Author Interview with Fifi O'Neill

April 25, 2011  by Fifi Flowers

If you love magazines featuring quaint cottages and romantic interiors you probably recognize Fifi's name. For the past 25 years Fifi has been a freelance writer and photos stylist for a number of national publications such as Coastal Living, Creative Home, Quick & Easy Decorating, Windows & Walls, Home Companion, Style, Romantic Country, Cottage Style, Country Living and more. Fifi also has a FABuLOUS blog called Chez Fifi.

This Fifi (Flowers) was delighted that Fifi (O'Neill)... ma sœur Fifi would do an interview for Reading is Fashionable...


Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Paris. France.

Tell us your latest news?

I am in the process of creating a line of clothes and home accessories.

What inspired you to create your design book?

Romantic Prairie Style is much more than a decorating book, it's a lifestyle and it is that very lifestyle that inspired the book.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

Actually, the answer to this question happens to be in the introduction of my book. I think it says it all. "Honest materials, artisanal goods and time-honored objects are once again valued and create homes, not just shelters. The lessons learned come together in the celebration of a wholesome life. Now, we look back to yesteryears because  to understand the past is to secure the future. We embrace the present hence fostering stewardship of the land. The authenticity, poesy and healing qualities inherent to this sustainable lifestyle define Prairie Style. Traditions and preservation are its heart. The nobility of the land and the fragility of our heritage are its soul. The spirit of prairie style drifts eternal in the romance of nurturing interiors and the abundant beauty of nature. "

What books have influenced your life most?

As far as design books go I have always loved the work of British designer Christina Strutt (Cabbages & Roses) and also Atlanta Bartlett.

What are your current projects?

I am working on book 2 and the product lines.

Do you see writing as a career?

I have been writing for 25 years so, yes, I would say it is my career.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your design book?

I would add food (recipes) to the mix.

Do you have to travel much concerning your book(s)?

Yes, shooting for the book takes extensive travel but getting to meet all the people is well worth the challenges caused by bad weather and flight delays, not to mention long lines at airports.

Who designed the covers?

Book covers are decided by the book designer (book designer is the person who does all the layouts for the books) and the publisher. And, in the case of my book, they were also kind enough to ask for my opinion. We all agreed on the photo on the final cover because it represents the beauty and simplicity of Romantic Prairies Style.

Did you learn anything from creating your book and what was it?

Through the process of researching the homes and locations for the book I found out that I was on the right track because so many people live that lifestyle. One of the hardest thing to do was to select the homes from the great number of possibilities. The other thing was that, after shooting all the homes--from one end of the country to the other-- I only had 3 weeks to write the book.


Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Style is a personal thing and even if you prefer a specific style you can make it personal. For instance, think of it as a hair style and/or color: it can be short, medium or long. You can add highlights or low lights to you hair. It can be straight, wavy or curly. The same variations apply to design. What that means is that YOU can make your style YOURS by adding this or that to the original concept. That's what sets you apart and shows your originality. Nothing is set in stone. Go for it!

 Merci Beaucoup for a LOVELY interview Fifi!!!
YOU can purchase Romantic Prairie Style HERE
anddddd
YOU can WIN this Fifi Flowers Handpainted bookmark inspired by
a photo in Fifi O'Neill's book...

front and back of bookmark

Leave a Comment and you will be entered to WIN!!!
Deadline to WIN is Monday, May 2, 2011 @ NOON California time
Bonne Chance!!!


GIVEAWAY CLOSED