dahlias

Stationary...

2008-07-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

August is a month full of back to school preparations. Whether its your first or 21st it still is a tad nerve racking. Especially for the 2008 High School grads who will be heading to their new campuses very soon. Text messaging and emails are the preferred means of communication for these savvy new college students, but a care package wouldn't be complete without a bit of stationary....why not throw in something that may even garner a giggle or a chuckle. Our boxed note cards and lined list pads are the perfect addition. They would also be great to have handy for yourself...whether you need to jot a quick Thank You note or send a note to your friend just to bring a smile to her face....these cards are for you! And what about all of those To Do's in your life? A lined list pad would work perfect!

We also have quite a few designs in cocktail napkins...but that is for another day. We don't want to promote cocktails to college students! -Insert sarcasm here-

Each boxed set of cards comes with 2 designs (6 each).

The 2nd design in this pack (above pic)...."Good friends are like thighs....they are always sticking together." You laughed, right?!

These really are a hoot!

Definitely one of my favorites....and a great reminder!
What mom can't relate to this one?!

Heh....how many people do you know that this would be perfect for, but because of the aforementioned mood swings you can't give it to?
And a perfect one for the graduate...this was one of my sorority's favorite sayings while in college...let's be honest I'm sure they still love it...me too!

Summer Yard Sale....Surprise!!!

2008-07-24T14:21:00.000-07:00

Yard Sale

Saturday

July 26

9-3

We have been working in our storage spaces trying as usual to organize, organize, and organize some more. Much to our surprise we found some boxes of perfectly good home decor and a few holiday odds and ends that had been hiding on us! We were a tad distressed with what to do with these goodies. Sooo instead of keeping them boxed up and honestly forgotten about yet again, we have decided to set up an impromptu Yard Sale. Yes that is right...our tables are being set up outside Saturday (7/26) morning and will be filled....close to overflowing with bargains. We normally do 2 large sales a year.....but we really want to organize ourselves for real this time. So we will be slashing prices....some you may be surprised at....some we may be surprised at....don't question us, just bring your shopping purse and be ready to save some moolah! See you Saturday!

K Hall Additions

2008-06-16T20:46:00.000-07:00

We have added to our K. Hall, Pomegranate and Milk collections. Begin with the Shower Paste which will detoxify, polish, and hydrate. Then use a bar of the Triple Milled Shea Butter and Olive Oil soap....luxurious! And finish off with the 8 ounce bottle full of Shea Butter lotion...decadent!
Introduce luxury to your everyday life...with either the Milk or Pomegranate soaps!
Treat yourself to a decadent indulgence with the Milk or Pomegranate Shea Butter Lotion.

We also now have the refills for your favorite diffusers....be sure to stop in soon to refresh and renew not only your home, but you too!

Red, White and Blue....

2008-06-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

The beginning of summer often fills our social calendars with functions and gatherings for weddings, graduations and picnics. But as we near the end of June things start to calm down a bit and we are ready to prepare for our 4th of July celebrations. Its hard to believe that the Fireworks Tents are popping up around town, but its a great reminder that Independence Day is just around the corner.

We have added an assortment of place mats, napkins and runners that are the perfect color combination to dress your table for your 4th of July gathering. Our mini citronella potted candles would make the perfect place card and gift for your guests to take home with them. Plus it will keep the bugs away!

Perfect 90 inch runner for your table...picnic or dining room.

Red, white and blue citronella candles in mini terracotta pots...perfect, right?!

Need a new rustic sconce with character?

We love Geraniums....hardy and colorful....they scream Summer!

Now some may consider this the most important part of any gathering....the place where your guests' drinks rest. With the warm weather upon us, our drinks tend to sweat and need a little something to be set on. These cocktail napkins will lend a bit of humor to your table....Enjoy!

A Beautiful Saturday.....

2008-05-19T17:45:00.000-07:00

Our Spring Back Door Sale was quite a success! We hold the sale twice a year and this allows us to offer inventory we are ready to clear out to our customers at quite a savings. Here are some pics from the fun day full of savings...and we lucked out with absolutely beautiful weather!

These are the AM helpers....as in 6:30 a.m.! I am really lucky to have a wonderful family who enjoys helping out at the shop. Thanks again Aunt Phyllis, Aunt Terri, and Aunt Mary.

And the PM helpers....thanks Lori and Candi! The day got a little crazy around 4:00 and these lovely ladies helped keep me organized and packed up quickly...Thanks Again!

The side yard was full of tables with marked down merchandise. Here the shoppers are perusing the bargain offerings.

Picture Perfect....

2008-04-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

We have added a new collection of Inspiration Photo Frames to our selection. The first shipment flew out faster than we had time to take pictures to share, but we just received a new batch. These would make wonderful gifts for just about any occasion or even a nice little gift to yourself. They have beautiful quotes and are available in various matting and frame combinations. So without further ado......

Spring Back Door Sale

2008-04-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

Its closing in on that time of year again....time for your favorite shops on Main Street to start gathering and marking down some of their excess inventory and offer you fabulous savings!!!!!! There are 9 locations to save this time...so start planning your route for the day. We (dahlias) will set up in our side yard again and will have toted and marked things down for your buying pleasure. The savings will happen:

Saturday

May 17, 2008

8:00 am - ?????

Sale Locations Include:

Jake's On Main ~136 S. Main St.

Main Street Books ~ 307 S. Main St.

dahlias ~ 525 S. Main St.

Heritage Place Antiques ~ 600 S. Main St.

Maison Rive ~ 603 S. Main St.

Jansen Clocks ~ 608 S. Main St.

The Satterfield's ~ 715 S. Main St.

Main Street Marketplace ~ 708 S. Main St.

Finishing Touches by Charlotte* ~ 825 S. Main St.

*formerly This Olde House

Going Green?

2008-04-12T10:21:00.000-07:00

I love the color green, but the thought of actually going "green" well its a little overwhelming. What actions can I change that will make a difference? Where do I start.....at home, at work? Do I start small, adding a few changes here and there? Will it really affect the way I live my day to day life? Ahhhh what do I do? This is about the point I decide eh, I'll think about it later and then nothing happens, nothing is changed!

So in an effort to actually make some changes...I am going to think about it and find a few places to begin and attempt to add from there. I can hear Maria from the Sound of Music, "Let's start at the very beginning, its the perfect place to start..." And that is so true the beginning is the perfect place to start. Where is my beginning? How about at the shop, its where I spend most of my time so hopefully its where I can make the biggest impact.

In January I made the effort to introduce at least one new product that had an environmental conscience. I found some of my favorite vendors were introducing or already had products that met the requirements. K. Hall Designs offers a wonderful array of goodies to scent your home. They also are quite eco-friendly. The containers for their diffusers are made with recycled materials, they offer ideas on how to reuse their glass candle jars, their diffuser oils are available as a refill, which means the glass diffuser bottle can be reused. Their candles are made with renewable resources, good for the environment and your family.

Hillhouse Naturals introduced several new eco-friendly fragrance collections. We included the Botura Collection in our Spring 2008 Goodies. The collection includes candles made with a 100% natural soy wax blend and plant-derived essential oils. The diffusers' packaging was printed at a facility that uses 100% Wind Power.

That is a look at my "beginning" in an effort to make the world a greener place. I still have a few eco-friendly goodies that have yet to arrive. One I am very excited about includes purses, clutches, and reusable totes. All of these are made by re-purposing clothing and other fabrics, thanks Abby for directing me to them! Now my question to you.....Do any of you have simple changes that could make a difference and be the "beginning" for others?

Weddings....

2008-04-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

In 2007 four very good friends tied the knot. Two were my very best friends...one is staring her first anniversary in the face...wish her and her hubby luck, they leave for Vegas to celebrate this week. The other just celebrated her fifth month of marriage. The other two brides...well let's just say we have history....as in knowing one since we were little bitty tots and the other since Kindergarten.

Four weddings comes with four shower gifts (sometimes more), four bachelorette party gifts, and the all important four wedding gifts. While I do like to give the newly weds practical gifts from their Registry Lists. Its nice to give a meaningful gift...something that will remind them of their beautiful day.

So as the "2008 Wedding Season" gets underway I gathered photos of some meaningful gift ideas for the weddings on your calendar...Enjoy!

This would be the perfect addition to any gift...
the Bride can stow this Brag Book in her purse and be able to share her favorite photos.

"To Love and to Cherish."
A beautiful way to display the vow exchange.

"What are you doing the rest of your life?
North and South and East and West of your life.
I have only one request, that you spend it with me."
-Bergman

"People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway. If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It never was between you and them anyway."

- Mother Teresa

Two plaques with beautiful passages from the Bible.

April Showers Bring May Flowers....

2008-04-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Well in that case we are going to have quite a garden full, aren't we my friends? We don't necessarily require watering at dahlias, but we have had quite a crop of new goodies arrive. One of our favorites is a new line of hand made photo frames, brag books, photo albums, calendar holders, post-it holders, and art work brag boards.

Display your family photos in style with a new frame.

A simple reminder to always "Cherish Family"."Its not the years in your life that count, it is the life in your years."
-Abraham Lincoln

"Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters."

-Margaret Peters

Transport candid shots of your little ones with a brag book.Always have your "Good Times" photos handy with this totable brag book.

Gather your holiday or vacation photos in one spot with a stylish new photo album.

Stay organized with a quirky calendar holder

Jot down a quick note from the hanging sticky pad holder.

Clear the clutter on the front/side of your fridge by displaying the latest masterpiece of your budding artist on a brag board (or two!).

Easter

2008-03-06T13:21:00.000-08:00

We thought we would share some of our Easter essentials.....with Easter popping up on us earlier than usual (March 23) we really tried to lean more towards Spring goods, but we had to throw some Easter with glitter in there too....we couldn't resist! So here are some top favorites from our Easter selection....stop in soon to add to your collection.

These glittered greeting post cards are among the top picks for every holiday....and the Easter ones do not disappoint. There are six styles (2 each) with a total of 12 post cards per tin. They are great to frame or fill out an Easter wish for the Easter baskets on your list.

Chirp, chirp, chirp! Can you hear them calling your name? A basket full of chirping chicks...just what your Easter collection needs.

These dreamy, glitter bunnies are part of the our vintage Easter collection this year. This artist never fails to deliver pieces that are hard to resist. Both the bunny on the striped box and the egg open....soooo instead of an Easter basket this year...these can hold the candies and goodies. The pearl handled Easter bunny basket is just a classic Easter statement....done in shades of glittery ivory.This fun retro bunny box actually opens and is very festive with a palette of soft spring colors.
We wouldn't want to forget your garden.....this bunny peaking from the cabbage is on a stake and would be the perfect addition to anyone's front yard or garden sanctuary. We chose these because they can be left out long after your Easter guests have departed. Those are curly cue carrot stakes behind the bunny.....you can't have one without the other, right?!

A Glimpse of Spring!

2008-02-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

It may be hard to imagine that Spring is right around the corner. As we brace ourselves for another dose of winter weather....warmer tempuratures and Spring blooms seem out of reach. We have been fortunate enough to have a warm day here and there, but seriously a 60 degree drop in temperature just doesn't seem fair! "Cold Fronts" and "Low Pressure Systems" are 2 of my least favorite phrases at the moment. Just yesterday we had the front door open and were enjoying the outside.....now its 23 degrees out and the winds are strong enough to make your eyes water. Realistically we know it could be worse...Chicago has some ridiculous Wind Chill of -19 and the farther North the worse it gets....we know, we know. Sooo be thankful for the little things like nice warm, cozy shop, the sun that is shining brightly, and the fun new goodies that have recently arrived.

Cardboard has been the theme around dahlias recently. If you stopped in we apologize for the mess! We don't get a chance to hide too much of it...since we unpack and price right there in the middle of the shop...well we do try to contain our messes to one back section of the shop....but this week the mess basically had a mind of its own and took OVER! We are pretty much back on track...we still have a stack of boxes that are waiting to be stored upstairs until next Christmas...but guess what?! We need to reorganize the upstairs....soooo they are waiting for that to happen...procrastination in its truest form.

We think we chose some really great finds for your home. We have a garden look using burlap and shades of lavender, mixed with natural elements.

In our front room its so wonderful to see light and airy colors dominate our mantle. We have some fabulous frames, vases and candleabras in shades of aqua and lime. Combined with fresh shades of white and pink...mmmmm it just looks great.

Our K. Hall scents have been replenished and we now have refills for your diffusers....a great way to keep your home freshly scented. We also added a new scent to our Hillhouse Naturals collection. New for Hillhouse this Spring is Botura....a definite earthy scent that works wonderfully in our Garden. Botura was created with a "green" mentality.

We also received some new wall art...these are perfect to give a new attitude to any room. Choose a framed print with a different accent color....simply switch out a couple throw pillows and you have livened up your space! Here are a few shots of our finds....enjoy!

Valentine Treats and Goodies!

2008-01-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

The day set aside for "lovahs" (think Carrie Bradshaw referring to Aleksadr Potrovsky) is fast approaching. February 14 (not Febuary 15, a gentle reminder for my lovely Father) is Valentine's Day. To our modern world it symbolizes THE day to celebrate love. Its the day for our significant others to gift us with anything from the traditional route of flowers to dazzling gems. Historically speaking though Valentine's Day was not linked to romantic love, that is until the High Middle Ages, thanks to Geoffrey Chaucer (applause). This was when courtly love was in full bloom. The way the day is celebrated has evolved throughout the years, but the unexpected has always been treasured....so instead of going the traditional route and following the crowd (a.k.a. flowers) we put together a few suggestions for your Valentine's Day wish list.....feel free to share with your Valentine those items you would like to unwrap when you celebrate the day for "lovahs".

Our suggestions:

Let's begin in the City for "lovahs" Paris.....wait! Isn't this where Sex and the City comes full circle and Carrie FINALLY gets Big....for real this time! Okay enough Sex and the City interruptions:) A Parisian loving Valentine would be delighted to receive either the small canvas sketch (2 other styles available) or the Lavender scented Eiffel Tower candle perfect for relaxing.

A trio of photo frames filled with pictures of you and your Valentine at your favorite travel destinations or family photos would be the perfect gift to personalize.

A simple gold initial charm, that has a lobster clasp so it can be switched to work with a simple gold chain or a bit dressier pearl necklace (both available separately). It doesn't have to go on a necklace it can be added to any bracelet or use on your key chain. A classic statement. Another classic vintage inspired piece from our gold collection. This jewel covered locket combines perfectly with an over sized pearl extender and comes complete with the chunky gold chain. This is great for those who like something a bit different, this necklace won't be found just anywhere....it is handmade in the United States with truly vintage pieces...enjoy!

For our silver lovers (that's me!) any piece(s) from our Susan Shaw collection would be a welcome addition. These pieces are made to look chunky, but really are light weight. The artist uses a sterling overlay on brass.....so you get the quality of hammered sterling for a significant amount less AND it doesn't weigh your neck, ears, or wrist down! They come in a variation of colors including Peridot Green and Silver, Black and Silver, Brown and Silver, Clear and Silver, and a simple Silver round beaded necklace....they all have matching earrings and bracelets.

Another Susan Shaw winner...these silver chains toggle in the front with either a diamond, square, or heart silver bead (will be in this week). A simple statement that can be enjoyed everyday.

We have these great glittered cupcakes (2 styles) with Valentine's messages on them...the top lifts off. I thought this would be the perfect gift box for a Languages of Life "Love" bracelet. What better gift than a bracelet that expresses their "Love" for you in four different languages (English, Italian, French, and Spanish)! AND the cupcake has ZERO fat and calories....I'd say a win/win situation!

This framed quote would be a great reminder for any Valentine!
This Funny Valentine is for our Dee Foust fans.....Posie has quite a following and who wouldn't love to receive a glittery red container full of some candy....OR jewelry (see above:).
How about a watch in the shades of Valentine's Day? If the colored band isn't your style we have plenty of silver, two toned, and gold watches to choose from.

And finally for those who enjoy a nice glass of wine....this would be the perfect wine bottle stopper. Made of pewter it has a quality that will survive the test of time. It would be a great addition tied around a bottle of wine that has the label personalized for your Valentine.

Office Organization

2008-01-24T12:31:00.000-08:00

As I sit here sipping my freshly made hot chocolate from my neighbors at Figuero's, I am putting off the inevitable task of organizing all aspects of the shop. January and February gives us a time to slow down and reorganize ourselves after the hectic Holiday season. One key area of the shop that needs some organizational attention is my office.

My office is a decent sized space that I would love to be able to use half of as my order department....where my shipments are dropped off and where I can make a mess when pricing. I would also enjoy the opportunity to work at my desk again....it has files and catalogs piled on top of it....its gonna take some work! I am one of those persons that can get organized, but within at least 48 hours there is a minor mess and within a week I am basically back to where I started....an organizers worst nightmare (sorry Candi and Melissa!). So when a new shipment arrived with boxes full of stylish office accessories and organizers, I again went to the drawing board in creating some sort of idea of how I wanted to organize my office. I have made revisions to my earlier plans and am thinking I may be able to tackle it next week....yes I procrastinate.

I did not, however procrastinate in pricing and displaying the new goodies. When choosing items for the shop I really try to pick items that are functional and yet stylish. Soooo here they are...with a few ideas that I should put to use, but probably not until next week:)

What desk top is complete without an assortment of sticky notes? And centrally located in one spot...making your organization goals simpler....and not to mention color coordinated. Great for quick lists and notes or marking pages in your favorite magazine or catalog.

Need to write a quick note to a friend or teacher? These social notes in a coordinating flip top case are perfect to leave on the kitchen counter or the top of your desk...they're that cute! And in this chilly roller coaster weather....who wouldn't want to receive some springy colors to remind them of the warmer weather that is coming....soon I hope:)
Did you really think we would forget about your mouse pad? This is a great idea for jotting down those quick notes or ideas that seem to pop up when clicking through the web...tear away the pages when you fill one up...and you're ready to go again.
Need a stylish catchall for your monthly expenses or client files? This tote is perfect for travel, whether its to the appointment with your accountant or your clients you don't have to worry because you will make a stylish statement.
Finish your collection off with these file folders...any file drawer would be happy to give them a home....I didn't think this pattern was sooo very modern...even though the name was Modern Geometry...then we got it in the shop and I tried to fit it into several different displays....didn't work out so well. I moved some things around and saw I could mix in with the Manhattan skyline journal and flip top notes. The black and white Statue of Liberty print worked perfect...soo I think the Modern Geometry navy social flip top notes transcend gender....well they aren't sooo floral-y, right?! It also has a mini journal and file folders that coordinate. Who else forgets their Internet passwords and user names religiously? I am lucky that my passwords don't change every 30 days or whatever security measures are required for larger firms...I would be at a complete loss. This notebook is perfect to keep all your info right at your fingertips, why didn't I think of this?!

Just another color combination and pattern to choose from...
A little black book....not THE little black book, but a fun retro twist that is perfect to keep your contacts written down at your fingertips in your handbag or pocket....because sometimes your cellphone's battery poops out....well at least mine does....quite often in fact.Organize the latest photos of your loved ones in this vintage camera album...its the perfect size to slip in your purse...that much easier to show off and not having all those thumb prints.

Organize your coupons and gift cards in this vintage world traveler accordion organizer.

Did you forget that fabulous wine you tried last week with friends? What about that great winery, but the name is a bit fuzzy from your last trip to Hermann or Augusta....or if you are lucky enough Napa Valley. This book offers space to record your favorite kinds of wine, your favorite wineries, and much more. The perfect gift for your hard to buy for wine lovers.

Market

2008-01-22T13:05:00.000-08:00

Another buying trip has come and gone. We always hit the ground running....well this trip not as early as the last...we left St. Louis at 10:30 am....I did NOT have to get up at 3:00 am this time:) One thing I KNOW is that we found some great goodies....and I know I placed orders because I have a stack of Purchase Orders sitting in my color coordinated accordion file folder...stacked by ship dates. Sooooo I will share a look into our trip....the post turned out to be longer than I expected.....

Day 1 we arrive pretty much on time in Atlanta and head to the luggage carousal to pick up our luggage (mine was green tagged with a caution sign b/c I was just 4 lbs away from being charged!). Okay so you might be thinking seriously Jamie why are giving us a play by play of your trip.....I thought this was going to be the highlight reel. And to that I would like to say "Patience my dear....patience." Let me just say if you have not been lucky enough to visit the Atlanta airport.....its busy! It makes Lambert look like a small country airport...people are coming and going, from all over the globe...there is a constant hum of activity. It is not uncommon to see uniformed military members roaming around gates. So as we anticipated the arrival of our luggage on the carousal I noticed 3 uniformed military members (Army, I think) standing together. I started thinking about a Super Bowl commercial (by the way GO PATRIOTS!!!!) from a few years back....it showed a line of Military men and woman walking through an airport. The travelers in the airport stopped what they were doing to give these brave men and women a standing ovation....it brought tears to my eyes just to think about it. So let me tell you I was surprised when I started hearing one person clapping (seriously!) we turn around and there is an older gentleman part of the USO (I think) leading a line of at least 50 Military Members single file and clapping his heart out. Immediately my mom and our friend Kathy from The Homestead started clapping....we all followed suit. It was one of the most touching scenes I have had the opportunity to witness in quite a while.

We only had a couple of hours to shop on Day 1....so we used our time wisely and shopped our fashion jewelry lines that we buy and bring home with us. We have a bag full...so if you stop in and don't see something you are looking for, you are more than welcome to root through our bag of jewelry goodness and see if any of those pieces are to your liking! We also stocked up on watches....some new designs and our tried and trues.

Day 2 started off with the Temporary booths in Building 3 and we found some great things! A great new stationary line and we are adding to our hilarious Shannon Martin collection, a jewelry line that creates each piece with antique buttons and such, a handmade line of frames, photo albums, and other goodies. We also revisited our line of vintage flatware jewelry...the creator and artist Maureen has been busy repurposing flatware into wearable fashions...each piece is truly unique. We found a new line of fashion handbags and were excited to find the vintage doorknobs turned wine/olive oil stoppers have some new friends....like the Fleur de Lis finials, the golf balls (to arrive before Father's Day), pool balls, AND also using vintage flatware....these all make great gifts or are a fun treat for yourself. We are excited to expand our selection of inspirational jewelry....we are anticipating the arrival of a line in time for Mother's Day and Graduations that will help you say it all. They are truly quality pieces, such care and thought are put into the production of each one....we can't wait for everyone to see them.

We tried to wrap the day up by starting to create the 2008 Christmas Collection....but we were on overload and ended up visiting one of our favorite Home Fragrance showrooms and called it a day!

Day 3 With the intention of finishing the process of visiting the Temporary Booth floors we headed to Building 1. Now my mom may not agree, but I LOVE the Temporaries...this is where you find the fun and the funky.....those goodies that don't appeal to the masses....BECAUSE they are different....which is our goal...to offer goodies that you won't find too many other places. Building 1 is the High Design area....ahhhh goodness abounds! Now don't let me lead you to believe that there is booth after booth of amazing finds....there definitely are booths stocked full of great design elements and creative displays, but they are spaced out by other vendors who don't appeal to me....the spaced out part is where my mom finds her hidden resentment towards the Temporaries...alright let's be honest she doesn't hide it very well. We have a lot of ground to cover in the amount of time we are at the show....so we have to quickly make our way through the aisles. It is not possible to stand at one end of an aisle look down and know you won't find something fabulous.....so it is essential to travel the entire aisle and to make it a point to visit every aisle. We did visit every aisle and found some wonderful things. Here is a brief look at what we found... We were lucky enough to meet the owners and creators of K. Hall Designs...one of our most popular home fragrance lines that are created in St. Louis. We will be adding a few new scents to our collection PLUS we will begin carrying diffuser refills very soon....our first shipment is scheduled for the beginning of February. We also found some great new lines that offer wonderful elements to add to the style of your home, another line of tubs and containers covered in fun and fresh colors a stylish way to store toys or just about anything! We found a new line that just recently made its debut stateside. They have a long history in Europe and offer well priced goods that will add so much to dahlias....and your homes too! We reordered from our favorite paper line and from Maximal Art.

As we wrapped up our ordering here we had enough time to visit some floors in Building 2 and placed a few orders before closing time. We are excited about a new home fragrance line that offers unique scents and their diffusers are embossed glass....finally a diffuser that can become a design element in your home...yay! We also reordered from a favorite vendor in a new showroom for them....the poor sales guy that helped me....I think we both had headaches by the time we were done....between going back and forth from the catalog to the order form and him being as descriptive as possible....I was ready for the night to be over:)

Day 4 We started right where we left off the night before, in Building 2 trying to find some great pick up goodies for the shop. For the most part I don't like the huge showrooms in this building. They are filled primarily with gift-y gift items...not us. We love to find a great item to give to a friend, sister, mom, cousin, aunt, dad, uncle, son, daughter, whoever, but we don't want it to LOOK like its sitting 12 deep on a plastic shelf. So I think this building is easier for me because I can walk past a showroom and do a perimeter cruise to know whether I should take the time to actually go in. Let's take a brief look at what we found....We were pleasantly surprised by one line of that offers both seasonal and everyday decor....their spring items were priced right and had style! We found a new line that offers some great tees for Mom's...they will make you laugh out loud. We found some hand beaded jewelry that has an understated elegance, a great price point, and fabulous quality....can you tell I like it?! Our favorite art line did not fail to impress with their new designs. We found a new line of bath and body to introduce...fun packaging and an overall great product. We also finally ordered from a line that is straight out of France...I have been studying their catalog for close to a year.....some wonderful goodies are on the way. Okay when planning for our trip I always map out the places we HAVE to visit...E. Barrett is always on our list. Much to my surprise when I began putting our plan together I couldn't find them anywhere....I was a little alarmed. As they make the best soaps and my customers LOVE them! So I was so happy to receive a little postcard before I left letting me know that they had moved showrooms and were much more centrally located. So when I visited their new home for the first time I was relieved to see it was new and improved! I try to beat the closing sign on a showroom, but didn't make it in time!

Day 5 We start our day right where we left off and try to finish Building 2 so we can begin the mind boggling decisions of Building 1. We finish up the few floors we have left and were pleasantly surprised to find a vendor we have had before has changed their offerings again! But this time its wonderful..they are importing antiques from Europe and Asia....and their prices are awesome...I can't wait to get the items in.

We move on to Building 1 and order some goodies....they are just great staples to have for the shop. We have a dinner engagement planned for the evening, so I time it so we can visit a Christmas showroom right before closing, planning on starting here tomorrow. Little did I know my Christmas 2008 vision would come to me right then and there and I would know exactly what direction I was going to take....but it did. So we found a sales rep and started our ordering....we moved through it pretty quickly...I like to think I have a good eye and I can make a decision whether it will work or not. So feeling very accomplished we finished our Monday evening and headed to our dinner engagement.

I had been looking forward to this day....this evening really for a few weeks now. We were going to dinner with a friend of mine, Abby. We met earlier this Spring in the blog world. We have since been in contact regularly...we both are young business owners trying to make it. We are from different areas of the country and have our own styles for our shops, but we can relate to each other's struggles and triumphs. We had never before met...talked on the phone once, but that's it. We arrive to dinner and find Abby and her mom are already there and waiting for us.....we take our seats, order our frozen margaritas and get down to chatting in earnest. Talking about anything and everything....it was like we'd known each other forever. We all had so much fun.

Day 6 Our final day....We found some last minute goodies....a new line of letterpress cards. We revisited a line that offers rusty tin pockets and found some great new items from them. We also placed our Holiday orders with our favorite vintage reproduction lines.

I have a tendency to over analyze and worry that we won't have enough time while we are in Atlanta....so I booked us on the 9:30 pm flight back to St. Louis. As it turns out we ended up being ready to leave for the airport by 2:00....oops! So we hung out for a bit in order to wait for the shuttle to begin running to take us back to our hotel and then headed to the airport. We arrived home safe and sound. Until July I bid you adieu Atlanta.

Baubles for Gifts....

2007-12-01T15:05:00.000-08:00

We have added to our jewelry collection....

An array of gold initials....add to your favorite chain necklace or pick one of our simple pearl strands to complete your look!

Vintage gold pearl necklace what more can we say?!This is another classic vintage piece...simple pearls adorned with a gold scroll work charm and crystal encrusted dangle....perfect for any occasion!These chunky pearls are a nice addition to any collection....for work or play...you'll make a classic statement! Seasonal jewelry done tastefully! This simple snowflake silhouette necklace will carry you straight through the winter season or even just the earrings....and see the double layer bracelet hanging there? Yes that matches too....a complete set!

These button pins are a great gift to slip in with a Holiday card...

Most of these pieces are created with a combination of vintage and new finds....and all are handmade in the United States....a true treasure awaits!

Christmas a la Paris....

2007-12-01T14:07:00.001-08:00

As we were putting our previous post together we wanted to include photos for those Paris-loving souls on your gift giving list.....but there were tooo many! So now on to our Paris goodies.....

Let's begin with our snazzy truly vintage Pink Bottle Brush tree....not so very French, BUT was the perfect addition to our Parisian collection and shows our petite Eiffel Tower ornaments off superbly! We have had quite a few offers to take it off our hands, but sorry its not for sale this year....

A close up of our petite Eiffel Tower ornament....in all of its glittery glory!

Now you can see where the petite comes in.....look at this glittery masterpiece.

This is the Parisian edition from our new framed artwork line.....it looks like a true charcoal sketch....the frame is raised from the print to create a dimensional look.....and the scrolling is actually on the glass. Makes a truly Parisian inspired statement!

Our Fleur de Lis jewelry collection ranges from bracelets to necklace sets.....this triple layer necklace and earring set would make any Paris lover happy and singing your praises.....Merci! We think this plaque sums it up quite nicely.....and we still have our collection of everyday Paris goodies....Gift Tags, Vintage Postcards, Vintage Magnets, File Folders, and Stamp sets.

Holiday Finds and Gifts!

2007-12-01T10:15:00.000-08:00

Here is a peek at our 2007 Holiday Collection....great gifts for your list and yourself! Enjoy!

Vintage Christmas silver topped snow laden houses go wonderfully with our hinged pewter reindeer. Rounded out with a tree snow globe...the perfect gift for your guy or girl friends! The classic etched photo frame would be a great addition to your family photo collection.
Pewter measuring spoons with stand from the Vineyards Collection, for your avid or novice chef. Throw in the spoon rest too....what vineyard themed kitchen would be complete without it?! These are a favorite of one of our favorites....Paula Deen uses pieces from the line...Our motto is you gotta trust a gal that uses that much butter and can make some kickin biscuits....right?!Our wine collection includes some wonderful cocktail napkins...which are great to have on hand for your next gathering....or a quick gift! Our favorite is...."Eat, Drink.....and who is Mary?"

An inspirational mug....who wouldn't love one of these?! A great reminder while sipping your favorite warm beverage of choice...We have the perfect add on to top this gift off....Peppermint Flavored Cocoa Mix....yummy!

The newest addition to our Hillhouse Naturals Collection...Cashmere. If you're looking to fragrance your home (or yourself) with a clean, warm scent this is the one for you.....refreshing!These prints are a great combination of vintage with a modern touch....ready to livening up anyone's space!Can you tell we've received some new prints....they are fabulous! This one is a great landscape...the print is set back from the glass to give it a dimensional feel and the glass actually has the scroll work on it......a new twist on framed artwork!These topiary prints would be great for those vaulted ceiling walls that beg to be adorned with artwork that brings warmth to your space....whether as a pair or by themselves.

Hand Painted Linens

2007-10-09T13:07:00.000-07:00

We recently received an array of fabulous hand painted linens. They are created and produced in the charming state of Mississippi and really are of the highest quality. We thought we would share a few photos of them with you. So here goes.....

A great Birthday gift!!!

Great Hostess gifts....choose your color....

Matching coasters....your gift is complete!
This would make a perfect housewarming gift OR wedding gift. Actually I will be adding this to a wedding gift I am putting together for this weekend...sorry Sarah don't look!

Halloween Goodies.....

2007-10-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

We thought we would show off some of our favorite Halloween goodies that are still lurking around the shop....we really don't have much left, but these are some of our favorites.....

A spooky Skeleton Candy Holder......

Vintage letterpress Monster Party invites....

Glitter pumpkin and a witch's hat....a whimsical Halloween my pretties!!!

A Haunted House Pillow....do come in...muawhahaha!

Stop by to pick out your favorite Halloween goody...get them while they last!

We've Moved.....Things Around!

2007-10-09T11:10:00.000-07:00

Whew we have been working our buns off this past week...between great ideas and prepping for the Back Door Sale....let's just say we are happy to have things in place, at least for now and the sale over with. We have cleaned and moved and moved and cleaned many, many corners of the shop...some are barely recognizable now. When we get the itch to redo we can't wait, so the destruction began...one of these days we will remember to photograph our way through the messy work that goes with rearranging, but not this time.

We wanted to highlight and expand the Holiday section, so we transported our Holiday goodies to the front of the shop...this included our beautiful mantle we unearthed this summer. Actually it was unearthed for us and we were pleasantly surprised by the find awaiting us in an attic just a couple blocks away....thanks again RoseMary! Our Holiday corner looks perfect and inviting in the front room....lights are twinkling and the holly is starting to come out. Be sure to stay tuned because some of our fun vintage Holiday treasures will be arriving this week....oooh we are excited!

Since we moved the Holiday area from the very, very back room, we were stumped as to what would fill the void. But never fear....we are creative mind you! Our back room is now a peaceful retreat full of our bathroom goodies and accessories. Honestly we don't think this room has ever looked this good! It only took us a year and a half to figure out what fit in this room. Believe us it has been a baby room, a kitchen area, a sale room, and the Christmas room....but now its perfect, cozy, and smells wonderful. It is now the home of our Fresh Linen Collection and our E. Barrett soaps...of course our Ocean Soap has taken centerstage, between the wonderful scent and the absolutely perfect turquoise color its no surprise!

We also moved our new favorite K. Hall Designs line to the window lined with shelves...it looks wonderful! It showcases the frangrances and allowed us to use colors that coordinate with the Fall season...it reminds us of a masculine study....well as masculine as dahlias can get:)

Our wine finds and black buffett were also transported to a new area and really give depth and character to a niche in the shop that has been problematic for us. Its amazing the new feel the shop has taken on by just moving a few pieces. We are not completely satisfied because we do still need a couple new pieces of furniture...the corners are pretty easy to spot, but overall the shop looks fresh and ready to receive our new goodies that are on the way!

Parisian Inspiration....

2007-09-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

I do not know what it is, but Paris calls to me! Its a place I have not had the chance to visit (yet!), but hope to someday. I love the architecture that fills the city, the history that is in every nook and cranny, and the chic and sophisticated style that the city oozes. For now I am content to fill a little niche in my shop with Parisian inspired indulgences.

Some of my favorites are part of a fabulous paper line we carry...they have some of the absolute BEST vintage graphics I have had the privilege of finding. We just received more of the Paris 2008 Desk calendars (we sold out of our first shipment!) and if you want one I would hurry....we can not get anymore this year. We also have a limited number of the large sized calendars left!

Make a statement and personalize all of your gifts with our Parisian inspired gift tags...they are a must have! The assorted Parisian scenes on magnets are a favorite too....keep them for yourself or slip one in with the next card you give someone....a little touch of Paris for the recipient. We have an assortment of other Parisian goodies for you....so be sure to stop in and pick out a few to treat yourself....see you soon!

K. Hall Designs

2007-09-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

We have been busy this week, rearranging and making room for the new items we have received. We are featuring our new Home Fragrance line from K. Hall Designs for this post...we are so excited to have this line in the shop. K. Hall is a fabulous line that is celebrating its 10th year offering products that soothe and relax. All of their products are made in the United States and the majority are created in St. Louis, MO (U City).

K. Hall strives to make their products as naturally as possible and still allow them to have a shelf life. Their products are a minimum of 95% natural and most are a higher percentage than that. They use both 100% essential oils and a blend of essential and other oils. Utilizing this philosophy allows their frangrances to smell "comforting, familiar, fresh, and real." As opposed to smelling synthetic or fake.

Their candles are an all vegetable blend with a good quantity of soy included. They also blend with other waxes to have a denser wax to offer for their candles and these products are produced by American Farmers and is a 100% renewable resource. To top it off they use an all cotton core wick....so there are no worries about burning your new candle. Your new candle will burn for approximately 60 hours. Here is a tip from K. Hall to aid in the effort for a "greener" environment: After your candle is done burning, clean it out and use it as a drinking glass.

We also offer K. Hall diffusers, they were actually one of the first domestic companies to hand make diffusers. So needless to say they have been able to find the best elements that allow them to create a truly fabulous product. Their diffusers are made with many natural oils and they do not add extendors or enhancers. Your diffuser will last four months on average, but it really depends on the make up of the individual oils used for the diffuser. They offer a few tips to prolong the life of your diffuser: keep out of direct sunlight and away from vents.

We have a nice selection of scents to choose from, the scents include: Moss, Flax-Linen, Milk, Lavender, Pomegranate and Cypress and Cassis. Our favorite right now is Pomegranate, what will yours be? Stop in soon to find it....see you soon:)

Fall Backdoor Sale!!!!!

2007-09-05T10:50:00.001-07:00

We will be holding our Fall Backdoor Sale on Saturday October 6, 2007 from 8 am - ??????.
Be sure to visit us early to ensure you find the BEST deals!
Several other shops will be participating.....

The Homestead 401 S. Main
Maison Rive 603 S. Main
Jansen's Clocks 608 S. Main
The Flower Petaler 620 S. Main
Main Street Marketplace 708 S. Main
Enchantments 809 S. Main

We look forward to seeing you!!!!!!!

We're baaack....

2007-07-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

Well readers....we have returned! Now you maybe wondering where did we go? Let me put you in the know :)

Let's go back to Thursday July 12...it is 2:45 a.m. and my alarm is going off! Not only do I have a 6:00 a.m. flight to catch...I am finishing up my house/dogsitting duties...and arriving at my parents' house by 4:15 to leave for the airport. I arrive early (not usual for me in the least!) and we set off for the airport...we arrive before the security gates are opened to get into our terminal...maybe we were a little TOO anxious...but better safe than sorry (or in our case better tired than late!). We finally board our plane and we notice it is after 6:00 and people are continuing to file in...seriously do they really hold the plane if you are running late? We find out no that isn't the case...apparently there is a bit of a scuffle at security! People throwing punches...yelling...and one tries to walk past security! Okay so better safe than sorry really does seem to be true...

Surprisingly we arrive in Atlanta as scheduled...8:40 a.m....we head to pick up our luggage and then make our journey to the Marta...for our ride into the city. Now I am going to fill you in on a phobia of mine...escalators...now I have to ride them the entire time we are at Market...I doubt a day goes by when we don't ride an escalator...I can handle those...they are regular...floor to floor. The ones I am referring to go on FOREVER...you have to ride it for over a minute...the ones that bring you up from the Marta at Peach Tree Center...my palms sweat and my breathing turns shallow...I kid you not! So I found a way to cope with the inevitable ride up from the Marta...I stared at my feet...and didn't EVEN think of glancing up or down...it WORKED....now I don't have to worry about that again until January...whewww!

So on to the important stuff (enough about me!)....we start our day in Building #3...this is where we find our baubles...now most we can buy and take with us...but we do have a few lines that are strictly order...which is good too! As we load bag after bag on to our rolling briefcase...we decide to journey over to Building #1, 20th floor and start checking out the showrooms there.

Brief interruption....Market is made up of 3 buildings...#1 (Merchandise Mart) has 20 floors...this is where we find our holiday showrooms and home decor items. Building #2 (Gift Mart) has 18 floors...this is where we find nice lines that offer small items at lower price points (usually). Building #3 (Apparel Mart) is home to jewelry and accessories...it never seems to fail to be the busiest of all 3...if you don't like crowds good luck in Building #3. Buildings #1 & #3 have floors for temporary boothes to be set up...see below for more on this!

We shop until the 11th hour (really just until 6)....we finally go check into our hotel, get a slice of Pizza from Peach Center Mall...and fall into bed by 9:00 p.m....the sun had not fully set yet...but we were TIRED!!!!

Friday morning finds us refreshed and rejuvinated and ready to find some great stuff! We start off in the temporaries...and find some truly unique items that we are VERY excited about! I for one found a whole new appreciation for the Temps...we ordered from lots of new companies! We then head back to Building #1 around 5...we have until 8 this evening for our shopping pleasure...AND we use every minute!

I had originally thought to tie up any loose ends in my Fall/Christmas orders, but after looking at the new things out...I just felt that we had done a great job of ordering in January and we were finished with Fall/Christmas...so I placed my Spring 2008 orders...ooooh I am sooo excited about the things I have ordered so far...to be unveiled beginning of Feb 2008:)

Alright really Saturday on is just a blur to me...we were there until Tuesday evening...I know we ordered some great things...and got some AWESOME ideas...So I will fill you in on some lines we picked up...a vintage letterpress line (the cards are cranked out by hand!)....a new fragrance line with candles and diffusers that are created just across the bridge in University City, MO....some pewter accessories...great vintage doorknobs repurposed into wine stoppers (LOVE them!)....AND the list could go on and on...but you will just have to pop in to see me from time to time through the rest of the year ;)

Oh and sorry I forgot to snap some shots for you...I WILL remember in January...promise!

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!

2007-07-03T15:53:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone enjoys their holiday and remembers how lucky we are to be able to live our lives as we choose...and have the freedom we do! Most especially remember those who are serving NOW...they are sacrificing for US. Please offer a prayer for a 24 year old St. Louis soldier who was killed in Iraq just 2 weeks ago. THANK YOU Lt. Dan Riordan for your sacrifice...we are FOREVER grateful!

Our Favs...Right Now!

2007-07-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

I thought I would fill the pages with some of our favorite things at the moment! Enjoy!

This FRESH colored striped & polka dot quilt will freshen ANY room with a new look!
Queen Size Quilt with 2 Shams and a Filled Neck Roll Pillow.

Imagine the possibilities.....

Yes that is Christmas in July...but the beauty is the mantle!
Thanks to RoseMary for unearthing this gem hidden in her attic....we Love it!

Flea Market Finds

2007-05-28T13:44:00.000-07:00

Well its been a little over a week since we went to Bloomington AND.......we have redone many sections of the shop! If you visited during the past week you saw our creativity in process and the mess it made, but now the shop is so beautifully put together...we can rest for awhile.

Whenever we make our flea market ventures we are never really sure what we are looking for, when something catches our eye and its priced right (or we can get it to the right price) we buy it! There however are a few pieces that I always keep in mind that I want for the shop. I have wanted a mantle with columns and a mirror for the front room of the shop for over a year now. I have seen a few I like, but they are usually out of my price range. I am so happy to say I found one affordable enough to take home with me....and it looks GREAT in the front room. It has a beveled mirror that goes with it...its PERFECT! I love love love it...I am going to paint it white for the time being....but as with many of the pieces they always seem to be painted black by some point...you never know when I will change my mind.

We are also in need of some larger cabinets....but that will have to wait until next time (hopefully next month). We found a few odds and ends...a black and white toile upholstered bench, an old trunk, a small end table, a set of doors, a white frame, and a mirror. So here are some of the pieces loaded and strapped down in my borrowed truck (Thanks Dad!) for the 3 hour journey home.

There are so many reasons to go to Flea Markets, but for me flea markets are just wonderful for my soul. I am in my element! I love the whole process...arriving wondering what you will find and then walking in and out of barns, up and down rows of tents and boothes. Looking for those pieces that catch your eye....looking at something and figuring out how you can use it....the key to this is not neccessarily what it is intended to be used for, but what YOU can use it for! My least favorite part of the process has to be the loading of the truck phase...its like putting a puzzle together....and then you have to figure out the best way to arrange the bunges so your finds don't fly away while you are tooling along the highway. Then the fun begins...during the drive home I rearrange the shop in my mind...ok so if I move this, then I have to move this, and then if I move that, where will the other thing go? This is is what goes through my mind the whole drive home. Once it is figured out I am ready to drop off the items at the shop and clean them up just a bit....and maybe paint a few pieces. Then the destruction process begins. Whenever something is moved in the shop, something else has to be moved to make room AND then something else has to be moved to take the spot of the previous item and as you can imagine it goes on from there. VERY rarely does it occur that two items can just be swapped out...at least for me that never happens! This is really where the fun is...I get to see if my vision was everything I thought it would be.

Doors and windows ALWAYS catch my eye because they offer a way of dividing a room and still allow light to filter through. Trunks and crates...not the kind that have been redone and look shiny and new, but the ones that have that old weathered look to them. Trunks make fabulous coffee tables and storage bins. I love putting old crates on the walls in a grouping or by themselves for shelves to display on....old drawers are good for this too! Chairs are always a great find...they can be used by themselves in a corner with a quilt draped over them...or find different types to place around a dining room or kitchen table. Chairs can be hung on a wall or placed on a table to add heighth wherever it is needed.

Alright enough chit chat about great flea market finds....lets see the transformation the shop took on thanks to a trip to the flea market.

The infamous mantel....isn't she pretty?????

BACKDOOR SALE SAT JUNE 2

2007-05-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

Dahlias will be participating in the semi-annual Backdoor Sale on Saturday June 2, 2007. There are 14 shops participating...we begin at 8:00 am. We will be reducing prices on various items from our inventory...you never know what we don't want to look at anymore! All of our sale items will be in our side yard. Be sure to visit us early and find the BEST deals!

What A Difference Flowers Make...

2007-05-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

It's amazing what a difference a little potting soil and geraniums can do! Thanks to my wonderful mother, we now have vibrant red geraniums and lush greens in our barrels on our front sidewalk. This is a huge improvement from the mud that filled them just a week ago...I couldn't wait to get to the shop today to take some photos to share. It really makes a big difference on the first impression of the shop. My window space is so limited it is hard to convey what the shop is all about...we do keep our extra door open with a picket fence...when we can, but still people will walk right on by. So the RED geraniums grab their attention...woohoo!

Flowers are a wonderful thing! They can brighten a mood at any time just by looking at them...and this weekend Main Street is hosting...St. Charles in Bloom! A wonderful event to bring all levels of flower lovers together to appreciate the true beauty only flowers have. There is an abundance of festivities taking place Saturday...Maypole and Spring Dancers, Working Artists, Flower and Plant Care Advice, and drawings for prizes donated by varies greenhouses and nurseries! Be sure to visit Saturday to participate in this annual festival and to experience the difference flowers make!

While you all are enjoying the Flower Festival....or whatever wonderful plans you have for the weekend, I will be going to my first real flea market of the season.....ahhhhhh! I am so excited..I have been having withdrawals since September. I have decided to photograph our way through Saturday....so stay tuned the next blog will be all about my adventures in Central Illinois...

dahlias...living my dream

2007-04-29T14:25:00.000-07:00

Many times I am asked "Oh, are you Dahlia?" While the truthful answer is no...I am Jamie...it seems Jamie and Dahlia have become one and the same. The shop has taken over my life (which is not necessarily a bad thing)...I work 7 days a week, but am lucky to have a huge family that wants to help out (minus pay might I add) so that I can get away for certain events, but what you see in the shop is me. I choose the products to purchase, I scour flea markets and barns looking for the perfect display pieces, I unpack the boxes, I set the displays, I run the register, I maintain the website, I do the marketing (the meager amount I can do), and....well lets just say I could go on and on! While some may see these examples as a rambling whiner...I am not whining (rambling, probably). These are the things I do on a daily basis...these are the things I LOVE to do on a daily basis.

While being an entrepreneur isn't all roses...I have my seriously stressful times...its an amazing thing! In college I took a class on being an entrepreneur...we had entrpreneurs who were alumn from Southeast Missouri State University (my own alma mater) come and speak to us...it was great to hear their trials and tribulations. One thing that always stuck with me was an alumn that owned a trucking company said that owning your own business does make you the boss, but the boss is responsible for EVERYTHING to do with the business... The class also gave us a list of pesonality characteristics that most entrepreneurs possess...well I didn't have many of the characteristics. I think entrepreneurs are just that, entrepreneurs...I don't believe there is a certain personality mix that will be a guarantee. I believe that you have to have a passion for what you will be doing...because it will be your life (especially in the initial stages) and you have to be willing to work (and work and work), but it is so worth it!