Today I am interviewing one of my favorite people, my friend Elizabeth Kirkpatrick, a native Californian who lives life with joie de vivre in a home unlike anyone else’s. She grew up in Northern California, met her Italian husband here while working at Gucci, and raised her young sons for several years outside of Florence, Italy. She and the family moved back here to the Bay Area to create a gorgeous and original home and gardens filled with animals, antiques, flowers and momentos from her travels.
Elizabeth sold antiques for 12 years and had her own shop, The Hen House. She began her blog The Vintage Contessa in 2009. Contessa was her email name and it seemed to fit her, and many of her friends call her that. She kindly opened her home to me and we safely took photos with masks and some distance and she gave some wonderful answers to my questions about what makes her a unique Californian. Meet the closest thing we have to a California Contessa..
Elizabeth you are a native Californian, grew up in Northern Cal. What makes living in California special and do you think it influences the way you entertain?
As a CALIFORNIAN we have it ALL……….OCEAN,MOUNTAINS and The DESERT all within a few hours drive! Besides it’s ALL I KNOW……..I am a 4th Generation Californian. I was born in a little farming community called Modesto in 1960. The housing community was called “Sherwood Forest”. My parents moved to Marin County when I was six months old. I had the best of all seasons as the snow (Lake Tahoe) was three hours away. The desert was an hour and 20 away by plane and my Mother had sisters in Southern California with beautiful homes. We would spend SPRING breaks and summer vacations with them. I ABSOLUTELY LOVED my time there.I would say YES, MY SURROUNDINGS INFLUENCED THE WAY I ENTERTAIN.
Any great memories of growing up here in California ? Summers?
Summers were spent in Newport Beach,Catalina Island and Palm Springs. My Aunt and Uncle had a yacht which we would cruise to Catalina for long weekends. We also had good family friends who I would stay with on Lido Isle.We walked everywhere. They (MY COUSINS) were always barefoot and I being “THE TOURIST” would always stub my big toe! From lunches at THE BLUE DOLPHIN to swimming the CHANNEL(which was a BIG NO NO!!) we were always busy bee’s!I experienced my First Spin the Bottle with a boy named JOHN ~JOHN!At home my house was on a hill where CELESTE and I would cardboard slide and dig to CHINA with gardening spades!I was always building a BARN or RABBIT HUTCH trying to con my FATHER into more pets!Or putting on PLAYS in our basement!I should have been in THEATER!
You are an amazing entertainer do you come by that through your mother or did you learn as you went?
My Parents did entertain while I was growing up.Especially during THE HOLIDAYS. My father would wear a red smoking jacket and my Mother would be in a long ……….wait FOR IT……..CAN YOU GUESS?………..CAFTAN! I knew when we moved back to CALIFORNIA from Florence, Italy I wanted to have GARDEN PARTIES! However, in the beginning we did not have much of a GARDEN! The Italian had the vision to terrace the backyard. My vision was a YELLOW AND WHITE GARDEN! I learned as I went as far as the garden. My husband loves to have people around and entertain. He would have people over every night if I said, “OKAY!” For him it means nothing of whipping up a dinner for 12 spur of the moment! SO, to answer your question I would say MY MOTHER and MY ITALIAN!
Has spending years in Italy improved the way you entertain and live? Or has being married to an Italian ?? Or both?
Living in Italy started for us in 1991 ~ 1994. Three years, four months, and 7 days………I stayed behind in Italy with the SONS when it was time to go back to the USA so MY FIRST BORN could finish FIRST GRADE. We arrived in Italy due to a death in the family so we were there to help out. We arrived in Italy just the four of us. Myself, husband and two little boys. We left Italy with two black Labs, two pound cats, one Italian woman named Gilda who had never been to the STATES and 18 pieces of luggage. It took THREE cars to get us to ROME and THREE WONDERFUL FRIENDS saying GOOD-BYE. A side note……….I PAID NOTHING FOR THE EXTRA LUGGAGE.NEVER MIND OUR BELONGINGS had left three months earlier in a container! Whats the saying,”When the cats away the mice will play!” I went shopping once THE ITALIAN had left! AND I was not buying clothes but plates and pottery!
Did Italy leave an IMPRESSION on me? Most definitely that would be a YES! Food and Family come FIRST in the ITALIAN culture. I have a good story about flying home with my sons to visit my family and I had two Italian business men FIGHTING over who would hold MY BABY! On the reverse flight I had two women in front of me rolling their eyes DISGUSTED that two kids were behind their seats! Guess what NATIONALITY THEY WERE? That trip I had my first big AHAAA Moment! What matters is FAMILY and being KIND. I ADORED ITALY…….I being the AMERICAN did not want TO LEAVE!
Did you grow up living in a house like yours with many cool objects and collected treasures?
My first response is NO! HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A HOUSE LIKE MINE? But in all honesty a few of the things I grew up with are with me today! Mostly furniture and prints, silverware,cooking utensils, and clothing that all belonged to MY MOTHER. My Mother loved to antique or thrift shop. She volunteered for an organization called SUNNY HILLS. I LOVED GOING TO WORK WITH HER AS IT WAS ONE BIG GOODWILL PILE! I was always finding “TREASURE!” I believe my look came into BEING as I had a VINTAGE/ANTIQUE shop for 12 years and my philosophy was, “BUY WHAT YOU LOVE”. That way if I ever closed; I could bring it all home with me! Well, that worked in reverse for me as some of “THE STUFF” I bought for the shop never made it to THE SHOP!
My Aunts and Cousin had BEAUTIFUL HOMES and ANTIQUES which I have always been exposed too. So,“THE EYE” was trained at an early age. Also,In the library in the Palm Springs house were back issues of COUNTRY LIFE from ENGLAND. I adored looking at these magazines, especially the last few pages where the real estate was listed! I would PICK my favorite old house abroad! Nothing has changed I still do that when I see real estate in Europe!
You are a huge animal person and have had an array of dogs, chickens, doves, a cat and even a pig as roommates. How does this work with all your beautiful objects? Most people with all your gorgeous glassware and chandeliers wouldn’t have a pig wandering about, but you make it seem like the happiest spot for them!
The same way it worked without having the baby proofing items! I think all that baby proofing design stuff was just coming out on the market after we had our FIRST BORN! We did NOT use any of that. ALL EYES ON BABY and if we were invited to dinner without kids we did not accept the invitation!
The word NO was used and still is with THE TEA CUP PIGGY! THEY ARE VERY SMART ANIMALS…….unfortunately they are kept in mud and muck and get a BAD WRAP! He actually RUNS THROUGH THE HOUSE from one end to the other. Makes a U-TURN under the kitchen table! We call this SPRINTING! I MUST GET A VIDEO OF THIS FABULOUS FLYING PIG !He has never hit or run into any person or object! He puts himself to sleep every night and you will not hear a peep out of him until you get up in the morning! HE JUST KNOWS WHAT IS OFF LIMITS and understands the word NO very well. He also knows where he can PUSH the LIMITS!!
What’s your favorite dish or go-to for easy entertaining?
I would have to say PESTO for pasta as THE ITALIAN makes it once a year and we freeze jars of it. However, that is just a starter here…..We then serve a main course ~ you know THE ITALIAN WAY! Which for me is “CHASES MEAT” (A neighborhood boy loved this dish so we named it after him!) The real name is Cotoletta which calls for veal but I use thin sliced beef. Last night I made yellow peppers as a side dish……..EASY! Slice 4 bell peppers and take the seeds out. Put three tablespoons olive oil in frying pan and put peppers in and cover for 8 minutes. After 8 minutes add 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar and 1 Tablespoon of sugar. Put lid on and cook for another three minutes. Serve at room temperature. Recipe hails from CUCINA FRESCA which was given to me on my 28th birthday by MY MOTHER! “Elizabeth on your 28th B-DAY to improve the Italian cooking. With Love,Mother “
Is there a cookbook you love?
When we were first married I used THE SILVER PALATE cookbook. My Mother collected cookbooks and she loved GOURMET MAGAZINE. My Grandmother was a food and wine editor for THE OAKLAND TIMES newspaper she even had a RADIO TALK SHOW on KNBR. She had her own column. GO GRANNY!!!!!!! I have enjoyed MIMI THORISSON cookbooks and SKYE MCALPINE cookbook A TABLE FOR FRIENDS.
The other CONTESSA does a FINE JOB TOO! I ADORE HER ONE PAGE RECIPES…………..THE BAREFOOT CONTESSA is always a WINNER! I do her baked SALMON with mustard and breadcrumbs when it needs to be impressive but simple and can be made ahead!
You always have the most inspiring kitchen. How did you get that look.. collected pieces?
Most were FREE or FOUND objects! The Kitchen is the HEART of the HOME. That is where we all hang out. The cat, pig and me. My vision for the kitchen NEVER HAPPENED! I have a page from a magazine DREAMING of a big center island three level table. With a lamp on it! I had found old balustrades to make the table! We still have them. I still have the photo! This vision I had 29 years ago ~ it never happened. SO, I created a SITTING ROOM with my FOUND objects. Everything has a story with me!
The pine cupboard was being TOSSED OUT BY MACYS DISPLAY PEOPLE! (Seems the new Senior V.P. of merchandising did not like pine for the displays!) I also scored THREE TABLES one of which is my desk now and another is our KITCHEN TABLE and the third one I sold. The old dish rack my COUSIN GIFTED ME. The big Flowered chair another cousin was tossing. Second chair was MY dear friends Mother’s kitchen chair……..she was dumping as she moved back to South Africa and I said NO! She has since passed of Cancer. The loveseat belonged to a department store Family in Los Angeles. ORBACH’s I think. The feet are LIONS FEET!
The brick floors were laid by MY ITALIAN one summer; he sent the three of us to ITALY to SUMMER at the beach! The Chandelier I found at a Flea Market. The carpet was a wedding gift from a family member in ROME.(I would love to change that but the sentimental WINS over the NEED!) The FRENCH clock I worked for by sitting in an ANTIQUE SHOP. THE rams head was GIFTED TO ME by a little BOY who lost his MOTHER to cancer. His mother was my dear friend. The feeding trough I found at a Flea Market with my SON for $3.50!!! The cabinet pulls I found in MODESTO at a JUNKYARD!
I think if ONE had to NAME MY LOOK it would be More of an ENGLISH COUNTRY HOME with a TOUCH of THEATER………Cecil Beaton and I SHOULD HAVE MET!
Is there a house drink you like to serve?
WINE or PROSECCO! My husband does not make cocktails nor does he drink them. With one EXCEPTION that would be a CAMPARI. That is his GO TO DRINK on the weekends. My Italian grew up in ITALY were there is no drinking age. Kids start early with water and a splash of wine! So, it is not forbidden when they become teenagers. It has always been there. If we go out I will indulge in a LEMON DROP or a COSMO!I feel like such a GROWN UP when I DO!
Alfresco entertaining is another thing you are a master at. I love how you set up your yard as another space. Any tips for gorgeous plants and creating an outside oasis?
READ those magazines! STUDY THOSE CATALOGS that come in the MAIL! TURN CORNERS DOWN of things that interest you. I am a self taught GARDENER. I read years ago in a British magazine that TWO COLORS in a GARDEN make more of an IMPACT than an assortment of colors. So, I decided to stick with YELLOW & WHITE flowers. Over the years a bit of purple and pale pink have slipped in. Only because I couldn’t WAIT for the white lavender to arrive! The purple grows better for me than the white lavender. When I purchased the PENNY ROYAL I did not realize it gave me a purple flower! I love that plant and BANKSY loves it too…….THE FRAGRANCE when one steps on it is OUT OF THIS WORLD!It likes SHADE and will SELF-SEED.
I used an old antique door for our outside table I found in ITALY………..Again it was FREE!I am still NOT THERE with the Outdoor Look as cushions get eaten by the squirrels! They love to pull the stuffing OUT and make HOLES in my yellow cushions! SO furniture is NOT big on my list which I would Love it be!
I have a fountain for the noise as we back up to a busy street! WE planted six fruit trees last SPRING so I look forward to seeing the BLOSSOMS and BANKSY the tea cup piggy will be HANGING OUT THERE! Catching any fruit that drops!I t will also make another wall to the busy road! ADD A MIRROR if possible!
Favorite candle or home scent?
I do not use candles as the one time I did the candle had dried flowers melted into it and they caught FIRE!!! The candle was in my living room and above the candle hangs DRY HOPS!! The flames were two feet……..high.I grabbed a blanket near by and yelled for The ITALIAN!! The whole experience put me off on CANDLES and that was years ago! My favorite scent is TUBEROSE.
Can we see a peek at your closet? You have an amazing wardrobe of caftans. I think just walking into your closet would make me happy every day. Any advice for someone renovating or creating a special space for their clothes?
I have zero advice as I have a husband who can do it all. Meaning construction, electrical and plumbing.However,he goes SUPER FAST so there is no time to think! Decisions have to be made LICKTY-SPLIT! Like the NIGHT BEFORE the next work DAY! I did have the vision to put my MOTHER’s bedroom lamps in the closet up high they add a little TA-DAH moment when you hit that switch. I have my veil and wedding invitation with my wedding shoes under lucite above the doorway.I always wanted to frame my bugle beaded wedding dress too but to give up. THAT WALL SPACE WAS OUT OF THE QUESTION!!!
I share the closet with THE ITALIAN as I like to refer to him on the BLOG, so it’s NOT ALL FOR ME! It is a DREAM come true but I still have baskets full of clothing that need to find a home soon! We are debating a center island! I DO LOVE THE SPACE when I enter so I think there will be NO center island for now!Instead of a chest of drawers I have an 18th century chest in my bedroom! Practical I am NOT! SENTIMENTAL I AM in saving the OLD PIECES! Let’s just say I’m a GOOD RECYCLER! Chandelier’s are ALWAYS a GOOD IDEA in A CLOSET or PANTRY or a GARAGE!
A California shop you love for home goods or clothes?
CHATEAU BEL AGE1578 W. LEWIS STREETSan Diego,CALIFORNIA
WEB SITE: CHATEAUBELAGE.COM TEXT for INFO: 619-518-1181
This is MY FAVORITE clothing shop I have found EVER! It is located in an old house and the living room has become the main salon with a fireplace. Water and refreshments are served. Opinions given if asked. A patio for outside chatting, eating and laughing. It’s a WONDERFUL SPOT TO JUST HANG OUT! I had my BIRTHDAY party there a couple of years ago! The owner has a FABULOUS sense of STYLE and a GREAT STORY! SHE grew up in an ICONIC CALIFORNIA HOTEL AS A LITTLE GIRL!
Favorite spot in California and one you hope to get to?
MONTECITO, CALIFORNIA.Close to Santa Barbara. I adore LOTUSLAND, a private estate open to the public. For years I missed OUT as their ADS in Santa Barbara magazine were always succulents! OH MY GOSH what a mistake I made ASSUMING what COULD BE! Ganna Walska created LOTUSLAND – Botanic Garden. Let’s just say Money was NO PROBLEM and FIVE husbands LATER you too can visit but reservations MUST BE MADE. Call 805-969-9990 or link here. A book on her LIFE is worth reading called, A ROOM AT THE TOP. She wanted to be an OPERA SINGER, but was told she was not GOOD enough so what does she do? She buys herself a THEATRE in PARIS!
I took so many photos at Elizabeth’s. There were just little vignettes of loveliness everywhere…Including the yards and gardens and patios..and so many beautiful flowers!
I also loved this wall in her husband’s office of photos of her and her two sons through the years.. I wish I had done something like this with my sons. You can see she has a talent for photo styling among other things!
Love these so much!
Follow Elizabeth on her blog The Vintage Contessa where besides her regular posts, features people with fabulous gardens each month and partners with Cindy Hattersley for Ageless Style. She is on Instagram as Contessa and Her Pig which is in her words : ‘Her musings and passions. What Inspires and Dazzles. Loving all things Worn and Rusted. AGE.The Grandeur of The Past. Bottom line Contessa Chatter!!’
Thank you Elizabeth! I could chat with you all day. I love all your wisdom and style and the way you wrap your day to day life in beauty. It’s truly an inspiration!
Get Elizabeth’s look and style. A few things she loves..and some similar looks.
Always Room at The Top by Ganna Walska, Sunbrella Citron Pillow, Aged Iron Pedestal Bowl, Jennafer Grace Leopard Paglamas, Hand Blown Colette Wine Glass Set, Outdoor Wall Cameo, Romi Tote Bag.
Hope you enjoyed this glimpse of Elizabeth’s California home as much as I did!
Sorry it’s been a while since my last Californians at Home post. Hopefully more soon! It’s not been easy doing this during the pandemic as you can imagine. If you missed them, you might also enjoy my other posts on Californians at Home – designer Cindy Hattersley, artist Heidi Woodmansee, and blogger Kristin Maxwell.
Have a great weekend!
Kim
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KIM!!!
YOUR PHOTOS OF THE HOUSE AND GARDEN AND BANKSY AND ME ARE KEEPERS!WHAT A FUN DAY We HAD AND IT WAS SO GOOD TO SEE YOU!
I hope my answers were not too long!!
I enjoyed your questions and maybe RAN WITH THEM………a bit too long!
YOU MUST COME BACK WHEN THE GARDEN IS AT ITS PEAK PERFORMANCE!
THANK YOU for being SUCH A GOOD FRIEND THIS LAST YEAR AND CHECKING IN WITH ME!YOU WILL BE HAPPY TO HEAR I HAVE LANDED AN APPOINTMENT FOR THAT SO DESIRED SHOT!!!
THANK YOU FOR PUSHING ME!
AND A BIG THANK YOU TO JULIET of MAKE MINE A SPRITZER for showing me the way……………….
NOW I MUST GO READ AND LOOK AT IT AGAIN!!!!!!!
THANK YOU!
I”M SMILING EAR TO EAR!
XOXOX
Elizabeth, So happy you are getting a shot finally! Thank you Julia!! Thank you again for letting me share you home and life here for all to adore! You truly are a joy to know and an inspiration on how to enjoy life. We need more of this! xoxo
Thank you for curating such a beautiful post about such a fascinating woman! Contessa is a very well-kept secret or perhaps not so well-kept secret LOL
The first time she stepped through the door of my store I knew I was in for a whole lot of fun!
Thank you for sharing Contessa with all of us!
Valerie Lee Ferrari
Hi Valerie, She is really special and a WHOLE LOT of fun! She knows how to live! Thanks I am glad you enjoyed it. Kim
TIME FOR ME TO COME BACK AND STEP THROUGH AGAIN ONCE WE ARE ALL SHOT UP!
I NEED A DOSE OF Southern California AND I NEED TO PUSH YOU ON THAT BOOK YOU NEED TO WRITE!!!!!!!!!
LIFE AT THE HOTEL DEL……………
XOXXO
Kim I just loved this. Such a beautiful glimpse into the life of
The Contessa!
She is of my own heart “more is more”.
Thanks
A
Yes that is so her! So glad you liked it. xo
I think I BEAT YOU in that department AMANDA but you have a beautiful eye………….
Your house looks so “PUT TOGETHER” from the photos I have seen!
Once one started collecting its HARD TO STOP!
I am S L O W L Y finding pleasure in giving away a few things!
THANKS FOR STOPPING BY AND LEAVING A COMMENT!
XXX
Kim what a great interview of the Contessa. Your photos captured her home in all its splendor and the Contessa looks fabulous. I’ve met both the Contessa and you many years ago. It was the luncheon put on by Andrea from Southern California. It was such a treat to meet the Contessa. She’s so interesting, glamorous and unique.
Good work no doubt many will want to follow her.
Thanks for the post.
HELLO SHELIA……………….THANK YOU for being HERE!
I was just thinking about ANDREA……..she is not on social media much anymore!
I must check in with her.
TIME for me to head back to SOUTHERN CALIF!
I don’t think KIM was there it was another BLOGGER with me!
Thank you Kim,
A fascinating interview with of my favourite people in her fabulous home. Only wish I lived a little closer to her particular brand of sunshine 🌞
Best wishes from London
Nick
Period Portraits
Hi Nick! Thanks so glad you enjoyed it.I know I bet she wishes you were closer too.
ME TOO!!!!!!!!!
CAN YOU IMAGINE THE DOUBLE TROUBLE WE WOULD GET INTO!!!
I will ALWAYS recall you saying “why not put a portrait on the ceiling!!!AS I watch TV at night my head looks up and I am considering that!
Of course you know what THE ITALIAN will say!!!
WE SHALL WIN HIM OVER!
XXX
What an inspiring post! Thank you so much for sharing, all the great photos and details, about Elizabeth and her life.
Nancy thank you! So glad you are inspired by her too.
MANY THANKS NANCY………I HAD FUN ANSWERING HER QUESTIONS!!!
XXX
Wonderful interview…
Elizabeth, you are such a vibrant and enthusiastic soul! Your home, garden and wardrobe reflect that joie de vivre perfectly…
Thank you, Kim, for your beautiful photos of Contessa’s house and garden and thoughtful questions for her. Elizabeth, honestly you need to write a book!! You are full of so much goodness it should be shared with the world…
xo
Stephanie aka tendrheart4
Stephanie I agree! She needs a book. So glad you enjoyed the post! xx
WHAT A BIG COMPLIMENT STEPHANIE!I really donot think I have enough content or I would DO IT!
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER………..for this next decade!
THANK YOU!
XXX
Loved loved loved this. I cannot get enough of Elizabeth so thank you so much for featuring her.
Pierrette
Hi Pierrette, I am so glad! x
MY FAN CLUB NUMERO UNO!!!!
BIG HUGS!
XXX
So enjoyed that tour and interview, Kim
Thank-you
Hi Dee! Thank you glad it was a joy!
I’m so happy that you featured Elizabeth. She is such a sweet lady with an eclectic sense of style. Her closet is stunning and citron shades look great on her. It’s always a pleasure to learn a little bit more about Elizabeth.
Thank Loree! I know besides being a style guru isn’t she the absolutely kindest? Adore her.
LETS PUT CITRON ON YOU!
BY THE WAY YOU OWE ME A PHOTO OF SOME PIECE OF CLOTHING WAY BACK WHEN!!!
HUGS TO YOU OVER THERE ON THE ISLAND of MALTA!!
I MUST COME TO VISIT!
XXX
Kim,,
Such a delightful article, and I can imagine a wonderful day spent with Elizabeth. Her personality just shines in every corner of the house. I think you did a wonderful job in capturing the beauty in her vignettes and in her garden. I definitely think Elizabeth has a book inside her that needs to be written! What a fabulous home and a fabulous life Elizabeth has made for her and her family. And she is a lucky lady to have the Italian!! Thanks again You’re such a wonderful way to start my day,
Martha
Martha, I had the best morning at her house. I agree a book should happen. She could impart wisdom and inspire with her recipes and anecdotes! I guess we all could use an Italian around the house! Thanks for stopping by here ! xo
DEAR NEW BEST BUDDY…………..I CANNOT WAIT TO MEET YOU SINCE FINDING OUT YOU USE TO LIVE IN MY HOOD AND SHOPPED IN MY STORE!
WE WILL NEED TEN HOURS STRAIGHT NO HUSBANDS!SO MUCH TO COVER…………
THANK YOU for coming to meet KIM and chiming IN!
XXX
I absolutely loved this Kim.
I saw photos of Elizabeth’s boys I haven’t seen before.
Big bonus now knowing her favourite recipes when entertaining ……..my dinner party for next Saturday is sorted.
Your photos are fabulous too Kim.
Thank you
Anita.
Anita weren’t those photos great? I loved the recipes too.. Thank you so much Anita! xo
I would do a BLACK & WHITE photo every year for FATHERS DAY for THE ITALIAN!
I STOPPED WHEN I COULD NOT GET THEM HOME FOR THE APRIL SHOOT.WE ALWAYS DID THE SHOOT APRIL FIRST OR THERE ABOUTS SO I HAD TIME TO PICK JUST ONE PHOTO AND GET IT FRAMED BY JUNE FOR FATHERS DAY!IF I HAD A HAT ON THAT MEANT I DIDNOT LIKE MY HAIR!!!
XXX
Wonderful interview, Kim. What a joy meandering through our California Contessa’s stunning home and gardens. No matter how many times ones visits her home on the blog or in real life there is always something new and fascinating to see. In your photos I spy platters from The Ivy that I’ve never seen before! Oh, and that new and spectacular closet … windows, chandeliers, lamps … chartreuse velvet hangers and her collection of straw bags. Divine. I’m heading back to the beginning and going through it all again. Love this series … and hope to see more as we slowly move toward a return to life as we once knew it. xo
Thank you Juliet. I agree there is always some nee thing I didn’t notice before! Did you see she has tea cups from the Ivy also? I spotted those right away. It’s one of those places I think about… when things get back to normal. Isn’t the closet perfect for her? Just love it with her bags! xo
THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP AND ALWAYS LOVELY ABOVE AND BEYOND COMMENTS!
I SO ENJOYED THIS DAY WITH KIM AND ANSWERING HER QUESTIONS!
XXX
A wonderful interview of the contessa we all love !!!
Hi Josephine! Thank you so glad you enjoyed it!
THANKS JOSEPHINE!!!!
XXX
Oh how I loved this! Elizabeth is such a gem! I loved her from hello! Kim! You are an amazing blogger. I look forward to this series! Thank you and keep em coming!
HI Kimberly! Thanks so much! xo
THANK YOU!!!
I”m BIG on EXCLAMATION MARKS AND ALL CAPS………..just know I’m NOT YELLING I’m just VERY ENTHUSIASTIC!
XXX
I introduced Elizabeth to your blog. I think I found your blog on my friend Jody Brett Kelly’s blog. Such a small world. Elizabeth and the world she has created are a treasure for us all.
Linda thank you so much! She just told me that! I know I used to read Jody’s blog and we even met up a few times. I agree love her world and thank you for connecting me to such a lovely person. xo
I HAVE KNOWN LINDA FOR 35 years!!!!!!!!!!!
XXX
My Dearest ( & Fearless ) E-Beth , YOU have ALWAYS kept a Smile on my Face and a Most Special Place in my Heart. And the greatest think is knowing the YOU will ALWAYS CONTINUE being a Most Special Gem in my Life . And I THANK YOU for that . Soooooo : Pick up your Dress and let’s get up that Aisle !!!!!!! Hats off to YOU ——- You know my Motto is “ P.I.E.” ( Presentation Is Everything ) and YOU hold the HONOR of Being Head of The Class …….. Keep Loving it ALL 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 Love , Grandpa Daryl
WHAT A GIFT TO SEE YOU HERE!
MAYBE THAT FACEBOOK IS WORTH MY TIME AFTER ALL!!!
I LEARNED A LOT FROM YOU ABOUT KEEPING RECORDS OF WHO I SPOKE TO AND WHEN AND OF COURSE PIE!!!
YOU DROVE ME NUTS WITH PIE BUT THATS OKAY!!!!!!!
XOXOX
That’s right — Always keep good notes ( the older we get the more we forget !!!! LOL
HYSTERICAL!
A POET AT LARGE!
XOXO
Well, that was so much fun. I so enjoyed all the Contessa had to offer. I must try those yellow peppers. The Contessa is truly one of a kind. Loved this stylish peek into her life and home. She’s the best!!!!I always think of her as Auntie Mame with great style.
LOVED AUNTIE MAME was one of my FAVORITE MOVIES GROWING UP!
EVEN have her quote on the chalkboard above my STOVE!
Which is so TRUE!
“LIFE IS A BANQUET AND MOST POOR SUCKERS ARE STARVING TO DEATH!”
AUNTIE MAME
To say I enjoyed this is an understatement! It was so beautifully written Kim and the questions pertinent . I loved finding out a little bit more about Elizabeth. What an inspiration and reminder she is to stay true to yourself and what you love 💕 Bravo!
AT 60 I willNOT CHANGE NOW!
HOPE THE ITALIAN CAN HANDLE ME IN THIS NEXT DECADE!
THANK YOU SARAH!
XXX
What a lovely and charming read about a lovely and charming woman. I will definitely be making the salmon and peppers!
OH THAT IS WONDERFUL TO HEAR!
I HOPE YOU ENJOY AS MUCH AS I DO!
KIM THIS WAS A FABULOUS POST!! I LOVE THIS SERIES! THIS MAY HAVE BEEN YOUR BEST YET. SUCH GREAT PHOTOS OF ELIZABETH’S HOME & GARDEN. YOU REALLY CAPTURED THE ESSENCE OF HER HOME, AND I LEARNED SOME THINGS I DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ELIZABETH!
HER PHOTOS ARE INCREDIBLE I TOO HAD TO ASK………SHE HAS THE LATEST AND GREATEST PHONE!!
REALLY? YOU LEARNED SOMETHING ABOUT ME?!!?
I WILL BE CURIOUS TO KNOW WHAT!
XXX
Such a fabulous look into the life of our beloved Contessa. Thanks for taking us along. <3
THANKS FOR POPPING IN MARY OF TENNESSEE!!!
XXX
What a fabulous visit with La ConTessa! Such joy, vibrance and happiness in every photo ! I absolutely love this Kim! The only bad part was when it ended! Elizabeth, please write a book! You are so beautiful and amazing and such a light in the world! Thank you Elizabeth for another peek into your magical world and thank you Kim for creating this opportunity for all of us!
WHAT A WONDERFUL COMPLIMENT!!
THANK YOU GINGER MY BIRDIE SHOE WINNER!
KIM DID A WONDERFUL JOB WITH THE QUESTIONS!
A BOOK A BOOK……………MAYBE!
XXX
What a fabulous in-depth article about one of my favorite personalities! La Contessa is an inspiring original and I love the way you captured her beautiful nature! Thanks for the extra peeks of her gorgeous home and self!
HI BARBARA………….THANK YOU for reading and stopping by!
WE HAD A FUN DAY!
Went all too FAST!
XXX
Such a vibrant and fascinating post Kim with really wonderful photographs … some particularly stunning ones of Elizabeth. Wonderful to be welcomed into her home and learn so much about her. Those black and white family photos are so special … such a photogenic family!
Thank you for this , Kim and Elizabeth, I enjoyed it so much and I’m sure I’ll read it all again sometime.
Rosemary xx
ps I think Elizabeth suits golden shades of yellow more than anyone I’ve seen!
ITS MY COLOR……………A YELLOW ROSE means “AN END TO AN AFFAIR!”I always felt that was apropos as I left Italy with a sad heart.MY AFFAIR WITH FLORENCE WAS OVER; TIME TO GET GOING AND ON WITH LIFE IN THE BURBS!!!
THANKS ROSEMARY!!
XXX
YELLOW IS MY COLOR!
IT ALSO WAS MY MOTHERS FAVORITE COLOR!
MANY MANY THANKS ROSEMARY.
XXX
Hi Kim,
Great job! You are a very good journalist! This is so beautifully written and photographed, a really loving tribute. This post made me so happy! I needed a pick me up and it did just the trick! You have done an amazing job capturing our dear Contessa Elizabeth. She has such a flair with her clothing, interiors, garden, entertaining. And her devotion to her friends is truly wonderful. Her love of life comes through in everything she does. I’ve been a huge fan and am so happy to have met her through Instagram ( just like you and I met!) and beyond thrilled now that we’re friends in real life, too!
I’m sure E would enjoy a hard copy of this to keep! Would make a lovely little booklet/album. (I come up with all these ideas but have no idea how to accomplish them!) Also, I’m happy that I’m not the only one who is NOT succinct when answering questions! I loved all the details Elizabeth shared about her life. So Interesting!
Anyway, I look forward to the day we can all get together and enjoy each other’s company in person again. so many things to look forward to in the coming months.
XO Heidi
I WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT YOU SAID TO ME WHEN YOU ARRIVED AT THE INSTAGRAM LUNCHEON!
AND I WILL NEVER BE AS ASTONISHED AS WHEN YOUR THANK YOU ARRIVED BY POST IN A RATHER BIG ENVELOPE!
I WAS” BOILED OVER” is that the correct saying?!!!
PAINTINGS OF MY HOME from the photos you had snapped!!!
SOON WE CAN PLAN A GIRLS OUTING!!!MUCH NEEDED HERE!
I SEND YOU A BIG HUG THROUGH BLOG WORLD!
THANK YOU!
XOX
Also I forget to mention what a fabulous match-maker Elizabeth is! We would have probably met IRL eventually, but she made It happen! And I’m so glad she did!
Heidi
THATS MY OTHER JOB!
PUTTING PEOPLE TOGETHER WHO I THINK WILL ENJOY EACH OTHER!!
SO HAPPY IT WORKED!
XOXO
Somehow I missed this full and magnificent post of one of my favourite, sparkly, loving and inspiring friends! Reading through this has breathed a fresh life into you dear Contessa! Keep sharing your story, it is a legacy of passion, style, unique beauty, boldness and creating a life of fullness! I love you a whole bunch Elizabeth 💗
YOU DIDNOT MISS ANYTHING!IT was just PUBLISHED here on KIM’s BLOG which YOU MAY ENJOY!
CRUISE AROUND AND SUBSCRIBE!IF you enjoy what YOU SEE!
HOPE YOU ARE WeLL………….XXX
Kim! I love this post! I feel as though I got to know Elizabeth a little better through your interview. Your photos are lovely and taken from so many angles I don’t think we’ve seen. Oh, how I adore the photo gallery of Elizabeth with her sons over the years. Gosh, she was always very creative! Her home and seeing it from your point of view is so fun! How I wish I could have been there to see all this with you! I love Elizabeth’s home and garden. Her bright chartreuse dutch door and the green trim…we don’t see that enough! I love that new closet!! She is quite magnificent!!
xo
annie
OH MY GOSH ANNIE……….THIS IS ALL GOING TO MY HEAD!
YOU MUST MAKE TIME THE NEXT TIME YOU ARRIVE ON THE WEST COAST!
OPEN INVITE HERE!JUST TELL ME WHEN AND I WILL BE HERE WITH A COFFEE!!!
XOX
Elizabeth is amazing. I’ve followed her blog since 2011 or 2012. Her house is like Aladins cave, filled with memories and treasures and her garden is like the secret garden everyone dreams of. She is the kindest, loveliest, most helpful blogger I have ever known. I have never had the pleasure of meeting her in person but I feel as if we are friends thru our blogs. Thank you for sharing her wonderful home and lovely personality as well as menagerie of animals.
OH VERY KIND…………..AND NOW WE BOTH HAVE THE SAME THROPY BOWL AND ITALIAN WINE BOTTLES!!!
I thought that was so FUNNY!I must send you a photo of my TROPHY a little bit different!!I wanted to use as a dog bowl for WINSTON but was afraid BANKSY would tip and break the porcelain liner!!!!HE LOVED TO DRINK FROM WINSTON’S BOWL!!!
XXX
Oh boy, was this a fun post. Just what I needed since I am missing you both so much. I could read this again and again.
JUST LIKE ME……………..!!!!
SHE DID A WONDERFUL JOB!!
XXX
Oh Elizabeth is just so gorgeous, so inspiring, so full of life and beauty!! Reading all the comments about a book, I have to agree. California Contessa would be a great title!! I’m obsessed with her caftans and glassware and pictures and vignettes and garden and I can hear her smile through her writing, which makes me smile!! Just love a girl who loves dresses!! Highly enjoyable interview, loved all the pictures, comments. Now I’m going to track down some of her recommendations. Thank you Kim and Elizabeth!! xo
HI TRACY
HOW WONDERFUL TO HEAR FROM YOU!THANK YOU for reading and commenting!
These BLOGS take A LOT of work and the comments are so REWARDING to the author!!
Not to mention the GUEST APPEARANCE GAL!!!
THIS HAS BEEN A WONDERFUL SPIRIT LIFTER!!!
THANK YOU KIM!!!
XXX
Hello Kim, Thank you for the great job you did in drawing out the Contessa and organizing all the facets of her life in one article–I’ll bet that was quite an undertaking! I love the photographs, most of them never-before seen vignettes of the Contessa’s cornucopia-like house. People might scour them for tips, but it is really impossible to attempt to imitate her!
–Jim
Hi Jim! Thanks so much. I am so glad you enjoyed it. I feel like there was a lot in her beautiful home that was never seen before! A cornucopia is a great description. So much there, you have might miss a gem! I agree there is only one Contessa and her style is truly her own!