Festive Vignettes by Chandan Dubey Photography +

Countdown to Diwali on My Dream Canvas

The festive season is upon us! For me, while there is so much to look forward to, its somewhat bittersweet. I miss my home in India more than usual this time of the year. Diwali also called "The Festival of Lights"  has always been a celebration in my parents home. It all started with my Grandmother and Mom who made it extra special for us :) I recall the endless discussions with friends and cousins about what to wear for the Diwali gathering:) Mom always cooked up a storm and there was a constant supply of mithai ( sweets) in the house. I was always in charge of the diyas, the lights, the flowers and the Rangoli. The polishing of the silver and the painting and sprucing up of the house were yearly Diwali rituals. The simple Puja at home was followed by blessings from the elders. Last, but not the least, there was the lighting of the diyas and the twinkling lights up on the trees. Finally, we would all sit around and admire our handiwork and revel in the beauty of Diwali :) It was a time of celebration and of simply coming together as a family! I do tend to reminisce quite a bit when it comes to Diwali :)

I want to pass on this legacy and the wonderful traditions that surround Diwali to my kids. Thousands of miles away from home, I hope that I am able to recreate the magic of Diwali for my children.

Over the nine years of blogging I have come across many artistic and creative people. There is so much to learn from each of them. One such friend and artist Chandan Dubey is a powerhouse of talent and her work epitomizes the festive season. For me, a Diwali mood board has to include her creations! While, many of you are familiar with her work, her dedication and passion for restoration is truly remarkable! Each piece designed by her is a labor of love. Her work showcases her passion for tradition. She has worked with me to create the most beautiful memory trunk dedicated to my Grandmothers. Today, I am giving you a peak into her  latest collection. From pillows/cushions to table runners to archival prints, boxes, furniture and wall art.....Chandan's creations brings the essence of Diwali and the festive season into our homes. 

You can reach Chandan via Facebook and Instagram. While Chandan is based in India, she does ship internationally to select countries. 

Stunning vintage style cushions/pillows. 

Exquisite Wall Art

A beautiful hutch.

Exquisite artwork that can be printed on varied surfaces, archival canvas, paper, framed and unframed.

Most of Chandan's work is limited edition so reach out before it all sells out :)


Images: Chandan Dubey Photography + and subject to Copyright.

Earthy Meets Modern in NSW

Do you think Earthy and Modern can co exist? I think so! This striking bungalow in Australia's New South Wales is a perfect example. Designed by Interior Design expert Louise Walsh, the home has a unique vibe. What struck me the most was the dark charcoal wall contrasting with the stunning red rug in the foyer. It does create quite the drama! There are pretty textiles beautifully layered in the bedroom and it all looks so appealing.

This home has a moody yet clean and airy vibe. A combination that is hard to achieve but here it seems pretty effortless :)

How are you doing this week? I am inundated with Diwali orders at the Shop At My Dream Canvas. While its been hectic, I can't afford to complain. I am grateful for the response to the new collection. As a small business owner, the  appreciation and support is what keeps me going :) So a "Big Thank You" to all those who have made my "finds" a small part of your lovely home!

Images: Louise Walsh and subject to Copyright.

A Season of Festivities and Gratitude

Hello there! It has been a busy few weeks. September begins with a new school year and its exhausting! New schedules, new challenges and the rude sound of the alarm clock after a long summer :) October rolls in..... and brings with it Autumn and the festive season. This year we faced the added drama of my 13 year fracturing his hand! It threw us off a bit as a family..... however, my baby is a good sport! He seems to be coping well with his schoolwork and other things with support from us. 

I also have an update on the Shop At My Dream Canvas! The Festive collection is now online!  Today, I wrote a small post about my little store on Instagram and wanted to share it here as well...

It was March 13th 2011 my birthday, when I announced the launch of the Shop At My Dream Canvas! My little store is soon going to be in its 9th year! It has been an incredible journey! During this process, while I have had a lot of fun , it has also been exhausting😳I have a lot of people to thank for their constant support and encouragement! Without them, I know I would have given up a long time ago! I have to thank the people who read my blog, my regular clients who thankfully 🙏🏽keep coming back and to constantly meeting new people who help my business grow! Ask any small business owner....we have our highs and our lows but when you have passion you persevere and somehow things fall into place! I run a one woman show with my husband and kids cheering me on😀My team in India is my rock! My parents who support me and spend a lot of their time doing the back end work to run this store! From sourcing to packaging they are involved in all of it! Amarjeet and Virender Bhaiya you both are truly God sent! Last, but not the least, my mom’s best friend who helped get this entire enterprise started. She is the one who found me the sources to procure the stuff! NM passed away last year! I miss her immensely! She will always have my gratitude🙏🏽I seem to be rambling a bit ....but I truly want to thank you guys for all the love ❤️ Your comments and support makes me smile 😃 every single day! 

Its been hard to focus these days....this is what the streets close to my home look like!! Fiery autumn hues tempt you to pull over and admire the view!!

We as a family love road trips! When you have the Cascade mountains in your backyard its even more tempting to hit the road. This is a view of Liberty bell at Washington pass on the North Cascades highway!

Here's wishing you a happy Festive and Holiday season! Join us on Instagram for everyday updates on the happenings at my casa and my little store!!

Images: My Dream Canvas and subject to Copyright!