The shop is spare and organic. A stuffed taxidermy pheasant forever suspended in time is perched atop a fallen log on a pedestal. Some jewelry is displayed under bell jars, as if Baker is protecting delicate insects or other organic specimens.
By Kathy Schultz | November 29, 2006
The Stroms also raise baby 'roos. "We got one and it escalated from there," says Ray Strom, who slowly added to the menagerie they now have. Babies are hand-raised in playpens in the Strom's home and fed every four hours with bottles. There's usually a baby 'roo swaddled like an infant that guests can hold.
By Kathy Schultz | November 29, 2006
The soon-to-be 20-year-old local company has always designed technical clothing for intrepid adventurers, but now it's concentrating on design elements as well. After all, don't you want to look cute in your shirt and pants while riding that elephant?
By Kathy Schultz | December 5, 2006
The gift haven has everything from edible lavender goodies to sleep aids, bath and body products and candles. One of her top sellers is the squishable lavender stress ball ($6). "Everyone from nurses to teachers to executives loves these," says Jordan. Smush these fragrant fabric-covered balls filled with lavender to relieve tension. Also popular are eye pillows filled with lavender ($20), lavender-filled neck and shoulder bags that can be heated up in the microwave ($30), and pretty organza scarves with beaded fringe filled with just a bit of lavender hiding in the folds of the fabric ($33.95).
By Kathy Schultz | December 6, 2006
Dishware diva and designer Rosanna Bowles is having a warehouse sale on Saturday, Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the shop's warehouse location. You'll find Rosanna's creative designs on everything from plates and mugs to serving pieces and teapots. These twice-a-year sales are worth the wait. The prolific designer will have discontinued pieces and seconds for less than wholesale prices.
By Kathy Schultz | December 7, 2006
Holder's stockings feature colors such as olive green, raspberry, butter yellow, baby blue and chocolate brown, along with some contemporary takes on red and green. Her architectural background comes through in her use of multi-layered felt flowers and geometric design. Each one looks as if it was "built" to be three-dimensional. At 12-inches by 8-inches, there's plenty of room for stuffing them full of goodies. Buying matching stockings for the kids? Each one comes with a tiny picture frame attached to the top. Just slip a photo in to identify it -- and prevent Christmas morning squabbles.
By Kathy Schultz | December 12, 2006
Owner Nina Ummel has created a well-balanced collection of aromatherapy products including all-natural aromatic mists, bath and body oils, bath salts, cleansing bars, salt glows and more. They come in carefully formulated essential oil combinations to stimulate, calm, enhance well-being and even increase your feelings of passion.
By Kathy Schultz | December 12, 2006
Tired of winter's gloomy gray? Step into Capitol Hill's Galactic Boutique for a double-shot of color. The sandwich board sign in hot pink and purple is your first clue that you're in for some color therapy. Hues range from soft pastels and rainbow shades to neon pinks, purples, greens and oranges.
By Kathy Schultz | December 13, 2006
Your tastes may range from simple to elegant to elaborate, but you're sure to find a menorah to illuminate your Hanukkah which starts at sundown Dec. 15. Two shops in Seattle (each with multiple locations) have a wide range to choose from.
By Kathy Schultz | December 14, 2006
When it comes to giving men accessories for gifts, it can be so cliché. But not if you choose something with a little luxury and a dash of panache. I came across some cool cufflinks, ties and belts that I'd be proud to give my significant other.
By Kathy Schultz | December 19, 2006
