Flora + Fauna

Don't mess with me, Spring.

2009-02-10T12:24:00.003-06:00

Seriously.

Something Blue.

2009-01-22T09:10:00.005-06:00

I found a link the Erin Gallagher's website from another blog that I read, and fell in love with her beautiful jewelry. It is so simple, graceful and pretty! Some of the pieces I love have no way of fitting into my budget, but I thought this one in my birthstone, blue topaz, was lovely - sort of timeless.

I also love these pieces (the not-in-the-budget-framework pieces) - the dainty, feminine chains, the assymetric design, the earthy colors - so nice!

Tired of Winter. Tired of Wardrobe.

2009-01-21T15:15:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you, but these cold, gray days have been really uninspiring for me. I wake up to the dark mornings, and when it's time to get ready for work, the only thing I want is something soft that will keep me warm in my freezing office, and also will hopefully go with my red Keen Stockholm boots that keep my feet safe and dry. Needless to say - I've been defaulting to a lot of black and gray. Which I love! But it is getting a little draining. I work in a creative environment with a lot of freedom in terms of wardrobe - no required pantyhose, denim is allowed (if not encouraged), and even my boss wears blaze orange sneakers. I'm not looking to make any purchases that extreme, but these images from the J.Crew website made me happy and even excited to go shopping. I find their prices a little over the top, but I'm confident I could take these ideas and find better deals elsewhere. Aren't the little pops of color in the shoes and accessories fun?

Art vs. Craft this weekend!

2008-11-26T16:00:00.002-06:00

I plan on supporting my community's crafters and artisans this weekend. Yay for shopping local!

It's been almost 2 months!

2008-11-26T11:11:00.003-06:00

o
ls
I haven't posted since September 29. I have to get back in the groove because the images in my desktop 'inspiration' folder are really piling up. I'll try to do a few a day.

I love each one of these invitation designs for the bold graphic styling and the beautiful hand lettering. Sorry - I don't know where I found these!

Your Lovely Places Blog

2008-09-29T14:28:00.004-05:00

Photos from my recent trip to Colorado with Chris made it on the "Your Lovely Places" blog. Yay! I had a picture up once before as well.

Paper Display

2008-09-26T09:13:00.002-05:00

I love how this designer used paper to create a product display for their storefront. Perfectly fitting for a paper store as well, no?

It's been awhile...

2008-09-25T17:09:00.003-05:00

Here is some of the visual candy that has been collecting on my desktop. Yikes - it's really piled up, so I'll just pick a few faves. Hopefully I can get back into the swing of things! (This post is per my #1 and only blog fan Chris' request) :)

I liked each of these photos for their creative styling. Not only are the lovely products showcased and photographed well, but you can tell a lot of care and thought went into the story the artists wanted to tell with their imagery. The suitcase gives me an idea - creating a doggy-bed with a vintage suitcase and some cool fabric - just have to find a way to secure it so it stays open and doesn't snap shut with Milo inside!

Loving this idea...

2008-07-07T09:28:00.002-05:00

This is so sweet - I think it's actually a wall decal/graphic, but you could make one yourself by just cutting the spines of your favorite magazines. It would be fun and interesting to look at when you have a captive audience (like the bathroom) :)

Little Milwaukee

2008-06-17T08:55:00.002-05:00

I just love it when people come to this city, and love it as much as I do! Although some of this dude's entertainment selections wouldn't be my first choice, I love that he explored a few different neighborhoods and found them equally as good if not better than other cities I admire. Milwaukee truly is a gem, and sometimes I take it for granted and long for something bigger and better - but honestly, it is a wonderful, beautiful, and fun place to live! There's always somewhere new to discover - a great restaurant, a new boutique, even an emerging neighborhood. Those are the bones of any good city, and this one certainly doesn't fall short. Yay for Milwaukee!!!

Thinking about product packaging.

2008-05-23T09:42:00.002-05:00

One of the things I've been thinking about lately is how to creatively package miscellaneous stationery items in a way that is creative, environmentally responsible, and stands out from the crowd. There are so many great ideas out there. I've been going crazy over design*sponge's National Stationery Show coverage this past week (maybe next year I'll actually be able to go?) When I met Grace (of d*s fame) in Chicago a few months ago at the Biz Ladies Meetup, she said that honestly it's kind of unnecessary to attend, as so many blogs and sites have such great coverage, and really do all of the sifting for you. Still - so many paper products - all in one place...sounds sort of heavenly. I know- so dorky! Plus - I get overwhelmed when there is too much selection. But I would just love to see how the booths are styled, how the products are bundled, and personally meet some of the vendors I would potentially be using to stock my shop. Here are just a few cute ideas - I especially love the one with the textile/burlap-ish bag. That's sustainable, right? If you are recycling discarded bags? Love it.

Color Coordination

2008-05-15T09:01:00.003-05:00

I love color coordination. Don't these photographs (found of Susan Gower's Nifty Thrifty Dry Goods via decor8) just make you want to dig? I think I normally first know the color of something I envision or need, and want to hunt from there. That's why I love the search by color feature on etsy, for example. And I love when stores organize their clothing by hue - so easy, so organized, so convenient! Some stores (Forever 21, for starters) - make my head want to explode. Too many items - too little order. I walked past my image in a mirror while shopping with my dear Allison there one time and saw a deep crease embedded in my forehead - shopping like that literally gives me wrinkles! So - I'm making a mental note now; thoughtful, planned store organization. Seems logical.

It's been awhile...

2008-05-14T08:34:00.003-05:00

...so I will just use this opportunity to clear out my inspirational eye-candy folder on my desktop. My good friend Laura and I are talking about sharing a booth at the next upcoming Art vs. Craft show, and since she is working with re-purposed clothing for her end of the deal, I'm thinking a lot about fabric and other vintage materials for a stationery series. I love all of these pieces, by different artists (all found on etsy) - I think it's time to start hitting up the local thrift and vintage shops in town to hunt for some eye-catching fabrics!

Treasures from the weekend...

2008-05-05T21:51:00.002-05:00

The teacups are from Goodwill - I can always find something I 'need' from there. And meet Arnold, Beatrice, and Tom - our new friends who came to add to my already fierce bird obsession. :)

Splashy Storefront

2008-05-02T14:07:00.003-05:00

Although I would rethink the colors and actual design for myself, isn't this a fun, attention grabbing storefront? Very unique and a great way to hide an unsightly exterior. From Henry Road in LA.

Almost forgot this one - which I love!

2008-04-25T09:12:00.002-05:00

And what a sweet family. I love those random typographic letters in the bg - I think I feel the start of a new collection coming on...it's the graphic designer in me. I can't resist letterforms - what a dork!

Some Fun DIY Ideas

2008-04-25T08:47:00.001-05:00

These would all be very cool in a home or in a store setting for a variety of uses. Always with DIY projects I love thinking of how I could use them but revamp for my own preferences/needs. I especially love the wall calender w/photos. So much inspiring stuff out there - yay internet!

Color Palette

2008-04-18T15:49:00.002-05:00

Just thought this was pretty (the deep chocolate brown, pale blue and variety of greens) - wanted to share.

A Little Something for the Graphic Designers.

2008-04-18T15:44:00.002-05:00

Gotta love these Pantone stairs! Perfect for a studio space. (Or my store.) Duh.

Various bits of eye candy.

2008-04-15T15:36:00.002-05:00

I've got to get these up so I can take them off of my desktop! I love each of these rooms and spaces for a variety of reasons. Sheesh - with all of the interiors I collect imagery of, C and I were discussing whether or not I should just go into interior design. Well - I love to look at well designed spaces - not so sure I'd want to actually create them. Might take all the fun away from looking. Hopefully I'll just keep archiving everything here and it will help influence the look and design of my store someday. Anyway - enjoy!

I Heart This Idea

2008-04-09T08:44:00.003-05:00

I couldn't resist. Isn't this bedroom from someone's Parisian loft (sigh) lovely? I was reading The Style Files this morning and saw it - I think the imperfection in the heart and the way the photos line up adds so much character. So sweet! Sometimes it is hard for me to break the mold of lining things up perfectly, making sure everything is nicely matted and framed (so many photos are sitting in boxes or piles because they haven't found a matted frame yet) - I just need to be more whimsical. Do you think Chris would go for the heart idea? Hmmm...maybe a more manly shape.

Seriously?!

2008-03-28T13:28:00.002-05:00

What. Are. These. Shame on you, Urban Outfitters! I cannot believe these even exist. That someone made them and though, "Hey! Maybe I AM a good footwear designer!" And they are $150.00. They look like flip flops crossed with a fencing uniform, wrapped with a broken purse strap my mom might have had in 1984. I bet we'll see them very soon on someone like Mary Kate Olsen. Ugh.

If You're Going, to San Francisco...

2008-03-26T14:44:00.002-05:00

There is nothing really store related about these - I just wanted to share. These are so gorgeous and of my favorite city ever, San Francisco - I'm going to dig through all of the thumbnails when I have more time (ha!) to see if any of them are somewhere I've been in the city - if it's in my budget (ha- ha!) maybe I'll splurge on one...

Location, location, location.

2008-03-14T08:29:00.004-05:00

This is one of the big hangups for me as far as starting my tore. It determines everything! Who the customers are, what they will be hoping to see in the store, environment, overall everything! So needless to say, it's something I think about a lot. Chris and I talked consistently about Bayview - there isn't really anything like the shop I envision on that side of town, and there is so much cool growth going on in the neighborhood. I also think the people that reside there would appreciate the idea behind the store- lots of environmentally friendly products and a unique spin on your typical stationary store. But THEN I saw this listing on craigslist, (I think it's the storefront to the right) - and what's not to love about an Eastside location? I'm practically obsessed anyway with moving back to that area, and this is a really cute little storefront on Oakland Avenue. Lots and lots of pedestrian traffic, and a good mix of ages, cultures, and in general just lots of different people. So I ping pong back and forth and all around Milwaukee thinking where the perfect spot would be because if I don't have the perfect spot, I won't sell a single item, no one will come, I'll go bankrupt, and my head will explode. Welcome to my brain. :)

Nice Package :)

2008-03-10T08:54:00.004-05:00

I couldn't resist that title. But really - aren't these amazing? There is just nothing that compares to gorgeous packaging. I keep a folder on my desktop and collect all sorts of "good design" imagery for inspiration later. It can't hurt and I think it will help me when it comes time to design all of the packaging elements of my store. Someday... (soon?)

I just noticed these are almost all food packaging. I see a trend!

Why Chris Should Let Me Paint Our Bertoia Chair White

2008-03-06T13:34:00.003-06:00

Because look how cool it is! And we have that rug underneath!!!

A Little Bird Told Me...

2008-03-04T09:58:00.002-06:00

It has become apparent that I have a strong affinity for anything having to do with birds. So, needless to say - I think this gift tag from Tiny McSmall is lovely! It combines two of my favorite things - pattern and...birds. It would be nice to have tags like this on the bags in the shop - maybe something that they could reuse on a gift of their own. Passing the beauty on, so to speak.

Welcome, Booker & Harlo!

2008-03-03T15:23:00.004-06:00

The newest of the dog pack! These are so clever and will prevent you doggie owners from being startled awake in the middle of the night when your beloved new friend feels the need to shake it like it's hot, making their tags all clash and clang together. From etsy seller Contrabandstudios. I want one too (and that german above!) Congrats Allison & Kate!

I want to do this!

2008-02-28T15:39:00.002-06:00

I'm sorry - I don't remember where I found this, but I love it! It would take me forever to decide on a quote though - I'll have to start now. Definitely something sleep , rest or peace related I think.

Vintage Card Catalog

2008-02-26T08:34:00.003-06:00

Wouldn't this be a cool way to store extra inventory? The display items could be on top and above it and the extras could be filed below (with other fun goodies stored in random drawers for little suprises and to encourage purchasing on a whim). I'll have to dig through some craigslist postings to see if I can find any of these!

A couple storefronts.

2008-02-26T08:32:00.003-06:00

I always like to collect images of storefronts, just to see what other people are doing. I like the Opalia Flowers sign, and I like the layered textiles hanging in the window in the Kimera picture below. Lovely!

Neat Tags

2008-02-26T08:24:00.004-06:00

Lines & Shapes is a new collaborative project from Lena Corwin and Maria Vettesse - definitely worth checking out. But what I really love are these linen tags on what looks to be a canvas tote bag. I have often thought that it would be really fun to have Flora & Fauna canvas totes - offering shoppers a discount with the purchase of one, and when they bring it in with them to shop on future occasions. Reusable and a fun project (and what essentially becomes free advertising!)

Chalkboard Paint

2008-02-22T10:36:00.002-06:00

This is a fun idea (seen on More Ways to Waste Time, one of my favorite blogs) - chalkboard paint, which apparently you can get anywhere - Home Depot or any other store like that. I've been seeing it on a lot of DIY websites and in shelter magazines as well. I love the use of it in a hallway or entry way - it would be fun to leave notes to your roomates or in my case, husband - things not to forget, quotes, funny doodles or whatever. This would be neat to have in a store where people usually post flyers, etc. - just a fun little touch.

Ho-Ly crap.

2008-02-20T09:52:00.002-06:00

I just found a mosaic maker from Big Huge Labs. It was driving me crazy trying to figure out how everyone in blogland makes these! I just couldn't imagine them creating each one in Photoshop but had no idea it would be called a mosaic. Expect more of these from me. Many more.

(This one is just a test compilation of some photos I enjoy for their color palettes, room design, or styling in general.)

Don't Forget

2008-02-19T08:36:00.003-06:00

To vote in the Wisconsin Primaries today!

I'm sweatin'

2008-02-18T17:25:00.005-06:00

...these huge standing mirrors. (I felt a little funny typing "I'm sweatin" - it definitely sounds better than it reads) - ha! anyway - I love them! Where can I find one that won't cost an arm and a leg? I'll take everything as pictured, please. Both rooms.

Ahh, creative minds.

2008-02-18T17:20:00.003-06:00

One thing I really admire is how people "stage" their product photography. There are so many different ways to do so that can all be very attractive and effective. Here's one I love - the use of vintage type gives this example a level of interest that a straight photograph of the products might not normally have, and I love it! A great idea for any graphic designer shooting portfolio / design pieces. Now I just have to dig out the vintage type pieces Chris and I found in San Francisco...

currently loving...

2008-02-13T12:59:00.003-06:00

...the "mix tape" feature on the kate spade website. just go to "in the studio" and it's over to the left. so far - really good tunes! this is a really fun website to poke around on if you have a few spare minutes (they have valentine's day ecards, too!) if you are like me and you sit at a desk all day, musical variety is of the utmost.

your lovely places

2008-02-12T13:40:00.000-06:00

sometimes i just love how the internet can make the vastness connecting those of us online seem so small. i uploaded a photo to your lovely places and the same day, received an email back complimenting my photo, and telling me they'll let me know when it's up on their blog. your lovely places is such a fun blog - every day they feature different photos from anywhere and everywhere that visitors to their site can submit. it's sort of rewarding to see something of yours somewhere unexpected! mine's up today (a photo from our last trip to washington island), so check it out! yay!

Another lovely invitation

2008-02-06T16:10:00.001-06:00

Something I never thought about but really love, is a beautiful script-only invitation (via Style Me Pretty) - top left image of this very "now" gray and canary yellow inspiration board. I love this - if the bride and groom, paper stock, print quality and envelope option are just right - this would be so elegant and expressive, and unique! I know traditionally wedding invitations were text only - a nice calligraphy-style script - with maybe a flourish or two. But what about with fonts like these (I typed the font name into the samples - from myfonts.com). It becomes so couture and modern, yet keeps a little bit of that tradition alive. And I think what is really working with the sample one are the thin and thick strokes of the letters - it gives the design some depth and texture.

Swooning over...

2008-02-06T16:06:00.000-06:00

This lovely, sweet, romantic, perfect, girly, did I say perfect - table! Couldn't you see this at the entrance of a store, with some product displayed on it? Or as a client collaboration table? Or even the register area? (with a vintage register?) Sigh. The price isn't even all that bad! (And it comes in white, too!)

Some lovely invitations...

2008-02-06T16:00:00.000-06:00

Just a little design eye-candy! These are lovely and inspiring for me when thinking about creating my own custom line of invitations and announcements eventually. Now - if only I could find some free time to get down to business!

Top photo: East Six
Bottom Photo: KenzieKate Invitations

Recently "Noted"

2008-02-01T11:13:00.000-06:00

I just discovered the Google Notebook feature last week - it's such a convenient way to "store" all of my newly discovered links. What I like about it that is different (and better than) bookmarking, is that it saves an image with the link and you can write a note with the "clip". So clever! Google does it again. See above for some neat places I recently recorded in my newly minted notebook.

From top:
ReForm School - Love this print for a great Valentine's day gift!
Village - another good V-day idea
Flight 001 - an awesome store concept for any traveller
Paris J'Taime - okay, not a website but currently my favorite movie. Watch this!

Loving

2008-02-01T11:06:00.000-06:00

I love how this company used a poloroid format to showcase their product (the wall decal) - so cute and cool and sort of a throwback. Take a peek at their website - it's really nice! This is a whole different take to decorating your walls. (Love the saturated fuschia, too).

I can't leave #1 out!

2008-01-28T14:26:00.000-06:00

Chris and I out for Brian's birthday at Kenadee's on Saturday night. (Their website is kinda embarrassing - I actually think I see cellulite on that one girl's leg). *Jenny - please send me the gaggle of leggings picture! :)

2/3

2008-01-28T12:31:00.001-06:00

Two thirds of my boys :)

January Morning Sky

2008-01-28T12:18:00.001-06:00

Lake Michigan provides the backdrop for some of the most beautiful sunrises. Good morning!

Just Bought...

2008-01-25T14:36:00.001-06:00

These most adorable little baby booties from local etsy seller jenniferladd (loving the shop local feature) for a friend who just had her first baby. Yay! If Ralph or Milo were more girly I would consider buying a couple pairs for their little doggy paws just because these are so darn cute. ;)

Store Idea #1,000,002

2008-01-25T13:59:00.000-06:00

Okay, maybe I haven't had that many ideas...yet. But here's one! This article about fusing your plastic bags on etsy is really interesting (and useful if you are like me and have 1,001 plastic bags collected and ready to take a trip to your local plastic bag collection dropoff). How about customers come in with their plastic bags, and with a minimum of 10 bags they get 10% off their purchase. Then, I fuse the bags and make them into products that the store can then sell! (Check out the related items area at the bottom of the article) - kinda interesting, no? Saving the earth, one grocery bag at a time. :)

Great Idea

2008-01-23T14:49:00.000-06:00

Isn't this a brilliant idea? Panels of wallpaper from Ferm Living hung from poster hanging bars - such unique (and easily changeable) artwork! Looks great behind a register too, doesn't it? You could use vintage papers, leftovers from a home project, or whatever! I bet it would work well with wrapping paper too - a nice way to do something inexpensive for particular holidays or seasons. Fun!

SmartCar ForTwo

2008-01-21T10:46:00.000-06:00

This, my friends - will hopefully be mine in 24 months or less!

Go Packers!

2008-01-20T08:48:00.000-06:00

It's like negative one million degrees outside!

Anthropologie in Milwaukee!

2008-01-18T15:20:00.000-06:00

I can't really even begin to tell you how exciting it is to have been able to welcome both Urban Outfitters and Anthropologie to Milwaukee this winter. I stepped into Anthropologie over my lunch break today (opening day) - and could barely contain the squeals. Had I not been shopping alone - well - I wouldn't have even tried but I didn't want to draw too much attention to my sheer, unbridled excitement. I know a lot of other cities already have these stores, and maybe other people don't share in my extremely high level of excitement. But - I work in Milwaukee's Third Ward and in just the past two years have seen such a dramatic change in this area - Anthropologie was almost too much for me to handle. Okay, maybe not. I loved it! I can't afford much in the store but that won't stop me from going in and touching everything and oohing and aahing over things like this $88 sweater I'm dying to get my grubby little hands on. Their home goods are not nearly as pricey as their clothing, so I did manage to pick up the really cute dish towel pictured above that I'm going to turn into a shade for the window on my front door. I also picked up a sweet, old-fashioned perfume bottle that was (already) marked down to about 5 dollars. Hooray for Milwaukee! (We are finally getting some decent shopping in this city!)

Three Potato Four

2008-01-18T08:45:00.000-06:00

I came across these really cool boxes via Oh Joy! this morning - they're available at Three Potato Four - I think the styling of the photograph is really cool. This would probably be a relatively simple (and cheap) DIY and would be great for displaying sale paper stock, etc. You could even price the contents according to the number box (i.e. Items in Box 1 - 50% off - etc.) Just a fun little idea. Now - where to hunt for old boxes? What would these originally have held- like - milk jugs or something? :)

*On a side note - apparently, the bird vases (also from TPF) are pigeons - but Allison - wouldn't you agree they look more like penguins? :) Thought you'd enjoy.

Display idea

2008-01-16T16:33:00.000-06:00

These serving platters from s howlifestyle.com would be a really great collection to own for displaying specialty items - like a really beautiful piece from a personalized stationary set, a unique card or an individual print. Just something to call out and display a special item from the rest of the noise. I see them stacked into columns of varying heights - beautiful! And of course, while browsing their website I came across these beautiful nesting bowls as well. Enjoy!

I wanna go to Stockholm.

2008-01-11T16:49:00.001-06:00

Stockholm, originally uploaded by Peter Gutierrez.

And Chris - FYI - it is the CAPITOL of SWEDEN. :) Wanna go?

laundry day?

2008-01-11T15:38:00.000-06:00

I enjoy doing laundry. Not the folding - no no. But for some reason I like the rest of it - maybe it is just because it's easy (for most of us). I can kind of just float through it, and let my mind wander. It gets to wander a lot, probably because I do laundry so infrequently that I have to invest a big chunk of time once I finally get around to it. So, I'm thinking...wouldn't it be a really fun project to pimp my laundry area out? It's different that doing a more important room in the house - I think it would actually be more fun - less thought involved - less stressing over expenses. I could get pretty creative (one the cheap!), especially with the help of these fun pictures. I feel a weekend project coming on! (Look at the utility sink skirt- ahhh!)

saturday with Kicky and Buckaroo

2008-01-11T15:13:00.001-06:00

saturday with Kicky and Buckaroo, originally uploaded by The 10 cent designer.

Cool photo from flickr. Loving the "blog this" feature! Expect to see much much MUCH more from flickr. :)

January Rain

2008-01-08T08:19:00.000-06:00

A good listen for a rainy Tuesday in January - by one of my favorite favorites, David Gray.

someone else's store

2008-01-07T11:41:00.000-06:00

have a look at one element of another stationary store - i like the handmade quality of their pricing method. cute!

color palette for a rainy monday

2008-01-07T11:38:00.000-06:00

I think this is such a restful, peaceful color palette - good inspiration for a bedroom or any other place needing a little more calm.

Cool Sign

2008-01-04T14:05:00.001-06:00

There's something interesting about this storefront sign. I'm filing it into my digital memory right now.

Live Wire Farm

2008-01-04T14:00:00.000-06:00

I'm loving these beautiful pieces from Live Wire Farm. I checked out their website a few months back to drool over their gorgeous wood rings (I just re-drooled over them today, as a matter of fact).

The hooks, shelf posts and other bits would be a lovely way to bring some of the outside in, and incorporate some earthiness into your decor. I love the styling of the product photography, as well!

Winter White

2008-01-04T13:57:00.000-06:00

These gorgeous rooms are so inspiring to me. I love all of the variations of white and gray, infused with bits of color here and there. Totally unlike how my house is decorated, but in my mind these describe my ideal style. Someday - but for now our fifties ranch just doesn't fit the dream. I guess I need an old farmhouse to lovingly restore.

Oh, to be a bride again!

2008-01-04T13:53:00.000-06:00

I'm waiting for my wedding fixation to end, but I just don't think it's in the cards, when there are so many sweet and romantic gowns from J.Crew to swoon over. Aren't these so perfect? I love how simple they are, how organic - yet romantic and lovely at the same time. Barefoot wedding in a forest clearing? Sounds perfectly fitting.

Happy, Happy Christmas!

2007-12-21T13:57:00.000-06:00

God bless you and keep you and your family safe during the Christmas and New Year's holidays!

missing the sunny days

2007-12-21T09:04:00.000-06:00

Considering it is so gray and melty right now, I'm really missing days like this... (Chris (in my favorite type of outfit- cutoff shorts and flip flops) and Ralph at Urban Playground, and the South Shore Farmer's Market)

diy invites

2007-12-20T17:16:00.001-06:00

Athough I doubt everybody could diy these invites, they are quite lovely. I love when weddings have well coordinated stationary, favors, and assorted other fun surprises. I know not all of the guests notice - but the ones that do? They make it all worthwhile.

A little something beautfiul

2007-12-19T10:43:00.000-06:00

I love these colors and the creative idea of utilizing someplace so simple for firewood storage. This is almost like looking at a still-life. I wish I needed to store firewood! Still dreaming of a wood-burning fireplace. Someday...

sometimes...

2007-12-19T10:40:00.000-06:00

you stumble upon something and it brings someone to mind immediately. I know just who I'll be purchasing this sweet little dish for - a dear friend who needs a little laughter in her life right now. Wouldn't it be perfect for your dresser or bathroom sink - a nice little location to drop your daily rings or earrings in?

I'm really loving...

2007-12-16T16:26:00.001-06:00

this beautiful new store in Oakland, California - called Atomic Garden. I read a quote saying they are a green store, but they don't "shout about" being green. They want their customers to come in and enjoy the store for it's beauty, and buy things because they really love them (and if they just so happen to be helping the planet,well then - bonus!) I love that philosophy. Just BE more green - don't advertise it as the main reason people should come in. I'm already really tired of hearing eco-this, and sustainable-that - not that these messages aren't vitally important. It's phenomenal the way greening our lives has become so - trendy. It's just all over every magazine cover, commercial, product, etc. Let's just do it, and stop saying so much about it!

how I feel about this week

2007-12-14T12:07:00.000-06:00

is it over yet?

Art vs. Craft this past weekend

2007-12-10T10:47:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, Chris and I attended the Art vs. Craft show on Van Buren at the Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center. It was my first time attending the show - don't ask me HOW I did not know about it before, but it was so so so wonderful! All of the vendors were friendly, helpful and super talented. The quality of the goods really made an impression on me - the quality was so high, so well-made and all were unique and fun to browse! I get really spazzy when I am surrounded by lots of good selection. Chris is my witness - I almost fell down the stairs right when we walked in I was so excited. If I could scoop up all of the great artists and crafters that were there, and drop them right into my store, I certainly would! I collected lots of business cards (and some goodies for Christmas presents as well) - and am putting that into my stock-pile of potential vendors for Flora + Fauna! (sorry for the crappy photo - the lighting and my camera were not getting along).

Happy Friday Lunch (Jenny)!

2007-12-07T08:51:00.001-06:00

I wanted to put a picture of you rocking out last weekend but they are already on my computer at home, so this will have to do. Just wanted to give you a shout out during your lunch break today (if you happen to be reading this!). Wanna go bowling tomorrow night? :)

Hand Lettering

2007-12-06T09:23:00.001-06:00

I am really enjoying this logo - I can't tell if it is hand-lettered or not - these days it could be a typeface. But isn't it sweet? I contacted a woman a few months back to ask her if she would be interested in collaborating on a logo project for Flora and Fauna. She was so sweet and agreed to work with me. I absolutely love her style - check out her website for samples. It is so unique and amazing.

Great Idea

2007-12-06T09:19:00.000-06:00

I love love love this creative idea from Burnham Design. She creates concept boards for her clients, and it looks like (although it's hard to tell from the press pictures) - she either files for herself and gives to them these amazing boxes filled with swatches, mood boards, etc. What a neat idea for a wedding stationary set for a bride. I'll have to file this into the wedding section of my brain.

Packaging Idea

2007-12-06T09:16:00.000-06:00

More packaging talk. I love package design - It is an area of design that so many people neglect - for budget reasons, or lack of interest, or whatever - it is so important and can be so expressive! I believe this image is actually individual adhesive wall decals (sorry - I don't know where I found it so I can't give you a link) but I love the idea of pattern within pattern - across bags, gift boxes, you name it. Isn't it lovely?

Speaking of pink...

2007-12-06T09:12:00.001-06:00

I already purchased this to hang somewhere near the register. (The future - register, that is). I can honestly see this store of mine in my mind already. I don't know when it's going to happen - five months - five years? But I know it will. I love the vague expression here - "For Like Ever". I saw this in Domino magazine and had to find it! Now it's rolled up in a poster tube in my closet, waiting for a frame and a new home!

Display idea?

2007-12-06T08:56:00.000-06:00

I'm going to need to start a collection of just display ideas for products - window designs, styling of displays throughout the store, etc. I love this for a fall concept - the criss-crossing ribbons with lovely little notes tucked throughout. So sweet! Weddings are such collections of inspiration for me. There are some many creative ideas out there!

Image from michelleragoltd.com.

Chair Love

2007-12-06T08:51:00.000-06:00

Chris and I love chairs. We would fill our home with nothing but chairs if we could. Modern, antique, retro, classic - you name it. If it is even remotely interesting, we will be drawn to it. I'm not sure where this love of chairs stems from, all I know is that I am into this one right now. Although I'm sure Chris would appreciate it, it might be a little too girly for him. Perfect for my store though, right? If I had to name it, it would be called Love. I have a feeling this future store of mine is going to be an explosion of femininity, just so I will be able to get all of the pink out of my system.

Pieces

2007-12-06T08:43:00.000-06:00

There used to be a really cool store here in Milwaukee called Pieces, which closed right before my wedding last summer. Lucky for me everything in the store was hugely discounted and I profited from their loss. (Hmmm...saying that makes me feel a little bad...) Anyway! There is another store named Pieces in the Atlanta area (I wonder if there is any connection?) and think the styling of the store is so wonderful, and I absolutely love that the owner describes herself as an"editor" when selecting pieces to sell. That's a good thing to keep in mind when selecting product - to edit your choices and stick to your audience, similar to the way a magazine would. And, I love her packaging. So simple and chic! (And probably cheap!)

Back to School!

2007-11-30T16:35:00.000-06:00

Here's the description for the first workshop I'm going to take. I was going to do it tomorrow morning, but I think with everything going on this weekend I might instead go to the next one offered (it's a Tuesday night - works better for me!)

Exploring Entrepreneurship (so hard to spell!): "Want to know what it takes to start a business and if this might be the right move for you? Looking for resources to help you build on an idea for a business? Start with this session on exploring entrepreneurship offered at convenient locations around the city. We will give you the tools to assess yourself and your idea, and point you toward the resources you will need to turn your idea into a business concept. This two-hour session is your starting point, enroll now."

Okay! I love school.

Art vs. Craft

2007-11-30T16:22:00.000-06:00

I can't wait to go to this on December 8th! Hopefully I can do the majority of my Christmas shopping there. I will feel so good about supporting local and/or independent artists! (And, I can scout vendors for the store!)

Couture Maps

2007-11-30T08:58:00.000-06:00

Look at these lovely custom maps by Stephannie Barba. They would be an amazing addition to any wedding stationary or party invitation, wouldn't they? This is definitely something to keep in mind for the custom wedding invitation design of Flora and Fauna. They are frame-worthy, and would make such special keepsakes after everything is all said and done! Now, the hunt for a talented illustrator begins...

For the Birds...

2007-11-29T08:23:00.000-06:00

Okay, this has to be my last bird post for awhile but I couldn't resist. My friend Amy sent me this wonderful link today for a jewelry stand at pottery barn (only $19!) She must have somehow noticed my freakish attraction to all things bird-related...It's kind of like when I was age 0-15 how I focused entirely too much of my attentions on horses. Hmmm...maybe I should redirect my obsession back to that (I already have a zillion Breyer horses to re-kickoff a collection). But haven't horses come back and gone out again already? I can't keep track. I think it's onto deer now...

Anyway, I think I'm going to have to carry a jewelry section at Flora and Fauna just so I can look at all of these wonderful things on my own time!

Lovely Color Palette

2007-11-28T16:48:00.001-06:00

This inspiration board was featured today on Style Me Pretty. I know it is for a wedding but there is something so soothing and yet stunningly beautiful about the colors in those flowers. I will definitely keep this in mind for shop décor. I feel so inconsistent with the styles I like -cottage, modern, elegant, you name it. If it's unique and well-styled, I'm bound to want to do that. Maybe I'll have to think more about doing the styling along the lines of Rose and Radish, in San Francisco. They periodically change their entire store out, like a gallery. It's one way to keep clients coming, I suppose! (But so much work!) Oy.

tweet tweet (so sweet)

2007-11-28T16:45:00.000-06:00

I can't even begin to determine which of these I love more. I think I prefer the more asymmetric styles but the nest is so darn cute! From etsy seller luxe deluxe.

love this -

2007-11-27T10:27:00.001-06:00

chest of drawers from Decades by WIS design . it's so beautiful and creative! It would be great for stowing small merchandise, gift tags, etc. I thought about it a few weeks back while shopping at a flea market in IL, but who will sell you just one drawer to obtain enough for a collection? And then there's the matter of building the actual piece to hold all said drawers. Oh well - I'll just have to enjoy looking at this one for now!

Inspiring Workspace

2007-11-27T10:20:00.000-06:00

I just love the collection of found objects and assorted miscellaneous items found in the workspace of Holly Waterfield's office space in the West Village at her boutique, Camp. I saw this photo on decor8 this morning, but it was also featured in domino a few issues back (sorry - not exactly sure when). Actually, Camp is a great inspiration for me - if I remember the article correctly, Holly had the idea for the store for a long time and one day was walking down the street, saw the perfect location and snatched it up - and thus began Camp! I love how it sort of all fell into place for her and she was kind of tossed right into it all. (My cousin was just telling me last night that the more prepared I am up front, the more likely something like that could happen for me. Hmmm...)

Monday Already?

2007-11-26T08:36:00.000-06:00

I hope your Thanksgiving was lovely - mine was quite nice, although always time with the family goes too quickly! I got in this morning and found an email in my inbox with these lovely wrapping papers and notecards (and other neat gifts on the website) from Pop Ink (by French Paper). They have some really great patterned options, and I can't help but love the wood paneled one. It's so 1970's rec-room!

Okay, I'm addicted.

2007-11-21T11:44:00.000-06:00

Just one more post - the thanksgiving one was going to be my last but then I was sending a friend the link the j. crew's wedding shop and saw these precious dresses. They have pockets! I am a sucker for dresses with pockets. I think they look amazing as a colorful group (love the mismatched/yet somehow matching shoes), but wouldn't they also be fun one at a time for the summertime? Ahhh. I miss it already!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-21T11:17:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving - I plan on spending the next few days surrounded by family and friends. I can't wait! Have a wonderful holiday - may you feel as blessed as I do! Cheers! (photo from getty images)

Two of My Favorite Things

2007-11-21T09:33:00.000-06:00

Marimekko and H&M are apparently joining forces. I just read via one of my favorite blogs, siagrafica, that Marimekko is licensing some of its patterns from the 50's, 60's and 70's to H&M for their 2008 collection. That is so exciting!

Christmas Gift to Myself!

2007-11-21T09:16:00.000-06:00

There are some amazing prints from antigirl that are just marked down (I was considering purchasing one a few weeks ago, full price!) to half (or more) of theie original price. I absolutely love this one, and it's only $20. I can see decorating my entire office/guestroom around this single print, I love it so much!

Domino Design Contest

2007-11-20T15:17:00.001-06:00

Here are some lovely photos from the winner of the domino design contest. One of the great things about *dreaming* about my store is that I can imagine decorating however I want. I can do things that are too feminine for my own house (seeing as there is a male residing there as well)...Or a little bit crazier or more stylized. Not everything "goes" with a fifties ranch! But this I love...or at least parts of it! I love the unexpected color combinations, and the mix of traditional French styling with bursts of really modern colors. Give me a cup of tea and sit me in one of those chairs and I'd be just fine!

Kane County Flea Market

2007-11-20T15:09:00.001-06:00

This is a crazy event that apparently happens on the first weekend of every month, year round. The year round doesn't astound everyone, but for those of us who reside in the midwest, that is pretty impressive! I took a trip down to Illinois to attend this along with my husband and my parents, and found some really wonderful vendors there who have some of the type of furniture I'd like to mix into my store, to use for displays and storage. Check it out! (There's Chris, sideways, in the long line for coffee)

Holiday Craziness?

2007-11-20T13:28:00.001-06:00

Here's a great article if anyone reading (ha!) has the time. (I don't think anyone's reading but me). And maybe Chris and Allison.

http://www.grist.org/feature/2007/11/20/say-no/index.html?source=rss

This is not a wedding blog

2007-11-20T11:55:00.001-06:00

But if it was, I would tell you that if I got to marry Chris all over again, I would be clothed in this dreamy Oscar de la Renta gown (maybe minus the sleeves...not sure). Although the first time around was quite nice even without Oscar dressing me. Sigh...

Why oh Why?

2007-11-20T11:49:00.000-06:00

Why do I always want things that are unobtainable? At $146.00, I suppose the fact that this Mike & Chris Kyle Knit Scarf is sold out is a blessing in disguise. Do you think I can find a knockoff anywhere? hmmm...(available at chocosho)

I Have an Obsession Which Must End Soon!

2007-11-20T10:24:00.000-06:00

I love birds. Anything with birds. I know the trend is super-over but I have always loved them and now there is so much beautiful stuff out there (on sale! because the trend is over! I know!) but honestly...isn't this beautiful? If you saw this in my home (or my store) you would ask me to kindly tell you where I got it. I'll tell you - you don't have to ask. It's from etsy seller Guy Michael Davis and you can buy it right here. You're welcome.