Gina Galvin's Design Bloggatorium for Peacock Park

Merry Christmas !!!!!!

2011-12-25T11:14:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas from Me, and everyone at the Peacock Flock.
I am so grateful for the past year. Thank you so much to everyone for your love and support.

Mat Give a way Winner is...............

2011-12-15T06:58:00.002-06:00

The winner is........Trash Talk is the winner of the compliments of the season mat,
send me your address so we can get this on santas sleigh before xmas.........
Because I am sooooooooooo behind on everything I gave another winner one on facebook.
Have a super duper holiday.

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow..........GIVE A WAY..

2011-11-30T12:05:00.014-06:00

Well Winter is definitely here.....AAhhhhhhh. I do NOT like snow. Dont get me wrong. I like the way in looks, but I don't like the COLD. It is miserable. I dress like an eskimo and still freeze.
My kids however beg to differ.....Oh, yes, they squeal with delight. There is a ritual in these parts that if kids want a snow day, they wear their pajamas inside out, put a spoon under their pillow and flush an ice cube down the toilet before going to bed. (Now who ever thought that up I would like to know) Yes, they all do it, and just hope for a day off school.

lately these past few days, I have been finalizing the items for the January market season. I am super psyched hoping that it all comes together.
I am introducing a Christmas line Peacock Park Style. This has me a bit whipped up hoping it all comes together and gets here on time to pull it all together. I am just keeping my fingers crossed. There is alot of pieces so far, everything from glass ornaments , paper houses. Glass garland, metal votives. Life size snowmen.....of course rusted to perfection. Not to mention an assortment of angels, santos and nativity ideas. I will be posting pictures after Market of some of the new designs.

Okay so here is just a tiny sneak peek into what I am up to....casual Christmas part of the line.

This is a strung rope with 24 individual pouches with satin labels and felt numbers to put your advent treats in.

This is just the top of one of the many stockings that are in the works.........

This is certainly just the tip of the iceburg, but hopefully it is something the customers will like.

I have to say I am a bit nervous on this one. Everytime you do something for the first time it is a bit scary. But I have never been one to NOT try something new. I will always try anything at least once. You never know until you try right? So if the Holiday line is well recieved I can see it growing out of control. It is so fun. Do I hear bigger showrooms???? hahahahah NOT!

Well back to work, I have to redesign some stockings that came in looking like the grinch could wear them.....2foot long foot, and a 3inch ankle....urgh.... There is always something that has to be reworked. But hey, I love a challenge.
Happy Snow day !!!!!
Oh, by the way, I will be doing another give away again this week of something really cool beings it is so cold here.. how about a really cool compliments of the season printed mat

It is printed bamboo and has a non skid backing and the perfect size 2x3 for in front of the kitchen sink or even at the front door. Good Luck. drop me a line on either facebook, email or blog. Whatever is easiest for you
XO

GINA

Christmas in Houston

2011-11-17T14:54:00.004-06:00

Well the Peacock Flock went to the Nutcracker Market in Houston last weekend, and wow is it a frenzy. If you haven't heard of the Nutcracker Market it is a Holiday Market that benefits the Houston ballet and there are vendors selling everything from carmel apples to tables. We decided to show the line at the market to get the brand recognition out there. It was a tremendous success. We have gotten many phone calls and emails of consumers of the market, looking for a retail store near them for our products. Some people dont understand why we would want to do a "retail" show, but sometimes you have to pay your dues for the cause. Of course we couldnt take the entire line, in fact very little of it, because of the size of the tiny 24 ft booth. But as usual Kelly and I packed and stacked it to give it the PPD vibe. We have so many wholesale customers in Texas, so it was really great to show a representation of the line to the public of Houston. It is always exciting when the end consumer loves the line, and wants to see more. They ultimately are the ones who buy it from the wholesaler and retailer. We did bring items to sell and were very careful to sell them at a retail price as to not in anyway undercut our retailers. It was alot of work beings we are so far away, but because we do not have a flagship store, and dont have a retail outlet at the warehouse, we thought it was a good way to show the idea of the line to the public in person. The customers were so nice, and many had seen our products in magazines etc, but were thankful to see it in person. They would ask where they could find it locally etc. Even though we are midwestern folks, I have to say, ....I DO love texas. We always feel the warmth and genuine charm the people of Texas have. So thank you again for another wonderful experience in the big vast state of Texas. We will be back to Dallas in January and it will be our pleasure to have you stop in to our new showroom on the 5th floor of the World Trade Center. It was terrific to see some of our current customers, and see new faces. So if you would like to see our products in person as well, just send a message and I will be thrilled to send you to a store near you be it in Texas or any other great state !!!
Crowns Crowns Crowns, they look good any time of the year.
Pillows galore
a repurposed fountain from our Garden Store days!

CONSIGNMENT STORE SCORE !!

2011-11-02T12:03:00.012-05:00

I can't believe that Halloween is already over, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner.
It is time to take down the creepy webs, and skeletons that greet guests at the door, but we get to flip the "witch is in" pumpkins to the other side, to just reveal an orange or white orb with a stem.
It is time to pull all the Autumnal decor out and we get one more month of Fall color before it turns to Winter.
I made a trip to a local consignment shop. You can find the most unusual, quirky, and sometimes tacky stuff usually for a great price at these stores, so I like to pop in whenever I am near one.
This time I found this great little salesmans sample of a brick layers wheelbarrow. I am sure it has some age to it, but I am just not sure how much. None the less, It was a whopping 11 bucks ! (SCORE)
I found some great little white bumpy lumpy gourds mixed in a the local farm I get hay for bedding for the animals at. I just love this for the kitchen island for a festive inexpensive Fall statement.

This is just the tiniest little pumpkin that I ever saw. It is in my daughters hand so it even appears larger than it is.

I had this old basket from our early years at Peacock Park Design.

I just love newspaper shreds. It is getting harder and harder to find a simple shredder. Now they are all "crosscut" which makes tiny confetti. But I like the good old fashion shred. You can usually find a straight shredder at the consignment shop as well. (I did for 10 bucks).

Lumpy Bumpy wonderful gourds. They will last until November.

Great little display. I will probably change it out for the holidays too with some piled greens and small packages.

This is Mike. He and his wife have a farm just down the road not too far from me. I go to buy my straw for all the animal bedding from them. It is always such a nice get a way. The farm has such history, and they are super sweet people.

This is some history on the site. They have a long family history here.

For me, inspiration comes from everything! A worn barn door, a pitted candle, a piece of fabric, or pumpkins and gourds. As much as I HATE the winter......I do like the change of seasons just for a change of scenery to get the creative juices flowing.

I have added a fun new link to the blog. If you click below, you can add your image for a "blog hop". I am asking for your favorite picture of your FALL inspiration.You can vote or "like" your favorites. It is a great way to share the inspiration. Give it a try. I cant wait to see what comes up. Please give it a try.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN...........

2011-10-31T20:34:00.002-05:00

I hope you all have a fantastic Halloween, and may your corner store have tons of 1/2 off candy tomorrow too..........
I have raided my kids sacks while they are asleep.......I hope they dont notice.

A gorgeous Fall Day ! Not many of these left before the snow flies.......urgh.

Just Junkin in Texas......

2011-10-15T01:05:00.028-05:00

I am home from a fast and furious buying trip in Texas..... {I am actually sitting at a desk in my hotel room in Hong Kong to finish this and get it online} Texas is a great chance for inspiration, meeting up with friends, and finding some super props for the showrooms. This is just a smidge of what is there, but I truly have run out of time to post it all . I will truly be posting again another texas segment to show you more fantastic spaces, antiques and people in the near future!
These two adorable gal are the infamous two Teresa's. Teresa who hosts the blog parties at Zapp hall. and T.O.T. {the other Teresa} who has Time worn interiors at Marbuger Farms.
I LOVE this picture of you two.!!

Oh, be still my heart. I want this amazing sewing machine. It was just for display at Magnolia Pearls incredible booth.

Anyone who knows me, also knows that I adore the european miniature theatres. Oh this is a sweet one. I am working on a quaint suite of Theatres in Miniature for my Christmas line. This is some serious inspiration dont cha think!

The Fields, stalls and booths had everything you could think of, houses for dolls.......

Houses for parrots. {look at the creative way to display a chandelier}

Houses for people......

Houses for seedlings....

Houses for birds.............

Houses for flocks of doves......

Architectural parts and pieces.......

Luggage.....

Trunks.......

amazing colors of faded elegance.......

I love a soft palet of bleached pastels......

And of course the always present and impactfull body forms in all shapes and sizes.....

This guy was a mess......

I went by later and he got himself together...........

Many beautiful religious icons, statues and saints..........

The sweet gals at french by design also repurpose these great slips which I couldnt resist...... They have seasonal sales too that you should check out too........ Oh, it was 100 degrees hence the sweaty photo.....The attractive bandage was due to a 13 stitch cut that happened the day before I left for Texas. I think I am going to design some gauze in designer colors and patterns.

Bottles are another item that is so utilitarian but decorative at the same time, especially when it has some age.....

Glass made in the early years had a content of magnesium. When it is exposed to the UV rays of the sun it will turn purple. The more UV...the darker the purple. Yes, these were all clear when first manufactured..... Magic isn't it???

I have a passion for signs....I don't know why exactly, but something about them how they can make such a statement in decor.

These two signs are sideways........I just am too lazy to go back and swith them all around....so please turn your screen sideways for the full and true view......

There is definately so many things in Texas. Something for absolultely everyone.

This sign sums it up Perfectly I think!

AND THE WINNER IS.........

2011-10-04T18:34:00.003-05:00

Yippeeeeeee............
Thank you for ALL your comments. They all went into a pot, and my daughter does the drawing.......I am so thrilled.....Dawn the bohemian from http://bohemianvalhalla.blogspot.com/
Send me your address girl, and we shall send you off your sign.
I will be getting busy on the blogs of Texas Treasure shortly..I have been playing catch up since I got back.

SUPER SIDE BAR GIVE-A-WAY

2011-09-22T16:36:00.006-05:00

I love this sign, It is one of our best sellers.

I am sure if you cant use this, you know someone who can.......

What is a "side bar " give a way????

This is some serious give a ways that I am going to start doing on a weekly basis. I am going to go thru the warehouse, and grab a treasure and post a picture of either a product that we sell, an antique, an old store prop or something from my personal collection of "junque".

Anyone who has our blog listed on their blog sidebar as a "fave" or "follow" will be able to be in the running for a shot at the goodie. I am just so grateful you recommend this blog to anyone, so, as a thank you , I want to give out random Thank You's. All you have to do is drop a note that you would like to win the item, and you will be dropped into the hat, and have a chance.

I am leaving tomorrow morning on a plane to Texas. I will be going to the round top antique fair and I KNOW I will be finding treasure for all the showrooms. I always find great props for the showrooms. It is also such a good time to catch up with all the great talented dealers , vendors, customers and friends that are down there.

I am bringing this Bed and Breakfast sign for Betty and Del. I stay at their place when I am in town. They are my Texas family now.

I thought it would be good to have that be the first give a way. Except this week, because this is the first blog bar give a way, I will also be giving away two of our Halloween mats. It is the perfect time for these too......You will love the mats. They are indestructible and the perfect touch for the home during fall festivities.

Good luck everyone.

At the end of the month, I will see which blog has had the most links to ours and they will get an extra prize of their choice or a gift certificate or something super special.

Gina

I see London I see France.....I see Flea Markets I want to dance.

2011-09-18T20:06:00.011-05:00

I just returned from a quick trip to France. I started in the North, went to the South, and ended up in Paris as a finale.
The best part is I got to go with Mr. Wonderful. It is our favorite city, and he is wanting to move there and I think with or without me.....he LOVES Paris as much as I do. We both travel for work so much that it was nice to tromp around the cities with him.

This was the view outside our hotel room. Nice eh? ahhhh, there just isnt anything like France.

I loved this arrangement......Formal hedges of tiny boxwood, but planted with wild flowers and grasses....perfect. Not too perfect and a bit shaggy but maintained in a border. I will be doing this one next spring. (if I get the time of course)....I think weeds would probably be in my boxwoods.

This little town's claim to fame is their "mussels" and believe me they sell ALOT of them. In Europe the stores used to put out shop signs, the streets are so narrow, that you could miss the storefront, so they would hang their shingle, (or sign) above the store. They are works of art, and I love them, many are still hanging. This one is not that old, but it is very ornate, with neon, iron and paint.

I told you they sell alot of mussels. This is a festival, and at night the bulldozers scoop the streets to pick up the shells.

I found this little flea tucked inside the courtyard of a building.

After 3 days of Mussels, and Flea Markets, we packed our bags, and my million carry-ons, of treasure from the fleas and landed in Nice.....(neice) The South of France....I had never been so I was anxious to see what it was like. It was looking good from the sky at sunset.

When we arrived at our hotel it was dark, it still looked beautiful, so I slept with the drapes open so I could wake up the view.

Oh my goodness....it was beautiful. Way more hills than I imagined.

Okay, okay, they have the French Riveria......But we have SANDY beaches....Yep. All the bronze people looking like an ad for tanning lotion walk like dorks down to the water because it hurts your feet so bad on all the rocks. It sounds beautiful though when the waves go in and out, It has the rocks tumbling back and forth so the waves have a great sound when they retreat. I dont do the beach thing...but I did have to go and get a rock, and just say I was in the french riviera.

I brought back two rocks, the arent tiny either, but I always grab a rock, and write where and when it was etc.....I know corny isnt it???

Why don't they cover that thing up?

Thee worst picture, the sun is blasting in my eyes and it is sooo hot. But It is gorgeous up there.

We climbed to the top of this mountain....well okay, maybe not a mountain but it felt like mount everest to me.

I wanted to find the old cemetary. It was fantastic. The views are amazing, and the master carvers and artisians that created the monuments were unbelievable . The Carving on this one depicts someone pushing out of the casket, but you notice there is an angel on top that is whispering to her, and pointing up to heaven.....such detail.

This site was probably the least ornate of them all, but my favorite. I love the simplicity of the zinc and rust grotto, covering a simple stone cross supporting a ring of carved flowers. Luv it !

The majolica flowers you see in flea markets and shows sometimes were originally on someones grave at one time. This cemetary has hundres of these beautiful flowers, that have been there for over a hundred years. That was common practice back then. They didnt have silk flowers that wouldnt die, so they made theirs out of glazed pottery. We should start that trend here in USA it would look so much nicer than the faded silks. Oh, but wait...they would all get stolen.
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These folks even died in style.....Look at this monument....WOW... stained glass windows iron gates ....I WANT IT! But not when I'm dead but when I am alive to enjoy it.

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This is so sad it the little girl who passed has a sculpture on her monument. I am sure her parents must have been heartbroken.

I love this one too.....It is made with two kinds of stone and marble. The detail of the woman writing on the wall. It is so classic.

You can just feel her pain..

This monument is sky high. It is only thanks to a zoom lens that I could actually see the details . It has a lifesize angel telling the rambunctious cherubs to keep it down and pointing to the grave as if they will wake the dead.

These are sculptures of the occupants of this monument. The detail is incredible , it is so amazing to see how people looked 100 years ago.

Back down into town thru winding little streets we found the local market.

This soap is fabulous. I have one for the next giveaway.

Have you ever seen tomatoes like this??? not me !

My favorite part of the zuccini is the blossom. Not many people know to eat it. But I can see it is popular faire in the South of France...YUM! battered and fried....

This little shop has been in this location for all those years....how many umbrellas can you sell?

amazing isnt it...

Even a candy stand looks prettier

And oh, the carousels....double decker not doubt....love love love this....I want one soooo bad. To big to even ship home.

This is another original store in its original location....Candy store, and "jellied fruits". Yep, price winning fruits that look like they are soaked in honey....super sweet.

EYE CANDY !

Monuments everywhere

The churches are wonderful....

This is my new favorite color combonation....muddy , mossy green, gold and black.

How skinny is your house?

We were just walking around the streets and I was taking shots of great doors and windows.

Okay, now the fleas.....YAY....enjoy !!!!!

Be still my heart....this one was a heartbreaker.......If It wasnt 1000 lbs. I would be hauling that in the overhead baby !!!

Not the only one who loses their head in the flea markets

It is just as pretty to look up...get a load of the scenery....Aaahhhh it is soooo beautiful. I often wonder if the people who live here, just take it for granted.?? They need to come to my town for a while, then they would appreciate this beauty.

Okay, we are now pulling into Paris....ahhhh the city of love. It is such a romantic city. Everything is beautiful.

This is just an over pass of a bridge. If you look close there is four incredible scenes in cast iron and in a huge scale.

This is the bridge of Love. You put your lock onto the bridge and throw the key into the river seine.....Never to be undone.

Why cant I write like this??? Even the menu is pretty.....

I am sworn to never put Mr. Wonderfuls picture in my blogs . I should call him Mr. Private. Anyway, I only posted his smile so he is still mysterious. He is gorgeous and patient as a saint with me as I roam stalls and look for hours for that "perfect" postcard. He is awesome.

This is our favorite resturaunt is Paris. We go everytime we are in town. It has a million dollar view of Notre Dame cathedral, and the food is great, and not a fortune either.

The infamous fleas

I had to buy this...it will be in our showrooms soon. This is the man I purchased it from...the sign is advertising a "hair dresser" we were laughing because he has NONE>

More showroom props and treasure heading our way

this is my favorite sculpture in all of the louvre.

When Napolean took over France, he moved into the Louvre. Which was the kings house at one time. He refurbished the apartments for he and Josephine for when they were in Paris. It is just a tiny little simple apartment.......yeah right !

He put an "N" on everything he could carve.

Thanks for visiting my whirlwind French tour. I will be posting french finds as give a ways all next month on Peacock Park Design FB.

French Label Give a Way

2011-09-14T18:26:00.010-05:00

BON JOUR,

I just returned home from a trip to France. I had such success finding treasures. I have some great pictures to post but until the dust settles around here, I know with all good intentions I wont be able to get it done for at least a couple of days.....Sooooooooo with that said, I found these fabulous Antique labels that are "new old stock" for those of you who aren't familiar with this term, it is any item that has never been used or in new condition, but is an antique.

I brought back alot of great "new old stock" items. I am nuts for this kind of stuff. I especially love paper products, labels ,receipts, menus you name it, and especially if they are in French.....Jackpot!!

This trio of Labels can be used for a myriad of things. I love these glued onto an old bottle, to look like it is their original intent. Or decopage under a plate of glass. You can decopage them onto any surface you see fit......A garden pot, a wooden box, Frame them for a great little collage, Or attach them to the front of a plain card for fantastic stationary....They have all the great design of an era when Labels were little works of art . Circa 1880 with the Gold metallic ink ,black fonts, florals and graphics are superb.

Leave a comment and your in the running for the give a way. I will draw the winner this weekend........Leave a comment on Peacock Park Design Facebook as well, and double your chances.

Good Luck
Gina

AND THE WINNER IS..........KATIE from Katies Rose Cottage. Please send me your address so I can get your treasure in the mail...!

Small World isn't it ............................

2011-08-29T19:22:00.006-05:00

This little mat was the reason for a recent email inquiring as to where they could puchase a bamboo mat that they had seen at a freinds house while visiting them in Maine. The Lady said she couldn't believe that here was a mat with the logo from the hotel that she and her husband had gotten married at in Paris years ago. She tracked us down, because she couldnt find another mat and apparently the store was nice enough to give her our information so she could hopefully find one in her area.

Well..............when I read that I was sooooooo thrilled to be able to send her one on the house.

Are you kidding , how often does one get a chance to do this? Not too many people are married that long anymore. While I didnt expect to get anything in return, I was really thrilled to get not one, but three photos of the original wedding portraits taken at the Hotel in Paris. I had to share with you her sweet note, and the photos as well..................

Enjoy, I know I did !!!

AAaaaaaaahhhhhh so so romantic isn't it?? Paris....what a way to celebrate your marriage.

Now they step across that threshold every nite, and hopefully it will remind them of the day they wed.

My Romantic Home.......................

2011-08-23T20:55:00.005-05:00

I am honored to also be featured in the September issue of "Romantic Homes" magazine. The issue is on newstands now. I hope you get a chance to get a copy.
The article is about my personal home, some decorating ideas that I incorporated into my home, and of course {Peacock Park Design} the home decor and gift line that I have the pleasure of creating.
This first shot is a misty summer morning at around 6 am. It is sooooo still out then, and smells like heaven.

The dining room is where the kids roller blade in a circle around the dining table, and back to the foyer, and around again....a regular racetrack......Believe it or not, nothing has ever been broken. I believe a house should be lived in, so even though it has some pretty formal rooms, it has seen ALOT of activity over the years....I have been in this home for 15 years now.

This room is a back bedroom that my husband calls the "packrat" room. it is because he says it looks like a french pack rat lives there, with all the treasure stashed in the closets and drawers...it is the stuff that "one day I will fix, create, duplicate or just save", and there is alot of it........shhhhh.....dont tell the history channel because "hoarders" producers will be knocking looking for a segment or two or three. Okay, so I need to purge. I will post an online estate sale one day, at least then I know people who appreciate it will get it. right?

This is the Kitchen, I did a ton of changes to this room, in the article it explains the fridge doors. My infamous opera girls....I just cant get enough of them. They are darn near life size here, and all decked out with three dimensional accessories. The sky I painted to look like a sunset and if you look close you can see the night stars lit in the sky...this was done with some tiny lights and fiber optics that I got for a steal, and thought I would give it a try...thank goodness it worked, because everyone thought I lost my mind on this one.

This is a portion of Mr. Wonderful's domain. He has his masculine den. This is where he will retreat to when he entertains.........me ..well you know how it goes......everyone gathers in the kitchen..

The library is loaded with old books, ledgers and novels...mixed with artwork and objet de' art. I like to mix it up. I also like pictures to hang on the "outside" of a bookcase so it gives it more dimension. It doesnt have to be a fabulous work of art, it could be a photo, or childrens drawing, or a great old advertisement...just frame it, and it instantly looks more important and meant to be there.

This is the parlour....well it used to be the dining room, but I switched it all around so the fireplace was in the dining room. I figured it was a better decision than to try to put a fireplace into the parlour right? This room goes off onto a terrific curved balcony with iron rail and flower boxes that wrap the perimeter. Aaahhhh. all the more to water. I think I might put in catcus and succulents next year, because my chores are getting too lengthy every day. It over looks the pool, which I might add now has over 50 koi fish in it. I decided I didnt have time to swim in it, or take care of it, so I turned it into a huge 15 ft. deep fish pond. The fish love it and it is amazing how huge they get when they have that much room to grow.

Well I hope you enjoyed my tour de jour....and if you are interested in seeing more you can find it on the newsstands.........

Thank you again Romantic Homes, I truly appreciate your feature.
BON JOUR !

VICTORIA visits CAMP PEACOCK

2011-08-12T00:32:00.004-05:00

Well the September issue of VICTORIA is just hitting the news stands. This issue is my favorite. These images are the extra shots featured on the Victoria website. The magazine has a whole different series of photos. This shot is with Dinky. He is my miniature donkey. He is decked out in his antique mail bag, holding maps for the big adventure.

These baskets are such a great seller. I just love the paper labels against the willow.

There is nothing more romantic than an outdoor bath, and by candlelight no less.....Aaahhhhhh
calgon take me away.....
(Notice the hot water tank on this turn of the century bath....it is fueled by an oil light to heat the water then dispersed through a spigot) Love it !!!!

This is the porch of the tent. I love the scalloped canvas that surrounds this tent. I made these tents as a limited edition for the line. I just think they turned out fantastic. I hope others like it too.

I love anything with a crown, even a lantern.....

Oh, more crowns.........

The sound of a wind up turntable, with an old vinyl record, is truly terrific in the wilderness. So Indiana Jonesey dont cha think???? Oh, and that sweet little canvas parasol for two......Well that is an antique tractor umbrella that was used to keep the sun off the farmer as he plowed the fields.....Yes, I am going to reproduce this wonderful treasure in a reclaimed canvas with a terrific french graphic. I just love the size...it is perfect for a table for two, or for a picnic in the wild.

Christmas in July.......??????

2011-08-02T21:11:00.003-05:00

Okay, I know that it has been record heat this summer. I for one, LOVE the heat. It is a bit difficult to get into the Christmas spirit while the sun is scorching everything in sight, and the flowers need to be watered at least twice a day, or the droop like they wont make it until morning. Well.......that is just what I have been doing. Getting into the Holiday spirit. I am finalizing all the new designs for the Christmas line that I have finally decided to include into my repetoire of goodies for Peacock Park Design.
I am a bit nervous that it will be well recieved. You can bet it wont be your traditional red, and green Christmas.
Yes, I do plan on using alot of vintage musical images for all kinds of things। I love old paper and vintage scraps and bits of paper, so I want to make ornaments, wreaths and all kinds of decorations that reflect a handmade vintage holiday. And of course European influences will be everywhere..especially PARIS. My favorite city on the Planet....there is nothing like the Champs (Main st.) during the holidays.

There is something about old St. Nick. I like the vintage images of him. I think the line is coming together nicely, everything from the trees, to lights, to ornaments have a unique twist on them. I cant wait till all the samples come in, so I can see if they are transforming into what I envision. I am doing alot with old chipped up ceiling tin. Everything from hanging ornaments, to standing deer. Even the trees will be unique.

I wont make you wait until Christmas to see the goodies, but I will debut the entire line at the January markets. That is what is so strange about this business......I am designing it all in the summer, then after you just put away all the stuff in the house, the tinsel, trees, ornaments and stockings, I then go to the showrooms and decorate for Christmas............wow, I hope all you customers who have stores are still in the mood for Christmas by then. Most stores buy their Christmas in January. So I will be ready for them when they come, and Hopefully you will bring a little piece of Peacock Park Design home for the Holidays.

Doin up Dallas .......

2011-07-06T13:39:00.035-05:00

Well Kelly and I arrived in Dallas to an empty showroom. We knew we had 5 days to pull together a showroom for market. So we did have alot of "proppage" this is what we call "props".
We go "Proppin", instead of "shoppin" when we get into town. Just look at this big open space....YIKES!!!!

after a little architectural interest is addded it started looking like "home" to us. It was getting that wonderful flea market feeling we feel so comfortable in.

If you have never been to Texas in the summer then let me just tell you its H*O*T.... This is an example of an apple that I brought with me to work. I left one in the car, and the other one was in a bag we brought to work........Can you tell it is LITERALLY a baked apple. I mean it was cooked. It was actually hot to the touch when I picked it up and as mushy as it could be........I couldnt believe it....so YES it is hot in texas in the summer. Pack a lunch and leave it in your car to cook, then by lunch it will be ready....who needs a microwave anyway?

This is an architectural piece that we thought would add some interest to the drab entrance into the office, and soon to be kitchen.

Okay, I always say you can make it happen. Well with that in mind I could NOT leave these treasures behind at a hidden flea market that we just so luckily stumbled upon. I know, I know....dont you just hear the "Sanford and Son" theme song playing in the background.

Okay , Then there is that little issue that I want to have live plants in the showroom for market week. These weeping trees were just the ticket. You know that song......The ant that cant etc...etc....well...l.l.l.l.l.l I just HAD to get them....at such a closeout price of 17 bucks a piece, I was NOT leaving without them...I figured we were only 6 miles from the mart building and I will just drive with my flashers on.....I wished we had two cars so Kelly could drive in front of me with the yellow flashers and a sign that said "Wide Load". Anyway with my right tires scraping the curb and the left side hanging clear into the other lane, we did make it back to market....although Kelly had her sunglasses on hoping noone would recognize her.

It is starting to look alot like home. We found that great old screen door for our storage room, and the row of childs desks is soooooo cute, and hard to get into I might say, but it is so worth the look....you know what I say, Form BEFORE function.

I had to bring the carriage to Texas for Petes sake.......and the horse is an antique saddlery display horse with cast iron legs, and let me tell you , he weighs a TON.

The Peacock Antique sign is sentimental....it is the sign from my antique store in Michigan. Kelly dug it out of the dirt behind the building, and said "Look what I found !" I LOVE IT>

Look at how good the new wall is in the office....luv luv luv it.

Here is the metal facade that I found in Round Top last spring....it has its new home. We created a little garden area around it.

Well, Kelly and I were working away, and actually saying how hungry we were when we got a phone call. It was our dear dear dear freinds Todd and Charlie. They are the owners and creators of a wildly successful home decor business called "Park Hill Collection". I am sure you have seen their products somewhere around your town. They are a wonderful.

Well, anyway, they say........come down in 5 minutes. (there showroom is 2 floors below us).

When Kelly and I got off the escalator we smelled garlic, and said to each other, you have to be kidding, it smells fabulous. After days of eating fast food, cookies, or anything that takes the pain out of your stomach , to be spoiled with a wonderful "sit down " meal was pure luxury.......

Now let me tell you....these two never, I repeat Never miss a detail....just look at this sit down dinner complete with candlelight.....I am so blessed to call them my friends.

Oh, yes, water in mason jars, and of course a raspberry.....

Doesnt this look great !! all artwork, dishes and furnishings are all part of their line.

Okay back to reality, we have alot of work to do.....

It looks like an old garage door, but it is just panels of metal that I brought with me from home, and ran them horizontally instead of the usual vertical.

This is the makings of the garden area.

This is an incredible store front from a perfumerie in Paris. I had intentions to put it as a room divider inside my home, but I never have, so I thought it would make a great entrance into the showroom. There was quite a bit of interest in it, so I am not sure how long it will stay there, as we sell most the antiques that we put in our showrooms, and the stores come early to tag the ones for them.

Something about top hats and old bodyforms that I love.

There is Brian in the background....Mr. Talent. He helped me build in all the big stuff. If you ever need someone to hire for build out, hes your go to guy. It is so nice to explain what you want to do, and have them understand what you want, and not think your nuts because its just alot of old junk.

This is one of my newest items in the line....It is suede printed in french labels. There is a throw or wall hanging and pillows to go with......Oh, I love the smell of suede.

One of my personal favorites is my "paper paradise" it is alot of items recreated using antique scraps reciepts, and emphera. Lanterns wreaths, roses ribbons and more......I love the color palette.

This is an amazing pony is an antique that I dragged up from a Michigan Antique Show.

I am posting this from my hotel room in Atlanta, we are just finishing up the Atlanta show and it has been a grueling but fun market here as well. I hope you enjoyed the tour of Dallas, and I will promise you that I will get the Atlanta showroom tour posted as soon as I can catch my breath....

As usual I appreciate all your questions and comments. Thanks for reading my ramble......

Gina

Where's Waldo???

2011-06-04T21:21:00.010-05:00

Have you ever heard of those books called "wheres Waldo?" Well, if you haven't they are books that have a million things going on in a sketch, and you search for Waldo.

Well...........This month I feel like him. It is like, Where the heck is Gina. It seems like this past month is a blur. I have been so many places, its nuts. Well in the midst of all this the first day of spring arrives. Then it is time to plant the flowers. Look at my urns !!!! YUK< this is what a winter will do for your yard folks. You who have no winter are so fortunate. So I figure, hey I have a quick hour, I will race up to my local nursery get some flowers and simply fly around and get some of my planting done........

Well as you can see, at my house this is not always as easy as it may seem. I have to have a fan club. Hey, don't get me wrong. It is TRULY nice to be loved and appreciated, but this is rediculous !

Isn't this crazy....yes, this is only what you see in my camera phone, there is a few more of the menagerie out of the lenses view.

Cats , dogs, sheep, donkeys oh my............Yes, Ellie mae is in her glory !! I do love these lugs I gotta say.....My husband, well that is another subject. If he threatens to have lambchops one more time, I will blow a fuse. He cant stand it, because they wont let you in the house, they block the doors, etc.......They truly are the welcoming commitee.

It is amazing what a few flowers can do for improvements isnt it???

The next morning I set out for Atlanta. I met the gals from VICTORIA magazine again, and this time we went to my friends farm. They were thrilled with the shoot. It will probably be in the next spring issue. I will of course keep you all posted.

I will tell you what is incredible....all the flowers and plants are REAL, yes, REAL....this is not for show ....this is how they roll. NO fake stuff in this beautiful abode.

This was our bedroom, Nice eh???? Yes, I got Mr. Wonderful to come along....I couldnt believe it, but last minute he caved, and he was glad he did. Dan and Randy were MORE than gracious hosts. We love them so much.

I know, I know, rediculous isn't it ?? Just every inch is perfectly perfect !!

This was the tacky view we had to endure through our bedroom window....oh, it was hard to take, but I was a trouper and made the best of it !

I had so much fun helping stage this for the magazine shoot. It is going to be a smashing issue, I cant wait......You will be so taken with the beauty this home has.

everywhere you look is something great to look at.

I dare you to find a weed.....it is pristine. I love love love this place. Oh, so casually elegant.

Breakfast on the veranda was magical.

If you love their style, they also have a wonderful store in atlanta Buckhead, called Boxwood Gardens. Fabulous store !

Just hanging out in the main hall.

After I got home from there, I worked at the warehouse for two days, to get ready for the warehouse sale, but I had a wedding of some great friends to attend. It was an amazing wedding. It was on the beach in St. Augustine Florida...If you have never been there, GO.

It is the oldest town in America. It was settled in 1523. WA-A-A-AY before the pilgrims.

This was the venue for the ceremony....How cool is this? Ahhhhh, just the perfect breeze, waves crashing, it was very sweet and romantic, and the bride was beaming...They are an adorable couple . Guess how they met????? E-Harmony !! yep....that commercial is not a bunch of bunk. People do really meet and fall in love. Isnt that cool? So any of you thinking it is not for you.Well........I think its worth a shot.....You really can meet your soul mate.

Okay, no, I am not sick, it is just another ghastly picture of me. But this one is taken of me standing on THEE oldest street in AMERICA.....Isnt that amazing......WOW, think about it, that is history people!

Of course I am in love with history , so I have to check out any and all the original buildings and monuments I can find. This is the gallows that are in the jail.

This is how they looked 100 years ago. It is sick to think that people would line up, men, women and children to watch some poor soul get hanged. wow, what entertainment eh? It makes me shiver to think if my kids had to witness anything like that. They usually held the hangings on weekends so that noone would miss it.

If you were caught doing the unthinkable like spitting on the sidewalk, or looking cross at the ladies, then you would be left to hang from a tree for 3 days in the "guilded cage" that would be so that the townsfolk could look at you and humiliate you. They would hang for generally 2 or 3 days with no relief for restroom duties, they had to do it in the view of the onlookers.

Next was the wealthy set. They wore these revealing suits to swim.

At the time this was the largest indoor pool of its day. It was in the hotel, and quite the retreat I might add. It was really for the VERY wealthy. These hotels were not booked like we do now. You couldnt get it for one night. You would be charged for the "season" Jan thru april. and it was per night, for 4 months. Regardless if you stayed one night or the entire block. It was equivilent to the average mans income for 4 years for the stay.

The pool has since closed, but they filled it in, and made it an antique shopping area, as well as a cafe. I was glad to see they didnt demolish it, like the original idea was.

Okay, so I am not a boater.....

Then after I returned home from florida, I frantically tagged and sorted goodies to sell at the

warehouse sale.
I also sneaked a day trip to Dallas to check out the new showroom, and pick up some new antiques and fixtures to get it ready for market next month. I will leave next week with Kelly to start build out on the new space. It will be great I hope......

The warehouse sale continues until tomorrow, then we will organize the goodies for pick up to be trucked to Dallas for the new showroom. We have soooooooooo many new treasures. I cant wait, I just hope there is room for the products after all the great display finds I have aquired.

Have a super summer. and come see us at the markets.

Gina

xoxo

Happy Mothers Day !!!!!

2011-05-08T12:14:00.003-05:00

Happy Mothers Day to all you mothers out there. Mothers day is not for just the women who have had biological little humans to raise.....But women who have made an impact in anyone and anything that lives. Think of the women that you have loved, known or admired in your life. I am sure they have had an impact on you to strive to be better, prove to be wrong, or simply want to "be". This is what Mother means. Someone who cares and pushes you in her own little way to become a better you, allow you to fall, and be waiting to pick up the pieces, like a bird that kicks the babies out of the nest. I am sure it is not easy but is neccessary for them to fend for themselves.
A mother is someone who simply has a nurturing soul. You can be young or old.
My daughter is the best mother. She is mother right now, to a slew of fallen babies of springs mishaps. From tadpoles, to robins eggs, bunnis and lambs. She is mothering them all with kind compassion and caring.
So here is to all you mothers out there, children or no children you deserve this day. Please watch this video and you can really see the power of a mother.
A mother is not predjudice, judging, or mean.......just love.
And of course to my mom !!! who of course happens to be the best in the world. Yes, she prayed for a girl.....poor thing got a tomboy from the start. Mud pies, bullfrogs, bugs, jeans, and never brushing my hair. I didnt wear a dress until I was out of high school, I had constant art projects unfinished and waiting for just the perfect inspiration to finish them. And oh, my continuous stream of pets....and she is ALLERGIC. (thats a good mom eh?) Well mom, here is to you, to let me be ME!!! as strange and crazy as I was. Always different, and danced to the beat of my own drum, which was so far off of what you were. Classy, stylish, and beautiful. Yes, I am the polar opposite, but I couldnt have asked for a better mother, inspirational, hard working, and beautiful. You are the best mother, and grandmother that this family could ever ask for....Thank you for giving me, Me !!! I love you.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G6aJC3zYMQ
YOU MUST WATCH THIS !!!!!

Texas Texas Texas.....................

2011-04-11T12:03:00.013-05:00

Is this the perfect Texan welcome for me???? I can't think of anything more different combined to make such beauty......Yes...Paris is My favorite place. I must say though that Round top Texas is another favorite spot. Something about the people, hospitality and pastures that just make you fall in Love. The familiar road to where I stay. This is the canopy of trees that is down the lane to Betty and Dell's house. I stay with them when I am in town. They have a wonderful retreat called" trails west.

My favorite part about the Spring show is the Bluebells, and they were everywhere....they look like tiny delphiniums .

Okay now for the good stuff....this is just some shots of treasure abound..... amazing how an old tin pot filled with a bouquet looks so divine isnt it.

What a great idea for any coffee table. Get yourself a gallon of chalkboard paint and cover an old coffee table for the kiddies to play on. I think adults will have more fun with it though. Keep boxes of colored chalk in the little drawer if you have one.

Just a pile of metal junk turned into art. No you know what to do with that old plane you had as a kid....put it in a display !

I know, I know, I love this one too......BUT... the price....geez.... I think it was over 600 dollars, but it was complete with all the pieces and hard to find. So I have a picture to remember it by.

If this boat wasn't 1200 dollars it would be sitting in the center of my Dallas Showroom with glass across the seats for thee best display ever ! It had a flat bottom so it would be easy to make a stand for it. oh, well....c'st la vie.

This did come home with me though....it is an old ice box. It has absolutely NO paint, and is in just a wonderfully worn zinc color metal. It will be my new magnet display for the new magnet sets I have coming. All with french scenes and graphics. They will look super on it.

This old icebox is the king of ice boxes. But with a pricetag of 10,000. I had to pass. Oh, I would have loved that one in the showroom too, but it is over the budget thats for sure.

This gal is certainly one who wears what she sells. She has burlap pants, that she says are lined and quite comfy. Her whole boutique is in a tiny airstream trailer. Inside is a fitting room and garments, feathers, and fluff....She is very creative.

Oh, these are TO DIE FOR !! Have you ever had a home made Ding Dong???? Well another first for me. Yum, Yum....and the sign is just as fabulous.

I saw alot of Peacock Park Design products in Texas. I was glad to hear that it is selling for the stores. This is a great use for our crown. I love it as a candle topper.

This is a display from Leftovers that is a store in Brenham, about 40 minutes from Round Top. They are super talented and have a great eye for design.

Look who I found loafing at Leftovers !! Its Rick from Marburger Farms. He looks pretty relaxed considering his show "Marburger" opens the very next moring.

I took a couple of freinds out to see the "outpost" it is the most fabulous ranch that Ms. Shabby Chic aka: Rachel Ashwell has aquired this past year.

Rachel gave us a wonderful tour of the place. It is a slice of heaven in Texas . We had a nice afternoon with Rachel and her wonderful assistant Jamie. It was so good to see them both again.

There are many different buildings but this is the kitchen in the main pavillion house that has a large room with comfy couches to relax on, and a room of tables and chairs to have the largest of barbeques.

This is one of the guest cabins......with of course...Shabby Chic bedding and big fluffy down comforters.

Me, Rachel and the dog named Pearl.

another view of another building at Rachels Ranch...she affectionately calls it "The Prarie". She always loved "little house on the prarie" when she was young, so now this is her rendition.

this is a booth at Marburger

This is a very rare site.....There are very few men at Round Top. The town is over run by women, so when you do find them , they are usually perched together, so they can stick together and not feel so outnumbered.

This is Magnolia Pearl Mayhem.....it is a phenomenon......if you can see the crowds inside the booth, all clammering for a piece of the dream. Robin and her husband John live, work and play the "magnolia pearl" lifestyle. They are genuine sweet people who dont have a spiteful fiber in their beings.....They deserve absolutely all the success and more that comes their way......

Robin make Charlie Chaplin shoes, and lace skirts chic.

They buy it by the armloads......It is a Texas specialty here at Marburger.

This is one of the wonderful creations from "WILLOWS NEST" They are an awesome team. One who decorates (linda) and one who creates (ludmil). He is a master of metal.

I fell in love with these lights...they look like large blossoms, but they are made of old speakers from a victrola record player....how creative is that ??

I saw alot of old paint brushes and palettes. I was glad to see them. I collect them myself, and have had paintings on palettes with the brush left intact full of paint displayed with the painting on the palette. They are currently in the line for Peacock Park Design

This is a piece of art made of all thing from nature. She covered an old light fixture with moss, branches, lichen, twigs , dried mushrooms and taxidermy to create the most whimsical of fixtures.

One of many trips in my rented pick up to load up my treasures. This building facade will hopefully become an arbor in the Dallas showroom. I have many different ideas for it....I will just have to see once it gets there, how I decide to use it...but I love it. One piece of architectural

salvage can change a new space into something more established with character.

It just goes to show you that truly one persons trash is another ones treasure. You can make an art piece out of anything if you try. There is beauty in just about everything around if you just look hard enough...

Bon Jour

Gina Xo

I will also have a complet blog on Marburger Farms at http://www.marburgerfarms.blogspot.com/ In a few days it will be up hopefully....check it out.

SPRING Forward..........

2011-03-21T16:46:00.004-05:00

Well.....it is official. The first day of spring. I just can't stand it, I feel like I have been waiting for a year for spring to arrive, but then on the other hand, it is a blink of an eye. It seems like the older I get the faster the years go. They are just zooming these days. Anyway you look at it, time is precious. Sometimes it moves slow.....like at a bad movie, you keep thinking..."This HAS to get better". And Sometimes it just flies. Like walking through a flea market....The time just zips...I know why they say time flies when your having fun. Some ways to tell time are beautiful, whimsical, artistic, and fun.....all the gears on all the clocks, all keep spinning at the EXACT same time. Isn't that amazing.....How do they do that??? Think about it, and they have been ticking for hundreds of years......
I am leaving for Texas in just a few days, and again I cannot believe that it has been 6 short months since I was last there. I just love the vibe of Texas, the people, the food, the weather....you name it. I will be again blogging about all the amazing finds and treasure I uncover at the flea markets.

We have BIG news....Peacock Park is moving to a huge new showroom in the World Trade Center in Dallas, so I will be searching for some really unique and big display pieces to build into the space. I hope all you store owners will pop in and say hey.

(I love this little clock. I bought it years and years ago at an auction in Chicago....and the enamel planet with stars that the putti is holding, is actually a clock, so on a desk anyone advancing would see the sculpture while the owner could tell the time.)

I love this crazy clock....on the hour the little gnome will hit the bell with his trusty hammer.

I have a fetish about architectural models, and this on in the form of a church has 4 clocks that go around the bell tower. If you take off the lid they are actually pocket watches that someone years ago built little spots for them to sit.

I also collect painters palettes......so this clock was an easy decision at the Paris Flea market for me. Look how they put the dabs of paint on the edge .

Oh, micro mosaic...who doesn't love or at least appreciate the work involved in this art form. It must take patience of steel to put these items together.......My eyes are too bad, my mosaic would definitely be "modernistic"....eh hem, er, that is what I will say anyway......

oh, a peacock......how did he get there?? a sterling silver bird I found recently at a second hand store......30 bucks....love him !

More mosaic clocks......

This is sort of Egyptian revival....that was a huge rage years back, when the "obelisk" was given to Paris. It still stands there today...Napoleon was instrumental in finding the Rosetta stone too....Imagine, if he didn't...they probably would still be trying to figure out hieroglyphics....(I am sure I have butchered that spelling)

Well I hope y'all have time to accomplish what you want to.

Time to stop and really smell the roses...or the spring rain.

Time to enjoy the drive, and not try to make the light.

To be able to not worry about "what time it is"

I will have some Killer pics next week I am sure....wish me luck, and the timing to find what I am looking for....of course I don't know what that is until I see it..

XOXO

Gina

Is there an ATM anywhere ???????

2011-02-22T18:48:00.006-06:00

I am entering this post from my hotel in New Delhi India. By the miracle of technology I can take photos, and share them from half way around the world within minutes. It is amazing to me. Last night I went to where the locals go. I was definately sticking out like a sore thumb here, but this is where I ALWAYS like to go when I visit any new town ......I want to see the culture. And Yes....even in a culture that looks like there is absolutely NO american influence, there stands a McDonalds. The only difference is that their hamburgers are not beef. Beef is sacred here. So they are either veggie, or chicken.

I adored this bull. He was so gentle and sweet, I looked everywhere for some grass to feed him, but I had no luck, so just a scratch behind the ears was all he got from me.

If only I could have brought this sweet angel home. She followed me everywhere......her hair bleached from the sun, and feet filthy, she was still adorable and sweet. I bought all her beads, and then created a mob scene. They must have said, hey this crazy light haired woman loves beads.....soooooooo they came in droves.

I went into McDonalds, bought hamburgers Or...whateverburgers......as many as I could carry, loaded a bag and passed them out on the street. I dont know how they can eat them they are sooooo spicy. I couldnt even hardly swallow one piece and these little babies would eat it. I taught them the peace sign, and visited for a while, then had to move on. If I could have found an ATM I think I would come home BROKE. Next time I am coming loaded with treasure....toys, clothes, etc.

Look at this sweet angels face.....Oh, my goodness. I fell head over heals in love with the people. They are so grateful with whatever they have, it makes me feel so guilty that I complain of the "uncomfortable" ride in the long plane ride. These sweet people can only imagine what it is like to go into that giant metal bird in the sky.

This is street sweets.....It is kind of like our "elephant ears" dough fried out of a tube in grease and instead of sugar and cinnamon, it is almost like honey. It is really sweet, and greasy at the same time.

This is the local market, it webs for miles, and is crowded with people selling food, clothes, trims, wedding decorations, you name it.

Then I went to I think the most incredible restaurant I have ever been to in all my travels. The food was BEYOND amazing. It was in this retreat that is 200 years old, from some wealthy casonova cat that lived in Delhi some 200 years ago. This plaque describes a bit of his history, I nicknamed him JOHN BOOBY....of course not pronounced this way, but this guy seemed like a real "boob". I am going to google this guy and see if I can find what he really looked like. He did have good taste in retreats I might say. It is behind a big stone wall, and through a gate. Once you enter, it feels as though you have been transported to a magical place far from the dusty streets of Delhi.

This is the most incredible idea. Instead of the typical olive oil etc, for bread dipping , you are presented with this stone mortar and pedestal that is filled with oil herbs, red onions grilled.(The onions here in India are not left to grow large like we are accustomed to , they are pulled tiny)

This is the courtyard of the retreat. This is a banyan tree that is 175 years old. It is fantastic.

This is a mound of shoes of patrons entering the shop stall. The streets are very dusty so you leave your shoes at the door.

I can't interpret this sign, but it is a peaceful message from a wise old man. The people are gentle sweet and kind.

This is the entrance to a Temple. You must leave your shoes in a room , they wash your feet before entering....

Yeah, I know this is a wicked picture of me, but I wanted to show you, there is a basket of fabric and your head must be covered, so you pull one out and tie it on your head, then return it when you leave. Orange is DEFINATELY not my color.

This is the interior of the temple, it is solid real gold. The Preist is reciting from the "book". all messages of peace and love. This is a seik temple. The are the "defenders or warriors" of the people.

Here is the incredible thing about the temple. There is a large room in back, which is stricly volunteers, and anyone, I mean Anyone, any religoun can come and get a meal. It is a fantastic generous gesture. They feed so many people each and every day. When you go to the alter, you are given a blessed flower from the priest....usually a marigold, however, he gave me a "special " flower of a rose bud. A lot of meaning in a tiny bloom.

My trip to India has been wonderful and educational, I am so blessed to be able to see these different cultures, and experience the differences. It also makes me realize how incredibly lucky and blessed I am to live where I live, have a roof over my head, food at my disposal, and a warm clean bed each and every night. Those words we heard growing up when we didnt clean our plate ( do you know how many kids in India are starving?" Is truer than you can ever imagine, and are now a reality to me. Look around you today, and realize how incredibly lucky you are....there are thousands of people who feel blessed and thank god daily for what they have, and it is virtually nothing.

How can I begin to Thank You !!!

2011-02-06T18:06:00.011-06:00

This Hotel Sign that is a new product for Peacock Park Design, is all tooooo familiar. We have been living in hotels since the first week in January. We went from Atlanta, to Dallas, to New York City. I already posted about the Atlanta show, so I thought I could fill you in on the "road show" as we call it. These two shows are "temporary" booths, which means, you have to set it up and tear it down all within 4 or 5 days time. We usually take 2 days to set up, and then tear down after show close at 3pm. Sometimes we are there until 2 or 3 in the morning. We dont move as fast by the time we tear down because we are absolutely exhausted. Thank goodness for Kelly, because I certainly couldnt do it alone. We also have show help that gets into the act, but it is a daunting job. All this has to be put back into boxes, pallets, and shrink wrap.

This is our space in Dallas, Once we took all our pallets out of the booth, I took a photo to show what we start with.

This is the start of our "structure". This is new to us this year. Bob the builder built it for me, and Kelly and I painted it to give it that "distressed flea market look."

This is it after. The idea is to make it look like individual French Flea stalls. Each stall had its own vibe or theme......The garden area, the manly room, the girlie room etc....

This is way out side the box for me. I can't believe it myself.....RED????? Yes, I did do some things in red. It is not bright red. It is antiquated washed out, muddy red. So therefore I think its okay. I call this vignette "carnivale" It reminds me of a wonderful old carousel.

These are my new palette paintings. I actually did something like this when I first started the line, but now I added a little bit of dimension. These are actual paintings, and I have the artist actually put the paint on the palette, and use it from there. Then when they are done, I have the brush mounted with old wire to the palette.

I collect old palette paintings from Europe so these are my rendition of that wonderful art form I love.

The girls who paint these for me, are absolutely adorable, and I am always so thrilled when I get to send them pictures of customers with their works of art.

This is a fountain that is outside the mart building. I am an absolute animal nut, and I think this sculpture is fantastic. I would love, love, love to have this fountain in my yard. One day maybe I can make a tabletop version in sandstone.

We called this the "manly" room.

This amazing Valance is one that I purchased in Paris at a Flea Market. I adore this one, and it fit perfectly over our new structure.

A view looking down the isle can give you an idea of the "flea market" feel that we were after.

everyone asks if we have a "plan". No we just figure it out when we get to each show, because it always is changing.

my new stage. I just love this new design. It will be so great when I get all the "kits" done that will have a different background with new players for every occassion and season.

I need to get busy. I wish there were more hours in a day.

This fantastic scale is an antique, but I am going to produce a version of this. Can't you just imagine how cute this will be in a kitchen filled with onions or fruit, or on a porch with plants, or in your bathroom with towels????? Ohhhhh so many options. Stay tuned for that one, it hopefully will be ready by summer.

We were honored and happy to recieve the booth award for the third time in Dallas. Thank you judges "whoever you are" they are secret people who judge I think.

I really am considering changing my name to STORMY. Everywhere I went there was a storm to follow. In Atlanta, the ice came and shut down the city. In Dallas there was record cold and ice, and then in New York......Oh, my there was 12 inches of snow in 4 hours. This is Broadway during morning rush hour. It is unbelievable. And just think, they can't just shovel it away, because you need to get to the curbs and everyone walks.........soooo what do they do???? they have big bulldozers come in and scoop it all up, fill the backs of trucks, and dump it into the river. It helps that Manhattan is an island.

This is a bronze statue of an owl hiding underneath all that snow.

The storm delayed everything, including getting our freight. But it did make it, so this is our space this time in New York. It was shaped like an "L". Here is the tricky thing.....We have one less booth than we had in Dallas, and the complete show traveled here. So now we have to put it ALL in less space. YIKES !!! We were LOADED.....too loaded , but what can you do right??? We made the best of it, and stacked and packed. Pictures were layered. Customers thought it was a genius way to display art, we explained, we liked it, but we really were trying to make more room on our precious wall space, or what little of it we had.

Here we go again !

I have a wonderful friend who manages a terrific Resturaunt in Detroit. He saves his corks for me. I love them, I had baskets full of them. Thank you again Nino....I really appreciate it.

I always bring lots of antique props for display. Usually they are for sale, but there is a few that I just can't part with. These Antique leather clown shoes are one of them. Aren't they fantastic..... Well the truth is my husband bought these in an antique store for my Dad for Christmas, he said it is because he is such a clown. He is....we laughed till we cried when he opened them. There was a great love letter that went with them describing how he searched for a special gift, for a special guy etc, etc....it was a riot. It just so happens that my dad is my husbands best friend and vise versa. You can't ask for anything better can you??? The are total teasers though and always are trying to "one up" the other one.

I love this worn wood clock,. I love the deep turquoise color, and it runs on 2 AA batteries, and keeps perfect time.

I love the lanterns and all the new tissue paper goodies. So did my customers.

I still sell a ton of crowns, hey, who doesn't love a crown right?

Our mascot....these are beyond beautiful....don't worry, they passed of natural causes.

I cannot begin to thank all of you !! The store owners who have purchased from me in the past, the shops that just became part of the Peacock Flock, and all the customers of the stores who put my items in your homes. It is so great to hear from all the stores that the items are selling....yes, selling..I am THRILLED. It is one thing to get orders, but to get re-orders. Wow, that means that other people like it too!! My goal is to design some great looking fun decor, and have it affordable, so we can all change it up as often as we like, and not feel like we have to live with it, because it costs a fortune right??

So again, I am Thankful for everyone of you for reading my blog, following me on my creative journey and giving me your wonderful kind words of encouragement.

THANK YOU , THANK YOU, THANK YOU .

Merci , Merci, Merci Beacoup !!!!

Gina

xoxoxo

Icy Atlanta

2011-01-23T18:29:00.011-06:00

Well I am home for a day inbetween shows. We went to Atlanta just before the ice hit and shut the town down !! It was unbelievable. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING was open. It was crazy, people trying to find food. Even the hotels were running out. They didnt have any staff to cook it.

But withing 3 days, it was business as usual and the show went on.....The buyers were upbeat, and positive. We had the best market EVER !!! The response to the new products was a definate thumbs up !! I am doing a quick post to show you the layers of goodies that were in the showroom.

The antique clown shoes were a real hit !

It definately looks like a flea market in here !!

My new printed paper goods were the rage. I think they were on just about every order.

This is a glass cake plate and server in vintage script.

This is the new opera stage I have cooked up. The background slides up and there will be "kits" that have various themed backgrounds with the cut out figures to compliment the scenes. Christmas, New years, etc. etc.....

This says Fresh Eggs in French.

Thank you EVERYONE for your sweet comments, enthusiasm to the Peacock Park Design and your orders.

You all make it possible for me to continue to do what I love.......CREATE !!!!

Merci Beacoup !

Gina

And to all a Good Night !

2010-12-24T20:36:00.006-06:00

It is Christmas Eve. and my daughter and niece spent the afternoon wrapping over 100 presents to deliver to the nursing home in our area.
The girls donned their Gay apparel (Santa hats) and loaded their sleigh ( my trunk ) and off we went. My son was the pack mule who carried the loot that the girls so carefully marked either man or woman. The women got an assortment of tapestry wall hangings, pillows and Christmas Crochet doilies. The men on the other hand got a pair of warm thick winter socks.
This is my daughter spreading her cheer to a lovely resident.

The people were thrilled to just have a visitor. But they did love to open those gifts.

This adorable lady was so tickled with her wall hanging, we went down to the lunchroom, and she had it on the table with her, she said she wanted to look at it more. How cute is she????

Her proud new possession.

This is a tapestry cushion but this woman wanted to put it on the wall to see it better.

Sometimes it is so easy to make someones day............ Although Little do they know, they truly made our day more than we made theirs.

Happy Happy Holidays.

Ephemera Decor

2010-12-11T12:04:00.012-06:00

I have gotten so many emails looking for these products to come out. So I am going to give away boxes of them when they arrive. If you follow the blog, and if you haven't already, then add this blog to your sidebar favorites on your blog, if you dont have one, then leave a comment. You will be in the drawing. I will give away to a dozen wonderful people. Good Luck.

What is Ephemera??? It actually is derived from the latin language, and means not to be kept a day. So the written notes, ledgers, ads etc.....all those wonderful pieces of paper that were never intended to be saved, or used again, are now being repurposed for a myriad of things.

I happen to be a HUGE fan of this medium. I use old documents and ledger papers, reciepts, advertisements, and labels. I am soooooooooo excited about the new items that I just designed for Peacock Park Design. I used old letters, and reciepts, billheads and ledgers, to be put on tissue paper garlands, flowers, and lanterns. They turned out amazing.

I trimmed this little tree in my studio workspace with old embellishments that I found at the Paris Flea Market. I also found a box of old letters at a house sale, and put them all over the tree, and in a wreath wrapped around my cherub statue.

You really can decorate with anything. It doesnt need to be high priced ornaments. I think it can be charming with a little imagination.

I also pick up these antique ornaments when ever I see them. I dont know but something about the old ornaments, with their speckles, and spots that give them that extra oompf. I use ornaments to fill up bowls everywhere.

Happy Holidays to Everyone !!

Also, be sure to follow us on Facebook ( Peacock Park Design) we have so many give-a-ways.

I have gotten so many emails regarding the availability of the new paper items. They should be available by early February. You can email or comment to find how to purchase, or find a store near you !! I am just so happy you like it too !!!!!

Frozen Flowers

2010-12-04T13:47:00.006-06:00

Well it is official. Winter is here. The clocks fell back, the dark early nights, the freezing temps. and the COLD !! I really completely utterly cant stand the cold. It was just last week I took these pictures. Now there is a thin layer of snow which for some reason, even though the temperature is the same, it just seems colder for some reason.
This plant seems to be hanging onto summer the best it can, in a full out display of huge bell shaped flowers, it looks terrific, and makes it seem not so dismal.

Then there is the Kale. I love kale, it grows in such an amazing array of colors, and textures. I love the purple, pink, green tints, and the complex leaves are almost artwork if you look close.

These beautiful cabbages, have been in my planters since that last remenants of summer. They have frozen and thawed at least a dozen times, and they still seem so fresh.

I much prefer these Kale over the traditional flower of choice this time of year which is the Mum.

I just think this has much more punch don't you.?

Okay, well enough of this, I am on my way outside looking like Nanook Of the North. With my huge boots, hat , gloves, coat and all the regalia to tackle rearranging all the urns and pots with greens and bows and giant ornaments for the holidays.....It is already too close to christmas, where did the time go to anyway.?????

gina

CAMP PEACOCK

2010-11-17T14:11:00.011-06:00

Welcome to camp Peacock........
This past week was a complete blast. I am soooooooo grateful to have VICTORIA come out and have another photo shoot with us.
There is a new item in the line, a romantic safari tent. They are the most magical spaces , and they will be available from Peacock Park Design. The shoot was simply MAGICAL.....it was shot day and night. When we lit the candles, Lanterns and firepit, it was unbelievable. I wanted to just spend hours out there.

There were so many vignettes that we did. We had everything from laundry lines with vintage clothes to authentic bits and baubles that I have been accumilating from places like Texas, local flea markets, and of course the Peacock Park Warehouse. There are so many new products that fit right into the shoot. It was such a fun couple days, and I am thrilled to be able to do it!!
Here's the hard part........I have to wait until next Fall to see it in print......NEXT Fall...How on earth can I wait that long/?? These pictures are mine, off of a couple different cameras, untouched, and as you will see, with spots on the lens, and blurred, but I wanted to show the general idea of the shoot.
If you could see the shots through their lens, it was simply exquisite....every shot looked like a magazine cover. Truly amazing.....thank you Brittany !!!

We even got Dinky (the donkey) into the act. He was saddled up with his canvas bag of maps, and an antique studded leather harness belt....he looked so dapper don't you think.

The ceiling of the tent has hand stampled fleur de lis, it also has striped canvas poles, and wooden finials on top. The tent actually has another room that attaches to the back of the main room, it can be used for small sleeping quarters, or private bath , I opted to not attach feeling that it really wasnt neccessary for the shoot. But of course, I go back an forth....maybe I should have put it on, maybe not.......I am sure when the magazine comes out you won't even know that there could have been another room, or that there will be plenty of shots that it wont even matter.......BUT...now you all know what COULD have been....right?

I am so in love with my new "Paris" laundry baskets. They are a set of 3 stacking distressed will hamper baskets with lids, they look so authentic with the stencil fronts. I think these make the perfect toy boxes, or chic storage solution to so many items.....love , love , love them...

This incredible rare collapsable tub that has a heated water tank was my prize find in Texas. It was the icing on the cake for the shoot. We had a PPD wire candelier full of candles hanging above it, and lanterns lit all around. It was such a beautiful setting.

This is my giant pound puppy Tank.....can you ever guess why he is named Tank??? He is a big mush though, he just looks vicious.

well this is just the tip of the iceburg when it comes to the shots, and vignettes that were created at the camp. I hope you all keep you eyes peeled for the Fall issue of VICTORIA and grab a copy to look at the finished product. I am sure that it will be breathtaking. I am such a big fan of the magazine, and I am thrilled to be a small part of it.
thank you again girls......
xoxo
Gina

Nuts for the Nutcracker....

2010-11-13T12:17:00.008-06:00

I went to the Nutcracker Market which is in Houston Texas. It is a fund raiser that is held once a year to benefit the Houston Ballet.
There is a preview party where they have food and drinks, and shopping, shopping, shopping. You can shop till you drop. The displays in alot of the booths are terrific, and the theme here is definately CHRISTMAS !! There is mountains of Glitter, and piles of ornaments, and more Bling from costume Jewelry and Rhinestones than on a Las Vegas Stage.
Well, anyone who knows me, knows that I would have been positively drooling over this authentic stagecoach. Oooooh, I would love to get my hands on this one. It would be a very welcome addition to my carriage collection. I don't think the horses would like to pull this bad boy though !!

The theme changes every year, but this year the theme was Holiday under the Big Top. I love this......they did a really nice job.

The food tables coordinated with the whole circus theme.

as you can see, many of the vendors did a terrific job of display in their booths.

This vendor had our wonderful Mats of Calligraphy on their booth floor. I saw quite a bit of Peacock Park Design goodies there.

This booth looked wonderful. This is Round Top Collection. Jeff and his wife actually have their headquarters just a few miles from the venue. They did I bang up job of display. They are two of thee nicest people ever, and it is so thrilling to see such nice folks be so successful at what they do.

The wonderful Bird cages are from Peacock Park Design's limited editions. I love that he got some of them. He put the pair of cages into a sleigh, and added beautiful doves.....are the turtle

doves??? I am not sure.

I adore this kooky moose. I could see this at any party can't you? I think he is magical and festive.

Look at the tops of this tent like booth.....how adorable eh?

This vision in winter white is Vintage Home. She had a cabinet that is to "die for". If I could have carried it on the plane it would probably be mine right now.

I loved this old wheelbarrow overflowing with faux snowballs.

This Magnificent Display is the work of Sandstone Gardens. They really know how to put on a show...It is towering pines that are at least 25 feet tall. Breathtaking!

Bolts and Bolts and Bolts of Ribbon , Tulle, and Trims....wow!

There were happy shoppers everywhere...they had sore feet but happy faces.

This was one of my favorite booths as well. It was for the best pies on earth, and I have to say, I loved this guys costume. It was insanely simple, but effective. I loved the layers of washed out tulle, I don't think the result would have been half as impactful if it were bright colored tulle. But of course we all know, I am NOT a fan of bright or primary colors. My freinds all say I am "void" of color...

This wonderful old bike was in another booth, again it is the color combination that really makes this work. The faded colors against the blackness of the bike make them just "pop" even though they are subtle in their own right.

Now , not to be the bearer of bad news, but there truly is ONLY about 40 days left until Christmas !!!!!!!!! AAaaaaaaahhhhh......I can't believe it . ALREADY???? How could that be???? I still have to take down some Halloween stuff, can you believe it???

HAPPY SHOPPING

XOXOXO GINA !

Spooky Surroundings .....

2010-10-31T11:26:00.004-05:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

I cannot believe how the time flies. I made it home from High Point N.C. and Asia just in time to get the Goblins ready for their big night. Due to the heavy travel schedule I had this month, I didnt go "all out" for the big spooktakular as I usually do. But I did manage to get a few spooky sets staged anyway.

I found in High Point from an Antique dealer, the most wonderful taxidermy of an actual Raven. I did not realize how large they were......I know, I know....me the animal lover....buying a stuffed critter. He assured me it was an antique and that it would have died of natural causes. Soooooooo hopefully he wasnt just singing me a song. He is so majestic and regal. I just love him.

To accompany my Mr. Bones in the Foyer, there is also a new addition of a funeral home sign that is a MUST for any halloween scene. How can you resist this one?

The pictures are few for lack of time, but I want to wish everyone a fun night of digging through their kids, or grandkids loot bags. My kids know, I have dibs on all snickers.......!!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN

Jet Lag

2010-10-29T21:43:00.006-05:00

Well, when I am in Asia, I must admit, I don't really like the food very well. There is one thing that I do like though............Dragon Fruit....The names sounds like it would be crazy tangy but it is a mild/sweet, fruit with a soft apple consistency. If you have never tried it, you should.....YUM !!!

I am not one for mercedes, but I think this one would work just fine.....actually, my 9 year old saw this picture and thought, this would be PERFECT for her when she gets her license, but until then, she can just drive up and down the driveway, so it won't be a waste of money for me......(how thoughtful eh? ) Yes, it is all crystals.

Something about Bamboo, it is just such a great looking plant, and grows into strong as steel rods in no time.

This is what a typical Ficus tree will do, if it is given the perfect environment to grow in. The roots are the prettiest part of the tree.

This is a great park smack dab in the middle of Hong Kong.

Finally...........I am home for a good long spell. Well, not too long, but at least enough to catch my breath, do some graphic work on the computer, and get all the chores done before the winter blast. Oooh I hate winter, I mean HATE IT !!! I could easily go without this season. Maybe its because I grew up in California??? I have no idea, but I just despise the cold weather.

Well I just got home a while ago, and hit the ground running, after spending many days in Hong Kong, and China. It was warm and sunny there, beautiful actually. Usually this time of year is like a furnace. But not too many good things come out of a typhoon, but this one brought on some much needed cool breezes as well as sunny clear skies. ( a rarity in China) there is quite a bit of smog in the large cities like there is here in the states.

For those of you who have never been to Hong Kong, the city is ENORMOUS!! It truly is one of the largest cities in the world. If you take Manhattan (which we think is large) and put at least 15 of them side by side, you will get the scale of Hong Kong. The buildings are lit up like parades and have a multitude of ever changing light and lazer shows that protrude from these amazing structures.

Of course we all know I am a big fan of antique and ancient architecture, but I certainly have a huge respect of these incredible feats of design, and I am always in awe of the sheer talent it takes to master such milestones ontop of sheer rock and boulders.

It has been a crazy busy month, and I am sooooooooo glad to be home, I do leave for Houston in the morning, but only for the day, I will be back within 24 hours. So that one darn near doesn't count right???

I have so many things I need to post about. I have been in Hong Kong and visited with my friend Donna who Is an amazing Ribbon and textile designer. She lives on a Junk boat in the Harbour of Hong Kong.....And by "Junk Boat" it doesnt mean Junkie, it is a term for the wooden boats that dot the harbour. I will show you pics, and fill you in on her line at a later date. It is an amazing venture, and beautiful way to live.

I also just finished another shoot with VICTORIA magazine today. That will be out in the Fall of next year....It looks amazing if I do say so myself. I will also show you some shots from that fun shoot.

It won't be too long inbetween blogs I promise !

Sorry, just out of time.

gina

Marburger Farm Antique Show............

2010-10-02T14:45:00.008-05:00

I just did a complete blog on nothing but Marburger, You can view it at

www.marburgerfarms.blogspot.com

MARBURGER ANTIQUE SHOW............

2010-09-27T22:44:00.013-05:00

Tommarrow morning at 10 am the Marburger Farm Antique Show opens its doors and tents to the public. This show is the Queen of Antique Shows. The dealers are so proud of the displays, and make an effort of merchandising, that is worthy of the front cover of many magazines.
What makes this show different is the hospitality of the vendors, staff and locals.
This is the "lobby" of the farms office....how quaint is this????

This is the King of the Farm. Rick and his wife and family own and run the show....they are amazing hosts of the event.

These shots are the day before opening day, this is how good these booths look BEFORE they are open, I will show open day shots later. You can imagine how good they look during the show.

the above vignettes are the wonderful time worn interiors as seen on her card below.

this is miss "chippy" I call her....her blog is 2chippys

She is another great talent.

her card is below

he has lost his head

bolts and bolts and bolts of rayon bindings.

The unmatched talent of this master from Willows Nest. His lovely bride Linda, was not in the booth yet. !!! I wanted everything he made....but tommarrow is shopping day for Gina/

Yes, he made this unit......

another talent in the show.....I always love her booth....love love love it.... Her card is below

how cool eh??? tin boat....

Okay, this is the sweet Robin, of magnolia pearl..... A super sweet soul with not a mean bone in her creative little body......a living sprite.....love her!

one of her creations.

yes, she and John made this amazing creation of wire, bits and baubles/

One of my favorite jewelry designers.....skip to my lou

Tons of European Antiques...their card is below.

The best sign painter in all of Texas....I love these guys.....super duper sweet and nice.

Oh, another favorite....her card is below

Oh, I want this shoe sign.......

another fine dealer in European antiques.....her card is below...

Beauty is everywhere !!!!!

Love these turq. tubs....

always taxidermy...there is quite a trend with stuffed wildlife these days.....

Run dont walk to Marburger this week....it is worth the drive , flight, or journey...if for nothing else, just inspiration !!!

Gina

Hear ye...... Hear Ye...................

2010-09-19T11:17:00.007-05:00

Have you ever been to a "Renaissance Festival"/????
Well I have, I went yesterday, and took my daughter and two other maidens to the fair. Let me tell you, this is SERIOUS business for these folks.
It happens once a year for two months of weekends in the fall here in Michigan. A wooded forest that has been transformed into Hamlet and Lords, Ladies, Jesters and Fools run amuck throught this mystical village.
Apparently people come from all over and drive hundreds of miles to attend, I happen to live literally 20 minutes from the place.

Remember how fun a simple cut out can be???? This is my maiden transformed into a mighty Knight.

Below here is a King....even the faire is authentic. People run around munching on smoked turkey legs. This King believe it or not, is NOT part of the "employees". This is an example of how some people really get into this. I guess they travel from festival to festival, they are like a show circut, and a little community. They rent storefronts, and sell their wares to make their livings...eveything from wands of fairy dust, floral hair wreaths, costumes, herbs, and oils, and of course the town cryer in his ever so thick accent will announce the goings on in the village...

There are jousting competitions, and knight battles....The kids eat this stuff up. But I am amazed at the amount of adults that REALLY....no I mean REALLY get into this. Husbands, Wives, Kids, the whole family must plan for months on the wardrobe.

Just look at the details of the costumes.

I noticed on the belt of costumed characters was a leather strap that would wrap around the stem, or handle of their glass , tankard or cup. So they would never miss an opportunity for a free wee bit of Lager or Ale.

I believe the black cloth pinned on her shoulder means "widow???" I am not sure.

Get a load of the DETAIL.....wow.....I can certainly appreciate it, but I have to tell you......There just isnt enough Gold Silver or Boullion on the planet to get my Mr. Wonderful to don a pair of these tights, or ahem......Leggins, with a pair of slashed pantaloons.... OH MY GOSH.....it just would NOT HAPPEN. And I have to say, with his legs he would certainly look wicked, and have all the wenches after him.....but NO WAY.....

It is funny, when he is crabby .....I will always say to him........Yes, your hiney....ehem, I mean your Highness......... ( He doesnt think it is funny at all, but I always crack myself right up. )

We are talking serious brocades here !!

Look at the amount of hand work and detail. wow !

I think she was a queen....

The stores and buildings are all made by these creative people to have a whimsical medieval charm.

Check out that strap holding the cup on her backside....I would forget and sit on it I am sure, one hundred times. I would have to cheat and have plastic...hahaha.

Well we all know I LOVE this hat....

How can you not love it with the wonderful Peacock Feathers.

This is also my favorite color pallet. Dingy corals, golds, turquoise and greens. It has such a faded elegance about it.

I love peacock feathers.

Some people dont realize, But the male peacocks shed their tails every fall.....so the feathers you get are really just their castoffs. The are not pulled or harmed in ANY way. The next year their tail is bigger and so on and so on.

I have had peacocks at Peacock Park for many years, and it still amazes me to this day, how many feathers come from just one bird. It is incredible. They certainly earn their keep giving us the gifts of their feathers every fall.

My lovely maidens on their way home to the chariot that awaits to take them back to their very own kingdoms.......Aaahhhh...to be young eh??

........AND THEY LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER !!!