Sunday, December 20, 2009

Happy Christmas xoxo




2009 has been a wonderful year for me and my family, with the recent birth of our beautiful Max, and of course the birth of ‘Style Me Gorgeous'.
I want to thank all my Blog and Facebook followers, and everyone who has left lovely comments for me. I also want to thank my lovely online friends whom Ive met through Skout, you know who you are gals...I feel so lucky to be a part of this amazing network of talented ladies who share thoughts and ideas, and support each other not only in business but as mothers. Working from home is certainly not a lonely job when you have online friends to laugh, giggle, smile and cry with! I look forward to meeting many more online friends and styling more business’s gorgeous in 2010. It’s an exciting new year ahead for SMG with the website launch, and lots of plans and ideas bubbling away in my creative mind just busting to come out... I just need to find a few extra hours in each day to do it all lol.

Merry Christmas!, eats lots, love lots, laugh lots.

Chat soon...

Sarah xx

Christmas Inspiration - Pretty In Pink




I love the idea of taking one colour, it doesn't have to be a traditional Christmas colour, and using it as the theme for Christmas decoration, this is just gorgeous! (pics from Hostess With The Mostess and www.bhg.com)

Sarah xx

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Frock


This is the beautiful website I designed for the boutique label FROCK. I love a clean and simple design, and this one works beautifully to showcase Angie's gorgeous garments.

Frock garments are for your precious little girl's special occasions, or.... just because, they are carefully tailored in New Zealand, combining retro flair with a modern edge...

www.frock.co.nz

Sarah xx

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Become a SUNNY MUMMY


A while ago I told you about 'Sunny Mummy', a VERY exciting new venture I have been doing all the design work for. If you haven't heard about Sunny Mummy yet then head on over to the blog to see what its all about, and don't forget to do all your 'mummy' friends a favor and tell them about it too!

Sunny Mummy founder, Stacey believes most mummies these days know about the 'Yummy Mummy' status... she says to forget about trying to keep up with this external illusion and encourages us.... being a 'Sunny Mummy' is such a warmer place to be.

I can tell you there are many exciting things in store for all you mums that want to be a part of this. I have just designed 2 gorgeously positive and inspirational posters for Sunny Mummy that will be available for you to download, print and hang, as a reminder to look after YOU first and SHINE!

All you have to do to get some of this sunshine, is make a donation towards funding the Sunny Mummy Website which will be FREE for all Mummies! The website will be built by mums for mums. Simply email staceysullaphen@bigpond.com for details.

Sarah xx

Sunday, November 29, 2009

A Diggers & Dump Trucks Birthday Party !



Yesterday we celebrated my eldest baby's 3rd Birthday. Wow, I can't believe Jack is 3!

We had a diggers and dump trucks themed party, you may have seen the invite I designed quite a while ago (I love planning parties so like to get organised nice and early). I think the highlight of the day for Jack was the cake... white choc mud with chocolate frosting and violet crumble on top, Jack is just like his mummy and loves his cake ! I kinda cheated and got a plastic dump truck to sit on the cake because there was no way I would have had time to make one with a 6 week old baby (I don't think I could have done it anyway...too hard), anyway I was really happy with the way the cake turned out..what do you think?

The little tins for the orange M&Ms and the orange buckets are from the fantastic online shop www.detailsdetails.com.au I made stickers for the tins, cupcake toppers and a birthday banner to match the birthday invites (I didnt get a good pic of the banner....I seriously need to invest in an SLR camera).

What party can I plan next?.....baby Max's naming day! YAY!.. it will be a baby elephant theme (I already made a few purchases for it before he was born, couldn't help myself hehe).

Sarah xx

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

The Ultimate Party Shop!


Complete Party Boxes has a gorgeous new look! I designed the new logo a while back and have been patiently waiting to see the new website I designed go live, and here it is! YAY

CPB has a HUGE range of party supplies from fabulous designer brands such as Sambellina, Paper Eskimo, Alannah Rose, Banter & Frolic, Raspberry Creative, Ramona Ramona Handmade Candles, Lovely Chubblies, from Germany... Spiegelburg, The Cupcake Wrapper Co and many more...you will find everything you need for your childs next party at Complete Party Boxes.

Sarah xx

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Luving Luvlee Photography







I have been looking forward to getting a photo shoot done by the gorgeous and talented Lee of Luvlee Photography since our second child Max was conceived ! We had the photo shoot last week, and when we visited Lee's studio to watch the slide show of photos for the first time I was crying by the second slide, I was just so overwhelmed with emotion, and so happy with the photos, the are just precious and I can't thank Lee enough.

The whole experience with Lee has been fantastic and I can't wait to get more photos done in the future as my two boys grow. Lee is great with kids, Jack hates it when I point a camera at him and tells me to go away....so I never get a smile out of him on my camera, Lee captured his beautiful cheeky smile that makes me melt just perfectly :-)

Check out the website to view more of Lee's beautiful work;

www.luvleephotography.com.au


become a fan of Luvlee Photography facebook page here

Sarah xx

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

The New and Improved Baby Gift Guide

Here's a vibrant and fun logo I designed for Shannon who wanted a new look for her business 'baby gift guide'. First launched in 2007 www.babygiftguide.com.au is an Australian gift directory specifically for baby gifts from online stores.

Baby Gift Guide makes finding the right gift quick and convenient, featuring a range of online businesses who specialise in providing a wide selection of Newborn Gifts, Twins/Multiples Gifts, Baby Shower Gifts, Gifts for New Mums, Christening/Naming Day Gifts, Eco Baby Gifts, Baby's First Birthday Gifts and Baby's First Christmas Gifts.

Sarah xx

Flirty Bird makeover


The lovely Michelle asked me to makeover her website flirty bird giving it a fresh new look and a colour change. I love it, I think its so pretty :-)

Flirty Bird accessories are all designed and made in Australia, with lots of love and attention to detail. Michelle has a beautiful range of accessories from hair ties to badges and pocket mirrors, you can find that perfect gift you've been searching for all packaged up in a cute little gift case.

Browse the gorgeous new site here www.flirtybird.com.au

Sarah xx

Monday, October 19, 2009

Our beautiful new Baby Boy !




On Thursday 15th October at 2.57pm we welcomed our gorgeous Max Christopher into the world. 7 pounds 6 ounces, 49 cm. He is healthy and happy, and his big brother Jack just loves him. I am recovering from the ceasar (quite and experience ! no more kids for us now ! two beautiful boys will do thanks) and still unwell from a cold Ive had for weeks, but I am just so happy and so in love with my new man, I can't stop looking at him, I know mothers are bias but I really think he is so beautiful.

Thankyou everyone for the congratulations and wishes. I will keep you updated.

Sarah xx

Monday, October 12, 2009

Diggers and Dump Trucks




Since our new little man will be arriving in one week and I'll have my hands full for quite a while afterwards, Im trying to get organised for my eldest little man's 3rd birthday party at the end of November. I just LURRRVVEE planning / designing / preparing for kids birthday parties and I dont want Jacks party to be quickly thrown together in a rush due to the arrival of his little brother. So Ive designed the invites (see above) so they are ready to print and send and Ive scribbled down all the details for decorations and food etc.

As most 2-3 years olds do...Jack loves diggers and dump trucks. So thats the theme this year, using a vibrant colour combo of yellow, orange and charcoal / grey. A few of the things on my list include; safety / traffic cones with big bunches of balloons tied to them, plastic construction hard hats for party hats, rocky road boulders, danger tape fairy bread (choc and yellow sprinkles in stripes), traffic light cookies, tin pails /dump trucks filled with lollies that tie in with the theme or colours ie Jaffas / flakes (as wood)...and more...ooh Im excited !

Im wondering if its possible to make chocolate crackles grey so it looks like cement - like use white choc and a mix of food colourings ? anyone know ?

If anyone has any cool ideas for a digger and dump truck party feel free to leave a comment :-)

Sarah xx

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Frock


Another fantastic logo I had a great time designing, for another lovely client! (have I mentioned I love my job much ? lol)
I am in love with this logo! I just love modern-vintage style. From the moment I heard the business name and was given the design brief for this I was so excited !

Frock garments are for your precious little girl's special occasions, or.... just because, they are carefully tailored in New Zealand, combining retro flair with a modern edge.

Don't miss the launch of frock...sign up here for notification of the online launch; www.frock.co.nz
meanwhile you can follow Angie's blog modern make

Sarah xx

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Precious things for your precious little ones


Piper+Lily has been styled gorgeous - I designed a fresh new logo and blog banner for Natasha to represent her lovely handmade range of clothing and accessories.

Natasha's beautiful range includes delicate Swarovski Crystal & Pearl heirloom bracelets, comfortable cotton slippers to cover up precious little feet and sweet little dresses, all available at http://www.madeit.com.au/piper+lily make sure you keep checking back as new products are added regularly.

All of the items in the Piper+Lily store have been lovingly made by hand & overseen by the toughest of critics - Natasha's 2 year old daughter Piper & her little apprentice, Lily.

Visit the Piper+Lily blog at www.piperandlily.blogspot.com

Sarah xx

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Lixi Designs



Now I have to tell you, my friend Ali who threw me the baby sprinkle, is a woman of many talents....not only is she an amazing cook, but she is also very creative and has just started her own label Lixi Designs for mums & bubs, I designed the logo for her.

The first range of Lixi Designs products includes reversible bibs & burp cloths that use a bamboo/organic cotton blend for environmentally sustainable super softness and extra large wraps/pram covers that don't fall off. Ali has many other products soon to be released, so to stay in the know and support another wonderful mum in business join the Lixi Designs Facebook page

Lixi Designs will be showcasing some of her range at the first Allies Attic Designer Market 'a boutique market from birth to beyond' at Hunters Hill Sydney on the 14th November, and at Paddington on the 12th December !

Sarah xx

A Beautiful Spring Sunday



It doesn't get much better than a relaxing Sunday lunch, with divine food, great friends and the warm spring sun ! I was spoilt on Sunday when my beautiful friend Ali hosted a baby sprinkle for me . Surrounded by the fresh whites and greens of spring blooms my closest friends, my mum and mother in law all sat down, relaxed and enjoyed an absolute feast.

Ali is an amazing cook and whipped up a delicious menu consisting of;

Mint and Lime Iced Tea
Fruit Punch
Caramelised Onion & Goats Cheese Tartlets
Creamy Salmon & Asparagus Linguini
Roasted Pumpkin Risotto
Sesame Chicken Tenders
Asian Mango, PawPaw & Fresh Mint Salad
Rocket, Feta & Walnut Salad
Gingerbread Men
Coconut Cake with White Chocolate & Passionfruit Icing

YUMMO (are you drooling?)

Jack and his little partner in crime, Luca (my godson), had a wonderful time hanging out in Ali's vege patch :-)

Thankyou my girls for a fantastic day xxxx

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Yummy Makeover


Yummy Mummies & Mini Me has had a makeover ! I designed a new logo and website for the lovely Bec, you will have to wait for the website reveal, but for now, check out and follow the revamped yummy blog http://yummymummiesandminime.blogspot.com/

Yummy Mummies & Mini Me is an Australian online store selling maternity and nursing wear, along with children's wear and accessories, sourced from around the globe.

Sarah xx

Thursday, September 3, 2009

Lovely Lou !


Most of you would have heard me speak of Lou before on my blog, she is an amazing, inspirational woman who is the founder of the fabulous social networking site Skout Trade Fair and more recently the innovative new online shopping destination Trifle Shoppe (which I had the great pleasure of designing logo and website for). I dont have enough words to describe Lou, all I know is the world is a better place for her, I just want you to all know about Lou and share some of her great advice...so read on...btw I have to say..my new fave quote is from Lou 'if mumma is happy everyone will be happy' (so so true in my house lol)

What inspired you to start your online business ?


Having been a designer myself .. and then working with soooo many talented industry people on Skout Trade Fair it just seemed like a natural progression of sorts! .. lol.. is that lame ?

I also wanted to offer designers another channel to get their products to the consumer … one which was a bit more direct .. and one that somewhat challenged the status quo …

How did you come up with the name ''Trifle" ?

Seriously? I was sitting in the car (passenger) on the way to an out of town rugby game for my 7 yr old …. Kids in the back and hubby driving… thinking of what I would like to “do” next…. This collaboration project came to mind… something where I could work beside the designers …. Then of course it needed a name … and Trifle came to mind …
It reminded me of Christmas at Grandmas, Cut Crystal Bowls, and Warmth, comfort & trust.

What did you want to be when you were a little girl ?

ha ha ha – I was always the entrepreneur.. I used to draw pictures and sell them to the neighbours… or put on magic shows and sell tickets! I wanted to have my own flower shop … cos I loved creating bouquets… I adored finding mums best fabrics (usually those she had tucked away for something special!) .. and cutting into them to make dresses for my dolls !

What is your favourite colour ?

hmmmmm …. For interiors I love white.. I know boring ! … but u can accessorize white so easily with reds and browns and neutrals …. I wear a lot of black – again boring ! … but I do love Pink ….. ! how many girls don’t?

What is the best thing about being a work a home mum ?

I can work in my jimmies till noon if I like ! … ha ha ha ….. (and believe me – I do!) …. I can go on school and kindy trips with my babies ….. there is not worries if one of the kids is sick … I am not working for anyone else !

What advise do you have for other mums wanting to start a business from home ?

My one piece of tried and tested and true advice I always give and swear by … “ START”

How do you juggle the balance of working at home and being mum ?

I often don’t think I do this very well…. And of course you always feel guilty for something – that is the true female way – right??? But- having said that … my kids are loved and happy and content … they have a mum who is doing what she loves… is always home for them … and is usually totally flexible … so I guess I am doing something right …

I try so hard to either work or be Mum … the two don’t mix very well…. And it becomes frustrating for everyone when I have to get something out and they need me … it doesn’t work… they all play well together and that helps and they are getting to the age where they don’t need me to do every little thing for them …

My two cents in this area of “balance” …. U will never get it completely right …. Some days will be better than others.. don’t stress abt it …. Know you are doing the best for yourself and your family … and the golden rule .. if mumma is happy everyone will be happy!

What do you do to relax / what is your idea of a relaxing day ?

Sunshine, a lake , the kids, hubby, a BBQ and a nice glass or two of NZ wine ! I am not a complicated creature !

Tell us 3 of your favourite things in trifle shoppe right now ?

That is so unfair ! …. Ok …

1. loving Right Bank Babies (USA) right now …. Ellen is a dream to work with . .. so friendly and has definitely been given more than her fair share of creativity… fave piece right now ? Their Reversible Orange One Dress

2. Let Them Eat Cake (UK) – Felicity (Flic) is soooo talented… fave piece from LTEC at the mo? Their Athalie Dress

3. Free range Baby from New Zealand ... Vic is divine … a real sweetheart … her range is such a treat …. Fave item ?… Deco Daisy Pet Pocket Pinafore

Wasn’t I a good girl… I completely covered the globe !

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Meet the amazing mum behind Little Choopie

And speaking of Little Choopie..Amanda is another of the lovely WAHM's that Id like to share a bit about with you..

What inspired you to start your online business ?

Being an avid fan on online shopping and looking for something to do with my time at home when my little boy took his long 3 hour naps (instead on spending all our money on online shopping), I decided to venture into making girls hair accessories. Thrilled with the outcome, I quickly (read very quickly) set up an online store. It was around this time that felt conscience stricken (loving mothers gult) that I didn't have any boys products in my range (after my branding was based on my little boys' namesake, Little Choopie) so I ventured into making some modern whimsical applique'd t-shirts for funky babies and toddlers tro go with my ever expanding range of girls accessories.

How did you come up with the name 'Little Choopie' ?

The name Little Choopie comes from the nickname I gave my little boy, Lucca when he was only days old. I can't ever recall hearing such a name but Little Choopie seemed to fit him so well. A bit fun and definately unique I decided that this name would stand out from all the others, so it was decided I would name my business after my Little Choopie and still have a beuatiful connection with my gorgeous little boy.

What did you want to be when you were a little girl ?

When I was a little girl I wanted to be a hairdresser. I remember standing on stage at the kids talent quest telling everyone that when I grew up I would be a hairdresser. Having moved in a very different direction and become a trauma nurse by profession, I feel like I have almost done a full circle as I now make new accessories for hair (just not quite up to the hair styling/cutting stage yet!!) Its very strange how life leads us down very different paths and I am thrilled to be moving this path.

What is your favourite colour ?

My favourite colour varies between red and pink. I love them both as much as each other and really love red and pink together in childrens fashion. Such a girlie girl, I even had a pink party for my hens night, all the guests were asked to wear a touch of pink, the cocktails were pink and the professional manicurists we had at the hotel only provided pink shades of nail polish. All very fun and ultimately very girlie!!

What is the best thing about being a work a home mum ?

The best thing about being a WAHM (work at home mum) is I still get to be with my little man all day and have lots of fun together but still feel like I am connecting in the adult world as I go about building my business. I love being here when he needs me or being able to take time away from working if he is unwell.

What advice do you have for other mums wanting to start a business from home ?

My advice to other mums wanting to start a business at home is go for it. Follow your dreams and start of slow and steady and NETWORK, NETWORK, NETWORK. Networking has been the most beneficial part to building my business and I have met the most amazing and talented women and men along the way.

How do you juggle the balance of working at home and being mum ?

Initially when I started Little Choopie the balance between working at home and being a mum was a lot easier as my little boy took his long afternoon naps and I would just try to get my orders and website things done during this time. As my business has expanded my little one has started to drop a few sleeps in the afternoon, which has made the balance difficult to obtain but I have been trying to wake earlier and go to bed later at night so I can get more things done during the times he is in bed. Lucca loves my buttons so often when I am making orders he will put all the buttons back into the bags for me or I will get him to do different activities whilst I am making up an order. Whilst at the moment I am finding it hard to obtain a great balance between the two, I am hoping once my website is relaunched things will be more settled.

What do you do to relax / what is your idea of a relaxing day ?

To relax I love to get out of the house and away from the computer with Lucca to go for a babycino whilst I have a nice super mug of decaf cappucino. There is a lovely cafe providore near my home which has a gorgeous alfresco dining area that looks on to a landscaped dam with lots of ducks swimming around. After our "cinos" we go and see the ducks and Lucca has a lovely time. Its so beautiful seeing him all excited about the simple things in life. The ideal relaxing day is going for a drive with my husband to the yarra valley to have a beautiful meal and a few glasses of wine and watch lucca play is a fabulous little playground they have at the grand hotel we love going to.

Tell us 3 of your favourite things in your shop right now ?

ooh 3 favourite things in Little Choopie made with love right now would be the sail away t-shirt, apple of my eye t-shirt and the Ballet x3 large hair ties in a tin. I really love red, white blue and pink colours at the moment and not to mention polka dots! I am crazy about them!!

Visit Amanda's beautiful online store here www.littlechoopie.com.au

Little Choopies new home is now LIVE


I am so excited, Little Choopie's new home is now live for all to see !

I gave this little bird a makeover a couple of months ago, then designed him a new home.... a gorgeous backdrop for Amanda's gorgeous products. I have just loved working with Amanda.. such a delightful client, all the excited, heartfelt little emails she sent me during the process always made my day :-)

If you haven't already seen Amanda's products then you must take a look www.littlechoopie.com.au Little Choopie represents a stylish and affordable clothing and accessories label for your little fashionista, from funky t-shirts and bodysuits to delicious little bobbies and snap clips!

Sarah xx

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Business Helping Business




Check out this cute little fella...this is a logo and banner I designed for Aussie Product Review. I love to see business helping businesses, this is a great idea for all you work-at-home-mums wanting to get your products out there, check it out here www.aussieproductreview.com

Aussie Product Review are out to help Small Australian Business, no matter how small or how new you are, they will review your products. The review is then posted on the Aussie Review Website and Blog, and also promoted throughout the web.

I read on Twitter the other day Cheryl was thinking the little owl needed a name...did you come up with something Cheryl ?

Sarah xx

Monday, August 24, 2009




Another of my new lovely WAHM friends...Jen of Mini-Stylista...

What inspired you to start your mini-stylista blog and social network?


From a young age I was always inspired by fashion. I spent every cent I earned either buying fashion magazines or beautiful clothes. I always wanted to own my own boutique however never had the confidence to take a risk and set one up. When my son was born I had this urge to pursue my dreams however I found my focus had shifted from being obsessed with Adult fashion designers to kids clothes. I originally set up a website called My Style Australia which was going to be an online blogzine dedicated to Australian fashion.

But I just couldn’t stop thinking about how much Kids fashion is inspiring me! Then I saw the amazing kids blog Mini Gaga and felt the need to create a blog and post pretty pictures of all the Kids fashion I love. Therefore I set up the Mini-Stylista blog and had so many kind emails about how people loved the blog I decided to set up the Network too!

What did you want to be when you were a little girl ?

A fashion designer or buyer

What is your favourite colour ?

Pink

How many kids do you have ?

Just one little boy Rocco who is turning one in September (see pics of Rocco's Nursery above)

What is the best thing about being a work a home mum ?

With out a doubt spending more time with my son and working while he sleeps!

What advice do you have for other mums wanting to start a business from home ?

NETWORK! I have made so many amazing friends (such as you lovely Sarah!) through networking on Twitter or facebook and even my own social networking site Mini-Stylista!

How do you juggle the balance of working at home and being mum ?

I often try to only work on my sites when he is sleeping! My husband also helps cook dinners and clean as much as he can which is lovely and this allows me to work from 7 pm to midnight!

What do you do to relax / what is your idea of a relaxing day ?

I have learnt that when you become a mum there is no such thing as a sleep-in anymore!!! At the moment the Sites have been so busy I haven’t been able to relax and have been working 17 hour days! But to be honest I am a perfectionist and workaholic so this is heaven to me being so busy! However when I do have time my idea of a relaxing day would be what we sometimes do on Sundays: drive to our favourite patisserie and buy some delicious French pastries a coffee and lie in the park and read magazines (kids fashion ones naturally!!!)

CHECKOUT JEN'S STLYISH BLOG HERE; http://ministylista.onsugar.com/
AND THE FABULOUS SOCIAL NETWORKING SITE DEDICATED TO KIDS STYLE; http://www.ministylista.com.au/

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Sunny Mummy - A Warm Place To Be


Sunny Mummy is an exciting project I am working on at the moment, beginning with a blog but with so much more to come! My lips are sealed on the exciting things in store but let me just say that becoming a 'Sunny Mummy' will be on every mummies 'to do' list!

Sunny Mummy founder, Stacey believes most mummies these days know about the 'Yummy Mummy' status... she says to forget about trying to keep up with this external illusion and encourages us.... being a 'Sunny Mummy' is such a warmer place to be...

I am having so much fun being a part of the Sunny Mummy Journey! Stacey is so much fun to work, she is so bubbly and full of life (I love how excited she gets when she sees the designs hehe), so inspiring and is really putting everything she has into this new venture, and I for one, cannot wait to see it take off - because it will take off !! you just wait and see ;-)

Sarah xx

Wednesday, August 12, 2009



My intentions for this blog were not only to post my work, but my inspirations. As Ive mentioned before I have met some truely inspirational women since starting SMG, and have developed friendships with these women. We support and help each other in our our business and our personal lives, it may only be via typed word, a twitter or an email, but as I sit in my home office working away, these beautiful women are always right there with me, making me smile and laugh. Im so thankful for these new friends and want to share some of them with you...

Hayley - www.littlepinwheel.com.au

What inspired you to start your online business ?

It was when my husband and I decided we would have a baby I became very interested in all things little. I would go into shops and have a look at what you could buy for babies and I thought that it was all so cute and lovely. I actually wanted to open a bricks and mortar store before I was pregnant, but then decided that I would wait until I knew what it was like to be a mum. It took me 3 years to come up with what I wanted and to research what I thought other mums would want for their little ones. My children, Keely and Taj, are my inspiration behind Little Pinwheel and I am sure they will continue to inspire me.

How did you come up with the name 'Little Pinwheel' ?

I actually really loved the name Pinwheel first, although it was taken so my husband suggested to put ‘little’ in front as it is all about little people. Pinwheel comes from my view on children, I love the colours of a pinwheel and I love what a simple toy can do a child’s imagination. Their faces light up when they see the colours spin from the wind or from them blowing it around.

What did you want to be when you were a little girl ?

I actually really wanted to be a Park Ranger, I had a love of outdoors and animals. I did work experience as a Ranger and I really did think that I would be one. It is interesting how life changes often and your dreams can change. I admire those who follow through with their childhood dreams.

What is your favourite colour ?

Well, I wouldn’t say favourite, I would more say I am kind of obsessed with this colour…. RED. It is everywhere in my house, tastefully everywhere! If a simple thing like a toaster comes in red then I will have a red toaster! Then to balance the kitchen out the toaster is stainless. So I am obsessed, but quietly obsessed! I am yet to find a great pair of red shoes, I am still on the hunt.

What is the best thing about being a work at home mum ?

My husband and I decided before we had children that I would be a SAHM and I would be the one to raise our children. So for me the best thing about working from home is the fact I can still be the mum I want to be for my children. I also love the fact that my daughter, Keely, is so involved in Little Pinwheel, she role-plays shopping on the website. Keely packs orders for her customers, it is all very cute!

What advise do you have for other mums wanting to start a business from home ?

Firstly, if your heart is in it then go for it! The one thing that has really worked for me is to involve my children. Making them part of Little Pinwheel makes it fun to pack orders and it becomes more a game rather then time that mum cannot play other things with them. I am a person that believes if you have a dream then follow it, what is the worst thing that can happen?

How do you juggle the balance of working at home and being mum ?

Lots of working at night! I try to do a lot of my work on Wednesdays and Fridays when Keely goes to pre-school. Taj has two big sleeps and it is amazing what I can get done in that time. Keely does not have a day sleep anymore and as this is the case when it is her lunch time she has quiet time while mummy does a bit of work. She said to me a few weeks ago that she was lucky that I have Little Pinwheel so she can be at home with me all the time.

What do you do to relax / what is your idea of a relaxing day ?

Relax…can I laugh! Ok I guess my relaxing time is when I sit down and have a herbal tea. I am really into drinking tea and for me this is my time, even if it is for 5 or 10 minutes. Simple things can relax me, so a relaxing day to me is to take my little ones to the beach and build sandcastles. That to me is relaxing.

Tell us 3 of your favourite things in your shop right now ?

I have only just received Rittenhouse summer, which is for the fashion conscious mum. Being a fashion victim myself this is divine. I have ordered so much of it for my daughter and my son. It is all made in Australia and there is nothing like supporting Australian designers! My favourite items, so far, are all from the Rittenhouse range and they are, the Pony dress, the Paramount tee and for the little ones it would have to be the Lucia pilchers. There is so much more to come and I know if you ask me the same question in a couple of weeks it will change!

VISIT LITTLE PIN WHEEL NOW FOR 40% OFF WINTER CLOTHING.CHECKOUT THE NEW SUMMER ARRIVALS FROM RITTENHOUSE, POLKA, SUDO AND MILL & MIA.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

The Nursery


Here's a few pics of the nursery I am decorating for our baby boy, due in October. I haven't quite finished fiddling around yet but Ive been so excited I had to share the WIP with you. I still have to design a canvas artwork (of course!) to add a finishing touch to the room.

Cool things; Kate Finn Elephant. Maiike Handmade Toy. Stickytiki Elephant Wall Decals. Green and Chocolate Paper Lanterns from Details Details. Tiger Tribe Elephant Mobile from The Hip Infant. Dwell Studio Gio Aqua Cot Set from Design Child (I have just ordered this, the photo is from the Design Child Website). The bookcase and green floor rug are from the one and only... IKEA.

Sarah xx

PS please excuse the bad photo's from my crappy digital camera (Im not the best photographer either lol) I am hoping to purchase a digital SLR very soon so I can take nicer pics)

Monday, July 27, 2009

Kreativ Blogger Award




Style Me Gorgeous has been nominated for the Kreativ Blogger Award by the beautiful Hayley from Little Pinwheel! Thanks Hayley, right back at cha!.

This award is an award you would give to other blogs you think are inspiring, lovely and divine. The women behind the blogs I have nominated are all amazing and inspiring to me, I have met most of these women only since I started Style Me Gorgeous. Every day they make me smile through our little twitter / blog / work life interactions, having them a part of my world makes me feel even luckier to be a WAHM with my own business.

So here they are, make sure you check them out;


Hayley;
http://littlepinwheel.blogspot.com/

Lou;
http://triflenotebook.blogspot.com/

Jen;
http://ministylistas.onsugar.com/

Stacey;
http://sunnymummyaus.blogspot.com/

Amanda;
http://littlechoopie.blogspot.com/

Kate;
http://sambellinasparty.blogspot.com/

Amy (I dont know Amy, but her work is seriously gorgeous and she really inspires me)
http://amyatlas.blogspot.com/

When you are nominated you need to share the love and nominate seven more blogs you feel deserve this award and seven things people do not know about you.


Seven things about me.....

(1) I was born in England and moved to Australia with my Mum, Stepdad and Brother when I was 10. The best thing that ever happened to me (of course I didnt think so at the time).

(2) I am a chocaholic, no seriously, some people claim to be, but I really am, if I could eat it for breaky, lunch and dinner I would.

(3) My favourite colour is blue, always has been since I was a little girl

(4) I have one Brother, two Stepsisters and a half Sister

(5) I have the most beautiful group of close friends you could ever wish for and I thank my lucky stars for them everyday, you know who you are girls xoxo

(6) I don't do sport, thank god my son didnt get that gene, he loves to get out and play footy.

(7) I am a perfectionist

Nominee Rules: • Thank the person who nominated you for the award • Copy the logo and place it on your blog • Link to the person who nominated you for this award • List seven things about yourself that people might find interesting • Nominate and post links to the seven Kreativ Bloggers you nominate • Leave a comment on each of the blogs, letting them know they have been nominated.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

For The Ultimate Party




This was the fun I had on friday! creating a gorgeous new look for the lovely Simone and her business Complete Party Boxes.

Complete Party Boxes is the place to go for the ultimate party; meal boxes, bags, papers plates & cups, invites, favors and lots more. The divine new range of Sambellina has just arrived too, so make sure you check it out...just divine!

Now I'm off to have some fun making over the Complete Party Boxes website to compliment the beautiful new logo :-)

Sarah xx

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Funky Robot Art




Thought Id better even things out and post another boys collection, I don't like the boys to miss out (there's never a lack of girls products to choose from)

This is the robot collection, my son Jack has a couple of these in his room, they are so cool I love them. What do you think ?

Sarah xx

A Unique and Stylish Personalised Gift




Looking for a unique and stylish gift for a little one you know ?

The Style Me Gorgeous range of childrens canvas art make the perfect personalised gift for Baby Showers, Births, Christenings and Birthdays (coming soon!)

This is the beautiful set I created for my God-Daughter Ivy as her Christening gift. Ivy has a feature wall in her bedroom painted a fresh, pastel lime green. The artworks really brought the room to life with a splash of lolly pink to create contrast. (sorry I don't have an actual photo to show you, I am waiting till get a digital SLR so I can take some decent pics).

Sarah xx

Personalised Canvas Artworks - another sneek peak




I thought it was about time I gave you another sneek peak of my canvas art designs before my website launches.

This is cute little collection featuring the little SMG bird, I love these birds in the garden so much Ive used them in my advertising, blog banner and twitter background.

This customer chose to order a set of three from the same collection, each in 30 x 30cm size, and she put her daughter's first name on one, and middle name on another which I thought was a great idea.

Sarah xx

Saturday, July 4, 2009

A Little Sweetie turns One


I just wanted to share this delicious little invite that I designed for my beautiful God-Daughter Ivy's First Birthday. Ivy is going to look adorable in her little fairy wings; she is a petite little babe with curly blonde hair and big bright blue eyes just like the fairy on the invite :-)

Sarah xx

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Little Choopie gets a makeover !



You've gotta love a makeover?!

Amanda from Little Choopie asked me to give her logo a makeover to fit in with the new website she is getting designed and developed (stay tuned!). I had lots of fun sprucing up this lil bird!

I just had to show you some of the Little Choopie products, they are adorable! (see above).
Little Choopie is a petite home-based business situated in Melbourne, Australia.
Selling handmade t-shirts, onesies, and gorgeous accessories all 'made with love'. The perfect inexpensive gift; choose from bobbie pins, ponytail holders, headwraps, button earrings, button rings and necklaces. Amanda also takes custom orders! fantastic!

Nevermind the kids...Im seriously considering getting some hair accessories for myself!

Add Little Choopie to your faves list and keep an eye out for the new website...coming soon.

www.littlechoopie.com

Sarah xx

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Stylish Canvas Art for Modern Kids


While I'm on this Circus / Monkey / Train theme I thought you might like a sneek peek at some of my canvas artworks. This is one of my fave designs, that's why I had modified it and made a 'circus train' party theme for Jacks Birthday. I have the blue one with the two monkeys in a carriage in 30x30cm size hanging on Jack's bedroom door. I love it ! Let me know what you think ? and if you can't wait till I release the canvas art range on my website then feel free to email me at stylemegorgeous@bigpond.com

Sarah xx

Monday, June 22, 2009

another of my passions...




I just LOVE styling children's parties !! My sons birthday is in December, so these aren't exactly recent but I wanted to show you as this is another passion of mine.

Jacks first birthday was a 'fun in the sun' theme, we had a paddling pool and sandpit in the backyard, and I made up party boxes for the kids with a rake/shovel, a bath squirt and a couple of sweet treats.

Jacks second birthday was a 'circus train' theme. I had lots of fun with this one ! The train and animals are actually from one of my kids canvas artworks (stay tuned for news on Style Me Gorgeous - Childrens Canvas Artworks). I made co-ordinated party hats for the kids and a crown for Jack. I also made a co-ordinating birthday banner, napkin rings, and party bag tags. My creative (whiz in the kitchen) friend Ali made the cute lil monkey cupcakes for us! The cute pic of Jack with cake all over his face was perfect for the thankyou cards I sent out the following week!

ooh only 6 months till Jacks 3rd birthday party...I can start planning soon lol...YAY!

Sometime after my second child is born (once Im not so sleep deprived) I plan to launch the Childrens Stationery and Canvas Art side of Style Me Gorgeous; birthday invites, announcements, thankyou's and much more. Feel free to email me in the meantime if you are interested stylemegorgeous@bigpond.com

Sarah xx

Star Mums In Business



Stacey and Kelly of Mummy Went To Market are two mumpreneurs who wanted me to come up with a funky logo and website to represent themselves and their brilliant new fruit and veg business concept. I really enjoyed doing this logo, it was great working with these girls...so much energy and excitement happening ! I have to tell you all about MWTM, I have a feeling they will be HUGE !

Mummy Went to Market is a locally (Newcastle and Hunter Valley, NSW) owned business, operated by two mums, Stacey and Kelly, who know how hard it is to juggle the demands of life.
Fed up with the rising costs of feeding their families healthy food, not to mention finding the time to get to the supermarket with children in tow...they decided to head to the markets to see what they could buy. With a desire to make it easy for other families to get the essentials each week at an affordable price, they created a business that meets those needs.

Each week these two Mummies get up early, pull on their funky pink paisley gumboots and head off to the markets... selecting a variety of quality produce that has been delivered fresh to the markets that morning, they carefully pack each box by hand, and deliver it that same afternoon.

To all you Newcastle / Hunter Valley families...I have a MWTM box delivered every week, and highly recommend this fantastic service, anything that cuts down the time spent in the supermarket with a whinging 2 year old is FABULOUS ! The produce is yummy and fresh, and its exciting to get something different every week, it encourages you to add a bit of variety into your family meals rather than getting stuck making the same thing every week :-)

Visit the website www.mwtm.com.au for more information on franchising opportunities, gift boxes and fundraising !

SAVE TIME AND MONEY - try MWTM out today...and spread the word !

Congratulations girls !

Sarah xx

TRIFLE!

I thank Lou again for this wonderful opportunity to be a part of such an innovative and exciting project. Lou asked me to create a logo and website for her new baby...Trifle. The brief called for me to create a brand for Trifle that would be synonymous with style and design, along with a gorgeous (I can do gorgeous!) and whimsical website. I really enjoyed working on this project and of course Lou was a pleasure to work with, I can't wait for this one to launch !

Trifle, is an online shopping experience for the consumer like no other anywhere in the world. Customers can shop from a choice of over 50 hand picked designers – all in the one place. Better still customers can buy from different designers, from different parts of the world, in different currencies with one click.

Trifle is made up of over 50 designers from various sectors of the kids products industry. The store is made up of high end, well established designers, niche companies, handmade artists and one or two start up companies.

Subscribe to Trifle now for notification of the launch ! http://www.trifleshoppe.com/

In the meantime, visit http://triflenotebook.blogspot.com/ to check out the talent, and get a taste of whats to come!

mmmm trifle....

Sarah xx

Skout Trade Fair


The excitement all started when I joined Skout Trade Fair and met Lou (Louise Donnelly-Davey). Wow...what can I say about the lovely Lou...those of you who have had the pleasure in crossing paths with this creative, talented, kind and generous woman....will know how amazing she is. A mother, mentor, business consultant (the list goes on), Lou loves to help others in making their business's successful. Lou is an inspiration to me, and has given my business a start that I will never forget her for..Mwah xx

Lou is the founder of Skout Trade Fair, it is a fabulous social networking site, 'the place to be seen if you buy, sell, design, represent, write about or even photograph fabulous kids, baby & mummalicious products!'. Joining STF has been the best thing I have ever done for my career (aside from taking the leap to start Style Me Gorgeous!), STF is brimming with amazing women who are all keen to share, help and offer advice. Im feeling all warm and fuzzy talking about it !

All you style savvy consumers, visit Skout- Kids Product Directory http://www.kidsproductdirectory.com for fabulous finds

Visit the Skout Blog http://www.skout.co.nz for 'something yummy!...something stylish!'

Speaking of YUMMY...have you heard of Trifle....Layers Of Lovely....

a bit about me...



I have been working as a Graphic Designer for over 8 years now. After much encouragement from my husband, family and friends, I have taken the leap and started my own business based on my passion of designing for the baby/kids/mummies industries. I feel blessed to be doing something I love so much, and as I am quickly discovering, owning your own business and being able to help others create their dream business is so fulfilling.

I have a wonderful, supportive husband and a beautiful two and a half year old boy, Jack, we are expecting a new addition to our family in October (more inspiration is on its way!).

I am truly overwhelmed and excited about the amazing and inspirational women/mums that have entered my world in the past couple of months since starting SMG. You will hear more about a few of these ladies in following posts.

Sarah xx