This Valentine’s Day has me reminiscing and thinking of how to honor ALL of my great loves – from my beloved to my pups, to my family and friends who have meant everything to me this past year. Now don’t get me wrong, I’ve adored the over-the-top romance of Valentine’s Days past – adorned with roses, bubbly, chocolate, and decadence! But this year I’m feeling more reflective and grounded and I want to express my love in a more understated and meaningful way, as a sign of deep appreciation for all those who have been by my side.

 

 

With that in mind, I’ve created a more modern interpretation of the traditional Valentine’s Day table! Clean and vivid with dramatic contrast, this table is a slightly more no-frills approach to the holiday (and a more modern take on the traditional). It’s gender-neutral and also perfect for an intimate group-gathering of friends. I especially love the Philippe Starck-inspired black champagne glasses (a nod to the updated twist that he designed for Baccarat years ago in black, that I found at the fraction of the cost!).

 

 

And on any day that celebrates love, I would be remiss if I didn’t honor my pups in some special way! This year, I’ve extended that to honoring all animals (through my Going to the Dogs initiative, where 100% of the proceeds benefit shelter animals in need). My Lockets of Love (an additional, feature piece from The Birds & The Bees collection I produced with Ciner), are heirlooms that capture our favorite snapshots in time, and keep our most valued memories close to our hearts. In two sizes (both on a 17 inch chain), these were created with an accessible price-point in mind, so they are the perfect gift for any Valentine, human or furry!

 

 

It is Philippe Starck who said (and I consider fellow designers to be kindred spirits of sorts), “With creativity comes great anxiety, great effort, great desire for love. To be creative, you have to be curious, generous, to want to try to understand. You also have to want to be loved” (Wired, 2011). It is my deepest hope this Valentine’s Day that all the animals in need may feel this sort of compassion, love, and the support of my most recent creative endeavor! Thank you for helping me reach those in need.

 

Carolyne

 

The Heart Locket and The Birds & The Bees line are available at the Carolyne Roehm Shop.
Click here to visit the shop.