Meet the Blogger: Helena of A Diary of Lovely

In 5 words describe Helena

passionate, patient, compassionate, stubborn, chatty

You are a world traveler! Tell us where you are currently located, and where you have lived before!

I currently live in London but my home is Barcelona. I was born and raised in Barcelona (minus 4 years living in Athens). I love my home city and miss it dearly to be honest but life kept me in London and I try to live it the best I can. I came here to study a MA and I was only supposed to stay for a year, circumstances kept me for a bit longer and then I met my boyfriend, the rest is history :)

We live in central London and I can't complain to be honest, life isn't treating us badly. I am blessed with a wonderful family, some really good friends and a wonderful partner. I recently started a new job that for now keeps me happy and we have a pretty house I love taking care of. I am lucky as I have traveled a lot and been to most of Europe and some other places around the world which is blissful and a great experience. One of my favorite trips was to Northern California and Vegas :)

What inspired  "A Diary of Lovely"? and what is your favorite part of blogging?

Last spring I came across Apartment Therapy and I became highly obsessed. From there the Internet was my oyster and my desktop started overflowing. I wanted a place to store my inspiration, ideas, things I loved and cherished which is how the blog began. I never thought I would take it to where it is today and to be honest it's still a half dream, I never thought anyone would want to read me! It has opened incredible new doors and has allowed me to meet some incredible ladies. Every comment, every email, every reader, follower is a little smile in my life, A Diary of Lovely would be nothing without all these so I can't say thanks loudly enough. 

I love discovering new blogs, new people, new inspiring people daily, there is so much talent. It is a privilege to be part of this community and truly and honestly feel blessed, it has completely changed my life and has made me believe more in myself and want to improve every day. Hopefully I can continue doing it for a very long time and maybe one day I can meet some of you personally. 

Name your top places you go to for inspiration? (blogs, places, people)

Blogs, blogs, blogs for sure, I can't even narrow it down to some and I would rather not name specifics as I have a long list of blogs I follow and admire and really don't want to miss anyone. Magazines, I subscribe to several and there is always something that will inspire me or give me an idea or two. I get inspiration everywhere, in the street for example, London is such a diverse city and inspiration is everywhere. My family, especially my mom also inspire me, and my friends. And blogs, did I mention blogs? :D

What is your dream job? OR Where would you like to be in five years?

My dream job, aaah that's THE big question. Ideally I would love to work from home, and work for myself. Not sure if it will ever happen but I'm hoping one day I will be able to manage myself, I would love to be able to afford more time for A Diary of Lovely too. In five years time I would like to be married and have a baby. Spend quality time with my partner and fully enjoy life. Hopefully live in Barcelona closer to my family too. For now these are thoughts and dreams and I would love to come back here in 5 years and tell you that I've accomplished these or some at least. 

Keep up with Helena here:

A Diary of Lovely

*Helena is one of the sweetest girls, and she is so much fun to follow! Her blog is filled with inspiration, giveaways, fashion, etc. Be sure to check it out! Thank you so much Helena for allowing us to get to know you better!

Embrace the Camera Challenge

This week Amy from Buggie and Jellybean introduced me to The Anderson Crew through the "Embrace the Camera" challenge. (I know...a little late). Its a challenge for us moms to put down the camera and get in front of it with your kids:) I was lucky to have my sister Angela snap these shots for me. She did such a great job...I know have some priceless photos with my little one.

Thank you Emily and Amy for getting me to do this!

See you all Monday with an all new Meet the Blogger post!

Style - Long Weekend Glam

My lovely friend Ann (daily-ann-tidote) and I finally got our act together to bring you another style spread. Just in time for the Memorial Day Weekend shopping trips:) Here are a few favorites we found...

Delia Romper - Trina Turk - 188$

Field Nap Necklace - Anthropologie - 188$

Raffia Hat - Athleta - 40$

Metallic Miller Thongs - Tory Burch - 188$

I know...although we would all love to spend our paychecks on Anthropologie or Trina Turk, sometimes Target does the job:) We did the searching so you don't have to. Here is a similar look that is budget friendly:)...

Romper/Cardigan Outfit - Target - 15$

Floppy Straw Hat - Gap - 30$

Beaded Dangle Bib Necklace - Target - 40$

Grecian Flat Sandals - Target - 18$

Hope you enjoy your long weekend! Its a great weekend to remember those fighting for our country and those who died doing so. I for one, am so grateful for these men and women who fight for our freedom. See you Monday with a new fabulous blogger to introduce you to!

DIY: Make Your Day Designs

This is the perfect girl to feature for both artistry and DIY inspiration! I have been wanting to try tackling my sewing machine lately, so when Colbey showed me her beautiful website, my jaw dropped. SUCH beautiful design patterns. Handbags, clutches, crib bumpers....you can DIY! After reading her testimonials, I am convinced it will be achievable:) 

In her own words: "I never thought of myself as crafty, but as someone who loved smart clean design.  After years of pursuing a corporate career I found myself going in a completely different direction, I will be officially launching my debut collection May 21-23 at International Quilt Market...I design clean, sophisticated sewing patterns that give individuals access to high-end design that they can create themselves."

MAKE YOUR DAY DESIGNS | Facebook Page

Thank you Colbey for sharing your talent with us!

Bits O Honey Giveaway!

So happy to introduce to you Bits O Honey Designs. Monica is from one of my hometowns...Atlanta, Georgia. I discovered her through my friend Katie. Her designs include handmade fabric wallets, clutches, business card cases, and my fave.."that time of the month" clutches. All in bright and eye catching fabrics at affordable prices! I decided I must have one of every pattern....okay well maybe just one of each category;) She is offering one of you lucky gals the chance to win a free card case clutch of your choice!

To enter (leave a separate comment for each):

Visit Bits O Honey and let us know which one you would choose!

Tweet, facebook, or blog about the giveaway!

(Must be a follower or subscriber of IHOD to enter.)

Winner will be chosen next Monday night!

Best of luck!

Inspiration: Crystal of Plush Palate

In five words describe Crystal: passionate, poised, philosophical, strong, and grateful.  

When did you decide to start blogging and what directed the theme?: 

I started blogging in November 2008 (tough it didn't become a daily habit until May 2009) after reading an article written by a popular food blogger and fellow Tufts University graduate, The Wednesday Chef, in my alumni magazine. After visiting her blog, I thought, I want to try this! I instantly fell in love with that feeling of being 'published' and putting my inspirations and thoughts out into the universe. The funny thing is, I started as a fashion blogger because that's what I was interested at the time, but through time my interest evolved into interior design. So in many ways, blogging helped me unearth my true passion at a time when I was searching for my career calling. It's catapulted me into a career I absolutely love...and for that I'm endlessly grateful. 

Where do you go for design inspiration?: 

For inspiration I turn to my favorite design blogs. There are so many amazingly talented bloggers out there and I am constantly impressed by their intelligence, hard work, and creativity. They push me to challenge my own writing skills and to continue to hone my eye for design. For me it's important not to become complacent and to always be evolving. The design blog community helps inspire me to do that, while offering me support, camaraderie, and friendship. I can't even begin to tell you how many deep and meaningful friendships I've made through blogging!

What do you find catches your eye when it comes to interior space? 

A sense of harmony and serenity. Sometimes you can't explain it, but a room just feels right. Of course it has everything to do with the perfect composition of symmetry, scale, contrast, balance and more....but that's the behind the scenes stuff of what makes me feel wonderful in a space. I'm also drawn to neutral color palettes, a mix of rustic and modern, and attention grabbing decor at the moment. 

Just for fun, what would you say are your designer must haves? 

In fashion? Jimmy Choo heels (so comfy) and a Bottega Veneta purse (still dreaming of owning one someday...). In interiors? A Saarinen marble top tulip table and Sferra bedding. 

Find more of Crystal and Plush Palate Here:

Blog | Twitter | Facebook

* Thank you so much Crystal for sharing some inspiration with us. Be sure and check out this lovely lady's blog! You will find so many things to love about it:)

Style: From the Favorites File

Tulle4us

Vadjutka Jewelry

Chairloom via LonnyMag

Happy Weekend! Stay tuned for an all new Meet the Blogger interview, giveaway, and artist feature next week!

DIY: Pom Pom Sandal Flats via For the Love

(*Tape strips courtesy of Pugly Pixel)

Sarah Jane is kindly letting me share this adorable DIY with you. Need to spice up an old pair of sandals? Here is a fun way to do so! Much more affordable than the 540$ pair pictured above! Visit For the Love for the full instructions! You are going to love this girl!

Do you have a DIY to share? Submit your work.

A huge shout out to Wild and Precious for the Pool Party Blog Invite:)

Also, to Brown Eyed Belle for the Versatile Blogger Award! You ladies are fabulous!

Artistry: ABSEE Photography

When Allison submitted her work, I was smitten with her clever concept of letter photography. I love how it makes you stop and think when you are reading a word....you get sucked in trying to figure out where each letter originated, and what it is made of. 

Follow Allison's Work, and discover how you can order your own personalized word:

SHOP | Flickr Photos

*Thank you Allison for sharing your work with us! 

Tuesday News: Blog Design + Sseko Designs

Postponing the giveaway till next week, because the shop hosting it sold out of her items and she has to re-stock! Just a hint that it is going to be a good one:) Want to share a few things with you.....Did some blog touch ups and design layout for artist Dallas Shaw over at DillyDallas. Check it out:) Really fun blog to follow while you are at it!

Also, so excited to share a little about Sseko Designs. One of IHOD's lovely readers, Meghan, sent this to me, and I was UH-MAZED.  These women are so beautiful, strong, and determined. Not only that, their sandal designs are incredible. I am planning on purchasing a pair...

Please take a moment to Read the full story! 

Shop the sandals here. (They even customize for weddings!)

Get inspired....

Inspiration: Emi's Birth Story

*Have you ever read Design Mom's birth stories? Well, since I have baby fever, I have been reading them quite often. This one however, really struck my heart and I had to share with you. Trust me, you will want to read the full story!*

Just before our one-year wedding anniversary, my husband Steve and I moved to Chicago where my husband would attend Medical School. Not long after moving, we excitedly phoned home to our parents to relate the news: “We’re going to have a baby!” Through months of anticipation, every preparation was made in for our baby’s arrival. Dresses were hung in the closet, blankets were carefully embroidered, and quilts were pieced.  Little onesies and socks were folded neatly and placed in the dresser. The dresser was refinished, the cradle was readied, the room was painted. Most importantly, we had worked to ready our hearts by cultivating feelings of love and harmony in our home.

However, after 8 months of pregnancy, I stopped feeling my baby’s movements. We were shocked to learn that even before being born, our baby girl (whom we named Eliza) had died.

When Eliza stopped living, I felt like a large part of me died with her. I had many questions — Why did I lose my child if I had been living a life that I believed made me capable of being a caring mother? Why did this turn out so differently than I envisioned? In times of sorrow, I found hope in this scripture:  “Believe in God; believe that he is, and that he created all things, both in heaven and in earth; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth; believe that man doth not comprehend all the things which the Lord can comprehend.”
The loss of our beautiful baby taught me many lessons. As I internalized the loving truth that our Father in Heaven sent His Son to die for us, I learned the depth of a parent’s love. In the years that followed the death and birth of our daughter, Steve and I grew stronger together as a couple. We continued on, but it was difficult — there were still a lot of tender moments when I yearned to hold and teach my lost baby.

Our joy was immeasurable when, a few years later, we finally welcomed our precious newborn daughter Ella Jayne into our family. The first night after giving birth, I tried to rest, but I couldn’t sleep. I kept my baby with me. The nurses couldn’t believe that I had not utilized any of the pain medications offered for post-delivery pains. But I did not feel any pain, just pure joy!  I counted her fingers and toes. I fed her. Steve and I held her, talked to her and rocked her. I was so grateful to hear her cries. I felt profoundly the need to protect her, love her and teach her. I continue to feel this!  Ella is now 9 years old — and she lights up our lives!  Being a mother is truly a gift of the greatest proportions. READ MORE>>

Hope each of you had a wonderful weekend and are enjoying life each day as it comes:) Stay tuned for a lovely giveaway tomorrow, and a new featured blogger next Monday!

Friday Style: However Handbags

I am going crazy over these unique handbags. I am not one to go for the bag just for the brand name...(i.e. coach, Louis Vuitton, etc.) I am drawn to functionality, color, and unique style. Check out HOWEVER shop and tell me what you think!

Fun Links for your weekend:

Laundromat Love Engagement Shoot

A Recipe for the Perfect Frosting

Anyone else excited for Robin Hood?
Don't forget that you get a 20% discount at BrideBlu! Details here.

Have a blessed weekend! Lots of graduation parties and events for me:)

Guest Blogger DIY: Scrappy Fabric Necklace

I was so happy when Ashley from Sugar & Spice Mommy submitted this tutorial! Isn't it lovely?! 

She gives excellent instructions that will make it easy for you to do! 

Head over to her blog for the full details!

Supplies:
Fabric Scraps in your favorite patterns and colors
3/4 wood balls (found in the wood craft section of your local craft store)
Grosgrain ribbon
sewing machine
needle
covered button

Imagine the possibilities of colors and patterns you could use!

* Tape Resource from PuglyPixel

Artistry: A Life Through the Lens

I love discovering new artists. I found Kristi through Simply Hue. 

Her work is peaceful, calm, and charming. Support a new etsy artist!

A Life through the Lens:

Shop | Flickr | Blog

*Tape resource found via PuglyPixel

Bride Blu + Discount for readers!

When I discovered BrideBlu, I knew I had to share this shop with all of you. Her pieces are stunning. I would wear all of her designs! Well, guess what?! Cat is offering a special discount to IHOD readers! Lucky you.....You get to take 20% off your purchases from now until May 20th! Just enter the discount code "In Honor Of Design" in the checkout. Happy Shopping!

You can find more Bride Blu Here:

Shop | Blog

Mothers Day Recap

"That special power of loving that belongs to a woman is seen most clearly when she becomes a mother. Motherhood is the gift of God to women. How grateful we must be to God for this wonderful gift that brings such joy to the whole world, women and men alike!" - Mother Theresa

Coming off an incredible weekend in St. Louis with my family. It was the first time in two years my entire family could all be together. I didn't want it to end. Gabriel loved being with all his aunts and uncles too:) Got the majority of us in these pics! 

*Necklace I am wearing is one of the new line of bib poppy necklaces I will put in the shop soon!*

Friday Style: Geometry

(modcloth + Orla Keily)

I am loving the geometry going on in the Fashion world:)

Happy Mother's Day Weekend to you all! All ten of my brothers and sisters + husbands + kids get to be together this Mother's Day weekend for the first time in two years! My brother made it home from Ireland (despite the volcanic ash) where he is studying, and we are all enjoying this precious time. I love my family more than anything. Hope your weekend is blessed!

Mother's Day DIY Inspiration

Elizabeth Ann Designs has some beautiful ideas to make your Mother's Day gift more personal. I think handmade gifts speaks volumes. They are my favorite gifts to receive and give. 

Grab some inspiration HERE!

Melissa from Design Delights, also did a fabulous round up! 

Check out her blog make over while you are there!

(resources found via Design Delights)

Tell me what you are doing for Mother's Day! I love hearing from you:)

      

Artistry: Promise Tangeman Design Work

As a graphic designer, I really appreciate other designer's good work when I see it. If you visit Promise Tangeman's Blog you will be amazed by the work she creates. 

DESIGN WORK: PROMISE TANGEMAN CLIENT: MATILDA JANE

The final color scheme chosen:

Flawless, right? You can read the full story behind the design work here.