ECLECTIC Design Source

And So It's Settled...

2012-01-26T14:49:00.000-08:00

...Well, our reception venue that is.After an exhaustive search of what seemed to be every single possible venue that was not a banquet hall, restaurant, or the like, we found that even the coolest places were maybe a little too restrictive for what we wanted to do. As a DIY gal, its hard to lay something so dear to us in someone's hands. We are back where we started: the back yard.Its prefect, really. Half of it is groomed, half of it is prairie grass. At dusk our guests will get a show when the swallows come swoop in for their supper of skeeters from the tall grass. And since our theme is a dark, Tim Burton-esque Alice in Wonderland, we've just got to be outside! There will be bunnies everywhere (or at least plenty of photos of my Sweetpea, RIP), croquet, photo booths, and plenty of "curiouser and curiouser" to be had.If you like weddings (or just parties in general) and want to follow my inspirations for the day, take a peek at my Pintrest page HERE.

"I Love That Wallpaper"

2012-01-18T07:49:00.000-08:00

This is something we hear daily as people pass our cash wrap. "That is such a beautiful print! Where can I get this?".

At Eclectic!

Yes, the wallpaper on our cashwrap is by ROMO, who also has a line of complimentary fabrics (see the swag behind the cash wrap) whose style runs somewhere between transitional and contemporary. We have used it in traditional homes with outstanding, inspiring results.

Their fresh patterns bring a breath of fresh air into any room. I love them so much that when I was designing Jockey's flagship store in Kenosha, I chose paper from the Mirabel collection to go in each fitting room.

Here is some visual eye candy to get you started on a ROMO journey. Let us know what you think!

SALE, SALE, SALE!!

2012-01-18T07:44:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure about you, but I think sales should be something really spectacular and special- our culture has kind of conditioned us to wait for things to go on sale during the Biggest Sale of the Year (which, oddly enough, happens every weekend it seems).

Very rarely do we have a proper sale, but rather, offer a rewards card for our customers so they can choose which items they want to receive a discount on. We also like to do secret sales for those on our email list and Facebook/ Twitter followers. Sometimes we may have an unannounced, fly by the seat of your pants type promotion just because!

But, this sale is an event...

Many of the downtown merchants are participating in this sale, bringing some outstanding merchandise at yummy discounts in order to make room for some fresh spring products.

So, bring a friend (and your money!) tomorrow night and come say hello!

2012-01-17T10:50:00.001-08:00

Unless you've been living underground in a bunker, you've probably heard of Pinterest, the online inspiration board site.

What's the hype all about? Well, for one, its just super simple to use, its a great tool for us and our clients alike. We usually tell our clients to pull pictures from magazines of rooms or elements they like so they can see a pattern emerging. Instead of filling a file folder full of clipping, you can "pin" pictures to your "board". Much neater and a heck of a lot more organized.

On the flipside, we use it to create boards for our clients so they can see color palettes, furniture, rugs, lighting fixtures, etc. Since its online, there is no wasting of paper and the client can revisit it in the comfort of their own home as much as they like.

Try it out- if you need an invite just let us know and we'll send one your way!

NYC or Bust

2012-01-09T10:28:00.001-08:00

We're getting ready to shove off to NYC this month on a little buying/ research trip. Generally, we don't to go to any midwestern shows because that is where all of the other stores head to. We spend countless amounts of time researching products and finding unique lines that are not carried my many local (and sometimes national) stores. The thrill of the hunt is what keeps us motivated and inspired.

We go with no real game plan, which may sound counter-productive, but if you're focused on looking for A, B, and C, there is a good chance you'll miss out on a lot of other really cool stuff along the way.

A "successful" trip isn't measured by how much we order or how many lines we find. Some trips we may find 10 new lines. Others, we may only walk away with one. Its measured by how inspirational it was; pretty much any time you can leave the mid-west in the winter you can be assured that you will find plenty of inspiration.

One thing I am always on the hunt for is new home fragrance lines. I find that there is something so primal and alluring about scent, and I don't think I am alone in that. We have so many customers that tell us they have an entire closet full of candles- one for every mood and occasion. I am the same way with perfume and have quite an love affair with Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab and Black Phoenix Trading Post. Interested? Come in and we'll chat... I have a ton of scents on hand!

We'll also be looking for interesting accessories that spark conversations; objets, pillows, accent furniture, vases, floral stems... the list goes on and on.

Can't wait to report back on what we find!

Call for Venues

2011-12-30T08:13:00.001-08:00

Now that the mad, insane holiday rush at the store has slowed to a much more manageable pace, its come to my attention that my wedding is a mere 6 months away. Which means the reception is only 7 months away. Or more. Who knows, we haven't even gotten that far.

The wedding portion is easy, we're pretty much just showing up. Its Maui, you can't add much to Maui to make it better than it already is. The whole point of doing it there was to purposely keep it very, very, very small, relaxing, and stress-free.

However, the reception is another topic all together. Being a practical Virgo, I'm trying to keep it reeled in and not spend a stupid amount of money. But, my love of parties and transforming spaces makes that difficult. I have a theatrical side I desperately try to repress.

There are a few issues we keep running into it seems:

1) 12am curfew. Which, I'm sure is plenty of time, but its never fun when the record stops and the lights come on and everyone looks all sweaty and gross. Its not a pleasant note to end the night on.

2) Set caterers. Yes, I'm sure this is to protect us from flaky business people but the only thing I may get bridezilla over is the flippin desserts. I desperately want my cake from Bleeding Heart Bakery and a bleepin table full of delicious macaroons from Alliance Bakery. I would like the freedom to choose my own foodstuffs.

3) Banquet halls. NO, NO, NO. I'd rather do nothing than have one at a hall. It may work for some people, but I flat out refuse to have it at a hall or country club. Too much carpet.

If you have any recommendations for unusual, non-lame, unique venues that have a laid-back, garden party vibe with some outdoor space, let us know! We're all ears!

VIP Holiday Preview Night!

2011-10-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Skip the mall this year and come enjoy a fun night of holiday cheer!

This is a PRIVATE event not open to the public. Please RSVP:

Looking to Get Your Work Featured? A Lil Note to Artists

2011-09-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Before we opened, we knew that we wanted to partner with local artists to showcase their work in store as part of our commitment to finding unique items for the home.

For those of you out there who are interested in getting your work in a store, here are some tips to up your chances.

1) Do not drop in unannounced with your stuff. This is rule #1 for a reason and is the most important one to keep in mind. Running a store has a lot of "behind the scenes" work, so even if there aren't customers present, it doesn't mean the owner/ manager isn't busy working.

2) Research the store before sending any sort of information. What do they sell? What are their price points? What is their aesthetic? Are they Modern? Traditional? Whimsical? Compare it to your own aesthetic.

3) Quick, friendly emails are much preferred to cold calls. See #1. Just give a brief explanation on how you found the store, what you like about it, a quick note about you and your work and a link to your site. If you don't hear anything, send a friendly reminder a week or two later.

4) Be professional and organized. Have an inventory system for your work; spreadsheets that have identification for each piece which include description, price, quantity are much appreciated.

5) Know that most stores will be more inclined to feature your work if it is on consignment instead of buying it outright.

6) Be flexible. If things are not selling, offer to bring new selections by.

7) Network. The store will likely promote you and your work on their own, but take matters into your own hands and reach out to your own network. Send email blasts with pictures, post things on your social networking sites, etc. The more people that know about where your stuff is, the better chance you have of it selling.

8) Be easy to get a hold of. Check voice mail and emails often and respond quickly.

9) Be friendly! Its easy to promote the person behind the work when they are likable!

10) Have fun. Nuff said!!

What Does a Young Designer Look for in a Starter Home?

2011-09-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

Mass hysteria.

As if planning a destination wedding and a local non-reception reception along with running a store and building a brand were not enough, I thought it would be fun to house shop!

The process began last year with a really, really, REALLY stunning bungalow. We're talking deep, dark wood everywhere, a gorgeous fireplace, original black and white tile in the bath, wood floors throughout (no carpet- hooray!!). Because it was the first home we looked it, we were slow to act and less informed than we are now and it got away. But, now that we are getting married next June, the hunt has become somewhat of an unhealthy obsession. Good thing our agent, Sue Gieske is ah-mazing.

We've also looked at a Spanish Revival, a Victorian, a Farmhouse, another Victorian with a really neat mansard roof and 10' ceilings (and kitty pee-pee galore), and I am sure there are others I have forgotten over the year.

For a young couple, I think we might be a touch unusual because we don't want something that has been done by someone else. We don't want something new, and in fact refuse to live in something built past 1960. Nor do we want something large. Granite and stainless just are not our thing, and we'd generally prefer to keep it original than replace it with something new, wood floors are a great example.

What we really want versus what we can realistically do has become much wider apart than what we thought. We love charm- built-ins, arched doorways, dark wood trim, the little touches that homes built today seem to lack. We knew there would be a compromise made and have come down to our essentials.

Must Haves:

- 2 car garage. The man needs a place to tinker with his motorcycles
- 3 beds: one for a guest bedroom, one for an office/ craft room, one obviously to sleep in!
- Wood floors. So much nasty lurks in carpet.
- Some yard space: this is probably the biggest compromise we'll have to make. We'd love a large lot for my gardening and for....chickens. Who, by the way, are really entertaining pets. We've had them before. But, being a starter home it seems like either you get a nice home with no yard, or a nice yard with a home that needs A LOT of work. We're all about sweat equity, but we have to be realistic.

Think back to your first home- what was it like? Do you remember looking for home? What were some of your criteria, if any? How much of what you wanted did you get and how much had to wait until your next home?

Sharing that kind of info is wonderful anecdotes for those starting out, like me!

Wedding Ideas for Girls Like Me.

2011-09-14T07:29:00.000-07:00

In case you were confused, it is Mary (me) writing all of our blogs, social networking tidbits and such.

On that note, I got engaged this summer and thought I would share the progress and process of elimination for planning everything from stationery to venues for girls like me.

Who are girls like me?

Well, you're probably creative and very hands on- you like to do projects and make things feel personal and special, but maybe don't have the time to do it. Maybe you feel disconnected from the whole "bridal experience" and don't really like the fluff, fanciness, or formalities of so many weddings. Perhaps you actually put a lot of stock into the actual marriage instead of the wedding/ party aspect of it. The party is the bonus, not the focus.

If you're SO not into banquet halls, linen covered chairs, DJs with awful music, ladies we have a lot to talk about. I hope to offer you some ideas to ponder and organizational solutions.

...Just a little background info:

Long before there was an Eclectic Design Source to speak of, my mother (Margaret) was a floral designer with her own business. From a super young age, I would help prep flowers, wash buckets, haul boxes, and just be an assistant to her weddings. Over the course of 15 years, I saw A LOT of weddings. They were all beautiful in their own right, but none of them ever resonated with me.

I've always been a free spirited tom-boyish type and never ever dreamed of my wedding, there were far more important things for me to be concerned with, such as building a teepee from branches and bark, obviously. As I got older, it became apparent that "girls are supposed to dream of their wedding and feeling like a princess", a sentiment I never shared. For me, it felt like one of those odd adult fibs like "High school is the BEST time of your life!". Not true. Not true at all.

I started reading all of the wedding magazines and it really solidified the fact I wasn't into what I was seeing. It all felt really commercial, bridal, and not something I would do myself.

Then, I started combing blogs to gather some inspirational pictures. I really like these, particularly Design Sponge, even though its not a "wedding" blog. It always has really fantastic projects and interesting ideas:

A great way to keep track of ideas you like is using . Its an online inspiration board that grabs the photos you want to load onto your board, allowing you to comment, tag, and post to Twitter or Facebook. You can take a look at mine here: . I also use it quite a bit for designing for our clients, it allows them to see what we've proposed as often as they need to see it. Very helpful.

More to come, so stay tuned!!

RISE FROM YOUR GRAVE

2011-09-14T07:26:00.000-07:00

(that's an Altered Beast reference....FYI)

That's right, I figured it was time to resurrect the blog and start featuring some of the projects we're working on, products we love, music, food... pretty much just anything that tickles our fancy and is part of The Eclectic Lifestyle.

So, here we are again.

Hi!

Naught or Nice?! Our 2010 Gifty Guide is Here!!

2010-12-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

We pretty much do this for you men out there. We know you're not big shoppers, you like to get in and out in about 15 minutes, and usually wait until December 23rd at 8pm. This year though, you're going to be on the ball! And your gift will be wrapped beautifully!!

Whether your budget is "stocking stuffer" or "my goodness, you've been GOOD!", Eclectic has a great assortment of gifts for all ages and styles.

$25 and under:
-Poo-Pourri spray, gift set, or purse atomizer
-Villainess soap, Smooch sugar scrub, Whipped body butter, Kaboom bath bombs, or perfume oil (Yes, we CAN do custom baskets. We've done lots of them!!)

-Voluspa 3 wick tin in Santiago Huckleberry or Baltic Amber

$25 - $50
-Voluspa "Golden Cypress Sawara" candle, our BEST selling scent!!

-Wine rack
-"Doodle" sculpture in Eiffel Tower, Hancock Building, Golden Gate Bridge
-Michael Aram Black Orchid Mini Dish
-Villainess gift basket

$50-$100
-Michael Aram Black Orchid Convertible Frame

-A super soft throw
-Turquoise "stupa" vase
-Down throw pillow
-Mercury glass vase

$100 - "OMG you've been SOOO good this year!!"
-Peacock vase
-One of our many unique lamps
-Granite top side table
-Cyrano chair
-Luke Leather chair AKA the "marshmallow-cloud chair". (Seriously, we DARE you to sit in this and want to get up)

And there you have it! Of course, we have LOTS more in store. Gift wrapping is available. In a time crunch? Call 224-513-5413 and phone in your order, we'll have it wrapped and ready by the time you get here!

Making your holiday bright!!

-Margaret

Don't Mind the Neglect

2010-08-23T13:20:00.001-07:00

Sorry, blogger!

We've been cheating on you with the blog on EclecticDS.com. Its not that we're the unfaithful type, its just that its much easier and better integrated than you. We hope you understand and we still want to be friends.

It is our third month of being open believe it or not, and we are gearing up for fall. New merchandise is arriving even more frequently than it usually does, which means if you stop by and we're up to our eyeballs in boxes and packing materials, 1,000 pardons -its all for YOU!

We'll be getting lots of fantastic recycled glass goodies for holiday entertaining/gifts, more Villainess soaps + body butters (hoping to one day expand to their entire line of luscious perfume oil, sugar scrubs, mud masks, etc. Because we believe that if YOU feel good then everything else in your life will follow!)

We're also trying like mad to get the lovely and ultra amazing Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab into the store since we love them SO much (that might be an understatement as I patiently await the arrival of Tiki Princess and 37 imps I won on Ebay...). The way they turn literature, art, folklore into an olfactory experience is sort of in line with the way we display- its meant to evoke emotion and a sense of undefined time and space. Siiiiigh!

With September almost here, that now means

That about wraps it up!

Don't forget to come out and say hello at First Friday this September!

This Thursday is THE Day

2010-05-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

Here we are, about to open on Thursday May 20th! We went all out and it will have taken us about a month to have done all of the renovations, painting, set up, merchandising, displays, etc. What can we say, we work well under pressure!

The official Grand Opening Party will not be until probably the first Friday in June, but our doors will officially be open Thursday so stop in and say hello!

Poo-Pourri

2010-04-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

I'll admit that we have a very juvenile sense of humor, bathroom humor is among our favorite to get us giggling, which is why we had to have Poo-Pourri both in store and available at our e-boutique!

So, what is it? Well, its NOT a cover up spray that makes bathroom odors worse. It IS an all-natural blend of essential oils that you spray into the bowl before you go. It creates a film on the water that leaves the bathroom smelling clean + fresh!

Great, but does it work? Yup! I was skeptical, so I brought it on vacation where I shared a cabin with lots of boys. They were my test subjects, and what do you know, they all started asking me for the spray!

Its the perfect gift for newly-weds, college students in dorms, traveling and its the perfect size (2oz) to carrying around and will give you approx. 100 sprays!

Yes, It's True....We're Going Brick n' Mortar

2010-04-01T18:35:00.000-07:00

Oh, it has been an awfully hard secret to keep, but this past Monday we announced on our FACEBOOK page about our real, live, brick + mortar store (and there is an exposed brick wall inside, how fitting)!

Today we got the keys, took down the old vinyl decals off (bye, bye bakery!), put up some really fun spring-green wall paper on the windows so no one could peek inside...because who doesn't like a surprise?!

We were pleasantly surprised with how many friendly strangers popped their heads into our open doors to say hello, ask what we were opening, and to wish us good luck. Lots of people also said that they think our spot is the best in town, and we kinda agree :)

There is a lot of work to be done, but its fun work and we couldn't be more excited! Hope you join us when we have our big grand opening bash in May!!

New Lines!!

2010-03-26T15:16:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty darn successful day at the Mart this Monday. I know a lot of people go in with the strategy buying those days, but we like taking notes (I know, a rep's nightmare), refreshing our brains at home and ordering the following week.

I have been to the Mart as a buyer and I have worked there with a rep, and I have NEVER seen it so dead. It was kind of odd, but nice not having to battle to ask questions on product or get helped right away.

So, we found some new lines and I thought I would give you a sneak peek of what's in store. We're pretty excited, and found some really fantastic stuff!!

Super Succulents!

2010-03-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Last week, we took a little trip to Sprout in Chicago (very cute store with fantastic people, btw) and couldn't help but make a minor indulgence in their succulents and air plants.

For people who have no green thumb, and feel like they kill every living plant that comes into their home, these are pretty fool-proof.

Air plants are neat, sculptural little guys who pull most of their needed nutrients from the air. They only require a weekly, hour long soak in water (and a bi-weekly soak in fertilized water during the growing season Feb-Dec) and to chill out on their side to dry out. That's it!

Succulents are equally as easy to care for with only about a bi-weekly watering as they like to stay mostly dry.

Improve Home Air Quality With Plants!

2010-02-26T06:32:00.001-08:00

We're all for having a beautiful, comfy home you love coming home to. But, air quality inside can be worse than air quality outside due to paint, carpet, and other products. We're also for keeping the home clean without as many man-made chemical products as possible, and that's why we love recommending plants to help purify and clean your air!

Its recommended that you have a 6" plant for every 100 square feet of space in your home for optimal air quality. Here are a list of the top 15 plants for better indoor air quality:

1. Areca Palm Tree
2. Lady Palm
3. Bamboo Palm
4. Rubber Plant
5. Janet Craig – Dracaena
6. English Ivy
7. Date Palm Tree
8. Ficus Alii
9. Boston Fern
10.Peace Lilly
11. Aloe Vera
12. Spider Plants
13. Chrysanthemum
14. Heart leaf philodendron
15. Snake Plants or Mother of Law Tongue

Many of these are very easy to care for, so even the worst green thumb can grow these babies without worry! And, if you're ever in a jam about your plants you can always submit a question to us, Margaret is a certified Master Gardener and is an AIFD accredited florist- she knows her stuff!!

Welcome....To The "Man Cave"

2010-02-18T15:21:00.000-08:00

We think its archaic to believe that men aren't interested in design or what their home looks like, which is why we like to empower them with tips and products just for them. The modern man has an opinion (and voices it) on the design and furnishing of his home, and we fully encourage that.

So, for a moment let's pretend you are going to create your own special hang out space or are planning to re-do your home/ room. What are you going to put in it? What styles are you drawn to- are you traditional, transitional, contemporary, modern, industrial or maybe a unique combo?

~What's on the walls- are there photos, art work- what color paint?

~How does your furniture look- over stuffed captain chairs, sleek sofa?

~What does it smell like?

~Is there a fully stocked bar? What's your poison?

~Music playing?

~TV? (what a silly question, of course there is!)

Describe your ideal "Man Cave"!

RIP, McQueen

2010-02-11T09:40:00.001-08:00

The world will not be the same without the brilliant glow and creative spark of Alexander McQueen. He is hands down my absolute favorite designer who captures mood, emotion, a sense of time and place while peppered it with a bit of social commentary. After showing what I thought was the most amazing collection he -or pretty much anyone else- has shown, this is extra devastating. It feels like he was only giving us a taste of what lay ahead.

Perhaps you aren't familiar with his work or high fashion for that matter. I suppose its a great opportunity to expose you to it, and to help you understand what its all about.

I think perhaps the greatest misconception about couture is that "No one in real life would wear that!" and for the most part, that's true. The point of couture is not always to create something that is functional and wearable in everyday life, but rather to be a physical representation of the designer's vision. Its also used to display the amazing techniques, long hours and craftsmanship that goes into making these garments (which are made by hand, and if they are going to be purchased for private use, are made to order).

Why do people buy it if they aren't going to wear it? Well, why does anyone buy anything they like for that matter? Because they find it beautiful. Some people collect couture the way other people collect fine art. Same principal, different medium.

Here are some photos of his work. His most recent collection, Spring 2010, has been highly acclaimed and was based on what a post-apocalyptic under water society might look like. Very futuristic, very conceptual, high design... absolutely stunning results:

But probably the most recognizable aspect of the Spring 2010 show were the shoes. My goodness, if you love sculptural shoes as much as I do, be ready to flip your lid.

http://www.popbee.com/image/2009/10/alexander-mcqueen-spring-2010-shoe-collection-081009-11.jpg

^ These styles above are known as the "Armadillo" shoes and in my opinion, one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. They are about 12" tall with an interior shoe (so you foot is not all the way at the bottom like it appears) and are completely handmade.

Why We Buy

2010-02-11T06:33:00.000-08:00

I have been FINALLY reading the book Why We Buy by Paco Underhill, and to call it interesting would be an understatement. In college, consumer behavior always interested me because it tied in so closely to psychology. I love to people watch just out of curiosity, I love understanding why people do what they do, and this book is a great tool to putting the pieces to that puzzle together.

As a small business, you are always competing with large stores that have oodles of recognition, marketing, and visual presence. They can often offer product at prices small, independent businesses could only dream of.

Often, large businesses will hire someone like Paco Underhill to study their customer and report back on the findings. BUT, small businesses can offer a more tailored experience because they interact with their customer on a daily basis. A great business owner will always ask their customers for feed back and will constantly adjust their product assortment, price points, displays, etc based on customer feed back.

As a customer, the thrill of finding a "treasure" that you absolutely adore is so much fun. But when you are the retailer, selling a product to someone that they are thrilled about is even better! When you are passionate about what you do, what you sell, the way you sell it, there is no higher reward than someone telling you how much they love what you're doing.

So, tell us about some AMAZING (or, on the flip side, horrible) shopping experiences you've had. What made it so much fun? Was it the space it was in? The products they sold- what DID they sell? Was it the people who worked there? Was the merchandise displayed in a creative and inspiring manner? Or was it something else?

SHOUT OUT: What Are You Looking For?

2010-02-01T09:02:00.000-08:00

Our customers are our highest priority- always! We would like to know what's on your mind, what products you want to see more of, products or services you can't find, colors you love, brands you love, trends, styles, furniture, decor, accessories -anything!

What do you look for in an e-boutique or physical brick + mortar boutique? We love our customers and we want to know!

Classic with a twist

2010-01-22T06:14:00.000-08:00

In any design, be it fashion, interior, graphic, etc., I always appreciate something classic with a twist. Classics are such for a reason, and can serve as a foundation to do something a little outlandish or a bit out of the box.

While tooling around on the Materials Girls blog, I found these interesting pieces by Swedish company Jimmie Martin. I mean, you can't get more "classic with a twist" than these!

Thoughts?

Neat Crocheted Accent

2010-01-22T06:03:00.000-08:00

I really love pairing different patterns, textures, and styles together for an..."ECLECTIC" look. It gives a space so much interest and personality, which is what its all about, right?

Take this couch for an example (which I found on Apartment Therapy)- its got some pretty clean lines, and its got that mid-century modern feel going for it. Then, they threw a red, asymmetrical crocheted doilies on top for a unique splash of color and texture. It absolutely POPS off of that couch, which is something I love!

Apparently, you can also use it as a tablecloth/ runner!

What do you think?

ECLECTIC out + about

2010-01-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

Saturday we helped celebrate the grand opening of some friends' salon, and brought some of our candles out for people to sniff + enjoy. The results were pretty interesting! Many of the comments were "Oh my gosh, you can tell that these are such high quality!", "These are so decorative and cute!", and "I love that you can reuse them {while speaking of SKEEM}".

Overall the favorite scents were:

Voluspa: Baltic Amber- everyone agreed it was vanilla on steroids.
SKEEM: Grapefruit Zest
Voluspa: James Boyce Professional Kitchen Scrub in Herb Garden
SKEEM: Black Current
SKEEM: Sweetpea and Vanilla

Unusual materials for a ceiling.

2010-01-12T20:14:00.000-08:00

There is something about raw materials, such as plywood, that can be so interesting while keeping clean, sharp lines. It must be the texture, colors, and patterns that are natural in the material that lend itself well to those angular lines.

For example, check out this unusual ceiling in a train station in Japan, courtesy of Apartment Therapy, of course!

Pantone Names Turquoise as THE COLOR for 2010

2010-01-05T08:27:00.000-08:00

It's a little late, and I'm sure you have noticed many hues of turq popping up here and there within the fashion forward design industry. How do you feel about this color? Would you paint a wall (or maybe just an accent wall)? Add window treatments in this color? Or maybe keep it to accessories like vases, pillows, throws, art work?

I personally like the color -its so bright and cheery- but probably couldn't live with it long term. Accessories are a great way to bring in a trend, particularly a color, without the commitment. When you're over it, you can always pair it with another color, set of textures, or put it in a different room and mix it up a bit.

Voluspa Updates

2010-01-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

One of the products we have featured on our e-boutique TheECLECTICLifestyle.com is the James Boyce Collection by Voluspa kitchen candle in "Herb Garden". We love to cook and when we saw it was developed to help clear the air after a night of cooking, we hopped on board.

But, does it really work? Sure, it smells absolutely fresh and fantastic but if it doesn't do its job, then what's the point? Well, I took it for a test ride last night.

If you have ever made Thai food, you're probably familiar with fish sauce. I have a love/hate relationship with it- it definitely makes things taste 1000x better, but it also smells putrid. And that is putting it lightly, its seriously nasty.

After cleaning up, I lit all three wicks and let it do its thing. Within a few minutes, the scent was drifting into the living room creating a really great scent that was clean but not overwhelming. In about a half hour, the wax had completely melted into a liquid layer and burned clean and evenly.

It worked. Really well! And this is in a kitchen without an exhaust fan (the reason why I tried the candle!)

Easy DIY Idea

2009-12-31T06:59:00.002-08:00

We're all for doing things ourselves, there is a certain satisfaction that comes from doing a project from start to finish with your own hands and ideas. But, we also are aware that many people might feel like they don't have the know-how or skills (or maybe tools!) to do projects themselves.

Here is an easy project that even the most novice DIYer can do.

Salvaged Dresser Drawer Storage Unit:

You can easily find dressers that are cheap at flea markets, garage sales, even Craigslist. The great thing about this project is you'll only need 1 tool, a philips head screw driver to take off the knobs, and perhaps some sandpaper and paint of your choice, and you can rearrange the drawers into different configurations whenever you like! The example above is from Re-Nest.

Be Not Afraid of Color

2009-12-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

We say it all of the time, we love color. I mean, we really, really love color. I actually find it enjoyable to thumb through a Pantone booklet dreaming up names and uses for their colors.

On a trip to Lowe's to find the perfect shade of navy blue for a newly converted media room, I discovered how scared people can be of color. It was an unusual conversation with the paint man that went a little something like this.

I was in the zone scouring the samples for the right shade of navy. I had one in mind, but just wasn't seeing the one I wanted. Then, my thoughts were interrupted by...The Paint Man.

Him: "Soooo, looking at paint samples, huh?
Me: "Yup!"
Him: "Those are some pretty dark colors you picked out."
Me: "Yup! They are, but I love dark saturated walls so I guess its ok!"
Him: "Hmmmm. Well, can I ask what you're going to be painting?"
Me: "Actually, I am picking out some colors for my parent's media room. I had a vision of navy in there. I think its going to look amazing."
Him: "Hmmm... (long pause and heaving sighing) yeah, I...I just don't know about that. Its really dark. You knoooow, dark colors makes spaces look, well, a lot smaller."
Me: "Yes, I am aware of that, but its a very large room with a huge white ceiling and cream trim. Its going to look good."
Him: "Yeah, see. Hmmm, I don't know. You know... white reflects light, right?"
Me: "Yes, I have an art degree, I understand colors."

At this point, I had to kind of walk away. I appreciate him being helpful instead of ignoring me, but I mean, come on. I know color. AND I know how to paint...really well. And cut in without taping so there!

So, here is an ode to people who are willing to branch away from Navajo White and into brights, mid-tones, even darks (gasp!), and beyond! We salute you!

Check out all of these great, inspiring colors that were featured on ApartmentTherapy.com!

Skeem Candles Update

2009-12-30T07:32:00.000-08:00

As you may or may not know, we are really picky about candles. Especially when it comes to scents. Both my mother and I are quite sensitive (she more than I) to scents that are too sweet, too fake, or too overpowering. They will give us instant headaches, make our eyes puffy and irritated...its not a pretty sight.

If you're like us, rejoice! We can honestly say that SKEEM candles in their pretty little screen printed, reusable glass jars, are such great candles! We can burn them for hours without headache, itchy eyes, no problems.

We have been burning SKEEM's Warm Sake around the clock as a general scent, and we love their Fresh Lemongrass to freshen up the air in a kitchen after dinner (really, I can attest to its power in a small apartment kitchen with no ventilation!).

Since Christmas just passed, we gave several out as gifts to friends and family with such great results. People LOVE the jars and are really excited over reusing them as drinking glasses, bathroom toiletry holders, or vases.

While ALL of their scents smell off the charts good, here are my personal favorites. And let me tell you, I am a fragrance snoot. Perfume, candles, you name it. I am very picky, hard critic!

Green Fiddlehead- This one reminds me of a cabin my brother stayed at in Hana, Maui. He had Night Blooming Jasmine, Plumeria, and Jade Vine right outside of it, and during the humid nights the air was heavy with the scent of wet jungle- mossy, earthy and very floral.
Lilac Dandelion- If you like scents like Green Fiddlehead, ones that are earthy, green, and floral at the same time then you'll love SKEEM's Lilac Dandelion. I just love the colors!

Boudoir- This one is hard to explain, but its soft without being sweet or powdery. There is a very slight hint of amber or sandlewood. I can't pin point what it is, but it just smells good.

Grapefruit Zest- Oh my gosh, this one is bursting at the seams with juiciness! Somehow it smells better than the real thing- its so crisp and fresh. Grapefruit with a hint of blood orange. Not one bit fake.

Kumquat Fig- Usually I am not a fan of most fruit scents as they're too fake or sweet. And this scent is definitely sweet, but it has a richness that cuts it down. Very heady! Smells like a homemade fruit punch in the tropics sitting on the beach.

Divali Blood Orange- Very similar to Grapefruit Zest, but maybe not as strong. Fresh, crisp, juicy, clean. Great for the kitchen! And I absolutely LOVE the jar because I love all things Indian.

Anthropologie Home Goods

2009-12-29T14:33:00.000-08:00

I could wander endlessly in Anthro's home section- everything is beautifully selected and merchandised in a way that promotes lingering and browsing. Sometimes, I like to wander online and put together an imaginary bedroom centered around their Hothouse bedding. The explosions of color and texture are just what you need on a cold winter's day!

And of course, what room would be complete without some Voluspa fragrance?! Santiago Huckleberry reed diffuser smells soooo delicious (and you know, we carry it!)

A Christmas Story

2009-12-29T13:19:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am talking about the movie- probably one of my favorites of all time period. It always makes me reflect on being a child, and the movie does such a fantastic job of explaining what it feels like to be a kid, especially around Christmas time.

Its all of the dreaming and wishing, the suspense waiting for Christmas Eve to arrive and the surprises that lurk the next morning (The newest Anthropologie catalog did an excellent job quantifying this as well- absolutely breathtaking.).

But, there is an element of the movie that might not have such a hold for other people, but it really reminds me of growing up in my childhood neighborhood. Everything was simple- people lived modestly, no one had new cars. There were always barking dogs, short cuts through the back way, endless playing outside until dark, and of course some hillbillies, too. Big, bold glass lights on trees and homes, tinsel and modest decorations adorned the downtown area of town.

Ahhh, memories.

Let There Be Light!

2009-12-22T09:33:00.000-08:00

It is the first time we have done this- we have a featured artist on TheECLECTICLifestyle.com- Aaron Hunzinger!

Aaron's back story is equally as interesting as his modern lamps and chandeliers, he works at his family's multi-generational awning shop as an installer, and all of his pieces are painstakingly handmade of awning materials, welded, and tied using traditional awning knots for a very unique look.

The ambiance the lights cast through the canvas is nothing short of amazing- a nice, soft glow to add a bit of drama and interest to a room.

If you live in the Chicagoland area, you're in luck! Aaron will deliver your lamp for free!

Wallpaper

2009-12-22T07:30:00.001-08:00

It's back and I couldn't be happier. Long gone are the country motifs, boarders, and hideous colors. This new batch of wallpaper is everything you thought it couldn't be- modern, bright, bold, vintage.

How do you feel about it? Would you put it up in your home? Or are you happier with painting?

I think its a great way to add pattern, texture and interest. Sure, you can easily over do it, but when done right wallpaper is a wall's best friend.

Check out these from Apartment Therapy:

Cool Converted Barn

2009-12-19T08:37:00.000-08:00

I don't know if my mother would agree with me, but converted barns are one of the coolest places you could possibly live on this planet. This one, found on ApartmentTherapy.com is surely no exception. What do you think? Would you live here? I would!

How to burn a new candle correctly

2009-12-18T06:55:00.000-08:00

Who knew that there were rules to burning a candle? I didn't until we met with a Voluspa rep and she educated us on how to properly burn a candle to ensure a long, even burn.

Have you ever lit a candle and it created a little "tunnel", leaving unburned wax along the side of the container? Us too, and we never knew why. Apparently candles have a "memory" and will burn the pattern of wax from the previous use.

The proper way to burn a new candle is to light it and let it create a liquid pool of wax on the top. Depending on the candle this generally take about 2 hours to do. This ensures you never have a tunnel down to the bottom and waste all of that precious scent!

We thought this was great information especially since we are offering those amazing SKEEM candles that come in the reusable, decorated glass.

Gifts- ECLECTIC Has You Covered!

2009-12-16T07:55:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Christmas is NEXT FRIDAY! Hasn't this year flown by? I remember being a child and the thought of Christmas morning was so far removed and away, time seemed to stand still (or at least crawl by). The older I get, the faster time passes.

If you're stuck on a gift idea and don't know what to do, or simply don't have the time to put it together, wrap it, ship it, etc., let ECLECTIC handle it for you! We have plenty of curious, inspiring gifts on our e-boutique, TheECLECTICLifestyle.com that we know you'll love.

If having some great gift ideas wasn't enough, ECLECTIC can also help you out with the following:

- Create a beautiful gift basket presentation using the items exclusively on our e-boutique.

- Create a beautiful gift basket presentation using some of the items on our e-boutique and other items like decadent chocolates, pampering bath products, delicious wine -whatever the lucky recipient loves! Just let us know about their personality, likes, interests and we'll take care of the rest.

- Clever, crafty, and beautiful gift wrapping.

- Shipping straight to the gift recipient's home or office.

Custom orders are a favorite of ours. If you have an idea, get in touch with us and we'll create a memorable gift with you.

Boo!

2009-12-14T10:35:00.000-08:00

We're not really fans of the whole "ghost" trend that still seems to be lingering around, but we will admit that some things just look pretty darn cool when they are simple and clear.

Take our Apparition Candelabra for example- just a cleaned up version of a classic 3 armed candelabra but in clear glass. $53

Voluspa + Skeem

2009-12-11T09:16:00.000-08:00

Oh boy, we are stoked on the new candles we have brought into our e-boutique, TheEclecticLifestyle.com. We are candle snobs, not really by choice but by circumstance. Both of us are very sensitive to scents that are too overpowering, too sweet, too fake. Our eyes itch, run, and its a recipe for an instant, lingering migraine. No thanks.

We have been Oooo'ing and Ahhh'ing over Voluspa and their delicious assortment of scents. We brought in reed diffusers, candles, kitchen candles, HAND SCRUBS(!), and hand soap. The hand scrubs make excellent gifts for that special someone on your list who is always busy in the kitchen. The collection was made in conjunction with Michael Boyce, a professional chef.

We've also been goo-goo for Skeem. You know its a hit when a mother and daughter are equally excited about scent, quality, and packaging. What really struck us was the glass pillars; once the candle has burned, they can be reused. Can't you just picture a nice mixed drink in there?! We can.

Fun Gift Ideas

2009-12-09T09:49:00.000-08:00

ECLECTIC loves FredFlare.com for their fun, whimsical approach to well, everything! Here are a few very affordable gift ideas for those very special someones on your list:

"Finally a "paper cup" that doesn't end up in the trash can! This amazing cup is eco friendly & reusable. Dishwasher & microwave safe, too! Double walled porcelain, silicone top & grip. 3.5"x6"

$14 (!)

"Get green, Mother Earth will thank you! Leave those plastic bottles behind and move forward with this sturdy reusable alternative. Each bottle is molded after the shape of tall water bottle and has a rubber lined glass cap. Microwavable & dishwasher safe. About 13.4” x 3.3”

Would make a cute vase, too!

$38

"Make a dramatic presentation with this useful “table saw”. It’s great for cutting cakes or anything else soft, like lettuce! Start using it and you’ll see: it’ll become your #1 fave kitchen gadget! Plastic. 11”

$9

"Add a little beauty to your daily routine with this blown glass half-pint creamer! Molded after the paper cartons we like to use each morning, it’s so perfect for brightening up any breakfast or coffee breaks. Measures approximately 3"x4"

$15

"We love Jonathan Adler! This delightful book celebrates the creative genius of today’s Top talent with each chapter a different tenet of Adler’s hilarious style manifesto. Pages & pages of gorgeous interiors plus Jonthan’s funny personal stories. So inspiring! Hardcover. 208pgs"

$34.95

Bringing Nature In

2009-12-08T07:59:00.000-08:00

One of our biggest inspirations at ECLECTIC is nature, for us it is the purest form of beauty and wonder. We are always looking to organic patterns, textures, and shapes for inspiration in what we do.

Its no wonder why I fell completely in love with these amazing ornaments found on ApartmentTherapy.com today! They are so simple, elegant and remind me of tiny little terrariums we used to make in grade school.

I think I will have to make some this weekend and post the results!

Fun With Scraps

2009-12-07T07:12:00.000-08:00

I was inspired by this project on Apartment Therapy for a festive holiday light decoration:

What's not to love about canvas and lights? And its so easy! I made my own variation of it using some scrap wood I found at a friend's house, a jig saw, a drill, 1/4" paddle bit, 125 clear lights, sandpaper, and wood glue. It didn't quite turn out the way I wanted, but here is a step-by-step how to on making it with some after thoughts on what I would do differently the second time around.

1) Sketch out your design on some sturdy wood that is no thicker than 1/2". Make sure your design corresponds with your jig saw skills!

2) Cut out with jig saw.

3) With a pencil (I used Sharpie- BIG mistake!), plot your holes. Its important to keep the holes no more than 1.5"-2" apart for plugging with lights.

4) Drill holes with paddle bit- depending on the type of wood you have, the back may get a little gnarly.

5) After drilling the holes, sand down the edges and the holes to make a snag-proof surface. Take your time here!

6) On the back of the design, with the wood glue, put a small amount of glue into the holes and around the outside to help keep the bulb upright and in place.

7) Starting at the bottom with enough slack in the cord to plug in, plug the holes with lights. It helps to go up one side and snake it down the middle and back up the other side.

8) Let it dry and plug 'er in!

AFTER THOUGHTS- While I am happy with the way it turned out for the most part, there are some things I would change for the next round. For one, I would be more thoughtful about the shape I made. The scrap I used was an odd shaped triangle, so I didn't have much to work with. I thought the pattern I made with the holes would have made more of a cluster at the bottom that thinned out and then got dense again at the top, but its just not working like the way I wanted it to.

The biggest change I would make next time is to count the holes before I drill so there aren't loose lights behind there with no holes to call home. It just adds needless bulk, and the lights already give about a 2.5" extension as is.

Next time it will be even better!!

CELEBRACION!

2009-12-03T11:24:00.000-08:00

We're in the mood to celebrate! Our new web boutique is up and running with more products to be added in the coming weeks- just in time for the holidays!!

Take a peek: TheEclecticLifestyle.com

Merry Apartment Christmas ...part 2

2009-11-29T13:47:00.000-08:00

We recently did two slim trees for an apartment lived in by a young bachelor. He wanted a tree for himself that reflected his personal tastes, as well as one for his girlfriend to enjoy. We wrapped his tree in his favorite color, red, and filled it with vintage ornaments we found. Instead of the traditional topper, we used a tin owl sitting on a red glitter pine cone.

Isn't this such a cute find? We love this antique looking little owl- so festive and fun!!

For his girlfriend's tree, we went the monochrome route and wrapped the tree in blue lights and decorated it with soft blue peacock ornaments and frosted blue-green balls. One of our favorite details about her tree is the faux bucket with "rocks" the tree sits in. A rustic touch to keep it from looking too "matchy-matchy" and stuffy.

A Merry Apartment Christmas

2009-11-24T06:25:00.000-08:00

What do you do if you live in an apartment, condo, or want to decorate a small space for Christmas? How do you achieve a great look without overtaking the rest of your living space? Decorating a small space is always a challenge, and we're up for that! Here are some tips to make your space shine:

SLIM TREES: If you're looking for a tree, but don't have the space for a giant 10' tall, 5' wide beast, slim trees are a great option. They come in various heights with one thing in common- they're usually have about a 2' radius and will tuck into any corner or small space nicely without overwhelming the room.

DECORATING A SLIM TREE: As miniature versions of their counterpart, slims need a bit of adjusting when it comes to decorating. Our method of lighting (if they aren't already pre-lit) still applies, as does our heirarchy of ornament size. Over all, you're going to use ornaments that are smaller that you'd normally use for a regular sized tree. You don't want the ornaments to overtake the tree, but rather a fun, sparkly addition that works with everything else.

HOLIDAY SCENT: Holiday scents are the hardest because we are really particular about our fragrances. Nothing fake, or smelling of baked goods. We're always attracted to something fresh and cleansing, or heady and intoxicating. The best holiday scent we have found is Noel from Petal Candles.

LET THEIR BE LIGHTS: One of my favorite things about the holidays are the use of lights. They are especially handy in creating ambiance in a small space. This is where you get to be really creative depending on the size of your space.
-Fill the inside of a basket with lights and put it on a shelf, the lights peeking out through the cracks will create a mirror ball effect. If its on the floor, put some pine boughs or sparkly ornaments in it for added drama.
-Have a chandelier? Try densely wrapping lights around it for a soft glow. In most cases, we would say stick with clear lights instead of color which might make it look too busy.
-Rope lights are no longer a cheesy 70's accent, and they can add a lot of fun! String them on the inside top of your cabinets or as under-lighting. Put them in an unlit fireplace with carefully arranged logs on top for a unique focal point.
-Cluster large glass vases together and fill them with lights and use as a centerpiece or as a table accent. You could also layer with small amounts of tinsel, ball ornaments, etc.

NO MANTEL? NO PROBLEM!: What to do if you don't have a mantel to hang stockings on? Fear not, we have an easy DIY project that costs nothing more than pennies and a little sweat. You'll need a large, sturdy stick about an inch in diameter. It can be as long or short as you like. We like the look of the natural stick, but you can paint it white, or silver, gold, etc.

You'll also need some wide ribbon, about an inch wide and in any color you wish. You'll also need a picture hanging hammer and some small nails. Measure where you'd like your stick to hang on the wall and double that- cut two pieces of ribbon in that measurement.

With the stick on the floor, slip one of the ribbons under one end of the stick and make a U shape. At the end of the ribbon, tie a nice sized bow. On the free side of the stick, slide your stockings or ornaments on and then repeat the ribbon trying. You're now going to put two nails into the wall and slip the bows onto the nails...and voila- you've got a festive way to display stockings, ornaments, or other decorations!

Figuring Out YOUR Holiday Style

2009-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

You're thinking "So, great. You provided some tips on holiday decorating, but I am clueless on what my style is." Don't worry! We are going to give you some examples on a few popular style categories. Its not unusual to fall into more than one category, and we believe in mixing and matching style and price ranges.

MODERN: Think Ikea- you like clean lines and minimalism. You're not into frills and tons of detail. Things that are functional AND beautiful are something you appreciate.

CONTEMPORARY- A cousin to modern, but with a "warmer" feel and not such a minimalistic approach. Think "Crate & Barrel".

TRADITIONAL: You like classic style, things that will never look dated. You appreciate craftsmanship, attention to detail in things like crown molding and mantels.

RUSTIC: Not to be confused with "country"! If you like handmade touches, rough edges, comfy cozy designs, this is you. Vintage and nostalgic nods. Think "Anthropologie".

WORLD TRAVELER: Rich spice colors, texture, lots of mixing and matching and appreciation of many cultures. Similar to Rustic, you appreciate handmade, craftsman touches. Think "World Market".

ECLECTIC Holiday Style

2009-11-23T08:18:00.000-08:00

Great decorations this time of year is really about balancing your personal style with the holiday spirit. Breaking down what you want to focus on, developing themes, and keeping it stylishly casual ensures you will not have a nervous breakdown and have some fun with it!

Mix and Match It: This is when its important to know what your personal decorating style is- are you a "world traveler", enjoy the clean lines of modern, find yourself leaning towards contemporary? Whatever your particular style is, pair it with some traditional, nostalgic holiday elements like fake snow, tinsel, or Santa in moderation. It gives a whimsical sophistication.

Pick a Theme: Take a cue from the department stores and develop a theme, it makes the whole decorating process a snap! Some fun examples would be Vintage (think lighted bubble ornaments, shiny glass balls, tinsel, paper chains), Winter Wonderland (snowflakes, silver, white, icicles), or just a color theme.

Color or Clear? Do you want color or clear lights? Color lights give a playful, nostalgic feel while clear lights feel a bit more elegant and make a nice addition to white and silve color schemes.

Trim It: How do you get your tree to look like a professional did it? We have two tricks of the trade 1) Instead of circling the tree with lights in a downward spiral, wrap each branch from the inside out with lights. 2) Layer your ornaments; just like lights, put some inside the branches. Make sure to have a variety of sizes to keep it interesting. Smaller ones usually look best at the top with the larger ones at the bottom.

Entertaining: The holidays are the perfect time to bring out the china, silverware, platters and bowls that rarely get used throughout the year. Don't be afraid to mix and match styles, it keeps it from looking fussy and precious. Have fun with it, get creative!

Holiday Guests: Having a houseful? Make your guests' stay ultra comfy and memorable with all the comforts of home at their finger tips. Add as many fluffed pillows to the bed as you have on hand- if you can afford to get decorative pillows specifically for the spare room, go for it (we also offer custom bedding services). Set up travel sized toiletries in the bathroom with several folded towels.

Delicious + Beautiful Holiday Options

2009-11-19T11:54:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that next Thursday marks the marathon months that make up the holiday season? We can't either- this year has flown by!

ECLECTIC is all about the many ways to make your home beautiful. If you're as busy as we are, we know you'll appreciate the thoughtful artistry found in the gourmet gift baskets and arrangements that Floral Designs offers. New this year is the Organic Gourmet fruit basket, teaming with scrumptious fruits, wholesome trailmix, and decadent chocolate thrown in for good measure.

And what is a tablescape without a centerpiece?! We love the way florals instantly transform and bring life to a room. Floral Designs offers beautiful arrangements using the freshes florals and seasonal accents around, creating an inviting glow to your home or office.

Take a peek at these fantastic examples of Thanksgiving arrangements:

We love that custom orders are always welcome and that nationwide delivery is available.

The Rise of Wallpaper

2009-11-12T06:30:00.000-08:00

When you say "wallpaper" it often conjures up images of hunter green, dusty blue, country prints with a horrible matching border featuring hens, gingham check, and sunflowers. Ick.

But guess what, wallpaper is finally making a comeback and you no longer have to suffer through books of dated colors and prints. The new wallpaper is clever, modern, fun with interesting touches or finishes (think metallic!). There are also many companies that offer vintage inspired prints that have unique colors and themes. Very fun.

Some of our vendors even offer to turn their beautiful fabrics into a custom wallpaper, a great way to bring color and texture into your space.

Fall Helpers

2009-11-09T09:19:00.001-08:00

Part of having a beautiful home is keeping the outside looking nice, too. If you're not keen on outdoor chores, maybe these smart tools from Kinsman might make it a little more productive and hey, who knows, maybe even fun!

We particularly love the Leaf Grabbers. I mean, they're yellow bear claws. How cute!

We also love the Adjustable, Collapsible Rake- perfect for racking in small places or for storage.

Recycled Style

2009-11-04T06:34:00.001-08:00

One of our vendors offers interesting merchandise that is mostly re-purposed or recycled. And they're really cute; with styles ranging from modern to rustic and everything in between! Check it out:Recycled railroad tie footstools/ end tables. Great idea, and the warm wood has so much character!

Recycled "Alabaster" glass votives cast a soft, marbled glow. Pair with Petal candles!!

Opaque recycled glass bowls in earth tones (above) and pop colors. I love the texture!

Recycled wood blocks that were originally for making elaborate sari cloth in India. LOVE these.

Recycled rubber nesting tables. Yes, you get all THREE of these. Awesome bargain!!!

See something you're interested in?! Contact us for more information!

Nature's Creative Edge

2009-11-02T08:48:00.000-08:00

At ECLECTIC, we are fans of great design whether it's interior, retail, clothing, art, etc. Great design does not go unappreciated here.

With that said, a few months ago, Margaret was invited to take part of a very cool design project in the woods of Michigan; creating beautiful sculptures using nature's bounty alongside of man-made objects. An interesting mix to say the least! A fun weekend of creating art for the sake of art- a rare treat these days :)

Check out the photos!

Scent Stories

2009-11-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

I love candles because I love scents. Studies have proven that our sense of smell is a direct link to memories, no wonder why there are so many home fragrances centered around baking, cookies, and the like (Ick- if I want my house to smell like baked goods, I'll make some cookies!).

If you are sensitive to scents that are too strong, too sweet, too fake like I am, you'll love this candle company we've found- Petal. The owner has worked in the bath + home fragrance industry for many years and has blended some fantastic fragrances that are layered and interesting.

My favorite is Pod- "Earthly intense. Rich with natural sandalwood, ylang ylang, jasmine, amber, apricot blossom and fig.". Doesn't it sound wonderful? Just the right amount of earthy, mossy, woodsy scents with some sweetness to brighten it up.

If you like the old fashioned scent of rose, you'll love Victoria- "A vibrant fresh floral creation that captures the romance of an English garden. Truly a lively combination of fresh tulips, English rose, violet and peony petals enhanced with the subtle earth tones of oakmoss."

Interested? Contact us for more details!

Fall Colors

2009-10-21T12:35:00.000-07:00

Don't we all feel sad at the departure of long, lazy summer days and the return of dark winter nights? Sometimes we forget about the fleeting essence of fall; the warmth of the sun, apple picking, the golden trees against a cloudless blue sky. When I think of fall, the first thing that pops in my head are the colors and the beautiful soft or contrasting color schemes.

Fall colors have the ability to bring warmth and stability while giving a subtly cool, modern edge. There have been many research studies done on the impact colors have on a person, they can give energy, vibrancy, calmness, serenity or any range of emotions in between.

Why not use the colors of this season in your own home? Let mother nature inspire your space.

Here are some ideas to get the ball rolling:

This clever assortment of pillows makes a statement with bold colors and a mixture of patterns. Don't be afraid to mix and match! The general rule is large patterns mix well with small patterns like pin stripes or checks. Or mix and match bold patterns with something more delicate.

This is a very literal translation of fall, but the colors are right on track and you can see the knit trend used in the accent pillows- a nice, cozy touch!

How about some striking neutral paint in a rich wheat, worn wood and leather to tie it all together?

NEW! Visual Merchandising + Display for Retail!

2009-10-21T12:14:00.001-07:00

Finally, after years of offering our residential and corporate clients beautiful interior design services, we are now expanding and doing the same for retail! We are SO excited for this new venture and can barely contain ourselves.

Whether you are looking for eye catching window displays, refreshment of floor layout, creative merchandising that promotes browsing, or other decorative displays- ECLECTIC is poised to give you the most outstanding service and end products!

Let your imagination wander, the holidays are just around the corner... call us today to set up a complimentary consultation.

Winter Design Trends

2009-10-05T09:48:00.000-07:00

Winter is approaching. I can feel it. The days are shorter and I am already longing for the long days of summer. So I have to make the best of it and focus on things I like most about the cold days ahead.

For the approaching winter, there are several styles to look at. I am picking one of my favorites, warm and cuddly. So what makes our homes warm and cuddly this winter? Faux fur, it's hot this season, it will be featured in home accessories and resonates into fall and winter fashions- look for accents on your favorite sweater, purse or scarf. Add textural interest to any room by adding a few pillows or throws on your sofas, chairs or beds. Knits, particularly chunky cable knits are popping up in throws and pillows, making a comfy haven for those crisp winter nights.

ECLECTIC offers the most deliciously soft throw to complete you cozy home look:

A nicely sized throw 50"x60", in Beige, 100% Polyester
$85