I’m excited to share this amazingly inspiring interview with our lovely readers today. I would like to introduce you to the uber talented Sharnel Dollar, a highly sought event planner and owner of a bespoke event styling business, named Sharnel Dollar Designs. Amongst all other things, Sharnel is well known for her signature dessert tables.
In the last 2 years, there is a huge focus on styling the perfect dessert table, having said that Sharnel has executed every event to perfection. She has shared the 3most important tips to keep in mind when you are styling your next dessert table. Starting from choosing the perfect backdrop to adding dimension and layers as well as mixing your patterns and textures, Sharnel has it all covered.
As Sharnel has mentioned in the interview below, the highlight of her amazing career is the divine baby shower she styled for the queen of daytime TV – Oprah. While Oprah was in Australia late last year, Sharnel had the honour of styling the most amazing baby shower which was showcased on TV and had the whole of Australia totally smitten.
Also, many of us have seen her gorgeous work in many magazines such as Peekaboo Magazine, South Australia Home Liftout Sunday Mail and alongside the amazing Oprah, Sharnel was featured in the Courier Mail last December. Enjoy the interview xx
When did you launch your business/blog and what is the inspiration behind your business? I began my blogging journey in January 2009 and my business launched in June 2010 after receiving encouraging advice and feedback from Amy Atlas.I have a background in Marketing and have always had a keen interest in interior design, theatre, music and food (especially desserts).
Who and what inspires your work?
I’m most influenced by colour. I can get teary over colour. Whether it’s the colour of a flower, a piece of fabric or the sky. Colour makes me happy.
What was the most rewarding thing that has happened in your career so far?This would have to be hands down designing and styling the Baby Shower hosted by Oprah last year. Meeting Oprah and working with her team was an absolute pleasure. I was fortunate to work with some wonderful vendors on this project too, for without them I wouldn’t have been able to produce such a beautiful shower. I have also met some beautiful woman during my short but rewarding career. Woman that I now have the honour of calling my friend.
Can you tell us your favourite handmade item you have brought recently?
To be honest, I haven’t bought anything handmade recently. My daughter though made me a single paper diamond earring to match the other one I thought I had lost. I will keep it forever.
What would be your best 3 tips for someone thinking of styling their own dessert table?
1.Consider the background. Where is the table going to be placed and how will the background coordinate. Adding a strip of wallpaper, fabric or painted background to mdf backdrop can really add extra visual impact to a dessert table.
2.Add dimension and think layers. Vary the height of your vessels and stands and remember to think three dimensionally. Place items behind and in front of each other.
3.Mix your patterns and textures. Create visual interest by using different textured foods and vessels. Smooth v bumpy. Gloss v matte.
If you could style a party for a “well known/A list” celebrity, who would you choose and why?
Well I’ve sort of ticked that one off the list already! But I would love to style a wedding or bridal shower for Reese Witherspoon. I love her classic no nonsense taste in fashion.
Do you have a favourite trend? {it could be related to anything}
I must say I’m really enjoying the reality cooking shows especially Masterchef. It is such a clever show and my favourite cook is Maggie Beer, I could listen to her all day long. She is such a warm and beautiful soul.
What is your day-to-day like?
Things are a little busy around here at present. I need to slow down and enjoy the ride. My favourite part of the day is snuggling with my kids on the sofa after bathtime. I wake up at 5.30am check emails and organise the kids school bags before waking them at 6.30am. We are out the door by 7.30am. Once I’m back home I pick and pack orders and reorder stock as necessary. I spend quite a bit of time at my children’s schools helping out where I can. On a perfect day I like to have dinner a least preparerd before school pick up. I love my slow cooker!
Once home from school there are the normal things to do like homework, unpacking, lunches for the next day, dinner and bathtime. Once kids are in bed I spend a few hours working whether it’s packing orders or liaising with clients for their upcoming celebrations.
What does the future hold for {Sharnel Dollar Designs}?
I would like to break into the corporate sector providing my sweet and dessert tables for functions and events.I would also like to launch my on line of products!
What is your favourite place in the world?
Anywhere with a beautiful view, peace and quiet, my husband next to me and my kids on my lap and my closest friends nearby.
Email: sharnel@sharneldollardesigns.com.au
Website: www.sharneldollardesigns.com.au
Blog: www.mylife-myloves.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sharnel-Dollar-Designs
I would personally like to thank Sharnel for giving our readers an insight of her life and business and we look forward to seeing more of her stunning work in the future. Make sure you visit Sharnel's website and blog for more inspirational party ideas and more. xx
