MAISON de BALLARD: votives

Friday, October 14, 2011

Just In @ R.H. Ballard

We've been busy little bees here at the shop & gallery. I get really excited with all the new products coming in every day. Here are a few of my favorite items now in the shop!

Pointing Finger Bone China Votive Holder

Stag Bone China Votive Holder


Large Demi John surrounded by Mercury Votive Holders and Boule Glass Candle Holders

New HOBO Bags & Wallets: a beautiful architectural element (window frame) hangs from our French Tray ceiling ceiling and onto a vintage 1930's kitchen table.

A lovely, pear-scented "From the Garden Soap" sits upon a one-of-a-kind, hand-hone Rappahannock Granite Soap dish created by a local stone mason here in Washington, Va.

Pam Older Designs: some stunning necklaces and earrings created by American jewelery designer Pam Older, blends well with new metallic clutches from HOBO.

Long time favorite Hostess Gift: Robin's Egg Soaps and Nest Dish

Our towering display of Le Jacquard Francais Tea Towels: This towel display really sets then tone for the shop - unique, colorful and inspiring! I found this enormous herb drying rack at a local business, The Copper Fox, located in Sperryville, VA. We refurbished it (it was rusted and had decayed bolts) so that it now easily revolves and holds 48 different styles of my cherished French towels.

My current favorite lamp find! A company located in North Carolina creates these unique lamps and tables by using truck and machine parts, old gates, discarded metal and other industrial materials. I am a big fan of industrial furnishings and I am always on the look-out for unusual designs that can be worked into traditional or modern settings.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Illuminating Candle Holders,
Mercury Glass and More

Candle light creates many moods and emotions: quietness, love, peace, romance. I love using candles when dining with my husband, family or friends, but I also use them to create a sense of repose when I walk in the door after a long day's work. I like taking a deep breath and slowing down once I enter my home. Lighting a candle really works. I highly recommend it.

I think my fascination with mercury glass candle holders came from following Rachel Ashwell. Her Shabby Chic style inspired me over the years and has guided me towards other designers to love and admire, like Brooke Giannetti and her delightful Patina Style. Each designer has a penchant for the worn and tattered, items aged to perfection, and in Rachel's case perhaps a little bling thrown in for good measure. The bling for me is the glow that illuminates from several silvery votives scattered about a table or mantle -- subtle, calming, and oh so pretty.

Here are some cool vintage-style candle holders we just received in the shop this week. Do any of these speak to you? I have always been a little candle-crazy and I love them all. The white bone china votives are modern and fun, and when lit cast an ethereal shimmer. I am especially drawn to the mercury glass-style pieces and look for unique designs every season to keep things fresh and exciting. My shop is filled with lots of sparkle right now.

Some of these lovelies can now be found on our website, but you can also call us toll free to purchase: 866-503-2334. We also offer French Dripless Candles from Point a la Ligne that work beautifully with our candle holders. Mais Oui!