Sneak Peek at Elizabeth's Valentine's Feature

In addition to running my store, design business and painting, I also am a contributor to the national magazine, Romantic Homes. If you haven't read this magazine in a while, then I urge you to take another look! The magazine has undergone some wonderful changes over the past several months which includes more photography and interesting features on boutiques, artists, and homes.

I now have a column in Romantic Homes, called Ta Da! I will write it 3 or 4 times a year. This February issue is my debute column - dedicated to Valentines Day and love.

I describe a new tradition that I hope Americans adopts. I call it a Valentines Tree and instead of just a day of celebration, we have a Valentines Season. The tree will be filled with little scrolls of love notes that are written by family members and tied to the branches. How wonderful would it be to share our love and gratitude for two weeks instead of just one day? I explain how this tree is used in a family situation and also how it is wonderful in a grown-up, chocolate buffet party.

I styled and photographed the feature as well. You will have to buy the magazine to see the 10-page feature full of photos, ideas, and "how to's." I am fortunate that the editor gave me great freedom with my concept, the styling, writing and my photography. They are truly a wonderful team with whom to work.

You should be able to find the Romantic Homes at better grocery stores and if you don't, then you need to find the store manager and request that they carry it! Borders and Barnes and Noble carry it as well - however, I am frustrated that I usually find it buried on the top shelf, behind other shelter magazines, and only a few copies at that. It is a fabulous magazine, worthy of front row attention in my opinion.

And finally - yes, I know I am doing a little self-promotion here - but should you find the feature inspiring or interesting, feel free to write to the editor and let her know you would like to see more of my work. I very much enjoy this type of work and hope to do a lot more of in the future.

With the new year off to a running start, I think it is great that in America, we get to start the year with love, gratitude, kindness and yes, chocolate! We have an actual day dedicated to love! I say, "just a day???" Why not a season? The first two weeks of February is a great time to celebrate.

May your heart be filled with love, your eyes filled with beauty, and your soul filled with chocolate...there is no such thing as too much love, beauty or chocolate! :-)

from my house to your house,

Elizabeth

www.elizabethhouse.us