We all know how the song goes ... The stars at night, are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas ... well, they're pretty darn bright in the daylight at Marburger as well! One of the brightest stars in my design book is Rachel Ashwell ... creator of Shabby Chic {like you didn't know!} I have all of her books and have followed her for many years, I am a true fan of the original/authentic Shabby Chic style. Soft mushy rumpled linens in shades of cream and white ... a touch of romantic pastels .... and just a small touch of nature, perhaps a rose or two? ... all topped with the most elegant crystal chandelier!
While waiting for the gates to open early on Tuesday at the Marburger antique show, I asked my traveling companions, "Is this the place I may see Rachel?" .... their response, "Well, maybe ... but not likely ... she usually shops before the public and is given certain carte blanche privileges" ... Oh well, I thought to myself ... whatever. Then everyone left me alone ... two went off to get food and the other two went to the parking lot. I just hung out ... waiting and taking in the view. Little did I know my 'view' would include the Queen of chic herself ...
I couldn't believe it! Rachel hanging out waiting for the gates to open. I thought it would be best to leave her alone...everyone else was, but then I realized they were used to seeing her here and if I wanted a chance to say "hello" I better make a move. I'm not a very forward person so it took me a bit to gather my courage, but I did ... I turned and said hello and introduced myself, the rest is a blur .... I'm sure I stumbled on my words and I know I was visibly shaking by the time I finished!
The gates opened and off she went ... how tempting would it be to follow and see how she shops? What she's buying ... so forth and so on. Well, I didn't ... my better judgement got the best of me, plus I didn't want to be a yucky stalker or anything! It was fun however bumping into her along the way ... our paths crossed quite a few times. Here she is wishing Robin Brown {of Magnolia Pearl fame} a happy birthday and checking out a new blouse. 
I did see her at lunch, she was in-line behind us ... I didn't go as far to snap a picture ... I'm not that rude!! but, I'll tell you she had a plain cheeseburger to eat. We were lucky to have some more chat time while waiting for orders. Rachel was incredibly nice and down to earth. A very warm person. There was nothing pretentious about her ... it was a surreal experience to be able to have a conversation with her. I floated around on cloud nine for the remainder of the day ....
Rachel Ashwell
SHABBY CHIC INTERIORS
my rooms, treasures, and trinkets
I had two books signed, one for me and one for YOU!!
That's where the giveaway comes in.
Since Rachel is a blogger as well, I thought it would be fun to have her sign a book to a "blogger" and give it away. The book is signed:
Happy Blogging!
Hope you enjoy my story
Rachel Ashwell
I also thought it would be nice to add a little something extra to the giveaway.
After a little thought and looking at my photos from the day ... I noticed both Rachel and I were wearing scarves. So I created a Shabby chic inspired scarf yesterday and will include it in the prize. One side of the scarf is a shabby petite flower print {much like the blouse Ms.Chic was wearing at Marburger} and the other side is a dreamy pale blue satin .... all ruffled together and adorned with vintage crochet and seam binding.
I will continue to add more Shabby Chic inspired items to the package through-out the month. I'll keep you posted on the "extras"... by the end of the month this should be the most "quintessential" shabby giveaway!!
Would you like to play? To gather the most entries, we'll do it the way I always do:
Leave a comment on this post earns 1 chance.
Become a follower earns 2 chances.
Already a follower? Let me know, earns 2 chances for you .
Mention and link to my give-away on your blog, earns you 3 more chances.
Last day to enter will be Monday, October 31st at Midnight est.
Have you ever been starstruck? Were you happily surprised or surprisingly disappointed? Please share your stories ... and keep your peepers open, you never know who may be standing right next to ya!
I've been super busy preparing for the Gypsy Barn Market happening this weekend ... and still catching up on the home front with my daily 'chores' after being absent for a week. 
