's!

won't quit snowing....

2008-10-12T11:56:00.000-06:00

fast forward past fall...

2008-10-11T14:56:00.001-06:00

Can you believe this? Yes I have a fallen tree across my driveway and backyard- this is the craziest, heaviest snow I have ever witnessed! And right in the middle of the most beautiful, warm fall. Flowers were still in full bloom, and the leaves had just started to change.

Supposed to be 60 by the middle of the week....welcome to Montana!

new day, new baby!

2008-10-10T15:13:00.003-06:00

Don't you love Little Golden Books? Then you'll love this Little Golden Invitation- kind of an upgrade to the book, I mean with the glitter and all... Enjoy your weekend! Here in Big Sky Country we have snow....

your leisure time

2008-10-01T08:00:00.002-06:00

Make someone happy today. Use your leisure time {that's what I'm calling my "minute breaks in the day"- try it, it's so luxurious}to send a note to your girlfriend- I designed this retro printed envelope for a client who doesn't mind sharing...me! I pulled my I.D. off and now you can use the design for your own personal correspondance. Print, cut it out, score and fold, stamp and address!
not for professional use. copyright bleu dahlia creative 2008

oh baby...

2008-09-30T09:46:00.001-06:00

What a delight it is to design baby shower invitations. The swarovski crystal is just the "icing on the cake" with this cute little baby swinging in a tree. This week I get to design another one, with a similiar color palette- seems little girls like my favorite color {for today} pms 390. I'll post it when it's finished, this one will be glitter-y!

do the dishes

2008-09-27T08:34:00.004-06:00

In the constant search for color and happy, these stopped me in my tracks. Tikoli™ was founded with the goal of abolishing dowdiness in the kitchen. Tired of dull or cutesy kitchen linens and longing for something fresh and modern for everyday living, they decided to make their own.

Tikoli is located in California's San Francisco Bay Area, widely known as a crossroads of cultures and epicurean epicenter. Tikoli's eclectic, modern designs reflect both the relaxed California lifestyle and the freshness and innovation of California cuisine.

Check out the owner's blog, refreshing, interesting and just plain pretty to look at.

random Italian thoughts...

2008-09-25T08:26:00.000-06:00

My friends are having an Italian dinner party (sob, sob- wish I could go), my sister owns an Italian restaurant currently undergoing a menu redesign (courtesy of bleu dahlia creative), which randomly leads to Dale Chihuly...why you might ask?

Because in 1968, Chihuly was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship to work at the Venini factory in Venice, Italy. While in Venice, Chihuly observed the team approach to blowing glass, which is critical to the way he works today. In 1971, Chihuly cofounded Pilchuck Glass School in Washington. With this international glass center, Chihuly has led the avant-garde in the development of glass as a fine art.

If you haven't seen a Chihuly exhibit, get your calendar out now and do some planning. It can be found in a plethora of places, lots of them open public spaces, such as the Atlantis Resort in the Bahamas, Bellagio in Vegas,Union Station in Tacoma, and the not to be missed 500 foot span of brilliance, The Chihuly Bridge of Glass. The lucky residents of the Puget Sound area have more than 20 public spaces to appreciate the breadth and scope of the artist’s creative vision. On with my random fall day...

your favorite color by number

2008-09-24T07:30:00.004-06:00

In 1963, Lawrence Herbert, Pantone's founder, created an innovative system of identifying, matching and communicating colors to solve the problems associated with producing accurate color matches in the graphic arts community. His insight that the spectrum is seen and interpreted differently by each individual led to the innovation of the PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM®, a book of standardized color in fan format.

Over the last 45 years, Pantone has expanded its color matching system concept to other color-critical industries, including digital technology, textiles, plastics, architecture and contract interiors, and paint. It continues to develop color communication tools for a variety of industries and aggressively adopts new digital technology to address the color needs of design and production professionals.

Doing a little research I discovered that Pantone
originally manufactured color cards for cosmetics companies.
Consider me last on the list of people who have posted this, Pantone's spring color forecast...

a little fall

2008-09-23T12:14:00.004-06:00

I sincerely mean a "little fall". Fall is usually short but sweet here in big sky country. This is one of the most beautiful autumns that I can remember. I am inspired by the sheer randomness of it. One leaf completely changed, the leaf next to it looks fresh as an early June day. I have a hard time with randomness when designing. Usually a background or a floral notecard beckons for a little random layout of pattern- but now I've just said pattern, then it has to make sense- then, well I don't want it to be a mess... is random really ever random?

a little slogan fun

2008-09-22T00:17:00.005-06:00

Just for fun, visit the sloganizer. Most of my friends are familiar with this amusing little web tool- if you haven't played with it yet, put your blog name, business or your own name in the text field and submit, you will be entertained!

a little art show

2008-09-19T16:48:00.010-06:00

Where have I been? Creating these attractive mixed media mini art pieces. I was invited to show in Toucan Galleries "little art show". A whole bunch of art by a whole bunch of artists- The show runs all of October and November...don't miss it! Do the roses look familiar? That bouquet was definitely the gift that keeps giving! Do the roses look familiar?

opposites attract

2008-09-10T20:58:00.006-06:00

historical hotel del in all its grandness and glamour contradicts this mid century treasure sitting directly across the street. Had to come back at night to get a picture of this fantastic neon.

more contrasts to come...

cali dreamin'

2008-09-09T10:04:00.001-06:00

Do people really live here? Lucky!
Loved the cali lifestyle, history and views. Will post more this week.

it's beautiful in SanDiego

2008-09-04T08:03:00.005-06:00

Taking a trip... see ya next week!

rainy days and mondays....

2008-09-02T21:17:00.004-06:00

yeah, yeah, I Know! The bleu dahlia update is supposed to happen this week.Unfortunately, the weather hasn't been cooperating- What? you say the weather is the problem?
I take all my stationery and portfolio photos outdoors, as I am sans sophisticated lighting in my studio, natural daylight lets you know you are ordering a white note card instead of blue, cream or pink. Well, overcast and rainy... we are in a delay. I am posting some small samples of my new collection, called"naturally"... enjoy!

bat your lashes...

2008-09-02T08:01:00.005-06:00

It was a very
special bride
who let me use
this fantastic pink
eyelash yarn to
wrap her invitation.
The layers of yarn
Sit just above
the bride and
grooms name in
pms 219 c
{A lovely shade of
bright pink}
and actually wrapped
through a single
perfect hole punched
through the fold
(each one of 250) to
hold the reply set
in place. Now, back
to that web update....

roses are red, dahlias are bleu...

2008-08-29T11:56:00.005-06:00

Back to school doesn't usually equate to red roses- but this lovely surprise eagerly begged for a glamour shot. I quickly sketched out a dozen to be sent through the mail on the front of a bleu dahlia note card. Enjoy your weekend!

thanks for the memories

2008-08-28T10:47:00.003-06:00

It's been awhile since I've been to Seattle to visit my very best friend, but the memories remain. While updating my website {soon to be published} I ran across this thank you, it's what I call a limited edition, where I hand draw little icons of the best of our visit, obviously here it was the conversation, cocktails, fabulous gourmet home cooked meals and heading out to explore the city. Hope to have an option like this available to order at my website soon!

tiffany bleu

2008-08-27T09:47:00.003-06:00

Another beautiful wedding this summer. What I delight to reconnect with a friend who happens to have a daughter who is getting married {even though neither one of us has aged a day*wink-wink*}. It was elegant and contemporary and just flat out gorgeous. Hopefully she received lots of "blue boxes" when opening her gifts...

a lush pad is a happy pad

2008-08-26T07:34:00.012-06:00

Daily Candy truly delivered something sweet this morning, visit Lush Pad, an edited version of eBay or C-list, featuring all things that midcentury obsessives wake up for. The categories are a little light in inventory right now, but there's lots of info to keep you company until the goods roll in.

If your pulse quickens at the site of Barcelona chairs, Eames tables and Danish modern credenzas, visit Melanie Carlson's new love child, waiting to meet you now.... get over your
"end of summer blues"- visit L ush Pad today!

I feel a little sick because this sofa looks like one my friend and I thrifted when we were too young and uneducated to know better, we painted it black- it was the 80's!
*the crowd cringes and shudders at the thought*...

ode to summer

2008-08-25T20:03:00.009-06:00

School starts tomorrow, and with it brings thoughts of the end of summer. I present my favorite wedding invitation ever- a total ode to summer, this gorgeous celebration was on June 21st, the first official day of {just about} everyone's favorite season. The best part of my wedding invitation ritual is boxing them up in a fabulous fabric covered carrier, and hand tying a bouquet for the bride.

koo koo 4 coco

2008-08-22T09:39:00.006-06:00

A little Chanel makes you a lot happy. Lifetime presents the rags to riches story of Coco Chanel. Shirley Maclaine plays the legend in her later years and the previews have been hypnotizing. My daughter and I will be firmly planted in front of our TV while wearing my favorite Chanel accessories watching history come to life. The icing on the cake? Chanel's Karl Lagerfeld has given his blessing to the miniseries; the famed design house is even working closely with the production to get things right.
The two part miniseries begins Sept 13- *fingers crossed hoping it delivers*

glitter for two

2008-08-21T13:56:00.008-06:00

It's a party for two! I had the opportunity to design a childrens party invitation this summer for these darlings who turned 1. So fun- with great custom details all the invitees were thrilled to see. Of course I had to say yes to the glitter! Which resulted in me delivering the invites to my clients who were probably thinking, "at her age, she should wear less glitter!" I am updating my website to include more party invites (complete with glitter) I did this summer, should be done soon!

sea goddess

2008-08-20T11:33:00.010-06:00

Today is hot, really hot. Not as hot as this babe-
Makes you wish your swimsuit was designed from a man's point of view...???

This ad is from a great vintage magazine I found at the antique shop.
Take some time out to enjoy the beautiful weather, it will be gone soon!

sweet as it seems?

2008-08-19T11:23:00.017-06:00

Designed for the Crocodile Cafe in Seattle by Modern Dog. Not saccharin sweet, just pure goodness that is so natural. Maybe not what it seems to be...

I quote from Modern Dog: 20 Years of Poster Art
"On the surface, Rosie's music is sweet and girly. When you read her lyrics, you realize she has an edge -
just like this fat, innocent bird who happens to be
standing on the edge...of a sawed off branch."
-Mike Strassburger & Robynne Raye

genius, pure and simple.

trust your swing

2008-08-18T12:16:00.008-06:00

Starting a new project- be it for a client or your own craft urges can almost be too much if you don't have "rails". Take this swatch book for instance, where do you start choosing a color? Most people think creatives do better when you let them have free reign- well maybe some do, but I like to have some sort of parameter, that way my thoughts can go flipping nuts inside a set of cans and cant's- and I end up with something my client can understand and use appropriately. This is one of the reasons I love re-design and re-purposing,
you can see where something has been.

I'm not a golfer, but have this "swing" sign in my office- usually your instincts are right on- don't over think, trust your swing!

Here's a fun website that will give you a spark when starting a new project...
visit color blender

queen of buttons

2008-08-15T09:47:00.011-06:00

I can almost see this big pink button on a Jackie O style yellow wool coat, just one button at the top. My daughter started sewing again this summer and brought out a tin of buttons and sewing notions she inherited from her Great Gramma who passed away this spring. The sequins were in an old spice jar with a Tiffany blue lid, perfect contrast with the bright copper vintage goodies inside. The entire color story is so Marie Antoinette {2006 /Coppola} which, if you haven't seen needs to be rotated into your list of movies to watch. So take the challenge, look around your house this weekend, sometimes the things that spark inspiration are right under your nose...

pixie magic

2008-08-14T11:22:00.004-06:00

So thrifting I went- No pottery in this town worth purchasing, plus the big question of where will it go? -I set my sights on something smaller and started to notice a recurring Pixie theme, I now have a new collection of strange little ...well "elf" like little dudes. Kind of a hint to start thinking about the Holidays! I really like the expressions on their faces- and pointed hands and feet. Not sure what the lady bug like creature is, almost a wee bit creepy though.

little things that spark

2008-08-13T13:03:00.016-06:00

Most days I come across something that "makes" my day-{usually while putting my work on hold and perusing the web or a great magazine or an e-mail forward from a friend}. Mostly it's little things that inspire bigger things later.

As a designer { maybe more of a re-purposer, because I still haven't reinvented the wheel}, I have a box of inspiration- things that maybe, just maybe, will make sense or spark something when the time is right. This blog is just that- An online box of happiness, madness, color and whatever. Check back often - and comments are welcome.

Is anyone out there still thrifting? I was speaking to my friend and client Chick Meek (fabulous handbags and great website) in Minneapolis the other day and we were chatting about thrifting and collecting. We both started collecting vintage pottery- mostly McCoy and Bauer because of the influence and good taste of our mutual friend David Marks. I told her I hadn't been out for a "pottery score" for quite some time, because my house is going to burst with the four color stories I have going on. Don't know what do with it but I still am in love with the glossy color, hefty weight in hand, and shape-

I posted a pic of some of my favorite Bauer- two gigantic McCoys and some LuRay madness. I'm thrifting tomorrow so I'll let you know what I "score" during my morning venture in the best of Billings Montana's thrift spots.