A Fairytale Wedding and a Famous Château


As many of you know, Brad and Angelina recently wed at their home, Château Miraval in Brignoles, France but many aren’t familiar with it’s history.

It has been purchased many times with renovations added to the property, which now includes 35 bedrooms, a spa, gym, home theatre, game room, dirt bike course, two helicopter pads, a lake, indoor and outdoor pools, pine forests, olive groves, and a moat.  Who wouldn’t want a moat?  Jolie had a 200 year-old olive tree transplanted in the family’s garden in 2010.


Perched upon 1,000 acres, 75 of which are devoted to producing wine.  The vineyards were created using organic and produce some of the best rosé, ranked upon the best 100 in 2013.  Miraval wines were launched on Valentine’s Day in 2013 in collaboration with the Perrin family.  In March, their first 6,000 bottles of rosé sold out in 5 minutes.  Other wines include: grenache noir, blanc, and cabernet sauvignon.

IVV159 MIraval Cave

The French-gothic style chapel on the grounds is where the wedding took place.  It was rebuilt in 1880 and fits about 20 people, perfect for a small wedding with just family and friends.


The château has a history ~ 
The charming chateau’s history dates back to the 13th century when it was a monastery.  It is believed philosopher and theologian, Saint Thomass of Aquinas, spent several days here.  In the 15th century, it was listed as a noble home when the Prince of Naples relocated to join the French Court.  In 1970, Château Miraval was purchased by legendary jazz pianist, Jacques Loussier, who created a recording studio on the property.  Pink Floyd recorded tracks for “The Wall” there in 1979.  Other artists recording here include AC/DC, Sting, and Muse. 

Angelina’s Atelier Versace silk-satin dress featured detailed embroidered drawings of their six children.  Their artwork also appeared on Jolie’s silk veil.

Brad and Angie's wedding was a strictly family affair. Image: http://angelinafanbrasil.com/

All six children took part in the wedding ceremony with their eldest sons, Maddox and Pax, walking the bride down the aisle.  Zahara and Vivienne threw flower petals while Shiloh and Knox served as ring bearers.  Handwritten vows were exchanged with tears in their eyes as they read them to each other.
A very happy family on a very special day! Image: http://angelinafanbrasil.com/
The family photo above is my favourite.  You can feel their happiness and sense of closeness as a family.

Brad and Angelina cut their wedding cake, which was made by their son, Pax.
Jolie stated, “It was important to us that the day was relaxed and full of laughter,” the blissful newlyweds said in a statement. “It was such a special day to share with our children and a very happy time for our family.”

You may now kiss the bride. Image: http://angelinafanbrasil.com/

I love the expressions while mom and dad kiss!

Brad Pitt's parents, William and Jane Pitt , with Zahara , Shiloh , Vivienne and Knox. Image:   http://angelinafanbrasil.com/
Brad Pitt’s parents, William and Jane Pitt , with Zahara , Shiloh , Vivienne and Knox.

I believe the wedding was perfect and wouldn’t change a thing!

xx,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

sources here, here, and here   

Julia Child’s Tarte Normande aux Pommes


Nothing says autumn to me than an apple tart/pie.  I have always correlated the two since I was a young girl and my grandmother made her famous apple pies.  I grew up watching Julia child on television and she inspired me with her French recipes and I could see how much she, and my grandmother, loved cooking.  I was especially inspired by the joy my grandmother, and I’m sure Julia also, received joy from watching their family and friends enjoy what they baked for them.  I get the same sense of joy when I bake for my family and friends.  I especially love how my children tell me I am the best cook in the world!  I know this is far {very far} from the reality, however, to them, I am.  My youngest son, Brendan, loves this tart and I will be baking it for him again this season.

Tarte Normande aux Pommes


For the Pie
1/4 recipe Flaky Pie Dough, chilled
6 Granny Smith apples
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
Pinch of cinnamon
1/2 cup fresh, fluffy bread crumbs
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
For the Topping
3 Granny Smith apples
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 1/2 teaspoons granulated sugar
Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Toasted sliced Almonds {I like to sprinkle these on top}

On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a circle 1/8 inch thick, and fit it into a 9-inch fluted tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the overhang against the edge to create a small protruding ledge over the inside of the pan. Gently press ledge with thumb so dough is lifted up above the rim. Use the back of a knife to flute the ridge. Chill 30 minutes.
Center rack in oven and preheat to 400°F. Fir a piece of parchment paper into the tart and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake 25 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer tart to a cooling rack and let rest. Lower oven to 375°F. Peel and core apples; cut them in half and each half into 12 pieces. Put them into a large bowl and toss with sugar, flour, cinnamon, bread crumbs and a squeeze of lemon juice. Spread apples on a jelly-roll pan and bake 15 minutes or until their juices start to form a sauce. Scrape apples into a bowl and mash. Taste and adjust flavor with more lemon juice. Cool 15 minutes.
To prepare the topping, peel, core, and quarter the apples. Cut into 1/4 inch thick slices. Starting at the edge, arrange overlapping apple slices around the tart. Lay another circle overlapping the first by 1/8 inch. Make a center of overlapping slices to form a rosette. Brush apple slices with melted butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Place tart on parchment lined pan and bake 25 minutes or until top is glazed and apple slices are edged in black. Transfer tart to a cooling rack. When cool, remove from pan and dust edges with confectioner’s sugar.  Makes 8 to 10 servings

Prefer to watch the video?  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrMYwHm6uf4

                                                    What is your favourite tart recipe?

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Recipe via here, Photo here 

A Brand New Week, Plus NYFW Street Style

Bonjour and Happy Monday!  I hope you had a wonderful weekend.  I had a nice, relaxing weekend and met a girlfriend for dinner on Saturday.  Isabella came with us and we had a fun girls night out.  I love that she is at the age and she is learning how important friendships are, especially with other women.  Most of my girlfriends and I have been friends since high school or earlier.

While I love perusing fashion show photos, I really like to see what everyone is wearing to the shows, however, I’m not fond of the over the top ensembles.  Here are some of my favourites.

Jenna Lyons in Nike sneakers and I’m pretty certain a J Crew tee.  A little casual for me but it’s very her and she always looks great.

Mademoiselle Yulia’s heels are the best part of this ensemble.  Love them!

Nicki Minaj in Alexander Wang.  This is great look for her, wouldn’t you agree?
NYFW Street Style
Stuart Weitzman sandals… love this entire look.
NYFW Street Style
I am smitten with this white dress and heels… perfection.  She looks absolutely stunning, like she should be in a show!
Giovanna Battaglia carrying a Sara Battaglia clutch, Rochas flats.  She always looks great!

NYFW Street Style
She had me at the cobalt sandals.  My favourite shoe colour of the season.

NYFW Street Style
Proenza Schouler dress and Les Petits Joueurs bag.  I can never resist puppy cuteness!  This photo is overload…

NYFW Street Style
Not a the best photo but this ensemble is a favourite.  I’m pretty certain this is blogger, Kristina Bazan of Kayture.  She always nails it… each outfit, every day.

Wishing you a beautiful week ahead!

xx,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com


Photos here

Bon Weekend, Plus Couture Cocktails

I hope you had a wonderful week!  The weekend is upon us and time to relax and have fun.
I plan to have dinner with a girlfriend tomorrow evening and, hopefully, have time for a bike ride or two in the beautiful weather we’re forecast to have.
Paris
I love this photo of Paris.  As I mentioned yesterday, I’m missing Paris… as always, but more so this week since it has been 1 year today since our last visit.  We’re looking at our schedule and hope to plan something but in the meantime, this girl is going to dream…
Couture Cocktails
Atty Cocktail
Atty Cocktail–a classic gin-based drink with absinthe and crème de violette
1 1/2 oz gin
3/4 oz dry vermouth
1/2 tsp absinthe
1/2 tsp crème de violette
 lemon peel for garnish 

Combine gin, vermouth, absinthe and crème de violette in a shaker with ice; shake for 5-10 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a lemon peel.

Wishing you a lovely weekend!  I hope it’s beautiful where you are!!

Bisous xx,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Photo via here, cocktail via here

La Rentrée in Paris, Plus 1 More

Now that the final soirée known as Labor Day has passed, it’s official – summer is over.  Well, technically, we still have until September 22nd.  It always makes me sad to say farewell.  For me, it’s always the hardest season to say goodbye to.  The kids have been back to school for a few weeks now but I’ve been wrapping up a few projects around here, however, I will be starting new projects for clients and need to get back to my schedule.  I was in Paris last year for La Rentrée and miss it.  Below are a few autumn photos to get you inspired, plus a delicious new recipe I discovered via Pinterest!

Eiffel Tower
Go back to Paris in the fall, walk along the Seine. sigh
Stunning Picz: Autumn in Paris
❤❤❤
Roasted Pumpkin, Feta, and Quinoa Salad

Roasted pumpkin, feta and quinoa salad
2 Cups Quinoa
2 lbs Jap Pumpkin/Acorn Squash
2 Tbl Olive Oil
1 Med Red Onion – sliced into wedges
1/4 C White Wine Vinegar
2 tsp Caster {superfine} Sugar
1/3 C Chopped Cilantro Leaves
1 2/3 C Chickpeas
Marinated Feta, Crumbled, to serve

Soak the quinoa in a saucepan with 3 cups (750ml) water for 15 minutes. Place the saucepan over high heat and bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Set aside. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the pumpkin and half the oil on a baking tray and toss to coat. Roast for 10 minutes. Add the onion and roast for a further 10–15 minutes or until pumpkin is tender. Mix to combine the vinegar, sugar, cilantro leaves, chickpeas and quinoa. Top with pumpkin, onion and feta to serve. Serves 4.

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com


Photos here, recipe adapted from here

Top 7 Favourite Lingerie Boutiques in Paris


If you have followed this blog for awhile you know that I have a serious addiction to beautiful, French lingerie.  Each visit to Paris I come home with a luggage full of carefully chosen sets, garters, and hosiery from my favourite designers.  What is it the allure of French lingerie that make us love it so?  The most exquisite labels choose the finest fabrics and are made of detailed craftsmanship, many maintain a long tradition of silk and lace making.  Parisians take their lingerie very seriously and this is evident by the number of boutiques one can find in each Quartier.  These boutiques showcase some of the best window displays I’ve seen.  Why don’t we have many of these in the U.S.?  Below is a round-up of my favourite boutiques.

Fifi Chachnil: Fifi’s playful, pin-up style is one of my favourite stops.  Not only does she design beautiful lingerie, but clothing as well (I’m smitten with the dresses and babyloo), and a lovely parfum (my favourite also).  She has also created the costumes for the famed Crazy Horse.
231 rue St. Honoré, 75001 Paris – There are three boutiques but this is the one I frequent

Chantal Thomass: One of the pioneers in lingerie, Chantal signature style is evident in her avant-garde lingerie and hosiery designs… and I love my umbrella.
211 rue St Honoré, 75001 Paris

Carine Gilson:  Beautiful, handmade lingerie of natural silk and and delicate French lace with a price tag to match.
18 rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris

Cadolle: Herminie Cadolle is credited with inventing the bra in 1889 and generations later, this boutique sells corsets that will have you looking svelte under that body skimming dress.
4 rue Cambon 75001 Paris

Agent Provocateur:  A wide range of exquisite bras, knickers, suspenders, stockings, corsets, basques, and garters.
17 rue Cambon, 75001 Paris

Aubade: Their designs are synonymous with romance and romance.
Various locations


Sabbia Rosa:  This designer boutique nestled in the 6th Arrondissment offers a large selection from various luxury designers.
73 rue des Saints-Pères, 75006 Paris

Do you have a favourite lingerie brand or boutique?

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

photos via me, their website, herehere, here, here, and here

Hello Monday and Farewell to Summer, Plus Emerson Frye F/W 2014


I hope you had a wonderful long holiday weekend.  We spent most of it with family and friends, and attended a Japanese Festival.  I can hardly believe summer is ending and for me it’s always a sad farewell.  However, I love autumn, especially the fashions and the changing colours, but mostly the fashions.

I’ve fallen for the fall/winter 2014 collection of Emerson Frye.  The collection is all about layering up with interesting texture, as well as beautiful topstitching details on structural doubleface pieces.  Emerson Frye is known pieces that will integrate seamlessly into your wardrobe.

I’ve been searching for a new coat and this may be the one.  I love the light colour, not too light, and the long, straight structure with a nod to meanswear… it can be dressed up or down.  It’s perfection.

New this season is the Emerson Bag.  It’s comprised of waxed tactical with all black powder coated hardware. This is sleek bag is designed for those who prefer to carry one bag to work, travel, and daily life.  Look at the beautiful texture on that coat?  Hello gorgeous!
My favourite piece from the collection is the Trooper Boot.  I love, love, love this boot!  I just might pack away my 50/50’s in lieu of these.
The layering dress in structural black doubleface fabric is a piece that you will keep in your closet during all seasons.  This double-duty dress will transition from warmer temps to being paired with leggings and chunky sweaters.

How fabulous are these D’Orsay Heels?  They will be finding their way into my shopping cart.

Every girl needs a stud belt.  Either of these in matte black or silver, or both, will fit nicely into my wardrobe!

Do you have a favourite piece?


Wishing you a most beautiful week!

xoxo,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Wanderlust: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

The Waldorf Astoria recently opened it’s newest hotel in Amsterdam in May, nestled in a city that is known for it’s architectural charm.

Waldorf Astoria in Amsterdam

Along the Herengracht, one of Amsterdam’s most scenic canals, six 17th and 18th Century townhouses have been transformed into this elegant new hotel at the heart of this Netherlands city.   Only a short stroll or cycle to most sights such as the flower market and Rijksmuseum, and within minutes to the Hermitage Museum, Royal Threatre Carr, Music Theatre, and Van Gogh Museum.


Hotel lobby

Waldorf-astoria-amsterdam The-netherlands.jpg
Event venue

Boasting restored facades and a grand staircase built by the architect of Louis XIV, Daniel Marot.  Originally, the hotel was built in 1665 for the Backer family.  It’s neutral palette of blue and beige hues was inspired by the paintings of Dutch master Johannes Vermeer.  Guests can assemble in seven conference and event rooms, including a ballroom, and the Courtyard Garden.

Guest Room
Guestroom

IN ITEM2 (1)

The opulent 93 guestrooms and suites feature contemporary furnishings, Wi-Fi, and the expansive windows which look onto the waterway or a courtyard that garden designer Saskia Albrecht planted with 5,000 American tulips. Sidney Schutte, a former chef at the three-Michelin-starred restaurant De Librije, devised an international menu for the hotel.

I’m a fan of the Waldorf Astoria in NYC and stay there when in town… this hotel is definitely on my list of places to visit.

xx,

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Style Inspiration: How To Style a Coffee Table


I’m often asked how to style cocktail tables as I do for clients once their design is complete.  I always recommend displaying items you love and use often.  The coffee table is a major focus of  your living room and where most families spend the majority of their time.

Favourite books

coffee table boxes
Boxes for remotes, etc.

Beautiful And Luxurious
Trays help to keep small items organized and from looking too scattered

Love this painting via Her Roaring Twenties, though I wish the artist were cited. Would love to know where to get something like this!
Something unique

*
Lucite coffee table with gustavian tub chairs
Vases filled with fresh flowers are always a must for me

Candles for ambient lighting

Gorgeous living room

.
Composition matters: Artfully arranged, the simplest items can be beautiful.  

Don’t try to hard… collect items you love and represent your style.

xx.

B

If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

Style Inspiration: Emmy’s 2014 Best Dressed

I think we were a little thrown off by the Monday night broadcast of the Emmy’s this year due to scheduling conflicts.  However, the styles were spot on and in my opinion, Lizzy Caplan outshone everyone in her Donna Karan Atelier.

Best complete look, hair and gown, goes to Heidi Klum.  I will be showing this photo to my stylist in a couple of weeks.  I absolutely love her coral Zac Posen gown too!
The runner’s up are….

Taylor Schilling in a silver Art Deco inspired Zuhair Murad… love, love, love

Allison Williams is beautiful in Giambattista Valli
Sofia Vergara, Emmy Awards 2014
Sophia Vergara in Roberto Cavalli
Sarah Hyland looks lovely in Christina Siriano

Hayden Pannetiere is glowing in her Lorena Sorbu gown

As most of you know, I love Elie Saab and this one worn my Julia Roberts is stunning.  Her legs look amazing!

Cat Deeley in an ombré Burberry

Did you have a favourite?

xx,

B
If you would like help in creating a home you love, please contact me at Brenda@atelierdhautedesign.com

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