I often get the question, what inspires you? Besides the obvious color and design inspiration that surrounds me everyday, I am *soo* inspired by the people around me that I love and spend so much time with.
Back several months ago when the concepting of these new collections began, I couldn't help but be inspired by these silly boys
My nephew and my cousins are always cookin' up something mischievous! Whether they are searching for mud-puppies in the creek or soaking each other with water guns, they are so full of energy and charm (yes, believe it...charm)!
At the same time, there are the men in my life that inspire me as well. My father is amazing. There isn't anything he can't do.
...and on top of it all he's a fabulous Grandpa too!
Bella's newest collection, Super Stud is a tribute to guys, both little dudes and dedicated dads.
The new Flirty collection was inspired by the young little ladies that are growing up so quickly around me. My nieces
and cousins are becoming the most darling young women. Seems like their always giggling about the cutest boy . . . or, talking to him! Their sweet and sometimes sassy personalities, outfits and attitude were more than enough to inspire me.
Next up, Camped Out is a collection I've wanted to create for a long time now! Although I don't have any digital files to share, the memories of camping in our pop-up camper, roasting marshmallows around the fire and listening to Grandpa sing "There's a Hole in My Bucket, Dear Liza..." will always live in my heart. Camping weekends and pudgy pies were a dream come true! Camped Out is great and versatile for any outdoors adventure.
Last but DEFINITELY not least is Plastino. Pronounced "Plus - teen - o", this is my mother's maiden name. Born and raised in Italy, my mother's family moved to America in 1966. My grandparents, Nana (Nah - Nah) and Nano (Naaa - Nu), were hoping to better the family with new careers and greater education. Yet today, Nana and Nano live just as they did in Italy. Never having driven a car, they walk to and from work everyday. Approaching 80 years old and taking the bus to the fresh vegetable market every weekend is such an inspiration to me. I have never met two people in my life that have worked harder than my Nana and Nano. The Plastino collection is a tribute to my Nana and Nano Plastino. The floral patterns and elements reflect Nano's beautiful and abundant garden year after year. The products celebrate their favorite season of summer and all the fun that it holds!
If you've read this far, thank you for taking the time out of your day. Bella Blvd means the world to me and I couldn't do it with the support and inspiration from my family.
Now, onto less mushy things....the winner of our first give-away is:
Donna, be sure to email me with your full address at stephanie@ bella blvd dot net!
Thank you for playing along with our giveaway and helping us spread the news. Who-knows, we might just have another big ol' giveaway on Friday!
