fifi-fied!

Have you ever wondered what a room in your home would look like if it was styled for a magazine? Well, this dream was recently realized for me when editor Francoise O'Neill (better known as Fifi) visited me with photographer Dan Mayers.



This visit, which was part of Fifi's photo shoot schedule along the East Coast was actually months in the making.



It all began with my contacting Fifi with a story idea back in January.



After months of correspondence, projects and photos, Fifi shared the exciting news that she would be coming to take photos of my home for Cottage Style magazine. I am not shy about telling you that I jumped up and down, after all, I had just blogged about how Cottage Style inspired my bedroom re-do.



Thrilled but nervous I put together a lengthy to-do list of projects to tackle before Fifi's arrival (just days away). Always generous and sweet, Fifi reassured me that I shouldn't be nervous, that we would have fun, that my house was charming, that she's just one of the girls.



Well, I was nervous until Fifi and Dan arrived and then I relaxed because both of them are so down-to-earth and friendly. At times it all felt so surreal. Moments like: Fifi in my car; Fifi at my market; the three of us having lunch at my local Panera. Sometimes I would touch Fifi's arm and say, "Fifi is at my house!"



Dan was also super cool and fun to spend the day with. We chatted about raising kids and 80s punk rock. It was lovely to witness how Dan would just wash the room in light.

How often do you read "punk rock" and "lovely" in the same paragraph?



Years ago I had worked on film shoots in various capacities. How fun it was for me to now be the subject and location. Surreal.



It was a completely amazing experience.



Thank you so much to Dan for photos I just know must be beautiful.



Thank you so very much to Fifi, who is lovely inside and out. She is inspiring, encouraging, generous, dynamic and easy-going!

Can you imagine needing to say the following to Fifi?
• Please use the brick to keep the back door closed.
• Sorry about the crumbs and toys in the backseat.
• Watch your step in the basement.

Well, I had to say 'em all and Fifi did not bat an eye. Now that's fabulous!


The current issue of Fifi's magazine.

I'll be sure to keep you posted when "my" issue hits newsstands.

Thanks for indulging me through this long post!

xo
elyse