Petalos di Pauli

All the Elements of Love

2012-02-14T09:12:00.000-08:00

Love comes in all shapes and sizes, and for Linda and Paul, this was it. It was in this inspired invitation design; the real flowers, a rose crystal, and a sprinkling of ornaments that sparked nostalgia. It all added up. LOVE; timeless and sublime. This Petalos di Pauli custom, handmade creation has all the elements of love.

Meet Flyboy Naturals

2010-10-27T14:14:00.000-07:00

Petalos di Pauli is so fortunate to work with some of the best vendors in the country and we consider freeze dried flower petal supplier Flyboy Naturals (www.flyboynaturals.com) to be such a talented and creatively generous partner in so many of our projects.   Says co-founder Jami Brown: “Our petals are all natural and we do our part to help the earth and environment. We use wind energy to process our freeze dried petals (including roses, lilac, peony and hydrangea) and grow all our flowers using a certified green pest-control program.”

We love talking to “petal specialists” at their Myrtle Creek, Oregon operation whenever we have a question such as how many petals will line a specific size presentation box. We left petals out overnight on a major design project recently and it was Flyboy to the rescue when during a California heat wave, the petals became dry and a bit difficult to work with. Flyboy Naturals provided just the right solution to restore their beauty and suppleness. Likewise, they feel free to call on our expertise, such as recommendations for the best kind of glue for using with petals.

Jami’s freeze drying expertise started back in 1988 doing whole flowers and a line of everything from wreaths and topiary to swags, garland and centerpieces. Former pilot husband Jim and Jami started Flyboy Naturals in 1992 and the couple “found our slice of heaven on the mighty south Umpqua River in Oregon.”   We consider Jami a creative soulmate because, like us, she and Jim love being surrounded by beauty and making others happy in sharing that beauty by providing a beautiful, natural, eco-friendly product at very affordable prices.

The Petalos di Pauli studio has a palette of 100 varieties of petals from Flyboy in various petal sizes and color blends which we love showing to clients. Call us to make an appointment to see this fabulous collection and hear ideas on how you can use Flyboy petals for your next project.   Did you know that freeze dried rose petals are preferred for most wedding venues today? That’s because live petals can stain and are slippery on floors. No such problems with freeze dried petals! So many of the wonderful botanical effects created by Petalos di Pauli are made possible using freeze dried petals from Flyboy Naturals.

Creative Collaborations

2010-10-15T08:22:00.000-07:00

The most successful special events are always a collaborative creative effort. We recently had the pleasure of working with Santa Barbara event planner Merryl Brown (www.merrylbrownevents.com) to support the elegance and charm of a Bohemian Chic wedding her firm designed for an open air venue.

Normally we work from our Orange County studio, but it was a special treat to work onsite for this occasion smack dab in the middle of the woods, so a lot of this design was done on the fly. The bride’s wedding dress and fondness for daisies inspired our use of this flower on the sweet heart table, crowning the menu cards, for the escort cards designed as miniature take-home daisy bouquets and the wedding invitation featuring a bright yellow gerbera daisy with metal embellishment. The results, as you can see from these photos, are magical, combining heirloom tradition with a little bit of 70s funk!

Natural wooden elements are used in chair signage.

Yellow, white and lime green hues centered around a daisy theme.

The daisy theme is carried out in the menu cards.

The wedding invitation sports vibrant colors to carry out the Bohemian Chic theme.

Burlap sacks provide an eco-friendly take-home daisy bouquet.

Fresh flowers accent the heirloom objects

Event design by Merryl Brown Events. Photography by Melissa Musgrove Photography. Floral design by Cody Floral Design. Lighting design by Bella Vista Designs. Creative Consultant Kimberly Anderson.

Five ways to make special event stationery eco-friendly

2010-08-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Image by Organized Light Photography

Kermit the Frog may think it’s not easy being green, but when it comes to designing eco-friendly special event stationery, we beg to disagree, dear Kermie! Here are five things to consider when designing your invitations, menus, reply cards, envelopes and other special event collateral that will make your efforts more earth friendly:

Less is more: using less paper is not only eco-friendly; it will prove more economical for you in the long-run.
Double the pleasure: consider printing on both sides of insert cards instead of using two separate cards.
Tree-free doesn’t mean paperless: investigate the many wonderful paper options that don’t require tree kill.
Toxin-free papers and inks: vegetable dye-based papers and soy inks are the earth-friendly way to go.
Choose local first: whether a local printer or using locally grown flowers, eliminate the environmental emissions caused by transporting or importing your design elements long-distance by choosing local whenever possible.

Petalos di Pauli has lots of crafty ideas when it comes to designing good-looking and eco-friendly stationery products. As purveyors of paper, we bring to you a range of post-consumer recycled paper sources and feature choices, including Saa (Mulberry tree) and Lotka (Daphne bush), for sustainable style. Going green may be easier and more beautiful than you think, with our team of knowledgeable creatives ready to help.

Gracious Greening,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

Trends in Wedding Decor Revealed

2010-07-15T16:25:00.000-07:00

We introduced The Seed Packet Escort Cards at The Most Anticipated Event of the Season, YWD Magazine's exclusive bridal event, designed to highlight the latest trends in wedding decor and styling. Multiple photo shoot sets were designed as platforms of inspiration for over 1,100 brides, grooms and industry professionals who attended this backstage pass into the making of the YWD Spring|Summer issue.

This project was so much fun for me as one of the hand-selected designers who got to carry out the "Vintage Glamour" theme. Good Gracious! Events lead our team, that included Mille Fiori Floral Design, Classic Party Rentals, Wildflower Linen and Bella Vista Designs.

Each packet of pansy seeds was inscribed with a guest name and table number, functioning not only as the escort card but also as a favor to enjoy after the event. These custom designed gems included the couple’s special wording and an a real pansy on the front, giving them the Petalos di Pauli unique signature botanical touch.

The corresponding invitation incorporated clusters of pansies, along with dramatic pearl and antique gold jewel embellishments. The ensemble was presented in a petal-lined, cushioned, silk box to create a timeless and beautiful keepsake.

Click here to enjoy stunning images captured by Brilliant Studios.LA of our Vintage Glamour photo shoot set.

The YWD Spring | Summer 2010 Issue is on newsstands now (available at Barnes & Noble, Borders and Target).

Call us to find out how custom seed packets can enhance your next special event.

Warn wishes,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

Fat and Sassy vs. Skinny

2010-07-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Written communication is one of the best ways to capture someone's attention, especially when it arrives by way of a unique greeting or note card. Petalos di Pauli creations feature unexpected botanical embellishments like chunky gerbera daisies that speak "Happy Birthday" and blank note cards bearing Swarovski crystal-studded miniature blooms.

In the studio, we refer to designs that have fluffy flowers or require protective padding as "fat and sassy" due to the extra girth of the resulting mailing envelope. For best results with mailing cards with delicate embellishments, you'll need to protect the design by inserting the padding that comes with the card between its front and the envelope.

Fat and sassy cards may require additional first class postage if the envelope thickness is greater than ¼ inch. When in doubt, we recommend having it measured at the post office to assure a successful delivery.

Some fat and sassy designs have "skinny" versions that are still eye catching but omit design elements, like pearls or crystals, that would require special handling and surcharge (extra postage). If you see something in our On-line Boutique that you'd like to have skinnied, we are always happy to take custom orders.

For more tips on creative social expression, sign up for my newsletter "Petals & Pearls by Paula."

Cheerfully Yours,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

RentalComp Launch Party

2010-07-02T14:12:00.000-07:00

Last month we spent a beautiful June evening living it up at the RentalComp, Launch Party. RentalComp is a brand new search and compare website for event rental items (think KAYAK) that is sure to streamline the process of styling special events. The affair was to gorgeous not to share.

Upon entering the gates of Tiato, the incredible new House of AN venue, we found ourselves in a courtyard so beautiful and serene that we forgot that we were in busy Santa Monica.

It was Alexandra Rembac of Sterling Events and Carol Saunders of Grand Events who, together, produced this magical event that was both sterling and grand. I fell in love with the venue right from the start, drawn to the breathtaking, living wall art that lit up as the sun went down.

Since I'd recently begun sculpting my own vertical garden, I confess I experienced a bit of succulent envy.

As you can see, Shawna Yamamoto Event Design created wonderful and unique floral arrangements to compliment the space and carry out the magical vision. Teamed with beautiful furnishings from Girari and Lounge Appeal, the courtyard became the perfect laid back place to mingle, talk, lounge and indulge!

AN Catering is a known name in the industry. I won't even try describe the scrumptious hand passed hor d'oeuvres we were treated to. This is me eating my first box of AN's Famous "Secret Garden" Garlic Noodles. It was probably okay that I kept my mouth shut and just danced. AN Catering is incredible!

Photo by Heather Roman

The inside portion of the venue had been transformed into a beckoning space for those who wanted to dance or huddle up to the bar in a Lakers Game 6 friendly atmosphere. Dance music was provided by none other than Infusion Xperience from my favorite 11H Entertainment. History has shown that when Infusion Xperience is in the house I turn into a rhythmic introvert, abandoning conversation and all networking intentions because I have no choice but to dance. For those of you who don't known, Infusion Xperience is the ultimate balance between live A-list Musicians, DJ and Emcee.

Photo by Heather Roman

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of collaborating with Leslie Maynor of Fantasy Frostings, designing a wedding invitation inspired by her pearl embellished, Vintage Glamour Wedding Cake. While Leslie is wonderful to work with, being on the consuming end of her talent is even better. Her Dessert Table was artful and delicious. She is so much more than cakes!

I really tried to exercise restraint but when half dozen happy people told me I "really should try a funnel cake," I had to find out what all the fuss was about. Answer: It's about wonderfully, warm and delicious, made to order Mini Funnel Cakes by The Fry Girl. Enough said. [drool]

Sweet Lucie's provided an organic ice cream bar (as in buffet) that was described by many as serving the best ice cream they had ever tasted! And Rock Sake provided a variety of cocktails. Their signature "Cloud 9 Saketini" was Heather's favorite so she made sure she got the recipe.

You can try making it at home:

3 oz Rock Sake Cloud

1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice

Sugared Rim

Shake. Pour. Enjoy.

If our host's intention was to dote on guests from start to finish, I would have to shout "success" to Darryl Aken and the RentalComp team.

In conslusion, I want to mention that I appreciate complimentary valet parking the most when a battalion of uniformed attendants are on hand to insure that all departures are as graceful and hassle-free arrivals. On behalf of all the high heel ladies in attendance, "thank you" Logistic Parking for the VIP goodnight.

Unless otherwise noted, this phenomenal photography was provided courtesy of Callaway Gable Photography. The work speaks for itself.

Thank you, RentalComp, for inviting us to such a enjoyable event. It was a real treat for all of my senses. I wish you no less than complete success.

Sincerely,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

Ladybugs Abound at the Getty Gardens

2010-05-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

I've always had a fondness for ladybugs, easily won over by their stylish, polka dotted outfits. Many cultures view the ladybug as a symbol of goodluck. And a client recently commissioned our calligrapher to incorporate one into the design of their custom wedding invitation!

photo by bazylek100

Each year Getty gardeners release ladybugs on the jacaranda trees and azaleas to eat aphids during the spring months. They buy them from insectaries that sell them by the thousands. The gardeners put water on the foliage before releasing the ladybugs. When they emerge from their cold-storage sleep, they’re thirsty and will stay around and eat aphid if there is water to drink. What an awesome arrangement!

photo by jemasmith

For more interesting behind the scenes knowledge about how the Getty cares for its gardens, you can take a tour led by their horticulture staff. This Friday, May 7, check out “Getty Gardener’s Perspective” a special event celebrating National Public Gardens Day. The tours start at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. at the Getty Center, and at 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. at the Getty Villa.

With all the spring beauty that surrounds us, stay tuned for more posts inspired by the wonders of nature.

Sincerely,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist and
Friend of Ladybugs

Images used under a Creative Commons license.

Love the LOVE Stamp

2010-04-29T09:02:00.000-07:00

Postage stamps are an everyday necessity. We need them to mail bills and such. Buying stamps is not something that many of us give much thought to, but it could be!

A beautiful postage stamp can be a wonderful and thoughtful addition to a letter or card that you are mailing to a loved one. It is interesting how your eye gravitates towards a stamp that is not the "Forever Stamp." We are so accustom to seeing it, that when it is something different, we are immediately drawn to it.

Use a postage stamp as an opportunity to show the recipient that you were thinking of them, even as you put the stamp on the envelope. The right stamp can add a special touch. At Petalos di Pauli we love the new "Pansies in a Basket" LOVE stamp. Why? Just take a look:

We think the USPS will be selling quite a lot of these just in time for Mother's Day.

Pansies in a Basket stamp features the image of a white woven cart filled with deep and light purple pansies and green foliage. The floral design is a detail from a watercolor created by the late Dorothy Maienschein, an employee of Hallmark Cards, Inc. Introduced as a Mother’s Day card in 1939, Hallmark reissued the design as a friendship card in 1941. Since Hallmark began tracking sales in 1942, almost 30 million cards with this pansy cart design have been purchased; more than any card in history. The word “LOVE” adorns the left side of the stamp.
Source: shop.usps.com

Happy Earth Day 2010

2010-04-22T07:05:00.000-07:00

"Earth Day is the first completely international and universal holiday that the world has ever known. Every other holiday was tied to one place, or some political or special event. This Day is tied to the Earth itself, and to the place of the Earth in the whole solar system."

- Margaret Mead, 1977

Today is Earth Day and we at Petalos di Pauli are sharing some great ways to make the Earth a "greener" place, while also having some fun.

Grow an avocado tree!

If you eat avocados, it's easy to sprout the seeds into air-purifying, carbon-fixing houseplants. Its easy (even your kids can do it!) and instructions abound on the Web. Here are some we found on howtodothings.com.

1. Find a ripe avocado. Avocado pits are most likely to grow if they come from a ripe fruit. When you eat the avocado pear, clean off the pit and then soak it for 48 hours in warm water. If you can keep the water warm (in a propagator or on top of a heater), then the pit will grow more quickly.

2. Find the top. Most avocado pits are egg-shaped, with the bottom broader than the top. Some are rounder, but the top is always smooth and the bottom, wrinkled.

3. Find a container. If you want to see the roots grow, you will need a clear container, such as a tumbler or a jar. Otherwise, a plant pot will do fine.

4. 'Plant' your pit. To see the roots grow, you need to suspend the pit above water. Find 3 or 4 toothpicks or hair grips and push them into the pit gently, until they will just support its weight. Then fill the container with warm water so that the bottom of the pit just touches the water. If you're using a plant pot, then bury the pit in potting compost so that half of the pit is still above the soil.

5. Keep warm. Warmth is the key to getting an avocado pit to grow. The ideal temperature is around 70 F. At this temperature, the pit should start to grow in around 10 days. At cooler temperatures, it can take 5 weeks.

6. Keep watered. Keep the water level in your container topped up so that the pit is just touching the water. If you planted your pit in compost, then keep it moist - putting it in a plastic bag will help.

7. Keep an eye out for growth. The first sign of life will be root growth, which will not be visible if your pit is planted in compost. Only when the roots have started to grow will the pit send out a shoot. If the water goes cloudy and starts to smell before this happens, then your pit will not grow. If this happens, it probably wasn't fertile to begin with, and you should start again with a fresh pit.

8. Pinch out the main shoot when it is 6 inches long. This is to help make a bushy plant rather than a tall tree. It may leave your avocado with no leaves, but don't worry - it will grow a new shoot and new leaves in about a week.

9. Re-pot. Your avocado plant can survive on just water for several weeks. When the roots are well developed, plant the avocado in potting soil in a small pot. It will be happy there for several months.

10. Move into a final pot. When the avocado looks too large for its pot, or unhappy, it is time to replant it in a 10-inch pot, which will be its permanent home. It will probably be 2 feet tall before this is necessary.

11. Pruning. Your avocado wants to grow into a tree, and you will need to keep pruning it to keep it bushy and manageable. Simply cut back shoots that are too long.

12. Ongoing maintenance involves feeding with liquid feed every two weeks when the avocado is actively growing. Every 3 or 4 years, replant it in the same pot with some fresh potting soil. Your avocado will need plenty of light and water plus an occasional misting and dusting.

Looking for some other ways to be "green"? Here are a few websites we discoverd:

Our company can provide some great "green" choices for your wedding or special events. How about invitations printed on sustainable paper sources?

Find a local brewery and take a tour or pick up a selection of brews to enjoy at home. http://www.beertown.org/

Making is often greener than buying. One great site for inspiration and how tos: http://www.instructables.com/

Got new or lightly used running shoes you're looking to unload? One World Running will send them to runners in need around the world. (If they're deemed too worn, shoes go to Nike's Reuse-a-Shoe program instead, and wind up paving a playground.) Learn more at http://www.oneworldrunning.blogspot.com/

http://www.babyplays.com/ is the Netflix of toys. Yes, the shipping comes with a CO2 price tag, but on the balance, its green: Renting toys instead of buying them means less plastic in the world. (And in the landfill.) No wee ones in your life? The subscription makes a great gift.

Images by Maria Keays and emdot via Flickr, used under a Creative Commons license.

An Invitation to "Blooms With A View"

2010-04-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

As multitudes of colorful flowers flourish this time of year, so do Southern California garden tours. I am especially excited about United Home Owners Association’s upcoming “Blooms With a View.”

"Blooms With A View"
Spring Garden Tour & Vendor Fair
Sunday, May 2, 2010

Showcasing award-worthy Los Angeles gardens

in View Heights, View Park
and Windsor Hills

As a vendor, I get to immerse myself in the collective enthusiasm of fellow garden lovers. The Vendor Fair is a great opportunity to see some of our latest designs in person. Items available for purchase will include botanical stationery, greeting cards and gift wrap. We will also have a supply of things we love, such as artistic blossoming teas, and the latest in tea ware, including the ever popular Perfect Steeper. Ideal for Mother's Day gift giving.

Tickets are now on sale

At the Vendor Fare you can take part in the Plant Swap and Pot Exchange

Plant Swapping - Contribution of clippings,

bulbs, plants, or seeds SWAPPED for equal value

Pot Exchange - Bring your old garden pots and exchange for another - gardeners love old pots!

Nurturing my own garden awakened a passion for experimenting and playing with flowers. My imagination put blooms to paper, and eventually lead to designing handcrafted greeting and note cards. Eight years later, I still cherish my connection with nature and consider “the garden” the birthplace of Petalos di Pauli.

I hope to see you at "Blooms With a View."

Sincerely,

Paula Estes

Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

Vendor fair and plant swap runs from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. at Monteith Park, 3685 Olympiad Drive. Ticket prices are $10 in advance and $15 the weekend of the event. You can buy your tickets online for $10 plus a $1 handling fee ($11 per ticket).

Fresh Garden Mint Is Perfect for Steeping

2010-04-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

What a rainy day in Southern California today! Days like this make a hot cup of tea even more enjoyable. While I have not yet incorporated mint leaves into a greeting card (give me time), this prolific botanical does make regular appearances inside my Perfect Steeper, a loose tea steeper so brilliantly designed that I've given it the official THINGS WE LOVE stamp.

My garden provides a perpetual supply of mint, and I often offer the just picked leaves to clients who visit my studio. But when I'm not brewing a pot I prefer to use the Perfect Steeper. I also use it when I'm on the go and enjoy drinking it right from the tumbler at meetings and when traveling.

The Perfect Steeper can be purchased from our On-line Boutique. Click on THINGS WE LOVE.

Why I'm just like this snail

2010-04-01T10:10:00.000-07:00

While tending my garden, it occurred to me how much I have in common with this little flower pot. Both our previous careers involved working in an office! My buddy here dispensed tape. And I dispensed information and implemented software for businesses. Now we both get to work outdoors, and we both have a fondness for all types of succulents.

While the garden is a common denominator, there is another trait I share with the snail; we both honor the pace of a tedious and complicated process. People have commented that they would never have the patience to accent flowers with tiny glass marbles, or spiraled wire stems. And the thought of filling an order for hundreds of custom cards wrinkles their forehead.

Growing from hobby to full-time business has imposed a limit on the time I spend clipping, pressing and gluing with my own hands. But when I do, I find those tasks to be therapeutic and somewhat grounding, and a good time to get some thinking done.

What kinds of things do I ponder? Eco-friendly ideas like, how I could use Zebra Grass for gift wrapping, or ways to re-purpose a ceramic snail tape dispenser that no longer serves a need. I must confess, I simply adore the outcome of that one!

It just goes to show you, one never knows what life has in store. This seemingly meaningless tape dispenser produces such beauty in the world. That is my hope for what my business brings to people everyday, through the process of designing or giving a botanical work of art, or being the happy recipient.

Thoughtfully,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist and
Creative Thinker

Spring Inspiration

2010-03-29T11:27:00.000-07:00

As we welcome the Spring 2010 Experience, I am inspired by the explosion of new energy that it brings! It calls for bursts of COLOR and design elements that SURPRISE, like these colorful leather envelope cases.

LEATHER is hardly new, but when hot spring colors are combined with vibrant botanicals, an invitation or acknowledgment can go from KEEPSAKE to fun ACCESSORY in a heartbeat.

A LEATHER ENVELOPE CASE is a presentation option suitable for 5 x 7 inch cards or smaller. Or wouldn't they be great for presenting members of your bridal party with a collection of PHOTO MEMORIES and a handwritten expression of gratitude? We carry more than a dozen dazzling color combinations that promote the SUNNY spirit of SPRING.

My hope is that you are already enjoying the wonders of the season as much as I am. I look forward to sharing more fun ideas from the garden and studio of Petalos di Pauli.

Cheerfuly,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist and
Object of Spring Fever

Our Madame Chocolat Greeting Card

2010-03-19T14:26:00.000-07:00

What is more luxurious than fine chocolate? This Petalos di Pauli handcrafted greeting card was designed especially for Madame Chocolat after owner chocolatier Chef Hasty Torres raved about an invitation design in my portfolio. Hasty wished for a similar design but one that would bring chocolate to mind.

We made this card hers by bringing in Celadon Green that colors the walls of her Beverly Hills chocolate factory and boutique. We layered papers of the same metallic cream and brown hues that her fans will recognize as signature Madame Chocolate packaging. Finally, we used designs from Hasty's exquisite truffles as our inspiration for the cover and interior design.

This card will remind the recipient that chocolate is wonderful… in any language! “Chocolat” is adorned with hand calligraphy, the word chocolate translated into a baker’s dozen different languages. The finishing touches included the elements that Hasty loved about my original design, a variety of real garden flowers, Swarovski crystals and other 3-dimensional ornamentation. I think Hasty's card turned out Delightfully Sweet!

I became a true fan of Madame Chocolat after attending one of Hasty's chocolate workshops. Words cannot begin to express the pleasure of that hands-on experience. There is so much to learn and love about chocolate. Her place is filled with chocolate delicacies I hadn't known existed and it turned out to be perfect for gift shopping just before the holidays. If you love chocolate or just want to learn more about it, I recommend you attend her upcoming workshop this Sunday March 21st, in celebration of American Chocolate Week. Let her know Paula sent you.

This CHOCOLAT card and other handcrafted stationery are available for purchase at the Petalos di Pauli On-line Boutique.

Happy American Chocolate Week!

Sincerely,
Paula Estes
Botanical Artist and
Lover of Chocolate

Celebrating American Chocolate Week

2010-03-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

We have already received many wonderful stories about Chocolate from our readers. Thanks for responding to our request! Here is one of our favorite submissions:

"When I'm really seeking Chocolate I take my time and choose my poisons wisely; because calories are at stake and I aint waisting my time on just any kind of chocolate. I can usually satisfy my sweet tooth with a simple butter cream from Sees. When I go hard; I usually end up at the Grand Lux with a slice of the Chocolate Molten Lava Cake.. This is best when shared with someone who is equally fond of chocolate and is equally fond of you. Sooo tasty. I use a spoon because you're given a tiny scoop of vanilla ice cream, personally I don't indulge ice cream often (lactose intolerant) but it kicks it up a notch, especially when the ice cream melts perfectly around the plate, which is drizzled with a combination of white and dark chocolate sauce. It's something about using a spoon that makes you feel like a kid again. It's like when your grandma or Nano would bake a cake and give you permission to lick the bowl or spoon Hmmm Hmmm good. I like to follow my Molten Cake experience with a dry red; A Merlot or Cabby is the perfect ending."

Thank you for sharing those delicious details, Crystal!

So now you might be wondering... "Where is the Grand Lux Cafe?" Read on! "The idea for Grand Lux Cafe came to life when The Venetian Resort, Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas asked David Overton, Founder of The Cheesecake Factory Restaurants, to create an upscale casual restaurant concept for their property. Blending the grandeur and luxury of European cafes with the sensibilities and spirit of an all-American restaurant, 'Grand Lux Cafe' was born. Today, with locations in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and Houston, Grand Lux Cafe is proud to offer our guests unique, casual global cuisine in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere."

If you would like to make your own molten chocolate cake at home, try:
Martha Stewart's Molten Chocolate Cupcakes
(Makes 16 cupcakes)
Ingredients
12 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup (4 ounces) heavy cream
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
4 large eggs
4 large egg yolks
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons flour
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions
1. Make ganache: Place 4 ounces chocolate in a small heatproof bowl. In a small pan over medium-high heat, warm cream until it begins to boil. Pour cream over chocolate. Let stand a few minutes, then mix until smooth. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, about 1 hour. Use 1-inch ice cream scoop to make balls; place on parchment-lined tray, close but not touching. Freeze 1 hour, or airtight up to 3 days.

2. Make batter: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a muffin tin with paper liners. In a medium bowl set over a pan of simmering water, heat remaining 8 ounces chocolate with butter until melted. Meanwhile, with a mixer, whisk together eggs, yolks, and sugar until pale and thick, about 5 minutes. Quickly fold egg mixture into chocolate until almost completely incorporated. Sift flour and salt over mixture, and fold in.

3. Divide batter among liners, filling halfway. Add ganache ball to each. Cover with batter, almost to top.

4. Bake until just set, 8 minutes. Transfer tin to rack to cool for 10 minutes (cakes will fall). With a small offset spatula, gently remove from tin. Serve warm.

American Chocolate Week

2010-03-09T17:04:00.000-08:00

Did you know that St. Patrick's Day is not the only holiday in March? The third week of March is American Chocolate Week! Although it may not have the tradition that St. Patrick's Day has, this can be a fun way to show your friends and family that you are thinking of them. Some more good news is that it lasts an entire week! So for those that lead busy lives, you have a week to give a gift. Here are a couple of ideas to help you celebrate the week:

Buy chocolate from a special vendor
Any major city has it's specialty chocolate shops and American Chocolate Week can be a great "excuse" to indulge in a special treat. You can surprise your spouse or a friend with something extra special, maybe they will even share it with you!

In the Los Angeles area, where the Petalos di Pauli studio is located, we love Compartes Chocolatier for their delicious handmade confections as well as their whimsical modern artistry.

Chocolatier, Jonathan Grahm says his unique and eclectic creations are made "from our heart to yours," which reminds us at Petalos di Pauli of our design and business philosophies. Each element of the design treated as important, results in an experience that delights more than just one of your senses. Which leads us to....

Stationery to go with your Chocolate Gift
So, with your unique chocolate gift chosen for your "Chocophile," we suggest a unique stationery item to present with your gift. Petalos di Pauli created just the thing; a card highlighting the wonders of chocolate.

The perfect card for American Chocolate Week, or anytime!
A handmade card that expresses how we really feel about chocolate!

In honor of American Chocolate Week we would like to ask our readers to email us their stories about how chocolate has been special in your life. The first five responders will receive one of the handmade original cards pictured above as a thank you for joining our celebration! Next week's Blog will feature our favorites. Email us at Chocolate@PetalosdiPauli.com

My Brother-in-law's wedding invitation

2010-03-04T08:58:00.000-08:00

Here are pictures of the invitation I created recently for my brother-in-law's wedding. His bride wanted gold, burgundy and real flowers incorporated into the invitation design. The groom wanted whatever would make her happy. Isn't he wonderful!

A Few of My favorite Things

2010-02-28T13:50:00.000-08:00

I am really looking forward to time in the studio today. It’s one of those days where the garden and studio blend into one, and there is no place I would rather be.

No iTunes for now. Singing birds, wind chimes and falling water provide the perpetual soundtrack to my designing whims. All the players know their role and there is perfect harmony here.

Upon observing the promise of the day, I was eager to see my 3 ½ mile power walk to completion. And I confess, part two of my workout, my yoga postures, was a bit hurried in anticipation of what was to come.

One of my favorite rituals is to take on creative tasks after I have adorned myself with my treasures. So today I am wearing a top given to me by my friend Donna. It was hers before it was mine. She is a creative and spiritual being, also a fellow musician. I like that this colorful clothing has a history with her. I am sure that’s why it always feels so wonderful to wear it.

I’m also wearing a favorite ring that I purchased for myself. It’s sharing the right hand with a charm bracelet that was a gift from my mother.

My left wrist, also charmed, honors my husband and celebrates 3 years of being cancer free.

It’s time to stop writing and dive into the sea of bliss that awaits. Although my studio is a hop, skip and a jump away from Disneyland. For me, today this is the happiest place on earth.

Joyfully Yours,
Paula Estes
Botanical Artist and
Fan of Rituals

Poppy Love

2010-02-22T16:49:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite botanicals to design with is the poppy, a colorful, vibrant flower. Against paper they have the appearance of a fine translucent fabric, adding interest and beauty to a hand crafted note card or invitation.

I enjoy having poppies as members of my garden family during the first few months of the year. I get to witness the remarkable unfolding of each blossom, and sip tea in the multi colored luxury of their beauty.

Below are pictures of the very first to arrive last weekend. I stepped outside of the studio to welcome them and record the moment.

Prior to blooming , hairy stems supporting swollen
buds have a fascinating “from another planet” look.

You don't know what color flower you are getting
until it opens; usually white, yellow, orange or red.

The reveal is as awesome as a butterfly shedding its cocoon.

Crumpled petals break through their shell and reach for the sky.

There’s more poppy love to come, from the garden and studio of Petalos di Pauli. Until then, take time to breathe and enjoy the miracles of each day.

Joyfully Yours,

Paula Estes
Botanical Artist
Petalos di Pauli

Ceremony Magazine Features South Asian Creations

2010-02-11T23:10:00.000-08:00

Petalos di Pauli is always thrilled to be among the vendors chosen to be featured in Ceremony magazine. The current Orange County issue features two offerings from our South Asian Wedding Invitation line. Paula Estes, owner and designer for Petalos di Pauli, draws from her passion and expertise to create a uncommon blend of modern western and traditional South Asian cultures into her line of wedding invitations. Petalos di Pauli is known as the "designers of elegant, handmade stationery embellished with real botanicals for your special event." Paula's knowledge of South Asian customs and ceremonies, means that the cultural background of your event will be honored while creating a unique but traditional wedding invitation.

At Petalos di Pauli we specialize in custom invitations and stationery. The myriad of paper choices in a variety of textures are just the beginning of the design experience. We have over ten thousand design elements to help you create the invitation of your dreams.

Petalos di Pauli Custom Invitation

Often when planning a South Asian wedding, couples feel limited in their invitation choices. They may only know of a couple of local stores or websites that offer ethnic wedding cards. Petalos di Pauli's reputation for great customer service is complemented by Paula's passion and sincere desire to deliver a product that exceeds every client's expectations. You can come into our studio and hold samples of our high quality invitations, experiencing the excitement that your guests will experience when they receive your wedding invitation. We will help you put all the pieces together, including stylish presentations designed to hold multiple inserts.

Petalos di Pauli Custom Invitation

Weddings are filled with tradition and history, whether it is South Asian or another culture. At Petalos di Pauli we strive to make your wedding invitations announce your wedding with all of the style and tradition that is uniquely yours. After all, at Petalos di Pauli, we have our traditions too. Namely, providing invitations that help fulfill your dreams for your wedding.

Letters and Kisses

2010-02-01T01:10:00.000-08:00

What do a handwritten letter and a kiss have in common? Perhaps more than one might imagine. I’ve always felt that a kiss actually begins the moment you think about kissing someone, and that the prelude and wonderment of the gesture serves the purpose of extending that pleasure.

Likewise, the enjoyment of a card or letter starts with the wrapper, displaying my name in the unique handwriting of my correspondent. And, like a kiss, I find the anticipation leading to the experience exciting and thought provoking. A mini mystery, if you will: a sealed envelope, delivered by a government agent, intended for my eyes only! Sometimes the color or texture of an envelope evokes a mood and can elevate my level of enthusiasm, with the stamp and postmark adding interest, depending on their point origin.

Clearly, I savor the experience of receiving old fashioned snail mail. With so many options for social communication, handwritten expression strikes me as a truly personal exchange. You might know people who have taken the task to the nth degree with, for example, a perfumed envelope and a lipstick kissed flap. For me, that person is Oma who used to send me cards whose envelopes were almost entirely covered with stickers! Although she died last year, I will always think of her with a smile, remembering the special way she brightened my days.

Of course, I also love being on the sending end of beautiful stationery, which in part lead to the creation of Petalos di Pauli. Over the past 7 years it has been a pleasure serving those who, like me, relish the experience of an almost forgotten art.

In closing, I'll offer a reminder: "Life is short" and encourage everyone to write often and kiss passionately. And may both expressions of sentiment leave lasting impressions on the people you love.

Paula Estes

Botanical Artist and

Promoter of Sentiments

Bloomin' News

2010-01-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled to announce that Petalos di Pauli is featured as the cover story in the January-February 2010 issue of The Bloomin' News, a well know trade magazine published by the American Florists' Exchange/Los Angeles Flower Market.

The Bloomin' News featured Petalos di Pauli because of Paula Estes's unique use of botanicals in her stationery designs. Paula views the Los Angeles Flower District as an extension of her design "tool box," offering a wide assortment of flowers that translate into a rich color palette. The Flower Market provides Paula with the means to obtain botanicals that are difficult to grow in her personal gardens. When filling large orders for cards or complete wedding ensembles, the Los Angeles Flower District is an invaluable resource.

The Bloomin' News is published by the American Florists' Exchange / Los Angeles Flower Market every other month (January, March, May, July, September and November). The publication was started in October 1949 by the Southern California Floral Association, which operated the two major wholesale flower markets (Los Angeles Flower Market and Southern California Flower Market, the largest wholesale flower district in the United States) that, along with storefront vendors, today comprise the Los Angeles Flower District in the 700 block of Wall Street in Los Angeles.

To read the article go to www.BloominNews.com

Bidding a fond farewell to 2009 and welcoming 2010!

2010-01-21T23:05:00.000-08:00

It may seem like we just got through the holidays, but we find ourselves well into January 2010. We would love to start the year off by sharing what made 2009 exciting for us, as well as what we are looking forward to in 2010. The 2009 holiday season was a treat in part because Petalos di Pauli was selected to design and handcraft 400 unique Seasonal Greeting Cards for Ceremony Magazine and CaliforniaWeddingWave.com. To be selected out of so many talented designers was an honor for us.

Paula Estes, owner of Petalos di Pauli, has always been known for her exceptional client relationships and it was those relationships that inspired Paula to explore new territory and form new friendships within the Indian Community. Paula teamed up with Amy Shah Patel of Planning Elegance, and participated in our first South Asian Bridal Show. In an effort to meet our clients' event visions, we now carry Charu's Wedding Collection from India, which offers a wide selection of exquisite and ornate Hindu, Muslim and Sikh wedding cards and accessories.

Our custom stationery line was enhanced last year by continuing to grow to include stationery for all of life's special events. One such custom design was a Photo Card that served as a "Thank you" for each guest attending a 50th Birthday Celebration. The client asked us to design the cards, as well as a sentiment that touched on the goodness of life and friendship. At the client's celebration, a picture was taken of each guest that was later incorporated into the design.

Petalos di Pauli continues with its efforts to make our planet a better place. We have discovered new ways to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle and our company tries to share as much knowledge as possible. We have also contributed to the fundraising efforts of organizations such as UNICEF, St. Mary's Medical Center, and Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center, among others.

As we look forward into 2010, Petalos di Pauli will continue to grow, while still giving our clients the excellence they have come to expect. In our upcoming Blogs, expect to hear from our founder and lead designer, Paula Estes. Those who have worked with her, clients and colleagues, know her well. Now in 2010, Paula has vowed to connect on a broader and more personal level, bringing "off-line" adventures "on-line" and sharing her inspiration. Paula's educational knowledge, combined with her entertaining wit, will provide for great blogs this year!

Look for an announcement of our Online Store opening soon. We will be carrying a line of Social Stationery, Greeting Cards and Note Cards. These beautiful creations, perfect for gift giving or personal use, will be embellished with the botanical artistry for which we have become known. Let 2010 be the year that you express yourself through the design concepts that make Petalos di Pauli your source for unique stationery using real flowers. Happy New Year!

Ancient and Lovely Ginkgo Leaves

2009-11-03T14:37:00.000-08:00

In her studio, Paula has been designing an invitation using Ginkgo Leaves. The leaves are beautiful and versatile, and because of their history, they are a strong botanical component on which to build an invitation design.

The Ginkgo is a "living fossil," whose relatives date back 270 million years. Because it is such an ancient plant, it has been important in many cultures, including the Chinese and Japanese. Confucius is said to have spent time reading, reflecting and teaching under such a tree – this has led the ginkgo biloba tree to have a special meaning in Confucianism.

“The neutral golden or green leaves pair easily with other design elements. The elegant shape makes it an ideal botanical to design with,” says Paula.

Weaving a Floral Theme Into Your Wedding

2009-10-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

Your wedding theme does not have to be limited to just a color... How about incorporating flowers or other botanicals throughout your wedding? Every part of your wedding, from the invitations to the programs to the cake, can be inspired by a floral choice. For example, if you love red roses, an arrangement of real dried roses on a handmade invitation can be something that your guests have never seen. Not only is this a beautiful invitation, but it conveys that you are elegant as well as unique, and your event will be nothing less. Your rose theme begins in the invitation and is carried to your ceremony in your wedding flowers. You can also present red roses to your and your fiancé’s mothers during the ceremony. At the reception, you can echo your theme in menus on the tables and your wedding cake. The invitations are just the beginning!

Petalos di Pauli Signature Invitation

Tiffany and Chocolate Brown Cake

Petalos di Pauli Signature Invitation

Black, White and Red Cake

Ceremony Magazine Event at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa

2009-10-23T10:42:00.000-07:00

On October 20, 2009 Paula Dulan Estes, owner and designer for Petalos di Pauli, set out "to be dazzled" as an invited guest to Ceremony Magazine's annual party for advertisers and friends of the magazine. Paula was honored to have been included. She has had a wonderful working relationship with Ceremony Magazine for some time now, and her work will be featured again in their next issue.

As promised the event was "dazzling." It was held at Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. The venue has been voted a Top U.S. resort by both Readers' Choice Awards and by Conde Nast Traveler, and is popular for both parties and weddings. Why are they such a popular venue for weddings? The resort's website reads, "The spirit of romance in Rancho Santa Fe began when Douglas Fairbanks and Mary Pickford rode horseback across the valley at the beginning of their great romance in the 1920's. This romance continues today at Rancho Valencia Resort. Forty acres of lush landscaping, bubbling fountains, dramatic views, impeccable service and award winning cuisine are the hallmarks of Rancho Valencia. This intimate and unique setting is the perfect backdrop for your wedding day celebrations."

What a perfect place for Ceremony to hold its annual party! The grounds were transformed by some of Southern California's finest wedding professionals such as Raj Tents and Wildflower Linen. The "Cuisine in Casablanca" theme was captured visually in beautiful teals, reds and oranges and deliciously expressed with foods prepared by exclusive local caterers.

For a lovely pictorial account of the event, visit our friends at Skybox Event Productions. Thank you, Amy and Jim Harrick for holding such a spectacular event! Look for our new South Asian Line of Invitations to be debuted in the February Issue!

Calligraphy

2009-10-13T15:38:00.000-07:00

Ginny Moore owner of Calligraphy, Ink, calligraphyinkstudio.com , was intergral in the design of our popular LOVE invitation which is currently featured in Your Wedding Day magazine. We recently asked Ginny about her work and this is what she shared with us:

Q: Paula has received great response to her LOVE invitation, which you helped design. What was your experience like working on the LOVE invitation?

A: For one thing, I loved working with Paula. She is so sweet, fun and artistic. She gave me an idea of what she wanted for the invitation, but she also really let me be creative with it. I have lots of different styles and even pen types I love to use in my calligraphy, but I rarely get to use more than one style per job. This is such a fun opportunity to get imaginative and really use lots of different looks together to play up the whimsical design.

Q: You mentioned your different styles of calligraphy. We have had customers ask us why they should pay for a calligrapher if they have a computer. Why should someone use a calligrapher instead of printing addresses out with their computers at home?

A: For one, etiquette and tradition require hand-addressed envelopes for wedding invitations. Even if you can’t afford a calligrapher, the envelopes should be hand-addressed, even if it’s by the bride or a friend with nice handwriting. It stands out as such a personal touch in a world of emails and texting. Another reason is calligraphy really makes a statement. When your envelopes are beautifully calligraphed, it says to the guests that you take great pride in this event and it is something to be greatly anticipated! After all, the envelope will be the very first thing the guests see as a glimpse of the wedding! A gorgeous, hand-calligraphed envelope is striking and memorable. Finally, using a calligrapher greatly reduces time and stress over one of the most worrisome aspects of planning a wedding: the guest list. Calligraphers have been saving busy brides hours upon hours for years and years!

Thanks so much Ginny!

Working with Organized Light

2009-10-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

Andreas Castaňeda is a talented photographer and a very nice person. His company is called Organized Light. I had the opportunity to work with him recently, and his photos were beautiful. Here is what Andreas wrote on his blog about our shoot:

Sep 17
Unique. Botanical. Beautiful. Artistic.
A few weeks ago, I had the great pleasure to photograph the creative work of Paula Estes, owner of Petalos di Pauli http://www.petalosdipauli.com/. Paula Estes, is a Botanical Artist who combines paper with natural elements to create unique stationery, invitations and gift wrap. Paula specializes in incorporating real flower petals, leaves and grasses into her designs. Her custom designed event stationery consists of coordinated ceremony and reception pieces, such as programs, menu and table cards, as well as complete invitation suites. Her work has been featured in magazines including Ceremony, Your Wedding Day and Special Events Magazine as well as being featured on Lifetime Network's Get Married with Colin Cowie in a segment called "The growing trend in bridal of going green."

Paula's hair and make up were done by Tara Dowburd-Luftman, a well sought after Make-up Artist and founder of Make Up Therapy www.makeuptherapy.com, a stylist studio that caters to red carpet events, film shoots and luxury weddings. On my drive back to the office, I was thinking about how I am always surprised at the amazing talent that is out there, and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to work with such talented folks that love what they do and do what they love. The images below are of her amazing work. Take a look and visit her site to see more of her custom work.

YWD Magazine

2009-09-29T18:21:00.000-07:00

Hitting the newsstands today, September 29th is the Fall/Winter 2009 edition of Your Wedding Day Magazine. This edition features Petalos di Pauli! It was an honor for Paula to be chosen for this photo layout highlighting several different invitation designs. The magazine is available at Borders and Barnes & Noble. Check it out!

Wild for Zebra Grass

2009-09-01T04:27:00.000-07:00

What's new from the Garden and Studio of Petalos di Pauli?
Zebra Grass!

Photographed by Organized Light

Consider this post an Obsession Confession. I just can't stop loving the celadon and yellow corkscrewed blades, created by wrapping them around a chopstick and drying.

Photographed by Paula Estes

Zebra Grass is prolific, yielding heaps of fun fodder for naturally beautiful gift wrapping. A perfect pairing with Recycled Kraft Boxes. It's stunning in the garden and on a gift makes a dazzling finishing touch.

4 Reasons to Write Thank You Notes

2009-07-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

1. One does not need to wait for November to be thankful. Writing thank you notes can help us experience a sense of gratitude in our everyday lives year round.

2. Being grateful can make us aware of our blessings and thankful for them.

3. Writing a personal thank you gives us the opportunity to relive the pleasure that caused us to be grateful in the first place.

4. Writing thank you notes can serve as a stress reliever, forcing us to slow down and enjoy a few moments of quiet.

Why not express your sentiments in one of our beautifully handcrafted thank you cards, ordered off-the-shelf or custom designed to match your personality or wedding stationery.

How to Make Grass Place Card Holders

2009-07-26T17:26:00.000-07:00

Fountain Grass was a wonderful, sustainable, not to mention creative, choice for place card holders. We trimmed bundled blades to size then secured the ends with pairs of gold plated rhinestone beads, which were easily removed for reuse after the event.

These place card holders were part of the Elegant Tropical Rainforest tablescape featured in Special Events Magazine.

Other dried grasses or natural elements can be used to create a similar design. You'll need at least 2 stems or blades to form a slot for holding the place card, and the right sized bead to fit over the ends. Or jute or wire could be used to secure the ends; the possibilities are endless.

A Night In Bollywood

2009-07-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

The Los Angeles Chapter of the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) presented a stellar South Asian experience at the beautiful and upscale Tanzore Restaurant in Beverly Hills.
I loved the combination of high energy and exotic beauty created by the lighting, music, colorful tents and stunning floral arrangements.

Gaylord’s Lotus Room, a banquet facility which sits adjacent to the restaurant, was designed specifically to allow this type of event to cast its own thematic influence.

A rhythmic performance by NDM Dance Troupe, choreographed by Nakul Dev Mahajan of “So You Think You Can Dance” fame provided a break from handshaking and card trading and an opportunity to devour appetizers and enjoy the show. Fans of the tasty Indian finger food made second (possibly third) trips to the buffet.

The climax of the evening was the live drumming performed on top of hypnotic tracks played by DJ Shark. A lot of us had no choice but to put down our handbags and beverages and give in to the thunderous beats that lured us onto the dance floor.

Tanzore Restaurant is not only known for its India Modern or Fusion cuisine, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) announced it winner of the Los Angeles 2007 Restaurant Design Award. I encourage you to take a tour and experience the sensual sophisticated ambience for yourself. There are many options for hosting gatherings. Nikki Sood, director of sales and events, can coordinate large festive events for up to 400 guests or intimate gatherings of 10 in a multitude of settings. Most private rooms as well as the Bar/Lounge are well equipped with features such as BOSE speakers, flat screen TVs and projectors.

“A Night in Bollywood” turned out to be a talented sampling of premier special events industry professionals. The combined expertise of these showcasing sponsors created a fun and memorable experience that I will gladly share with my local clients who might need some or all of their services for their own upcoming celebration. Events like this make us proud to be members of ABC Greater Los Angeles. Thank you to the following businesses that made the event a success:

Sid Khera, Aspect Lighting

Jeffrey Bullied, Jeffrey Bullied Photography

Minal Chaudhary, Mehndi Artist

Doyle Borden, My Flower Guy

Anupma Parks, NDM Productions

DJ Shark

Maurice Walsh, Raj Tents

Nikki Sood, Tanzore

Mini Red Roses

2009-06-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Red Roses deliver classic beauty to fine stationery. Each unique stem . . .

renders a hand fashioned invitation into a one-of-a-kind work of art . . .

and compliments . . .

your choice of color palette.

The Special Event 2009

2009-06-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

The lush rainforest of Latin America and the colorful costumes of its indigenous people inspired this tabletop design—a conception of Nesly’s Floral Design & Events. When the company principal Nesly Palacios invited us to participate in the recent Special Events’ Tabletop Gallery, we couldn’t imagine a theme more suited to our area of expertise than “Elegant Tropical Rainforest.” All of the elements that were included in the design represented facets of nature!

From the centerpiece—a tall banana tree surrounded by orchids and other tropical favorites—to snakeskin chair covers and pebbled dishware on feather place mats there was no lack of jungle inspiration. We mounted our menu cards on tree bark and embellished them with blades of bejeweled fountain grass. As a finishing touch they were each topped with a beautifully beaded butterfly.

Nesly’s vision was to create a table to suit a themed event for a corporate client or a bridal couple “looking to celebrate their nontraditional nuptials.”

Nesly’s team included: Chameleon Chair Collection, chairs and chair covers; Designer Specialty Linens, linen; Events by JEM, design; Petalos di Pauli, place cards and menu cards

Beautiful Church Estate Vineyards

2009-06-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

Maja Church Haggstrom hosted an elegant garden luncheon last month at the family owned Church Estate Vineyards . We were delighted to be among the guests who enjoyed libations and live entertainment in a picturesque setting that included a handsome boathouse flanking a swan-graced lake.

At lunch guests were seated eye level with tree tops. The panoramic view included the gardens and lake below.

Our company designed the menu-programs for the event. They carried the hydrangea theme of the invitation and completed the magnificent tabletops. It was quite an honor to collaborate with the talent of Cameleon Chairs, Mille Flori Florist, and Wildflower Linens.

The menu was the vision of Pauline Parry of Good Gracious Events. She had me from the start with small cube boxes filled with steak fries drizzled with truffle oil! They were one of many creative and delicious passed hors d'ouvres served lakeside.

Ladies Night Out

2009-06-09T12:20:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, June 10 we surround ourselves in chocolate at Madame Chocolat of Beverly Hills. From 6pm to 10pm ladies will be singled out to receive special attention, namely hors d'ouvres, specialty drinks, chocolate tasting, entertainment, raffle, and a shopping experience that includes a brand new collection of botanical note cards from Petalos di Pauli.

Come and enjoy a night out with the ladies. . .
Leave with a gift bag.

Wednesday, June 10th 6-10pm
$10 per person for entry
Tickets must be purchased in advance on-line

Email us at ladiesnightout@petalosdipauli.com
for a chance to win 2 free tickets.

Church Estate Vineyards Garden Luncheon

2009-06-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

When Farla Binder asked us to design an invitation for Malibu’s Church Estate Vineyards we were delighted to put our Petalos behind such a magnificent garden-inspired event.

Setting the tone for a venue that resembled a Monet landscape put Petalos di Pauli’s production team in another panorama of sorts-mountains of vibrant hydrangea petals destined to fill some 150 invitation boxes.

Lead designer, Paula Estes, chose to feature hydrangeas because of their shades of blue and purple, which satisfied the event’s color palette. She also factored in the petal size, which was perfect for creating a floral band on the front cover of the invite. Paula echoed those design elements in the program-menu and it harmonized brilliantly with the gorgeous décor of Cameleon Chairs, Mille Fiori Florist, and Wildflower Linen. Stay tuned for stunning photos of the Church Estate Vineyard Garden Luncheon. The venue is truly a garden lover's paradise.

Our hydrangeas are locally grown under a certified green pest-control program and are processed with renewable wind energy. We love teaming them with Green Seal Certified papers to create beautiful and eco-friendly results. For more information on natural, eco-friendly petals send us an email.

How to Gift Wrap Japanese Style

2009-05-23T12:31:00.000-07:00

Custom wrapping is a great way to tie in beautiful papers used in your invitation with other areas of your special event. Present a fabulously wrapped present as a gesture of gratitude to your bridal party or add elegance and intrigue to your table top with wrapped favors your guests get to take home.

Using handmade papers and Mizuhiki paper cord, we show you a quick and easy technique inspired by the Japanese sense of style. We snapped pix while attending a hands-on workshop at the National Stationery Show. We had limited workspace so we had to execute this project on top of papers that went with the next project. Keep that in mind as you discern the images that illustrate each step.

Materials: Handmade papers such as Unryu (sheer mulberry paper with strands), Double-sided tape, Mizuhiki paper cords, a box.

Create a strip of paper from accent paper: Fold edge over 1
1/2" to 2", Moisten fold with wet cotton ball, Gently pull apart

Begin wrapping box with main paper

Position accent paper strip on top of on main
paper

Continue wrapping box, using a tiny bit of tape. Fold
in the ends as you would a typical gift wrap.

Tie 3 strands of Mizuhiki cord in square knot, then tuck the
ends inside the knot.

(Side View)

(Top View)

Our instructor was gift-wrap and Japanese papercraft expert Vicky Mihara Avery, producer and instructor on the Origami Workshop DVD lesson "The Japanese Art of Gift Wrapping." Using handmade papers from Mountain Valley Paper Company and Mizuhiki paper cords, Vicky shows how to layer, pleat, and tear papers for fast, easy and elegant results.

2009 National Stationery Show

2009-05-18T20:14:00.000-07:00

If you follow us on twitter you know that we are at Day 2 of the National Stationery Show in NYC. We are here to discover new and wonderful design elements to add to our growing menagerie. We've already added papers ranging from 100% cottons to brocade silks and other exotic beauties that are as tactile as they are visually appealing. I can't think of any place I'd rather be right now than navigating this showroom of high fashion paper and unique accessories. I can't wait to start designing your dream invitation!

Seven Simple Questions to Ask Before Buying Custom Invitations

2009-05-07T04:54:00.000-07:00

Before you commit to custom invitations, here are 7 prudent questions to ask.

What design elements are available to work with?
Will I have access to a designer during the entire design process?
Can we begin working even if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?
What if I don’t see exactly what I want in your portfolio/gallery?
How many changes am I permitted to make?
What turnaround time can I expect?
Must we meet in person in order to work together?

So that you may know us, we've answered those 7 simple questions below.

What design elements are available to work with?
We have over 10,000 materials available for your consideration, leaving your options for creating beauty and distinctive edge wide open. Swarovski crystals, rhinestones, pearls and beads are just a sampling of embellishments available to fashion stunning new looks. And when it comes to adding color, we offer more than just paper and ink choices. Our palette includes a garden of vibrant botanicals.

The work we do is completely personalized and one of a kind, created expressly for you and your special event. We invite couples to introduce their own design elements, for example sequins or lace from an heirloom wedding dress. We encourage them to express their personal style and create a look that is exclusively their own. Invitations made of unexpected materials such as fabric, wood, metal, and even acrylic are all within the realm of possibility. During our consultation we will brainstorm ideas and figure out what items will suit you best for your design needs.

Will I have access to a designer during the entire design process?
We believe that the only way to achieve the perfect representation of you and your event is through collaboration and dedication. During the entire design process you will have an open line of communication with a single designer.

Can we begin working even if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?
Absolutely! The process of creating the perfect statement for your special occasion starts with getting to know you. Each project begins with a complimentary consultation either by phone or in person. Discussing your personal style and tastes can lead us to an overall vision for your celebration. So don’t worry if you haven’t chosen colors, flowers or even the style of your dress. We will work with whatever information you can provide us. We can show you a collection of sample work to help stimulate your thinking.

What if I don’t see exactly what I want in your portfolio/gallery?
That’s fine! The purpose of the gallery is to give you an idea of the breadth and quality of our work and provide you with ideas for your project. Every aspect of a sample invitation set can be changed to fit your particular needs. We are capable of doing anything you need to do. Give us the parameters and we can execute it.

How many changes am I permitted to make?
There is no set limit of changes permitted. We promise that no design will go to print unless you are completely satisfied. During the design process you will have the opportunity to provide feedback and identify any modifications you want to make or new ideas you may wish to incorporate.

While excessive changes can affect the original agreed timeline, we are always willing to discuss your comments and will integrate your changes into a revised version that is submitted to you for approval. We want to make sure you get exactly what you want.

What turnaround time can I expect?
With custom design work, it is never too soon to get started, especially when embellishments start out as living flowers. Of course the more time we have to work with, the easier it is to achieve perfection. The timeframe we will ultimately agree to will depend on the complexity and scale of your project, anywhere from 8 weeks to 6 months.

Must we meet in person in order to work together?
Although Email is not necessarily a requirement we find it useful when working with clients near and far. We are willing to work with clients using the method of communication that fits their lifestyle or circumstances. Design drafts and proofs can be faxed or sent via post. Other delivery methods can also be arranged at the client’s expense. If you are located in the Southern California and would like to meet in person, this option is always available.

Interacting over the phone and email makes it easy to work with anyone no matter where they are in the world. Some clients, although local, might not have the time to meet in person and this is where modern technology is especially handy.

Visit Six Fabulous Private Gardens in Los Angeles

2009-05-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

We of the Garden Conservancy, believe that the best way to learn about gardens and appreciate them, is to simply spend more time in them. Through the Open Days Program more than 300 of America's private gardens will become open to the public in 2009. This Saturday, May 9 you're invited to explore first-hand examples of outstanding design and horticultural practice that are growing in the Los Angeles Area.

We're Giving You The Blues

2009-04-24T14:13:00.000-07:00

We like the way Navy Blue pairs with Silver-Grey. Add Blue Larkspur and Hydrangeas and you've got a case of the Blues.

Bling is optional.

Eco-Options include a Beautiful Silk Box and Organic, Renewable and Locally Grown Hydrangea petals. Silk is a Renewable and Biodegradable resource.

Happy Earth Day: Introducing Eco-Options

2009-04-22T00:09:00.000-07:00

In celebration of Earth Day 2009 we spotlight 2 invitations that feature a blend of Eco-Options and illustrate the concept of going green gradually. Eco-Options consist of elements and ideas, presented as design options, for creating green, eco-friendly invitations and stationery products. When making a decision to go green it doesn’t necessarily have to be all or nothing. Learn your options then pick the features that fit your style and budget. Petalos di Pauli will give you the facts to help guide you down the right path and honor your pace as you consider your personal eco-strategy.

Embellishing with beautiful blooms is our passion and these lovely ensembles take flora to the next level with mailer boxes cushioned with stunning color-coordinated petals. The use of hand-torn mulberry bark papers add a soft touch to invitations which we confess aren’t perfectly green, but make us none the less proud to bare. Staty tuned for a detailied list of ingredients.

Like it or not, everything we do has an "environmental impact quotient" that measures the risk our actions have on the environment. As earth citizens we should all be mindful about what and how we do things and make an ongoing effort to minimize negative impact. Petalos di Pauli believes in artistic expression with a sense of responsibility to work towards a safer, healthier and better world. With Eco-Options we make it possible to go green gradually and gorgeously.

Pay Me Now Or Pay Me Later

2009-04-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

When purchasing postage for my client’s Reply Card Envelopes, a well meaning government agent suggested the forty-two cent LOVE stamps. I expressed to him that with the postage rate increase taking effect May 11th and the client’s reply date set for May 13th, using a Forever Stamp would be the prudent choice. It’s doubtful that every guest reply would be postmarked before the forthcoming rate change or that all lagers would think to make up the difference. Spare yourself the nuisance of having to make good on dozens of “additional postage due” demands by being smart on the front end.

On May 11, 2009 the price for a 1-ounce First-Class Mail stamp will increase from 42¢ to 44¢. Forever Stamps — regardless of when purchased — can always be used to mail 1-ounce letters.

A Chocolate Lover's Anguish

2009-04-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

I recently designed TABLE CARDS for a wedding where CHOCOLATE was the THEME for the event. I don’t mean chocolate as in the color brown. I’m referring to that creamy, cocoa confection that melts in your mouth and is tough to resist. I CONFESS, I’m a chocoholic and production of this job was extremely distracting. The couple named guest tables after their favorite treats.

The RECEPTION STATIONERY featured luxurious, textured, cream matte paper. The TABLE CARDS were mounted on a rich, textured chocolate cardstock. Don’t they look scrumptious?

What is the most creative theme for table names that you’ve heard of? You can enter your comment at the end of this post.

Fortunately, a beautiful and well-stocked candy bar was readily available to satisfy all cravings.

From PLACE CARDS, MENUS, TABLE CARDS and PROGRAMS, Petalos di Pauli can design matching stationery essentials to give your entire event a polished feel.

A Soolip Wedding 2009

2009-04-05T08:08:00.000-07:00

Today marks a week since I attended this wedding showcase event. Since then, I've learned that when it comes to sharing pictures my memory card is a lot bigger than my window of opportunity. I apologize for the lapse. Here is the last group of photos, which begins with a series of shots highlighting the masterpiece of Patina Wedding. I love beautiful food and this melding of floral and edible art was a sight to behold.

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My customers appreciate products that are hand-crafted and well designed so I included pictures of the beautiful dinnerware displayed by HEATH CERAMICS. Consider them for your bridal registry. Here is a link to their website where you can see their work and learn about the company's history and values; really impressive.

A Soolip Wedding 2009

2009-04-01T23:23:00.001-07:00

As promised, here are more images captured last Sunday afternoon at the show. There are even more beautiful things to come. So do come back.

Stephanie Grace

Vanilla Bake Shop

A Soolip Wedding 2009

2009-03-31T12:57:00.000-07:00

If you attended A Soolip Wedding on Sunday you experienced Wanda Wen’s vision of beauty and inspiration first hand. As an industry professional, this “modern bridal event” really lived up to my expectations with quality vendors that represented well, and an exciting blend of content. The show was very well done.

If you missed out this sensational happening you’re in luck. I’m offering a week’s worth of consolation prizes in the form of photos and other highlights from the vendors, designers, experts and attendees that got busy at the Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles.

Entering Door #1

The Beautiful Angeleno Lounge

Fiore Beauty, booth designed by Lollipop Events & Designs

Avalane Flowers made a big impression on me. Look at those gorgeous water lilies! Yes, they are real. I almost spent as much time touching as I did gawking. I was drawn to the botanical beauty of this diplay. The designer is pictured in black. Her name is Ania Norwood.

Heather & Tony

2009-03-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

Heather and Tony described their VISION for their wedding invitation as “elegant”, “simple” and “celebration”. Those 3 words would guide us to the perfect invitation to announce their romantic garden event.

The creation of H&T’s invitation started with a brief phone conversation, followed by a BRAINSTORMING meeting at my studio in Cypress. Heather came prepared with a magazine picture of a wedding cake that inspired color possibilities. She described her wedding gown and examined font samples that ornately displayed their first names, while I made notes of her musings and ideas that would help our design take shape.

Since the couple lived in a neighboring city it was convenient for us to meet face-to-face. During the first hands-on session they experimented with combining and layering different colored cardstock. The COLOR choices had been narrowed down beforehand to a collection that met their expressed criteria, including shades that matched and complimented the wedding cake picture. The atmosphere was relaxed and perfect for enjoying a complimentary bottle of champagne. Note: While bubbly is an "on-site only" benefit, paper samples are gladly sent through the US mail.

With Antique Gold and Crème Brulee colors chosen as the perfect combination, we moved to the next task of considering various SHAPES AND SIZES for the main invitation and enclosures. We also considered elements that might embellish and enhance the design. Note: This is a step in the process that is sometimes handled using CAD (computer aided design) drawings to illustrate various design and layout configurations. With simulated paper colors and life-like clipart I am able to produce design concepts that are realistic, easily modified and convenient for emailing to clients.

Looking at BOTANICALS was the next order of business. And when H&T placed a reddish-burgundy Powder Puff blossom against the Crème Brulee, they loved it! We styled a hybrid flower for the top of the invitation; combining the Powder Puff with red-trimmed Heavenly Bamboo leaves, then added a smaller group of leaves to the bottom corner. From there, the ink colors and other design elements fell into place. Note: Petalos di Pauli maintains a seasonal inventory of flowers, leaves and natural elements. We are also happy to process custom requests for special colors and types of flowers.

A year after the wedding of Heather and Tony I still consider Tony the most “dynamic groom” I’ve worked with. Today he still ranks first for being the most enthusiastic and active male counterpart participating in the custom design process. His enthusiasm was taken to the nth degree when he had the entire invitation ensemble matted, framed and hung in their living room for everlasting enjoyment.

Happy Anniversary Heather & Tony! Thank you for being so much fun to work with.

New Website Launched

2009-03-28T23:13:00.000-07:00

One of my recent goals was to revamp the Petalos di Pauli website to give visitors a better viewing experience. Thanks to Leon White Design I already had a fabulous logo as a starting point. It was simple yet classy, and cleverly illustrative of my business. For the website, I needed a photo gallery, one that was easy to update and user-friendly for the viewer. After months of collaborating with Yuri Lee and the team at 360 View, the new site has finally launched with much success! It’s crisp, fresh, and easy to navigate. Even the analytics show that people are staying longer. Be sure to check it out (the blog too) periodically; new photos will be added often.

Welcome You Welcome Me

2009-03-28T14:02:00.000-07:00

This is my first Petalos di Pauli post, which gives me the odd sensation of talking to myself. I am oh so excited about rejoining the blogger community. It’s wonderful to have a place to share what’s beautiful, remarkable, amusing, and informative about my craft and industry.

Thank you for being a supporter of Petalos di Pauli. (Is there an echo in here?)