fan favorites: kate dawson

Today's fan favorite comes from an old-time friend of mine from High School, Kate Dawson. Back in the day, she drove a red VW bug convertible at age 16 and started a rhinestone collection practically at birth. Lately, she's up to all kinds of neat stuff: she wrote, produced and starred in: The A**hole in my head (check out the recent write-up in the link by "ahem"the New York Times.) She also makes hilarious mini webA**odes revolving around the theme of her show, and her dream of meeting Queen Oprah. Kate is also involved with Rockethub, a genius grassroots idea created to fuel amazing projects of creatives. It really deserves its own post, and will be coming soon. Anyway, as you can see, she's kindof a menagerie of interestingness, folks...meet Kate:

(AW) What's your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(KD) There are SO many pieces on Art Wall that I love, but I think my favorite is Jess Swift's Summer Breeze probably because it's very similar to the style of the old vintage Buzza prints...which I just so happen to collect! What's Buzza you ask?? Well here's a little blurb from antiqueweek.com: Buzza was a Minneapolis gift greeting company established in 1907 by George Buzza. Originally created as a company which sold collage advertising posters, Buzza later began selling greeting cards. The company created many different motto verses about mothers and homes as well as inspirational themes about friendship, joy, sorrow, and love. The cards and posters were known for their bright colors and interesting papers used.

(AW) Okay then! Interesting little history tidbit, I actually think I have one of those stashed in the basement somewhere..a ballerina. Moving on...what is your most cherished handmade posession?

(KD) Without a doubt, it's the painting (black ink and watercolor) my Mom drew of my favorite role I've played to date. It was the role of Lili in the musical Carnival! She found one of the press pictures online and it inspired her stunning illustration that still excites me when I walk past it daily. She's an extroidinary artist and it's one of my most prized possessions.

(AW) What's tops on your wishlist?

(KD) I have a weakness for Chanel, and this STUNNING and elegant, utterly classy pair of Chanel shoes are BEGGING to be mine...I fear I will have to let them down. Total Grace Kelly. Totally fabulous.

(AW) Georgeous! I'm a Loeffler Randall girl, myself, and sadly, I've been having to "let her down" as you say, a lot lately. Switching gears to a bit of a lower price-point, what is your favorite item in your home under $10?

(KD) My Mom found this beautiful Art Deco ash tray for $10 at a garage sale in Illinois--and while I don't smoke, I have found it to be an excellent holder for my pearls.

(AW) I'm sensing a theme here: art deco, pearls, glamor. What's your favorite place to be in the world?

(KD) That would have to be my parents cottage at Epworth-Assembly in Ludington, Michigan. The cottage has been in our family for 2 generations, and it is just the most relaxing and beautiful place in the world. It's on the side of a dune, nestled in with dozens of other cottages, and the view of Lake Michigan from the deck is simply spectacular (and did I mention the cottage is only about 100 steps from the beach?) But not only is Epworth beautiful...it's also filled with families who have all been going there for generations, so everyone knows everyone. It's a true respite from the world, and I ache for it all year long.

Thank you so much, Kate, a really beautiful assortment of favorites.

Hey, New Yorkers, check out Kate's show on August 30th, 7:00 at Birdland: 315 W. 44th St.

fan favorites: brittany K.

Happy Friday! I haven't posted this feature in a few weeks and have decided to bring it back bi-weekly. Is it bi-weekly or bi-monthly, I never know. Every two weeks, how's that? While I love putting them together, they do take a while to complete and I don't want to grow tired of them. That said, here's the first bi-weekly/monthly post, by the lovely Brittany, a local art student and my little helper. And by little, I mean she is about 4 inches taller than me...and she's super:

(AW) Hi Brittany! I'm glad you're joining us today. Each time I do this little interview I get to learn at least one new thing about the victim, and you're someone that I'm sure has more than a few fun facts up her sleeve. First off, what's your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(BK) That's a tough one. It's probably On Faith by Lisa Golightly of Kiki and Polly. I love the anonymity of the subject and the abyss around him. I love the way Lisa handles perspective, and how she gives her subjects a sort of lightness, as if floating in space.

(AW) I know, her pieces have a serious pull, no? So nostalgic. What is your favorite summer memory?

(BK) My parents live near a lake and small woods, so it was always fun to find baby rabbits, squirrels and raccoons. One time we also found some ducklings that had fallen through a sewer grate and had to scoop them out. My dad built a pen for them to nurse them back to health, and we ended up releasing them once they were old enough to take care of themselves. (Image: Stevepgh1959)

(AW) What is your favorite item in your home under $10?

(BK) I feel most at home when hiding inside a (rather oversized) acid-washed jean jacket that I found at Goodwill last fall. It's been the catalyst for quite a few strange conversations, and it's warm--perfect for downtown biking (Image: Revolve Clothing)

(AW) I'll bet that's a conversation piece. Are you even old enough to remember acid wash from the first time 'round? Perhaps you had an acid-washed onesie. Changing subjects: what's your favorite new item for summer?

(BK) I'd say the novel that I just checked out from the library: Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhoue Five. I've been working on East of Eden by John Steinbeck, among other reading, for close to two years now. I'm finally down to the last ten pages, but I want to savor them, and I keep waiting for the perfect time to end the novel. In the meantime, I've begun reading Vonnegut again and am ready for a change. (Image: Amazon.com)

(AW) I'm the same way with savoring the last pages of a book. So bittersweet. Speaking of savoring, what is your favorite place to be in the world?

(BK) At this point, sitting across from an interesting person, be it a family member, friend or stranger and having good conversation about anything at all.

(AW) A simple pleasure. you are sure to be happy in life with that at the top of your list. Thank you so so much, Brittany. You're a star.

fan favorites: mary r.

I'm very excited to introduce you to my friend Mary R. who did this week's "fan favorites" interview. Mary's one of my local gals, she was one of my first new friends here in Madison. Did I tell you what great friends I have here in Madison? Well, you'll see. She's one of those unique specimens that just flat-out has great taste, fabulous style and always seems put-together. She values quality over quantity (a trait I struggle with) and generally makes good choices in her wardrobe and home. She was one of my first friends to make a purchase from Art Wall, and continues to be a super customer. Here she is!

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(MR) My favorite piece is Jenny Lee Fowler's silhouette. There is something very whimsical and old fashioned about them. I love the classic look of the black paper against a white background. I also like the way Jenny gives them a modern, natural twist by cutting them out of leaves and birch bark. I can't wait to get some made of my kids! Now if only I can get them to sit still long enough for the profile picture.

(AW) What is your favorite childhood summer memory?

(MR) Watching the World Cup this year has brought back some of my favorite childhood summer memories of playing soccer. I started playing when I was seven and by the time I was twelve I was very busy with soccer. Summers were time for camps and tournaments all over the US. Camps were a week long at various different colleges. Our free time was spent messing around campus, eating meals in the dining halls, and spending the nights in the dorms, all with your best girl friends. It was like going to college in your early teenage years without the studying. The tournaments involved traveling by airplane or long car rides to different cities. Many thanks to the parents that drove and chaperoned these trips. We were wild!

(AW) What is your favorite item in your handbag?

(MR) My Kate Spade Tatum Sunglasses. They were a splurge when I bought them about 6 or 7 years ago at a cute little store that used to be on State Street in Madison. I can't believe I still have them and haven't lost or broken them! They're oversized but not too big, and comfortable for wearing all day. Plus, they have the cutest bright green case that is easy to find in my monsterous purse/diaper bag.

(AW) Yes! I remember eyeing that case before in your bag, I love it. Speaking of splurges, what is a luxury item on your wish list?

(MR) A Madeline Weinrib rug. I first saw them in Domino Magazine years ago and have wanted one ever since. I always make a trip to ABC Carpet and Home when I visit my sister in New York. Last time I was there, I finally made it to the top floor where the Madeline Weinrib Atelier is. The rugs are even more gorgeous in person! I love all the colors that she uses, bright pinks, oranges and lavender. I have recently moved to a new, old house with all wood floors. I would love to have a rug for every room! I want a zig-zag rug for caroline's room , a striped one for Max's nursery, an Ikat for my room and a big 9x12 seed rug for the living room. Is that too much to ask for?

(AW) Of course not! Very reasonable requests, I think. Now, moving from the living room to the closet: who is your favorite clothing designer?

(MR) Anything from Anthropologie. I have always dressed casual and I think the clothes there are casual yet pretty and a little bohemian. I've bought so much over the years from the sale rack. You can always find a good deal. I love Joe's jeans and Level 99. I tend to like the tops by Sanctuary, Odille, Ella Moss and Splendid. (Image: AvSanten)

(AW) Sigh, a girl after my own heart. Those are some of my very favorite brands, too. We could tear up ABC and Anthro. together, me and you. Can I tag along on your next trip to the big apple?

fan favorites: my baby-daddy: ryan

In honor of Father's Day, I asked my husband Ryan to do a fan favorites post this week. I'm pretty good at predicting his moves, but he still surprised me a bit. He's notorious for not reading emails all the way through and answered all the questions, instead of picking five as instructed. Soooo, here's all 10 answers, in all their glory:

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(RS) I don't know how I couldn't say the silhouette we have of Polly [by Simply Silhouettes.] I really can't believe how much it looks like her, and by the way, we really need to comb that dreadlock out of the back of her head.

(AW) What is your most cherished handmade possession?

(RS) That would be the hand-carved wooden shoe horse that my lovely wife gave to me. I use it with pride each and every time I put my shoes on.

(AW) What is your favorite new item for summer?

(RS) The wooden cruiser I just bought. Something to tinker with. (Image KDCN Morales)

(AW) Speaking of tinkering, I think I know the answer to this one: what's your dream luxury wish list item?

(RS) It would be a luxury to me: a 1969 Volkswagon Camper and an extra-long camping trip with my girls. (Image: GirlHula)

(AW) Someday, honey, someday. Let's lower the price point a bit, tell us what your favorite item in the house is under $10?

(RS) I'd have to say my ball-point pens, the Pilot V-5. I just love doodling with those things.

(AW) What's a special childhood summer memory?

(RS) My favorite childhood summer memory would be hanging out with Bubba and Bobbo at the Ollman pool in the neighborhood playing games of tag, sharks and minnows, and Marco Polo.

(AW) What is your favorite place to be in the world?

My favorite place to be? For me, it's the mountains, there's nothing better. The Union terrace isn't too bad, either.

(AW) And, last but not least, what is the best thing in your handbag?

(RS) I don't own a handbag but I do very much want a man-purse, and I'd keep lots of different kinds of lipgloss in it--all different colors and flavors.

Fabulous! Have a wonderful father's day.

fan favorites: rachel's picks

Happy Friday, everyone! I have really been enjoying putting these posts together each week. Even when I think I know someone well I get to learn just a little bit more about them. This week's post comes from a super buddy of mine: Rachel T. Rach and I met when I started working at Shopbop in early 2005. We soon found that we shared a love of clothes, home decor, vintage, thrifting, boogie-down music and (don't judge) reality T.V. Folks, meet Rachel:

(AW) What's your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(RT) I'm completely smitten with: "Waiting Spring" by Corella Illustration. Maybe it's because I've got little girls on the brain (I'm a new mom) but I think it's absolutely adorable. I love how soothing and sweet the colors are and the vintage feel of this girl and her sweet little dress make me smile.

(AW) What's your favorite thing to do when you're not working?

(RT) I'm loving the fact that it's summer because this my favorite time of year. I cherish days when I can relax with a wonderful glass of wine and spend time with my husband, baby girl, step-son and pooches. I love sitting outside, eating dinner and enjoying the summer heat. This might sound crazy but also enjoy cleaning. I'm happiest when my house is in order and I can relax and not stress about the laundry-list of things I need to get done. I'm also into decorating my home, music and oh yeah, I love television--"Housewives" is my secret Thursday night indulgence. (Wine image: Mr. T in D.C. on Flickr)

(AW) Who is your go-to clothing designer?

(RT) Since I work around fashion all day long I can honestly say it's kind of hard for me to narrow my favorites down to just one. I do, however, have my staple favorites that I come back to year after year. I'm a pretty simple classic and comfort girl at heart, I love me some blue jeans. Whatever the season, I roll with the trends: boyfriend, skinny, cropped you name it, I love. I'd have to say that Genetic Denim and Citizens of Humanity rank among the tops for me. I'm still a Vince girl for casual pieces and as far as accessories go, I love my Ginette NY jewelry and my Rayban Wayfarers are never far from reach on sunny days. (Image sources)

(AW) What is your favorite place to be in the world?

(RT) This might sound a bit crazy but it's anywhere I am with my family. I love being around my Grandma, she'll be 90 this year. That makes me about as happy as I can be.

(AW) What is your most cherished summer memory?

(RT) Among my favorites, I'd have to include bike-riding all day into the night with my sister and playing in the woods with mom yelling for us to get home for bed. Sitting in the shore of Lake Superior at dusk listening to the waves lapping on the shore while eating Mackinac Island fudge ice cream wasn't too bad, either. (Lake Superior image: Heidigoseek)

fan favorites: molly of charlotte's fancy

This weeks "Fan Faves" comes from Molly of Charlotte's Fancy. If you haven't met her yet, her space online is full of fun projects, life at home, and sweet picks. A favorite column of mine has everything to do with "birthdays and parties." Who wouldn't want tips and tricks for the specialist of days? If that's not enough of an intro, you can get to know Molly a wee bit better by hearing all about her craves and raves:

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(Molly) This is really tough. My favorite artist is Blanca Gomez-I own five of her prints and her 2010 calendar, which sits right next to my monitor, so I look at it and admire every day. I also love Jessica Marquez of Miniature Rhino, who made me a custom heart sampler and helped me give a very special gift to my girls for Christmas. Today I'm choosing "All Together" by Kiki and Polly as my favorite piece. The colors and the composition are exquisite.

(AW) I really love that one too. It soothes my eyes. Now, onto you: what's your most cherished handmade possession?

(Molly) My Christmas stocking, which my grandmother made for each of us kids (there were seven). The stockings are all the same basic pattern but each is uniquely decorated. It's made of red felt with a green sequined Christmas tree and "presents" underneath. Our names are spelled out in ric rac or ribbon. My grandmother passed away quite a few years ago, so my mom carries on the tradition making the same stockings now for new family members. They are all just as wonderful and unique as the ones my grandmother made.

(AW) What's your favorite new item this summer?

(Molly) I am a paper junkie, so I could not get enough of all the National Stationery Show blog posts/reviews this week. I am particularly excited about Ink+Wit's new items-I loved Nole's photos on Oh So Beautiful Paper. I'm also looking forward to new designs by Egg Press, Fugu Fugu Press, and Rifle Paper Co.

(AW) What's your favorite thing to do when you're not working?

(Molly) I love to be outside, especially when it's warm and sunny. I love a good picnic and hike with my husband and two daughters--spring and fall are my favorite times of the year to do that. I enjoy riding my bike, as well as reading outside in the late afternoon sunshine. I'm looking forward to spending all of our free time this summer at the pool.

(AW) What's tops on your luxury wish list?

(Molly) An all expense paid trip around the world for the four of us with first class accommodations all the way. I love to travel--I find it so exciting and exhilarating to see new places--and I'm always planning our next trip. My current list of places/things I'm dying to see: the northern lights in Iceland, Machu Picchu, the Galapagos, Japan and Egypt.

Image credits:

1) Lisa GoLightly

2) Molly de Aguiar

3) Nole/Oh So Beautiful Paper

4) Molly de Aguiar

5) Fred Schalk

6) Sampler photo: Jessica Marquez

fan favorites: jacqueline of so cute it hurts

This week's fan favorite post comes from Jacqueline of the sweetest shop: So Cute it Hurts. Jacqueline is also the unofficial winner of the "nicest person on the internet" award, which is given at random by me only once-ha! She signs every email and blog post with: "have a lovely, merry, happy day," how darling? I approached Jacqueline last week thinking I might post her favorites right before Mom's day so I included a special question for the occasion. Although it is a week later, I couldn't help but include her answer, it is way too sweet to omit. So, without further ado, meet Jacqueline:

(AW) What is your favorite memory of your mother from when you were a child?

(J) Every day at the same exact time around 5:45pm, I would sit at our garden's swing to wait for my mama to come home from work. She always brought back yummy and sweet treats for us. In fact now that I think about it, it pretty much felt like Halloween every day just without the "trick" but lots of "treats!"

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(J) This was a tough question because there are so many great pieces. I think my favorite, however, is the Flora Wall Wear by Neawear in the entryway. It's a perfect wall piece for my little studio. I really adore how she included embroidery and stitching in her wall pieces and her vintage frames are just so irresistible.

(AW) What is your most cherished handmade possession?

The flowers that my mom made for me when I was just 14. They were a true work of love and took her a few weeks to complete. I cherish them and they now perch in my little studio.

(AW) What is your favorite item in your home under $10?

(J) That would be my custom-made "So Cute it Hurts" pins by lovely Gigi of Pinks & Needles They make me smile each time I sew!

(AW) What is your favorite morning drink?

(J) I'm a huge tea lover. One of my daily routines is my morning tea. I'm a big tea drinker, have been for years-I'm a creature of habit and tend to find something I like and stick with it, like the tea leafs from Purple Cane.

(AW) If you could pick anywhere in the world to be right now, where would it be?

(J) Right now, that would be Hamburg, Germany. My fiance lives there but Hamburg is really such a beautiful city blessed with amazing architecture, fashionable shops, inspired artworks and restaurants. Most of all it's wonderful there during Christmas with all the wonderful Christmas markets.

fan favorites: my mom

In honor of Mother's day I decided to invite my mom, Diana Johnson, to talk about some of her favorite things. She's pretty predictable--give her time by the beach or in her garden with family and friends and she's in heaven. You'll see, read on...

(AW) What do you like best about being a mom?

(DJ) Watching my girls grow with bright new ideas and love for other people (and sharing their happiness with others). I love a call about something happy that has happened in their lives.

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(DJ) It's been replaced but it was Jess Gonacha Swift's How to become a Mermaid. I bought it for my friend Marian who lives on the beach. (Image: 2, credit: Jess Gonacha Swift)

(AW) What is your favorite thing to do when not working, or should I say now that you're retired?

(DJ) Gardening when the weather permits, reading when it doesn't. (Image: 3, credit: Katie Stephenson)

(AW) What is the best advice your mother gave you?

(DJ) Be happy with what you have. (Image 4: credit: silhouette house)

(AW) Oh I can just picture her saying that. She was a wise woman who always seemed happy with little things. Speaking of little things, what is your favorite item in your home under $10.00?

(DJ) Photos of family members. (Image: 5, credit: D. Johnson)

(AW) What is your favorite memory of your mother (my grandma) from childhood?

(DJ) Mom always played with me at the beach. She was busy with 4 other children at home but at the beach she gave me her time. She taught me how to make drippy sandcastles--with water and sand. (Image: 6, credit: Oracle)

(AW) What is your most cherished handmade possession?

(DJ) My kids' art: your drawings, and Liz and Jenny's pottery.

(AW) What is your favorite place to be in the world?

(DJ) With your dad and the rest of my family at one of the Monterey beaches. Pacific Grove's are some of the best. (Images:1 and 7, Credit: Katie Stephenson)

Thanks, mom, and happy mother's day to all the mommies out there!

fan favorites: jenny of love me again

It's that time again. Today's "fan favorite" comes from Jenny Nelson of Charleston, South Carolina. Jenny is an old friend of mine from college and the proprietress of Love Me Again Clothing, a vintage and consignment boutique on Coming St. in Charleston.

Jenny is one of those gals that seems to exude style, set trends and break fashion barriers. She's worked at highter-end stores in the past such as Jil Sander, Neimen Marcus and more recently Hampden in South Carolina. Although she can appreciate the occasional luxury clothing purchases, she always comes back 'round to vintage. You could say it's her calling, it suits her.

(AW) First and foremost: what's your favorite piece on Art Wall?

(JN) Chihuahua in a Scarf by Lucy Snowe, for so many reasons. Reason #1: I am really drawn to color photography. Reason #2 I love the vintage pillow and the color of the chair. Reason #3: I could stare at that dog's face all day. It cracks me up how stoic and regal she looks. Either she can't move in her burka or she's actually posing for her portrait. I believe the latter of the two options. She's a diva!

(AW) I agree, total diva. So, you're obviously into vintage and handmade. What is your most cherished handmade possession?

(JN) The cross-stitched sampler that my mom made for me for my college graduation. I know it took her many months to complete so it was a true labor of love. I cherish it now and can't wait to pass it on to the next generation.

(AW) That is too sweet, I remember it from our first Chicago apartment. Speaking of apartments, what's your favorite item in your home under $10.00?

(JN) It's ever-changing as I collect more things, but right now it's my gold-feathred tin peacocks. I found them at an estate sale and the former owner was a wonderful lady named Johnnie Wineglass. What a name, right? When I found the peacocks along with some gold go-go boots from the 60's, I knew that we were kindred spirits. I think of her every time I look at them.

(AW) I'd say, that sounds like you in several decades, of course you will still be wearing the boots and not selling them. On the subject of fashion, what is your favorite new item for spring?

(JN) I'm really digging the romper right now. They're so comfy and fun. Paired with some gold hoops and platform wedges, I feel so "70's glamour." Love it! (Image sources)

(AW) Okay, one last question and it's on the topic of glamour: what is highest on your luxury wish-list?

(JN) I would love to own a shabby beach cottage with a wrap-around porch on Sullivan's Island, one of the prettiest islands surrounding Charleston. I'd fill it with some lovely found objects and furniture, leave the doors and windows open to the sea, and snuggle up with a good book on the hammock. That sounds so luxurious to me. (Image: Flickr user Jamiemck2001)

(AW) Well, you're a lady that goes after your dreams so I'd bank on that happening some day. Jen, thanks for spilling your guts today and giving us a peek into your world, your walls, and your wishes.

fan favorites: lydia of the clueless crafter

Today's "Fan Favorites" comes from Lydia Barry Kutko of The Clueless Crafter and The Maximalists. Lydia and I met online-a place and time I don't exactly remember but we have 2 common threads: Madison, Wisconsin (my current and her former hometown) and art! Lydia is a freelance writer who received her BA in Art History here in Madison, and her MA in Art Market: Principles and Practice from FIT. She is currently 1/2 of the NYC-based event team The Maximalists, with her partner in planning: ABC Dragoo.

(AW) Lydia, first things first, what's your favorite piece on Art Wall?

(LBK) Birch Tree Forest by Lisa Congdon. Gustav Klimt is one of those artists that leaves a lasting image. I'm drawn to works that infuse the decorative with the spiritual--the scintillating trunks of Lisa's Birch Tree Forest feed the eye and soul. I wonder if Lisa knows of Klimt's Forest of Birch Trees?

Many weekends you can find me at the Neue Galerie on the Upper East Side taking in Klimt's masterpieces or delighting in the best Hungarian beef goulash with herbed quark spatzle I've ever had.

(AW) What's your favorite thing in your home under $10.00?

(LBK) Finishing salts. The rose color of coarse Himalayan salt paired with the sel gris (French grey salt) makes a beautiful addition to the table and a perfect accompanient to roasted vegetables or exquisitely seared meats.

(AW) What's a "don't-leave-home-without-it" item in your handbag?

(LBK) Clinique Superbalm Lip Gloss in Apricot. I'm all about accentuating, not compensating. This is a simple go-to beauty remedy.

(AW) What is your favorite thing to do for fun?

(LBK) My husband and I love to preview auctions and go to gallery openings. We're developing our eye and learning about each other's aesthetic and intellectual preferences so that we can collect art with confidence. I'm also a sucker for a morning cappuccino and pain au chocolat with friends. Reminds me of visits to France.

(AW) What is your favorite new item for spring?

(LBK) I'm caught up in a frenzy of redecorating and shopping for furniture and statement pieces for our Upper West Side brownstone. I'd have to say my favorite item for spring are piles of fabric swatches. You can live a dream just looking at and handling all those luscious textures.

fan favorites: alix of modern kiddo

It's my favorite day of the week. Hooray, hooray! This week's fan is Alexandra Tyler of Strawberry Lemonade and Modern Kiddo. Alix and I met in a blogging class and we've been 'net pals ever since. We have a lot in common, I'm learning. We both have one kiddo, a love for art/design and apparently a passion for vintage jewelry...read on..

1. (AW) What is your favorite place to be in the world?

(AT) My favorite place to be is lounging poolside with a good book and a cold drinkie--and of course, my little boy Wolfie splashing happily nearby. Palm Springs or Bali are my two favorite poolside destinations. I should clarify that this is a magical pool with no wild children cannon-balling. A girl can dream, right? (Image: Flickr user y2001222)

2. (AW) What is your #1 pick from Art Wall?

(AT) This was a tough question because there are so many great pieces here. I think my favorite, however is the illustration by Nancy Julsen, "Rose L." I love vintage stuff and I'm always taken by formal portraits. This has such a great "old school yearbook" feel! I also love that I found it in the bedroom section of Art Wall, because I'm always looking for something to hang above my bed (and I'm paranoid that if I hang a heavy frame it will come crashing down on me in the middle of the night..sigh.) Ryan Berkley's Squirrel in a Suit was a totally close second, though.

3. (AW) What's in your handbag that you can't live without?

(AT) Besides my iPhone and lipgloss (which I'm guessing are popular answers!), I would say my favorite item is this little mini roll-on bottle of Kai perfume. It's small enough that it fits in my lil makeup pouch and just a wee dab makes me smell all fresh and perty. (Image: Kai)

4. (AW) What is your go-to morning drink?

(AT) I'm a huge coffee lover. I love a straight-up cuppa joe, with a splash of cream (no sugar please). I can't lie, though, I'm also a fan of fancy coffee too. Mochas and Carmel Macciattos? YUM. I usually get the size with an extra shot in it, so it still tastes like coffee. (Image: Embem30)

5. (AW) What is your favorite item in your home under $10?

(AT) This is the hardest question ever! I am a huge thrifter so I really have a zillion items under $10 in my house that I love. I think I would have to say my favorite item is my vintage jewelry collection. Virtually everything cost $10 or less from the thrift store! Each piece is colorful, sparkly and unique. Almost like lil works of art! (Image: Alexandra Tyler)

fan favorites: michelle ward of when i grow up

Have you met Michelle Ward? She's the upbeat, inspiring creative career coach behind When I Grow Up, where she helps creatives who are at a crossroads between their passion and their "day job." Michelle just recently quit her day job to pursue coaching full-time (congrats Michelle!). She's here today to share some of her recent favorites with us.

(AW) What's your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(MW) I'm so biased, I'm in love with Jess Gonacha Swift's art and You Simply Glow is simply amazing. I actually commissioned Jess to do a piece for my husband and I as a housewarming gift for ourselves for our first home, & it's the most amazing of everything amazing. Jess was actually a client of mine & we're collaborators together over at Spring, but before all of that it was just me going through her site and sighing, thinking it would be so cool to own her art & be her friend. I'm so lucky that I've gotten both her artwork & her friendship!

(AW) What is your most cherished handmade possession?

(MW) I have to go with my custom birdcage veil from CastleBride Couture. It was just the epitome of me, & it made me feel so classy & gorgeous (which ain't the norm!). Kirsten was a dream to work with, & I think I got more compliments on "my little hat" than anything else that day. Except for the chocolate peanut butter pie. Mmmm....chocolate peanut butter pie...

(wedding day image: Kate Leigh)

(AW) What is your favorite thing to do when you're not working?

(MW) There's so much I love doing on a day off, I don't know how I can possibly pick a fave! The thing that immediately comes to mind is packing up the Sunday Times or a great book, grabbing an iced-coffee, & heading to the park with my husband. We used to live near Riverside Park on the Upper West Side, & there were benches facing the water that just had our names on 'em. Now we live near a new park but haven't been there yet--it's been too cold since we moved in November. I just know a new spot is waiting. On a gorgeous day, there's nowhere else I want to be & nothing I'd rather do.

(Oil painting of Riverside Park by Ella Yang. Image: Ella Yang).

(AW) What's your favorite item in your handbag?

(MW) My Mom got tipped off that I wanted the Moleskine 2010 Daily Planners, which are a color a month box set. Every month is a different vibrant color, with a simple number on the cover to represent which month it is. While I can't go anywhere without my Google Calendar on my iPhone, I use my Moleskine planners to loosely map out my day, making sure I take care of the to dos without going too crazy. And they're so bright & pretty--they make me happy just looking at 'em!

(Image: Moleskines)

(AW) What's your favorite new item for spring?

(MW) I've become an adorned headband junkie, & it's so my hat for bad hair days. Being the quirky girl I am, I flock right to the flowers & feathers. LovMely, Featherbrain & LiveInStyle have great selections (I think the one pictured above is my fave!), but sometimes you can score great ones at Target (shhh-it's our secret!).

(Headband image: LiveInStyle)

(AW) I won't tell a soul, Michelle (wink). Thanks ever-so-much for this chat and the little peek inside your life (and your handbag).

fan favorites: kirsten grove of simply grove

Kirsten Grove is an interior designer by trade and authors a popular home decor/design blog:Simply Grove to catalog and share her inspirations and visions. Kristen is sharing her picks with us today for Friday's fan favorites.

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(KG) I am a fan of Ricki Mountain's "Summer of Love." The coloring is great and it would add personality to any room.

(AW) What is the best item in your home under $10?

(KG) My baby blue jar from Urban Outfitters that I scored for $10. I am in love with that particular shade of blue.

(AW) How do you like to spend time when you're not working?

(KG) Hanging out with my kids and hubby is my favorite thing to do. Thrifting and magazine shopping always put me in a happy mood.

(AW) What's a Luxury item on your wishlist?

(KG) Currently on my wishlist is the Bow Wow Wow Slingdoodle Shoulder Bag from Marc by Marc Jacobs. Silly name but oh so lovely bag.

(AW) If you had to pick a favorite clothing designer who would it be?

(KG) Built By Wendy always aesthetically pleases me. I also love Alice + Olivia.

Oh Kirsten, I think we would have a dangerous shopping date together. Dangerous in a good way, of course.

fan favorites: sophie b.

Are you ready for today's fan favorites? Today's fan is Sophie B. of....well she doesn't have a website but trust me, she's unforgettable. I think she's the one person in the world who has more pieces from Art Wall than I do. She's an old friend of mine from College, the future Senator of Illinois and the owner of the title "most generous person I know." Sophie has agreed to share a few of her recent faves today on Art Wall.

(AW) Sophie, what's your favorite piece from Art Wall

(Sophie) My Orange Cuckoo Clock from Decoylab. It's a touch of whimsey in a funky color. People compliment it all the time. It also helped turn my husband's collection of Alpine flea-market oil paintings into an art wall. (image 1)

(AW) What's the best item in your handbag (besides your phone)?

(Sophie) Nars lipgloss. I love it and use it all the time. Someone left it at my house and I have completely stolen it. Not everything makes it to the lost and found basket. (Image 2)

(AW) Hmm, interesting. That's very interesting. Moving on...What's your favorite thing in your house under $10.00?

(Sophie) My signed Leroy Neiman print of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. I found it wrapped in an old blanket in my Dad's storage locker, I almost threw it away. Or my kids' pieces on the "art wall" I've created for them. (image 3)

(AW) Do you have a recent luxury splurge?

(Sophie) I love, love, love the Uggs Corinth style boots I just recently bought. The wedge makes me almost six feet tall. (image 4)

(AW) What's on your spring freshen-up-the-house list?

(Sophie) Newly stained floors in the deepest, darkest shade--without a hint of red. Warm and inviting and already checked off the list. (image 5)

Sophie, thanks for taking time to stop walking around on your new floors with your new boots to talk to us today. We're going to have a chat about that lipgloss :)

Although Sophie doesn't have her own space online, she chose to point us in the direction of her favorite charity: Noah's Hope.

fan favorites: sarah of the hungry bambino

Fan favorites is a new column I will be posting every Friday. It's a quick peek at a few reader raves and faves. Today's "fan" is Sarah of The Hungry Bambino, a fellow Madison blogger and lover of all things epicurean. Sarah is a friend of mine in real life and my resident go-to friend when it comes to anything edible. She authors a blog about cooking seasonally and locally with tips for pleasing picky little taste buds. Here are a few "ingredients" in her life's recipe:

(AW) What is your favorite piece from Art Wall?

(HB) It's a tie between Kelcan's piece, "East," which for some reason reminds me of traveling abroad and Kiki and Polly's "Girl in the Yellow Suit," which brings back memories of time spent at the beach in Holland, Michigan. -images 1 and 2

(AW) What's your favorite luxury splurge..

(HB) I have very dry skin so super thick, rich face cream (Dr. Hauschka or Weleda are my favorites) and facial cleansing oil are a treat to have in my medicine cabinet, especially in winter! -images 3 and 4

(AW) Sarah, I think I can guess, but what's your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?

(HB) Either laze about in the morning drinking the delicious coffee my husband makes and then go for a walk, or cook up a feast (surprise, surprise!) -image 5

(AW) What's your favorite spot in the world?

(HB) Anywhere with my boys, preferably snuggling on the couch reading picture books with Rhys or shaking our booty during our nightly "Dancy Party USA." -image 6

(AW) What's your pick for the best item in your home under $10.00?

(HB) My salt pig. -image 7.

Thanks for sharing, Sarah. Check out The Hungry Bambino for recipe ideas, weekly menus, CSA information and all-around yummy goodness.