Mansion in May 2025

/

Something I look forward to attending is Mansion in May. A Designer Showhouse and Gardens with proceeds going to the Morristown Medical Center. This year’s mansion was Wildfair in Chester, NJ.

I attended with my sister Noreen, her daughter Christina, her sister in law Vicki, and my dear friend Kristin.

Wildfair History

The Entry Staircase and view from the upstairs walkway was delightful.

The Entry powder room was spectacular. The designer was tasked with keeping the existing vanity and marble and creating a seamless design.

The study had a private courtyard area.

I would love to lounge here with a book!

The gorgeous Diningroom won the Tulip Award for best Interior Design.

This two floor library space was really cool.

The Family room had a stunning onyx bar.

I loved this combination in the Master Bath.

I matched one of the bedrooms.

This bath by Tile Lab was amazing… it’s all tile. Yes, these images are of tile. I was so impressed I snapped a pic of their contact details.

The lighting was dark but, this bedroom had such a unique design.

I loved the use of Bashful by Benjamin Moore in this bedroom.

This Bathroom leading into the teenage girls room was so fun.

The Teenage girls bedroom was beautiful.

I have the great good fortune to know Susan Farcy the designer of this magnificent guest room. The Hydrangea wallpaper was a delight.

The pool and the pond beyond - is a stunning setting.

This garden was up a level around the side of the property. It was Magic!

After the tour we had lunch and then did a little shopping in the Boutiques.

I picked up this lovely block print fabric and I’ll always enjoy having a reminder of this wonderful day.

Until next time friends be well. I’ll see you over on Instagram and if you’re interested in more about the Mansion in May - click the link below for an article I published in 2023 about all the Mansions I’ve visited since 2001 Mansion in May.

Images: Mansion in May, Noreen, Vicki, Kristin & Me

Long Valley Peonies (2025)

/

I’m excited to share the visit my sister Noreen and I had Sunday May 25th to Long Valley Peonies Located at 227 West Mill Road, Long Valley, NJ, 07853. The farm is open 9am-6pm, rain or shine every day, including Sundays, until the blooms are finished. It costs $10.00 CASH to visit and walk the farm. The bouquets are $35.00 for 10 blooms - they accept CASH and Venmo. When we walked around there were more folks at the farm stand buying blooms than walking around. It was in the low 60’s* but the sun came out just as we started walking around.

We started the afternoon off with a yummy lunch at Chesapeake Tavern.

This year the peonies were not as far along in their bloom cycle as they were in both 2023 and 2024. Unfortunately, this was the only day we could get there. Not that I’m complaining but, I do wish I could go again this week.

5-28-2024

I encourage you to visit Long Valley Peonies. If you’re very far from New Jersey look in your own area and find a farm or garden to visit. 🌼

Give Long Valley Peonies a follow and check out their Website.

Til next time friends be well and I’ll see you over on the Gram!

A Visit to Mongers Market

/

Hi Friends this past Sunday I made a quick trip to Bridgeport, CT with my dear friend Kristin - our goal was not to miss Mongers Market 1155 Railroad Avenue - (Hours: 10am-4pm $3.00 cash entry fee) because there last day of business is June 8th and they are only open Sundays there are just 3 shopping days left. I encourage a visit but understand parking is challenging. The markets parking lot and Railroad Avenue offer limited spaces. We found a spot a block away under an overpass.

It was so worth it though - wow - nothing like a 75,000 sq. ft. filled vendors selling everything from architectural salvage, art, ceramics, decor, furniture, glassware, jewelry, lighting, tabletop, vintage clothing and more. Here are a few images of our day.

1155 RAILROAD AVENUE BRIDGEPORT CONN. 06605

Architectural Salvage is first thing you find after paying the $3.00 entry fee.

Amazing vintage transferware platters and plates.

These vintage metal hand-painted lamps were incredible (and Kristin).

Things that reminded me of my childhood. A giant plastic liquor bottle bank, a guitar pillow and the Lanz nightgown.

This hand-painted metal trunk was the coolest.

After walking around for 3 hours we were hungry. We made our way to Brewport for salad and pizza and of course a glass of Prosecco!

The day was so fun! We enjoyed the Market and the Mongers were all wonderfully friendly. Some told us they are moving to another location in Bridgeport - so you never know - we may see them again.

I love my new thrifted finds: a necklace that converts to a broach, a pretty porcelain cloisonne box and a wonderful ship plate for my wall.

Til next time be well and I wish you a wonderful Memorial Day.

Here’s a link to why we hold this day sacred. See you over on the Gram!