Monday, February 16, 2009

The Wonderhole

Every once in a while I meet someone who completely understands what I do. (Why do I collect old linen button bags, why do I save every scrap of ribbon paper, who really needs 200 boxes of old chenille snails??) A couple of weeks ago, in walked Carol Parks, and she got it. She didn't question anything, she just got it. She piled up the counter high with all sorts of bits and pieces and then announced she was having a fabulous party. I asked her if I could come and she said yes. So, last week, I went to Carol's fabulous party which was held at her North Hollywood home. Her home is part artist studio and part museum - an eclectic mix of everything Carol loves - all in shades of cranberry, blossom and coral. I was happy to see some friends, Pam Garrison and Amy Hanna - and met many new ones. I had such a good time that Carol invited me back the following week, to her annual Valentine soiree - as long as I could make up 36 Valentines to hand out at the Valentine swap. I set to work making up my Valentines, and Sofia and I went back to Carol's home yesterday afternoon. This time the party was even more festive. The table was set with an amazing array of tea sandwiches, scones, macarons from New Orleans and of course, champagne! The house and garden were lit up and sparkling. I think Pam said it best when she said she felt like we had fallen down the Wonderhole from Alice in Wonderland. When we finally did leave, with our shoe box stuffed with Valentines, our ladybug balloon corsages and a couple of takeout boxes of food, Sofia got into the car and said "Wow". That's all - just wow - and that pretty much sums up Carol Parks. Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention - you too can visit Carol's home and studio - she offers 3 day craft workshops with some of the most talented artists around. Spend a few days with Carol and you will find yourself and your creative spirit - just in case you lose it once in a while - like I do.

12 comments:

Susan Elliott said...

Hi Kaari, it sounds like you and your daughter had a great time at that party.

I've been trying to reach you regarding my entry to the sewing stash contest. I've sent an email to the notions@frenchgeneral address. Sorry I don't have a direct email for you so I've been sending my correspondence there...

Rose Brier Studio said...

Isn't it wonderful to make a new friend? How terific for you! And thanks for sharing all the info about Carol Parks.
~Marilee

Gretchen C. said...

Wow!

Maija said...

Carol Parks is an amazing woman. And you met my sweet friend Gina??

Alison Gibbs said...

Hi Kaari, just popped over from Heather Bullard's blog. What a great time you have had at Carol's. Carol sounds fun!
Alison

Anonymous said...

I do hope one day to make it to your shop...I'll have to make sure it is the one day you are open.

vosgesparis said...

haha What a wonderful story Ain't it great if you just get invited to someones party ;) I totally understand the fact that sometimes people just don't understand and the the joy of finding a person who has the same feeling about certain collections or bits and pieces you bring into your house. I think your blog is very cute and inspiring and I am gonna put it in my list.
I will be back to read more ... cheers from Amsterdam

Anonymous said...

Kaari it was lovely to meet you at the Valentine's Salon at Carol's home. She definitely has a way of bringing people together in such a joyful way.

Gina

Judi said...

I love the picture of Amanda's shoes! Weren't they the greatest? Except maybe for Carol's heels. What a day! Great to see you.

It' an Evolution said...

Kaari
My partner in crime and I are dying to go on your getaway to France and wondered if you offered another trip during the year. Fourth of July is a busy time around here, we really really want to go but just had to ask if you were thinking of organizing another trip.
Thanks so much ...love your site
Janet and Peggy
It's an Evolution

paperbird said...

I can't wait to visit your shop when we travel to California. Such pretty things. I would love to attend a party like the one you described- how fun would that be? I have some of those snails and I am still wondering what I am going to do with them!

Kaylovesvintage said...

sounds wonderful, there are not many good party like this ....hope you go again