Hammocks & High Tea

whyrHymer

2011-09-23T10:56:00.001-04:00

Oh yes, it's been awhile. Happy Fall to you! I'm back today with an incredible collection of furniture & lighting by whyrHymer. So here's a little back story. My college friend Deanna, who I haven't seen in about 10 years comes into town. Midst red wine sipping she tells me she has a cousin who designs furniture, and of course I get excited because we're having furniture talk. Don't you? No? Okay. Anyway, it turns out said furniture is one of the most beautiful handcrafted collections I've ever seen. Take a look and be sure to watch the videos! In the meantime I'm trying to figure out a reason whyrHymer and I can work together :)

Building a Brand

2011-08-04T15:53:00.000-04:00

Launching a product line is the closest you will ever come to falling down the rabbit hole. Ask anyone who runs a sales/design/manufacturing business and they will tell you the same; each year we learn a little more, get a little smarter, and act a little tougher. We also waste a lot of time, energy, and money along the way trying to demystify the process. I've been lucky to meet a lot of entrepreneurs in my 4 years of business, each of us talented, passionate, and chock full of blank stares. Where oh where is the book that teaches you everything you didn't learn in the 50 other books you read already?

In conjunction with the Textile Arts Center, I have designed a series of 10 classes that cover topics from Product Development & Design, PR & Marketing, to Business Financing. Each class will be led by an instructor proficient in that area to maximize the benefits of the course, and classes are designed to work together. Purchase separately or as a full series.

See class schedule here, and please leave me a comment if you have any questions!

What's in a name?

2011-05-06T14:48:00.001-04:00

You've seen images like this on the site before and thought..geez this girl is OB-sessed with island living right? Wellll...kind of. In truth, it's all a part of my master plan. The name Hammocks & High Tea came to me in a tiny kitchen in a tiny Brooklyn apartment. I wanted something that spoke the inspiration for my brand immediately, in a few short, catchy words. Hammocks- Caribbean roots High Tea- British influence
Can I tell you how many people say "Wow, that sounds like someplace I'd like to be right now". Well, I'm letting it slip today. Part of my vision in choosing Hammocks & High Tea as a name is that I'd like to develop a Caribbean boutique hotel one day. Thoroughly modern, filled with amazing textiles and furnishings, and a world class spa. I hope one day I'll look back and be able to say the journey started in my little Brooklyn kitchen.

P.S. Whomever is quoting that "make plans, God laughs" phrase right now is not invited to the party. No hammock for you!

The Bootstrap Project

2011-04-29T16:07:00.000-04:00

I was introduced to The Bootstrap Project last week after reading about it on one of my favorite blogs, Out And About Africa. Could these piece be more heavenly? And how genius of them to show that traditional textiles can fit in thoroughlly modern spaces? As a matter of fact, I almost like them more in a neutral background than competing to be "heard" in a dramatic space.

The Bootstrap Project's mission is to retain centuries old crafts, working with artisans to preserve customs while enriching lives and communities. Now..I know what you're thinking. I see that Suzani, it's great and all but it's like $700 right? I'll let you go see the surprise for yourself...ok fine...it's $200, and prices are just as incredible throughout the entire site. Go forth and shop!

HGTV looking for NYC homeowners

2011-04-18T08:10:00.000-04:00

The Hottest, Chicest Home Design Team Wants to Transform Your Family’s Home on TV

A New York-based production company is looking for energetic and vibrant family homeowners in the New York Tri-State area who want their homes to match their family’s personalities, but who may not have the vision to make it happen. Whether it’s your family room, patio, or your kids' playroom/bedrooms, we want to help!

Our design team will bring their eclectic, high-end / low-cost, new-meets-old design philosophy to your home. This will not be just a room makeover; it will be a life-changer!

If you think your family’s home and our show might be a good fit, send us an email to designteamcasting@gmail.com with the following information:

Names, ages [for verification purposes], and occupations of each household member
Address and contact info (please include e-mail address and cell phone number)
List of rooms to be styled, photos are a big plus!
Favorite style you'd like to see (or do you want to be surprised?)
Your real design budget

Our superstar designers are at your service! We will be shooting between January & May 2011.

Made In America

2011-04-11T17:42:00.002-04:00

There was a show that I loved on HBO called How to Make it in America. It followed two 20 something guys trying to launch a denim brand in the hopes of striking it rich. As a product designer, I certainly identified with their daily hustle & bustle. You can often find me running around the garment district picking everything from zippers & linen, to meeting with sample makers. I know most of my small business owner friends lead similar lives as well. We get a first hand view of how to make it in America AND how it's Made in America. I've got nothing against products made outside of the USA, as a matter of fact I would like to one day support small artisan communities elsewhere, but I think there needs to be more education about what it actually takes to produce a product on our shores. I came across this article on a new ABC series called Made in America, where the challenge was to decorate a home using only American made products. Check it out, I see the names of some brands that I know well. What do you think?

Hammocks & High Tea Dopp Kits

2011-03-21T16:57:00.003-04:00

As with many of the items we produce, our Dopp kits have a story behind them. My uncles, three of my favorite people in the world, used them for their morning shaving ritual. I'd study them as they crafted the most meticulous beards and spritzed themselves with cologne every morning. Those fellas had ladies chasing after them like they were leaving the country... no kidding! As I was dreaming up new products to offer you, it occurred to me that ladies makeup bags are kind of pfft. So I designed a women's dopp kit, that actually fits everything (raise your hand if you had two makeup bags when traveling), and had a bit of pizazz. I sat in my workroom to see these baby's get sewn up recently and they take about 1/2 hour to 45 minutes to construct. 3 part construction, 2 layers, zipper, and leather handle. I hope you like them as much as we do.

This Earth...

2011-03-18T12:14:00.006-04:00

...is stunning and terrifying. It makes us feel so connected and honored to be able to witness it's beauty, and sometimes brusquely reminds us that as much as we poke, prod, and manipulate it that we have no control. A stunning lesson as the immediacy of social media allows us all to witness hardships like Japan & Haiti in frightening real-time. And then there is the above, a visual memoir I suppose.. that like any relationship, there is the dark and the light.

All images National Geographic

Life in Color: Orange

2011-03-15T17:22:00.003-04:00

Legar do Marmelo, Portugal- Wallpaper Magazine

I was at the flower market last week, completely transfixed by the most intense orange Ranunculus I've ever seen. My pocket was also transfixed until I found they were $75 a bundle. Ouch. Those were ever so gently put back on the shelves. I'm still smitten with Orange though, and wondering how I can work this powerful color into my life. Maybe in the form of a glowing overhang perhaps? No?

Granny

2011-03-01T18:40:00.005-05:00

This particular lady rocked. If she were here now, she'd say something to the effect of "what sort of language is that Ali (my nickname)?". March begins Women's History Month, and I'll be darned if I had no idea, but today is only the 1st so I get a female empowerment pass.

My business, my inspiration, and I believe my wicked ability to persevere through the face of all odds is owed in part to my grandmother. She taught me to explore my creativity, lovingly decorated her home with every doily covered pillow I ever made, sat still for hours as I drew crooked, disjointed "portraits" of her, and gave me one lesson after another on kindness and grace. As a child, I remember my family would shake their heads and say "Doris can't turn anyone away". And she surely didn't. I hope to give half of what she has given, tirelessly, humbly, and beautifully to every one that came across her path.

Here's to you Granny, this month and every single day. I'm so happy my past, present, and future is blessed by your spirit.

Life in Color: Red

2011-02-28T17:27:00.007-05:00

All Images: National Geographic

When I was a kid, I would crawl up in a corner with multiple issues of National Geographic. No kidding. My heart would skip a beat at the cover of each new issue and I would spend hours reading about fishing villages off the coast of can't-pronounce-it-aisle, remote cultures in far flung jungles, and the lives of endangered fish. I recently started with my obsession of Nat Geo again, which is only feuling the wanderlust in me. Maybe my childhood fascination with this magazine had to do with their incredible photography. Geez, these guys can capture some images! Anyway, as I'm researching Fall colors I turned to one of my favorite resources for beautiful imagery. In case anyone ever asks you, RED is my favorite color. Yes sir. Here's to Nat Geo for still making my heart race after all these years.

My Fellow Travelers...

2011-02-18T12:11:00.006-05:00

I once asked my cousin for her advice in a situation where I felt as though I were being singled out. She said "If you put your ego aside you will find that most situations like that have nothing to do with you". This was about 4 or 5 years ago. As I've grown I began to see it like this: Most people are traveling on their independent journey, and we meet, learn, live, and love along the way (well, we do a lot more but you get my meaning). You never know what your fellow traveler is carrying with them, and most often what you are taking to heart is often just something they are effusing from their own journey. It is a fine balance to learn from one another, yet not take on each others baggage.

Wanderlust

2011-02-15T10:52:00.006-05:00

National Geographic
It may be that time of year when I'm yearning to see the first bud on the tree that signals Spring. That might be what is triggering the wanderlust in me. But I know better. It's just me. I'm a homebody in fairy wings, I can be at peace anywhere I land. In particular though, I really need to land someplace warm, sandy, and colorful. When you start a business, you don't really, realllly know just how much dedication it takes. I love it, and I love dedicating myself to it, but sometimes you have to walk away to return with refreshed eyes. Every year I've made excuses why I can't travel. This year, I'm making a pilgrimage somewhere...don't know where, don't know when. Image above of Costa Rica.

Is Green a 4 letter word?

2011-02-09T11:08:00.005-05:00

click image for link

If you were to ask someone in South America, Ireland, the Caribbean, Central America, etc what being green means to them I would bet you an organic pillow they point to the grass beneath their feet. Every time I think about living "green" I remember growing up in Guyana, where we went to the open market and bought what we needed for the day, every day. We had those old school glass coke bottles that we would purchase by the case, and when it was done we took them back to the store, where it was recycled. The thing is, there was no term for it, no assignment, it was just what we knew.

Of late, I think green has become another term that folks are using to delineate themselves from each other. Do you compost? Have you used a plastic bag in the last year? The opinions of what "green living" is supposed to be can feel like a judgment. What do you mean you don't buy organic? Well, if I may butt in here *squeezes my way in*...I think living green is- doing your very best. with what you have. at that time. Not many people can forget this, it is very real, and it speaks to our need to do better with finding solutions for recycling and consuming less.

Everyone wastes, everyone shops for convenience, and it is easier, much easier to live closer to the land in some areas than in others. Green is a movement. We can all agree that a movement is pretty much a number of smaller components that when grouped together form a greater force, right? Then each one do your best as is available to you. Every person that skips the plastic water bottle in exchange for a water filter has just done something immense, and don't be fooled otherwise. This is how I do my personal best:

-reusable bags, I love these from Baggu , and they really do fit the kitchen sink
- I shop the farmers market in warmer months, it's delicious & less expensive
-I eat the best I can because it makes me feel better anyway
-buy only what I want to live with, even if it means my house is sofaless for months

What about you?

Adventures in Small Business Ownership- 1

2011-02-04T16:40:00.007-05:00

My apologies, I've had this in my inspiration folder for ages, but can't remember where I found it.

It's been ages since I blogged, but there is so much going on just one short month into the year. Aside from just loving how comfy the room above looks, I would also like to take a much needed nap. Nothing like a Sunday afternoon, nodding off over a good book and a cup of tea eh?

This years Adventures in Small Business leads me to participating in my first ever gift shows, including the big guy: New York International Gift Fair (or NYIGF). So much support, so much love for the new collection, so many tweets, blogs, visits. I know I say I'm humbled or moved a lot, but it's because I have no other word that will express it clearly. So there be it..I'm humbled and many thanks for the cheers. I appreciate it to no end, and if this blog, or my tweets, bring you a much needed laugh, some insight, or a pat on the back then I'll have returned but a bit of the favor. I'll be blogging my adventures as they happen, which means sometimes I'll be really quiet because I'm figuring out how to tweet, blog, ship, invoice, produce, etc without any of my hats falling off. If you want to know more about anything in particular, leave me a comment, and I'll do my best to answer.

-Karen

Care for a makeover in 2011?

2011-01-04T17:20:00.001-05:00

HGTV’s newest superstar designers want to transform your home on TV. A New York based production company is looking for energetic and vibrant homeowners (singles, families, couples) in the New York tri-state area who want their homes to match their personalities…but who may not have the vision to make it happen. Our top designers will bring their eclectic, high-end / low-cost, new-meets-old design philosophy to your home. This will not be a room makeover; it will be a life changer!

If you think your home and our show might be a good fit, send us an email with your vital statistics designteamcasting@gmail.com –

Your Name
Address & Contact Info (please include email and cell)
List of rooms to be styled – photos are a big plus!
Favorite style you’d like to see (or do you want to be surprised)
Your real design budget
HGTV designers are at your service! We will be shooting between January & April 2011.

2011 my non-goals

2010-12-29T14:05:00.005-05:00

my sweet nephew (3 at the time) appreciating the simple things

I decided this year to keep it simple for 2011. No long list of resolutions that I have no intention of keeping anyway. This morning I woke up and read something about 2011 being the year that you move toward your goals. Hey! I'm feeling good. I'm already living in my goals. So 2011 is going to be about one word instead that I keep in mind as I go about my daily life. Haven't picked it yet, but I'd better hurry.

I came across a post by Erin of Design for Mankind, and this bundle of sunshine said something that made a lot of sense. Paraphrasing her words: 'As important as it is to strive for betterment, I have a lot of habits and things about myself that I'd hate to change'. Here is my list of things I intend to keep the same in 2011:

1) I'm an awesome friend, cheerleader, and supporter
2) I've gotten so much better at understanding my needs and stopped questioning them
3) I've never once given up on myself
4) I've learned patience, sacrifice, and trust like nobody's business
5) I'm slowly letting go of the need to control everything, and it makes me giggle just to write that
6) I continue to take chances, even when it makes my breath catch in my throat
7) I do what I love every. single. day
8) My heart is big, I'm going to use it to change someone's life one day

2011 Looking Forward

2010-12-13T15:28:00.004-05:00

To say you are looking forward to something is an interesting phrase isn't it? It means that you're excited about something upcoming, and it also literally translates to facing oneself in the direction of the event/time/etc. I'd say that's how many of us feel about 2011, well according to my ultra scientific findings by way of twitter. I'm not terribly big on resolutions so I take the end of the year to re-evaluate life and business. What have I done this year, what challenges have the year brought, what can I do better, and last..is this where I want to be? Thankfully, I can answer a resounding yes to the last one. It has been a wonderful year, a year of growth spurts, and a challenging one. You never know what will happen when you take a leap in any aspect of life, but by taking it you're open to learning through the challenges.

What I learned from 2010:

-trying to please everyone makes for a tired me. stop it.

-there are no guarantees. none. stop it.

-the image of your brand is in your hands

My intentions for 2011:

-takes design risks, the only failure lies in not trying

-grasp the image and message of my company by the horns

-ask for help when I need it

-expand distribution in a concentrated, targeted manner

-travel more...yes please!

Yes Month

2010-11-30T13:01:00.003-05:00

just because I like this image. via: Elle Decor

So, I didn't jump from an airplane or anything. Not yet, let's at least wait til the warmer months for that. But I did, as promised, say yes to many new things this month. One thing I didn't expect? Yawn. Yes month made me a little tired, phew, there was lots going on in November. Here are just a few things I said yes to:

- an opportunity to be part of a Cool Hunting/Gap pop up shop- gorgeous and on 5th Avenue no less.

- meeting my industry friends for a sweet shindig thrown by Jonathan Legate and Amy Beth Cupp Dragoo. A supremely talented duo.

-dinner with two of my favorite interior designers

- an unexpected brunch invitation to meet some awesome people whom I had only spoken with previously on twitter.

- an opportunity to expand the reach of Hammocks & High Tea (more on that later :)

More than anything though, what I realized Yes month was for me is a need to live more in the moment. It's hectic running a small business, and mentally exhausting sometimes. I've done a few interviews this month where people have asked what advice I would give an entrepreneur. Here it is: "love what you do, because for quite some time you will live what you do"- ME I also reached out this month, said more of what was on my mind, and took the time to be honest with myself about my life and business. Perhaps it's because November is a signal that December is almost here and will rush by you faster than you can say "Happy New Year"!!! I tend to live in the future, as do most people, and Yes month reminded me that the present is where I stand, and nothing happens inthe future if I don't take a chance right here. I'm still here, I'm still growing and doing my best in the moment, I'm certainly still learning, and I'm ever grateful.

Dunes & Duchess

2010-11-23T15:52:00.004-05:00

I'm lucky to be surrounded by amazing designers and passionate small business owners, many of these connections to my surprise this year have been through twitter. I met the lovely Stacy Kunstel this summer and was an instant fan of her style (by no accident her twitter handle is @stacystyle). This year Stacy and her partner Michael "Dunes" launched a beautifully edited, well made collection of candelabras and lamps that rock.my.world. I remember walking away from the show thinking that it is in fact possible to do one thing, and do it so well that it makes a grand statement. Take a look at the fabulous Dunes & Duchess here.

Say Yes...

2010-10-28T17:46:00.005-04:00

Kind of like that Jim Carrey movie, correct, but without all the silliness...ok some of it. I realized that in the last few days I have said yes to things I have no idea how to bring to fruition. Nothing crazy mind you, but certainly opportunities that have been presented and without thought I said yes. The thing is once you affirm, the process begins and somehow you make it happen. So I'm starting to think that yes opens the door, and if it's right the road will reveal itself. If it's wrong, you learned something and have grown a little. So for the month of November I'm going to say yes to new opportunities, to possibilities, to new people... you get the picture. At the end of the month, I report back and tell you what I learned or experienced. Will you join me?

Warning: please set up your own parameters here, there are certain things that will forever remain in the "no", "heck no", "I don't think so", "you out of your mind?" categories.

Spring 2011 evolves

2010-10-01T16:10:00.003-04:00

I've been taking the Spring 2011 collection to new heights. There is a lot of change happening right now with the business, as I develop and grow, and strange enough it has forced open my creativity. Have you ever been taking a walk and stop to marvel along the way at a delicate plant that has managed to push a heavy rock out of it's way in order to grow? Yeah, me either. Just kidding! I certainly have, and some of the most beautiful things in life are born under strife of some kind. By the way, in the song is hidden the name of the collection :) Maybe I will hold a contest later?

D. Bryant Archie Textiles

2010-09-09T15:34:00.004-04:00

I wish feel-o-vision (don't get fresh :) were an option here to show how soft this collection is, but alas you'll have to visit a retailer of D. Bryant Archie Textiles to see for yourself. I have the pleasure of knowing "D" as a friend and fellow designer, and aside from the obvious talent, she's incredibly sweet. I mean the kind of sweet that makes you check your mood just to make sure you're on point sweet. Anyway, I'm aware that I'm making her dimple right now, so I'll move on to the textiles. The collection of handwoven blankets and pillows are inspired by ancient, far flung cultures, and are woven of the most heavenly baby alpaca I've ever felt. The process of creating this collection is entirely environmentally friendly, and helps to support the livelihoods and hand-looming traditions of artisans in rural Peru. Timeless, classic, refreshing. I love that the D. Bryant Archie collection stands on it's own. Also, look out for the new linen collection to launch soon.

Spring 2011 Inspiration

2010-09-03T12:45:00.009-04:00

I started here

Ran across this

And ended here

I will spare you the lengthy story of how I went from carnival in Brazil as my inspiration to Horimono tattoos, to Favelas...and managed to drag it all together. But...culture connects us all in some way and not only is it beautiful, but it is ever present in design of all sorts. Not to mention totally fueling my work with an endless source of inspiration. I don't want to shock you, but I'm in the midst of planning Spring 2011. Ok...I just shocked myself. Besides adjusting to the fast pace of being two seasons ahead at all times, this is my favorite part of the business. I get to dream in color. Spring will reveal a softer look for H&HT with our usual emphasis on pattern but we will be taking it up a notch. Now...time for me to get to work. This research isn't going to do itself you know?

By the way, the Favela images are from www.favelapainting.com These guys are just so talented and I love what they're doing.

I Wish Your Wish

2010-08-03T15:29:00.001-04:00

image: whitewall

A few weeks ago I met up with Jenna for a visit to the New Museum. The funny thing about museums are the perception of everything being some sort of off the walls, artsy brilliance. At one point we walked up a narrow set of stairs with a huge window overlooking the building next door, and a single lightbulb. We're all "woooww, what kind of installation is this?"...I think it was a staircase that led to the next floor. Anyway, that moment aside, I was particularly drawn to the "I Wish You Wish" by Rivane Neuenschwander.

"At the church of Nosso Senhor do Bonfim in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil the faithful tie silk ribbons to their wrists and to the gates of the church, and, according to tradition, their wishes are granted when the ribbons wear away and fall off. For Neuenschwander’s installation I Wish Your Wish at the New Museum, hundreds of similar ribbons will be printed with visitors’ wishes from past projects, and will hang from the gallery walls. Visitors will be invited to remove a ribbon, tie it to their wrist, and replace it with a new wish written on slip of paper, continuing the project that keeps generating new ribbons and dreams."- New Museum

In short I felt moved, humbled, and thoroughly human by the experience. We're such a faceless society now, and the face that you choose to share can be incredibly tailored. But looking through a wall of people's wishes, everything from 'I wish I could tell my mother I'm gay' to 'I wish I were on a beach in Mexico drinking margaritas', felt personal and was pretty touching. I chose my wish, left one in the wall, and my ribbon fell off a few hours later. Jenna's is still on today, but she admitted to having some crazy ninja tying skills. If you won't be making it to the museum anytime soon, you can make a wish online.

Monastery Window- National Geographic

2010-07-27T16:44:00.000-04:00

National Geographic

Who's that girl?

2010-07-23T14:56:00.000-04:00

At first I blamed the sudden interest in skirts and dresses on the ridiculously hot summer we've been having here in the NorthEast. 107 degrees + humidity anyone? Yeah, me either. But, if I'm to be honest, I'm a tried and true New Yorker. I've been wearing jeans and tees through some of the hottest months without a thought. They say your tastes change as you age (can we find another way to say that, I feel like a reference to cheese or something), but I didn't expect this. Now don't get me wrong, I won't be picking up a french poodle anytime soon but I really like this sudden embrace of le femme. In the wardrobe it's translated to figure skimming dresses, and at home I'm suddenly drawn to wallpaper, less severe lines, and French Provincial. French Povincial people! Me!?! If the new me were a couch it would have a sophisticated curvy frame and be upholstered in a simple white linen. I can live with that.

Image: Living Etc

Filmore Clark Tile

2010-07-19T12:33:00.000-04:00

I love Twitter for all the fantastic companies and folks I've met. Twitter is like dating though, someone follows you and you give them the virtual once over; check out their website, see how they tweet, and decide if you want to introduce yourself...all in 140 characters. Well, I was set to propose to Filmore Clark from day one. Founder Lee Nicholson offers American made tiles that are simply stunning. You all know I've got a weakness for patterned tiles used in unique spaces, so be still my beating heart. I've always wanted to have a tiled courtyard in a hacienda style home. When that day comes I'll be skipping into Filmore Clark. Lee...you up for working on a Caribbean home?

Things I'd like to do...

2010-07-12T18:53:00.000-04:00

aka The Birthday Blues. Anyone 40 and over reading this will say "what is she complaining about? She's going to be 32, it's not like she's 40!?!" Everyone experiences the birthday blues, at some time, and mine has come at 32...well 32 on Thursday. Shh..I'm busy milking 31 for all it's worth. Thing is I'm not really the pity party kinda gal, least I hope not. But life is never that spectacular plan that you wrote for yourself at 15, 20, or 25. Sure, it can be spectacular if you let it ride, but can we stick to the script please? I was really feeling the whole "I'll have a loft, a luxury car, rule the world, and have 2 kids by 30 bit.." What? Was that a bit much? I guess my script was pretty boring anyway, so it may be better I chuck it and start fresh. It is definitely easier said than done. It has been a rough two years, and I find myself challenging what I thought I knew, what I think I wanted, and what I'm looking forward to. You know the girl in the movie theater who watches the fright flick through two fingers? Yeah, that's me right about now. I guess I'm going to do this the same way I get on the highest roller coaster in the park.

Bravado. Holy crap, what are you doing? Heart pounding. Is this seat belt on? Are you sure? What the hell was I thinking? Oh crap, that's high. Screeammmm. Laugh. Hmm, that was kinda fun.
I'm not much of an action packed kinda gal beyond that, so my list of things I'd like to do is pretty tame..for now anyway. But in the spirit of putting it out to the Universe, here are a few simple things I'd like this year. Are you listening Universe??!

-the beach at night under the stars

-a bonfire and s'mores
-lounging on a boat on a lazy sunday
-certainty
-a few more dinners out
-good company
-family
-a vacation
-more money than I've seen in the last three years
-Oprah's favorite things (a girl can dream can't she)

Lemon Aid

2010-07-02T10:16:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I tweeted the first edition of our new monthly newsletter (have you signed up?) and it was all about the power of the humble lemon. Specifically, 5 new things you can do with a fruit that's probably already on your counter. The lovely Lee Nicholson of Filmore Clark mentioned she has some uses for lemons too...hiccup. I'll do another post soon on her tiles that make my heart skip a beat, but in the meantime enjoy her recipe for St. Germaine Citrus Fizz, and if your tiles arrive crooked...well...

Block Printing

2010-06-25T12:50:00.000-04:00

Elle Decor India

2010-06-24T12:58:00.001-04:00

It only makes sense to live with this level of color and beauty everyday.
Elle Decor India

Bali

2010-06-18T10:23:00.001-04:00

What can I say? I am who I am. Give me lush tropics, fresh coconut water, fruits,..oh, and surroundings like THIS?? I'm a happy camper.

Visit Bali: making "mosquito net decor" dreams come true everyday

Coco Shambhala Estate

Liana Cane

2010-06-17T10:22:00.000-04:00

sustainable chic from this?

Jason Wu for The Guyana Project

weaving at the Liana Cane Factory

Liana Cane Furniture

Morning blogging thought process went something like this:

"hmm, wonder if there are any eco lodges in South America. Maybe Guyana? It is one of the up and coming locations for eco travel ya know?"
"oh goodness...modern people...MODERN. Mosquito nets are not decor"
"I would love to decorate an eco lodge. We can be stylish and eco friendly. If I see another wicker chair..."

Of course, as blogging goes, one link led to another, and I came across The Guyana Project. The short version: the liana vines grow in the jungle and hang about in the trees, they are plentiful and grow quickly. The Wai Wai community uses them as fibers and makes everything from baskets to furniture. It is a sustainable, lightweight, option for furniture production that can combat deforestation. Guess what I see? Tightly woven rugs. Outdoor furniture. Shut the lights, the girl is dreaming.

A Little Princess

2010-06-15T09:31:00.000-04:00

Excuse me if I'm feeling nostalgic today. I was wondering the other day when I fell in love with textiles and interiors. I grew up reading National Geographic, Agatha Christie, & The Hardy Boys, so I can't say I was rooting through my mother's shelter magazines (her romance novels yes, but that's another story:D) I did read one book that I remember vividly and count as one of my favorites still. A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett was your classic tale of princess turned pauper turned princess. Throw in a mean lady with a vivid stripe of gray hair, a lonely spinster, some mean little rich girls, and you had yourself a familiar story. Only this time...Frances threw in fabric, rugs, embroidery, sarees, poufs, and a little jungle. I won't go into recreating the story. Perhaps you've read it? Needless to say, I was all in. I finally saw the movie a few years ago and I got to see how they interpreted my favorite story. Check the 1:21 mark to see Sara and her friend wake up in fabric finery. I would have used more pinks, royal blues, and a touch of gold but hey...the beauty of my story is that I can do what I want now right?

With a little help from Nate...

2010-06-13T17:55:00.000-04:00

inspired by Nate's stunning combination of textures & patterns.
thanks for making me feel better about my "renter's white" walls Nate!

If you've stopped by before, you know that I'm newly obsessed with decorating my empty, although lovely, apartment. It's all I think about lately actually, but, uhmm, my pockets don't often agree with my taste. Never mind all that..on with the plan. In said obsession, I plan on using a few Nate Berkus pieces in my space. Hello affordable, gorgeous pieces?? Sigh...only NB. Aside: Nate, I'd appreciate it if you would bring this, this, and this back. Please and many thanks. So, here is my proposal for my living room:

-craft/dining table needs to be visually light as the space is small
-I plan to have the NB studio sofa do double duty facing the living room or the dining table
-contrasting textures, natural fibers, & everything makes nice with each other
-a few unexpected and bold accessories

The room needs to cater to living as well as running a business in a small space so I think clean & simple is best. What do you think? I'm excited to see Nate bring his approach to living beautifully to his new show. I'll be watching on September 13th!! Now listen Nate...about those sold out pieces...

Thanks to MoggitGirls for spearheading the Nate movement and to CreateGirl for dreaming up #nateday. It was easy to be apart since the "Oprah cutie pie" also happens to be pretty darn talented. Check out the list of bloggers participating here.

Menara Gardens, Morocco

2010-06-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

yep, this will do me just fine, thanks.

via National Geographic

Mihrab

2010-06-10T14:31:00.001-04:00

I've admired these alcoves many times before but never knew the term for them, or even that there was a term except "oh my goodness, that's jaw dropping beautiful". But as you might be able to tell from this blog, and my work, I am easily swayed by all things patterned, textured, tiled, gorgeousness...gah! Anyway, a Mihrab is a niche in the wall of a mosque that indicates the direction Muslims should face when praying. More from Wiki here.

Opium Beds

2010-06-07T18:19:00.001-04:00

It's possible I might have been the only girl showing up at the opium parties to admire the beds.

Bedroom- Part 1

2010-05-27T15:23:00.000-04:00

Step by step...brick by...hmm, textile by textile? Ok, skip the sing along. This is the layout of my bedroom. When I say I have to start from scratch, I really have to start from scratch. The only thing is I won't be painting, so scrap any ideas you may have of gorgeous navy blue walls. *sniff* For one thing the ceiling height isn't too shabby, and at 5'4" I'm not crazy. Second, it's a New York apartment building. Although it's in great condition, the walls have years of that washed on kind of paint. It just happens to look better in "renters white" (did I capture that color right?), and I'm going to be the bigger woman and live with it! Ok, next up. Letting go of the confusion of "ooh, that's pretty" and trying to hone my style and budget to get what I love. Room by room. Orrr...make it really big, sell loads of tea towels, and hire an interior designer. Yeah, how 'bout them apples?

Ishka Designs

2010-05-26T15:34:00.001-04:00

I've recently met Anishka Clarke of Ishka Designs through the wonderful world of twitter, and happy to call her a talented new friend. She answered a few short questions about creating her beautiful spaces and the future plans for Ishka Designs. Somehow she forgot to add that she'll be doing my dream home in her five year plan, but whatever, I know how to reach her.

-You formerly had a career in finance. What caused you to take that leap
from finance to Interior Design?

It was something that I just had to do. I was actually looking for change prior to the transition and unfortunately it took me about a year to realize that the only change I would’ve been content with was interior design.

-What inspires your spaces?

Almost always my clients.

-If you could design any space, grand or small, what would it be?

Ideally, some boutique hotel or group of villas on/or near the beach with a handful of rooms each requiring its own sensibility.

-Where do you see Ishka Designs in 5 years?

Actively working on target size commercial projects in the US and the Caribbean. We have very clear 5-year goals that we recently set and we have begun to sow the seeds to get there.

-Your spaces often have a bit of nature included, whether exposed wood or
rough hewn tables. Is that an Ishka Designs signature? If so what does it
mean to you and your spaces?

Hmmm, not all our projects have exposed wood included I think, but for each project we definitely bring in some natural element. Both myself and Niya are strongly influenced by texture. Probably me more so. In a way, tactile surfaces have become very important to how I arrive at a solution. Maybe my desire to always be grounded manifests itself in this way…

-What can this designer not leave home without?

Lip gloss and a sharpie!

2 Minute "Raw" Pasta Sauce

2010-05-25T21:31:00.000-04:00

If you read this blog and you know me, then you know I had to find the most well designed picture of pasta available. Mmmhmm. I don't do measurements, I'm the person that says "to taste" all the time so there you have it. Note: I made fresh for the evening, not to store, because it literally takes 2 minutes. Serves two.

Ingredients:

1/4 red bell pepper
1/4 yellow bell pepper
1-2 cloves garlic (to your preference)
2-3 leaves of basil (I like 2 leaves as it's a bit bitter to me)
1 15 ounce container of ricotta cheese (1/2 of the container)
1 teaspoon of olive oil
salt/pepper to taste
parmesan cheese

1- prepare your favorite pasta.
2- combine peppers, garlic, basil in blender or processor. Pulse to chop
3- add ricotta and olive oil
3- pulse for a thicker sauce or blend for a more liquid sauce.
4- add salt/pepper to taste
4-Pour over hot pasta, mix, and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese

Literally..minutes. This post took longer to write. I'll be trying this with fresh tomatoes, and maybe a pesto version. Even better, there's no sugar and the nutrients are raw. Enjoy!

image: art.com

The Bedroom

2010-05-25T18:14:00.000-04:00

move in ready!

the headboard and dresser are calling me

x benches? yes, please

the wallcovering. the textiles. where do I begin?

Anyone else find themselves in a fit of stagefright when it comes to decorating their own homes? Oye. I'm suddenly afraid that I'll hate something after I buy it, or that the end result won't be what I want. Ask me about anyone else's home and I'm alll Miss Opinion though! So, I'm going to do what I do for any other projects and get it on paper..ok, well on screen. First, the thing that will have to stay is the bed. Sigh, please don't judge my bed, it's a sad tale of just how Caribbean I am. I mean wicker? In my defense, I got it right out of college. No budget for an upholstered headboard. So to start I'm staining it a darker color, like this. Check back later for my inspriration board. I can do this..yes I can!!

all bedroom images courtesy: House Beautiful

Egg Designs

2010-05-20T17:07:00.001-04:00

My favorite, heart pounding favorite mind you, booth at the ICFF was Amaridian. It's new to me, possibly why I was so excited, but apparently they have a shop in Soho...who knew? Obviously not I. Well, I won't get wordy here but basically owners Mary Slack and Fraser Conlon, work with emerging African artists to "bridge a new idea of Africa with America through the arts". One of my favorite designers was Egg Designs, a South African team creating some incredible (edible eggs...sorry, I just had to. darn commercials) furniture. I've never in my life wanted a beetle anywhere near me until I caught sight of their "bug" series. And that Sungoddess daybed? Oh, just glide me to the moon.

Green Couch

2010-05-14T10:08:00.001-04:00

Is that a blue tinted floor? Heavens to Betsy!

Sometimes words are futile. Enjoy Green Couch, an interior design and staging company in San Francisco. And yes... they have a shop too. Found via my sweet friend Reverie Daydream.

Dining Table Dilemma

2010-05-12T10:35:00.001-04:00

Erm...help? I'm finally working on my home front. No kidding, I live in a business. Thankfully that business is housed in a nice little pre-war with original wood floors and doorways shaped like this. My living room/work area is large enough for a dining and living area...well, I'll make it large enough anyway. So herein lies the glass table dilemma- the desire is to break up the space for efficient living/working but not break it up visually. The look? Modern with an emphasis on texture and color. Vintage and global pieces will bring it all together. Anyone have a glass table? Is it too much fuss with fingerprints, chipping etc? I don't exactly want to live with a bundle of nerves about a table.

1. Concerto Dining Table from Z Gallerie $599
2. Engineer Dining Table from CB2 $299
3. Silverado Dining Table from CB2 (thanks Connie) $299
4. Viva Modern Arch Dining Table from Amazon $401.10

Mongolian Gers

2010-05-11T16:31:00.001-04:00

I was watching Bizarre Foods on the Travel Channel yesterday and the host, Andrew Zimmern, was in Mongolia. I watch this show in part for the interesting foods he eats, but mainly for the amazing cultures he encounters. So of course the first thing to grab me was the Gers ( a wooden lattice frame often covered with felt) they live in. I missed everything he ate after that, because these one room spaces were filled with the most beautiful, brightly painted furniture and textiles I've ever seen. The incredibly efficient use of space is another story altogether.

Images: Tent of all Tents

M'Afrique by Moroso

2010-05-10T10:41:00.001-04:00

Just stunning. I would use the brightly colored pieces to create a "global modern" cabana and pool lounge area. More images and article about the inspiration can be found at Yatzer

My Living Room

2010-05-03T16:55:00.001-04:00

Nope...that's not my living room, but I have plans to make it my.living.room. The key word here folks is not living, it is rooooom. I can actually split my living room in two...whoa. Although I would love to paper the walls in a soothing grasscloth , I am forced to leave it more like this . Which is fine, white is pretty calming in my olde age. The next step is to meet the challenge of buying grown up furniture (step awaaay from the Ikea), and decorating a home on a budget. Loving these two images for inspiration as the dining room/order fulfillment center will be at the back of the living room/nap fullfillment center. Lovely right? I definitely plan to layer on some color with artwork though.

Images: Living Etc

Forma Fantasma

2010-04-30T12:34:00.001-04:00

"Our project is a statement on the ephemeral concept of tradition and shows the contradictions of a decadent culture: if as Italians (and Europeans) we are able to represent our culture with a "Moor vase", at the same time we must be able to go beyond prejudice and fear, and to let our culture change in the course of time"

Forma Fantasma

Inspiration & The Carefree Life

2010-04-14T12:18:00.000-04:00

This is my inspiration image that I've been looking at for years now. When I'm creating a collection, I do gather prints, pictures, textures, and colors that I like but those come down once I'm done with that season. This inspirational image hangs over my desk. Inspiration for me isn't really about what the next hot color is for Spring 2011 (although I pay attention, believe me), it's about creating a lifestyle. Now, I'm not even talking about a brand lifestyle here. I'm just talking about living the life that I desire. People often use the term "carefree lifestyle". That's a heavy one, as I'm not terribly sure that life can be carefree. It all depends on how you handle the challenges presented to you. I once read that stress is really just the perception of stress. Meh, there's a point to that, but some things are easier said than done. Woosah. I can't say I'm seeking a carefree lifestyle (though if offered I'd sure try it), but I am seeking a fulfilling life with people that I love and surrounding I enjoy. Why does this image evoke that I wonder? I think it has to do with the harmony of the materials, the stillness of the water, the fact that nature is invited in. In terms of a collection, I think that I attempt to infuse that desire for a particular lifestyle into my work. I hope they bring that energy into the homes they eventually end up in.

P.S. I only have this page from the magazine, so I don't know who to credit it to but..Thanks :)

4 Month Check Up

2010-04-13T16:52:00.000-04:00

I still haven't decided what the direction of this blog should be. I read some of my friend's blogs, (like sweet fine day), and I think, goodness, it's so open and honest. I should really be more like that. You get such a sense of comraderie and shared struggle/joys when reading a blog that's about life. But that takes cojones, ones I don't have. Plus, I'm not all that interesting...really. Yawnfest over here. So, I'll keep it simple I suppose. Post a few of the pretties, and keep you updated on business. So about business..well I had my list of things I wanted to accomplish this year. I'm excited to say that it's been a nice little step in the right direction, but the best has been working with my new PR firm Moderne Press. In just a few short months Connie has already been a driving force behind the development of this brand. I'm dreaming in corners that I never knew were lit, and most of all, I feel that I finally have time to develop at a pace that fits the brand/me. It helps. It helps a great deal, and I'm glad I took the advice of some one of the well branded tech gurus (can't remember if it was Bill or Steve :) Something along the lines of 'if you're down to your last dime, spend it on PR'. Well, thanks. Now...where did I put that life I was supposed to get? Ah well, one step at a time.

Andre Joyau

2010-04-08T14:36:00.000-04:00

Always on the lookout for inspiration, I'm never lacking visual stimulation in the form of gorgeous furnishings and pretty patterns. Blame it on the blogs...*cough *cough*. There is a downside, however, because I always find myself wondering if I want to live with something just because it's gorgeous. Silly question right? But I need to connect with objects just as I do people. Do you shop like that too, or have I lost my wood chips? Well, turns out designer Andre Joyau makes pieces that I love, so I don't feel so bad.

The Kandy House

2010-01-20T11:06:00.001-05:00

There's a reason people run to warm temperatures when they want to relax. There is just something about the combination of the weather, open air houses, and lush foliage that makes you feel small. Yes, small. The kind of small that just lets you melt into this temporary escape, knowing that you don't need to do anything but just. be. you. Just looking at The Kandy House in Sri Lanka makes me feel relaxed.

Haiti reminds me of home...

2010-01-14T10:07:00.001-05:00

painting by Hatian artist Montas Antoine

West Indian. Caribbean. South American. The Islands. These are all descriptions I'm used to hearing, and have been since I came back (I was born in Brooklyn) to the United States at age seven. Living in Brooklyn, where an overwhelming number of "islanders" lived, there was a constant undercurrent of immigrant life. The kind of life that was less about assimilation, and more about an intense desire to hold onto their culture. See, no matter where you were from, this commonality of being West Indian, Caribbean, or from "the islands" meant you belonged to this community right here. It never had or needed an exact location, no longitude or latitude, rather a sense of belonging that could never be found on a map.

For the children of immigrants, the desire to be "American" was often at the forefront of our minds and actions. Time and again that pesky, perceptible island accent would fight it's way to the forefront, no matter how American you tried to sound. Or the lunch of stewed chicken, rice and peas, and plantains your mom packed for the school field trip, when all the other kids had baloney sandwiches. Oh, the shame. Wanting a pair of the newest Jordan sneakers and Guess jeans (the ones with the embroidered question mark in the triangle patch) 'cause that's what the kids wore in school. Only to come home and find that your mom had purchased "Hordans" and "Buess" jeans (they had an exclamation point rather than a question mark). Later on you learned that your parents were sending money "back home", so there was little room for your pricey name brands. Sundays were dedicated to calling the family, never mind that it took all day to get through spotty land lines, blackouts and bad connections. My family still does this every Sunday.

No matter how you tried to escape it, this island culture just wouldn't let you become an American in peace. After awhile, you just accepted it. Embraced it actually. Moved back to it as an adult, and led with "I'm West Indian" when someone asked where you were from. Somehow, despite our every effort to become Americanized, this connection beats in my generation too. Any islander has long defeated the phrase "you can never go home again", in our case we may have never actually left. It's that collective feeling that makes me feel Haiti too is my home, and that collective feeling that breaks my heart to see my family suffering so deeply.

This post is a part of Bloggers Day of Action for Haiti. Please visit the other wonderful blogs below to see their posts. Today, AphroChic will be hosting a charity auction to help raise funds that will be donated to Red Cross, UNICEF, and Yele Haiti
The White House blog has updates as well as other ways to donate.

It's Oh So Grand
A Life More Fabulous
Bay Area Style File
Single Bubble Pop
Lindsey Lou Blogs
Styleture
Simplygrove
Make Under My Life
Design For Mankind
Urban Casita
Nuvani Nice
Jodines Corner
The Cubicle Chick
AphroChic

2010 - On a Mission

2009-12-23T12:15:00.000-05:00

The holiday rush is over and I have, for the first time, given myself time to relax and reflect. 2009 had many firsts for me: 1- it was the first year I wasn't working full time, while building Hammocks & High Tea, so it afforded me time to actually focus on retail as well as wholesale. It was also the first year I didn't have a "security" blanket of a full time pay with benefits. Let's just say it was a scary ride at times. 2-It was my first major press year with steady coverage from international as well as stateside magazines. Having done it on my own up to now, that was definitely moving for this indie biz lady. 3- this is the year I realized the trap of being small: working all the time. The workaholic trap is easy to fall into when you pair loving what you do with the desire to grow. The reason I started this business? Well, so that I could put beautiful work out into the world and so that I could have a LIFE. Working on that stat.

The desire to travel is at the top of my goals for 2010, and will be reflected in my work as well. But the full circle comes with knowing that I need to work to achieve those goals, that only I can give myself two weeks paid vacation from now on. Oye. Now what? Well, I hope that the choices I'm making are going to lead me in that direction. Moving into production of the fabric, working with a PR agency, and giving myself at least one day off each week to recharge. Hey, it's a start. Is it scary? Yes, very much so. But part of that fear is knowing that I have no choice if I want to grow. To paraphrase Holly Hunt 'there comes a time when one must go from creative to being a business owner'. 2010 is that time, so I guess I best say- (insert your own colorful expletive) to fears, doubts, and economic woes and dive in. I've already got both feet in the pool and the sun is just starting to warm the water.

Great article here about indie biz making money with the sacrifice of time. Travel article here.

Our New Mantra...

2009-11-04T09:47:00.000-05:00

Telephone Wire Designs

2009-10-28T11:10:00.001-04:00

Necessity is the mother of invention right? Well, in South Africa she a crafty mother at that. Check out these amazing pieces and patterns crafted using telephone wire.

via: Folk Art South Africa

The Roundtable Is Full Circle...

2009-10-09T12:05:00.000-04:00

I was recently invited, to my honor, to take in a rountable discussion this week at the showroom of Vicente Wolf. Yep, that Vicente Wolf. The roundtable included Micheal Bruno of 1st Dibs, Amsale, Jason Kontos, and Preston Bailey. (*Vicente was unable to partake as he came down with pneumonia, I hope he's feeling better) If you're guessing that I was swaying in my boots at the mere thought of being in the room with these folks who are a part of my daily style vocabulary, then you're so right. I wish it could have gone on for hours, but the short time I was there I literally soaked in everything I could. In short here's what I learned: 1) take the chance on your dream 2) balance your strengths by hiring others who excel at your weakness 3) maintain your passion, once that fizzles so does your business 4) find your voice and stick to it.

I felt like a kid in that room. Here I am trying to make something of my little idea, they were leaps and bounds above anything I am doing with myself...right? I mean these guys KNOW Oprah. Until I looked around and realized two things: 1)the entire panel had been where I was at one time and 2) everyone in attendance was as eager to learn as I was. Established interior designers, editors, business owners, PR gurus, designers. Questions like "How do I dicsuss pricing with my clients?" , "Is PR important?". Do any of these sound familiar to you guys? They're the same questions we're asking right?

As I was chatting with Vicente's PR Director about the popularity of his blog, I realized that people are yearning (whether as consumers or business owners) to hear the real voices behind the glossy magazine features, the fabulous floral displays, the stunning wedding gowns and runway shows. In short, I hope to be a part of more of these in the future and bridge that divide that is becoming more evident in the digital age. There is an accessibility that is afforded with having a blog for example. That call and response between post and comment allows us to learn from the best and teach going forward. Eh, just my little soapbox for today. Still squealing with delight at getting to meet all the above :)

2010 Goals

2009-09-25T11:21:00.000-04:00

Did I just burn your eyes with that post?? It's only September and here I am thinking about 2010 goals...yikes! Well, I was watching tv the other day and someone said there were umpteen weeks left in the year...WEEKS!!! WEEKS?? You can't cut the rest of my year down into weeks! I need months, days, hours and minutes...those sound way longer no? But the fact is as a small biz, my life revolves around this impending end of year where the maximum of my sales happen. Drawer liners, tea towels, and whatever else I've dreamed up make a mad dash to the post office to make it in time to the homes of those who love the handmade. Phew! Then I crash sometime after Christmas and am still too tired by New Year's to do anything but watch the Honeymooners marathon. Oh, who am I kidding? I watch the honeymonners marathon every year without fail :)

But this year it's time to think about smart expansion. You see, I do everything by hand...everything I say. Currently I keep little to no stock, just fabric and print as necessary. That happened to be the best way to start, but now with a growing business it's time for the next step. You know, the one that will allow me to put on the other 10 hats I wear. Accountant, clean up crew, tradeshow display maven, customer service, etc. So with that said here are next years goals in order of importance... but the most important being to grow this little business of mine organically and independently.

1) Hire PR firm- very necessary

2)Outsource printing of fabric and possibly drawer liners

3) Tailor collection of prints

4)Do at least one major tradeshow, most likely NYIFG

Pricing & the small business...

2009-09-21T14:37:00.000-04:00

So in developing an organic bath and body line I finally came across real pricing dilemmas. When I started Hammocks & High Tea (as a wee stationery line), I found it easy to compare it to other goods on the market. Most A2 sized cards are the same price, letterpress will be a dollar or two more expensive. Ok, lets look at tea towels. Anywhere from $8 / $10 to $18 / $22 per each tea towel. I took my measurements, looked at the amount of work and time it required to cut/print/sew each one as well as the ability to wholesale them, which was an important aspect developing my business. But I fell into a dangerous small business owner category. Will customers pay for this if it cost $22? The fact of the matter is that cheap moves quickly, and cheap and cute moves even faster. I was happy with my end retail price but wholesale was cutting it close, and when the cost of my supplies increased, I had to increase my prices. As my friend at organic clothing co. Earthy Beginnings told me (cause, really every small biz has been throught it), 'price your goods for what they are worth in the first place'.

So in developing Ilha Organics I was back in the price boat but with a whole lot more ingredients. Ones that come in tiny vials with high price tags..I swear I hold my breath while opening these oils for fear of inhaling the entire contents in a single breath. 20 roses for one drop of oil...aye aye aye! Could I have chosen not to go organic? Sure. But organic supports people like me for one thing, and pouring wonderful smelling, chemically processed oils into a product that goes on freshly washed, damp skin...ummm, just doesn't sound sexy to me. It's easy to write a thesis on organic vs. non-organic, and since I found plenty in my research for this line I'll leave it out of this post. But at the end of the day, I'm a small business trying to price fairly for great products (oh, please stop clapping, I'm embarrassed :), and I know for sure I'm not in this boat alone.

Ilha Organics Official Launch...really...officially..

2009-09-09T11:57:00.001-04:00

Ilha Organics will launch on 9/14 but I was too excited about my new packaging and photographs to hold out until then. As this collection will only be offered online, I wanted the packaging to literally breathe organic luxury. The labels are a beautiful textured paper with an updated apothecary feel and a nod to the carib roots of the product...phew!
In other news, I'd like to embarrass my friend and photographer Rayon Richards , who got exactly what I wanted after seeing the packaging alone. It is what I wanted and then some...and I'm trying desperately to convince him to start teaching indie designers how to take amazing product photos...nudge, nudge.

Instyle Magazine

2009-08-21T10:55:00.000-04:00

Thank you Instyle Magazine for the beautiful spotlight on our drawer liners. I could effuse the slightly cheesy but ever so humble way that I really feel to be featured in a magazine I've wanted to be in since I was a child...but I think that statement alone will do :) Honored and just wowza!

Introducing Ilha Organics....

2009-08-18T22:05:00.000-04:00

I've been working on this project for some time now and am excited to finally announce the bath/body component to Hammocks & High Tea....Ilha (island in Portuguese) Organics. This will be the first collection we have that will be available only on our site, as producing an entirely organic body product collection is a pretty expensive undertaking. Each of our balms and oils are steeped in green tea and calendula flowers then hand blended at low temperatures with organic essential oils. I love using them and I hope you will too. Read more about my inspiration here.

British Homes & Gardens

2009-08-07T12:20:00.000-04:00

Thank you to British Homes & Gardens for featuring my tea towels in their ikat round-up. Must be the "high tea" in my "hammocks".

The New Site

2009-08-03T15:32:00.000-04:00

Phew...finally! After having worked on a new collection some months ago I have finally launched the new Hammocks & High Tea. Many thanks as usual to my web designer extraordinaire Denise Biondo and the fact that she always gets it and turns it around in a matter of days. I've taken to calling her Houdini! Please check out the new, simplified site and update your bookmarks...if we are bookmarked...ahem, cough, cough.

Another announcement to come this week about a new product...

Micheal Jackson

2009-06-28T11:26:00.000-04:00

In the wake of the untimely death of one of my absolute favorite artists of all time, I've been watching every music video and listening to every song that I can. I came across Earth Song yesterday and realized why this man, this icon, transcended the boundaries of culture, race, and age since he was a child. Despite the allegations, despite the physical transformation, rumors, etc...Michael Jackson still put himself on a world stage to incite change. Songs like "They Don't Care About Us", "Heal The World", "Man In The Mirror", and "Earth Song" are just examples of how this musician made art. His composition was on point for sure, his moves were in a league of their own, and each song pulled you into the moment in such a way that almost everyone I know could match a time in their life to a Michael Jackson song. But I think his ability and desire to bring attention to a host of issues like discrimination, violence, the environment, etc will be another reason we won't ever forget this artist. He will truly be missed but as I realized yesterday as my baby cousin, at 9 months old, started moving her little hands to the beat of his songs...he will never be forgotten.

Hammocks & High Tea in UK House & Garden

2009-06-21T12:44:00.000-04:00

Phew...long title. Thank you to UK House & Gardens for featuring HHT so beautifully in their July 2009 issue. Click on the image to view larger.

Les Indiennes

2009-06-12T09:36:00.001-04:00

I start everything with a visualization...everything. It's my method for getting exciting and even mundane projects off the ground. In my vision for the future of Hammocks & High Tea I get a virtual picture by looking at companies like Les Indiennes. Designer Mary Mulcahy has developed her collection from beautifully printed fabrics, to soft goods, to furniture. All with this undeniably chic, multicultural vibe. I'm loving the road I'm on, enjoying the organic (no pun) expansion, and learning that moving with the flow of the stream makes for the best, and most scenic, journey.

Creative mind vs Business mind

2009-06-04T11:06:00.000-04:00

I'm sure many of you reading can agree that when you do something creative that happens to be a business, it can be difficult to choose between what you enjoy and what brings in the sales. I started Hammocks & High Tea with a small stationery collection because it was the most affordable way to introduce a brand (especially from a tiny NY space). It was a way to learn my voice, develop patterns, etc. Let me tell you...there is nothing more challenging than designing within a 4.25 x 5.5" space of white cover stock! So with each season I was able to introduce little items into my home goods category and coming July will offer an expanded collection, and the sale of each little notecard got me there. Amazing right? But the time came to decide what my strong points are in business and it's the fabric pieces and gifts items. So the creative mind suggests that I should make any and every thing I love while the business mind (and the tired body) says to make what sells the best. It's an interesting dilemma but certainly not one to complain about. So with the new goods launching in July I will diminish the screen printed note card line, expand the fabric line, expand the gift line (including notepads 'cause I just love 'em), and add a little extension of one of the above)...phew.
Image: Blind Embossed cards by Pinball Publishing via Paper Crave that makes me want to run right back to notecards because the thought of creating something so gorgeous just calls to me!

A little more...

2009-05-20T13:08:00.001-04:00

of a sneak peek. Coral Reef tea towels (also available as napkins) and Waves 20" pillow. Officially launching in July. I'm working on streamlining the website a bit and merging the shop into my big cartel site to have built in order tracking, etc. I'm also launching another component of HHT for the holidays that I'm reeaaaallly excited about. Right now I'm researching and getting my info straight to launch the best product possible; everything good starts with research and a little first hand experience after all. What's taking up my days? Printing, shipping, research and packaging ideas, revamps, and design. Now where did I put my hat...

Hacienda Style

2009-05-06T13:58:00.000-04:00

These images from design firm Hacienda Style have me packing my bags. Those tiles, smooth cement floors, and worn wood doors are some warm and familiar.

Packaging Design and Branding

2009-04-28T12:56:00.000-04:00

I've been really racking my brain to create the most appealing, straight forward and just plain pretty packaging for some of my products. Namely the drawer liners and a sister product. See what I like above??...pattern, pattern, and bold color. These are what I find the most reflective of my brand. The problem? The drawer liners are already patterned and packaged in a clear tube. I'm getting closer but still trying to get just the right look. Creating great packaging/labels is no joke...kudos to all the talented folks who do it.

Images courtesy of The Dieline- i.e. the site I've lived on for the last week

A Peace Treaty Scarves

2009-04-14T11:04:00.000-04:00

Aside from the company mission and the obvious beauty of these scarves I'm in awe of the artisan process. The KILIM styles feature block printing with an incredible number of colors, GOSSYPIUM styles are hand woven, and NIANI offers hand dyed silks in a wild spectrum of tones. I'd love it if the site has a page to show these scarves in progress.

A little of the past and thinking of the Future

2009-04-03T11:26:00.000-04:00

Since I started Hammocks & High Tea I've had in the back of my mind a concept of how I want to give back to humanity as well as the environment. I've always admired Toms shoes for their "One for One" cause: for every pair of shoes purchased one pair goes to a child in need. Check out their site for more about their cause as well as pictures from their shoe drops.

Image: Tom's Shoes

Saratoga Hotel-Havana

2009-04-03T11:02:00.001-04:00

I've got the rainy blues here today...dreaming of sun, blue skies, and new experiences. Love the warm woods and bright textiles of Saratoga Hotel in Havana, Cuba.

Sneak Peek

2009-03-25T15:54:00.000-04:00

The new collection has taken shape. These won't be up for sale on my site for awhile, they will be in shops first and transition into my site as a Fall/Holiday collection. New tea towels, new 12x16 pillows (all bursts of color) and drawer liners...plus a new scented product that's curing right now and will debut in a bit. Off to price and design a catalog.

A brand new me...

2009-03-21T18:28:00.000-04:00

I took a look at what moves me in terms of decor and found I came right back to what I already know. Texture. So my new product pictures are based on texture, shape, and mood. I'll proably be changing my website to reflect this is a few months but I'm using these realizations to develop my brand. Very, very much into warmth and lots of texture. More to come soon...

Seriously Simple Cooking

2009-03-15T11:37:00.001-04:00

This is my absolute favorite new cookbook. I love to do my version of "fancy" cooking, which means it's actually really simple but I make it look fancy. Today I'm making the lemon garlic chicken and adding my own side dish of roasted butternut squash with onions and red potatoes. Seriously Simple is here.

here comes the sun....

2009-03-12T11:25:00.000-04:00

little darlin'...here comes the sun. finally got the sunlight i've missed so much streaming through and took some better pics of the notepads. the catalog pics will have to be taken outside when it's warmed up. i had so much fun making these, I've decided to give them a go in the etsy shop.

The Boss of You

2009-03-11T18:15:00.000-04:00

Just poked around online and found out that "The Boss of You" has a blog as well. I haven't read the book as yet, when I find the 25th hour I'll be sure to do that, but I'll definitely peruse this site in the meantime.

It's a small blog world...

2009-03-10T15:43:00.000-04:00

Design Sponge features Ink & Peat house tour- click over to Ink & Peat blog called Housemartin- officially addicted and reading back posts- Ink does feature on SF stores, including Stem one of my favorite retailers-scroll through Stem pics and come across one inlcuding my drawstring laundry bag. Must love blogland!

Wholesale Advice

2009-03-10T15:19:00.001-04:00

I wrote a biz ladies post for Design Sponge about wholesaling your work through tough economic times, but its certainly applicable at all times. It links to my indie design blog Clothes-Pin but here at Hammocks & High Tea headquarters is where that advice is applied in full.

Summer 2009 Inspiration

2009-03-08T17:17:00.001-04:00

I think Spring/Summer 2009 is one of my favorite collections. The entire story is pulled from nature:

1. It started last August as I was flying to Vegas. The day was crystal clear and the water rings of the Grand Canyon were incredible to see from the plane.

2.caribbean rain storm

3.crashing waves

4.natures creatures

5.coral reef

6.arca shell- this became one print that combined this shell, the inside of a mussel shell, with the grand canyon rings. I started researching shells and just combined them all.

Playing with a new product

2009-03-08T16:03:00.000-04:00

warm but very cloudy day :)

These are some notepads I'll be testing at Shecky's on friday. I made journals last year for NSS and although they got great reaction from press and stores I never put them for sale on the site, a few stores got the screen printed journals. I've reimaginged them and will test them out at the show. I love them as notepads with the vintage, barely there graphics and flat printing makes them so much easier to produce. Think I'll do two more less floral styles to add here. Top right is pearlescent paper so excuse that it's catching the glare.

Chirp Chirp

2009-03-01T19:57:00.001-05:00

I tried to avoid it as long as I could, I really don't want to spend MORE time attached to a gadget but I've decided to try tweeting. www.twitter.com/hammocks

Green Tip- baking soda

2009-03-01T19:44:00.000-05:00

I ran out of tub scrub this weekend and grabbed the baking soda instead...whoa, the sparkle was something else! I've been using this stuff since I was a kid (grandma was big on baking soda to brush teeth) and am only now discovering just how very useful it is.

- baking soda and peroxide for white teeth (not neon just good old white)

- non toxic tub scrub

- incredibly gentle face exfoliant, I mix with olive oil for extra moisture

-great body scrub, I pour it onto my loofah with soap for an extra scrubby scrub and no scratches OR mix just enough in a bowl with olive oil and scented oils, scrub after you've showered, rinse and you're ultra soft and moisturized

-a dash in the tub to soften bath water, followed by some essential oils

Small scale production

2009-02-27T09:09:00.000-05:00

New designs in progress. One day I'll have a printer but right now I sometimes* relish the process of seeing my designs come to life.

*but most of the time I just want to send the damn thing out to be done for me*

Through new eyes

2009-02-19T18:19:00.000-05:00

It took a custom order for me to see the ikat print as a pillow. Sometimes all it takes is a fresh set of eyes....

7x7 Magazine Feature

2009-02-13T16:04:00.001-05:00

I was so excited when Rena emailed me about my tea towel in 7x7 magazine. I had no idea! The article is by ecofabulous founder Zem Joaquin and points to one of my fantastic SF retailers Stem. Here is the e-version.

Some weekend reading...

2009-02-13T15:57:00.000-05:00

I'm always looking for information that expands my concept of building a brand. Here are some great articles that I came across this week. One is fashion related which is an industry I always keep an eye on, but brand building is brand building. If you're a small biz looking to tough out this economy you must read:

How's and Why's of choosing a PR agency: http://www.prcouture.com/2009/02/09/stay-in-fashion-the-hows-and-whys-of-choosing-a-pr-agency-in-2009/ (via Ruby PR blog)

The make or break season: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/05/fashion/05SMALL.html?_r=1&ref=fashion (via Ruby PR)

Inside a fashion labels struggle to survive: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123440697707875869.html?mod=article-outset-box (via Linda & Harriett)

Sweet Coconut Chai

2009-02-05T13:13:00.001-05:00

I'm usually a green tea drinker, but I love Thai iced tea. So when I saw Sweet Coconut Thai Chai in the market I had to give it a try (excuse all the rhymes). It's so darn good! Today I brewed a pot to try my hand at the iced tea, if I can wait long enough I'll have it with dinner. If you love a tasty tea that can double as a not too sweet dessert this is it.

Lush Life

2009-01-29T12:54:00.001-05:00

I've been thinking alot about my business model and the products I'd like to make. I'm very lucky to be young enough that I can experiment yet have gotten enough press and orders to see what sells well for me. I have always wanted to have a line of body products like soaps, lotions, perfumes. But does that look too busy? Brands like Angela Adams, Orla Kiely, and Hable Construction create a bevy of goods but they all correlate. Although I do have a scented product it's still paper...would it be a connection to make more scented products or would it look scattered? Would it make sense to branch out into categories that are already selling well or is the soap/scent industry already corwded. I always think that it should only be done if I can do it better or differently. What do you guys think? By the way, I have Lush up here because I love their products. I just used a lemongrass bath bomb yesterday and I'm using the Karma Kream sparingly before I finish the entire jar in a week...so delish!

Domino Closing...

2009-01-28T13:47:00.001-05:00

I'm starting to feel a little lost. Magazines like Domino, Blueprint, and Oprah at Home have not only offered a young (or younger) look at design...they were also something to aspire to. As a small business it's been one of my dreams to see my products grace these pages someday; to be among your design peers and brands you admire...le sigh. Although I love my blogs, having a magazine that I can turn to, pull pages from, read and reread sometimes feels like a luxury. I'm not sure what's next in terms of a fun, young shelter magazine but what's next for the small brands trying to get some exposure? Let's face it...big name magazines embrace big name brands. Here's the WWD article if you're interested.

Loving old photos...

2009-01-26T12:01:00.000-05:00

I found this old photo of my mother and sister and it was just too cute to keep to myself. There are so many thing I love about it; my mothers mod shift dress, my sister in her adorable blue dress, and the capture of all that I loved about my upbringing in a little faded square. I'm thinking more & more about those days and looking to find myself someplace warmer and more tropical by years end.

P.S. The posing shadows are most certainly my beloved uncles trying to keep my big sis from running off. My sister is 11 years older than me...making this picture 41 years old. Wow! Please don't tell her I told her age :)

The news....

2009-01-19T12:39:00.001-05:00

I've launched a showroom! Simply called show:room, this is a venture that allows independent designers to be represented to retailers and press without the expense of conventional showroom fees and commissions. We are starting with a virtual space and will hopefully expand in the future to a physical showroom. I was hoping to have a full launch by the NYIGF but this will be a soft launch as most of my designers are getting their new products ready now. Check out show:room here.

Happy Holidays...

2008-12-23T17:35:00.000-05:00

One day I'd like to own a farm with a few of these running around :)

Winterhorses by yellowmermaid

Happy Holidays to all! Thank you so much for the well wishes, congrats, and just for stopping by. It's been quite a year-end for me and my little workshop. Next year is already moving full speed ahead. I'm taking a day or two off but I have a major...maja!!!..project that should be launching right aroung 1/15. Oh yeah...and new tea towels and such are in the works of course :)

Hammocks & High Tea on the Today Show

2008-12-12T10:19:00.001-05:00

Our drawer liners were featured today on the Today show! Thanks to the editors at Daily Candy for including us...sooo exciting! Check out the online version here, I'll upload the video as soon as I have it. Video is here!

Earthy Beginnings Shop Opens!

2008-12-08T11:27:00.000-05:00

Are these adorable or what? I happen to know the lady behind this new line and got to see them from start to finish. Just in time for the holidays, Earthy Beginnings has launched their collection of 100% organic clothing screen printed with water-based inks. Now this is how baby has a rocking new year!

Daily Candy & Me

2008-12-01T09:22:00.001-05:00

So for my little biz it's been a busy month. Between Lucky Magazine gift guide and the Daily Candy Everywhere feature I've been all abuzz. I don't think it will be until say...December 25th...that I'll be able to sit down and think about it but I'm over the moon excited about this step for HHT. More to come....!