GLAMOUR PHOTOGRAFY

To bury one's nose in a heavenly array of petals seems to overtake the mind and soul, almost instantaneously, like great winds upon sails. Memories of dreams and hopes may spring to mind -- of possibilities, of receiving your first red rose and kiss, of candlelit pathways, sweet notes read time and time again, and warm embraces; of the words, "I love you". Such fond memories, words and feelings are truly a matter of the heart; the very deepest matter of all.



Yesterday, today and tomorrow, we celebrate roses, as their ever-returning connection to Valentine's Day and love is deeply woven in history. According to number of sources, roses are representative of love in all its forms, and more so became a popular Valentine’s Day flower during the 17th century. It all seems to stem back to the simple belief that a red rose was the favorite flower of Venus -- the Roman Goddess of beauty and love.



Hence, the rose has been claimed as the single flower of love and passion. And just who grows these delicate flowers? There are specialists throughout the world, who devote their time, expertise, passion and pursuit of continuing the tradition of growing and maintaining a beautiful part of our history. Today, we take a dip into romance, as we explore ideas on how to use, preserve and give roses, as well as three wondrous and fascinating rose gardens across the globe . . .

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. . . and around here, a terrible weakness for perfectly decorated hotels, and the greenbrier most certainly fits into the category -- the intoxicating intermingling of vibrant colours and patterns, leaves and florals and elegant drapery, gilded flourishes and enchanting chandeliers are just the thing for these overcast autumn days . . .









{p.s.} more photos after the jump x

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Rather synonymous with the beautifully hued and brisk autumn season is equestrian style -- perhaps it is due to the association with all that is classically equestrian— beginning primarily with the rich colors . . .



. . . at home, the warm, textural plaid blankets, and paintings of races hung in hallways; hearty, blazing fires and stylishly, meticulously finished and fitted crested blazers, buttery soft leather riding boots, gloves, and the like.



Perhaps what is so fascinating and alluring are the aristocratic appeal and the open adventures outdoors that these things also represent, or, maybe it is the old world appeal—the history, the sport, and the celebration, as well the beauty of horses to be appreciated.



Though certainly not succinct only with autumn, with layers and leaves falling, an appreciation of equestrian beauty is afresh and particular notes of equestrian style (such as beloved Hermès blankets) returns . . .





Beyond magnifying equestrian style, for many, an equestrian escape, where one might enjoy the sport, races, adventures and exploring different trails and areas, is befitting.


From an exotic and welcoming resort in India, to a classic castle in England full of comforts, here is a selection of a variety of lovely accommodations, worldwide, to visit . . .


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Spent part of last weekend in Lake Placid, where fresh mountain air, a cozy chalet, a gondola ride, and dinner overlooking Mirror Lake chased away any traces of the past whirlwind week.

{home away from home}

{view from across the lake}

{all images taken by {this is glamorous} - August 2008}