Oh Egg Press - How I Love Thee!

I have been writing about Egg Press for years because their cards are always sweet, charming and hit just the right note. It is one of the few lines that I always get a "What a great card!" compliment.

So I'm beyond thrilled to share their new products with you - so innovative, so fun! Check 'em out:

- Charm cards (pictured above) are a present and card all in one! The recipient gets all the tools to make earrings, bracelets and necklaces all in a flat package that is easily mailed. And at such an affordable price, you can get them for everyone on your gift list!

- Letterpressed recipe cards are the only folded ones I've ever seen - and what a fabulous idea! You send your sentiments and a recipe. How cool is that? They are sized to fit in a traditional recipe box, and the name of the dish can be seen through a sweet little die-cut window. Sold in a set of 6 (jars, yum, food, veggie, sand dollar, cook), just try not to buy out the entire stock. These are going to go quickly.

-   The new line of letterpressed cards with Angela Adams have the bold, colourful, sunny graphics that are so right now and that you have come to know and love over the years (I've had Angela Adams stationery and notebooks for what seems like decades now).  They may just have you wanting to redo your whole place in this fashion. Just watch!

Check out Egg Press' brand new website and stock up on these amazing cards.

Egg Press, I will love you until the end of time.

Show Your Gratitude with Gorgeous, Inexpensive Cards from Thank You Cards Shop

One of the greatest joys in my life is stationery. And in particular, thank you cards.

There is something about being able to write my sincere thanks and gratitude to someone for their kindness and generosity or friendship.

So thank you cards are a very big deal to me. I don't send just anything. It's got to be darn special.

So when I found Amy Lowry's Thank You Cards Shop, I was absolutely elated. Someone that specializes in thank you's? How amazing is that?! Amy writes about how she came to have the shop: 

"[Thank You Cards Shop] is an expression of my love for stationery and for living the creative life. I cannot tell you how much fun I had designing each card for the shop. I got my start designing stationery for my own wedding, almost 6 years ago and from there I was hooked. Almost everything about our wedding was DIY! When it came time to design the thank you cards for the wedding I found myself short on time – and ended up shopping for cards, but wasn’t totally happy with the selection available and the lack of customized options. Years later, I remembered this and realized that designing stationery would allow me to explore so many different styles – and to design for so many different types of people. I knew it was a perfect fit for me, and I’m excited to be embarking on a new chapter in my career as a stationery designer."

All of the cards are digitally printed on high quality white cardstock and professionally printed and packaged in the TYCS studio. The paper is manufactured in the United States, either from FSC certified forests (ensuring responsible harvesting techniques are used) or from paper recycled from cotton remnants, with 90% of packaging materials made from recycled paper.

When is the last time you had so many thanks you card designs to choose from?

-Flowerburst Patterned Cards are sweet and summery - perfect for sending after this season's events. 

- And I love the bird themed cards - Bird Thank You Cards and Crowned Bird Thanks (pictured above). I can think of a bunch of folks that will really appreciate the beautiful illustration and colour palette of these.

- But I think I love The Birds - Stationery the most. These rendition of a happy l'il forest just makes me smile, so I can only imagine how delighted the recipient will feel.

I don't know how Amy is able to offer such affordable cards! And the more you buy, they more they go down in price. My advice is to get a bunch of your favourites and stock up. I like to have them on hand so that as soon as I want to thank someone, I can send it off in the mail as soon as possible. This week, I'll be sending Amy's lovely thank you cards and thank you notes all around the globe - to a friend in London, to a friend who just got married this weekend, to colleagues in Michigan who opened up my eyes and my world, and assorted family and friends for just being in my life.

Now I just have one problem - how do you send one to a person who makes thank you cards for a living? I'll have to think on this one...

Shop the entire Thank You Cards Shop Collection now.

Bhold Shoe Bags Pamper Your Shoes - Each Individual One

Maybe you've been only using your shoe bags for traveling. I have. Because they aren't really all that pretty or that functional for anything more than keeping your shoes separate from your clothes in your luggage.

That's until I got Bhold Shoe Bags.

Proudly made and designed in Canada, you won't be able to resist these pretty little numbers. They come in so many patterns suitable for both men, women and young ladies, so they make a wonderful gift for the world traveler or the never-ending organizer.

Far superior to the ones you've used up until now, Bhold Bags are lined (your shoes have never been so pampered - I call my bags my "shoe spas") and come with a separator, so that each shoe gets its own cushy department and stay in tip-top shape. How swank is that?! The two drawstrings are finished with wooden beads, making it easy to stash and store your shoes in an instant.

And there are so many collections to choose from: Bella, an embellished collection that reminds me of frothy wedding cakes, Bling, for those that want to add a little shimmer and shine with Swarovski crystals to their closet, Top Shelf is a rich collection of sumptuous patterns and colours, Playful is all about whimsical and colourful cottons, and the Active Collection, which oozes city chic.

I got the Pixie Gurl (pictured above) which I use for storing away my lovely towering heels and wedges as well as toting my flats with me when I'm heading out for a night on the town and know that I will only get as far as the restaurant before I'll have to switch out of my teeterting booties.

Of course, you don't have to use them only for shoes - wrap wine or champagne, store your audio equipment (who says you can't still rock a yellow discman?) or keep all of your hair accessories together and organized. The possibilities are endless.

I am thrilled to have found Bhold Bags. They are the solution I didn't know I needed. Next on my list? A Bhold Shopping Bag!

Shop the entire Bhold Collection now.

Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers Turns Your Dinner Party Into the Event of the Season

I love to entertain, but truthfully I'd rather spend my money on ingredients instead of the decorations. But I do like to spruce the place up a bit. It really needs a lift when company's coming by.

That's why my new favourite dinner party accessory is Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers.

This line of beautifully-styled vintage looking papers dresses up your table quickly and without a lot of expense. And you can choose to reuse or recycle them, meaning they'll take up less space than your Grandmother's linens.

Perfect Serving Placemats elevate your food so that everything has the feel of a fine French meal. Whether your tableware is handmade in Portugal or from Ikea, your guest will at least know where which fork goes where. And there's 50 of 'em, so that oughta get you through the summer.

And since doilies are so passe, update your look with 8" Serving Papers (pictured above).  This pad of 25 tear-off sheets means that you can use them under everything from your leek and cheese souffle appetizer to your homemade rhubarb crumble dessert.

For the food lover who's always dabbling in the kitchen, the Cook's Journal is a phenomenal gift. It has a table of contents and each recipe is numbered (space for 40-hand written dishes), with room for the ingredients and directions. With vintage images throughout, it is the most beautiful journal and an instant cookbook - just fill in the blanks and you've got your best-seller completed!

Using soy based inks & 30% recycled content, these are treasured items that make not only wonderful entertaining accompaniments, but incredibly memorable gifts too. 

Shop the entire Cake Vintage Kitchen Papers collection now. A portion of all of proceeds are donated to the Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Fund at Vanderbilt.

Celebrate William & Kate's Royal Visit with The Coaster Company!

The  Royal Couple: William & Catherine - Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting Canada. How will you celebrate and commemorate this epic event?

No one has better mementos than England's The Coaster Company!

These UK-made Royal Wedding Commemorative Products give you a wide range of photos and products to choose from.  

I think coasters are the way to go, because you get to not only see and enjoy the images, but they come in handy if you like to have a cuppa while you're at your desk or while you're watching the telly (writing about the UK has definitely brought out my English side, as you can see!).  But all of their designs are also available in placemats and mousemats as well.

And because they are so affordable, you can get a bunch for yourself and give the rest as gifts. Such a handsome couple should be displayed, shouldn't they?

The Balcony Kiss on Union Jack Background (pictured above) or without the background preserves that moment in time beautifully. Or perhaps you prefer them waving on the Palace Balcony. Leaving Westminster Abbey is a lovely shot, as is the close up of William & Kate in the Wedding Carriage.And the inclusion of the Crest on this Wedding Commemorative Coaster makes is a wonderful souvenir for Royal's fans.

For those of you who are history buffs, you'll know that according to history files, Keep Calm and Carry On was a poster produced by the British government in 1939 during the beginning of World War II.   It was intended to raise the morale of the British public in the event of invasion, but it never really caught on until its rediscovery in 2000. Since then, it's become a popular catch phrase that actually resonates well in our technologically-laden world.  So I recommend getting a Set of Six Keep Calm and Carry On Coasters  (I love that they come in a variety of colours) for yourself and then a bunch to keep on hand for gifts. You know your friends are going to love 'em as much as you do!

And for a fun take on that, be sure to get these amazing coasters: Calm Down You Can Still Marry Harry, Don't Panic There's Still One Prince Left, Don't Panic You Can Still Marry Pippa and I'm Just Wild About Harry.

Shop The Coaster Comapny's entire collection and commemorate the Royal Visit with something that you'll actually use and you can actually afford (take that, overpriced coins or plates). 

Illumienate - The Most Stylish Way to Light Up a Room

Sometimes someone just gets it right on.

Danielle Ericsson's creation - Illumienate - takes candle holders that are covered in beautiful papers and images.  She makes them into wedding luminary table numbers, luminaria centerpieces, favors, votive place cards, votive wrap name cards, and lumie menus.

The best part is that she personalizes them, so whether you're doing a bridal shower, reception, baby shower, birthday, christening, or any kind of celebration, she will create a look that is completely customized to you and your event.

She even made me my own candle lumie with the knack logo and background!  And Danielle showed me ones that used photos of Tarzan and Jane, which made for memorable event, I'm sure!! 

I can't think of a better way of making an event really look and feel like your own - just look at all of the possibilities:

- these gorgeous deep Damask Love Lumies are classic and yet have a decidedly modern feel (perfect for a wedding or anniversary, don't you think?)

- the Perfect Centerpiece will make your wedding stand out from the crowd

- why use standard name/place cards when you can use these gorgeous Votive Wraps

You get the dramatic feel of the candle light and the customized look to match your special day. All beautifully - and carefully - wrapped. 

Sigh.

Illumienate's Luminaries are one of most beautiful, best finds I've ever come across and I don't think I'll ever want to have an event without them.

Yep, they are most definitely a must.

Shop now and forever be the envy of your friends, family and colleagues.

Spritz Your Favourite Scents On The Go with the Sen7 Fragrance Atomizer

Do you apply perfume just once in the morning or do you like to reapply before heading out in the evening?

I've just discovered the wonderful Sen7,  a sexy little modern fragrance atomizer that allows you to keep your favourite perfume close on hand so you can freshen up anytime, anywhere.

Sen7 has made fragrance atomizers that not only look damn sexy (James Bond Girls wouldn't look out of place with one), but are small enough to fit into your teeniest clutches and purses. They also fit comfortably in your hand - no hard edges here.

Just lightly press the top and your fragrance is gently released. The sen7 funnel allows you to refill it quickly and with ease.

I like having one stashed in my everyday bag so that if I forget to spritz before heading out for the day, I can do it on the go. And I love this option for traveling - I don't want to bring my big, beautiful and ornate perfume bottles and have to cram them into my luggage where they are sure to break (and it takes me years to go through a bottle of perfume - I don't want to have to lug that around with me, worrying if it's going to leak or break all over my clothes and belongings. The Sen7 allows me to bring enough so that I won't run out (5.8 mL- up to 70 sprays!) and I can leave my precious bottles at home. Win-win.

And the design is just gorgeous - who wouldn't want to carry this beauty around with them? In all these colours, including the classics? Buy two and swap the tops for even more colour options! You know that every time you pull it out, conversations will quiet and all heads will turn your way.

I wear perfume every day and Sen7 allows me to put it on whether I'm in a hotel room in Bangkok or simply 2 blocks away out for dinner.

Shop the entire Sen7 collection and smell great all the time.

p.s. These make a fantastic gift  - for your friends, bridesmaids, family, etc..

You're Going to Fall in Love With Michelle Chang Jewelry

"Statement" necklaces, bib necklaces, earrings as big as a pickup truck and cuffs hang like thick croissants off the wrist often get a lot of attention in fashion mags.

But I think that it takes real talent to create a delicate, fine piece that rests on the clavicle, inviting you to step closer and see up close.

One of the finest designers I've found is Michelle Chang of Michelle Chang Jewelry. Her ethereal pieces in muted golds and silver are whimsical, modern and everlasting. And each piece is handmade, making it completely yours and yours alone.

I am smitten with the Manta Ray Pendant Necklace in Sterling Silver (pictured above). It is fluid like mercury, but flattened against your neck. It acts as a kind of unique amulet. I think it's downright sexy. And thought they are closely related to sharks, manta rays are harmless creatures (they don't even have teeth!) and solitary, so it's nice to be able to have one so close. I think of it as my

I swooned for the Small Wishbone Necklace in Sterling Silver as soon as I laid eyes on it. As a food-obssessed writer, it is a perfect ode to my profession, as well as what I am think about most often. Michelle's wishbone in particular is so feminine and pretty that it has become somewhat of an everday necklace for me, something I've never had before.

These are just two of the many incredible designs that Michelle has. You should really take a look at all of them.

Oh, and if that's not fantastic enough, get this - it's really affordable. Handmade, original designs at these prices? Don't be surprised if you buy in bulk. Actually, you'd be crazy not to!

The holiday season is coming fast. Now you've got:

- a place to get your holiday jewelry, and

- a place to get gifts that will not on be loved, but actually used.

Shop the Michelle Chang Jewelry collection now and get exquisite, memorable jewelry that you will cherish forever.

Discover Fun, Modern Cards at Spiffy Press!

Ooh, I love me a great card.

You know the ones that you grab and say, "Oh, this is P-E-R-F-E-C-T!"?

That's ALL the cards at Spiffy Press.

Each time I thought, no, it can't get any better than this, it did, and I'd find another one.

The All Occasion Cards are exactly what you want to send to friends, family and colleagues:

- Nerd in that big, beautiful, bada** font tells your friend who blogs and tweets like a tween and likes to read The Economist for fun, that you care.

- Chill (pictured above) is so awesome, I almost want to keep it. But instead, I'm sending it off to stressed-out folks. God, it's not even November yet, nevermind December. Better buy these ones in bulk.

- I can think of a whack of people I could send this one to - That's What She Said -  but the one that says this phrase over and over is going to be the recipient. In fact, since he's moving later this month, this will be him and his husband's new home card. See, I told you - perfect!

For Thank Yous, which I send all the time (right now, my list is at 8), I think THKS is fantastic - simple and uber modern. Just what I need. Isn't it great when a card says it all, so that you don't have to?

Personally, I don't think this Mom card needs to be relegated all the way out here in the Mother's Day section. It's suitable for so many folks, don't you think (though admittedly, it will probably be sent to my Moms - how can I resist?!)

And if you're looking for custom cards or holiday cards (it's less than 2 months away!), Spiffy Press will do that to. You can also order your custom mix in a boxed sets of blank note cards or get/give the Card O’ the Month Club! It’s the perfect gift "for someone who appreciates hand-printed designs with a modern spirit!"

All letterpress cards are made from 100% cotton, tree-free paper and are accompanied with 100% recycled paper-bag envelopes (sooo cute and what a great idea!). 

All cards are blank inside, so you finally get to say what you want.

Which is really the point, isn't it?

Spiffy Press Cards are phenomenal. Why send anything less?

Pass On Your Best Wishes with Regreet!

I still believe in sending cards and letters through the mail.

Call me old fashioned, but I love giving people something to hold onto. Doesn't it feel like so much more than an email? I think so.

And I know that you might be thinking - we shouldn't be wasting paper!

I don't think it's a waste at all, but I do think that Regreet has come up with a fantastic solution to sending cards AND saving the planet and yourself some money. Have you seen how much cards are these days?

Watch the video to see how it works (Christy Eichers, President & Founder, explains it so much better than I could)!

Isn't that amazing? You can repurpose 8 cards with just Regreet Greeting Kit!

Each greeting kit contains:

- Materials to repurpose four greeting cards (4 journey labels, 4 signature labels, 4 sheets of notepaper, 4 envelopes)

- Four hop along kits to ensure each card continues on its journey (4 signature labels, 4 sheets of notepaper, 4 envelopes). Send one of these kits along with a card you regreet so the recipient can keep it going (and you can watch its progress online!)

I've already used almost all of my kit up - we have 12 birthdays in November alone!

And here's a great idea: Once you've received cards for your birthday, anniversary, etc., put them in this amazingly sturdy and beautifully designed Greeting Card Organizer. That way, when March rolls around and it's time to send off birthday greetings to Uncle Joe, you've got a card ready and waiting!  

Just imagine the time, energy, money and stress you'll save by having both of these amazing items in your life!

Life is hard enough without having to rush around to get yet another card for yet another occasion. Use Regreet and save yourself and the planet.

It just makes sense!

Celebrate With Quady's Incredible Essensia Dessert Wine

Being a restaurant reviewer, I have had the luxury of being able to eat way beyond my means.

I have also been able to compare the good with the bad, the mediocre with the sublime.

Though I am in no way a sommelier or wine afficiendo, I have learned through many a tasting how to identify a well-crafted dessert wine.

A bad dessert wine is bracing, acidic and achingly sweet.

A great dessert wine is warm and slightly sweet.  Quady Winery has been making wine since 1975 and their Essensia (2007 World Wine Championship) is one of the best I've ever had.

I like the unexpected aroma of orange blossom and apricots. Made with 100% Orange Muscat grape from California, it is fruity, but subtle.  There is no sickly sweetness or stickiness that I've found with lesser wines, and the finish is just as exquisite as when it first reached your taste buds.

Aged in 3 months in French Oak, there is a richness that I haven't experienced before in dessert wine. So pair it with chocolate, fruit, dessert or serve it on its own after dinner.

If I could choose only one dessert wine, I would choose Essensia.

And with Thanksgiving,Christmas coming up and all of the dinners and gathering in between, don't you want a wine you can absolutely count on?

Discover Cute & Affordable Jewelry From Total She

My wardrobe tells of my many sides:

- sleek dresses, pencil skirts, flowing pants and dressy blouses for restaurant reviews and fancy nights out

- jeans, tees and casual tops for long walks and hanging out 

- workout gear for keeping slim, despite eating and sitting writing for a living

I think that your jewelry should tell a similar story.

Total She offers fun and flirty jewelry that won't cost an arm and a leg.  Choose from bracelets, earrings, pendants & chains, and personalized jewelry & gifts for both men and women.

Each piece is named for someone, such as the Grace CZ Pendant and Chrissy Bracelet with matching Meaghen earrings!

I got the Stephanie Earrings (pictured above) natch.

They are stainless steel and hypo-allergenic, so I can wear them without worry of infection. They are cute and really light. And since they're only $20, I can afford to get the Colleen Pendant (which will bring my friend Colleen to mind) and these pretty Audrey Earrings.

Choose jewelry from Total She and get pieces to match all your sides.

Discover the Beauty & Serenity of Meditation Rings

I am trying to live in the now, be present and be aware.

But I fail miserably at is most days.

So when I saw the stunning Meditation Rings, I thought, "Ooh, this is just what I need."

And who doesn't want new, beautiful jewelry that does more than just look good?

Based on ancient Tibetan Prayer Wheels,the practice of turning and spinning is said to do many things including enhance compassion and help you find a peaceful state of mind.

These beautiful  hand-hammered, 9 Kt Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation Rings help you to decrease your stress by moving/spinning one or several of the bands, depending upon which design you choose.

You'll be amazed at how simple it is and how quickly it goes to work on your anxieties and worries.  These rings are not only gorgeous (don't you just love the juxtaposition of the different materials, colours and textures?), but are also said to "bring good luck & fortune" to the wearer.

A lot of people play with their rings anyway, so why not have one that helps reduce your stress and calm your mind at the same time?

I have been wearing the 9 KT Gold & Sterling Silver Meditation ring with one Yellow Gold spinning band (pictured above) and I love the motion of spinning the gold band around the silver ring. Having studied Japanese and Tibetan Buddhism, I can tell you that the peace that comes with this simple act is bigger than you can imagine. But you don't have to practice Buddhism to benefit from this amazing jewelry.

Our lives are so hectic and hurried these days, that it's wonderful to take a moment and just be quiet and calm.

How wonderful is it that you don't have to spend time on the floor on a mat or away at a retreat, but simply wear an exquisite ring from Meditation Rings?

What a fantastic present for both you and those around you!

Shop now.

Smart Glass Recycled Jewelry - Drink It. Wear It. LOVE It!

I can't think of a better necklace than a Smart Glass necklace for me.

After all, what better gift for a food writer than the Murano Necklace (pictured above)?

In the words of Atlanta Designer Kathleen Plate, "Inspired by the artists of Murano, Italy, this necklace combines the best shapes, colors, and textures of our most popular pieces."

It's striking for sure. And really, I don't have anything like it in my collection.

But here's the best part - it's made from food and drink bottles! Kathleen, you're a woman after my own heart.

The aqua part is from a sake bottles, the pine coloured "o" is from a red wine bottle and the clear glass part in the middle? From a salad dressing bottle!! 

And there's no way that Kathleen could know how much I love salad (So much that I have one pretty much everyday. So much so that when I make one at home, our cat Cosmo comes over for a lick of dressing).

What a ingenious idea. 

It's no wonder Aveda came to her for an order and Coca-Cola commissioned her to create a line of jewelry using their signature bottles.

And there's something so satisfying about wearing not only beautiful jewelry, but one with a past. Jewelry that has been shaped and cared for by hand.

Kathleen has a real eye for design and detail. After all, she finishes the Murano with delicate silver strands that add a decidedly modern edge, but with a slight flapper feel. 

Check out the entire Recycled"Open" line, where the Murano lies, and be sure to stop by the Coca-Cola licensed products, Boutique line, Rings and Cufflinks, Recycled, Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets, Home and Hardware and Guys line.

I think you just got a new place to do all of your present buying. 

I know I did.

Discover the Most Stunning Jewelry by Philippa Roberts

"Oh my!" I exclaimed when I opened the box.

Beneath my fingers lay the most exquisite, delicate jewelry by Philippa Roberts.

It's the kind of jewelry that seems understated at first, but is completely and utterly breathtaking up close.

Her different collections show her range in use of colour, materials and textures.  Just look at Butter, Dusk and Delight are. Many designers get stuck in one solitary look, but Phillppa has really shown that she can work in a number of ways.

All of them so beautiful.

She works in both gold and silver and uses pearls and  semi-precious stones to create texture and shape.  But she has this unbelievable touch.

Check out the gorgeous Beach Collection that arrived on my doorstep:

You can't tell how finely crafted these Eclipse in Vermeil Earrings are by the picture. And the size too. They are a medium size, so they stand out without being ostentatious.

Perfect.

I don't normally wear gold (blonde hair, pinkish skin), but this gold isn't the bright stuff that your parents wear. This is muted, almost brushed, giving it a modern look and feel. I feel fantastic in this gold!

I wore the Ruffled Circle in Vermeil with Apatite, Chalcedony and Aqua Necklace the first day it arrived. It was the last meeting of our book club and I was wearing an ocean blue dress. I saw the necklace and thought how pretty it would look with it.

Oh, the compliments! Again, it is Philippa's tremendous talent that allows you to wear such delicate pieces and yet make a statement. I love the warbly gold ring and the pale sea-coloured stones are so peaceful. I like that it's different but not too out there. 

And the ultimate compliment? I met my fella afterwards and he said how pretty my necklace was. You know it's good when...

I have been looking for decades for a bracelet like the Double Chalcedony  Bracelet (pictured above).

The soft look of the stones finished a gold ring clasp, done in a similar fashion to the necklace and earrings, makes it such a exquisite addition to your outfit.  And unlike most bracelets that droop and run up and down my arm, I put it on and it fit perfectly.

Ahhhh.

I could go on and on, but I think you probably want to go and get yourself some of Philippa Roberts Jewelry.

Tennessee T-Cakes - The Ultimate Southern Confection

I love the South. Especially the food.

It's hard to come by in these here parts, so when I find something authentic, I cling to it.

I had never heard of Tennessee T-Cakes before. What a story! Click here to read about the legend.

Now Frances Barkley, T-Cakes Founder, is keeping the tradition alive, using natural ingredients such as malted barley flour, folic acid, butter, whole eggs, pure cane sugar and pure vanilla. There are no preservatives, so they have a shelf life of approximately 3 weeks and at least 6 months in the freezer.

These powder-dusted treats (not quite a cake or a muffin) are incredibly addictive and like nothing else you've ever had before.

Tenneessee T-Cakes come in beautiful boxes or tins. Either way, I recommend getting at least one of each flavour - Original, Key Lime, Lemon, Chocolate Truffle, Raspberry or the Assorted box.

Once you have one, you're going to want a bunch more.

Shop at Ten Thousand Villages and Make a Real Difference!

Ten Thousand Villages is a non-profit Fair Trade organizations that sells stylish, ethnically-inspired and ethically sources products in stores and online.

They provide vital, fair income to Third World people by marketing their handicrafts and telling their stories in North America.

By shopping at Ten Thousand Villages, you can buy gifts with meaning, green gifts and shop ethically for you and your home all in one convenient location. Just imagine how meaningful a graduation, wedding or anniversary gift when it's been handcrafted with such love, care and dedication. And they have a gift registry, which is wonderful.

You can choose from personal accessories, home furnishing, textiles, books and stationery, plant and garden, jewelry, skin care, food items, toys and musical instruments, some of which are made from reused, reclaimed, sustainable or organic materials.

Here are some of my recent favourites:

The Cotton Ikat Tablecloth w/ Gingham shows off the season's biggest trend and is just in time for patio season. Your backyard barbecue never looked better. On second thought, you'd better get the matching napkinsfor a truly complete look.

We use a Bamboo Folding Table as our coffee table so that our living room can work in a number of different ways.

I think the Natural & Lime Kaisa Basket is the perfect accent piece for my breakfast bar. And the Reverse Painted Serving Tray (pictured above) is a wonderful time saver when entertaining.

For no-fail gift giving, Portraits is a stellar choice, as is The BitterSweet World of Chocolate. Bookends are always useful and what about a wine rack that folds up? Perfect for taking up to the cottage for the week! And who doesn't love jewelry as a gift?

Being an avid cook, I love how fresh the food and ingredients are, as well as the fact it is all fairly-traded and much of it is organic - all at completely and affordable prices! I get my spices here (like their wonderful curry and za'atar) and I pay LESS for them than at my local grocery store!

Last year, I bought over half of my Christmas presents at Ten Thousand Villages and for once, I felt good about shopping. My purchases really meant something.

You can visit them online via the US or Canada or go in person to one of their many store locations.

You're Going to Love Red Letter Studio's Unique Stationery

Red Letter Studio is an exclusive boutique design studio based in Melbourne, Australia, specializing in unique stationery and invites.

Lucky for us, they are on the user-friendly site Etsy and ship internationally.

Red Letter Studio is the creation of Samone. She says:

"I love design and illustration, and creating little things of paper that make people smile is really addictive. Cards, invites, custom stationery, anything cute and colourful grabs my attention and I hope to share this with you through Red Letter Studio. All my projects are hand-made and designed by me in my little studio, which means each item is unique and individual.

Custom projects are my fave, like event stationery and invites - convo me if you have a special event or a project coming up, and I will do my best to take what you have in mind and create it!"

Isn't it wonderful when someone's clearly doing not only what they love, but what they are good at? Just look at the detailing - the hewn edging, the hand-stitched borders, hand-crafted additions and beautiful stamped images on the envelopes. How amazing is that?!

I love Samone's Blue Wren Native Aussie Bird Card. The plump feathers in rich blues and browns is so lovely. Wouldn't this be a great Father's Day card this Sunday? That is, if you can keep yourself from framing it for yourself...

And I can't wait to send on the Cardamon Bird Card! So pretty and feminine, don't you think? I know a ton of people that would love this card (maybe you should get the Birdie Birds Card Set, just to be safe...)

Speaking of card sets, the Travels Card Set is a great way to express your sentiments. The Sailing Card reminds me of the famous woodblock print, "The Great Wave Off Kanagawa" by the Japanese artist Hokusai. Which we just happen to have a print of in our living room...

And in the spirit of warm, summer weather, you've got to get yourself the Lickity Notepad! To me, there is no better way to compile your shopping list.

Red Letter Studio makes handcrafted items with great care, style and heart.

Aren't those the kinds of cards you want to send? Isn't that the kind of small business that you'd like to support?

Shop now!

Ork City Neighbourhood Posters Bring Your Street Cred Indoors!

I am always amazed when people leave their hometown, travel the world and then settle right back where they grew up.

Really? You've been to Hong Kong and Buenos Aires and you're going to live in Oklahoma?

I'm one to talk. I live where I grew up.

That's why you've got to get yourself an Ork City Neighbourhood Poster. They are not only beautiful to look at and ingeniously designed, but they get you right in the ol' heart. I mean, this is a place you live, that you're proud of, that helped shape who you are and what you believe in.

Just look at all the cities available. That means you can get them for all your friends and family. I mean, doesn't this make the most fantabulous gift? It's art and memento all in one! Ah, the perfect wedding present.

I got Toronto, of course. It's amazing to see how communities are created and formed. I have discovered new names and areas of a place I thought I knew inside and out. It's absolutely fascinating! For my friend Allison, I can get either NYC or Manhattan. You can see how easy gift-giving just became.

Jenny Beorkrem, designer and founder of Ork Inc. has created something so heart-wrenchingly wonderful, that you'll soon be writing her, asking to add more cities to her roster, because you'll want to send one to everyone you know.

And you'll be pleased to know that Ork not only uses soy-based inks and 100% recycled paper, but priced these hand-crafted posters reasonably.

That's right. It's the perfect gift.

Get yours now. Get a bunch. Get one of each. Get 'em!