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Welcome to Laurie's sweet cottage home, located in Ventura, CA. She said that when they first purchased their home, 13 years ago "everyone told us we had the ugliest home on the block"! From looking at her home now, that's pretty hard to imagine. In fact, now all of Laurie's friends tell her that her home is looks like a grown-up dollhouse, with all of it's girly appeal and charm. Influenced by Rachel Ashwell, founder of Shabby Chic, Laurie fondly calls her decorating style "Romantic Cottage, with Shabby Chic flair".

 

Laurie's favorite room? Her backyard, where she enjoys her flowers and old garden treasures sprinkled throughout. There are all sorts of wonderful gathering areas and little cozy quiet nooks in the garden, along with a darling cottage playhouse for their youngest daughter. You can see the amount of love, patience and time that has gone into this very sweet garden.

 

"My husband says I would have a party everyday if he would let me. I love to get together with family and friends, just to celebrate life" says Laurie. And it's not just get togethers when she breaks out the china. Laurie uses her china as everyday dishes for her family. She says "No one is more important than my own family to share them with. So use your collections, girls!"

 

When it comes to shopping for treasures, Laurie isn't afraid to travel outside her own backyard, in search of wonderful finds. She and her dear friend Ann love to venture out to the "Worlds Longest Yard Sale". Held annually in August, it's a 4-day, 450 mile sale that stretches from Alabama to Kentuky! Laurie says that she's bought some of her most favorite things at this sale. In between road trips, Laurie also enjoys local shopping as well at the Ventura Flea Market, which is located just a few miles from her home.

 

Laurie owns a darling little childrens store in Ventura called Blooms, where she sells Shabby Chic furniture and vintage finds. She would love for you to drop by if you're in the area, and when you do, please tell her The Old Painted Cottage sent you! -JG

 

(Photographs and article by Jennifer Grey, owner of The Old Painted Cottage)