Tuesday, January 25, 2011

The Classy Colourful Cobi Ladner

I have to start off by saying I don't really know Cobi Ladner, but I feel like I do. Well I actually did see Cobi once at a mutual friend's funeral - from a distance.  I'm terrible at recognizing people so it was my husband who pointed her out.  She is quite distinctive, being tall with gorgeous red hair.  However, even though I've never spoken to her I feel like I know her well.

I first met Cobi when I began reading her editorial pages in the Canadian House and Home magazine which she was the editor of for more than fifteen years.  The editorial page was the first thing I read when the magazine arrived each month and I loved reading them.  Cobi had a way of making me feel like it was a chat over a cup of tea and always talked about things that I could totally relate to. 
 
 
In 2008 Cobi resigned as editor of Canadian House and Home after the sudden death of her much loved, much admired father.  She took some time to re-focus and begin some new adventures.  One of the first things she did was start her lovely blog Cobistyle.  She used her unique first name as an acronym to mean Collection of Beautiful Ideas and that is just what her blog is. 
 
 
Cobi has also made numerous appearances in magazines and on TV shows, including regularly appearing on the Stephen and Chris Show.  A woman of diverse talents, she also has written a children's book.

Just before Christmas I noticed that she was the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) Lifestyle Contributor.  You have to realize that I have an unhealthy obsession with the LCBO advertising flyers because they are just so beautifully done.  The photography is exceptional and they have a wonderful sense of style making it a natural place for Cobi to contribute.


And just so you can see why I'm obsessed with something designed to sell beer, wine, and alcohol, here is the spread they had for a modern Christmas dinner. I have no idea if this is Cobi's doing or not as they don't specifically credit the photos, ideas, or text, but I adore it.


I just read recently that Cobi has a new venture that she is launching next month.  She is coming out with her own products in four categories -
  • upholstered furniture
  • decorative accessories
  • upholstery fabric for indoors and out
  • ready-to-wear drapery with coordinated cushions.
I'm looking forward to seeing what she has come up with.  I can say without even having seen the products that they will be gorgeous, tasteful, and totally drool-worthy, because that's just how Cobi is.

Here are a few reasons to keep your eye on her:

1)  She loves vibrant colours and isn't afraid to use them in decorating or dressing.


2)  She has the most amazing kitchen - check out those shelves full of dishes, the skylight with a chandelier, the beadboard ceiling, and the bank of windows with sweet floral drapes.




3)  She has impeccable taste and is able to make a home both stylish and family and pet friendly.



4)  She isn't afraid to follow her heart and make drastic changes in her career.


You go Cobi!

(All photos used with kind permission from Cobistyle with the exception of the LCBO catalogue which are from my very own camera. )

13 comments:

  1. I love Cobi! In fact, I enjoyed Cdn House & Home mag much more when she was editor (but I still love it =). I have Cobi's kitchen in my design inspiration binder. She's one classy lady!

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  2. Thanks so much for the great introduction. I had not heard of Cobi.

    Fondly,
    Glenda

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  3. I love Cobi too and I used to read her column first in each issue of H & H too. I never knew why she left H & H so suddenly and I really miss her column. I loved the cottage she did in PEI too! Super terrific post!! Angie xo

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  4. thanks so much for introducing us to Cobi. Her blog is now on my favorites list. A woman with great talent.

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  5. I have to confess, I've never heard of her! I don't know why that is, either. I LOVE what I see, though. Her kitchen is like a dream!

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  6. I loved reading her editor's column, too. I will never forget the article on her beautiful backyard pool. She always seems so real.

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  7. I just saw her on Steven and Chris today - and that kitchen! That was the first time I heard of her. I will be watching for her now.

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  8. Great post about Cobi. I've met Cobi a few times and she is just as she appears... down to earth, friendly, and colourful. Its inspiring to see where this transition has taken her. Her products look fabulous. So bright and fresh!

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  9. This is the first I've ever heard of Cobi. I do like her style, and her kitchen is my dream kitchen! I love the shelves, wall of windows, chandelier, it is GORGEOUS! Thanks for this post, Grace! I will check-out her blog sometime this week :D

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  10. I went and heard Cobi speak last year and I always enjoyed her editorials in H&H. She mentioned a product line that she was working on and I wondered when it would be launched. Can't wait to finally see the products.

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  11. OH my goodness! Her kitchen is gorgeous. She really is inspirational thank you for posting!

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  12. Thanks for keeping us on top of it! I hadn't heard of Cobi, but I'm loving all of the photos you posted so I can't wait to find out more.

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  13. I followed along with her as Editor of H&H...didn't realize what she had gone on to do. Checking out her blog now. Thanks!

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