all they want for christmas

toddler-wish-list

 

This holiday season is already so much more exciting than the last, with Henry + Marie being old enough to acknowledge the magic. We are savoring the season and finding so much joy in rediscovering the wonder through their eyes. All of these items are luxuries, obviously…they are two lucky little ones. We have already donated many of the kids toys and clothing to those in need. They may not fully understand why we do it yet, but it feels good and is what the season is all about, after all. We’ve fully embraced the spirit over here, and I’m sharing this list in the hopes that Santa is a blog reader. Seriously, what does he do in his off time? It’s not that far-fetched. So, dear Santa…they’ve been good. Really, really, good.

 

1…THE LAND OF NOD cottage dollhouse…they’ve been obsessed ever since I showed them mine.

2…TWIG CREATIVE wooden toy cameras…been holding onto these for christmas, I can’t wait!

3…WHISTLE + FLUTE je t’aime beanies…mommy may have ordered a matching one too (shhh).

4…DJECO wooden macarons…for mes enfants + their wooden food collection! 

5…M. SASEK this is the way to the moon…for our little bookworms + explorers.

6…JOANNE DUGAN 123 NYC book…getting the kids excited for an NYC jaunt.

7…MELISSA + DOUG wooden railway set…both henry + marie are obsessed!

8…BRIO coffee set…well, because it’s just so cool.

9…SOOPSORI wooden fishing set…we love wooden toys and this would be an awesome addition.

10..MABO KIDS organic cotton tee + leggings…these soft + cozy clothes are beautifully handmade – we’re big fans.

11..LE TRAIN FANTOME limited edition cats…these spotted friends would look so great in their new toddler beds!

 

philly creatives gift guide

philly-creatives-gift-guide

 

Every year I share gift ideas from makers + creatives in Philadelphia, in honor of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. There is so much talent in this city I could make numerous gift guides, but I’ve narrowed it down to a festive twelve. Help support these talented small business owners + creatives, as well as the artisans in your own community.

happy shopping + happy holidays!

 

1…PEG + AWL waxed canvas tote in spice // use code SPOLIA for 20% off thru 12/1

2…FORAGE HABERDASHERY lady bow in metallic gold // use code HOLIDAY for 35% off thru 12/8

3…NORMAN PORTER frontier belt // use code BUTTERBALL for 20% off thru 12/1

4…ABJ GLASSWORKS teardrop terrarium kit // free domestic shipping on orders over $75 with code thanks14

5…HONEST ALCHEMY + KING OF THE BEASTS indigo dyed wooden necklace // enjoy 30% off thru 12/1

6…HAND IN HAND SOAP orange blossom liquid hand soap + lotion // use code GIVETHANKS for 25% off thru 12/1

7…GIRLS CAN TELL eco-friendly pocket notebooks // use code YAY30 for 30% off 

8…BABY JIVES CO personalized mini cloud ornament // offering a variety of holiday deals!

9…NEUARMY SURPLUS CO waxed canvas U.S. field pouch // visit site for details

10..ZOET BATHLATIER tangier candle // use code BF2014 for 15% off thru 11/30

11..THREE POTATO FOUR philadelphia pennant // use code 3P4THANKS for 30% off thru 12/2

12..ART IN THE AGE craft spirits // spirits not sold in store but support other local talent with numerous deals in store!

 

famille summerbelle paris map

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famille-summerbelle-paris-map-black

 

The holiday season is now in full swing, and I’m reviewing my wish list – this paris paper cut map has been on it for far too long. It’s time to change that, don’t you think Santa (ahem, mr. fleurishing)?! Artist and designer Julie Marabelle of Famille Summerbelle creates these intricate designs, each with amazing detail + quirky characters. Her paper masterpieces take over 20 hours of meticulous work…check out this video demonstrating the process (and condensing it into 2 minutes). If you’re not in the market for an original paper cut, they offer printed versions as well. With an extensive collection of gifts (like these fun new house boxes), there is sure to be something for everyone on your list!

merci paris

merci-paris

merci-shop-fiat

For a memorable shopping experience in Paris, you simply must visit Merci in the Haut-Marais. From the moment you enter the courtyard, their trademark red fiat creates a cheery + modern atmosphere. The concept store opened in 2009, brought to you by the founders of my favorite French children’s label, Bonpoint. Merging design, fashion, dining, and incredible art installations under one roof is no easy feat, but they pull it off effortlessly. The best part–their net income is donated to socially disadvantaged children in Madagascar. A design mecca with a philanthropic vocation? Yes please!

merci-paris-decor

The lofty home furnishings section of the store makes my heart go pitter patter. I could have spent days devouring every item. From design classics to avant-garde conversation pieces, there is something for everyone. I wanted to buy sheets in every color of their delicious linen. While most of it is beyond the reach of my wallet, I didn’t leave without a few affordable souvenirs (I recommend the postcards, illustrated maps, and stationary items).  Of course, their online store (launched in 2013), ships to the states! Don’t miss grabbing a bite at one of the three cafés in their space…my personal favorite is the used book café, with a cozy + comfortable vibe. I still think about the dippy egg dish and rose lemonade I had, along with the delightful company of my friend Amy. My mouth is watering just looking at this photo.

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merci-cafe

Each visit is unique, thanks to their frequent floor moves and artist installations. The red fiat changes seasonally as well, and is always a fun surprise. You never know what you’ll see, from holiday decor, to boats, to a giant wig! If you’d like to see more photos, head over to steller for my latest story, and be sure to add Merci to your next Paris itinerary!

 

Merci | 111 boulevard Beaumarchais 75003 Paris

our everyday – with burt’s bees baby

everyday-basics-burts-bees-baby

 

This is our everyday…comfy clothing, raisins, crafts, daniel tiger, and plenty of smiles. We’re a happy bunch, and I’d like to think comfort has a lot to do with that. Most days we live in our pajamas and knitwear, so when Burts Bees Baby introduced their knit terry collection, I jumped at the chance to review it. They are everyday basics at their best, made of soft organic cotton, and with active toddlers in mind. My favorites are the hoodies, and I love to throw them on top of their underbees on these crisp fall mornings. Later in the day, we change into the yoga pants for our outings!

 

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