Gift Guide 2015: Girlfriends

I love shopping for my friends—I basically just buy them something I want in their personal style—easy, right? But if you’re feeling like this is the year to pick up something a little different, I’ve got some ideas for you!

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ALL MONOGRAMMED EVERYTHING! Whether it’s your sorority sister or favorite southern belle (I know, total stereotypes, but they do just love monogrammed things!), personalized goodies go a long way this time of year. Less than two weeks left to order stationery, so get in touch soon! Here’s where to find everything: Initial Necklace by Tom Design, Monogram Coaster by 622 press, Stationery Sets by 622 press, Script Stationery by 622 press.

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Then there’s that friend who is always cold. We’ve all got one, we’ve all told her to eat a cheeseburger and all will be well, but since that hasn’t yet happened, you should get her a huge super cozy cowl. I actually wore mine constantly when I worked in an office that kept the AC on well into November in Wisconsin. The unique crochet pattern keeps you warm while staying breathable enough so you don’t get all claustrophobic and hot.

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Making a new house feel like a home can be a challenge. So for a friend that moved this year—especially if it’s a big upgrade from their last place—help cozy up their new spot. Kitchen accessories, artwork and flowers should do the trick! Bonus points if you find out their ideal decorating color scheme. Citrus Coaster set by 622 press, Hand-crocheted dish cloth by 622 press, French 75 original painting by 622 press, Bulb Teapot by Maia Ming Designs, Floral Initial by 622 press.

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And then there’s that friend with the boho style you just can’t seem to nail down. For her, I’ve gathered unique accessories that come with a story. This incredible walnut and brass ring comes all the way from South Africa, courtesy of Zeal Living. It was hand-carved by a local jewelry artist and is sure to become the recipient’s new favorite piece!

I love supporting etsy shop owners—especially those that are just starting out. This gold-rimmed agate pendant and tassle bracelet—which I’ve been lovingly calling a friendship bracelet for grown ups—both come from women-owned shops with less than 20 sales. An order would make their holidays!

Speaking of, an order for one of my new custom floral crowns would make mine! Shown here is the Maxi Crown, but there’s a minimalist version as well (see previous post). They’re only available for custom order at the moment, so get in touch here to order one!

Watercolor Works: Fruit & Flowers

I find that that inspiration comes in waves—for a week or two I’m all about new letterpress projects, the next it’s sewing, and the next it’s drawing.  Recently, I’ve felt inspired to work with watercolors again. I’ve got some top secret ideas for a new product line (stay tuned!) but in the mean time, new original paintings are available in my shop!

pink_magnolia_622P31As always, these lovely vignettes were styled and shot by the incredibly talented Laurels & Stars Photography. pomegranates_P27I’ve also been super busy with design work and have had the opportunity to work some watercolor into a recent logo project! The client hasn’t picked one yet, but I’m rooting for the watercolor!

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Floral Initials

initial_H_7197This project has been on my mind since I first started experimenting with paper flowers. I love letters and I love flowers, so why not combine them? Can’t think of one good reason, huh? Knew it.

Anyway, I started with a template of the letter, cut it out of chipboard, then added 2.5″ tall strips around the edges to make it three-dimensional. I filled the “box” with my handmade crepe-paper flowers, then added some extras and a bit of foliage to fill it out. I’m absolutely in love with the results!

initial_H_7200I made this “H” for a friend, who displays it on her nightstand (her photo is below), but I can also see these initials hanging on a gallery wall, or as the centerpiece of the front table at a wedding! An ampersand is also available! Check them all out here.

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May Snail Mail

I’ve done Card of the Month clubs in the past, and they were always kind of a pain, going to the post office that much. In my new life, it turns out it’s kind of great! I’m at the post office all the time anyway (plus it’s super close to our house), and sending a package every month makes me realize how quickly time is flying by.

One year ago, I was getting ready to tell the owners of my company that I was moving to Bermuda, hoping they would keep me on in some capacity, but not having any idea how that would go. Two years ago, I was on a whirlwind trip to Costa Rica with one of my dearest friends, both of us doing a little soul searching. Three years ago I was finally feeling settled in a new place, in love and happy… the year before that I was in the midst of an ugly, draining divorce. Life is crazy huh?

Anyway, the point of this post was really just to share the fun stuff I sent out in May’s Card Club! I went with a bit of a floral theme because, you know, April showers bring May flowers…. Remember, you can sign up here, or just send me an email.

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