I was so happy when Jen & Megan walked into my shop with these adorable necklaces. They are so sweet and a special treat for all the little girls in our lives. Both Jen and Megan are new moms living here on the Central Coast. Their special collection of necklaces are now here at the boutique just in time for Easter!
How To Design Around 11 Soccer Balls...
What an amazingly gorgeous, sunny day! After all the rain, the sun feels so good. The hills are green and the ocean so blue...ahhh...love the Central Coast. I'm looking forward to the long weekend to catch up on the garden and to do some delicious Valentine cooking....of course, that will be after the soccer tournaments...ha, life...
I took this photo of my Mod Moroccan Collection on my front porch, that is, after I picked up, and I counted, 11 soccer balls in my courtyard! What the hec?
I have this collection in my window now next to the new jammies from Pine Cone Hill. This is their Mandarin Collection. So pretty!
Just a reminder...Give Away ends tomorrow the 13th! Enjoy the sunshine everyone!
Give Away Starts Today, Feb 2, 2010!
Just because I put so much info on the prior post, I want to recap that all Sienna Grace Ming Shard Necklaces have been marked way down and we are offering an additional 20% Off of that price and also donating 20% of the overall sale to the Red Cross Haiti relief. Also, just comment on my blog with a creative Valentine idea and you'll be entered to win this gorgeous necklace! Give Away ends Feb 12th! 
That Time Of Year Again!
Well it's that time of year again! Three daughters and this is my (well, I cleaned up the glue) third and final Mission Project...I'm pretty proud of this one that Bill and Chyna made because it's 100% made from recycled goods.
I also want to let you know that the 6th Grade art project that I did a couple months ago is now available as a set of 6 greeting cards. Central Coast Printing was really lovely to donate the labor to print these. All of the proceeds will go towards raising money for the 6th grade Science Camp this spring. Available at my boutique!
Last of all and best of all...I'm gearing up for another fantastic blogging Give Away! It starts Feb. 1st so be sure to come back and check it out!!! It's a good one I promise!
What A Yummy Stocking Stuffer!
Oh boy...I've been away a while. It's been sooooooo busy and I can't believe the holidays are HERE! This weekend, in between the AYSO Soccer Playoff games, I will be setting up for the Holidays at home and at the boutique! I have lots of really exciting new products and designs I can't wait to share with you! You'll have to check out my window!!! I'll post pics here in a few days. I've also stocked up on great gifts under $25 like these...I just got in these adorable cupcake necklaces in from an new designer in California. Only $12...a pretty delicious gift, don't you think?
Fantastic Friday!
Another Fantastic Friday making art with kids! So this is kind of my little contribution to my daughter's school and it has been so much fun for me. Last week I did Noodle Portraits with 4th graders and today it was a collective painting with 31 very talented 6th graders! I wanted a symbol that would be inspirational. I wanted the kids to understand that we as individuals are just one piece of the puzzle, but when we work together we can create something much bigger than ourselves. It only works if everyone participates and, Wow!, did they! They didn't know what they were painting, they just knew they were painting a piece of the puzzle. At the end I asked them, "What would make the world a perfect place?" They all said "Peace"....well, there you go. :-) BTW this painting will be mounted and up for auction at the school bbq to raise money for the 6th Graders Science Camp! I know I will be bidding on it!
On another tidbit of fun news, I was really flattered to have my Personalized Wedding Pillows featured on DIY Bride as a Friday Fab Find! How cool is that? You can read this great Blog and get all kinds of ideas and resources for planning your own Do It Yourself Wedding.
Have a great weekend everyone...do something creative!
Print & Pattern! Wow! Thank you!
It's been so intense lately balancing multiple design jobs, soccer practices, homework (uggg! where did summer go?) and just life in general, that I allowed myself to take a little break today and read some of my favorite blogs...when...OMG! I saw that I had a lovely write up on Print and Pattern!!! Thank you so much! I am humbled to be on the pages of some of my favorite Surface Designers out there! This blog is so inspiring I feel so grateful to have been mentioned! Thank you, thank you, Print & Pattern!
All Kinds Of Great News & My First GIVE-AWAY!!! Starts Monday, Ends Friday!
So you all have next Friday, July 31st, from 5:00-8:00 pm, marked on your i phones & blackberrys...right??? Why, you ask? Because I am throwing a big old party at the boutique to CELEBRATE the launch of my first Limited Edition Fabric & Pillow Collection as well as a new online shopping site!!! but NOT ONLY THAT!! Starting this Monday, Lindsey from The Pleated Poppy and I are doing a fantastic Give Away on our blogs... All you have to do is comment on our blogs and you will be entered to WIN!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAnd....if you're not so tech savvy, you can Win a separate Give Away that night at the party too...all you have to do is Show Up with a Smile! And while I'm on the subject of this fun, summer shin dig, I am so excited to share with you that Amy from Amy Bakes Cupcakes and The Peach will be here serving her delicious CUPCAKES!!! Now that alone is worth coming....have you seen this talented gal? She's featured in this months Live Artfully magazine...ahhhhhhhhhhh...this is going to be a fabulous night! I sincerely hope to see you there!
The Pleated Poppy Now At The Boutique!
They're here, they're here! Yay! Finally my new fabrics are here! Over the next few weeks I'll be changing the look of things around here, and launching a new shopping site that will also be full of inspirational DIY projects. Which leads me to a wonderful new person in my life, and a party, and a big give-away for you.... I have been so blessed to have met Lindsey Cheney of The Pleated Poppy. Not only am I very fortunate to showcase her wonderful work at my boutique, we have also teamed up to do something fun for all of you. So Save the Date, July 31st, for a Big Party at the Boutique to celebrate all the new updates! But don't worry, if you can't make it to the boutique, we will be doing a virtual give-away! My fabrics and Lindsey's great products, put together just for you! Make sure to check back often for updates!!!
I also want to thank Lindsey for the lovely post on her site. It has been such a pleasure to have her very special product in my boutique!!! Lindsey makes adorable Posies which have been featured on many sites, as well as some really great crayon rolls, (wish I had those when my girls were little!) note book covers, pouches, and so much more, and my favorite are her super hero capes! Check this talented lady out, she's amazing!
Pretty Little Things At The Boutique!
It's almost Easter and the Easter Bunny has dropped off some Pretty Little Things at the boutique! I'm all stocked up with some lovely little treats and gifts for the ones you love. From beautiful hand glitter eggs from JenniB Originals to new diffusers from LaLavande, France! Lots of unique and hand made baby gifts too...a little something for everyone...and check out my groovy Purple window with yummy linens from Bliss Living. And... here's something fun just for you! Just mention this blog entry and receive 30% OFF all Christy Bath Towels, Robes and Beach Towels!!!
Supporting Indie Artists!
When I opened my little boutique two years ago little did I know I would meet so many talented and wonderful people. You may not know that a big part of my mission is to not only bring my art into the world, but to help other artists SHINE! I have done this by having quarterly Trunk Shows promoting and featuring them and carrying many local Indie Artists in my little shop....but my little mind has been tinkering at the idea of growing this mission statement ecspecially in times like these where I really believe we are going back to the day of helping one another, one friend, one neighbor, one human being at a time with one-on-one conversations and support....BUT - more to come on that as it unfolds. Until then, I want to share with you two amazing jewelry designers who are here at my shop just in time for Valentine's Day! Cindy Arnet of Sienna Grace has new, delicate designs and more of her one her one-of-a-kind necklaces made with vintage pottery pieces and semi-precious stones.
I just met Karyn Seibert of "Message On A Bottle" when she came in shopping one day. Karyn has a unique style of buying jewelry, some vintage, some new, and re-inventing them with her own unique style. Of course I loved her crowns! She also has some beautiful cuffs here that are so unique and quite the rage right now, especially if you watch The Real Housewives Of Orange County (except hers are priced great)!
It's Shopping Time! 15% Off!!!
OK..... if you're like me you've done a little shopping but now you're feeling the panic of it being...OMG 9 days until Christmas! I want to share with you that I have some really lovely gifts at the Boutique for all budgets. I have lots of little gifts anywhere from Shea Butter French Soaps (the perfect Hostess or Teacher Gift) to delicious Soy Candles and Travel Tins. I have snuggley Blankets from $20 on up and they're not just for babies! Of course we have everything Pine Cone Hill, from their wonderful Cotton & Willow Knit Jammies to their Yummy Bathrobes. I have new lines too....there is a whole lot of goodies in this tiny little shop so I hope you'll stop by! By The Way...just mention that you read this blog entry or that you received my email and you'll automatically receive 15% OFF your entire purchase until January 1, 2009! (Excludes commissioned items.) Woohoo! Happy Shopping!
Thank You!
Thank you, thank you, thank you…is all I have to say!
Sunday morning I went down to my boutique, early, to set up for my 2nd Anniversary Party. As I looked around I got a little teary eyed (typical for me) but this particular time it was with gratitude. Two years ago, I had a small vision of opening a little boutique where I could do my art and design. In the process of it all I have met many incredibly talented and kind people. It was a moment where I looked around and thought to myself, I feel so blessed to be doing what I love and I am so thankful for everyone’s help and support. It was a scary leap to open a retail location in times that aren’t so ideal, but I have to say it has been the best thing I could have ever done. So thank you everyone who came down to celebrate my Anniversary and those of you who have popped in over the past two years and shared your gifts and stories with me.
Sunday evening was fantastic. Christine was here signing her beautiful book, "Ordinary Sparkling Moments". (She looks pretty cute in one of my new aprons!) It’s such a great gift idea for that person who needs a little inspiration in their lives. I have a dozen or so books here that she has signed, so there is still time to get one for you or as a gift.
Also my friend, Hayley Townley, was here doing a wine tasting of her varietals for Cleavage Creek winery. Hayley is a breast cancer survivor. Each varietal has a different survivor on the bottle and part of the proceeds goes towards research for a cure. You can learn more about this great vino here.
2nd Anniversary Party & You're Invited!
It's really been amazing how fast two years have gone by since opening the boutique. I am so blessed to have met some incredible people throughout this journey. I am deeply grateful for all the support I have received and for all the wonderful friendships I have made. This is my opportunity to thank *you*, so I'm throwing a party! My incredibly creative and talented friend, Christine Mason-Miller, will be at the party signing her beautiful, new book, "Ordinary Sparkling Moments". Christine is one of those people who changed my life. Her constant support and guidance is a gift I will always cherish.
All the merchants will also be open as it is our Christmas In The Village. It's a great time to come down and get a jump start on some shopping while enjoying many festivities. I will have special offers that afternoon and lots of surprise treats. Most of all, I want to say Thank You, for embracing this little vision of mine.
Also, the new Live Artfully Magazine is out. (FYI...A subscription is a fantastic gift idea!!!) I have a fun article in it and there are tons of recipes. This is Jenny's Cook Book Issue and it doesn't disappoint!
My new fabrics are here too...just so much to check out....so come on bye! This Sunday, December 7th, 4:00 - 8:00pm! Happy Holidays!!!
Christmas Parade Sunday!
Tomorrow night, Sunday November 30th, just about the cutest, little Christmas Parade you'll ever see will be going through the Village. It starts at 5:00 pm...Join me and my family for hot chocolate and a fun, festive time at the boutique. Don't forget to bring a chair! After the parade you can head over to the Klondike parking lot for a Free Showing of....my favorite movie of all time..."It's A Wonderful Life!" And don't forget my Anniversary Party the following Sunday, December 7th at 4:00! Happy Weekend!
Home Tour This Sunday!
This Sunday is the Central Coast Home Tour. It is a fundraiser for the Old Mission School. Four beautiful homes will be open from 10:00 - 4:00 pm, November 23rd. I will be a vendor at the Newton home and proceeds from my sales that day will go towards the school, plus you'll be the first to see all my new fabrics and products! My good friends, Stephen and Todd, will also have their home on tour. Their home is very fun! It's a great cause and a fantastic way to spend a gorgeous Sunday afternoon. Click here for ticket information! Newton Home below.
Eat Your Dessert!
Have you ever had a dream that you were working on for a very long time and then woke up one day and saw the dream sitting right in front of you? I had no idea that when I embarked on my journey into textile design that it would be such an educational and fun experience! Today a shipment of my fabrics arrived at my little boutique and I literally got tears in my eyes. I am very proud to finally be able to launch my new product line, "Dessert" What Every New Mom Craves! "Dessert" is a product line of little lovies, baby blankets, tote bags, aprons, and home accessories....all sewn by local moms right here on the Central Coast of California. That's right, Made in The Fantastic USA baby! :-) If you are local and going to the Home Tour, Nov. 23rd, you will be the first to see my new line! If not, check out my boutique the day after! For now, you will only be able to purchase "Dessert" at my store and soon on my website. Keeping it exclusive, custom, and unique.
A very special Thank You to Jenni B for all her amazing faux food creations and for her very lovely write up on the boutique! You will see Jenni's creations along side my new line!
Trick-Or-Treating & Holiday Open House In The Village!
Just a reminder that this Friday from 3:00-5:00, the Village will be hosting Trick or Treating! I'd love to see you!
Also, save the date, next Thursday evening, November 6th! The stores in the Village will be open late and many of them offering great discounts! I'll be offering 20% Off your purchase made during those 3 hours!!
It's Spa Time!
OK, I admit it...I took a little time off after a few crazy, busy weeks. Our first Summer Sale at the boutique was a smashing hit. Throughout the year I do several bedding displays and when I'm done, you guys win! All the display bedding has sold and several other goodies too. The boutique now has a whole new look and lots of new product. We're pretty happy to say we carry some of the most beautiful bedding lines out there, from Bella Notte Linens, Pine Cone Hill, to Bliss Living, House, Inc., Designer's Guild and many more for every price range....but only the best in design. ;-)
I have also branched out into some new textiles and now carry 100% Cotton Spa Bathrobes & Towels. Many of you asked for them. Of course I had to go some Spas to actually find the best...(Side Note: The Spa at Trilogy in Nipomo is Fantastic!) I'm pretty happy with what I've found. These robes are divine and give you that wonderful Spa Experience at home! Stop by and check out our new look!!!
1st Annual Summer Sale! July 3rd, 4th, 5th!
There's a first time for everything and this is my First Annual Summer Sale! The truth is I just bought into 4 new fantastic lines and have some lovely new products coming into the boutique...the problem is, THIS IS A TEENY TINY STORE! Those of you who have been here know what I'm talking about! :-) So it's time to have a Sale! For three days only, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 11:00-5:00, everything in the store will be 20% OFF! Some items, as much as 40% OFF! After the Sale, I'll be moving things around quite a bit and giving a new look to my little jewel box so you'll have to come back and check out the new stuff too!!! So Save The Date & I'll Look Forward To Seeing You There! (just a little disclaimer - the sale will not include any of the artist that I have on commission here - we want to support the arts - right? and the sale will not be on any custom orders, only items In Stock and on the floor).
