Winter woolies... {commercial}

This is Phoebe.  Doesn't she have the most stunning big beautiful fish-bowl eyes?   I was mesmerized by them during this photo shoot for another of the Ella Rae knitting book series.

The Natural Gloss Boss {media}

In case you missed the news, Kylie Apostoles, founder of Morgan Annie All-Natural Beauty,  recently won honours in Nature and Health magazine’s recent annual beauty awards.  And The Sunday Times covered the story both in the paper, and on Perth Now.

Before I put away the files of the photos used in the stories, I thought I'd post this last one because its the one I thought they'd use, but they didn't.  You never can tell...

Classy ladies...

Casual ... Classic ... Classy

They are the three C's that sum up Shantilly's Boutique - and these two ladies, and their swag of gorgeous catwalk model.

On Wednesday night, Kim & Sharlene, along with Kylie from Morgan Annie - All Natural Make-Up  hosted a fashion parade featuring the Winter 2011 goodies.  Check out the video if you missed this hot event!

Businesses I Adore ... Michelle Dayman Events

This is Michelle.

They say there are two sorts of people; the talkers & the do-ers.  Michelle is a do-er!  In fact I sometime wonder how she does so much! 

Michelle has taken her years of experience behind the scenes at weddings & recently launched her own wedding coordinator business.  And if I was a bride, I would be considering myself very lucky to have Michelle by my side. Full disclosure - I've had Michelle by my side working on various projects over the years, so I'm speaking from experience.  But check out this blog post, where I let Michelle speak for herself!

So, tell us a little bit about Michelle Dayman Events?

MDE is my newest challenge, love and addiction over and above my day to day role in Events at the City of Albany.

It has always been a dream to run my own weddings and events company and Michelle Dayman Events sees the realisation of this.  The tag-line Events.Weddings.Occasions sums up the services I can offer; exquisitely planned weddings, corporate events and launches, and beautiful commemorative celebrations.

Michelle Dayman Events offers services as simple as a consultation to provide you with the checklists, contacts, unique ideas and handy hints you need to get you on your way, right up to a full coordination of your wedding or event, with you at every step so that you are free to relax, enjoy and make the most of your special moments.

MDE will also be staging unique stand alone events throughout the year to shake things up a little, and provide Albany residents with another reason to dress up to the nines, enjoy a social night out, or experience something a little different to the norm.  Watch this space... 

What 5 words best describe your working style?

champagne-service - innovative - vibrant - energetic - passionate

What one tip would you give any bride planning the catering for the big day?
Delegation...
In my experience (over 100 weddings worked & counting) the most beautiful brides are the ones that are free of the burden of having to check up on various elements that need to fall into place and simply enjoying every moment of the day.  There are always plenty of people on hand and willing to help you to make your day perfect- so give every willing hand a task to take care of, then all you have to do on the day is enjoy the magic!
Or even better, allow Michelle Dayman Events to take care of everything intricate detail...

You often have several events on the go at the same time.  Where do you get you passion and energy?
The saying goes “if you love what you do, you never work a day in your life”... and I adore what I do!! So while every event involves a whirlwind of late nights, a million lists written and flashes of inspiration at the strangest times (a la 2am)- at the end of it all there is the reward of knowing that the event you have done has been a success, enriched lives or created beautiful memories.  I am a sucker for a deadline and can be a pocket rocket when faced with a mammoth workload- exhilarating!!

Any dreams for the future of MDE that you can share?
From little things, big things grow!!
In the next 12-18 months I will be striving to turn Michelle Dayman Events into a full time business as well as set up a beautiful consultation lounge and work space for me and my clients.  So MDE is a work in progress - eventually I plan to expand to event decor provision, wedding celebrancy & even weddings abroad.

How can our readers find out more about MDE? 
For further information on what I can offer you, your family or business you can visit my brand new website www.michelledaymanevents.com.au, follow me on Facebook at Michelle Dayman Events or email michelle@michelledaymanevents.com.au

Hot House Flowers...

The wait is over! 

The eagerly anticipated arrival of the flowers - all the way from Africa! 

And, yes, they are every bit as beautiful as the Bride had dreamed. Hot House Flowers does it again!

Businesses I Adore ... Sharp Infusion

Meet Daniel.  

He's destined for big things - so remember, when he's famous, you read it here first!  

Daniel has a talent for creating mind-blowing-top-notch-nosh.  I caught up with him just before he kicked off an Italian Infusion cooking class last week (hence the roma tomatoes - thanks Nilla!) & this is what he had to say about wedding catering.

So, Daniel, tell us a little bit about Sharp Infusion fine catering.

 Sharp Infusion fine catering began just over two years ago. I started the business with the aim in mind of bringing together passion, local produce and creativity into the homes of my clients, specialising in fine dining dinner and cocktail parties.

The demand that shortly followed, was for weddings etc, so now, I cater pretty much anything that involves food.

Custom menus for every event, ensure that the Host/Hostess/Bride, whoever it may be, is given exactly what they want, every-time. Sharp Infusion wedding catering has become a huge success, and its just so much fun being involved in creating an experience that will be raved about!

What inspires your creations?

I’m a creative person. Dishes and ideas about food just pop into my head while I’m doing the shopping. Stumbling across a fantastic ingredient at the market place, fresh crab or fresh raspberries for example, really gets me excited, and before you know it, a new dish is born! It all comes from experience I guess.

What 5 words best describe your style?

 imaginative – creative – fresh – vibrant - local

What one tip would you give any bride planning the catering for the big day?

This is YOUR day. I mean, really, it’s not about anyone else, its about a celebration of your new future.  So make it YOUR wedding.  Get the colours you want, get the candles you want, have the food you want, create the atmosphere that YOU want.

Any dreams for the future of Sharp Infusion that you can share? 

There will be a TV show eventually.  Watch this business expand Australia wide over the next few years!

How can our readers find out more about Sharp infusion?

We are expanding our online business rapidly, as this provides everyone with access to any information they require. Sharp Infusion fine catering also has a facebook page, which is linked in with my Blog and online shopping centre. For the latest updates and events, information is posted to my website blog, www.sharpinfusion.com.au/blog

PS 

Sharp Infusion is a major sponsor of the Midsummer Nights Ball to be held at the new Albany Entertainment Centre!  The Albany Community has joined forces to hold a most regal affair  - a black tie benefit for those Australian’s affected by the WA, Queensland and Victorian Floods. Come along & take part in bidding for a  Sharp Infusion private 6 course dinner for 4 people, valued at $700.00! 

Businesses I Adore ... Butterscotch Australia

I have been treated to the most gorgeous flower-girl dresses at recent wedding, & I often wish the dresses were made in my size!  What fun it would be to dress up as a princess for a day!

Just last month, Albany was blessed with the opening of a tantalising new home-wares & children's clothing boutique - Butterscotch Australia.  So, we now have a gorgeous supply of flower-girls dresses right on our doorstep!

I chatted with the owner of this business, Caroline Higgins, while her little princesses modelled some stunning dresses for me.  I went home with a case of  hair-envy which matched nicely with my dress-envy.

Caroline, tell us a little bit about Butterscotch Australia...

Butterscotch is a hidden little gem. We aspire to bring beautiful home & children’s products to our gorgeous clients, and we want them to walk away feeling a little bit special after they have shopped with us!

What inspired you to open the shop?

I love decorating my home with unique products and also dressing my children in beautiful clothing, and I believed there was a missing gap in Albany’s market place that needed filling!

What 5 words best describe your service philosophy?

special - friendly - individual - helpful - unique

What one tip would you give any bride planning their flower-girl's outfit?

Choose a Classic, Pretty, Stylish dress that can be worn again. And remember that a simple dress can look great with gorgeous accessories such as flowers, butterflies or jewellery.

Any dreams for the future of Butterscotch that you can share? 

At the moment we are expanding with a website and in the future we hope to move to a bigger premise and open more stores in WA.

How can our readers find out more about Butterscotch Australia?

Come into our gorgeous store at Shop 3 Mews Arcade, 140 York Street, Albany or check out our Facebook page – Butterscotch Australia. Website launching February.

Businesses I Adore ... Catherine Ross Collections

I feet like getting married.
Again.
Just so that I can wear one of these veils.  

It was like stepping into a dress-up-box-for-grown-ups. Today Catherine showed me her collection of stunning veils. Breath-taking. I was truly surprised by the variety of styles she has created from a 1950's influenced scull-cap style to quirky whimsical feather numbers!

If you're getting married, even if you thought you wouldn't wear a veil, do yourself a favour & visit Catherine Ross anyway ... you might just change your mind (or get married again!).

Tell us a little about Catherine Ross Collection’s veils…  

My veils are all hand made using various laces, organza, fresh-water pearls, Swarovski crystals and feathers. All the lace is hand sewn which may take 8-10 metres. They are all unique.

What inspires your unique designs? 

I have always had a passion for any forum of art / painting & intricate embroidery / textiles so I have combined the two to create my intricate veils.

Noticed any wedding veil trends lately? 

Each bride is unique in her taste & style so I think there really isn’t so I think there really isn’t a trend in a certain style. There are so many veils & other bridal headwear that a bride will easily find the veil that will suit her.

What five words best describe your service philosophy? 

special – satisfied – individualistic – unique - incomparable 

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding? 

I would tell them “go with your hearts & create a date that you will love and cherish forever”. 

Any dreams for the future of Catherine Ross Collections that you can share? 

To continue creating unique veils that brides will love to wear. 

How can our readers find out more about Catherine Ross Collections? 

My website will be coming soon. For Private Viewings, call me on 0408 932 912.

Businesses I Adore ... Morgan Annie

Meet Kylie Apostoles-Nevile.  She's the brains behind Morgan Annie - All Natural Beauty.  Yes, she actually developed her own range of make-up ... I can't even begin to imagine what a huge accomplishment is. She's totally focused on creating products that contain no mineral oil or petroleum & that are free of harmful chemicals & preservatives -100% natural.

(Kylie tells me that there's soon going to be an announcement of an award... but she won't tell me any other details!  I'll keep you posted...)

Kylie is also a trained hair-dresser which means she's pretty handy to have around on your wedding day.  I asked Kylie a few questions about her weddings.

First, tell us a little bit about Morgan Annie

It is all natural beauty!  A full range of 100% Pure Mineral Make-up. Creates a beautiful all natural flawless finish without sacrificing the health of your skin.

You've been doing hair and  make -up for weddings for 15 years now.  What was your most memorable "wedding moment"? 

Every wedding is memorable as each one is special in its own way. Spending the morning with the bride & being part of her special day... lots of laughter & some tears.  Weddings just bring out  all the emotions...AND definitely the moment the Bride walks out with her gown on for the first time - seeing her face glow with happiness..

Noticed any wedding makeup trends lately?
Hair - soft, tousled & a lot on the side ... more red carpet hair!

Make-up - dewy & flawless, eyes defined but more smokey browns and greys ... and LASHES, beautiful full long LASHES. I use the single eyelashes which is more natural but makes a BIG difference to the eye.  Lips - soft pink nude lips.

What 5 words best describe your service philosophy? 
I think I need someone else to answer this!   calm - helpful - creative - passionate.  I can only come up with 4.  (Note from Editor; I'll add one - knowledgeable)

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding?
Have a good beauty routine, have your trial 1-2 months before, & make sure you have pictures of looks you like & don't like.

Any dreams for the future of Morgan Annie that you can share?
Morgan Annie -all natural beauty has been a dream come true. Educating women and young girls more about using 100% Pure minerals and teaching how to apply mineral make-up to enhance your own natural beauty and making them feel good about themselves. I would love to take Morgan Annie nationally and internationally..

How can our readers find out more about Morgan Annie?
Very soon you will be able to buy Morgan Annie mineral makeup from The Hair and  Beauty Company in Albany. I also do Mineral Make-up make-over parties..  And soon I will be launching my new Morgan Annie website - www.morganannie.com.au

Kylie's email address is kylie@kylieapostoles.com

The Business of Knitting...

There are so many very talented people in Albany, and I am very fortunate to get to meet some of them in this job.

Leanne Prouse is one of them.  Leanne is the creator of the Ella Rae brand of yarn as well as hundreds of original designs for knitters of all skill levels.  Leanne's books are  especially popular in The States where she has quite a following!

Over the last month, we've been capturing some of these designs for a new book that another creative talent, Sheryl Stephens, is designing with Leanne.  Here's a few of the photos with our gorgeous models...

If you're looking for a gorgeous Christmas gift for a knitter in your family, Leanne's latest book Knitting at Home features 30 of her most popular patterns, along with 30 brand-new projects for every corner of the house.  Projects include cushions, bags, slippers, blankets, children's clothes, tote bags and more.

Businesses I Adore ... The Rocks Albany

Meet Noelene.  Noelene is the face behind one of Albany's most prestigious wedding venues, The Rocks Albany.  Built in 1882, The Rocks was once the vice regal residence of WA's governors.  With  seeping view, manicured gardens & immaculate heritage interiors, The Rocks is really a bit special, so its not hard to see why its a dream wedding venue.  I had a chat with Noelene about  weddings at The Rocks.

Tell us a little bit about "The Rocks" as a wedding venue and honeymoon destination?
The Rocks Albany is the only 5 star heritage accommodation in Western Australia so is a unique accommodation and function venue. Situated on 2 acres in the heart of Albany and with unobstructed views of Princess Royal Harbour, this nationally heritage listed property will suit almost any occasion.

You've seen a lot of weddings at "The Rocks". What has been your most unusual "wedding moment"? 
My favourite moment was a wedding on April fool’s Day a few years ago…it BUCKETED down with rain and as the sun managed to poke its way through the clouds, the photographer raced the wedding party into the parterre garden and took the most gorgeous photo from the verandah looking down on them with the sun shimmering in the water on the pavement…absolutely stunning.

Unusual..hmm…that’s a hard one…I guess having a witches and warlocks theme is probably the most unusual wedding I’ve had!

Noticed any wedding makeup trends lately?

Can’t say I’ve noticed actually - I’m usually too busy making sure everyone has what they need before leaving the building!

What 5 words best describe your service philosophy? 

relaxed - sincere - “no problems” attitude - welcoming - available

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding? 

Relax, it will all be perfect on the day!

Any dreams for the future of The Rocks that you can share? 

I’d love for people to come to Albany just to stay with us, and then of course enjoy ALL that this amazing place has to offer!

How can our readers find out more about The Rocks?  

Website; www.therocksalbany.com.au And we’ll be on facebook VERY soon! Or call me on 08 9842 5969.

Businesses I Adore... Kookas Catering

Kookas is really more of an "Albany Institution" than just a business so I probably don't need to introduce these two.  Jo and Ian MacInnes have been in the "good food" game since before some of their brides were even born (whoops sorry guys - didn't mean to rub it in!)

Kooka's has been around so long in Albany that you  are known most of the locals... but for those from out of town, tell us a little bit about Kookas...
After marrying in Scotland in 1988 and moving back to Australia, we spent the next 3 years catering in the Goldfields. We came back to Albany in 1992 , firstly as owner operators of the Iconic Kookas Restaurant and for the past 7 years as Kookas Catering. Our aim is to provide a personalised service, tailored to the individual needs of our clients. Specialising in Weddings and large corporate events, we know what goes into managing catered events and can assist from start to finish.

You guys work long and hard to keep Kookas ticking along. How do you get you energy and inspiration?
We always strive to do our best everyday as there is always something new in the food industry, plus we still love what we do.

What trends have you noticed lately in the way of wedding catering?
Formal weddings are still popular but couples are being more creative with their venue choices and making their wedding unique. Less formal “cocktail style” weddings, often with noodle boxes are being frequently chosen.

What 5 words best describe your service philosophy?
Always pay attention to detail.

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding?
Secure your venue, caterer and photographer as soon as you can!

Any dreams for the future of Kookas that you can share?
To dine at the world’s finest restaurants, come back with new ideas and share the experience.

How can our readers find out more about Kooka’s Catering?
We can be found at kookascatering.com.au or we can be contacted on 98 447884 or 0417 995 096 to discuss details or to arrange an appointment to meet with us and help us to design your perfect menu.

Happy Birthday Blog...

My blog is 12 months old today!

Is it too early in the day to open this bottle that a very generous client gave me last week?

"If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life."

Businesses I Adore... Albany Party Hire

One of the biggest decisions to make when planning a wedding is obviously where to hold your event.   With no shortage of scenery here in Albany, marquees are a popular choice because of the flexibility they offer. Beach view, vineyard setting, farm location... or maybe all of the above?? 

Meet Jodie and Lee, the new faces behind Albany Party Hire, which offers much than just marquees for wedding planners.   There couldn't be a couple better suited to this industry than these two.  Lee worked for a party-hire business way back when he was a uni student, and loved it so much that he and Jodie took over Albany Party Hire earlier this year.  Jodie is the very talented foodie behind the "Champion Chef" dinner party game and Champion Chef catering.  She also has a great sense of style so, brides, you're in safe hands!

They both can party.  I know - I've seen them!   I recently had a chat to them in amongst the chaos of "show week".

What drew you both to this business? 
We like parties

Describe a typical wedding for Albany Part Hire. 
Every wedding is unique at Albany Party Hire

Noticed any wedding trends from your booking? 
White folding resin chairs
(Note from Krysta - I also spotted some very groovy goldfish bowls for hire in their office - imagine them on a bridal table!)

What 5 words best describe your service philosophy?
thorough - timely - professional - fun - personal

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding?
Make it the most memorable day of your life

Any dreams for the future of Albany Part Hire that you can share? 
Its a secret!

What is the memorable moment from your own wedding?
 Smoking a cigarette in my gown at the end of the night at a Fremantle nightclub  - don't publish
this!   ("Whoops" - Krysta)

How can our readers find out more about Albany Party Hire?
Drop in! Website, Facebook, Gateway
Albany Party Hire is located at  3 Graham St, Albany

The Village Hub...

There's a village feeling about Middleton Beach. You see the same faces down  at the beach at 6am every morning.  Everyone greets each other with a friendly wave, and usually knows their name.  The pace is slightly slower than in town.  There's a sense of community.

And every village has a central meeting place.  At Middleton Beach, that place is Bay Merchants. 

I've just finished a fun shoot for Bay Merchants' soon-to-be-released new website, being developed by Claire Hanson of Hanson Executive Management.  Claire is fairly new to Albany and brings with her some fantastic media experience, having spent 4 years as Editor-In-Chief of magazines such as "Singapore Tatler".  

I can't wait to see the website!!  But in the meantime, here's a sneak-peek of the shoot...

Businesses I Adore... Amanda Porritt Make-Up Artist

Here's the second in my series of profiles of businesses I've worked with on weddings.  Meet the gorgeous Amanda.  She's everything a make-up artist should be in my opinion!  Aside from being totally stunning herself, Amanda is as lovely as she looks! I asked her a few questions about her work with weddings...

What drew you to the beauty industry? 

I was always the one making up my girlfriends before we went out, always the one obsessed with nail polish & makeup as a child so it just seemed to be the way to go, after doing my training I knew that it would always remain my true love and that it would be a profession that I would enjoy and succeed at.

Noticed any make-up trends from your recent weddings? 

I've definitely seen a real increase in the request for a "glamorous" look including false eyelash pieces & winged liquid eyeliner to increase the look of the eye area and really bump up the glamour!

What 5 words best describe your make-up style? 

versatile - flattering - long-wearing -  comfortable - complimentary

You're currently planning your own wedding. What one tip would you give our readers? 

Get yourself a good skin care routine ASAP!  Make up can only take you so far, but good skin shines through any makeup, and will make you FEEL confident too!

Any dreams for the future of your business that you can share? 

My business has a small clientele which suits my current lifestyle, but I will be focusing solely on beauty therapy in years to come, to fit in with the patter of little feet!

What is the memorable "wedding make-up moment"? 

Watching brides or mother-of-the-bride look at themselves/the bride after the makeup, hair dress is on - the expressions, and emotions of feeling so beautiful and feeling like a real princess  - it's fantastic for me knowing that I played a part in one of life's unforgettable moments. 

How can our readers find out more about Amanda Porritt? 

Contact me on 0439 983 513 for information and price-lists.

Businesses I Adore... Wignalls Wines

Today, since its the beginning of a new month, I’m starting a new weekly series - every Monday I'll be introducing you to the people behind some of the wedding + events services around Albany.  First cab-off the-rank is Wignalls Winery, as I am still on a high from Saturday’s wedding.

On the weekend, my brother and I shot a gorgeous, very classy wedding. I’d never taken photos at Wignalls before (aside from snapshots at Wingall’s renown summer events), and so I was completely blown away by the variety of stunning photo opportunities there, especially at the “Golden Hour”. This is what we “photogs” call the magical light we only get for the last hour before the sun disappears. Can't wait to share the photos from Stephen + Flick's wedding!

We were literally running from one location to another (complete with a very obliging bride in high-heels). Avenues of eucalypts, rows of vines, fresh round hay-bales, a glowing granite-walled cellar, clumps of tall pines with dappled light… you name it, we had it!  I had a chat with Claire and Rob Wignall, the hard-working duo behind it all..

What makes Wignall’s weddings venue unique?

Its a surreal venue with manicured gardens, and sheltered from all weather.

Describe a typical wedding at Wignalls?
They range from fully formal right through to cocktail parties. We can cater for up to 400 guest in a marquee within a beautiful outdoor setting.

Noticed any wedding trends at your weddings?

Cocktail parties are very much the current trend in 2010

What was your most memorable "wedding moment" at Wignalls?
Our own in 1998! A casual setting with close family and friends

What one tip would you give any readers who are planning a wedding?
Enjoy your special day the way you want it to be, and throw the rules book out the window!

Any dreams for the future of Wignalls that you can share?
Our dream - a dedicated function room is our long term aim!

How can our readers find out more about Wignalls Weddings?
The best way to see what we can offer is to attend a summer concert so the "feel" of the venue allows you what you can expect, then to make an appointment to discuss details further. Our website is http://www.wignallswines.com.au/

Creative People.... Meet Lorraine

Meet Lorraine Harrison, our final "Creative Person, and a dedicated potter of over 30 years.  Being a leading member of Viewpoint Inc (promoting 3D artists within the Great Southern Region of WA) Lorraine devoted much time and energy encouraging artists working in form and design to showcase their fine craft in Viewpoint biennial exhibitions.  I  asked Lorriane a few questions about her craft...

 

What materials do you work with?
Working with clay is a two way effort - clay and me.

What's the first artwork you can remember making? 
In 1979 I joined a country pottery club, but my enthusiasm to produce large pieces were far too big for their kilns so graduated to a back yard potter.

What inspires you?
The last stage of a long journey through many processes of producing ceramics - the 'cracking open the kiln door'. Revelation - excitement or another challenge!

What has been your proudest artistic achievement so far?
Works purchased for the City of Perth collection. Life member of Viewpoint Inc.

What five words describe your creative philosophy? 
Enthusiasm-experimentation-capturing the essence!

Where can we see more of your work? 
My major galleries have recently closed - however in Exhibitions and biannual Kaleidoscope also Vancouver Cafe, Albany and my Studio in Wollaston Road, Middleton Beach.

Creative People.... Meet Raphael

And now for something completely different. Meet Raphael van der Waag.

I had such fun taking this photo - I felt like I was on the set of "Myth Busters" trying to make the most sparks fly for the camera! If you're not familiar with Raph's name, you'll definitly know some of his works of art. In particular, it is Raph's handy-work (with addition of Mark Hewson's glass - see Thursday's post) on display in the foyer at the Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre.  Raph took off his welding helmet to answer some questions for me.

What materials do you work with?

Predominantly metals

What's the first artwork you can remember making?

It was in high school and was titled "Wind in the Reeds".  It had slender metal reed then half way up there was limestone carved to give the effect of the wind. I sold it to a local lady.

What inspires you?

Mainly the natural elements of the landscape, with the public artworks, architecture is also important – I try to make the artwork integrate with the environment.

What has been your proudest artistic achievement so far?

Probably actually being able to make a living from my art.

How would you describe your creative philosophy?

I try and pare things back to the absolute minimum – try to say all the important things without embellishments.

Where can we see more of your work?

The Albany Leisure Centre, the Deptartment of Main Roads' new building on Chester Pass Road, plus public art at Mt Barker and Borden. And very shortly, a new scupture along the Indian Ocean Drive. Then later in the year, more pieces at Perth College and the new Path West lab in the QE2 Medical Complex.

Creative People.... Meet Annette

Let me introduce Annette Davis. Aside from her very important role as "mentor" to me, Annette has worked in a range of other visual arts roles over many years including as a well respected art curator, and as the coordinator of the annual national painting prize, the City of Albany Art Prize, and the fabulous Paperatzi events.  More recently, Annette has been stepping out of her comfort zone focusing  more on the role of "exhibiting artist" herself.

Annette has also earned the label of "marriage saviour" after rescuing my husband and I from each other during the hanging of my Southern Art Trail exhibit. Thank you Annette. I'm willing to return the favour should you ever need it. Here's Annette's answers...

What materials do you work with?

Currently I work with paint, paper, charcoal, cloth, thread - sometimes separately and sometimes altogether!

What's the first artwork you can remember making?

I can remember making a giraffe out of cardboard boxes when I was about 5 years old. I can remember thinking it was absolutely amazing, such a good likeness to a giraffe - definitely a case of 'in the eye of the beholder'!

What inspires you?

Landscape and nature - I love responding directly to a location by capturing the textures through frottage (rubbings), drawing and photography. I'm also fascinated by the layers of stories all around us - finding ways to convey these layers keeps inspiring me.

What has been your proudest artistic achievement so far?

I'd have to say that making the decision to describe myself as an artist is my proudest artistic achievement! That signified a major turning point in my life, and led to me renting a studio space in the old Masonic Lodge in Albany. Eleven other artists have studios there and it is a very encouraging, supportive environment. I feel very lucky to be there. The book "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron has been very influential.

How would you describe your creative philosophy?

Just do it, each small step is a step in the right direction.

Where can we see more of your work?

At the IN HOUSE exhibition, November 19-27, 2010, at the Vancouver Arts Centre, Albany.