Maison Rêve Inspiration Blog

Chapter Deux

2012-01-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

This posting gives me a chance to share more details about the next Chapter of Maison Rêve. As I mentioned in a recent newsletter, our mission has always been simple -- to inspire you to create a home you love to live in.

Not a house but a home. Filled with memories and treasures that reflects your unique personality. A place where you enjoy the simple moments of life. Casual dinner parties with friends where they stop over on a Friday afternoon with a bottle of wine and you have the baguette and cheese. Cooking with your kids so they grow up loving all kinds of cuisines and become little gourmet chefs. Reading a book (with real pages!) on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Stopping to savor lunch rather than eating at your desk. Living with vintage, organic, fair trade, and locally crafted products to stay in harmony with your environment and give back to communities.

This vision has always been a personal one. I learned this simpler lifestyle from my Suisse French mother as a child growing up in Montréal. So it has been a pleasure not only inspiring you with our products but also, hopefully, with a bit of this simpler lifestyle too. I am so grateful to each of you for being loyal to Maison Rêve these past 9 years. It has enabled us to significantly grow and expand each year - ending with our best holiday season ever.

So with a New Year brings new change. This change has been evolving in me for more than a year now. I am a big believer in listening to our whispers. My whisper has been telling me to grow my own creativity and impact with Maison Rêve. I have learned personally the challenge of “doing it all at the same time” while still trying to enjoy the simple joyful moments of life. Really tough. So to enable true authenticity into my life, I want to announce some personal growth of my own with what might be called the next chapter for Maison Rêve. It involves closing the store on January 31st -- with many exciting new things to come in Chapter Two.

The next year will be a real experiment of authentically living the Maison Rêve lifestyle. I will be growing our own garden. Taking cooking classes and teaching those tips to my two young children (Finnegan 5 and Delphine 2.5). I will also be looking to share these experiences with you. Online. Writing for a magazine. Creating a lifestyle book. And so much more. Should you want to join in and live this simpler lifestyle with me, we’ll be sharing these experiences and tips on this blog for the sheer pleasure of inspiring one another.

And don't worry about products. We will have plenty of our signature vintage and organic products on www.maisonreve.com to purchase. Remember we ship everywhere! For our local San Francisco Bay area customers, we will be hosting Maison Rêve Living events that combine our popular workshops and flea market finds at inspiring locations each season. My husband and I recently restored our 1893 Victorian home in Old Town Sausalito and that will be one of the venues for our Maison Rêve Living weekend events. Imagine experiencing urban farmhouse workshops throughout the property – organic gardening, simple French cooking, urban farmhouse decorating, feng shui, life coaching and more taught by local experts all while buying one-of-a-kind French flea market items right off the walls. Then maybe another event will be at a restored barn in Point Reyes. Who knows!

If you want to keep up with these events, sign our guest book at the store this month or online at www.maisonreve.com.

If you want to benefit from our Moving On Sale come by the store soon or shop online. Everything is 30% off! Includes: Vintage Flea Market Finds. Sofas and Rugs. Lovely Throws and Pillows. Libeco and Coyuchi Bed Sheets. Coyuchi Organic Towels. Hunter Boots. Locally Hand-made Jewelry. Reclaimed Barn Wood Shelving. Store Fixtures and MUCH more! Sale starts January 3rd at 10 am.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to email me.

Thank you very much for your support. It has given me the courage to take my dream to the next level.

Yasmine
Inspirer and Founder
Maison Rêve

because some people dream in french

108 Throckmorton Avenue

Mill Valley, CA 94941

415.383.9700

www.maisonreve.com

Flea Market this Saturday, November 5 at 8AM

2011-11-03T09:59:00.000-07:00

Text your friends. Call your neighbors. The truck of goodies have arrived. It's time for our once-a-season Maison Reve Flea Market. This Saturday, November 5, 8am to 5pm in the back garden of our store.

Come early. There is usually a line outside our front door at 8am! And this market has a twist. We will have racks of women's clothes, shoes, purses, and accessories donated by the fashionista Moms of Sausalito Nursery School (where our owner Yasmine's children attend). All these items are just $5 dollars each with the money going directly to support the school. So get ready to shop until you drop. See you at the Flea!

Wednesday's One-of-a-Kind Deal

2011-04-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday we post one of my team's favorite vintage items at a ridiculously low price. This Wednesday's one-of-a-kind deal is is our green vintage sun umbrella.

Above: Classic hunter green with wide white stripe, wood handle, 80 inch diameter. These umbrellas are rare finds and collector items. Perfect for summer fun. Retail price $260, Wednesday's deal of the day $160!

Only one available. Sold to the first person that emails shop@maisonreve.com wanting to purchase. Remember we ship. Happy Wednesday!

Wednesday's Won-of-a-Kind

2011-03-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Every week we will feature a one-of-a-kind vintage item exclusively on our blog that you can purchase for a ridiculously low price. How fun! There is only ONE of the featured item so the FIRST person to email wanting to purchase wins.

Above: This Wednesday's Won-of-a-Kind treasure -- our Industrial Rolling Shipyard Trolley Cart. An original vintage item with breathtaking character. Imagine as your new coffee table. Or in the garden holding pots of fresh herbs. Even in your kids playroom as a fun art table.

Above: Original detailing. Weathered wood plank top. Industrial rolling wheels. Measures 45 by 30 inches.

THE DEAL: Original price $850. Wednesday's deal $300!

To purchase, email shop@maisonreve.com with "Wednesday Won-of-a-Kind Winner" in subject line. Include your preferred means of contact. We will respond immediately answering any questions. Remember we ship across the country and can provide a quote before purchase.

Will you be this Wednesdays Won-of-a-Kind Winner?

Behind the Scenes at our French Flea Market

2011-03-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

With so many vintage objects to prepare, there is a lot of cleaning, pricing and decorating involved in hosting this once-a-season event. But its our team's favorite thing to do. Here Tracey and Nikki compare a vintage potato rice masher to its modern counterpart. Yes, we are obsessed with all things vintage!

Our handyman, Acsel, and his guys built a magical see through tented structure to keep the rain out. It poured during the flea but shoppers stayed warm and dry.

Our biggest line ever extended past our store waiting for doors to open at 8am.

This season's market was filled with lots of entertaining treasures to inspire Spring dinner parties. Fondue pots. Cafe late bowls. Ceramic pitchers. Cupcake tins. French white plates were huge hits.

Serious shoppers turned every object over to find the perfect treasures.

Nikki has fallen in love with our new Blackbird Bakery Gluten-Free cookbook. She baked yummy brownies for our customers. Thank you Chef Nikki!

Katie Kennedy was our first person in line and won this Milk Bottle Flower Vase from Holland. "It was such a lovely surprise. I came with my Mom, Eileen Kennedy, because she loves this store. And this gift is serendipitous because I move into my new apartment today. It will look fabulous filled with Spring flowers or fresh herbs on a small table in my new kitchen!"

Our next French Flea Market is in 3 months. Date and time will be announced on our blog.

Flea Market this Saturday Rain or Shine

2011-03-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

Time to text your girlfriends. Call the husband to watch the kids (or bring them along!). The truck has been unloaded for our once-a-season Maison Reve Flea Market this Saturday. Rain or shine - its on! Wait until you see what we have planned if it does rain. A magical candlelit experience under tarps. My team is busy as a bee pricing and shining all our treasures for your hunting indulgence. I just have to stop myself from sneaking a few home every day. I left yesterday with this fabulous onion chopper that had the most adorable Maison Reve orange push top on it - how can a girl resist?! So 1) COME EARLY 2) wear your Hunter wellie boots (or buy some at our store), and 3) bring a friend as its the perfect escape to start the weekend. See you this Saturday, March 19, 8am - 5pm.

Sneak a Peak into our Flea this Saturday

2011-03-14T23:33:00.000-07:00

One of my memorable moments travelling with my husband through Provence is eating at a farmhouse restaurant we stumble onto off a windy French road. It's not just for the predictably delicious coq au vin or smattering of oh-so-fattening cheese plates. Mais non. It's for the architectural inspiration found in their secret dining patios. Every place never fails to deliver its inspiration. An old french baby crib with a cluster of pots overflowing with fresh herbs. A grand entry chateaux gate leaning against a wall with overgrown seedlings hugging its retired posts. I always leave inspired.

As we start sowing our seeds for Spring, now is the best time to bring a piece of Europe into our homes and gardens. For our beloved blog followers, you get a sneak preview into our Flea Market before the doors open this Saturday at 8am. And receive an additional 10% off the already ridiculously slashed sale prices on any of these four previewed items below! The catch - you must purchase them this Thursday or Friday ONLY. So if you can't make it to our Flea Market or don't want to wait in line at 8am, you just got the coveted early bird ticket.

A gorgeous gate from an inn in Tuscany, originally $950, sale $385.

A fabulous French baby crib, originally $950, sale $350 and a pair of fleur de lys urns, originally $550, sale $365 each.

An entry gate from a French chateaux in Avignon, originally $1200, sale $450. Imagine in a garden with tomatoes growing up it, or as a headboard or just leaning against a wall in your home as architectural art.

See more photos, prices and dimensions of these 4 previewed items online www.maisonreve.com/shop Garden and Baby sections. Then email shop@maisonreve.com or call 415.383.9700 to purchase. Mention "10% sneak peak" when purchasing. Remember there is only one of each item and must be purchased this Thursday or Friday to receive the additional discount.

Favorite Find of the Week

2011-03-07T17:24:00.000-08:00

One of the girls on my team, Nikki, says her favorite day is when we unload our truck full of vintage treasures after a hunting binge. She loves to see the hidden gems spill out. As fate would have it, we both unquestionably fall in love with many, helping one another resist the urge to take them all home. But there is always that one stand out piece that captivates my heart. This week's Favorite Find is our Industrial Rolling Drawer Cabinet.

Stripped down to the original galvanized finish. Fabulous variety of drawer sizes.

Reclaimed wood plank top was added making it the perfect Urban Farmhouse cabinet.

Imagine it in your office as stylish storage, living room with a TV on top, or kitchen as an rolling bar (did I mention it has to die for large caster wheels). I think its brilliant in a mudroom to stash away the smattering of hats, mittens and dog leashes.

It's vintage so only one of its kind. If your heart is going pitter patter give us a ring 415.383.9700. shop@maisonreve.com Measures 48.5 x 24.5 x 44. $1,620. See more treasures in our online shop at www.maisonreve.com

You're Invited this Saturday for Santa, Snow Cones and Snowflakes

2010-12-09T23:50:00.000-08:00

Where are we going to park the reindeer? Santa Claus just R.S.V.P.'d and he's coming to the store this Saturday 11am to 2pm! To celebrate, we’ve decorated the entire store with hundreds of white snowflakes made by local school kids (who wrote what they love most about December on the front).

We’re also going to have a private visit by Skylite Snowballs - a snow cone truck that dishes out Chez Panisse-inspired organic snow cones. The first 50 are free from Maison Rêve, so get here early.

To help you with stress-free shopping, we’ve created a super fun Holiday ‘Kids Only’ tent packed with games and distractions. And of course there will be hot cocoa while you wait for your chance to chat with the jolly, round, red chap. So spread the word and come share in the merry. Santa Claus is coming to town!

This Saturday, December 11 from 11am to 2pm.

Hunter Boots Are Here!

2010-11-30T15:21:00.000-08:00

The wait is officially over! Our beloved Hunter Wellie boots have arrived -- just in time for the holidays. We love our Wellies so much because they are not only practical, but they are timeless, and of course, Urban Farmhouse chic and fashionable.

We have a rainbow assortment of colors and styles to choose from -- ladies, gents and children's sizes are in the store now. Find the perfect color to suit your personality. And don't forget to add a pair of warm wellie socks to keep your toes nice and toasty. Our Wellie boots are flying out the door, so hurry on in.

My Mom's Famous Thanksgiving Stuffing

2010-11-24T15:18:00.000-08:00

No matter how hard I try to plan my Thanksgiving menu, I know the star of the meal will be my Mom's Famous Thanksgiving stuffing. As a child, my brother and I duked it out on many occasions for the last delicious spoonful. And who could blame us -- her stuffing is pure magic.

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving -- filled with inspiration, loved ones and family traditions.

Francette's Famous Thanksgiving Stuffing

Ingredients

Cooked kidney and giblets from turkey, diced small

1 medium onion, diced small

3 garlic cloves, chopped
3/4 Granny Smith apple, diced small
3-4 slices of cooked bacon, diced small
2 medium potatoes, peeled, precooked and diced small
salt and pepper
2 cooked carrots, diced small
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
2 tablespoons white wine
1 tablespoon of flour
1/2 - 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
2 x 2 inch block Gruyere cheese, shredded
1 tablespoon of honey
Chopped parsley

Method
In a large pan, saute onions with butter until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add cooked kidney and giblets, bacon and apples. Salt and pepper to taste. Next, add cooked carrots, potatoes and yogurt. Stir and cook until well mixed. Meanwhile, mix white wine with flour in a small bowl. Add to pan and stir. Add breadcrumbs, gruyere and honey. Sprinkle with parsley. Place stuffing in turkey and place turkey in oven to finish cooking.

Boots, Raincoats and Friends

2010-11-22T15:27:00.000-08:00

What an epic day of fleaing it was! Despite the unseasonal storm that swept into Northern California, a line of dedicated Urban Farmhouse hunters (and huntresses) formed before the doors opened at our final Brocante of the season -- ready and armed with hunting prowess.

Even without the aid of Mother Nature, we witnessed our biggest turnout ever!

Our amazing team of Inspirers set up shelter from the pouring rains, with glowing votive candles -- looking so pretty and welcoming, as they happily sat in our favorite vintage Mason jars.

The treasures were endless: from large antique French preserve jars, silver plated serving dishes, linen nightgowns, vintage rolling pins and photo albums....

To chicken cages and original cider bottles from Paris -- there was something special waiting for everyone. Gifts for The Chef, The Entertainer, The Teacher, The Crafter, The Traveller, The Gardener, The Seedling, and of course, Fido too.

And speaking of chicken cages, Anie and her daughter from Sweet Bug Farm, walked away with a perfect new home for the chickens on their farm.

Thank you so much for spending the day fleaing with me. It was a day full of rummaging, laughing and dancing. It was a day full of Boots, Raincoats and Friends. Hope to see you, bright and early, rain or shine, at our next French Flea Market in February of 2011!

French Flea Market This Saturday

2010-11-18T17:06:00.000-08:00

Don't miss our last, highly anticipated, French Flea Market of the season! Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures just in time for holiday gift-giving and entertaining.

Come early for the best finds -- 8am to 5pm! Rain or shine!

We'll have freshly baked pain au chocolat and treasures waiting for you. À bientôt!

Urban Farmhouse Thanksgiving Table

2010-11-16T15:38:00.000-08:00

With the big day right around the corner, take a peek at our favorite Urban Farmhouse Thanksgiving table.

An oversized, French inspired vintage chalkboard, adorned with the evening's special menu, greets your guests as they enter the dining room.

A long, weathered farmhouse style table is perfect for gathering and entertaining. The vintage benches are reclaimed original ballot boxes from the early 1900's. Treat each guest to their own limited edition Urban Farmhouse paper mache egg, designed to be cracked open to unveil a hidden surprise.

Handcrafted Alex Marshall white cermamics add simplicity and elegance, especially when paired with Belgian Libeco linens in our favorite flax color.

Leave your Hunter boots at the door and prepare to share in the bounty of the harvest with your loved ones. Come by the store and let us help you pull together your very own Urban Farmhouse Thanksgiving!

Award Winning October Window

2010-11-07T20:51:00.000-08:00

Take a look at the window that won first prize in the Mill Valley Film Festival window dressing competition! My team and I had so much fun creating it.

The idea was to imagine yourself watching an old French film in a barn in Provence.

We hung vintage film reels from the rafters to create drama and whimsy. $8-25 each

Vintage bistro chairs from Paris evoked theatre seating. $110 each

Collector edition Poppe bottles lined an old farm bench bringing back memories at the old soda shop.

Theatre stage lights were restored and illuminated the barn runway. We still have some left and they make perfect lighting by a sofa or bed. $950 each, 4 available

Wonderful antique cameras captured the moment. $85 each, 2 available

We found film reels at the flea market with fabulous movies that did the final trick to bring the window to life. $145, 1 available

As they say at The End of every French film -- Fin. So we hung these salvaged metal letters front and center of the show. And great news -- the Film Festival votes on the most inspiring store window in town. There was some steep competition especially with Chef Tyler Florence's wonderful Film Festival window. But luck of the draw, Maison Reve won Grand Prize!

Many items from this window are available for purchase. Call or email us for pricing, photos and sizes: 415.383.9700 shop@maisonreve.com. We ship across the country.

Now, sit tight to see what we just created for our November Autumn window. I will post it later this week. It inspired me to start planning my Thankgiving dinner. Yasmine

French Flea Market this Saturday

2010-08-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

You're invited to our French Flea Market this Saturday, August 21, 8am to 5pm.

It's in the back jardin of our store and held once a season.

We found fabulous treasures for you to rummage through. From street signs, French enamel lamps, birdcages, leather bags, porcelain pitchers, fondue sets, Paris juice cups, artwork, vintage crafting items and much more bric-à-brac.

Come early for best picks. Line forms at 8am.

Spread the word, grab your café and come Flea with Me at the Maison Rêve French Flea Market!

Welcome Reyes!

2010-08-16T12:09:00.001-07:00

One of our team Inspirers, just had her first baby! Ashley who manages http://www.maisonreve.com/ and takes all the beautiful photos you see in our online Shop just gave birth to Timothy Reyes.

Born August 3, weighing 5 lbs 12 oz, and stretching 20 inches, this little treasure will go by Reyes after Point Reyes, a favorite local getaway spot for Ashley and her husband Mike.

Join us in welcoming little Reyes into this wonderful world! Stay tuned for a sneak peak into Reyes nursery room. Ashley used vintage and organic items that will surely inspire you.

A Love Affair with Paint

2010-04-28T12:31:00.000-07:00

Introducing our new paint collection -- The Maison Rêve 38 Colours by Farrow & Ball.

Paint is an easy way to refresh any room or worn furniture piece. Farrow & Ball paint is renowned for the ultimate in depth of colour and elegant finish.

Based in London, Farrow & Ball is the only manufacturer which makes all of the paint and wallpaper sold under its name. Their environmentally friendly paint is made with traditional methods using original formulations. They've never wavered from using only the finest raw materials rather than incorporating plastic “filler” like most others in the industry, resulting in 30% more pigment. We also like that they choose not to use less accurate in-store tinting machines, but instead make and check every batch themselves.

While we carry the entire Farrow & Ball palette of 132 colors in 13 finishes, we know its tough picking paint. So we’ve done the work for you. Select from our 38 favorites in The Maison Rêve Colours by Farrow & Ball. Sold in-store and soon online at http://www.maisonreve.com/. Come fall in love with paint!

Behind the Scenes - Creating a Birch Tree

2010-04-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

My team loves creating inspiring store windows for our customers. April was about celebrating Earth Day with an 11 foot birch tree. The white simplicity of these trees is very Maison Rêve.

To create a tree trunk, our inspiration started with a trip to the San Francisco Flower Market.

We found two urns with bended tree branches.

And a cluster of birch branches.

All tall enough, just not right. Keep hunting.

Then some larger birch branch logs. They could work if nailed together to make the trunk.

Until we discovered these hollow birch wraps. They come from fallen birch trees that rot in the middle, leaving these discarded exterior shells. A perfect way to recycle natural beauty! Stacking the right sizes inside another made our 11 foot trunk. The hunt was over.

Back at the Maison Rêve workshop it was time to start painting leaves in our new 38 Maison Rêve Colours by Farrow & Ball. We found pictures of birch leaves online that became our visual cutting guide.

Lauren hand-painted each leaf.

380 leaves - a lot of painting!

We then suspended the trunk with fishing line from the ceiling and made a grid of line above it to suspend the leaves. Voila!

Customers have really enjoyed the tree. We are now selling it with part proceeds going to support the environment. If interested email info@maisonreve.com. Great in a child's room as their "giving" tree.

The birch wraps are now a new product at the store. They are great for covering glass vases that hold flowers on a table. Or to wrap a pail of umbrellas, $38 each.

Stay tuned for our behind-the-scenes May window honoring Mother's Day with vintage treasures.

Easter Basket Workshop this Saturday

2010-03-24T12:36:00.000-07:00

Join us for our annual Easter Basket making workshop! It’s an adult only workshop - we will be creating the pretty embellishments to make a unique Urban Farmhouse basket for your little chicks. Learn the inspring history behind Easter baskets, how to incorporate hand-made decorations and vintage treasures that create traditions your kiddos will share with their own children one day. Create 3 vintage inspired crafts (e.g. spring pinwheels, egg ornaments….) for your baskets that can also be used after Easter as pretty decorations for your kids room. Bring a basket to add your decorations to (or purchase one at the workshop). Space is limited. Reserve your spot now.

Saturday, March 27, 10am - 11:30am $15 workshop fee includes all embellishment materials.
RSVP to shop@maisonreve.com, 415.383.9700
Maison Reve 108 Throckmorton, Mill Valley, CA 94941

Recycled Green Glass Storage Jars in Better Homes & Gardens

2010-03-02T21:36:00.000-08:00

Our recycled glass storage jars with metal tops are featured in the March issue of Better Homes & Gardens magazine (page 62).

Available in 4 sizes -- small with blue metal lid 9.25" H x 6.5" Dia, medium with green metal lid 11.25" H x 8" Dia, large with yellow metal lid 12.5" H x 9" Dia, xlarge with red metal lid 13.75" H x 10.5" Dia

Perfect for collecting and clustering objects such as fruit, tea bags, dog biscuits or flour in the kitchen. Or more unusual items such as wooden paper clips in the office. Cotton balls in the bathroom. Baseballs in a child's bedroom.

Email shop@maisonreve.com or 415.383.9700 to order. We ship across the United States, Hawaii and Canada.

As seen on Martha Stewart!

2010-01-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

Our recycled Levis denim aprons may be on Martha's show today! Hand-crafted by a local Mill Valley CA textile designer, Molly de Vries, these aprons are inspired by our favorite Julia Child. She loved the demi apron just like us. Today our friends at remodelista.com will on The Martha Stewart Show and plan to give Martha one of our lovely aprons! We love Martha and get so many creative ideas from her team daily, so this is quite a thrill.

Our Julia aprons come in two sizes: full (with bib fronts) $88 and demi (waist down like Julie loved) $68. The demi styles are available in two lengths - long (shown above) $68 and short (below) $48.

All styles available in navy blue, white or orange stitching. Our favorite is the organge stitch --inspired by our Maison Reve orange logo. We originally made them for our in-store team to wear until customers kept asking to buy them!

Call or email to get your own Julie inspired recycled denim apron 415.383.9700, shop@maisonreve.com. We ship across the country. Fingers crossed we make Martha....

An Urban Farmhouse Wedding

2010-01-14T23:41:00.000-08:00

We love weddings at Maison Reve! Our owner Yasmine and now husband David's wedding on a foggy cliff in Mendocino, California was signature Urban Farmhouse style. From the sea glass bottle with their wedding vows that David threw out to sea. To orchard ladders to form the arbor where they spoke thier vows. To french baguette trays with votive candles lined down tables.

Bowls filled with sea glass chips. Vintage champagne buckets and weathered pitchers for fresh cut blooms.

To their favorite gift from a flea marketer friend in London -- large D & Y antique letters that now inspires them everyday over thier mantle headboard. If you are getting married, call us! Our expert wedding Inspirer, Ashley, will help if you want to rent our vintage treasures for your wedding or create the perfect wedding registry. 415.383.9700

Warm Sunday Soup

2010-01-14T23:07:00.000-08:00

Want a great farmhouse soup this weekend? Try this delicious vegetable soup with pistou. Lovely for the whole family or your next casual dinner party.

Soupe Au Pistou
2 quarts boiling water
1 fresh bouquet garni: parsley, thyme, celery and bay leaf, tied together
8 oz pumpkin, marrow, squash, or sweet potato, seeded, peeled, and cubed
6 ½ oz fresh coco beans or equivalent
2 carrots, sliced
2 onions, sliced
6 ½ oz small potatoes, quartered
6 ½ oz green beans, such as haricot or runner beans, cut into 4-inch pieces
2 medium zucchini, sliced
A handful of broken spaghetti, vermicelli, or short macaroni
2 tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and cubed
Crusty bread, to serve

Pistou
1 teaspoon coarse salt
Freshly ground black pepper
6 young garlic cloves, chopped
A handful of fresh basil leaves and basil buds, torn
2 oz Parmesan or pecorino cheese, grated
1 oz tome de chèvre (hard goat cheese), grated
2/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

Serves 4-6

Pour the boiling water into a large soup pan. Add the bouquet garni, pumpkin, coco beans, carrots, onions, and potatoes, and return to a boil. Reduce the heat to a moderate simmer, then cover and cook for 20 minutes. Add the green beans, zucchini, pasta, and tomatoes. Continue cooking for 10 minutes, until the vegetables and pasta are soft. Meanwhile, make the pistou. Put the salt, pepper, garlic, and basil into a mortar and pound to a paste with a pestle. Add some of the cheese and a splash of the olive oil, and pound until a stiff paste forms. Continue adding the remaining cheese and oil, pounding each addition. The final paste should be thick and rich. (note: pistou can also be made in a small food processor). Clean the pestle and place it back in the sauce in the mortar at the center of the table: a dramatic presentation. Ladle the soup into big, individual bowls and let everyone stir in their own pistou as they eat. Serve with crusty bread and woody Chardonnay. Bon Appétit!

Our Most Popular Gift this Year!

2009-12-18T15:59:00.001-08:00

Our Holland flower vases are our most popular gift this season! Versital, unique and perfectly priced at $25 small, $36 large. Customers keep saying they make the "perfect" gift.

Fill with flowers for the Hostess.

Herbs for the Chef. Small size pictured above.Paint brushes for the Artiste. Or colored art pencils for the Kiddies. Large size pictured above.

Glasses are all attached and slide up the metal handle as a set for easy cleaning! Buy your vases soon...limited quantities as they are imported from Holland shop@maisonreve.com, 415.383.9700

For the Entertainer: Noël Napkins

2009-12-10T22:54:00.000-08:00

Hunting for the special gift? Here's one from my Holiday Reve List:

For the Entertainer: a set of Noël flax napkins from Libeco-Lagae in Belgium. Comes in red or white embroidery on natural flax linen. I love their classic look and quality. $22/napkin. Purchase in-store, 415.383.9700 or info@maisonreve.com. Remember we gift wrap and ship. Check back daily for more of my favorite gift giving ideas! Yasmine

Vintage Holiday Workshop

2009-12-01T22:02:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars!

This Sunday, December 13, 11-12 noon for our Annual Vintage Holiday Workshop at Maison Rêve! Our Chief Inspirer and owner, Yasmine, will get you in the spirit with endless creative ideas - including her personal favorites - for bringing that special vintage touch to our holiday season.

From Vintage Decorating with red stripe grain seed sacks....

To Vintage Entertaining tips to create a very merry table for your guests....

To Vintage Gift Giving with personalized gifts that have meaning and inspiration without overstretching your wallet. Workshop is free but seating is limited. RSVP early info@maisonreve.com 415.383.9700. photo credits Country Living magazine.

2009-10-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

Come laugh and share some bubbly with the girls at our annual Urban Farmhouse jewelry trunk show, Thursday, October 29, 6 to 9pm! We'll feature local artists Mishka and The Powell Girls.

Here's the story behind Mishka and a sneak peak at a few of the pieces we'll have that evening.

Mishka is a one woman story. Her name is Kaoruko Acker and she lives local in Marin County. In between driving her kids to school and soccer practice, she set aside time time in her studio to be creative.

All her necklaces, bracelets and earrings are made from natural stones. Inspired by the seasons, her unique designs are brought to life with her two loving hands. Kaoruko's daughter Ella sometimes helps Mom string some gems for fun or organize her antique print letter trays full of treasured vintage clasps.

Since each piece is one-of-a-kind and never made exactly twice, they are the rave among stylish Moms. We have a big following of women that can't wait to see her new collections.

This lovely blue necklace is definitely my favorite! The little "create" tag so inspires me. Each piece often carries a little word tag -- strength, laugh, believe, balance, inspire, breathe, diva.... It's a beautiful way to bring more abundance of that mantra in your life.

Mishka is known for her vintage clasps. She loves mixing new gems with vintage clasps from the flea markets each having a story of their own to tell. Her styles pair perfectly with our store of recycling old with new.

The inspiration for the name Mishka were Kaoruko's two former babies before her kids -- her dogs Misha and Kaya (now passed after very long and happy lives). Sometimes she finds vintage clasps with dog images -- always a big hit among the many dog lovers in town!

So come share some bubbly, ooh and ahh at Mishka's new collection, and hear from Kaoruko herself what colors and styles are in vogue this holiday season. Receive 20% off all her pieces that evening only. Her pieces make very special presents so bring your gift giving list. RSVP info@maisonreve.com.

Rachel Ashwell November Event Announcement

2009-10-11T15:37:00.000-07:00

Rachel Ashwell is coming to Maison Rêve! Thursday, November 12th 5-7 pm. We can't wait -- already 85 people have rsvp'd to this event...

Rachel Ashwell has been a long-time inspiration for Maison Rêve. So its an honor to have her launch her new book, Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic Interiors; My Rooms, Treasures and Trinkets, at our store. She'll share her personal thoughts behind her new book and lead a 'Vintage Holiday' workshop! Space is limited so spread the word and rsvp now info@maisonreve.com 415.383.9700. Stay tuned for weekly updates on the behind-the-scenes preparation for Rachel's visit.

Come Flea with Me!

2009-08-17T21:53:00.000-07:00

Our customers had beaucoup fun at last month's Brocante! The sun was shiny just like the hot flea market days in Provence.
We shared our tradition of treasure hunting in France with a "pain au chocolat" in one hand -- always brings us good luck. We served them fresh from the oven to our customers. They were all gone in the first hour!
Pretty little mixed matched vintage teacups were very popular. We got these from a local estate sale.Our imported milk bottle crates from Provence were scooped up for their repurposed function as unique storage containers. We have a few left for this month's market.More people came early this time -- there was even a little line at 8am if you can believe it! Lots of customers took home these french jars and perfume bottles. They make a lovely vase in your bedroom paired with a simple bloom for your daily inspiration.

We've already found some fabulous treasures for this month's market. So save the date and spread the word to your friends -- August 29th, 8am - noon. Why not make it easy on yourself and just go ahead and mark the LAST SATURDAY of every month on your calendar for the Maison Rêve Flea Market. As I always say, "Come flea with me!" Yasmine

Paris je t'aime

2009-07-29T22:28:00.000-07:00

We just finished watching this fabulous french movie and had to share. Its called Paris je t'aime (check sundance channel for times). It has 18 seperate short stories each one by a different international director -- but all filmed in Paris. Very witting and entertaining. Great cast...juliette binoche, gerard depardieu, steve buscemi, natalie portman... It made me want to book a flight and fly to Paris tonight. Paris je t'aime aussi!

July Flea Market This Saturday

2009-07-22T23:13:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the month! Our July Flea Market is this Saturday, July 25th 8am-noon in the back garden of our store. Come early -- we had a line at 8 am last month.

Our "Maison Reve Inspirers" (left to right Courtney, Yasmine, Lisa and Michelle) loaded a 14 ft truck of fun finds for the brocante and store. Rummage through French foosball sets, a vintage cocktail shaker, crock pots, enamel containers, sap buckets and fishing baskets (great storage) and even a 10 ft sailboat with colorful oars --now wouldn't that be nautical in a kids playroom!

We'll have lots of pretty boxes and creative storage containers too!

After picking the perfect Find, slow your life down and relax for a leisurely brunch at a local cafe in charming Mill Valley. We recommend Small Shed Flatbread or The Depot across from our store if the weather is nice. Live like the French. See you at the Flea!

OOBA - The Power of the Flower!

2009-07-21T11:18:00.000-07:00

Our new friends, Janet DiGiovanna and Danny Rubenstein, pictured here with Stan Williams, made a very generous donation of OOBA to "The Find" book signing party. OOBA is the world's first sparkling hibiscus beverage and is rich in the ancient healing power of hibiscus - a powerhouse of antioxidants. As guests nibbled on organic goodies from the local farmers market, they were treated to this delicious hibiscus drink.

Janet and Danny are the founders of dash - Advisors to Innovative Food and Beverage - they are strategists, business builders and entrepreneurs. Danny was one of the original partners of "Naked" Juice, the COO at Odwalla and together with Janet has advised many companies such as Whole Foods, Pom Wonderful and Tazo.

After meeting Stan and learning more about Housing Works Thrift Shops, dash Advisors made a large donation of OOBA for the next Housing Works benefit in NYC. Housing Works is the largest community-based AIDS service organization in the United States. Here at Maison Reve, we feel so blessed by the generosity of our new friends. Cheers to Janet, Danny and of course, Stan!

Maison Reve and "The Find" Book Signing Party!

2009-07-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

A farmhouse table filled with local organic cheeses, figs, grapes and breads, hand-picked from the local farmer's market that morning. Even the plates are compostable, helping to make great soil for our garden!

Re-purpose vintage items, like this scale, as a serving platter.
Serve your guest with pieces that are unexpected.

Stan Williams talks about his passion for vintage pieces and what led him to write "The Find". He says " love what you have in your home; don't feel obligated to keep anything that doesn't feel good to you".

Yasmine speaks to our guests about how she was inspired to create her style of
Urban Farmhouse Living.

The audience participates in the lively discussions.

We love this farm trolley that was repurposed as a coffee table for the evening.

We made the cover! July 9th Book Signing Event!

2009-07-02T14:58:00.000-07:00

Come and be inspired by Stan Williams, author of “The Find”.
Thursday July 9th, 2009
Time: 6:00 – 8:00pm
Maison Rêve
108 Throckmorton Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941
415.383.9700

The Find by Stan Williams is sub-titled ‘The Housing Works Book of Decorating with Thrift Shop Treasures, Flea Market Objects, and Vintage Details’ - that just about sums it up. It’s been said that this beautiful book “will make you wish you had an empty house that you could decorate from scratch - or at least an empty room.” Stan will let you in on secrets about what to look for, and how to identify a great piece. Followed by Yasmine McGrane, owner of Maison Rêve and inspiration for the cover of The Find, speaking about Urban Farmhouse Lifestyle.

Flea Market Brocante - This Saturday June 27

2009-06-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars! Our Flea Market Brocante is this Saturday, June 27th 8am to noon. Come early for the best finds.

May Brocante

2009-06-03T21:13:00.000-07:00

Our second Maison Réve brocante or French flea market was a hit! The last Saturday of every month we hold this unique sale in the garden behind the store. There are vintage treasures abound and great buys for every budget. Starting at 8am, people line up to be the first to discover a hidden special something. Be sure to visit us next month on Saturday, June 27th at 8 am. For more images of the last brocante visit our flickr page. Merci!

Maison Réve Brocante Weekend

2009-04-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

Our Brocante or French Flea Market was a tremendous success! Inspired patrons lined up at 8 am to be the first to find special treasures and one-of-a-kinds early in the morning. Our accordioniste played French music while people sipped hot coffee and tasted our new organic biscuits and biscotti. Maison Réve inpirers laid out vintage tea sets and kitchen ware for the taking...
Our festive bunting alerted passersby to the hub bub of activity in our Urban Farmhouse garden at the back of the store.

We bid bienvenue to all who entered.

A treasure trove of vintage goodies, discounted garden decor and one of a kind items are to be found at our Brocante the last Saturday of every month. Don't forget we open at 8am for those who want the best deals and discoveries! We hope to see you all there next month on Saturday May 30th!

We're on the Cover!

2009-04-23T21:16:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce that we made the cover of a great new vintage home decor book called The Find: The Housing Works Book of Decorating With Thrift Shop Treasures, Flea Market Objects, and Vintage Details by Stan Williams. A photographer came to shoot at Maison Réve's owner, Yasmine McGrane's home about a year ago. Yasmine took the photographer on a day of antique shopping to scout out and shoot new vintage trends in decorating. For the cover, they chose a photo shot in Yasmine's master bedroom.....the Y was a wedding gift a friend gave her along with an & and D for Yasmine & David. We are so happy to see our photo selected for the cover of the book, a first for Maison Rêve!

The Find hits our shelves on May 5th. Check back for info about our book signing and kick off event that week!

Natural Egg Dying

2009-04-23T21:07:00.001-07:00

Our Natural Easter Egg dying workshop was a hit! Children and parents alike lined up to create naturally dyed Easter Eggs using dyes made from vegetables. Keep checking in for more Maison Réve workshops and playshops for parents and kids.

Heartfelt Pledge for February

2009-02-13T17:31:00.000-08:00

The night before Valentine's Day, and our window is full of heartfelt pledges from the community. Moms and children, friends and sisters, Dads and sons have all made some kind of small commitment this month to do something to giveback that can make a big impact. Maison Rêve is proud to help people make a pledge for this month of love. So far we've given away over a 60 word stones to help people remember their pledge. Please come in and help us give back to our community by making an individual commitment of charity. Here are some of our favourite pledges so far...

"I pledge... no more paper cups."
"I pledge to pick up trash at the beach."
"I pledge to donate my toys to charity."
"I pledge to plant a garden, and protect open space..."
"This month I will dedicate 10% minimum toward those in need of fresh water in Africa."
"Provide a monthly meal for Homeward Bound Residence."

What will you pledge?

Welcome our new Inspirer, Delphine

2009-02-12T20:14:00.000-08:00

Please welcome our new Inspirer, Delphine Matilda Ireland McGrane. With a shock of raven black hair and a pair of beautiful slate grey eyes, she arrived on February third at 7:48 am. Measuring in at 8lbs, 4oz and 21", she is the newest (and smallest) addition to our lives.

We are so happy to welcome her into our family...our newest love!

February is for Heartfelt Pledges

2009-02-06T11:41:00.001-08:00

We like to think of February as celebrating life and love. While Valentine's Day is a wonderful way to show loved ones how much you care, it can also be great to give back to your community. In the spirit of giving back, we encourage you to make a heartfelt pledge at Maison Reve. Come into the store and write your pledge on a heart to hang in the window with other pledges from the community. To help inspire you to fulfill your pledge, we will give you an inspiration stone designed by SF artist, Rae Dunn as a reminder of your pledge. This stone is our gift to you for your generosity in giving back.

Rainy Days Ahead?

2009-01-13T17:57:00.000-08:00

With a break of sunshine over the last couple of days its hard to imagine winter weather ahead. In this week of dry weather we encourage sunny walks on the beach or a trip to Muir Woods. But what to do when those cloudy skies re-appear? Jump in the puddles, of course! Who said rainy weather has to keep you from the beach? We love to spend a rainy afternoon sipping coco at home, or when we are feeling adventurous, a walk with the dog on a sprinkling evening can be a warm and cozy outing with a pair of wellies. We urge you to take advantage of the warm breeze blowing for now, and when those sunny skies change for cloudy ones take advantage of an evening walk and the scent of freshly fallen rain.

A little cheating never hurt anyone...

2009-01-04T12:10:00.000-08:00

Starting 2009 with a treat sounds like the beginning of a happy new year. We love Ina Garten's Barefoot Contessa products, and want to share them with you and your family. While making a chocolate cake from scratch is a great way to bake, making Ina's simple Chocolate Ganache cake is so easy and delicious, you might dust off those baking pans more than once a year! Her sour cream coffee cake and a cup of coffee or tea is a great way to start your day. Come in and check out all of her deliciously and simple mixes, sauces and preserves. From our table to yours, happy eating in 2009!

Wintertime Treats

2008-12-28T14:51:00.000-08:00

With Christmas behind us and the prospect of a New Year just ahead, we hope that you take a moment to sit and enjoy family, friends, and maybe even a wintertime treat or two. We all need a little reminder to give ourselves a moment everyday to enjoy those little things in life. Try making a delicious mug of spicy hot coco and homemade marshmallows for an extra special treat. Buy your favorite magazine and read it while soaking in the tub. Or enjoy a crisp evening walk with your closest furry friend. Whatever you do, make time for yourself in this last week of 2008 in time for a fresh 2009. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year! Bonne Année!

Maison Rêve Wreath Making Workshop

2008-11-29T15:47:00.000-08:00

Come make a holiday wreath at Maison Rêve's weekend workshop, Saturday, December 6th from 2pm to 4pm. Bring fresh greens into your home and embellish them to create a beautiful holiday wreath with Maison Rêve owner, Yasmine McGrane. Limited space available so sign up now to reserve your spot. Workshop fee is $15 dollars plus the purchase of a wreath at the event. www.maisonreve.com or by phone 415.383.9700

Pumpkin Carving at Maison Rêve

2008-11-09T12:34:00.000-08:00

Maison Rêve enjoyed about 3 dozen kids and parents for their first pumpkin carving workshop held October 30th. Children drew faces and scooped seeds while parents and Maison Rêve inspirers carved scary and ghoulish faces into pumpkins. Sticky fingered boys and girls ate pumpkin pie and parents watched, happy to have seeds and pumpkin debris here rather than at home. All in all, adults and kids alike had a good time! Look for more seasonal Urban Farmhouse Living workshops coming in November and December!

Pumpkin Carving Demo Thursday, October 30th 4-6pm

2008-10-23T15:44:00.000-07:00

Family Pumpkin Carving Workshop at Maison Rêve
Thursday, October 30th 4-6pm
Turn beautiful orange pumpkins into silly and scary jack-o-lanterns at Maison Rêve the night before Halloween! Learn how to create fun faces with new techniques and tricks! What to with your pumpkins afterward? Learn about seasonal pumpkin recipes as well as ways to recycle past their prime pumpkins after the Holiday. Join us at Maison Rêve for another great seasonal workshop! Please call to reserve your spot. You can bring your own patch picked pumpkin or purchase one that night for $5.

info@maisonreve.com

415.383.9700

Weekend Activities and a New Journey

2008-10-18T00:59:00.000-07:00

We've just finished our first week at our new location with great enthusiasm and support from our friends and community! Wow, what a journey its been! Six great years have helped us grow into the Urban Farmhouse Lifestyle store we are today, and our passion for life and our vision for the future will send us into the next six years with a new path and goal. We hope that all of you who are inspired to make time in your life for family and friends start your day with a small inspiration that will help you on your journey. ..

If you need a little inspirational boost for the weekend check out events happening locally like free admission to local museums, The Spice of Life Festival in Berkeley, The October Book Sale at Mill Valley Library, or the Pt Reyes Station Farmer's Market.

We look forward to inspiring you everyday!

Bienvenue! Grand Opening Weekend at Maison Reve

2008-10-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

At 10 am the paper came down off the windows as Yasmine and her team of Inspirers welcomed customers into the new home of Maison Reve. Locals, long time customers and new converts enjoyed a Friday opening complete with ribbon Cutting ceremony, a visit from the local Mill Valley Fire Dept (who came to help welcome guests and take some pics with the Maison Reve Gals) and an evening celebration hosted by Yasmine. Local organic fare was served, wine was poured and the space was a buzz with support from community, family and friends. Friday was a great start for the Grand Opening Weekend at Maison Reve. Come visit us Saturday and Sun to continue the celebration and enjoy several Urban Farmhouse Lifestyle demos including French Story time, eco-tote stamping and Feng Shui! We look forward to inspiring you everyday!

Grand Expansion Workshop Schedule

2008-10-02T12:42:00.000-07:00

Bonjour! Our Grand Expansion Event is quickly approaching and we are excited to post a detailed schedule of events for the entire weekend, October 10, 11 and 12. We hope to see you there!

Event Workshop Schedule for Saturday

Workshops are led by our Maison Rêve Inspirers and complimentary this Grand Expansion weekend! However, space is limited so we recommend you register in advance 415.383.9700, info@maisonreve.com

Saturday, October 11

10:30 am "French Storytime"
What a wonderful opportunity for your children to come listen to French stories read by our French native Sabine Lamoureux. Following storytime will be a “Pumpkin Cupcake Party” for Finnegan – our owner Yasmine’s 2 year old son. All kids welcome to enjoy some yummy home-made treats!

12:30 pm “Creative Children’s Rooms and Family Friendly Spaces”
Designing unique rooms for babies and children with repurposed vintage pieces, antique toys, and designs that foster creativity, playfulness and dreamy rest. Learn how to carry that inspiration into the rest of the house and bring out the child in all with family friendly spaces that are at once elegant and delightful.

1:30 pm “Tips to Creating a Beautiful Shabby Chic Home”
Learn about our favorite furniture line - Rachel Ashwell’s Shabby Chic Studio collection. Senior representatives from Shabby Chic headquarters in Los Angeles along with the Maison Rêve interior design team will be here to teach tips on pairing this slipcovered furniture with vintage items and showcase the new styles for the Autumn season.

2:30 pm “Green Your Home”
Join us to learn more about the simple things we can do to go green in our home using non toxic finishes and decor.

4:00 pm “Feng Shui your Home and Life”
Tips to improve the chi flow in your home and life by our Feng Shui consultant, Sabine. Bring one question about a blocked energy in your home or life and Sabine will work with you one-on-one for a 10 minute complimentary session to create flow in your life and see the advantage of Feng Shui.

5:00 pm “Something Old and Something New: Designing with Vintage and the Urban Farmhouse Style”
Create something new with all of the warmth and beauty of the old by refurbishing and repurposing vintage items. Let us teach you how to create the Urban Farmhouse Style by determining the function of the space and then allowing the unique pieces to inform the design.

*********************************************************

Event Workshop Schedule for Sunday

Workshops are led by our Maison Rêve Inspirers and complimentary this Grand Expansion weekend! However, space is limited so we recommend you register in advance 415.383.9700, info@maisonreve.com

Sunday, October 12

11:30 am “Feng Shui your Home and Life”
Tips to improve the chi flow in your home and life. Bring one question about a blocked energy in your home and life and Sabine will work with you one-on-one for a 10 minute complimentary session to create flow in your life and see the advantage of Feng Shui.

12:15 pm “Leaf Pressing”
A favorite fall activity, leaf pressing time is here. As the season changes and the fall leaves are abound, what better time to capture the beauty of the outdoors and create a work of art through a simple leaf. The leaf pressing workshop is a fabulous opportunity for anyone to learn ways to gather leaves, learn of varieties, and press them into beautiful creations

1:30 pm "Spruce Up Your Home for the Holidays"
Come join Atelier Joya floral & event design company to learn simple décor tricks & tips to create beautiful tablescapes and accent decor pieces.

3:30 pm “Eco-Tote Stamping”
Maison Rêve invites you to make an Eco-friendly tote decorated with harvest designs. Cut stamps from apples and potatoes and stamp your 100% cotton tote using environment friendly paints. In no time you'll have your very own tote bag to carry books in to and from the library or to use at the grocery store. No more plastic bags, but a re-useable eco-tote made the Urban Farmhouse way!

Check out our expanded Design Services at Maison Reve! Book a consultation today to bring Urban Farmhouse Living to your home!
design@maisonreve.com

Au Revoir

2008-10-01T11:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Yasmine said Au Revoir to 11 Throckmorton Ave, the space that's been home to Maison Reve for the past 6 years. The charm and beauty of the space we've inhabited will never be forgotten and we hope to take some of its character and spirit with us to our new location, just down the street at 108 Throckmorton. This Year brings lots of change and growth and we hope whoever moves into 11 Throckmorton experiences the warmth of community that we've shared there over the past 6 years. With renovations wrapping up at 108, we are excited to fling open our doors for the opening on the 10th with a fresh yet seasoned look and attitude in the new home of Maison Reve. Merci, No. 11 for all your charm and beauty...we will miss you!

Fall Harvest and Family Time

2008-09-24T09:40:00.001-07:00

Urban Farmhouse living is about enjoying life, slowing your pace to relish moments with family and friends. As the end of summer fades and we are ushered into cool Autumn nights, we think of the things that bring family together... a game after dinner, a walk to the park, and of course food. Eating together can be a simple way to spend time with one another. We all know dinner can sometimes be a rush to feed the family after a day of work, school and soccer practice, but often this the only time the whole family has a moment together before another busy day, why not make it special? We also think of extended family, of community, and hope that we will take a moment to do something to honor the people we love and cherish the time we have together.

Need an idea to make dinner extra special? Check out this recipe we love for an heirloom tomato tart. Visit a local open air market to purchase seasonal produce. A trip to the Farmer's market can be a nice way to bring children into event of cooking a meal, and a chance to taste local produce. Sharing a meal can be an extra special treat!

Maison Reve Grand Opening Invite

2008-09-22T14:43:00.000-07:00

Fall Plans and Ideal Bite Article

2008-09-18T11:35:00.000-07:00

An Autumn chill is in the air, and we at Maison Reve are preparing for the upcoming Fall season with an expansion and a new greener look! In just a few weeks, Maison Reve moves from its 11 Throckmorton location to its new home at 108 Throckmorton (just down the street). With the hustle and bustle of back to school and the general whirlwind that Fall brings, we hope to be settled into our new home by mid October and are excited for the community to come visit us at our grand opening weekend event the 10th-12th. With all the things to do from now until then, we hope that we all take time out to relish the change of the season and the coming of Autumn. Here are a few inspiring ideas from us to you to help you enjoy this special time of year...

Take an afternoon stroll to enjoy those last summer rays.
Curl up with a good book before dinner. Need new material? check out paperbackswap to recycle old books and receive new ones for free. (we love the greenness of this site)
Get new Urban Farmhouse living ideas from our Ideal Bite article here.

What inspires you?

2008-08-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Maison Reve blog, newly created this Fall to deliver daily inspiration to all our wonderful friends locally and across the globe. To start off this blog, we thought we'd share with you what inspires us, the Maison Reve team....

"Cutting flowers from the garden always inspires me."
- Yasmine, Maison Reve Owner

"Enjoying my favorite design magazine while sipping my Pumpkin Spice Latte." - Lisa, Inspirer

"The unpredictable chaos of family life inspires me."
- Gwendolyn, Inspirer, Designer

"Toasting seeds from recently carved pumpkins."
- Jyoti, Inspirer, Designer

"The change of the season; the colors and afternoon light of Autumn inspire me." - Courtney, Inspirer, Workshops teacher

"Picking herbs and vegetables from my garden inspires me to create wonderful meals."
-Tricia, Inspirer, Web Mademoiselle

"I am inspired by the cool nights, making a tasty soup with cornbread and a warm blanket to snuggle up in." - Keesha, Inspirer, Green Designer

Tell us what inspires you...post your inspiration to our blog and share it with all our readers!

We look forward to inspiring you everyday- Masion Reve

Maison Rêve Blog Coming Soon...

2008-08-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

We Made The Cover!

Better Homes and Gardens photographed a home entertaining story with Yasmine at her Victorian home last October. We received an advance copy this week and to our delight one of the photos was selected for their cover! The September issue is on newsstands nationwide mid-August. Take a look and tell us what you think. The story is all about hosting simple gatherings among friends at home. It's a great time to taste local wines, organic cheese, fruits and breads from your local farmers market. The story has some great tips we think you will enjoy.

We're Moving!

We're expanding into a bigger space on the square in Mill Valley at 108 Throckmorton. More room for our popular workshops, unique vintage items and our full line of Rachel Ashwell Shabby Chic furniture. We're also launching Maison Rêve Interior Design. We're ready to work with you to bring our Urban Farmhouse style into your home. Visit us in our new location this October.

FREE Subscription

Moving Sale

End of Summer Inspirations

Spend $200 or more on any purchase with us in September and receive a year's subscription for Better Homes and Gardens magazine on us! We love the magazine and want you to enjoy their ideas. Mention Better Homes Subscription when you make your purchase. Offer ends September 30.

To celebrate the excitement of our move, all customers will receive 20% off ALL items in our shop and at maisonreve.com from today through September 30. Mention Moving Sale at time of purchase for discount. Many items from our recent Paris trip are now in. Happy hunting! www.maisonreve.com

Indulge in heirloom varieties from the garden
Whale watch to the Farallones
Hang laundry whites in the sunshine
Picnic at an outdoor festival
Enjoy an after dinner walk

Maison Rêve® 11 Throckmorton Avenue, Mill Valley, CA 94941 415.383.9700 www.maisonreve.com