Boutique Markets BLOG

Seasonal Friday...

2012-01-27T06:00:00.005+10:00

'somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue,

and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true.'

Lyman Frank Baum Quotes

Happy Australia Day x

2012-01-26T06:00:00.000+10:00

Happy Australia Day everyone!!

Taste

2012-01-25T06:05:00.007+10:00

Milanese Risotto

Ingredients

1L (4 cups) chicken stock
1/2 tsp saffron threads
20g butter
1 tbs olive oil
1 brown onion, halved, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, crushed
330g (1 1/2 cups) arborio rice
125ml (1/2 cup) dry white wine
20g (1/4 cup) finely grated parmesan
Salt & freshly ground black pepper
Shaved parmesan, to serve
Crusty bread, to serve

Method

Combine the stock and saffron in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring just to the boil. Reduce heat and hold at a gentle simmer.
Heat butter and oil in a heavy-based saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until soft and translucent. Add rice and stir for 1 minute or until grains appear slightly glassy. Add wine and cook, stirring constantly, until liquid is completely absorbed. Add a ladleful (about 125ml/1/2 cup) of simmering stock and stir until completely absorbed. Continue to add the stock, a ladleful at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful. Cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender yet firm to the bite and the risotto is creamy. Remove from heat. Stir in the grated parmesan. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Divide risotto among serving bowls. Sprinkle with shaved parmesan and serve with crusty bread.

Make

2012-01-24T05:55:00.006+10:00

Tin Can Lanterns

Wash out an empty tin can and remove the label. Fill the can with water and freeze overnight to give a solid working surface. Draw your design around the body of the can with an erasable pen. Lay the can on a towel and, following your design, punch holes into the can using a hammer and a small round-headed screwdriver. Punch a hole either side of the can near the rim for a wire handle.

Monday inspiration...

2012-01-23T06:09:00.003+10:00

Let me ask you something, what is not art? ~Author Unknown

Seasonal Friday...

2012-01-20T06:08:00.006+10:00

...the crickets are chirping, the watermelon's cool, the sun is hot...

enjoy a summery happy weekend!

Getting to know....

2012-01-19T06:00:00.010+10:00

Sydney fans...we LOVE the designs from "The Organic Mamas"...

make sure you stop by their stall market day, Saturday 10th March.

Taste

2012-01-18T06:08:00.010+10:00

We thought we'd share one of our all-time-favourite recipes for a summer salsa to jazz-up any BBQ!

Simply combine 1 bunch of corriander, 1/2 red onion, 1 avocado, 1 tomato and 1 mango...chop all ingredients finely and mix...perfection!

Make

2012-01-17T06:07:00.011+10:00

We're a little bit obsessed with paper wheels this week!

So easy to make and you can do endless colour combinations for any occasion...

pop over here to the Ruffled Blog for a tutorial.

Monday inspiration...

2012-01-16T06:00:00.017+10:00

We're back...

welcome to 2012 and what a year it's going to be!!

Boutique Markets is all set to launch in Canberra and Adelaide along with all the other cities,

so if you haven't already....check out the website for dates and locations.

We are loving this print from 'Twine and Teacups' and vow to make it our mantra for the year,

how 'bout you? any resolutions out there??

Are you our lucky winner?

2011-12-16T14:46:00.000+10:00

We sent out a newsletter to all Boutique Markets email newsletter subscribers yesterday with a very spesh promotion from our official partner HomeStyleFile.com.au - subscribe to their newsletter between 1pm AEST 15 December and 1pm AEST 16 December and go into the draw to win 1 of 3 AUD$50.00 gift vouchers to the online store of your choice.

Ange at HomeStyleFile has just drawn the three lucky winners via Random.org and they are :

1. Yoko Hoogedeure

2. Bernadette Madden

3. Salliann Powell

Wohoo! Well done, ladies!

Ange at HSF will be sending you an email with details shortly. If you didn't get lucky in this giveaway Like HomeStyleFile on Facebook and tune in at 8:30pm AEST tonight (16 Dec) for some fast and furious giveaways. Just what Santa ordered!

Speaking of Santa, the elves have been in and added some dates in the Boutique Markets calendar for next year - check them out here.

Seasonal Friday...

2011-12-16T06:07:00.008+10:00

From all of us here at Boutique Markets, we wish you the merriest of merry Christmas's and the happiest of happy New Years! Thanks for all your support this year and we can't wait to see you again in 2012 x

Note: bookings have now opened for retail space in 2012 - secure your space NOW!
Advertising and sponsorship for 2012 is now open. email admin@pulse-pr.com.au for our rate card.
Our office will be closed from 5pm Dec 16th and reopen Monday 16th Jan 2012.

Getting to know....

2011-12-15T06:05:00.011+10:00

Today we're sharing our love of 'Tickled Pink Cards'...

all handmade with dollops of love, a sweet, sassy attitude

and a wish that giving and receiving will result in the same totally 'tickled pink' feeling. x

Taste

2011-12-14T06:55:00.008+10:00

Just a bit of gingerbread house over-the-top-ness!!

Do you make a gingerbread house for Christmas?

...we'd love to hear your tips x

Make

2011-12-13T05:59:00.008+10:00

Some inspirational ideas to display your Christmas cards this year...

do you have any winning ideas that you think look stunning??

Market Day wrap up!

2011-12-12T06:09:00.017+10:00

Two fabulous fabulous markets over the weekend in Brisbane...

twinkling fairy lights and live music set the festive mood Friday night

and Sunday's extended market was simply a shoppers' delight!

THANK YOU one and all for an amazing year,

we can't wait to bring you more in 2012 xx

Seasonal Friday...

2011-12-09T06:01:00.010+10:00

Come one come all...it's the festive season and

finally the day of our gorgeous Twilight Boutique Market!

We have a huge range of goodies to tempt you,

so get your shopping shoes on and pop down to Portside this evening 5-9pm.

Then we do it all again Sunday from 8am -3pm xx

Getting to know....

2011-12-08T06:09:00.008+10:00

We just CAN'T wait to bring you two fabulous Christmas shopping events this weekend in Brisbane!

Friday evening 5 - 9pm and Sunday 8am - 3pm Portside Wharf.

We are loving the gorgeous homewares from 'Jitta Jack'...

make sure you pop by and see the goodies!!

Taste

2011-12-07T06:01:00.001+10:00

Chocolate Pudding

Ingredients

250ml full cream milk

125ml double cream

60g caster sugar

1 tbsp cornflour

35g cocoa powder

2 tbsp boiling water

2 egg yolks

1 tsp vanilla extract

60g dark chocolate, finely chopped

Method

Put the kettle on and warm the milk and cream together in a saucepan. Put the sugar and cornflour into another saucepan and sift in the cocoa. Add the boiling water and whisk to a paste. Whisk in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the warm milk and cream, then the vanilla. Scrape down the sides of the pan and put it on a low heat, cooking and whisking for about 3-4 mins until mixture is thickens to a mayonnaise-like consistency. Take off the heat and whisk in the finely chopped chocolate before pouring into 4 small cups or glasses, each with a capacity of about 150ml. Cover the tops of the glasses with gladwrap, letting it rest on the chocolate surface to stop a skin forming. Place int he fridge once they are cooler .

Market Day wrap up!

2011-12-06T06:03:00.011+10:00

Thank you Sydney for an amazing market on Sunday!

What a fantastic note to finish the year off with you...we are already excited about next year!!

Brisbane - we have 2 markets for you this weekend -

twilight on Friday and a special extended market Sunday...

Yipee!

Seasonal Friday...

2011-12-02T06:03:00.004+10:00

If you're in Sydney this Sunday - don't let our amazing Christmas shopping event pass you by!!

The Entertainment Quarter, Byron Kennedy Hall Moore Park 9am -1pm,

see you there!

Getting to know....

2011-12-01T06:06:00.015+10:00

We can hardly wait to bring you a bumper market on Sunday in Sydney!!

Make sure you pop by 'Space Candles' luxurious, local,

quality handmade candles...perfect Christmas gifts every time!

Taste

2011-11-30T06:02:00.017+10:00

Something to serve at your Christmas function!

Pistachio-Covered Cheese Log

Ingredients

250g cream cheese, room temperature
1 cup coarsely grated sharp cheddar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Coarse salt and ground pepper
1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios, coarsely chopped
Crackers, for serving

Method

In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, cheddar, Dijon, and Worcestershire until well combined; season with salt and pepper. Cover, and refrigerate until slightly firm, 1 to 2 hours.
Meanwhile, in a medium pan, toast pistachios over medium, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden, about 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate; let cool.
Transfer cheese mixture to a piece of waxed paper; using paper, shape into a 15cm long log. Cover with pistachios, pressing to adhere. Wrap log in a fresh piece of waxed paper; chill until firm, 1 to 2 hours (or up to 1 day). Serve with crackers.

Make

2011-11-29T05:58:00.012+10:00

Today we couldn't resist sharing this sweet idea from 'How about Orange'...

DIY tealight holders - pop over here for the how-to...

we can see a row of them in red and white for a chic Christmas centrepiece!

Monday inspiration...

2011-11-28T06:01:00.004+10:00

'If you surrender to the wind, you can ride it.'

Toni Morrison

Seasonal Friday...

2011-11-25T06:06:00.006+10:00

...no reason why...but we're LOVING a bit of Australiana today!

Happy weekend :)

Getting to know....

2011-11-24T06:08:00.005+10:00

Showcasing in Sydney on Dec 4th will be the beautiful wares from

'The Paper Tie Affair'...gorgeous artworks, stationary, gift wrapping,

cards and divine Christmas decorations...get in early to stock up!

Taste

2011-11-23T06:03:00.002+10:00

A little something for a merry Christmas gathering!

Mulled Wine

Ingredients

1 bottle red wine

60g brown sugar

1 cinnamon stick

grated nutmeg

1 orange, halved

1 dried bay leaf

Method

Put the wine in a saucepan with the orange, sugar, bayleaf and spices.

Heat gently until sugar has dissolved. Taste to see if you want the wine sweeter, then add more sugar if need be. Strain into heatproof glasses and serve at once!

Make

2011-11-22T06:01:00.007+10:00

We just couldn't resist sharing this idea from 'under the table and dreaming'....

just perfect for the silly season around the corner! Click here for the how-to.

Monday inspiration...

2011-11-21T06:08:00.007+10:00

'Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm,

but to add colour to my sunset sky.'

Rabindranath Tagore

Seasonal Friday...

2011-11-18T06:06:00.009+10:00

Happy weekend to you all...

today we're sharing some piccies from Hobart -

a gloriously beautiful part of the world and if you ever get a chance to visit,

make sure you see as much as you can!

We loved our time there bringing Boutique to Tasmania and can't wait to return next year!

Getting to know....

2011-11-17T11:56:00.001+10:00

A retailer close to our hearts is 'Twine and Teacups'...did you know they've introduced a brand new range for grown-ups as well...make sure you check them out - trading in Brisbane and Sydney markets!

Taste

2011-11-16T06:02:00.008+10:00

We think this recipe from Donna Hay is perfect for warm evenings entertaining...

Carrot and Parsnip Fritters with Marinated Feta

60g rice flour
½ cup (125ml) iced water
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 egg
½ teaspoon ground cumin
1½ cups grated carrot
1½ cups grated parsnip
¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves
sea salt and cracked pepper
¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
350g marinated goat's cheese
wild rocket (arugula) leaves, to serve

Place the rice flour, water, baking powder, egg, cumin, carrot, parsnip, parsley, salt and pepper in a large bowl and mix to combine. Heat the oil in a large frying pan. Place tablespoons of the carrot mixture in the pan, flatten slightly and cook, in batches, for 1–2 minutes each side or until golden. Serve warm topped with the goat’s cheese, rocket and pepper. Makes 35.

Make

2011-11-15T06:07:00.020+10:00

Now is the perfect time to think about entertaining outside in our lovely warm weather!

These gorgeous hanging flowers are made from colourful paper bags..you'll need 6 gusseted bags for each flower.

Fold bottom of a bag in on itself, as pictured. Cut above lower fold to remove bag's bottom.

Trim top to form a petal shape. Punch a hole about 1/2cm from bottom. Repeat with remaining bags. Apply double-sided tape to lower front edges of one bag. Place another bag on top; repeat to stack all bags. Draw a length of string through hole in stack; knot.

Pull top and bottom bags around to form flower.

Join ends with double-sided tape. Suspend flower from string.

Market Day wrap up!

2011-11-14T06:09:00.005+10:00

What an amazing day we had yesterday in both Brisbane and Perth!

Thanks to all for such great markets xx

Seasonal Friday...

2011-11-11T06:01:00.000+10:00

We're offering up a double delight this weekend from one side of the country to the other!

Boutique Markets will be in Brisbane and Perth this Sunday...

so if you're in either city, make sure you get started on some Christmas shopping...

you wont find better!

Getting to know....

2011-11-10T06:07:00.008+10:00

Showcasing in Perth this Sunday, 'Mek and Bud' make the most adorable earrings

...perfect just for you or as a lovely gift..pop by and say hello!

Taste

2011-11-09T06:02:00.008+10:00

Perfect to pair with the gourmet ice-cubes from yesterday...

Fruit Punch

2L (8 cups) fruit juice, chilled
1 1.25L bottle soda water, chilled
250g (1 punnet) strawberries, hulled, halved
2 kiwifruit, peeled, chopped
Ice cubes, to serve

Place juice and soda water in a large punch bowl or serving jug.

Stir in strawberries and kiwifruit. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the

fridge for 1 hour to allow the flavours to develop.

Make

2011-11-08T06:05:00.006+10:00

We love this entertaining idea!

Use these exotic ice cubes in a refreshing punch, Pimm's and lemonade or a mineral water.

Cut lemon, limes or oranges into thin slices and freeze in ice cubes for a burst of colour and flavour.

Add fruits - raspberries, redcurrants or strawberry slices to the ice cube tray. Tip: Add a little lemon or lime juice to the water for an extra zing!

Or for a decadent touch, add violet petals or tiny rosebuds (aim to use organic flowers or fresh from the garden to ensure harmful pesticides have not been used).

Market day wrap up!

2011-11-07T06:06:00.004+10:00

Thanks to everyone who made our glorious market day in Hobart such a success!

Seasonal Friday...

2011-11-04T06:01:00.006+10:00

Not long to go!!

We're super excited to see some more of the gorgeous Tasmania...

and all the market goodies to take home for christmas pressies!

See you Sunday

Getting to know....

2011-11-03T06:10:00.010+10:00

This Sunday we will be in gorgeous Hobart to bring you another fantastic Boutique Market, also combined with our sister market, Mathilda's Market!

One of the retailers showcasing with us is 'my mother mabel'

pop by for a look at their lovely things!!

Market day wrap up!

2011-11-02T06:06:00.008+10:00

Thank you Melbourne -

we enjoyed a fabulous market day with you all!

Seasonal Friday...

2011-10-28T05:57:00.002+10:00

...ahhhh beautiful Melbourne...

we can't wait to be back and to bring you an amazing Boutique Market

on Sunday at Malvern Town Hall 9am -1pm,

see you there!

Getting to know....

2011-10-27T05:52:00.008+10:00

Sunday can't come soon enough for our gorgeous market in Melbourne!

Make sure you have a look at 'Mandi's Kitchen' for some lovely gourmet hand-made puddings...

YUM!

Taste

2011-10-26T06:05:00.008+10:00

Blueberry Cake

Ingredients

Melted butter, to grease

150g butter, cubed

155g (3/4 cup) caster sugar

2 eggs

265g (13/4 cups) self-raising flour

1 x 200g carton fat-reduced strawberry yoghurt

1 x 150g punnet blueberries

Icing sugar, to dust

Method

Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush a square 19cm (base measurement) cake pan with melted butter to lightly grease. Line the base and sides with non-stick baking paper.
Use an electric beater to beat the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition until combined.
Stir in half the flour and yoghurt until just combined. Stir in the remaining flour and yoghurt until combined. Spoon into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Scatter the blueberries evenly over the top. Bake in preheated oven for 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Remove from oven and set aside in the pan for 10 minutes to cool slightly.
Carefully turn out onto a wire rack. Turn upright and set aside for a further 20 minutes or until cooled to room temperature. Dust with icing sugar and cut into slices to serve.

Make

2011-10-25T05:55:00.002+10:00

If you're like us, you have a few 'too-good-to-use' tea towels hanging around...

anyway, we've come across a great idea to display them...

simply buy a cheap blank canvas and staple gun the tea towel around it

making sure you hide all the hems behind the frame...

and voila...instant art!

Monday inspiration...

2011-10-24T06:04:00.004+10:00

'They can do without architecture who have no olives nor wines in the cellar.'

Henry David Thoreau

Seasonal Friday...

2011-10-21T06:09:00.007+10:00

I spy....did you see our lovely page in "Real Living"magazine...

we were thrilled to bits!

Getting to know...

2011-10-20T06:09:00.013+10:00

'Make Me Iconic' is a brand new company that is taking an entirely new tack on designer home wares and premium souvenirs, and they'll be showcasing at the Boutique Melbourne Market Sunday October 30th...I spy lots and lots of gorgeous things I neeeeeed to buy!!

Taste

2011-10-19T06:05:00.024+10:00

Little Mocha Kisses

175g SR flour

75g caster sugar

75g butter

2 tsp instant coffee granules

1 tsp hot water

1 egg

Heat oven to 180. Place butter, sugar and flour in food processor

and blend until the mix looks like breadcrumbs.

In a small bowl mix the coffee with the hot water and then add

egg and whisk together. Add this to the processor and process until

the dough comes together. Chill in fridge for 20 mins.

Dust work surface with icing sugar and roll out dough until 5mm thick,

then cut out 50-60 hearts using a 4cm heart shaped cutter.

Place hearts on baking trays and bake in oven for 10-15 mins.

Cool and then sandwich together with chocolate icing.

Chocolate Icing

Mix 50g soft butter, 100g icing sugar and 3 tsp cocoa powder until smooth.

Can store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Make

2011-10-18T06:03:00.011+10:00

Wallpaper a Filing Cabinet

Wallpaper offcuts or heavyweight wrapping paper;
Spray adhesive (from art supply stores);
Ruler or measuring tape;
Scissors;
Scalpel or stanley knife;
Soft, clean cloth

Remove the drawers and measure carefully – a tape measure is best to use for complicated areas. Cut paper to size, allowing for overlap to cover edges.

Spray the front of the drawers with adhesive. Apply some to the side edges. Place the cut paper on the prepared drawers and use a soft cloth to neatly smooth the paper, working from the centre out. Set aside to dry.

Cover the sides and top of the cabinet using the same method as above. For a neat finish, cover the top first, then the sides. Bring the top edges down the side a little then apply side panels and use the blade to trim excess.

It’s easier to cover the front if you have paper to spare. Spray the adhesive over the drawer frame and fix a sheet of paper over the entire area. Smooth as above. Let it dry a little, then use your blade to cut an ‘X’ into each drawer space. This will allow you to trim the paper neatly, leaving a small edge to fold and glue in place. When all elements have completely dried, put the drawers back in place.

Monday inspiration...

2011-10-17T06:00:00.006+10:00

'Even when opportunity knocks, a man still has to get up off his seat and open the door.'

Seasonal Friday...

2011-10-14T06:01:00.002+10:00

Have a gorgeous weekend everyone...

I for one are wishing for some sunny weather to get some overdue washing done...

what's on your agenda?

Getting to know....

2011-10-13T06:09:00.015+10:00

One of our lovely Melbourne retailers is 'adorning AL'

we can't decide which is our favourite thing to buy...lucky it's time to do some Christmas shopping

(and there's nothing wrong with a few things for us at the same time hey!?!)

Taste

2011-10-12T06:01:00.005+10:00

Vietnamese Sauteed Beef

60ml (1/4 cup) oyster sauce
1 tbs soy sauce
1 tbs fish sauce
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 tsp caster sugar
1 tsp sesame oil
800g beef fillet, cut into 2.5cm pieces
Olive oil spray
2 red onions, halved, cut into thin wedges
2 cups watercress sprigs
Lime dipping sauce
60ml (1/4 cup) lime juice
2 tbs caster sugar
1/2 small fresh red chilli, seeded, finely chopped

Combine sauces, garlic, sugar and sesame oil in a bowl. Season. Add beef. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
To make lime dipping sauce, combine lime juice, sugar and chilli in a small bowl. Season with salt and white pepper. Stir until sugar dissolves. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until required.
Heat a non-stick wok on high. Spray with oil. Drain beef, reserving marinade. Stir-fry onion for 3 minutes or until brown. Transfer to a plate. Spray wok with oil. Stir-fry one-third of beef for 2 minutes each side or until cooked to your liking. Transfer to plate. Repeat with oil and remaining beef, in 2 batches. Return onion and beef to wok. Add marinade and combine. Top with watercress. Serve with sauce and rice.

Make

2011-10-11T06:08:00.003+10:00

Today we've been totally inspired by Mel from Kimono Reincarnate

and this gorgeous display box made from a cutlery drawer from Ikea!

Pop over for the links and get crafting!

Market day wrap up!

2011-10-10T06:08:00.010+10:00

Our gorgeous Brisbane Pink Ribbon market was flushed with pink yesterday

all in aid of breast cancer research...

thanks to all our lovely retailers and customers alike

who supported this worthy cause - and for a great market under sunny skies!!

Seasonal Friday...

2011-10-07T06:01:00.007+10:00

We're loving all things pink this week as Sunday is our

special Pink Ribbon Boutique Market in Brisbane...

with over 50 handpicked retailers to shop with and some

scrumptious macarons to nibble on, make sure you get down to

Portside on Sunday to show your support!

Getting to know....

2011-10-06T06:01:00.015+10:00

We're gearing up for a bumper Brisbane market this Sunday!

One of our favourites is 'bella lido' for beautiful beach-inspired products...

perfect for sumer around the corner.

(and don't you love that the name means beautiful beach in Italian!)

Taste

2011-10-05T06:05:00.007+10:00

Baked Ricotta Cheesecake

Ingredients

500g ricotta cheese - smooth

500g cream cheese, cut into cubes

2 cups caster sugar

1/2 cup cornflour

125g melted butter

4 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

600g sour cream

Method

Preheat oven to 160 degrees. Brush a deep 25cm springform tin with extra melted butter. Place ricotta, cream cheese, sugar, flour,butter, eggs and vanilla in a food processor and process for 2 mins or until smooth. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and with a metal spoon fold in sour cream. Spoon into tin and bake for 1.5-2 hours or until set. Remove from oven and place on wire rack until completely cold and then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving . Serve with extra sour cream and fresh berries.

Make

2011-10-04T05:59:00.006+10:00

Pretty and practical, drawer liners keep clothes and kitchen utensils in good nick, and are simple to make and apply. The new domesticity, and a renewed sense that being thrifty and caring for your things does actually matter, means protective measures, such as lining your drawers, are back on the agenda.

Oilcloth is the material of choice in the kitchen. More durable than paper and much easier to clean, bold new designs and colours.

What you will need

Measuring tape;

Calculator (for working out total area needed and length of oil cloth required);

Oil cloth;

Paper;

Scissors;

Ruler;

Pencil;

Double-sided tape

How to line a drawer

To line your drawers with oilcloth, measure each drawer and work out the total area you need to cover.

Purchase an appropriate length of cloth and cut each piece to size. Consider making a pattern of the drawer base in scrap paper so you can trace out onto the back of the oil cloth (particularly if you have many drawers).

Securely fix each panel to the base of the drawer using a small length of doublesided sticky tape in each corner and one in the centre; the liners will stay in place but can be easily removed for wiping clean.

Monday inspiration...

2011-10-03T06:08:00.003+10:00

'A weed is but an unloved flower.'

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Seasonal Friday...

2011-09-30T06:00:00.003+10:00

For those of you in lovely Melbourne this weekend, don't miss the Royal Melbourne Show!

Getting to know....

2011-09-29T06:06:00.013+10:00

We are loving the creative beauty that is 'Ties and Whimsy'...

vintage treasures, uniqueness, bold patterns, delicate textures

and all designed and handmade in Brisbane...

if you are in town on October 9th for our special

Pink Ribbon market, pop by and have a look!!

Taste

2011-09-28T06:02:00.016+10:00

Baked Pene with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Ingredients

6 tablespoons butter, plus more for baking dishes
Coarse salt and ground pepper
500g penne
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, halved horizontally
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
4 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups whole milk
285g white mushrooms, trimmed and thinly sliced
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Method

Preheat oven to 200. Butter two shallow baking dishes. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta 3 minutes short of al dente; drain pasta, and return to pot.
In a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until opaque throughout, 3 to 5 minutes per side. Halve each piece lengthwise, then thinly slice crosswise.
In a Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter. Add flour and garlic; cook, whisking, 1 minute. While whisking, gradually add milk; bring to a simmer, whisking frequently. Add mushrooms and tomatoes; cook 1 minute. Off heat, gradually stir in cheddar and 1/2 cup Parmesan.
Add chicken and pasta to pot; season with salt and pepper. Divide pasta mixture between baking dishes; sprinkle each with cup Parmesan.
Bake, uncovered, until top is golden and bubbling, about 25 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

Make

2011-09-27T06:04:00.005+10:00

Get rid of the last dry bit of winter skin and make your own body scrub!

Simply combine 1 cup good quality body oil with 2 cups of Epsom or sea salts or organic cane sugar.

You can then add lemon zest for colour and fragrance..so easy you can make some up for gifts as well.

Monday inspiration...

2011-09-26T06:06:00.004+10:00

'I must have flowers, always and always.'

Claude Monet

Seasonal Friday...

2011-09-23T06:08:00.011+10:00

This weekend is your last chance to see the Santos City of Lights

spectacular light and laser display in Brisbane.

It really is worth seeing and a great excuse

to enjoy a balmy evening at Southbank!

Getting to know....

2011-09-22T06:07:00.007+10:00

We absolutely adore all the products from 'Marley and Lockyer',

if you're lucky enough to be in Hobart on November 6th, make sure you visit us and pop by this gorgeous stall for some lovely homewares and Christmas decorations - perfect gifts for those you love (and keep some for yourself too!!)

Taste

2011-09-21T06:02:00.016+10:00

Mashed Potato Gratin

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter, plus more for baking dish
1.4kg potatoes, peeled and chopped
Coarse salt
3 large egg yolks
1 1/4 cups milk
1 1/2 cups coarsely grated Gruyere, Jarlsberg, or other Swiss cheese

Method

Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Butter a shallow baking dish. In a large pot, cover potatoes with water by 2cm; add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a boil; reduce heat. Simmer until easily pierced with a paring knife, about 20 minutes. Drain. Wipe pan; return potatoes.
Add butter; mash with a potato masher until creamy. Cool slightly. Fold in egg yolks, milk, 1 1/4 cups cheese, and 2 teaspoons salt. Spread in prepared dish.
Top with remaining cheese. Bake until golden brown in spots, rotating dish halfway through, about 30 minutes.

Make

2011-09-20T06:00:00.008+10:00

Why not pull some things out of the kitchen and use them in an

interesting display on the coffee table for something different!?!

We've used a bamboo steamer as a little tray to

hold some pretty things...what else can you think of?

Monday inspiration...

2011-09-19T06:04:00.007+10:00

'Pink is the navy blue of India.' Diana Vreeland

Seasonal Friday...

2011-09-16T06:05:00.026+10:00

Looking for something to do this weekend?

If you're in Brisbane - one of the most influential modern photographers

is the star subject at the Qld Art Gallery. More than 250 images from Henri Cartier-Bresson, the Frenchman touted as the father of photojournalism, will be on display until November 27th 2011

' Photography is aligning the head, the eye and the heart along the same line of sight'.

Henri Cartier-Bresson

Getting to know....

2011-09-15T06:05:00.011+10:00

We are loving all the goodies over at Hevana -

lots of glorious fashion, homewares and special accessories!

Taste

2011-09-14T06:08:00.015+10:00

Tomato Tartlets

ready made puff pastry, thawed

2/3 cup packed cheddar cheese, grated

3 medium tomatos, sliced

4 tsp olive oil

salt and pepper

1/3 cup small basil leaves, for serving

Method

Heat oven to 200 degrees. With a biscuit cutter or cup, cut out 10 rounds and transfer to 2 lined baking trays. Using a fork, prick all over each round. Sprinkle 1 tbsp cheese on each, and top with a tomato slice. Brush with oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake until pastry is golden at edges, 25-30 mins. Cool in racks and to serve top with basil.

Make

2011-09-13T06:07:00.018+10:00

Bridal Shower

This bridal shower idea takes the theme of tea one step further than most.

Each guest is asked to bring an antique cup-and-saucer set as a gift; the result is a tabletop no bride could ever plan.

Invitations could be tea bags with handwritten, accordion-pleated messages enclosed in pink envelopes.

Japanese green-tea leaves nestled in small wooden boxes can make appropriate party favors.

Then wrapped in pale-pink vellum paper and ribbon.

Completing the very pink theme, garlands of delphiniums could be strung by hand on green embroidery thread, and hung across mirrors, doorways and window frames.

Monday inspiration...

2011-09-12T06:09:00.000+10:00

'think big thoughts but relish small pleasures.'

H. Jackson Brown Jr.

Seasonal Friday...

2011-09-09T06:01:00.009+10:00

Did you know the birth flower for September is the Aster???

It means 'star' from an ancient Greek word...I have never really taken much notice of them,

but if you google Aster - there are thousands of different-looking flowers...

and all of them stunningly beautiful.

Have a happy weekend xx

Getting to know....

2011-09-08T06:05:00.022+10:00

Treasures from Hobart....

a gorgeous broach from Marley and Lockyer,

sweet soap from Red Bamboo and

another broach and stunning coasters from Magoolie Designs!!!

Love love love

Taste

2011-09-07T06:06:00.016+10:00

After a delicious dessert that easy too?

Last week I made these yummy pears on puff pastry...but apples, peaches or apricots work just as well!

In a bowl combine 2 peeled and sliced pears. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla essence, a sprinkle of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of castor sugar and a dash of lemon juice. Line a baking tray with baking paper and using a saucer or small plate as a guide, cut 2 rounds of puff pastry out and place on the tray. Place the pears in a circle and brush with egg wash or melted butter, then bake in a 200 degree oven until the edges puff up and go slightly golden in colour.

Perfect served hot with icecream or at room temperature with some double cream and a cup of tea!

Make

2011-09-06T06:07:00.004+10:00

We simply adore this idea to use bowls and baskets in order to keep things neat and tidy...

use near the front door to pop keys, phones etc in and another on the floor for shoes,

toys and all those bits and bobs!

Monday inspiration...

2011-09-05T06:04:00.004+10:00

Let your hook always be cast;
in the pool where you least expect it,
there will be a fish.

Ovid

Seasonal Friday...

2011-09-02T06:08:00.004+10:00

"Sit quiety, doing nothing, spring comes, and the grass grows by itself."
Zen saying

Getting to know....

2011-09-01T06:02:00.008+10:00

If you were lucky enough to visit our Sydney market on the weekend,
you would have noticed one of our favourites...
'Blueberry Paper'. Gorgeous boutique stationary!

Taste

2011-08-31T06:08:00.009+10:00

Easy Chocolate Mousse

150g mini marshmallows
50g soft butter
250g good dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa solids), chopped into small pieces
60ml hot water from a recently boiled kettle
1 x 284ml tub double cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Put the marshmallows, butter, chocolate and water in a heavy-based saucepan.

Put the saucepan on the hob, over heat, though keep it fairly gentle, to melt the contents, stirring every now and again. Remove from the heat.

Meanwhile, whip the cream with the vanilla extract until thick, and then fold into the cooling chocolate mixture until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture.

Pour or scrape into 4 glasses or ramekins, about 175ml each in capacity, or 6 smaller (125ml) ones, and chill until you want to eat. The sooner the better!

Make

2011-08-30T06:07:00.006+10:00

Sewing Kit in a Bottle

With just a little retrofitting, an old-fashioned Mason jar can become a new sewing kit with a built-in pincushion on top. To begin, separate the lid's sealer and screw cap. Trace around sealer on cardboard. Using a compass, draw another circle on linen or cotton, 2.5cm larger in diameter than the first. Cut out both circles; make cushion by placing batting between fabric and cardboard. Turn screw cap upside down, and apply hot glue to inside edge of rim; quickly press cushion into lid until cloth protrudes smoothly above screw cap's opening and cardboard is flush against rim. Apply hot glue around edge of cardboard, fold over excess fabric, and press down. Glue top of sealer to cardboard. Fill jar.

Market day wrap up!

2011-08-29T05:52:00.011+10:00

WHAT a weekend!

Thanks to you all for such fabulous market days in both Sydney and Hobart...

I know my suitcase came home rather heavy with all my shopping :)

Seasonal Friday...

2011-08-26T06:08:00.011+10:00

We're flying south this weekend for the last bit of winter!!!

First up we'll be showcasing the talented and creative people of Sydney and then onto lovely Hobart to do more of the same...luckily we can take luggage to bring home all the treasures we'll be sure to come away with x

Love!

2011-08-25T06:00:00.008+10:00

We're THRILLED to bring you a jam-packed weekend of FABULOUS

shopping in both Hobart and Sydney!

If you're in town we'd love to see you and say hello x

Taste

2011-08-24T06:09:00.009+10:00

Apple Crumble
7 large green apples
1/4 cup caster sugar
1tsp cinnamon (ground)
1 cup plain flour
3/4 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
3/4 cup rolled oats
3/4 cup coconut
1 tbsp cinnamon (ground)
2 tsp nutmeg (ground)
2/3 cup butter (melted)
2 tsp vanilla essence

APPLE MIX

Peel and core apples, then cut into rough 1-2cm cubes. Place apples in large saucepan and cover with water. Simmer (but don't boil) covered with lid on med-high until apples are just tender but not too soft (usually 5mins once water is simmering). Drain apples well and place in large bowl

Combine caster sugar and cinnamon (ensures even spread), then toss through the apples. If you like the apples to be less sweet and more tart you can omit the sugar in this step, though there may be excess juice as a result.

CRUMBLE MIX

Combine flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, coconut, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large bowl until evenly mixed through.

Melt butter (do not burn or boil it) and add vanilla essence to butter, stir through.

Add butter mix to dry ingredients and mix well using a fork. Ensure all ingredients are moist and mixture has a crumbly texture.

BAKING

Place apple mix evenly in medium casserole dish. Spread crumble mix over top of apple. Bake at 180 degrees C for 30-40minutes, or until crumble topping is slightly browned.

10.

Serve with vanilla icecream, cream, or custard and ENJOY!

Make

2011-08-23T06:03:00.002+10:00

T Shirt Necklace

1. Lay the shirt on a flat surface; cut off the hem and discard. Then cut the body of the shirt horizontally into strips approximately 2cm long. (They will actually be loops.)

2. One at a time, pull the loops open and stretch until the fabric starts to curl ( you need to use a T shirt that is smooth without any ribbing for this to happen). Stack the loops on top of one another so that all the T-shirt side seams are in the same spot.

3. Once you have the thickness you desire, wrap the seams with a scrap piece of fabric (about 15cm long) from the same shirt. Tuck the end of the scrap under itself.

Monday inspiration...

2011-08-22T06:03:00.002+10:00

'Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.'

Andre Gide

Seasonal Friday...

2011-08-19T06:02:00.001+10:00

Feeling in the mood for a splash of red today ....

just because!!!!

Getting to know....

2011-08-18T06:01:00.001+10:00

Next time you get a chance, the beautiful art from

'Hearts and Minds Art' will take your breath away!

Hobart here we come!

2011-08-17T14:18:00.000+10:00

we are so excited to announce our Launch into Hobart on the 28th of August! The event will be extra special as we'll be showcase alongside our sister event Mathilda's Market. Some of the must see stalls include

Marley and Lockyer

Twine & Teacups

and Red Bamboo Handmade

We'd love to see you there! Or, if you are interested in retailing you can find out more by visiting our website, so pop over here

Taste

2011-08-17T06:01:00.002+10:00

Tomato and Goat's Cheese Tart

Using purchased puff pastry makes for quick preparation of this beautiful savory tart.

Spread the pastry with a mixture of sour cream and grainy mustard,

top with sauteed leeks and cherry tomatoes, and bake until golden brown.

Finally, scatter crumbled goat cheese and fresh thyme or basil over the top.

Make

2011-08-16T06:00:00.002+10:00

Silk Necklace

Dupioni silk in sherbet shades has a lovely luster.

When you tear the fabric into strips, it frays,

giving this braided necklace a soft, fringed look.

Rip dupioni silk into 2 1/2cm-wide strips; 1/2 metre makes 3 necklaces. Knot ends of 3 strips, and plait. When you get to the end, hand-stitch additional fabric strips onto the first 3 (stagger the new additions if possible to disguise the seams). Continue plaiting to the desired length (our necklaces are as long as 150cm), and knot. Knot ends together to make a loop.

Market day wrap up!

2011-08-15T06:00:00.001+10:00

WOW! What a weekend...another fantastic Boutique Market in Brisbane and then to add to the excitement, we were thrilled to launch in Perth!!!

Thank you to all for coming along and making the day such a bustling success on both sides of the country :)

Seasonal Friday...

2011-08-12T06:09:00.001+10:00

Market time is here again!

Not one but two cities this Sunday...Perth and Brisbane.

Woo hoo...can't wait!