Okay, here's what I found around the corner at the flea market...
THE Queen
of All things Shabby and Chic
Rachel Ashwell!
Sooooo excited!!!
She was shopping in a booth, purchasing a chair from a vendor-
a sweet little wooden chair with a thick fish net seat- see bottom pic.
She was there at the flea market do a book signing so I had brought along my book for her to sign- so glad I did because they didn't have any available when we got there!
When we found out that she would be attending a flea market when we were going to be in the Central Coast area we were just so excited!
I have to tell you.
She is just everything you would think she would be.
She is gracious and kind and so, so sweet!
She offered a warm friendly smile immediately and chatted with me
(love her accent!) while signing my book.
She stood with me for a few pictures and you can see,
I am clearly BEYOND excited in these photos!
I know, there have been many out there who have met her before
but to me...
to meet one of my design and personal idols is so amazing!
She is a huge inspiration to me!
Though my decorating style definitely includes
bold reds and rich wood patina- maybe more traditional,
I always have chippy painted shabby pieces in my house,
beautiful shabby inspired linens
and meaningful 'bits'.
Shabby Chic has influenced so many things.
I remember when we purchased our 'cottage'...
I knew the wood plank walls would be beautiful painted white...
the old cupboards had character....
the house had all the elements of being a warm shabby cottage home
even if it was tattered and worn.
I have perused her books for inspiration over & over and have always found it.
As well as her style, I have admired Rachel Ashwell as a person
and all that she has accomplished and become.
She is truly the Queen of shabby chic and it was such an honor to meet her!
linking to Inspiration Friday