Fresh, new, Darling

DARLING, the art of being a woman

New, inspiring, delightful...a perfect fit for Paper Delights!  This quarterly makes me smile, over and over again.  One look at the cover and you'll be intrigued, open it up and you'll be hooked!  First of all, nice paper, beautiful photos and articles that engage women in so many ways...entertaining, travel, careers, personal growth, business, recipes, style... Truly indulgent summer reading - don't miss out!

Summer Entertaining

Just in - the books that will inspire and inform your own memorable summer gatherings:

Plan the soiree...

Wish you did a bit more entertaining, but intimidated by the thought of all the details?  Fancy bridal luncheon or laid-back Sunday brunch -  every single entertaining question you've ever had is answered!  Simple solutions are the specialty of expert, Susan Spungen.  I especially appreciate the time-saving and money-saving ideas lists.

...the refreshment...

Cookbook or Coffee Table book?  Pure beauty, pure inspiration!  Once you get past the amazing letter pressed cover with white/black pin-dot fabric binding {breathe} you'll be treated to a plethora of healthy, delicious, and visually exciting veggie dishes.  Author, Matt Wilkinson draws from a long career in the culinary arts, taking greens from garden to table.  Even if you never make a single recipe from this book you'll find it a treasure to own!

...the decor...

Stunning floral arrangements made easy.  The women of Studio Choo, the hottest design studio in the country break it down for you, using unusual botanicals and unique vessels. The amazing photos and step-by-step instructions will have you creating the beautiful floral designs you've dreamed of!

Irresistible!

Next time you deserve a little reward or want to reward another deserving soul {Thanks-olate bar} indulge in a rich and delicious Seattle Chocolate Bar.  Beautifully designed inside and out!

We really can't resist these stylish little mini bars!  Each of the unique chocolate combos encompass a balance of some complex flavors that mix together to create supreme yummy-ness!  Oh, and of course, they're local!

Ahhhhh...the memories

A bit of nostalgia with an updated sparkle!  Use these delicate red or white paper doilies to add that vintage touch to Valentine cards or baked goods.  Tie it all up with our new cotton twine twisted with a delicate gold or silver metallic strand.  The extra personal touch will surely be rewarded!

Mrs. Lilien Cocktails

Life-style maven and blogger, Mrs. Lilien {http://blog.mrslilien.com/} has put together the most wonderful collection of cocktail recipes, each with graphic, easy-to-follow direction cards.  {You could even make these if you were already tipsy!}  Perfectly priced at $14.99 for stocking-stuffing or hostess gift-giving!

Rosettes: Adorn trees & packages!

We were inspired by all the beautiful papers in the shop right now!  Alicia's festive tree is covered in paper rosettes, ribbons, and banners

To make a paper rosette choose a lively gift wrap pattern {we have lots to choose from} - double-sided, even better!

Make accordian folds along the length of the rectangle 

Fold in the center and tie tightly with

{Devine} twine.  Tape the open edges together.

Everyone loved the paper rosettes they made at Alicia's Christmas luncheon

Such fun!

i

 We just received a new order from Rifle!  We love fresh, floral designs re-interpreted for autumn.  Decorate with the garland alphabet {perfect to personalize a baby or bridal shower}.

Treat yourself to the  Notebook Collection.  A  lovely way to collect your thoughts.

Share the beauty every time you send a note on these stationery sheets with matching
envelopes and labels!

Planning one last party of the summer?  We just did a very fun progressive garden party.  We visited three beautiful gardens, where each host provided yummy apps and drinks {not too much work for any of us}.  Ours was the final stop - dessert.  Darkness - perfect for me because our garden wasn't looking so great and I love to light up the night with lots candles! This playful table setting was fun to pull together with goodies from the shop:  bird parade paper placemats, floral cocktail napkins and frilly umbrella picks.  I actually lit our bird candles - perfect for this eclectic garden theme!  Enjoy these last warm, summery evenings!

Stripes, dots and chevrons!  Use these adorable, printed bags for big impact party favors!  A variety of sizes and colors are now in stock!

Yes, today is the second full day of summer in Seattle!  In Seattle, we have to be creative about convincing ourselves that it really is Summer.  Wear bright, summer colors {of polar fleece or rain gear}, fix summery drinks {Arnold Palmers are delicious served hot - with vodka} and surround yourself with fun, summery accessories!!  We love all the new letterpress coasters that just arrived from Haute Papier.  Despite the fancy {French} name they are happily affordable, fun to use, practical, make great hostess gifts AND remind us of summer!

Birds of a feather...dine together!?  These whimsical birds are among the latest group of paper placemat designs to arrive.  Perfect for a summer of al fresco dining!