OooooH Baby

Hi Cleveland, happy Monday.

So I have these friends who used to live here but moved to California. They are expecting their second baby this week and I wanted to send them a little midwest love from the Land of the Cleve. I turned to Etsy, my go-to gift source for a baby gift of sorts and I just had to share.

I found this one store called LilBurritos, check out these two adorable onesies. I just LOVE LOVE them!!!





I ended up turning to my good friend Small Screen Designs for the perfect Terminal Tower onesie as the final gift selection.

Needless to say, they loved the gift and the baby will wear it proudly...this Wednesday! Congrats you two.

sports AND shopping...

What could be better?

Have you checked out the new Cavaliers Team Shop? Well, if you haven't I swear you are in for a treat.



Remember when you used to attempt to squeeze into the small gift shop, pushing and shoving your way through the racks of jerseys, hoddies, warm up pants and more? Now everything is spread out for your shopping pleasure. They expanded to open up another floor, added a tv so you can stay in touch with the action as well as an ENTIRE new line of team apparel.



I have to say, for someone who really isn't a huge team clothing fan, there were a few things that caught my eye, especially the retro blue and orange line.

Looking for something to do on your downtown work lunch break? Go take a walk over, it's really cool. GREAT JOB CAVS!

Fall (local) Wants.

So it was about late August when the list began... New cowboy boots, a puffy down vest, a fur vest, a new "bike riding" purse...and the list goes on and on. My FALL MUST HAVE list! What's on your list?

Two things that I would love to score this fall are from local boutiques, Room Service and Banyan Tree.




A Kobo Soke scented candle will be just like sitting by the campfire every evening. The Kobo collection scents last a really long time while the design of the jar and label are stunning.

Another fall "want" is this lovely Figwood necklace from the Banyan Tree. Wouldn't it look sweet with one of my new fall cardigans? I may have to take a ride down to Tremont this weekend. :)

So many fun things going on at many of the small business boutiques around town. If you have a wedding gift, a birthday gift or just want to pick something up for someone remember to try and shop local. It really makes a difference for our community.

Local Esty faves!

Every few months I like to spend hours falling deeper and deeper into my ultra fave site, ETSY!

I search for vintage globes, adorable crafty headbands, retreo fashions, chic homegoods, party supplies and more. I always try to shop from local Cleveland sellers and am amazed when I stumble upon great Cleveland shops; there are so so many!

Here are just a few to celebrate, all different but all great at what they do. Take a peak, plan your purchases and shop, shop, shop!

Giardino : Hand printed linen fabrics, home decor & paper goods. Amazing graphic botanicals for any chef or foodie. (printed purple pillow)



JoieDeCleve : Exquisite vintage finds, Soothing color palette. Simple imagery. Fair pricing. (sailboat pitcher!)



Orange Twine : AMAZING retro styling. Simple, playful and fun. Can we be friends? I LOVE EVERYTHING at your shop! (yellow skirt)



Do you have a local Etsy shop? Please share with us!!!

Celebrate Fall in Ohio!

The other day I was driving on 90 and noticed the onset of gold, red and orange.in the trees. Beginning in September, visitors of Cleveland flock to witness the brilliant colors that make up the region's fall foliage. Add to that the areas wealth of seasonal harvests like apples and pumpkins, and we've got a traditional autumn getaway complete with hayrides, crisp color and crafts.



Celebrate the season at one of these fall-themed festivals.
> Yankee Peddler Festival: Sept. 18-19, 25-26 at Clay's Park
> Village Peddler Festival: Sept. 18-19 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Cedar Valley Settlers Celebrations & Music Festival: Sept. 19 at the Rocky River Nature Center in the Cleveland Metroparks
> Fall Fest: 18th Century Festival: Sept. 26 at the Brecksville Reservation in the Cleveland Metroparks
> Fall Harvest Festival+Antique Tractor Show: Sept. 25-26 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Corn+Pumpkin Harvest Weekend: Oct. 9-10 at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
> Apple Butter Stirrin' Festival: Oct. 15-17 at Historic Roscoe Village

Friday fun!

Hello Friday! Oh how I’ve missed you since last Friday. :) It’s been too too long.

I have so many things on this weekends schedule and can’t wait to share some of my ideas with each of you! I think the onset of cooler temps and back to school has made me yearn to switch over my closet from bright & cheery summer to warm & cozy fall...but as all Clevelanders know....we MUST resist until at least mid-September. So while I wait....how about what is fun going on in our fearless city this weekend?

> Feel like taking a drive? In love with Max and the rest of the Where the Wild Things cast? Drive to downtown Kent as they show the movie on an outdoor screen...starts at dusk, should be fun for all! FREE

> There are LOTS of bike rides this weekend. Feel like hanging with a bunch of graphic designers? Head to the towpath this Saturday for AIGA’s ride. Feel like filling your belly with warm grilled cheese? Don’t miss out on Melt’s first fundraising ride this Sunday. If farms & barns are your thing visit the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park this Sunday!

> I saw the first slightly disturbing movie, The Girl with the Dragon tattoo...but sorta like a car wreck where you can’t look away, I am very intrigued to see the second part film in the three part series. The Girl Who Played With Fire, showing at Cedar Lee.

> Get your last few wears of those summer sundresses, and if you are looking for a few extra summer something's, stop by Room Service for their 60% off summer apparel sale!

On a side note, I can’t tell you how much I LOVE living in Lakewood and would like to thank Travel + Leisure Magazine for the HUGE shout out! “Lakewood : Coolest Suburb Worth a Visit!

And last...for those of you that do find yourself at the mall this weekend stocking up on back to school clothes...pick up this short for yourself. EVERYONE in Cleveland should have one. In fact I think that as a tax payer, we should just get one free in our mail some evening, now wouldn't that be amazing? If you can’t wait for GAP to maybe send you one as a good Cleveland citizen...then make sure to pick yours up soon. I hear they are flying off the shelves.... Love yOUR city!!!

Peony Monday

Monday, June 14th, 2010

The most perfect, pink peonies have invaded your local Heinen's. They are GORGEOUS!!!

Even though they are grown in Michigan the $5.99 price per bunch is enough to smooth out all sports rivalries. I may have to scoop up a few for my desk this week! Enjoy.

Gluten Free Cupcakes (06/11)

Friday, June 11th 2010

The Hudson location of Main Street Cupcake has let me in on their latest creation....for those of us with food preferences or food allergies you can now find gluten free sweet cupcakes every Friday for your and your friends at their bakery.

Each sweet cake will be offered in three flavors at $3 a piece. For those of us "sans-allergies" Main Street offers SO MANY adorable flavors, every day (closed Monday's)...my favorites are Champagne and Raspberries & Lemon Drop! Yummm..

Wine & Goat Cheese (06/12-13)

Saturday and Sunday, June 12-13th, 2010

I don't know about you, but a good glass of Malbec and a spoonful of goat cheese might be my ultimate favorite "snack."

This weekend at Heinen's they will be pairing Northeast Ohio's Mackenzie Creamery with complimentary beer & wine. There is even a discount $1.00 off each flavor (except truffle flavor), which is a great savings if you are feeling like stocking up! Entirely free to taste, I'll try to schedule my grocery shopping time to coordinate with my own personal "happy" hour!

See you at Heinen's!

She & Him THIS THURSDAY!

While I know it says they are already sold out...there are still plenty of tickets to be had on Craig's List. Ms Deschanel & Sir Ward (She & Him) have sold out almost every show. I actually couldn't believe they were stopping in to visit with us, but I am so glad they are!

For a free sample of their sound visit the Levis (jeans) website to download a free tune. (LOVE FREE TUNES!)

Isn't this concert poster so charming? Designed by The Small Stakes, it made me think how this show may have such cute concert merchandise. Music AND shopping...my fave. :)

Tremont Farmers Market

After a long holiday weekend, why not spend your Tuesday night in Tremont.

Buy your fresh veggies at the Farmers Market to stock your fridge with local good greens and more. Baked goods, meat, fresh eggs and more are available at the market as well. Every Tuesday now through October. Located in Lincoln Park.

You could also grab a glass of wine from the Visible Voice Wine Bar to enjoy in their charming courtyard.

There is lots to do in Tremont, Where do you like to hang when you visit?

wear a dress... Lizzy & Jane

Last weekend I spent a relaxing day strolling though Chagrin Falls with one of my closest gal pals. As we meandered through the tiny shops we stumbled upon this amazing dress shop named “Lizzy & Jane.”

Every wall displays darling unique dresses...I wanted one of each. Did you know there is a dress for every occasion? There is. These hand crafted, works of art can be worn with cowboy boots right up to your best pair of stilettos. When I was in the store I had the pleasure to meet one of the owners, Marilyn. She told me how they work with their designer to choose very select fabrics and craft them into the perfect dress for you.

Not only do they carry unique dresses they also carry the real simple line of bridesmaids dresses which are stunning! The store also carries pretty jewels and bags to accessorize your dress. Seriously I was like a kid in a candy store, I wanted to buy one so bad and now I can't stop thinking about them.....so maybe this weekend...

It truly is a gorgeous store, you simply must visit!

AI Root.

The other day I had an opportunity to travel down to Medina for a women's business luncheon. The lunch was to be hosted by A.I. Root, the famous Ohio candle makers.

Knowing me I had expected to end up leaving the meeting with a few “Root” candles in hand (chocolate, hosta & spiced ginger to be specific) but I never expected to find the most amazing gift shop ever. Anything and everything you can imagine from unique pillows, frames and candle holders (duh?) to a darling childrens shop, cook books (they offer cooking classes occasionally), purses and adorable little home accents. Let’s just say it was more than I had expected. Tres chic.



If you ever are looking for that perfect “afternoon drive,” drive down to sunny Medina where the folks at A.I. Root will WOW you with their special gifts for everyone. (they even have Ohio State stuff for your guy friends.)

This Thursday evening March 11th, Root Candles at West liberty (623 West Liberty Street, Medina) is hosting a Ladies Night Spring Sale Preview Party. Special savings on candles and other giftables. Light refreshments and drinks to be served.

grey cardigan celebrates spring weddings (03/12)

Friday, March 12th, 2010



Celebrate Spring. Celebrate Love. Celebrate Engagements, Showers and Weddings.

This Friday, celebrate the unveiling of the new Grey Cardigan "Something Borrowed, Something Grey" print collection by artist Brian Jasinski. His work is refreshing, youthful and sassy with a sense of humor twist.

Anyone getting married in your life? These pieces would make a delightful gift for any of the many wedding infused occasions. No standard Bed Bath & Beyond Prints for the newlyweds pad...only the best will do. :)

See you there!

Shopping @ NEXT

Hello and happy Monday Cleveland!

Last week was a whirlwind of fun and activity around town. Were you able to get to TEDX CLE last friday? If not, make sure to keep your eye out for next years event. Super inspiring and exciting happenings all around the CLE>

Also pretty fun... a few weeks ago I was invited to be part of an after work shopping spree courtesy of the store NEXT located in Beachwood Place. When I was originally invited, I thought to myself...the hip hop urban store that i usually stroll past as I escape Nordstrom's on a perfume sample high? Yep...that be the one.


(sneakers, Allison & pal)

Last tuesday night a bunch of us gathered to spend our loot on many unexpected finds...WAY more than graffiti tees...now I know. From fancy party dresses, to sleek sandals, studded bracelets to chic leather coats, scarves and sorbet colored sneakers...there really is more to NEXT than I ever knew.


(studs, Amelia & Michelle)

The sales staff was incredibly helpful. They knew what piece would flatter what figure. What ran small and what was a great buy for your dollar. Just returning from a big women's fashion buying trip, they spilled the beans that florals are going to be the "IT" thing this spring. The staff couldn't have been more accommodating to those of us who had never shopped their before.


(watches & Alexa)

I was thrilled when I scored a new fluorescent green G-Shock watch as well as two really great tops. Seriously cleveland ladies & gents...next time you are in the mood for some true boutique shopping, don't forget NEXT...it really impressed me.


(girls of NEXT & my new watch)

Another tricky pic!

I had so much fun around town over the weekend snapping pics along my snowy Cleveland morning...
Do you know where I was here?




I'll give you a few hints, you guess...

#1) It's located on the West side
#2) It's home to many fish, fruits & veggies
#3) It is open every week, but only certain days of the week

Ever been there?

Vote for Grey Cardigan!

okay Cleveland...time to step up and VOTE for a local favorite!

My friend, fellow designer and emerging illustrator has made it to the (almost) big leagues...let's make sure we vote for his design on Threadless.com and see too it that Brian's Design (one of his precious Grey Cardigan prints) gets national top score this week! It would be great to nab up a few of the shirts for fun guy pal summer birthdays...don't you think?



Go Brian, we are so proud of you for following your vision and sharing your talents. You are a inspiration to many. Now Cleveland...VOTE HERE!

Ravioli Review #1

One of my "to-do's" for this year was to explore each flavor of Ohio City Pastas Raviloi's.

A few weekends ago I was faced with "where do I start?" Each little pasta package looked so yummy and exciting. My mouth watered in anticipation. I could start with the richness of lobster or crab or I could begin with something a bit basic and work up from there.



I bought a dozen of smoked mozzarella raviolis-not basic in the least-and had the perfect Sunday night supper. They were robust yet fragile, smoky and rich like an aged bottle of wine, yet simple and lovely paired with a basic pea shoot salad. Quick to cook, these ravioli's get a ten out of ten!

1 down...many many more to go!

Chocolate & Art Walk (12/11)

Friday, December 11th, 2009

Looking for a night of good food, great art, and even better chocolate? Schedule time to swing by the December, Tremont Art Walk.




While you are perusing the galleries stop into Lilly's Chocolate for her special holiday flavors and "lilly barq."

Merry strolling, happy christmas cocktails, and joy to the chocolate! :)

Bazaar Bizarre (12/12-13)

Saturday, December 12th, & Sunday, December 13th 2009

A yearly holiday shopping tradition, you won't want to miss this years Bizarre Bizarre! From wacky indie crafts, to the unique art of area locals...it's a great place to check off every gift on your list.



Dissatisfied with stencils of country ducks and painted wooden slices of watermelon, a hodge-podge of friends started the Bazaar Bizarre craft fair in Boston in 2001. years later this community based event is still growing in popularity and has now spread to Cleveland!

78th Street Studios: 1300 W. 78th St to 1305 W. 80th St., north parking lot, north entrance (behind the building) -- accessible from W. 78th OR W 80th St. Noon to 9:00 pm, and Sunday December 13th from noon to 6:00 pm.