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Quintessence

Quintessence

Lifestyle blog | Living Well with Style and Substance

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    • Books that I have collaborated on, as photographer, with design author Susanna Salk
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Style

Boston Collage
Style

A Delay in Programming in Deference to Boston

Today we were planning to post our latest Stylish Shopping video with Amanda Nisbet, but in deference to the tragedy… Read More

BuDhaGirl core_cuff_hero_lrg
Fashion, Gifts

Meet BuDhaGirl | More than Just Beautiful

In the crowded world of fashion and luxury, sometimes it’s not only about being beautiful. And indeed, the new jewelry… Read More

Anna Trzebinski fur and belt
Fashion, Travel

Anna Trzebinski | The Luxury of African Chic

You know when you see a certain woman on the street who just has that special something? That unmistakable style… Read More

J.Crew purple and red for fall 2013
Fashion

J.Crew Fall 2013 | Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

While Moroccan themes have been at play for a while in both fashion and interiors, inspiration from a recent trip… Read More

Back of J. Mendel silk chiffon gown
Fashion

J. Mendel Fall 2013 | Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

Unabashed luxury always marks the collections of J. Mendel. But this fall it’s a luxury with conspicuous contrasts – outerwear… Read More

Jenny Packham fall 2013
Fashion

Jenny Packham Fall 2013 | Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

Jenny Packham’s beautiful new collection is princess pretty – literally and figuratively. With elegant slim shapes and flowing silks and… Read More

back of Naeem Khan petal gown
Fashion

Naeem Khan Fall 2013 | Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

From the very first dress, it was clear that Naeem Khan is yet again red carpet ready. With a wide… Read More

Ralph Rucci fall 2013 collection
Fashion

Ralph Rucci Fall 2013 | Mercedes Benz Fashion Week

When explaining my set of photographs from the exquisite Chado Ralph Rucci show to my sister, she suggested entitling the… Read More

Veronica Beard and Angela Guitard
Fashion

New York Fashion Week Fall 2013 | Veronica Beard

Do you know the charming story of Veronica Beard? Of two sisters-in-law, both named Veronica, who married brothers? With backgrounds… Read More

Hyde Park Antiques regency sofa table detail
Art & Antiques, Design, Gifts, Interior design, Jewelry

1stDibs Designers Preview at the Winter Antiques Show

Before the throngs arrived on opening morning at the Winter Antiques Show, I was delighted to attend the Designers’ Preview… Read More

Paris Collage
Style

Hello from Maison et Objet and Paris Deco Off

A quick bonjour to all of you from Paris as I write from my charming hotel room. It’s been a… Read More

Museum of bags and purses cafe
Architecture, Fashion, Travel

The Museum of Bags and Purses

Yes, you read that right. I am happy to report that there is actually a Museum of Bags and Purses…. Read More

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40 years ❤️ 40 years ❤️
A magical retreat on Paros. There’s something so c A magical retreat on Paros. There’s something so compelling about the home of an artist and collector and @toddmarshard’s is as distinctive and personal as his work @Marshard.Paros . The ceramic artist has filled his stunning home with art and collections gathered over a lifetime. Our latest At Home With is now live - LINK IN PROFILE

Architecture: ALONI | Architects — Elena Terzi @iaveria & Dimitris Popotas
Nantucket baskets are suddenly everywhere this sum Nantucket baskets are suddenly everywhere this summer — filling Instagram feeds, appearing in the pages of The New York Times and garnering attention in publications around the world. Coveted by collectors and a whole new generation of enthusiasts, these iconic baskets are having an undeniable moment. Yet behind all the current excitement is a fascinating story of history, tradition, ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship.

Five years ago, I had the privilege of making this film with @Mary_emery_design, Director of Heritage Craft for the @nantuckethistoricalassociation , exploring the history and evolution of Nantucket lightship baskets through the people who know them best. We visited master basket makers Karl and Susan Ottison, Tim Parsons and Nap Plank, and heard about legendary maker José Reyes from his son-in-law, Maurice Gibbs. We also spent time with Nantucket scrimshander Michael Vienneau, whose work illustrates another chapter in the continuing evolution of the basket.

The film was made at the time the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum became affiliated with the Nantucket Historical Association, bringing its extraordinary collection — and the stories and traditions it represents — into the care of the NHA.

With Nantucket baskets now capturing the attention of an entirely new audience, it seemed the perfect time to revisit the film and celebrate the remarkable makers, history and craftsmanship behind this enduring Nantucket tradition.

Watch the full film at the link in bio.
August, stay a while. August, stay a while.
Charleston has a way of drawing people back again Charleston has a way of drawing people back again and again—and homes like this remind us why.
Tag along as designer @michaelmitchelldesigner welcomes us inside his gracious home, where layers of history, thoughtful collecting, and a deeply personal approach to design make every room a reflection of both its owner and the city itself.
LINK IN PROFILE.
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