truth.be.told

Invitations - Anna & Jordan

2012-01-30T21:26:00.001+11:00

Last year I was lucky enough to work with lovely couple Anna and Jordan not once but twice - designing their engagement and wedding invitations.

For the wedding stationery, I took inspiration from the Alpine setting and the contemporary styling and details planned for the day. The colours of ghost gum trees form the colour palette of this set in the form of the combination of a simple cool grey, blue and textured white linen card stock.

As we were going for a more typograpghic based set, we kept decoration to a minimum using only a simple snowflake pattern. The simple snowflake motif featured on each part of the set to subtly tie all of the elements together.

I absolutely love the elegant result that we came to for this set and working with Anna throughout the whole process was so lovely.

So, without further explanation - here are a few images of the completed wedding stationery - enjoy!

Wedding stationery suite - Invitation, RSVP cards & order of service booklets

Wedding Invitations

RSVP cards

Order of ceremony booklets

Place cards

Snowflake and duck egg blue details

Film Clip Friday - Matt Corby 'Brother'

2012-01-27T09:00:00.000+11:00

My selection for FCF this week was a no brainer. Especially with yesterday being Australia Day and all, it seemed pretty appropriate to choose a clip from an Aussie artist.

So enjoy this weeks selection - it's Matt Corby's Brother. What's not to like - amazing voice, great lyrics, he has a beard. Enough said.

Happy Australia Day weekend to those still celebrating.

Custom Design - With compliments

2012-01-26T19:57:00.001+11:00

Late last year my friend Helena contacted me about designing a personalised with compliments cards as a wedding gift for her friends Craig and Jon. Of course as you can guess I said yes!

Despite our distance - Helena is currently living the life in London (jealous much? Yeah me too) - we worked together trying many different designs and ideas until it was just right.

The final result was a modernised wax seal in a gorgeous ruby red. Craig and Jon love fashion and all the good things in life, so the personalised stationery reflects the timeless design they treasure from labels we all covet like Viktor & Rolf and Chanel. The gorgeous red colour is Chinese Red - the colour of the soles of the forever gorgeous Christian Louboutin's shoes. Why you ask? Well it is an amazing colour reminiscent of a traditional wax seal. AND because the guys gave their bridesmaids a pair of Louboutin's for the wedding.

Yes, I am jealous too.

Helena had the design letter pressed on a gorgeous textured stock over in London town and I am so unbelievably happy with the way they turned out. In fact I may have squealed when I Helena sent through the photos.

Below are a few pictures of the final with compliments slips that Helena kindly took for me.

And by the way, Helena is a rather cool and talented lady herself - check out her blog over here. Be warned - she leads a pretty cool life over there (travel, baking & generally fun times) so you may find yourself feeling a little jealous while reading her posts. You have been warned.

Photographs by Helena, Design by me :)

Invitations - Nat & Drew

2012-01-25T15:07:00.003+11:00

Last year I was lucky enough to be asked by Nat and Drew to design their wedding invitations. When I met Nat and Drew to discuss their invitations we discovered that we had a shared love of all things vintage and art deco design. We chatted about their wedding and basically it was going to be an amazing fun and relaxed weekend with family and friends - sounds fun hey?

The inspiration for this particular invitation was a vintage destination postcard as the wedding was to take place in Bright, Victoria. I had been dying to design a postcard style invite for a while and when I found out that travel had played a big part in the lives of this sweet couple, and that the wedding was like a country mini break, I decided that the concept of a postcard fit perfectly.

Using art deco flourishes and vintage style post marks, the invitation reflected the fun weekend ahead and the style of the event. The front of the invitation featured a picture I took of one of the gorgeous views from the venue as a way to introduce 'the destination' to guests (yes, I did drive to Bright to take photos!).

On the reverse the vintage touches continued in the form of flourishes and a post mark I created with the couples name and the date of the wedding. I also used a selection of vintage stamps from my Grandads stamp collection to make the invitation a little more special.

I loved working on this design - amazing client, awesome brief and creative freedom. Great trifecta hey? If you would like to see a few sneak peeks of the production process check out this earlier post.

INVITATIONS - wedding shoot sneak peek

2012-01-23T00:04:00.001+11:00

Anna + Jordan Wedding Stationery - RSVP cards

Anna + Jordan - Engagement invitation

Drew + Nat - Wedding invitations - post card style

Luke + Kate - wedding stationery - thank you cards

Drew + Nat - Wedding invitations - post card style - detail

Adam + Kasia - Wedding invitations - thank you cards

Last year I was lucky enough to work with some really great couples creating custom wedding and engagement invitations for their events. Here is a little sneak peek of the photo shoot I did this weekend - let's just say there was a whole lot of flowers, confetti and beautiful paper around my studio.

I'll be sharing profiles of each project over the next couple of weeks so be sure to check back soon.

Film Clip Friday - Passenger 'Holes'

2012-01-20T11:01:00.000+11:00

This weeks Film Clip Friday selection has a little bit more of a Melbourne bent, which is kind of appropriate because I love this city. The video is a live session recently recorded for the Tram Sessions with Passenger. If you haven't heard of the the Tram Sessions then definitely check out their site.

In a nutshell, they take awesome musicians on a tram and have a gig on the tram. Simple concept, amazing fun.

So why did I choose this video in particular? Well, for one I love this song. I have seen Passenger (Mike) live a few times and he is a really engaging performer. So again, be sure to check him out.

So happy Friday and enjoy the song

Passenger - Holes from Tram Sessions on Vimeo.

Video via Tram Sessions vimeo stream
Filmed and edited by: Luisa Mirabilio
Produced by: Nick Wallberg

Baking: Salted Caramel Tarts

2012-01-16T00:08:00.000+11:00

Without wanting to sound like Oprah, baking is my bliss. I would bake every single day if I had a never ending supply of butter and sugar; and I didn't have to work. Awkward.

One of my resolutions for 2012 was to try out new recipes more. And I've decided to blog about my experiments. So here is the first one - salted caramel tarts.

I know salted caramel is all the rage these days but there is a reason - it's the BOMB.

If like me you love this salty sweet mix, you will love this recipe. Plus it is easy as pie.... or in this case little tartlets. So here is the recipe so you can get your fix :

Salted Caramel Tarts adapted from Donna Hay's recipe in Simple Dinners

Ingredients

1 pack Butternut Snap biscuits

Sea salt flakes to serve

1/4 - 1/2 cup Caramel sauce - you can use store bought or make your own, I used this recipe

filling

100g milk chocolate, chopped

100g dark chocolate, chopped

125ml of light pouring cream

Sea salt flakes to serve

How to:

1. Preheat the oven to 180 C. Place the biscuits into a shallow cupcake tin. Bake in oven for 2-3 minutes or until the biscuits start to soften. Press the biscuits into the tin using a tea towel to form a little biscuit shell. Leave to cool, then place on wire rack. Repeat with remaining biscuits.

2. The chocolate filling is super easy to make - it almost makes itself. In my case it didn't so, I did the following. Place the chopped chocolate and cream in a small saucepan over a low heat. Stir gently until smooth and glossy. Take the mix off the heat and transfer to a bowl to cool for 20 minutes. Once cool spoon the mix into the shells. I found that each shell took about a teaspoon.

When all of the shells are filled place them in the fridge to set for about an hour or two.

3. Once set it is time to add the caramel. Spoon a small amount over each tart. Now this is a little messy and nearly impossible to do neatly but I think the rustic look adds a little charm.

Sprinkle a little salt over each tart. Don't be concerned if the salt dissolves a little - it will still taste yummy. Place the tarts back in the fridge to allow the caramel to set.

4. And ta-da! You are ready to feast on your salty and sweet treats.

Hopefully you guys enjoy the recipe - let me know what you think!

I heart instragram

2012-01-15T10:27:00.001+11:00

It is no secret that I love taking photographs of everyday moments and adventures. I have been known in the past to take hundreds of photos at parties or just when I am out for a walk.

As you can imagine it was kind of a natural thing for me to continue this habit when I upgraded to an iPhone early in 2011. And now I have over 2,000 photos on my phone. Yes it is un-believable.

As if my love of happy snapping needed any more encouragement - well I was wrong.

So you might have heard of a little app called instagram. Thanks to instagram my happy snaps have found a home to be shared while I get to check out cool pics from other pals.

It kind of goes without saying - I heart instagram

So if you heart instagram too then check out my feed at truthbejess .
Expect lots of pictures of dresses, tea cups, stuff I love and all the things I get up to.

Film Clip Friday - The Lumineers

2012-01-13T14:31:00.000+11:00

It has been a while since I shared a Film Clip Friday with you all but trust me the wait was worth it.

This week's selection is from The Lumineers, an American trio I came across in an unlikely place.

I was watching an ep of Hart of Dixie; a trash-tastic teen drama (don't judge me) and heard this song and immeadiately fell in love. It is catchy and super sweet - everything I love basically all wrapped up in one neat little parcel of folky goodness.

So make sure you check out The Lumineers. Also check out Daytrotter for other sessions.

Work // The Best Map EVER

2012-01-06T21:36:00.000+11:00

So late last year one of my friends was heading to New York and I offered to make her a map. And not just any map, but the best map ever.

Well at the very least the best map ever made by me, which isn't much of a contest really considering the map that previously held the title is one I made in Grade 4 for our family road trip to Queensland. It had glitter on it and cut out pictures of the Big Pineapple.

So you can understand why the Great Pineapple Map has held this title for almost 20 years.

Anyway, while this one doesn't feature any glitter it does kind of one up the Great Pineapple Map if only because it points out about 10 different places to eat sweets, which I believe is the most important thing to research when traveling (or just going to another suburb).

I loved making it because it reminded me of the amazing time that I had in New York. So for a peek at the best map ever made (by me), just click on the images below.

new year, same loves

2012-01-06T12:29:00.001+11:00

So I know we are almost a week into 2012, but I'm still getting into the swing of things - so happy belated new year!

I had big plans for blogging up a storm over my holidays but instead I've been reading, relaxing and planning a few new ventures for 2012 including a kind of new direction for this blog and even a new little sister blog to boot. Now this new blog isn't supposed to replace this one, but kind of be its cuter quirky little sister, leaving this one to be the cool older sister blog focused on all my work with truthbetold. Weird analogy I know, but I'm really excited about the new direction and hopefully you guys will be too.

Anyway, while I am busy putting the finishing touches on all of that I thought I would share my fave video from over the holidays - this video karaoke session by two of my fave actors Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon Levitt. You have probably already seen it 1,000 times but go ahead and swoon again why don't ya? Could they be a-n-y cuter if they tried?

video via hellogiggles - my fave site

Christmas discount!

2011-12-12T21:41:00.000+11:00

Christmas is one of my favourite times of the year (isn't it everybody's ?)

To share the joy I am offering 20% off in my online store until the 20/11 - neat hey?

Just use the discount code XMAS to take advantage of the offer

Visit the store at : http://truthbetolddesign.bigcartel.com/products

happy holidays xx

sneak peek - Luke & Kate - on the day stationery

2011-12-04T21:35:00.001+11:00

Just a quick post to share a few sneaky peeks of some work I did for a friends wedding this weekend. Needless to say the wedding was amazing and I loved working with Kate in the lead up to the big day. So here are a few pic, expect a full wrap up soon!

Wear what you own challenge

2011-11-26T19:19:00.001+11:00

my outfits - day 1-14 (i'll share days 15-47 soon!)

My name is Jessie, and I have a lot of clothes. Until recently I was in denial about this fact - I knew I had a lot of clothes but didn't really know what that meant in the grand scheme of things. Like everyone, I had my key faves and go to outfits. And like most people I used to stand in front of my wardrobe and feel like I nothing to wear BUT those 5 or 6 outfits.

How did I come to this realisation I hear you ask? To cut a long story short - one night after one too many damsel without a dress moments of distress, when I again would declared 'I have nothing to wear!' my wise sister told me I was dreaming. That in fact I had a whole bunch of clothes and maybe I should try and wear them for once. And that sounded like a challenge to both of us.

So, since that fateful day I have been doing exactly that - wearing a new outfit everyday. Sounds pretty easy? The clincher here is that my dear sister also added in the fun extra challenge of not repeating any outfit until I have worn everything else. I literally have to wear everything I own before I am allowed to repeat an outfit.

Now a couple of background facts about me so you understand how I managed to gather so many clothes before going into this -

1. I don't wear pants. Weird I know. And no I'm not Lady Gaga. I just wear dresses and skirts. A couple of years ago I after trying again unsuccessfully to find a pair of pants that didn't look horrible or even fit I swore off pants. Just stopped trying to fit into them and wear something that I didn't feel good in. And I have been a happier lass ever since. Yay for me.

2. I also wear a lot of vintage - 90% of my wardrobe is vintage. I just like the cuts better and finding a preloved dress for $30 makes my heart sing, whereas a $300 dress that is poorly made from one of the many stores in town makes me sad.

So put these facts together - my love for dresses and bargains - and you can see how I have come to own a whole bunch of pretty dresses. Because lets be honest here - it's easy to justify spending $30 on a dress you find hiding amongst of rack of vintage. And I am a girl who loves colour and dressing up.

As you can imagine this challenge has the potential to go on for a while. In fact today is day 47. Yes, I know - I don't have a wardrobe - I have the makings of a shop.

So what else is there to this? Well as Day 50 approaches I thought I would share a few of the best parts of this challenge:

1. I haven't been shopping.
Now this is for a couple of reasons - but mainly because I have been shopping out of my wardrobe. I have surprised myself with what I can make work.

2. Fashion is fun.
Yeah, yeah I hear you - Jessie, tell me something Vogue hasn't - duh. What I mean is that I sometimes used to just get fixated on not wearing certain things because other people don't wear bright red and blue vintage to go to Coles. This challenge has forced me to accept that dressing with a little personality is a-ok and that I should be able to wear what I like and feel good about it. Full stop.

3. I like looking nice and others do too.
Without wanting to sound vain, I love putting together my outfit everyday. Yes I'm sure my time could be better spent but in this world where we never really stop, the time I take to get ready in the morning has become my wind down time. I don't think about the bazillion things i have to do that day - I don't think of anything apart from what lipstick I'm going to wear and which shoes go with my dress. Not in a vain way but in an attempt to just chill out for a minute.

And the other benefit I hadn't considered before I did this challenge - I walk out of the house feeling great, which makes other people think you are great too. It's all sounds a bit Oprah but really somehow this all has made me feel better about who I am.

So if you are interested in following along with the challenge, I post my outfits daily on my instagram - my name is truthbejess

And no, I will never say I have nothing to wear again.

Tulle & other sweet things

2011-11-25T09:26:00.001+11:00

So it has been a while since my last post - months in fact. But never fear, I have crawled out from under my pile of wedding invitations and other adventures! All this means that I have a whole bunch of things to share with you - starting next week, so stay tuned.

In the mean time, I thought I would share a little friday cuteness with you. I've mentioned before how much I love stop motion animations, and it's also pretty clear how much I love weddings too. So as you can well imagine, this gem of a video by New Zealander's Bayly & Moore documenting Marina & Andy's wedding made my little heart skip a beat.

Marina + Andy's Wedding in Stop-Motion | Melbourne, Australia / NYC from Bayly & Moore on Vimeo.

Amazing hey? I dare you not to smile while watching it - it's impossible!

And PS - ho wbeautiful is Marina's dress?

Remember when I made a little stop motion video? Marina & Andy's video has inspired me to make another one over the holidays (more to share about my holiday plans next week)

Custom Design - Elegance & Glamour

2011-10-17T11:42:00.000+11:00

Another sneak peek to start the week of two recently completed custom designedprojects.

Both projects were really fun to work on – one was the design of elegantcustom stationery as a wedding gift (amazing gift idea hey?), while the otherwas an equally elegant 1930’s inspired birthday invitation.

I’ll share fullwraps ups of these two very soon but this week I have the first of my wedding invitationwrap ups scheduled for you so check back soon.

two + two = sneak peek

2011-10-10T23:12:00.002+11:00

This weekend was one for the books. Not because it was filled with all sorts of rockstar happenings but because it was the exact opposite. And it was amazing for that exact reason.

I worked pretty much the whole weekend only briefly leaving my desk to go duck into the NGV so I didn't miss this and pick up my new glasses - both pairs - yes I am now that blind.

So what kept me so happily sitting at my desk cutting, folding and measuring all weekend you ask? Invitations of course! I finished production on two sets this weekend - one was the finishing items for a set - place cards and orders of ceremony - for an elegant alpine inspired wedding. This set has been so enjoyable to work on because I loved the theme so much.

And the second set was another gorgeous wedding set for a lovely friend of mine, which makes it even more special. I have loved designing this set so much - it's all spring time blossoms, sweet typography and gorgeous peach and pale green details. I'm kind of sad it is all done but I am so excited for my friend to see it. I can't share the full set yet but here are a few sneak peeks of both my spring time and alpine sets:

Over the next few weeks I'll be sharing some of my recent invitations - including these ones - with details about the design and inspiration.

Custom Illustration - sweet engagement portrait

2011-10-05T17:03:00.001+11:00

I have mentioned maybe a few (thousand) times how much I love working on custom jobs - be it illustration, invitations or anything in between. And this recent job was no different.

This couple are newly engaged and asked me to create an illustration for them to use as part of their invitation. They have maybe the cutest engagement story ever and are super lovely, so we tried to reflect all of this in the illustration taking into account everything from the details in the books to their clothes. Oh and you may notice a little bit of a height difference there - they wanted to play on this and I think the result is pretty sweet and reflects their loved up ways nicely, even if I do say so myself.

More newly finished commissions coming up later this week!

Let's eat cake

2011-10-03T15:00:00.000+11:00

A couple of weeks ago I had a little cake brunch at my new house. Good friends, decorating and baking; pretty much a perfect weekend all in all. Here are a few photos of the day.

September 2011

2011-09-30T10:30:00.000+10:00

September has gone by quickly. Looking back it was a whirl of work, work and more work. But in the best possible way. I realised again how much I love doing this whole truth.be.told thing. Even when I get stressed and feel like I can't fit in everything I dream of doing with it. So I feel kind of like Spring is a new start personally and for this little place. Time to be focussed and put my dreams first. Oh and time to make more cake obviously.

Anyway, these are some snapshots from September and the highlights from the month, from top left:

Top row: Wandering my new neighbourhood, baking cakes , visiting favourite childhood places

1st Middle Row: Semi Permanent Melbourne is always like a creative re-boot for me. 2011 was no different, two very inspiring days I will post about soon - two of my favourite speakers Kelly Thompson and Ken Taylor

2nd Middle Row: I am lucky enough to get to work with great people on cool projects and attend lovely markets.

Bottom Row: Signage, stripes, studio decorating

Spring Fling Sale!

2011-09-29T21:38:00.000+10:00

It's my favourite season so to celebrate it is sale time in the truth.be.told store!

Use discount code SPRINGFLING to get 10% off your entire order until the 31st October 2011.

Head over to the store & check it out http://truthbetold.com.au

MSFW North Melbourne Market Designer Event - this weekend!

2011-09-05T18:39:00.000+10:00

It has been a little quiet around here lately because among other things, I have been busy prepping for the North Melbourne Market which is on this weekend. I'm really looking forward to it because it looks set to be filled with amazing designers. I'm also excited because my little illustration is on the posters :)

If you are in Melbourne this weekend or know anyone who is - come on down to the market and say hi!

Custom Design - I heart Wedding Stationery

2011-08-24T11:47:00.000+10:00

Designing for events is quickly becoming one of my most favourite parts about my little truth.be.told venture - especially for weddings.

I have been so lucky to work with a bunch of stellar couples recently designing custom wedding stationery for them. I love that each is so different and adds something special to their day - because at the heart of it, I love being a part of people's happiness in some small way.

While I am a crazily working on some wedding designs currently, I took a little time out from designing to take a few photos of some of the recent sets. Some of these are super sneaky peeks so stay tuned for proper introductions to each of the final designs.

Anna & Jordan - sneak peek!

Brigid & Sean

Kasia & Adam - sneak peek!

Kasia & Adam - close up sneak peek!

Nat & Drew - vintage inspired wedding invitation

MSFW North Melbourne Market

2011-08-23T15:59:00.000+10:00

Guess what? I have another market event coming up soon!

I'm doubly excited about this market because not only I am having a stall, but I was lucky enough to draw the illustration for the poster and promo material for the event. Thanks again to the lovely ladies from Thread Den for having the event and asking me to do the illustration!

If you would like to come on down to the event - and you should! - all the details are above or check out the North Melbourne Market website at http://northmelbournemarket.com/

Craft Hatch Market tomorrow!

2011-08-12T08:42:00.001+10:00

Some of the goodies you will see at the market!

It's almost the weekend and for me that means one thing - Craft Hatch time!

Craft Hatch is Melbourne's incubator market, showcasing the work of student and emerging designers. Craft Hatch is a unique opportunity for anyone to purchase the freshest, hand-made products direct from the designer, including homewares, jewellery, clothing, accessories, stationery and more.

To coincide with Craft Cubed, a new supersized Craft Hatch will permantaly move to 1000 £ Bend on Little Lonsdale Street in the city. Exciting right? And if all of the amazing people who are having stalls isn't enough to convonce you - 1000 £ Bend also have amazing food & coffee too!

To check out the list of stall holders follow the link here.

Hope to see you there!

Details:

Craft Hatch
Saturday 13 August 2011
1000 £ Bend - 361 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
11am-4pm

3x3 moments July

2011-07-19T17:39:00.000+10:00

So it looks like once again my best laid plans to blog up a storm have once again become unstuck. I'm busily working away on some new custom designed invitation sets, logos and market goodies which I am busily photographing whenever a get a spare minute (and a rare sunny day). Excitingly I'm also about to move house into a super awesome light filled gem, so apologies in advance for the sporadic blogging during August.

With the end of July almost here I thought I would do a mini wrap up about what I have been up to for the last few weeks. So from left to right starting at the top, here are 9 moments for July:

top row

1. decorating sweet presents with origami hearts

2. a sneak peek of a custom illustrations for the lovely ladies from Thread Den MSFW Market

3. filling the house with pretty flowers

middle row

1. shopping at mud for amazing presents for amazing friends (visit if you haven't!)

2. taking the plunge & getting my fringe cut - loving it!

3. visiting awesome cafe's like chez dre for design meetings with cool clients

bottom row

1. more working lunches at woolly bully

2. custom invite designs for gorgeous couples

3. reading Amazing Face by the super lovely Zoe Foster - it really is amazing & here I am at the book signing with the lady herself

Also, this weekend I will be at the North Melbourne Market on Sunday 26th July. I'm planning on having all of my usual fun paper goods plus a few new products to share. So stop by Errol Street on the weekend! All the details are over here

New market dates - Craft Hatch August

2011-07-05T13:31:00.000+10:00

So things have been a little quiet around these parts lately for a number of reasons. I've been working on a few exciting new projects & products, wedding invitation deisgns and making over my website and shop (which should be all ready to go soon, I hope!).

I've also been busy organising some market dates for the rest of 2011. I love doing markets so I am super excited I can share with you some new dates. If you are in Melbourne make sure to stop in and say hi! More dates to come soon!

MARKET DATES

JULY

North Melbourne Market presented by Thread Den

Sunday 24th July 10am-3pm $2 entry Fee

Lithuanian Club, Errol Street North Melbourne

AUGUST

Craft Hatch at 1000 <> £ Bend

Saturday 13th August 11am-4pm

361 Little Lonsdale Street, Melbourne

North Melbourne Market presented by Thread Den

Sunday 21st August 10am-3pm $2 entry Fee

Lithuanian Club, Errol Street North Melbourne

SEPTEMBER

MSFW North Melbourne Market presented by Thread Den

Sunday 11th September 10am-3pm $2 entry Fee

Lithuanian Club, Errol Street North Melbourne

Sneak Peek: MSFW Illustration for Thread Den

2011-06-25T12:50:00.000+10:00

This week I was lucky to be asked by the lovely ladies from Thread Den to whip up and illustration for their MSFW September Market. It was a super tight deadline but I had a great time doing it!

And while I can't share the full thing with you yet, I can share a sneaky peek (see below). I'm really excited that it will be used for their promotion for the event and can't wait to share it with you. Oh and if you area designer and would like to be involved in the event then over over to the Thread Den website for all the details.

illustration: by me. for Thread Den

Invitations - Nat & Drew - sneak peek

2011-06-21T09:30:00.000+10:00

I'm so excited to be able to share this new invitation set with you soon. It was amazing to work on in all aspects - fun client, awesome brief and creative freedom. I'll be sharing some pictures of the final invites later in the week but until then here are a couple of production shots.

film clip friday - Feeding Line

2011-06-17T11:50:00.000+10:00

I don't probably need to say how much a love Boy & Bear on this blog. It's pretty much mentioned at least once a month. But in any case, if you didn't know - I do love the sweet tunes from Boy & Bear.

So Film Clip Friday was a no brainer this week with their film clip for Feeding Line being so lovely and scenic. Enjoy swooning xx

rain.food.rain.

2011-06-14T20:46:00.000+10:00

This weekend I was lucky enough to head up to Sydney for a long weekend away. It's not the first time I have been and it isn't going to be the last (I'm heading back in September).

Sadly we had some bad luck with the weather - it rained ALL weekend. And I mean ALL weekend. So unfortunately a lot of our plans were washed away and we were left a little listless. As a result we ate a lot. A whole lot. We had an amazing night at El Loco munching away on yummy tacos. We spent a whole day in Manly eating ice cream, macaroons, sampling drinks at 4 Pines Brewery and finishing up with an amazing dinner at Hugo's.

We were also lucky enough to see an awesome performance at the Opera House and check out the Vivid Lights installations at Circular Quay.

Oh and I saw Simon Baker at the Art Gallery of NSW. I think I am maybe still swooning now. (I know this is ridiculous)

Here are a few happy snaps from the weekend to tide you over until I get my head back into working mode this week.

yummy hot chocolate at Cafe Ish

Film Clip Friday - Turn Me On

2011-06-03T10:37:00.001+10:00

I have mentioned my love for The Grates on this blog many times. Many, many times. So after seeing the new film clip for their single Turn Me on, this Film Clip Friday was an absolute no brainer. Happy Friday xx

working 9 to 5 (weekend style)

2011-05-29T16:06:00.000+10:00

This weekend resembled an ordinary work day more than I care for. Lots of sitting at my desk. No brunch, no wandering around taking photos, no hot chocolate.

But never fear, I did manage to have a little bit of fun. I had a super Friday night at Boy & Bear (they were amazing). I tried my hand at illustrating food for my sisters friends kitchen tea present. And I designed some more wedding invitations and I've even included a super sneaky peek for you. I think this one might be my favourite project yet - but I think that about all of them when I am doing them.

So maybe it wasn't so bad. Hope you had a super weekend xx

Send Leeloo to Berlin

2011-05-28T11:53:00.002+10:00

I am pretty sure that by now everyone knows how much I love the ladies of Leeloo Angela & Renee. They have to be seriously two of the most talented, inspirational and all around ace ladies I have had the pleasure to meet. Plus they are nice and who doesn't like nice people?

Why I am telling you this? Well Renee and Angela are planning on heading over to Berlin for the first Etsy conference and they need a little help to do it. Here are a few dets from the ladies below, and you can help them out over at their pledge site:

Etsy are holding their first massive conference in Berlin, Germany this September, hello etsy. We'd really like to go, but we need your help.

We have created a project on IndieGoGo which will give you an idea of what we do here at Leeloo, and why we'd really like to be there. Essentially we think it will help us on our mission to support Australian designers and artists by learning from the best of the world's speakers and meeting the people in the know about online design. We can bring back some inspiration and ideas to share with our lovely community when we return and give you updates on the go while we're there. Awesome, right?

How can you help? Well, if you head to our project on IndieGoGo there's a few ways you can help financially, for which you can receive perks including raffle tickets, discounts and artworks by Renee Anne. You can also help by simply spreading the word for us, which is also greatly appreciated.

We'll keep you updated on how we're going, and we're looking forward to bringing you back the best of our knowledge if we get there!

Also they made a cute video to help promote their sweet cause.

See what I mean about being crazy talented? (I'm dying of jealously pangs right now)

So if you would like to help out head over to the pledge page here:
http://www.indiegogo.com/Berlin-by-September

Video Credits
Video features :: Angela D'Alton, Renee Anne Baker and Leeloo
Song :: Young Love by Luke Russell
Filmed at Leeloo Studios, May 2011

Invitation sneak peek & a giveaway

2011-05-26T12:39:00.000+10:00

So here is a sneak peek at one of the wedding invitation suites I recently finished for the lovely Brigid. I've got a full post planned for this gorgeous set over the weekend so stay tuned.

Also I forgot to tell you all that you can win a couple of my prints as part of a great giveaway over at Polli with a stack of other goodies from my favourite online store Leeloo.

Check out the blog over here - just name your fave Leeloo designer/s and like/follow the Polli page and you go in the draw. Easy stuff right? Yes indeedy! Closes June 13th

Weekend happenings

2011-05-25T12:39:00.000+10:00

While I have loads of wedding design work planned for the weekend (I'll share some sneaky peeks soon!), I am planning to reward myself with a visit to Markit@Fed Square on Sunday.

I think it is a great market and while I don't have a stall (I forgot to apply - eek!) there are some of my fave designers people who will be there (see below). Check ou the full list over at the website.

gorgeous brooch from Emily Green (image from Emily Green)

Super sweet pendants & wearables by So Little Time Co. (image from here)

winter warmer news update

2011-05-23T11:47:00.000+10:00

I finally finished my winter news update & sent it out last night. If you missed out and would like to receive my semi regular seasonal updates then just sign up using the little sign-up tab just in the sidebar.

You might even get a super special subscriber dicsount if you do. Good deal right? You betcha!

WEDDING - Adrian & Skye

2011-05-22T13:59:00.000+10:00

I'm excited to finally share one of my recent invitation designs with you. Recently I had the pleasure of designing invites for my friend Skye and her beau Adrian. They loved my heartfelt illustration so the end result incorporated a revised version of the original illustration plus some ruby red hearts and scalloped edges, with matching ruby red envelopes.

I'm working on a few new wedding suites at the moment so I will share some more images soon. And in the mean time if you know anyone who would like some invitations then send them my way :)

life: A moment to pause

2011-05-20T14:56:00.000+10:00

So things have been a little quiet around these parts lately. The short explanation is that I have been busy. Busy designing new things. Busy visiting cool places. Busy being with my loved ones.

Above are a few images of recent happenings, it sums up autumn pretty well. Next week I'll be back to regular posting with lots of news and sneak peeks to share with you - weddings, stockists & more! In the meantime have a lovely weekend xx

image by me

FilmClip Friday - By Me

2011-05-06T09:57:00.000+10:00

So I thought I would share a fun little project I have been working on for the last few days. At work we are having a mini short film festival - kind of like a reeeeaaaalllly rookie version of tropfest.

We only had a few rules - shoot it on an iphone, feature a hard hat (I work in an Architectural office) and mention North Melbourne (where our office is). I kind of broke the first rule as my iPhone was not playing nice with my computer, so instead this little baby is shot stop animation style on my Canon 500D and assembled in iMovie.

I had the best time doing it - making all the letters and hearts, taking the stills, selecting music - it was awesome. Think I might make another one for fun soon.

Anyway - enjoy! And let me know what you think

For I Love You from truthbetold on Vimeo.

Animation by me

Music - Why do you let me stay here? by She & Him

Weddings - Jesse & Georgia

2011-05-01T21:46:00.000+10:00

I am so excited to finally be able to share this invite I did for amazing couple Jesse and Georgia. These two are the most hilarious and cheeky couple I have worked with and I loved every second of it.

Jesse and G weren't interested in flowers and pearly paper (their words when they emailed me!) so I designed something that suited their personalities and took in a little of their story too. The sweet couple have been together for 10 years and as you may have gathered from the wording, their family and friends were ready for them to get hitched.

The postcard style invite included a little bit of extra fun with a hand made pocket of red confetti.

More photos to come soon of this set and the others I have been working on recently.

moments

2011-04-28T08:54:00.001+10:00

i heart the usa - all photos by me from left to right : top 1. guggenheim museum, nyc 2. angels flight,(aka the park from 500 days of summer) downtown LA 3. santa monica beach, LA 4. NYC city lights 5. Seattle Library, WA 6. The Highline in Chelsea, NYC

I just realised that a year ago today I set off on my American odysessy. It doesn't feel like a year since I jetted off on my 5 week break in the US of A - it feels so much longer, probably because I kind of miss that time so much. It probably goes without saying, but I wish that I was heading off to NYC again today or any day for that matter.

The pictures above are some of my favourites from the trip, and have been on my desktop at work since the day I got back.

While I may be at my day job today and not in Central Park, on the bright side, I have some great news and new projects to share with you tomorrow!

Much Love Monday - head in the clouds

2011-04-25T21:07:00.000+10:00

I have been loving the extra long weekend. Obviously 5 days off is always brilliant, that goes without saying. I took a little time away from eating chocolate to spend some time exploring places close to home and far away. I spent a little time in the city exploring the lane ways and visiting NGV. I also hit the road to visit the lovely Hanging Rock and super charming Woodend. As always I took my cameras along with me and here are a few of my favourites.

leaf art at the water wall on Collins Street

exploring at Hanging Rock

exploring at Hanging Rock - and yes I may have yelled Miranda a few times

Inventive hipsters (or cheeky revelers on a Saturday night) find alternative bike storage in the CBD

Check out other much love entries at Anna's lovely blog

Art & Craft for Easter

2011-04-19T11:22:00.001+10:00

I want to start by saying I love chocolate. In my house it is considered a food group of its own.

So obvioulsy Easter is one of my favourite times of year because well, there is an abundance of chocloate. But this year I have been thinking of passing over those delicious chocloate bunnies and buying something that will last longer than the inevitable Easter sugar coma.

So here are a couple of things I think would be super to pick up instead of a bunny (or in addition to it !)

Well Dressed Animals by Ryan Berkely

I saw some of Ryan's prints from the Well Dressed Animal series at cute local shop Quirk & Co. (check it out if you are in Melbourne) and I was totally smitten. I love this series and Ryan does some pretty amazing other work too which you can check out here. Here are a couple of my faves which are available in his shop, I think are just as cute as those foil wrapped bunnies.

Lady Rabbit by Ryan Berkeley available here

White Rabbit by Ryan Berkley available here

Wearables by So Little Time Co.

Now I know this doesn't resemble a bunny or an egg but I promise you this sweet pendant watch (or wearable as they call them) by So Little Time Co. is a winning replacement for chocolate this Easter (or any time really).

Made in Melbourne by the extremely lovely team of Kirsty, Josh and Jacinta,I gurantee that you will find something sweet over at So Little Time Co. I gave a friend the pendant below for her birthday and I swear she hasn't taken it off since. So check them out here and visit the shop too!

Wind Cloud Pendant available here Image: So Little Time Co.

Recipe Box by Dawn Tan with Harvest Textiles

No doubt you will have heard of the super talented and super lovely Dawn Tan so I don't need to rabbit on (lame pun - sorry!). Anyway, recently Dawn did a residency at Harvest Workroom and produced a whole bunch of amazing products which you can buy in the shop online. I love everything but I think my favourite is the Recipe Box - and who doesn't want to cook up some yummy recipes over Easter?

Recipe Box by Dawn Tan with Harvest Textiles available over here

Stay tuned for some more Easter treats this week on the blog

Also I am having a little Easter sale in my store until Monday - enter EASTER20 at checkout to get 20% off any purchase - visit the store here:
http://www.truthbetolddesign.bigcartel.com/products

weekend : autumn

2011-04-17T19:49:00.000+10:00

This weekend reminded me why I love autumn. It was mild and a little sunny. Plus I got to kick around some leaves. If only it was going to stay this nice.

kicking around leaves in my new boots from the vintage garage

daily quotes at parkhill cellars. hilarious.

sweet window boxes in north melbourne.

Filmclip Friday : You're Always

2011-04-15T12:46:00.000+10:00

I can always tell what I have been working on by what music I listen to most.

Recently I have been working on a few invitation designs for some truly sweet and loved up couples, so my playlist has been featuring lots of lovely, melodic and romantic tunes to get my mind in the right place.

One of the songs that has been on high rotation is You're Always by Sally Seltmann. I love this song. In fact I love it so much that when I played it for my soon to be married friend as a suggestion for her wedding she cried and did a little star jump. I can't wait to see her and her equally amazing husband to be dancing to this on their wedding day.

Oh and of course I love the film clip - lots of flowers and generally oozing romance and wistfulness.

Anyway enough gushing from me - just watch it :

You're Always from Sally Seltmann on Vimeo.

Credits

Music by Sally Seltmann, produced by Darren Seltmann.

Clip directed by Kiku Ohe for The Silent Lights

a second to pause

2011-04-12T20:40:00.001+10:00

So some may have noticed I have posted as regularly as I usually do. Well in the last few weeks I have been a little under the weather and exhausted, and as usual it caught up with me. So while I have been sleeping off this state of exhaustion I have still been trying to capture some nice moments. Stay tuned for some more posts this week of new work.

The only good thing about daylight savings ending is that at 4:55pm each day the disco ball on my desk at work lights up my desk like this.

I took a little time out to bake a few cakes this week - and this chocolate orange one was certainly a winner

My lovely sister bought me home the latest copy of Inside Out magazine which has this gorgeous print my James Gulliver Hancock who is one of my favourite artists.

Birds rule. Sort of

2011-04-02T10:02:00.001+11:00

I noticed last weekend at Finders Keepers that people commented a lot about the lack of birds at my stall. In fact there was only one - this popular little fella here - which I created after a few requests for some feathered friends on my cards. There are a lot of birds to be seen in the crafty world, and I think that's ace and slightly comical. Much like this video. Yay birds

Enjoy lovelies xx

Market Moments

2011-03-30T14:47:00.001+11:00

So here are a few more photos from Finders Keepers over the weekend. I took loads, but here are a few of my faves including some of my favourite stalls and things.

A close up of my stall - lots of garland, vintage pieces and flowers too.

The early crowd on Saturday morning

Flower petals at the Mr Lincoln flower stall - so lovely!

Cute chalk drawings near my stall.

My fave band from the weekend - the Olivettes

making sweet paper hearts and headbands - the guys from trialanderror for Paper Convention Collective

Anna from Able & Game running her super rad stall

The lovely Emily Green - I picked up one of her necklaces

And the equally lovely Emma Leonard at her gorgeous stall - she also had a STUNNING piece in the Drawn from Fashion exhibition

And I wouldn't have gotten through the weekend without cupcakes from Mister Nice Guy - quite possibly the best cupcakes I have ever had, and I eat alot of cupcakes

The super amazing Leeloo stall

Now that the market is all done I will be spending a little time updating the shop with loads more goodies for you. And I also have a super sneak peek at a wedding invitation design I have been working on which I am really excited about - I love designing wedding stationery!

Finders Keepers all wrapped up

2011-03-28T21:52:00.001+11:00

I'm going to start by apologising for the image heavy post - what can I say, there were just too many awesome moments and things at Finders Keepers this weekend that I had to include them all.

So Finders Keepers Melbourne was on over the weekend and it was quite possibly the most fun and lovely weekend I have ever had while I have been running my little business. The crowd, stalls and 'vibe' made it a super weekend. And while I am pretty tuckered out, I kind of wish I was doing it again this weekend. Thank you to everyone that came along and said hi - it was lovely chatting to so many truly sweet people and hearing so many nice things about my little stall, makes it all worthwhile.

Here are a few shots from my stall, over the next couple of days I'll share some more of my pics.

my sweet heart from the Paper Convention Collective table run by trial and error

installation by Paper Convention Collective - LOVE!!

I had not one but 4 cameras (I know, excessive!) including my polaroid

Snapshots of my stall - flowers & vintage teacups

And I made bunting too with my ladies on it

more stall shots!

Pom-pom garland and paper frames

Me at the stall before the mayhem!

and my sister at the stall - isn't she the cutest! She was literally a liftesaver on Sunday and I simply can't thank her enough - best sister ever!

It's finally here!

2011-03-25T19:33:00.001+11:00

Today was bump in day for the Finders Keepers Markets and here are a few photos from my set up today.

As you can imagine it has been a crazy build up here at truth.be.told, lots of planning, printing and stressing but it was 100% worth it when I stepped back and checked it all out set up. I'm really excited for the next two days - it should be really fun! If you are in Melbourne make sure to stop by and say hi - I would love to have some visitors!

Here are the details for you again, but check out the Finders Keepers website for more info

Finders Keepers Melbourne Markets

Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th March

10am - 5pm both days

Shed 4 North Wharf Road - Check the map below for details on how to get there.

I live in a paper palace! Market Sneak Peek

2011-03-22T21:50:00.000+11:00

So as promised I have a little sneak peek for you from my Finders Keepers preparation. This week has been insane to say the least, printing - folding & packaging til the wee small hours. The studio (and the rest of the house) is starting to look a little like a paper palace! The best thing is that I will have lots of lovely things to share with you on the weekend.

Check out the Finders Keepers website for details on the best ways to get there - they have a new detailed map up for everyone.

Hopefully I will squeeze in another post showing you what is in store at my stall (that makes any sense!)

Film Clip Friday Double

2011-03-19T08:20:00.000+11:00

Another Friday has arrived which means its time my favourite time of the week! And because I forgot to post a video last week in my excitement over a long weekend, today I have two for you - score!

So these are two songs that have been on high rotation while I have been working away in the studio preparing for Finders Keepers next weekend. I'm sure they will be playing non stop this week to keep my going while printing and folding some goodies for you!

Enjoy the weekend and enjoy these songs too - check back Monday for some sneak peeks of some of the goodies I am preparing for Finders Keepers

The Temper Trap 'Sweet Disposition' @ Yahoo! Video

truth.be.told on the Finders Keepers blog!

2011-03-17T12:52:00.000+11:00

So I am really excited to be featured on the Finders Keepers blog today. You can have a read over here and get a little peek into my studio and a few inspiration shots too.

And don't forget that the market itself is coming up in just over a week - eek! - so come and visit if you are in town.

Finders Keepers Market Melbourne

Shed 4 Docklands

26 & 27 March

see here for more details

Much Love Monday : The Simple Things

2011-03-14T18:39:00.001+11:00

I haven't joined in to Much Love Monday over at Anna's blog for a little while because well; I am forgetful. And a little lazy. But seeing that it has been a Long Weekend here in Melbourne I have had the time to sit at the computer for a few hours.

So even though this post doesn't actual feature a photo of a heart (sorry Anna!) - it does feature 3 things that I heart.

1.0 I heart flowers. I especially love them when I get them for no reason at all.

2.0 I heart book sales like the one at Readings I went to yesterday. I picked up this book Just my Type and as soon as I opened it and saw the Periodic Table of Typefaces I pretty much fell in love. I might even do a book review about it - good idea or bad?

And lastly - 3.0 I heart being at home and baking. My sister took this sneaky pic of me baking not 1 but 3 cakes on Thursday night - kind of an insane idea after work!

To check out all the other Much Love entries make sure to visit Anna's sublime blog

Oh and PS - I missed Film Clip Friday last week which means double the film clip fun this Friday so stay tuned.

all images by me

add a little sugar

2011-03-09T15:21:00.000+11:00

Yesterday was Shrove Tuesday which is one of the best days at my place. No, not for the proper traditional reasons but for our own traditions. It means Pancakes are an acceptable dinner food.

For as long as I can remember in my house, this has been a great sugar filled day; and while I was not feeling the best yesterday (I hurt my back at work!) pancakes for dinner certainly made it a whole lot better. Here are a few shots of the yummy pancakes we got into last night.

all images by me

FilmClip Friday - Bella Donna

2011-03-04T09:36:00.000+11:00

I love The Avett Brothers for many reasons. They make gorgeous melodic folk-esque tunes. They play guitars. They are kind of dreamy in that scruffy mountain man way.
Plus this song is simply gorgeous.

Dresscode work shops at Thread Den

2011-02-28T17:14:00.000+11:00

Recently I had the pleasure of producing a whole bunch of illustrations for the lovely image consultant Peta Stephenson from Dresscode for her upcoming Style Matters workshops at Thread Den.

The Style Matters workshop is a 3 hour session where Peta will help you maximise your wardrobe and look your best by finding out what styles best suit you based on your body shape. Plus you will get loads of tips and a copy of the illustrated manual to take home.
As someone who struggles to work out what to wear 90% of the time, I think the workshop sounds great!

Here are a few pics of the finished manual that I was commissoned to do some illustrations for, so excited about the way it turned out.

The next session is this Sunday 6th March so if you would like to go along to the March workshop then see the details on the Thread Den website or visit the Dresscode website for more details about other consulting services.

LOVE : the vintage shed

2011-02-26T21:59:00.000+11:00

I love sifting through second hand and antique stores looking for little gems. For the last few months I have been looking around for a whole list of goodies and not having much luck finding them in good condition or at a reasonable price.

So after reading about it here, today I went on a bit of an expedition down the coast to The Vintage Shed in Tyabb. And I am so glad that I did.

Not only were the ladies simply lovely but the shed is honestly like Aladdin's cave for a vintage lover like myself. I came home with everything I had been looking for at a bargain price (no big city price rise there), plus a few extra goodies I couldn't leave behind.

Here are a few snaps of some of my bounty - excuse the crap iPhone quality - and I promise to share very soon what all of these goodies will be used for.

wicker shopping basket

A shot of one of the stalls at the Vintage Shed - so hard to resist those canisters.

Bargain of the day - I got these chairs for $35 - for both. Oh yeah.

Some of my finds - lots of crates, amber glass, 1940's artist easel & desk drawers

And the prize find of the day - sky blue 1950's lace garden dress - literally my dream dress - all for $50

Filmclip friday - Ghosts

2011-02-26T08:46:00.001+11:00

I listen to this song everyday. It just makes me happy and sad all at once and I love it.

And it has a really great film clip too.
So its an obvious choice for (a belated) Film Clip Friday

WIP - wedding stationery

2011-02-21T10:32:00.000+11:00

Here is a little sneak peek of some very fun and exciting design work I did over the weekend. As you can probably guess it is for a wedding invitation set - maybe the bride and groom and the church are a give away. Anyway, I LOVE designing wedding stationery - it actually is my favourite design task at the moment. So it won't probably come as a suprise then that I am planning on launching my own custom design and pre designed wedding stationery. Stay tuned for updates and the big reveal of the designs.

In the mean time if you are a bride to be or know someone who is, let me know I love weddings :)

Markets & Film Clip Friday - Maybe

2011-02-18T14:09:00.000+11:00

I love Fridays so much, mainly because well I love the weekend. This weekend is going to be a busy one with designing new wedding stationery for a lovely couple, dinner with friends and I am also at the North Melbourne Market this Sunday. If you are in the North Melbourne area come and say hi.

This week I have chosen one of my favourite songs for film clip friday - Maybe by Ingrid Michaelson. I think she is a gem and love her music to pieces. Enjoy the song and your weekend lovelies xx

Market details:

North Melbourne Market

44 Errol Street North Melbourne

10-3pm Sunday 20th Feburary

custom design - bokashi fun

2011-02-15T16:33:00.000+11:00

I don't normally like to share things I did at my day job on this blog but this little project was too fun not to.

We are undergoing a bit of a green overhaul in our office and as part of that we are getting a cute little bokashi bin. Long story short, I got to make a poster explaining how it all works. I made all the little graphics myself and had maybe a little too much fun doing it. See I did go a little OTT right?

image by me - do not repost without asking first! thanks!

happy lovers day

2011-02-14T19:46:00.001+11:00

happy lovers day

Postcards From Italy from ForYouLoveMe on Vimeo.

I love valentines day. I know it's all a big spectacle but I simply adore love hearts so any day that means there are more around even just for a day then thats great.

Have a gorgeous valentines day and enjoy these AMAZING images and videos from For you Love Me.

Image + video credits
for you love me
video featuring music by Beirut & features Josh & Naomi from awesome blog RockStar Diaries

Film Clip Friday - Semi Charmed Life

2011-02-11T17:36:00.000+11:00

So I know todays Film clip Friday choice is is a bit of an old one.

Ok it's really old.

I blame the fact I was listening to my old iPod last night while I was up to the wee small hours working on some new work.

Anyway, I love this song. Enjoy.

new website goes live!

2011-02-09T14:45:00.000+11:00

Today is kind of exciting for me. Not only is it Wednesday but I finally finished my new and improved website! I'm still tweaking a few details but from today you can find all the details about truthbetold in the one place. And you can even shop there too. I'm pretty excited so let me know what you think!

www.truthbetold.com.au

WIP & Music - Film Clip Friday The Antlers - Two

2011-02-04T08:54:00.001+11:00

So it has been a little quiet around these parts lately, especially in the drawing area. This isn't because i haven't been drawing but rather because I have been working on commissioned work that I can't share with you quite yet.

Here are a couple of sneak peeks for you just so you can see I'm telling the truth here:

I've been working on a series of illustrations for the lovely Peta from dresscode - if you are in Melbourne check out her upcoming classes at Thread Den to get a few super tips on how to dress for your body type

And an ongoing project that is pretty much all about covering a wall. 41 metres of temporary wall to be exact. Yikes.

And of course being Friday I have a new film clip for you. I'm off to the Laneway Festival in Melbourne tomorrow so this weeks clip is from the The Antlers who I will be seeing hopefully through the forecasted torrential rain storm.

filmclip friday - Angus & Julia

2011-01-27T22:38:00.002+11:00

This week has been a fun one mainly because there isn't much that can top a midweek public holiday! And Australia Day is my favourite - barbeques, lamingtons & the hottest 100.

So in honour of Australia Day and an Aussie band winning the hottest 100, this weeks film clip is from Angus & Julia Stone - Big Jet Plane. Enjoy :)

I love decorating

2011-01-24T13:32:00.000+11:00

I love redecorating my house. It is seriously one of my biggest distractions.

I have been spending a pretty large chunk of my time lately cleaning and sorting. Not for any particular reason other than that I can't get settled until I have sorted out this part of my life. Sparing you the boring details, after a couple of trips to the Salvos and a whole lot of recycling, moving and sorting I can finally get to the fun part - decorating. I love to decorate and move things around in the house - much to the amusement of my sister whom I live with.

So here are a few shots of the start of my decorating fun, including a few new finds I made on the weekend.

I have ALOT of arty things I pick up from the markets and various places and I'm finally finding ways to display them about the house.

I picked up these awesome vintage Japanese shakers at Quirk & Co, an awesome new shop in North Melbourne

And I love doilies. I know this makes me a nana at 27 but seriously how cute is this one?

flimclip friday - Blood

2011-01-21T09:00:00.000+11:00

I know I am absolutely horrible at keeping up with weekly series style blogs. I always start with the best of intentions then get distracted by shiny objects and completely forget. Despite my dismal track record I thought I might just give it another go and this one I think I will be able to stick with for two reasons:

1. I love film clips and can often still be found early on a Saturday morning sitting glued to the TV watching Rage or Video Hits. I ( I know I am not 12 anymore, but I love it)

2. I love music. I have 4 stereos in my house so music is never far away. And my ipod is permanently glued to my ears. I just can't go through my day without listening to some music.

So for this inaugural filmclip friday, I share with you one of my favourite songs - Blood by the Middle East. I love the way this song builds slowly. I was lucky enough to see them play live when I saw Mumford & Sons in the USA last year and they were amazing.

Oh and the film clip is by the talented ladies from Greedy Hen - how unreal is it?

North Melbourne Market - This Sunday!

2011-01-20T22:29:00.000+11:00

I am such a goose - I completely forgot to tell you I will be at the North Melbourne Market this Sunday!

I promise I am super excited, I blame the heat and return to work for frying my brain!

See details below and hope to see you there!

Sunday 23rd January

Lithuanian Club

44 Errol Street North Melbourne

10am - 3pm

EVENTS Frances' 50th birthday

2011-01-18T21:35:00.000+11:00

So this another fun project I got to work on recently. I designed invitations for the lovely Frances' 50th birthday celebrations. I worked closely with her superstar daughter to make sure that the invite reflected her style and all the things she loves - the colour blue, tea cups, forget me nots, teddy bears and 1920's elegance. I think we got there and she was really excited which for me s the most important part. I loved pulling out the watercolours too and drawing in a slightly looser style than I normally do.

EVENTS : Anna + Jordan

2011-01-12T20:44:00.000+11:00

It has been a little while since i have posted any of my work so I thought over the next few days I might share some of the custom work that has been keeping me busy.

First up, most recently I had the pleasure of designing invitations for Anna and Jordan's engagement party. With a lovely open brief, this design was inspired by the party location, fresh summer colours, all with a touch of whimsy and romance thrown in for good measure.

Anna was a dream to work with and I'm really happy with the result that we came up with on a super short deadline.

studio snap shots

2011-01-12T16:11:00.000+11:00

Looking through the blog recently I realised that it has been a little while since I actually shared any of my work with the world, mainly because I have been a little flat out of late actually doing the work. So starting tomorrow I'm planning on sharing the latest projects happening here at truthbetold.

But today, here is a little sneak peek of my most recent project - full post tomorrow!

sublime

2011-01-10T22:12:00.003+11:00

I love Adele. Simply put I think she is sublime. This song is my new go to song for inspiration for my new work. Share soon

art - broomsticks -princesses

2011-01-07T12:09:00.001+11:00

This week I have been taking advantage of still being on holidays from my day job and going and visiting all the places I love but never get to visit because I am at work, at a market or at home making something for one of these (the last two I love especially - I'm not complaining).

So this week I packed a sketchbook, sunscreen (I am a pale human) and my beloved DSLR and went to Heide to see the Freehand exhibition which was amazingly inspiring.

I also ventured into the city and visited Campbell Arcade on my way to ACMI for the Dreams Come True exhibition which I loved. I would highly recommend going along if you love all things Disney animation - they had stills and cels from all the 'princess' films and it was fantastic to see the concept layout outs and art work for the films I loved so much as a kid, especially for Sleeping Beauty which is still one of my favourite visual go to sources today.

All Images by me - 1-7 at Heide 8-11 in Campbell Arcade

Oh and apologies for the image heavy post - I got over excited xx

Pretty illos for Peppermint Magazine

2011-01-05T10:53:00.000+11:00

In my holiday brain haze, I forgot to share with your the illustration I did for the latest issue of Peppermint Magazine! This latest girl goes along with a story about shopping sensibly and sustainably, two things which really appeal to me personally. Check it out on news stands now.

2011

2011-01-03T21:59:00.002+11:00

I know this is probably a little late seeing its almost a week into 2011, but I thought I would wrap up 2010. Not because anything that remarkable happened but I think you need to sometimes box things up before you can move onto the next thing. Maybe it was end of year blues but by the end of the year all I felt was defeated, tired, unchallenged and generally over everyone and everything. Some big things happened in 2010 - some great, some that will take me a long time to move on from. But looking back at the blog I saw 2010 for what it was - an amazingly fun, challenging and rewarding year. So here it goes.

I went on my dream trip & finally left the country. I fell in love with NYC. I saw some bands I like way too many times maybe. I spent my weekends at the markets selling my wares. I drew a whole lot. I was part of some truly great exhibitions. I got too many dresses.

I got a super cute bike. I spent time with my friends dancing, eating and being merry.

I lost someone I loved more than words.

So for 2011 I don't want to make resolutions, I am not great at keeping them. I just want to list out some things that are important to me and things I hope I can achieve.

So again, here it goes.

I want to spend more time with the people I love

I want to go and see more of the world

I want to get up in the morning and feel like I am contributing something.

I want to make more time to draw and have fun projects.

I just want to be happier

I realise I'm not the same person I was a year ago in some ways and I'm starting to think that this is a great thing.

and so that was christmas

2010-12-29T18:52:00.001+11:00

So after all my excitement looking forward to Christmas, it was over in a flash.

I did take a heap of snaps this year so here are a few for you to check out when you take a break from finding new ways to use up the leftovers !

i made tiny origami trees (with doilies of course)

we don't have room for a real tree so I made a wall tree instead

tree at my mums house dog-proofed - we don't normally cage trees I promise

best christmas joke ever - what lies at the bottom of the sea and shivers?

a nervous wreck. awesome!

boredom at the day job sometimes results in things like this.

My best-est (and only) sister Beck and I posing for our 1000th Holiday snap - we love a photo

merry christmas xx

2010-12-26T11:27:00.000+11:00

Calico & C Artisan Love Feature!

2010-12-20T18:33:00.000+11:00

So recently I did an interview for the lovely Amanda over at Calico & Co and now it is up on the site for the world to see - check it out if you like - I apologies if I sound like a git!

giveaway fun at muchlove anna xx

2010-12-13T10:05:00.000+11:00

So everyone loves a giveaway right? Well the super lovely Anna over at Much Love is hosting a giveaway of a bundle of my goodies. Neat huh? Check it out and enter over here!

Christmas Shopping!

2010-12-10T11:14:00.000+11:00

So it is only 15 days until Christmas - yikes! I personally haven't started any of my shopping yet and in case you haven't either here are a few places you can pick up my goodies online and in store :

Online

Leeloo Rose Street Artist Market Online Store

In store

Thread Den Fitzroy

thread den - north melbourne
level 1, 16 Errol Street

North Melbourne, Victoria

thread den - fitzroy

422 Brunswick Street

Fitzroy , Victoria

fannyz

shop 4 174 chapel street

Windsor, Victoria

Limerence

2/1642 Burwood Hwy, Belgrave Victoria.

Paper Fusion

50 Grantham Street, Wembley WA

And of course, all the goodies are still available form me in my Madeit and Big Cartel Stores

AND I have only 3 more market days left for 2010!

Rose Street Artist Market

60 Rose Street Fitzroy 11am - 5pm

Saturday 11 December & Sunday 12th December

Sunday 19th December

DESIGN // Christmas Cards for Headspace

2010-12-07T13:44:00.000+11:00

I love that I get the opportunity to design interesting and fun things for great people. Working with people to create something has become my favourite part of doing all of this - apart from the actual designing of course!

I just finished designing 3 different Christmas cards for headspace. This project was great not only because it was a pleasure to do but because it was for a great organisation. headspace is Australia's National Youth Mental Health Foundation. It provides support, information and advice to people aged 12 – 25 dealing with mental health related issues. For more information about the great work that headspace do check out the website