Form and Function: The Bar Cart

It’s not just a piece of office furniture on Mad Men and it’s not just for happy hour.

The bar cart is an iconic piece with endless uses.

When on the hunt for the perfect bar cart,
consider all its possibilities.

Whether you’re looking to display cocktail ingredients or create an entryway system, the bar cart makes organization stylish.

It’s an accent piece that is sure
to become a favorite, not to mention
a great return on your investment.

Here are a few creative ideas that you can use to feature this classic piece in your home:

For a more traditional approach, consider a piece like this vintage French brass bar cart for holding all the necessary provisions for your next attitude-adjustment hour. Photo 1 Image Source: In Colorful Waters

Add a bar cart to your favorite reading nook Think of all the possibilities for styling and adding those final touches. Photo 2 Image Source: Providence Design

Incorporate this versatile piece in your living room design as an end table – It just wouldn’t seem right to leave a remote on this lovely bar cart. Photo 3 Image Source: HGTV

Impress your guests by using a bar cart as a nightstand; it’s a smart option for storing extra blankets and pillows in a guest bedroom. Photo 5 Image Source: Apartment Therapy

There’s no reason to scoff at a proclivity towards timelessness; even in their traditional use bar carts are always a conversation piece. Photo 6 Image Source: Emily Henderson

Holiday Shopping at the 2013 A&AS

Jacksonville’s 2013 Art & Antiques Show is right around the corner.  We look forward to seeing some of our favorite long-time dealers and welcoming several new, unique dealers who will make their debut this year’s A&AS.

To help you get ready to Shop the Show, here’s a sneak peak from this year’s art and antiques dealers.

The Grand Lobby of the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center will have something for everyone:

Asheville, NC fans will be thrilled to see Village Antiques at Biltmore display their fine treasures. Village Antiques offers an outstanding selection of period furniture and decorative art hand-picked by a trio of proprietors with 65 years of combined experience.

The Antique & Design Center of High Point will showcase their eclectic mix of Continental Glam and Midcentury Modern.

Those interested in small treasures will love The Antique Box Shop, specializing in antique boxes and caddies from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales (circa 1790-1890).

For those with a classic design aesthetic, visit Kevin Perry who serves discerning clients from all over the east coast and divides his time between Camden, South Carolina and West Palm Beach, Florida.

The Ballroom of the Prime F. Osborn III Convention Center will be home to many of our new dealers:

Visit Artist Bonnie Fuchs during the weekend of the Show. Alexander & Victor Fine Art of Mississippi describes Bonnie Fuchs as loving all things neutral with the end result being pieces that “breath elegance.”  This self-taught artist was born in Jackson, Mississippi and raised in Dallas, Texas. She started painting after relocating to the shores of coastal Alabama’s beautiful Mobile Bay.

Martha Stewart herself is a big fan of our new dealer Bob Withington from York, Maine.  According to Ms. Stewart’s blog,  she always enjoys “their European and American antiques, decorative arts, garden ornaments, lighting, and mirrors.”

The Ballroom will host B&B Johnson from Kennebunk, Maine and Michael Whittemore, a prestigious dealer out of Punta Gorda, Florida who specializes in Americana and weathervanes.

Daria de Koning will bring beautiful bobbles, the perfect holiday gift.  Daria designs one-of-a-kind pieces that stand out in a crowd. She often incorporates antique elements, each piece is sure to become a stylish statement.

We hope that you will visit these featured dealers who are new to this year’s Art & Antiques Show and located in the Grand Lobby and the Ballroom.

A great time to take note of all the new faces and treasures is the Opening Night Party. Be sure to stop in the Ballroom for some fantastic Indian-inspired appetizers including our curry bar.

For tickets and more information about our 2013 exhibitors, visit http://www.artandantiquesshow.com or call 904.202.2886.

 

The Resident Features A&AS Blog

In its current issue, The Resident focuses on the theme Giving/Thanksgiving.

The issue takes a look at the Northeast Florida nonprofit sector and its positive impact in communities throughout the region. Kate A. Hallock writes about the Wolfson Children’s Hospital in the article, “Excellence in healthcare unsustainable without Philanthropic Giving” on page B16.

In the article, Hallock discusses the individuals, organizations and the nearly 60-year history of philanthropic giving for Baptist Health. She includes the The Women’s Board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital and its long history of support including raising “22 million for select equipment, programs and facilities at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.”

Turn to page B13 to read about how this blog is helping to build interest and support for one of The Women’s Board’s signature fundraisers, the annual Art & Antiques Show.

In 2013, The Women’s Board accepted a new challenge to raise $4 million (over five years) for the creation of a Pediatric Surgery Center of Distinction at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.  This center will enable a highly skilled surgical staff to work on advancing surgical techniques, expanding the use of minimally invasive and robotic surgery and helping the hospital meet the needs of pediatric trauma patients. 

The Women’s Board is very excited about this five-year challenge and its expected results: saving children’s lives and increasing the quality of their care. Wolfson Children’s Hospital President, Michael D. Aubin, FACHE, aptly stated:

Today we are on the forefront of a whole new world of surgery that will allow us to do things we could only dream about just a few years ago. I believe that The Women’s Board can make these dreams come true for the children and their families that so desperately need our expert surgical care.

New to the 2013 Show: Wreath Making Workshop

There are several new and exciting things happening at this year’s Art & Antiques Show.

One of the most anticipated events is the wreath making workshop presented by James Farmer.

James, who is beloved by many in Jacksonville, is an author, floral and interior designer, cook and garden-to-table-lifestyle expert. He is also a veteran Art & Antiques Show guest lecturer, but this is the first time that attendees will have an opportunity to take a hands-on floral arrangement course from James.

Read James Farmer’s September 2012 post about incorporating wreaths all year-long.

In the workshop, James will share his techniques for incorporating the surrounding landscape into home décor. Attendees will have the opportunity to transform greenery and other materials into fresh seasonal arrangements.

James will share his ideas and techniques, including those contained in his 2012 book Wreaths for All Seasons.

While wreaths are a fixture in many homes year-round, this workshop will provide 2013 Art & Antiques Show attendees with something special to take home for the holidays.

Just imagine creating and taking home one of these stunning James Farmer arrangements!

Before you make your wreath at the 2013 Art & Antiques Show, check out James Farmer’s December 2011 post.

The wreath making workshop will take place Saturday, December 7th at the 2013 Art & Antiques Show.  Workshop attendees will be able to interact with James in an intimate setting.  As a result, space is limited so be sure to reserve your tickets early by clicking here.

Can’t wait until December? Visit James Farmer’s blog, All Things Farmer.

Favorite Things: Alligator Handbag

There’s a story behind every piece of artwork or antique. The “stories” are often as intriguing as the beauty and the craftsmanship of the items themselves.

We’ve asked community members and Art & Antiques Show supporters to share with us the story behind a  memorable piece in their collection.

In this post, Avondale resident Heather Houston tells us why her Alligator Handbag is one of her Favorite Things.

Describe the memorable piece in your collection?

A vintage, genuine alligator handbag. The handbag is black with a metal clasp.

1950’s Alligator Handbag

Share any background information that you may have on this item.

To learn more about this handbag, I spoke with the original owner, Berrilyn Houston.

In 1950, Berrilyn purchased the handbag at Purcell’s Clothing Store for Women. Purcell’s, which was located in downtown Jacksonville, was her favorite place to shop. Berrilyn estimates that the handbag ranged from $50-$60, but she is certain that she used her mother’s charge account to make the purchase.

Here are some photos of the department store:

Jacksonville, Florida
Photo Credit:State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory
Photographer: Jack (John Gordon), Spotswood Studio

April 20, 1953
Photo Credit: State Archives of Florida, Florida Memory; Photographer: Robert E. Fisher

When did you purchase or acquire this piece?

The alligator handbag was a Christmas gift from my mother-in-law Carolyn Houston.

How have you used or displayed this piece?

I enjoy pairing this bag with a sophisticated little black dress and heels for cocktail parties and similar occasions.

Why is this piece special to you?

This piece is special because it was gift that had been passed down from mother-in-law to daughter-in-law for two generations. Berrilyn Houston gave this handbag to Carolyn who gave it to me. It was the first Christmas that I was married to my husband, making this memory extra special. I received this handbag, which I now consider an heirloom, and a homemade cookbook full of family recipes – it’s a good thing that handbags are one-size-fits-all.

Please share your involvement with or connection to the Women’s Board at Wolfson Children’s Hospital?

This is my first year volunteering with the Art & Antiques Show. I serve on the Young Collectors Party committee and I am working with a great team of authors to launch the Art & Antiques Show’s first blog.

What are you looking forward to most about the 2013 Art & Antiques Show?

I am looking forward to gathering ideas for decorating our first home and hopefully a little shopping.

Interested in sharing a favorite piece in your collection? 

To learn more and submit your Favorite Things,

please email womensboardwch@bmcjax.com.

Art & Antiques Show Blog Welcomes William Nash

William Nash

I am excited to announce that my friend and decorative arts expert William Nash will become a regular Art & Antiques Show blog author. Through his posts, William will share his expertise and experience in antiques, home décor and restoration.
He will contribute to the recurring series Form and Function where readers can learn new and innovative ways to use their favorite pieces.
In the series Ask the Expert, William will answer questions from Art & Antiques Show blog readers.

Learn more about William by reading his bio below:

William Nash is one of the Southeast’s up-and-coming experts in antiques and decorative arts. He holds a B.A. in History from the University of Georgia, as well as a certificate in Appraisal Studies in Antiques and Fine Art from the University of Georgia in partnership with the American Society of Appraisers. He is a member of the Estate Planning Council of Northeast Florida and a candidate member of the American Society of Appraisers. William is carrying on the trade and tradition of his father, Bill III, who has been named “second to none” in Jacksonville for his work as an antiques restorer and conservator. Together, William and his father run E.W. Nash & Son, an antiques restoration and appraisal firm located in Jacksonville, Florida. One of the nation’s youngest in his field, William has a passion for history, tradition, and collecting, and is revitalizing the world of antiques for the next generation. He and his wife, Leanna, live in Jacksonville’s historic district of Avondale with their two children, Laurie and William V. When he is not in his workshop or out in the field appraising, William enjoys restoring and maintaining his 1924 home, which he affectionately calls “Nash Abbey”. You can learn more about William and his work at www.ewnash.com.

Have a question for the Ask the Expert series?
Email your inquiry to womensboardwch@bmcjax.com.

Making an Impression

The 37th Annual Art & Antiques Show’s theme is Impressions of India, a motif inspired by the country’s use of rich colors and lavish textiles.

The show will open Friday, December 6 and feature a lecture from celebrated designer Miles Redd. That evening the Opening Night Party will be held for the first time ever on a Friday night. The Show will continue through Sunday, December 8th and feature additional lectures and workshops by Danielle Rollins, Bunny Williams & John Rosselli, James Farmer, and Juli Catlin & William Nash.  

Proceeds from the Show will support the creation of a Pediatric Surgery Center of Distinction at Wolfson Children’s Hospital.

It is our hope that by attending this year’s show, you will be inspired by India’s bold, yet traditional approach – whether you are an avid antiquary or a young collector.

When it comes to the value of attending these types of events, Quitessence Lifstyle Blogger Stacy Bewkes said it best in her October 2012 post:

“Anyone interested in art and design should consider attending such shows. It hones your eye, educates you about the marketplace and helps put things in perspective across the board. In fact it’s this connecting the dots that’s my favorite aspect, tracing inspiration and finding common threads throughout disciplines and eras.”

In that same post, Stacy shared her experience viewing antique jewelry from India at the International Art and Antique Dealers Show. These jewels, which date back to the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, capture the country’s classic jewelry designs.

Photo Credit: Quintessence Blog
International Art and Antique Dealers Show

Just two months later, she paid homage to India’s architectural history and its connection to the country’s heritage when she revisited the book Mighty Maharajas | Forts and Palaces of India in her December 2012 post. It was her visit to the Show and viewing these time-honored jewels that inspired her to re-explore India’s architectural design aesthetic. 

Photo Credit: Quintessence Blog
The City Palace in Rajasthan, India

Indian design is experiencing a renaissance. Here are a few examples of India’s influence on popular culture’s design and style:

In the second season of the Bravo TV Show, Million Dollar Decorators, Mary McDonald & Martyn Bullard Lawrence traveled to India to design a tabletop collection for One Kings Lane, a flash-sale website dedicated to home décor.

Mary McDonald & Martyn Bullard Lawrence
Million Dollar Decorators

Indian inspired designs are frequently featured on the website, which invites consumers to shop from curated collections. More recently, artisan and homeware designer Michael Aram curated a collection inspired by South India.

Michael Aram for One Kings Lane

Apartment Therapy featured several Indian inspired rooms in Passage to India: Resources for South Asian Home Accents. In Trend Alert: The Glamour of India, ELLE DECOR provided examples of rooms inspired by the country including a headboard created using John Robshaw fabrics. HGTV featured this Shelly Riehl David Design in 12 Spaces Inspired by India.

Left: Apartment Therapy; Middle: ELLE DECOR; Right: HGTV

John Robshaw offers an entire line of home goods and textiles inspired by India. His designs have been featured in several publications. ELLE DECOR provided a glimpse into his New York home in Home and Abroad: John Robshaw’s New York Home. His living room was featured in Your Favorite ELLE DECOR Rooms of 2012.

John Robshaw’s New York Living Room
Your Favorite ELLE DECOR Rooms of 2012

For more inspiration, attend the 37th Annual Art & Antiques Show taking place Friday, December 6 through Sunday, December 8.

We hope you enjoy our weekly blog and we hope to see you in December!

House Beautiful Features Miles Redd

For 37 years, the Art & Antiques Show has featured some of the most acclaimed and widely recognized designers.

Top design publications have featured their spaces, sought their perspective and dedicated glossy pages to their work.

The Power of Color Issue, September 2013

 

 

In the September issue of House Beautiful, interior designer and 2013 Art & Antiques Show guest lecturer Miles Redd created a sea-inspired tablescape – a perfect look for entertaining on the First Coast.

 

Another Look at Miles Redd’s Sea-Inspired Tablescape

 

In the issue dedicated to the fearless use of color, Miles shares his tablescape designed for an outdoor New York luncheon.

 

 

 

 

Miles dressed the table by incorporating shades of pale blue and ivory.

Place Setting
Pale blue and ivory tablescape by Miles Redd

He featured accents from Oscar de la Renta including a shell crab condiment server, silver-plated salt and pepper shaker sets and a silver-plated julep cup with a basket weave pattern.

To read more about this design, get the latest issue of House Beautiful. To get more design tips from Miles Redd, plan to attend his lecture at this year’s Art and Antiques Show on Friday, December 6, 2013 at 10:00 am.

 

Cocktails for a Summer Send-Off

Photo Credit: Laura Magevney

In Florida, it’s summer nine months out of the year.

Not that this little fact should get in the way of celebrating the final days of the “official season” along with our friends to the north.

This post shares a few cocktails that symbolize the sun, the sand and the long days of summer.

2013 Art & Antiques Show Chair Laura Magevney shares a favorite apéritif for a summertime party.

Ortega Lemonade, a mixed drink that always proves a crowd-pleaser on hot summer days.

Photo Credit: Laura Magevney

Ingredients:
1 gallon lemonade
2 (12 oz) cans frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
1 (12 oz) can frozen limeade concentrate, thawed
1 16 oz bottle Key lime juice
1 1/2 (1.75 liter) bottles citrus flavored vodka
2 lemons & 2 limes, sliced

Instructions:
Combine the first 5 ingredients in a large container.
Mix well. Serve over ice.
Recipe Courtesy of the Toast of the Coast Cookbook provided by The Junior League of Jacksonville.

For a refreshing appetizer, Laura turns to layers of watermelon, feta cheese and basil stacked together in bite size portions.

Photo credit: Laura Magevney

It’s not time for the Kentucky Derby, but James Farmer’s Mint Julep should be enjoyed more than once a year. James says this classic cocktail is one of his “go to Southern Summer drinks.”

For those looking for a little more spice, Danielle Rollins shares a recipe for a Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita in her blog, Gracious Living & Stylish Entertaining.

Photo Credit: Gracious Living & Stylish Entertaining

These mixed drinks are perfect for a last-minute summer gathering or for anyone who favors serving cocktails that reflect the warm climate of the Sunshine State.

NEW FUNDING TARGET

The Women’s Board has announced a new five-year, $4 million pledge to fund the Pediatric Surgery Center of Distinction. Click here to learn more.