The Bees Kneez

Valerie Guerrero founded The Artisan Group in early 2011 as a means for many different artisans to feature their wares and gift celebrities at some of Hollywood’s top gift lounge events. In addition to her work with The Artisan Group, Valerie is also the designer and creative force behind the popular online paper goods shoppe, The BeezKneez, founded in 2008. The BeezKneez offers designer invitations, announcements, stationery, paper goods, and other customizable gifts such as stylish iPhone, iPad, and BlackBerry cases, and other personalized keepsakes. Guerrero gifted all attending celebrities at GBK’s Golden Globes Gift Lounge with a lovely collection of designer notecards with envelopes. — www.BeezKneezDesigns.com

Wee Bindery

“Designing and creating unique handmade journals, notebooks and sketchbooks are the passion of Wee, the artist behind Wee Bindery.  Each book is hand sewn utilizing her own binding designs or centuries old binding techniques.  She loves to work with exotic papers from around the world, recycled materials, vintage materials, embellishments, fabric and leather in the creation of her books. You might even find one of her original paintings gracing the cover of a book.  Her books can be found in the hands of writers around the world.  Look for her work in pending publications:  Making Mini Books:  Big Ideas for 30+ Projects  by Lark Books in addition to M & T Special Materials & Technology in Graphic Design by Dopress Books.  She is a member of the Guild of Book Workers.” www.WeeBindery.etsy.com

13 Black Cat Designs

Nikki Cutro is the fine artist behind the name 13 Black Cats Designs. She is also the co-founder/partner of the Artisan Group. Nikki has always been an artist however she has not always acted upon it until 2007 when three major life upheavals caused her life to take a turn she was not expecting. She began illustrating and painting again with watercolors and decided to post some work online with a company called Zazzle not expecting that much in return. When her work began to sell she began to take it seriously. Just recently she took her two loves, painting and jewelry making and combined them to make unique wearable art. Each piece is hand-painted on canvas, signed and then set into a pendant. Her website is www.13BlackCatsDesigns.com a name she chose because she thought two typically “unlucky” things could cancel each other out to make something lucky.

the crimson poppy

The crimson poppy began in 2009 when Jenny Jafek-Jones – “the gardener” – made origami flowers for her own May wedding. She liked the whimsical result, but thought, “wouldn’t it would be cool if the flowers looked real.” And so she started down the path to the incredibly lifelike flowers she makes today. Entirely self-taught, Jenny found patterns online and in turn-of-the-century craft books, but real flowers are her true inspiration. (When family members bring flowers home, they put them away for fear that Jenny will pull the blossoms apart to reveal more of Mother Nature’s mysteries.) the crimson poppy offers more than 100 handcrafted flower varieties – roses, daffodils, tiger lilies, peonies, you name it – as well as beautiful wedding bouquets and custom arrangements; unique gift roses made from vintage sheet music or treasured family photos; pins, hair combs, and other accessories; and Do-It-Yourself Paper Flower Kits. Flowers from the crimson poppy have been featured in BRIDES, Southern Weddings, Paper Runway, and now at gift lounges at the 2012 Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Jenny has done weddings for couples from New York to California, and she ships her blossoms and DIY kits all over the world from her little shop of paper flowers in Stillwater, Oklahoma, where she lives with her husband, daughter, and eighteen pairs of scissors. www.thecrimsonpoppy.com

Simply Paperie

Simply Paperie is the creative endeavor of owner/designer Laura Hudson. Laura is a graphic designer based in Kansas City, MO with a shop is full of a variety of paper products! She has been creating art for as long as she can remember and is thrilled that her love of paper has grown into a blossoming career! One of her favorite things to do is create custom wedding designs. Working with brides to bring their dreams to a reality is such a joyful feeling! Along with weddings, Laura designs wedding and baby shower, as well as party invitations. Her line of designer stationery includes note cards, calendars, notepads, and stickers. Laura also produces handmade journals, many of which she embellishes with her handmade flowers and ruffles. And most recently she has started designing her own papers for the covers of her journals. Laura is constantly inspired by the world around her. Colors, textures, art, architecture and patterns are influences that fuel her creativity and help her push forward exploring and creating new designs. She is thrilled to have been a part of the 2012 GBK Golden Globes Celebrity Gift Lounge!  www.SimplyPaperie.com

The Write Stuff Design

The Write Stuff specializes in re-purposing everyday objects such as books, maps and game boards into fashionable accessories for the home and for the intellectual chic woman.  Our most popular product is the Book Purse.  As a former teacher, Kelly Mitchell wanted to show off her love of literature in a fashionable way that would encourage women to talk about their love of books in a fun and fashionable manner.  These book purses give new life to literature by making a good book the best fashion statement!  The exterior cover of the books are retained and designed with coordinating fabric and handles to create a fun stylish purse.   Every part of the book is then recycled as the interior pages are molded into individual paper flowers or unique whole book sculptures.  Whether through paper or stitches, The Write Stuff Design strives to come up with creative concepts and designs for the fashionable intellect. www.thewritestuffdesign.com

Confections by Shara’s Paperie

Shara’s Paperie is a premier line of personalized gifts, stationery and invitations sold through www.shopconfections.com.  The owner and designer, Shara Danziger has a love and passion for all things design and it shows in the depth and breadth of the line. “I wanted to bring something new and different to the marketplace,” said Danziger.  Vibrant colors, fabulous patterns and a wide variety of products are the hallmark of our line.  The Confections line offers a look that is completely unique and appeals to a wide variety of clients by blending illustration with graphic design. The line’s exclusive designs and flexibility with customization make Confections by Shara’s Paperie stand out in the market of personalized gifts, stationery and invitations. The Confections line was introduced to Memphis in September, 2008, and achieved nationwide reach with the summer 2009 with the launch of www.shopconfections.com. Most recently, Confections released a group of new products including personalized pillow cases, iPad folios, framed magnetic dry erase boards, clipboards and cell phone covers. Notable projects include designing custom coasters for the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospital for Children Open in 2009, being featured in the Parents Magazine 2010 Holiday Gift Guide and the Women’s Day Magazine 2011 Kids’ Holiday Gift Guide as well as participating in a luxury gifting lounge for the Golden Globe and Oscars award ceremonies. www.confectionsbysharaspaperie.com

Tear Drop Paperie

Holly Hatam has been an artist since she could hold a pencil. With diplomas in fine arts and in graphic design, Holly worked as a professionalgraphic designer before she founded TearDrop in 2004.  Devoted to inspire and make people laugh with her paper products, Holly feels an obligation to help people celebrate life’s little and big events! Holly started creating invitations when her friend Melissa pleaded and begged her to design her wedding invitations. After countless, enjoyable hours of watching Melissa beg like a baby, Holly succumbed to the challenge! The response Holly got from her design brought about warm, fuzzy feelings…and from that day on she constantly had a craving for paper! Endless passions…Holly is inspired by people — her favourite past time is to observe, stare and oogle. She looks at people through her artist’s eye and appreciates and illustrates quirky and unique facial features. Holly’s other passions include spending time hugging trees, filling up her pantry with tea and sticking her nose in a book. Her dream is to attend The Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry…no joke. Holly’s other loves include, paint fights, silly words, her cat’s wet nose, and despite not having met one yet, dinosaurs…grrrr, arrgh! www.teardroppaperie.com

Java Jane Designs

Andie Dietz, founder and owner of Java Jane Designs, does more than create personalized gifts. As her customers often remark, Andie’s artwork “captures the heart.” Her elegant creations feature stunning black and white letters of the alphabet photographed from architectural details artfully arranged to spell a name or word. Each custom keepsake is thoughtfully designed and meticulously handcrafted with the gift recipient in mind, making it the ultimate keepsake for commemorating special moments such as weddings, housewarmings, anniversaries, and baby showers. Andie developed her signature photography style through a love of travel and exploration. Her whimsical photographs evoke a sense of stillness and beauty, highlighting elements of forgotten architecture that are often rusty and weathered, but yet delicate and ornate. Andie’s elegant handcrafted custom artwork is shared with clients around the globe celebrating life’s biggest moments and has been featured in galleries and high-end gift boutiques throughout the US. You can visit her shop at www.JavaJaneDesigns.etsy.com.

Shara’s Paperie

Confections by Shara’s Paperie opened in 2008 after the success of our brick and mortar personalized gift, stationery and invitation store, Shara’s Paperie. Confections is a unique online gift shop that allows visitors to shop and add their own personal design touch to a wide range of products. Our product line includes personalized pillow cases, clipboards, magnetic dry erase boards, cell phone cases and much more. Be sure to check out our website www.shopconfections.com to find your favorite products and designs. The Confections line offers a look that is completely unique and appeals to a wide variety of clients by blending illustration with graphic design. The line’s exclusive designs and flexibility with customization make Confections by Shara’s Paperie stand out in the market of personalized gifts, stationery and invitations. When the Confections line was introduced to Memphis in September, 2008, they achieved nationwide reach with the summer 2009 launch of www.shopconfections.com. Notable projects include designing custom coasters for the Justin Timberlake Shriners Hospital for Children Open in 2009, being featured in the Parents Magazine 2010 Holiday Gift Guide and the Women’s Day Magazine 2011 Kids’ Holiday Gift Guide as well as participating in a luxury gifting lounge for the Golden Globe and Oscars award ceremonies.

Taradara

Taradara is sewing company owned by Tara Rex {aka TRex}. This creative soul has brought ‘pretty’ to electronic accessories with her whimsical award winning covers. Taradara iPad covers have won ‘Best Product of the Year’ at the 2011 Moms in Business Unite Conference Inventor Showcase in Denver. Her iPhone covers are in the hands of celebrities who attended the Golden Globes. Taradara’s iPhone AND iPad covers are in the hands of the top Macworld journalists as well. Not only does she make covers, she makes wallets, passport covers, card holders, and much more at prices that will fit anyone’s budget. Taradara is an up and coming handmade business and an inspiring Mompreneur. You can visit her blog at taradaramadeit.com to learn more about TRex and see her amazing products. www.etsy.com/shop/taradara

On Your Feet

When Gary Hirsch was growing up he had a lot of nightmares. On these nights he would sit with his father in the kitchen and draw the monsters from his nightmares. They would stay up for hours and his Dad would help him name these creatures. One his father leaned over and said, “ You know, If  you can draw them, then you can also erase them.” So Gary would draw and erase and after a while the nightmares came a bit less frequently. These days Gary is obsessed with doodling robots…on dominos. These little guys are designed to interact with the viewer, to give you outrageous compliments (Joy Bot), tell you how much you are loved (Love Bot), Help you be brave (Brave Bot), etc.  It’s all about the story they tell the viewer, they help you have a conversation with yourself. Of course the Bots don’t actually talk, but something about them allows people to imagine that they do, and somehow this helps them feel better, and that is what makes them so much fun. Gary has shown his work in galleries, streets, and museums in Cleveland, Melbourne, Chicago, Seattle, and in his current home of Portland Oregon where you can see his large public works commissioned by the city. Gary has shown his work in galleries, streets, and museums in Cleveland, Melbourne, Chicago, Seattle, and in his current home of Portland Oregon where you can see his large public works commissioned by the city. When not painting Gary runs a 12 person creative consultancy On Your Feet (www.oyf.com) that uses improv theater and visual art to help some of the world’s most successful companies (Nike, Intel, Disney, and others) communicate and relate…all while having a ridiculously good time.

Helena Pion Photography and Design

37-year old Helena Pion was born and raised in Portugal, but life and love brought her to British Columbia, Canada. Having always worked as a translator, in 2009, she pursued her true passion and ventured into selling her creative photography work in an online US shoppe, and hasn’t looked back since. She quickly began designing as well, and everything is available on a variety of products you can easily personalise, if you so wish. From invitations to mobile cases, the customer can alter the templates for free simply with a couple of mouse clicks. Her shoppes showcase a myriad of textures, patterns, nature and macro photography on items that are useful as well as trendy. A truly ingenious idea for this photographer & designer’s work! www.zazzle.com/helenapion

Dave Dilli Photography

Dave Dilli has been photographing the beauty of the desert southwest for more than the past decade. His photographic style has evolved over time to what is now a vivid representation of the mood and essence of the scene as he felt it when the image was taken. From the softness of a delicate sunrise reflecting off the stillness of a lake, to the dramatic and visceral moods generated by a desert monsoon, Dave strives for the image to display the mood and emotions that he felt when the image was taken.

Dave has been a featured artist at the Raw Natural Artists Phoenix Showcase in 2011, and well as numerous other local art exhibits. Based in Phoenix Arizona, Dave Dilli Photography displays images from throughout California, Utah, Arizona and beyond. Visit him at www.Davedilli.com

Tina Dean Designs

Tina Dean Designs (“TDD”) is an upscale eco handbag company based outside of Washington, DC in Stafford, Virginia. Tina Allen specialize in upcycling/repurposing plastic bags and VHS tape into beautiful, useful accessories that are eco-friendly, easily cared for and fashionably fabulous. She is a mom-preneur and crochet artisan,and she meticulously handcrafts each item. She has been featured as a Small Business of the Day on Fox Small Business, on Fredericksburg.com, and on GoGreenAmericaTV.com. She recently, through The Artisan Group, gifted Cari Cucksey (of HGTV’s Cash & Cari) and was thrilled when Cari personally named the tote. You can see the Cash & Cari Tote here as an example of her work..

Seasons Of Wool

One of the items in the gift bags for the Golden Globe gift lounge was a pair of lightweight felted alpaca cuffs. The cuffs are knit from a lace-weight alpaca, then shrunk to size. Each pair of cuffs was then needle felted and embellished in one of 5 styles, all related in some way to the natural world. The cuffs are designed to be worn alone, or with gloves or mittens for added warmth. Felted wool and alpaca are hypoallergenic, odor resistant, thermal (keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer), water resistant and quite durable (comparable to leather).

In her shop, Lucy Chapman specialize in using natural fibers and repurposed materials to create usable felt works of art. You’ll find a wide range of products for the fashion conscious and outdoorsman alike. She offer hats, mittens, fingerless gloves, purses, totes, recycled sweater blankets, baskets, and more. she always welcome custom orders and loves to make a treasured piece that will last a lifetime. www.seasonsofwool.etsy.com

Lighting should be both functional and artistic. Renowned Italian lighting manufacturer, FLOS, has perfected this concept bringing both functionality and an abstract form of art into their new product line, which is showcased in their new showroom located on the historic Robertson Blvd. Chairman and CEO of FLOS, Piero Gandini and designer Ron Gilad were both in attendance on November 29^th for the grand opening of the new location.

Just in time for this Holiday season, FLOS has released new lamp designs which include: Piani (designed by Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec), Kelvin LED Floor (designed by Antonio Citterio) and Mini Kelvin (designed by Antonio Citterio). Each design adds a hint of contemporary and abstract flare to their always sleek and streamlined shape and are designed to fit and enhance any environment. Flos prides itself on the tradition of collaborating with only the most talented design professionals to keep their signature unique and trend-setting style alive.

The new Flos Showroom located at 303 N. Robertson Blvd in Beverly Hills.

FLOS and Los Angeles based lighting company, the Diva Group, partnered to create the showroom. The Diva Group is most known for their modern and contemporary furniture and lighting so it was a natural fit for the two to combine their design senses together.

“We are looking forward to partnering with the Diva Group on this new endeavor and location for Flos,” said Jan Vingerhoets, CEO of Flos USA. “Diva’s impressive collection of modern and contemporary furniture and lighting lines and designers fits with Flos’ aesthetic perfectly.”

FLOS classics such as Arco, Taraxacum and Toio by Castiglioni, as well as new favorites such as the Wallpiercing, the Lightspring and La Linea, and the inventive Miniteca table lamp, all designed by Gilad, the Ktribe by Philippe Starck, Glo-Ball by Jasper Morrison, and Skygarden and Zeppelin suspension lamps by Marcel Wanders are only a few of the products that will be featured inside the showroom.

For information on Flos lighting, visit www.flos.com.

About Flos

Founded in 1962 in Merano, Italy, FLOS is an international company that offers a range of lighting products and systems for residential and architectural purposes. Known for its creative and innovative lighting solutions, the company boasts a rich catalog of iconic products created by legends of design like Achille Castiglioni, Philippe Starck, Antonio Citterio, Marcel Wanders, Konstantin Grcic, Jasper Morrison, Patricia Urquiola, Ron Gilad, and many others. FLOS shows constant commitment to technological research and innovation, together with an extraordinary capacity to spot new creative talent. With the recent launch of the Soft Architecture collection, an avant-garde project, which has received top international awards, the company gave further proof of an established brand’s ability to look to the future without forgetting its own tradition. Flos has flagship stores in Rome, Milan, Paris, Hong Kong, Stockholm, London, New York and Lyon.

About Designer Ron Gilad

Born in Tel Aviv and now a resident of New York, Ron Gilad’s work combines a practical sensibility with an unexpected aesthetic verging on the borderline between the abstract and the functional. His work ranges from unique pieces to limited editions and series production, has no “expiry date” and can be found both in public and private collections all over the world. His designs for Flos are a continuation of the work for which he is so well known.

The Flos showroom is located at 303 N. Robertson Blvd. For more information, visit www.flos.com.

What is Belly Binding?

Belly binding has been used by many cultures around the world for more than 100 years and is still used today for newborns and infants. The Juju Band gives newborns a covering, allowing some relief from that constant contact from diapers and clothing, helping decrease the chance of infection and irritation. To help your baby achieve an “innie” belly button and heal after birth, one can employ Juju’s Newborn Navel Protector as well.

“Belly binding is something that we have practiced in my family for generations,” JuJu Band Co-­Founder Julie Acevedo explained, “but it wasn’t until recently that we felt like we truly perfected the art, and now we’re excited to share what we recreated!”

The belly binding is complete with an adjustable Velcro strap ,which is specially approved for cancer and burn patients, meaning it is extremely safe to use; making it convenient and easy for any family to use. The piece is handcrafted and simple, perfect for the on-the-go and busy family dynamics seen today. Juju Bands also have a cotton layer that is machine washable. The snugness of this protection also helps soothe colicky babies and those who fuss.

“It is critically important to keep the navel well protected and secure as the ‘stub’ prepares to fall off,” Acevedo said. “Even as it falls off, the JuJu Band is still helpful in reducing the risk of infection or irritation in newborns. And the infant belly binder offers immeasurable benefits when it comes to relieving colic.”

Click here to view the embedded video.

Juju Band’s Available Products

Made from the highest quality material in the U.S., Juju Band is bringing this tradition to the modern family. The Juju Binder (priced from $10.50 – $15.50) comes in a variety of styles and sizes: a Boys Collection (0-3 months), Girls Collection (0-3 months), Melrose Collection (0-3 months) and a Unisex Collection (0-3 months).

Juju also carries a Bib line ($9.50) with six styles, all made of cotton and machine washable. The Juju Blankie ($34.50) gives babies a nice and soft security blanket with available matching bib—six styles in the Blankies too. Nighttime means babies need a matching soft and fuzzy Juju Comforter ($34.50), and for the Juju babies that need everything, gift sets ($53 – $78) are available, mixing the 100 percent machine washable items into one collection.

Giving Your Baby the Gift of Juju Band

In three steps the signature, 100 percent eco-friendly Juju Bands can be put on your baby. First, place the Juju Band under the child. Next, bring both of the ends together to fasten securely. Finally, the fit should be snug, but not too tight for the baby.

Juju Band creators Julie Acevedo and Julio Guerra.

In Culver City, Calif.-based Juju Band’s official website, customer testimonials explain the impact these cotton pieces have had on their children, including customer Bobby Murrietta from San Fernando, Calif. He says, “I had heard of [JuJu Band] from my family members and decided to try it…it gave me comfort in knowing my son’s belly stump would be protected from germs and particles in the air. I continued to use this when he was an infant for his colic. Two uses in one? That was convenient for me!”

Luis Figureroa from Moreles, Mexico said, “When I grew up my grandparents used marbles to hold our navel in to create an innie belly button. My parents started to use a binder instead and all of the children have innie belly buttons. That is the main reason my parents used it, and that is the main reason my wife and I used it. It did help with the baby gas—that was an extra.”

They Put the ‘Ju’ ‘Ju’ in Juju

Julie Avecedo and Julio Guerra are the co-founders of Juju Concepts LLC, the parent company for Juju Band. Julie wanted to share the important family tradition with others and keep the practice alive in Central America. President of Juju Concepts Julio Guerra first worked in the fashion industry before working in entertainment and television. They each saw the Juju Band as a way to bring back “the forgotten age-old tradition, viewing the endless possibilities.”

For more information and to purchase the Juju Band products, visit www.Juju.com. The products also are available on Sears.com.

In a sea of delightfully emerging all-natural alternatives to previous chemical solutions for home cleaning products, GrabGreen is a standout. Grabgreen has an entire line of biodegradable, recyclable, extremely effective products that do a great job of cleaning – and are scented with amazing aromatherapy scents such as tangerine with lemongrass fragrance – a blend of sweet tangerine, grapefruit and bergamot with lush lemongrass. You can also get unscented if you have sensitivities.

Patricia Spencer developed GrabGreen cleaning products when she realized that the everyday supplies were harmful to her children. Now, MaddieBrit Products LLC is launching Spencer’s line of eco-friendly home cleaning products.

“I didn’t really start off as an eco-conscience person,” Spencer. “I’m just a mom who wants to keep her kids healthy.”

Spencer has two daughters and lives in Southern California. She recently examined the ingredients of her home cleaning products, finding that her laundry detergent and stain removal spray both consist of hazardous materials.

GrabGreen

“Rashes, respiratory problems, massive amounts of un-needed plastic,” Spencer said, explaining the many issues with the store bought cleaners. “I decided I was not going to compromise my kids’ safety or the environment like that, so I started developing detergent myself.”

She began developing the products but they weren’t officially launched until 2008 after she started a handful of other companies related to health and fitness. Then, she gained the assistance of organic chemists who continued perfecting her creation, including the powder detergent made from all natural ingredients and found in a dissolvable “pod” structure. The pods eliminate the need for large and bulky jugs of liquid detergent and reduce up to 98 percent of plastic waste, according to MaddieBrit.

MaddieBrit started after the investment capital was obtained from Michael Edell. MaddieBrit takes its name from Spencer’s two daughters: Maddie and Britney.

Camarillo, Calif.-based GrabGreen has an entire line of home cleaning products like detergents, room and fabric fresheners, glass cleaners, dish soap cleaner, bathroom and kitchen cleaning solutions.

GrabGreen

“The response has been fantastic,” Spencer revealed. “There’s a real need for safe, effective and affordable products and GrabGreen delivers on all three fronts. The positive feedback has been amazing!”

GrabGreen’s product line consists of organic and mineral-based ingredients and contains no dyes. The products also are never tested on animals. The packaging is biodegradable and recyclable, helping the environment too.

For more information and to buy the many products, visit GrabGreen’s official site at www.grabgreenhome.com.

Fabulous Florals is a source of fresh California flowers that can be delivered in bulk anywhere in the United states, including the cities of Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Scottsdale, Seattle and Dallas. Fabulous Florals is a smart choice for affordable bulk flowers to help turn every home into a source of interior design pride. Using fresh California flowers can inspire anyone’s inner floral designer to create DIY flower arrangements that balance and energize the settings they inhabit. Whether you are looking for bulk flowers that can be harvested for fresh petals or California flowers and greens that will fill the spaces they occupy with a variety of shapes, textures, scents and colors – Fabulous Florals can deliver.

Planning DIY Flower Arrangements with California Flowers from Fabulous Florals

Planning DIY Flower Arrangements with California flowers can be a chore, especially if you are searching for Los Angeles bulk flowers, Las Vegas bulk flowers, Scottsdale bulk flowers, Seattle bulk flowers or Dallas bulk flowers that are grown in a sustainable manner. Kathy Ireland and her company Fabulous Florals are committed to partnering with farms who grow California flowers in a sustainable way, and are sure to ship all their Los Angeles bulk flower orders, Las Vegas bulk flower orders, Seattle bulk flower orders, Scottsdale bulk flower orders, and Dallas bulk flower orders in an eco-friendly way. One way to find the best ideas for DIY floral arrangements is to peruse flower shows in your area. Most major cities host a flower show or home and garden show in the spring. featuring hundreds of vendors and displaying fresh designs for the year.

Los Angeles Bulk Flowers Chosen by Internationally Renowned Designers

With so many Los Angeles bulk flower providers of California flowers to choose from, do it yourself flower designers can benefit from the art of experienced designers who choose the best California flowers and plants from a variety of greenhouses and farms. The knowledge of the Fabulous Florals professional team headed by Kathy Ireland and Nicholas Walker give their Los Angeles bulk flower service an edge. When you choose to purchase your Los Angeles bulk flowers through Fabulous Florals you are experiencing the freshest choices for flower design from internationally renowned designers, and the selection is always changing.

Choosing Seattle Bulk Flowers for DIY Design Projects

If you live in or near Seattle, quality Seattle bulk flowers are a necessity for the most unique and satisfying DIY flower arrangements. Perhaps you live in the Northwest and relish every year at the very beginning of spring when you can get ideas for do it yourself floral design and purchase Seattle bulk flowers from the experts at the Northwest Flower and Garden show in downtown Seattle. For every other time of the year, do it yourself flower designers searching for quality Seattle bulk flowers can count on Fabulous Florals for the highest quality plants, foliage and flowers.

Dallas Bulk Flower Selection Made Easy

Dallas bulk flowers come in many shapes, sizes and qualities. Many interested in DIY flower arrangements and purchasing Dallas bulk flowers travel to the largest outdoor flower show in the Southwest called “Dallas Blooms,” with a flower show that runs every March to April. Whether you are a homemaker needing Dallas bulk flowers to make the house feel like a haven or an independent interior designer who always designs with fresh bulk flowers, Fabulous Florals can deliver Dallas bulk flowers with ease through their website. Flowers and plants on the website can be sorted by color, fragrance, occasion and season. Fabulous Florals offers delivery fresh to your door with eco-friendly packaging that ensures healthy plants, flowers and foliage in during every season.

Ordering Eco-Friendly Scottsdale Bulk Flowers Online

Do it yourself floral design hobbyists in the Phoenix area have plenty of places to get ideas for DIY flower arrangements but many travel to the Scottsdale Home and Garden Show which generally takes place in March. Scottsdale bulk flower buyers can check out displays from vendors and get ideas for designs throughout the year. Fabulous Florals is a year-round supplier of Scottsdale bulk flowers, shipping quality California flowers to Arizona and throughout the country. Scottsdale bulk flowers delivered through Fabulous Florals are packed in special eco-friendly boxes to keep flowers, foliage and plants cool and fresh throughout the delivery process. Fabulous Florals chooses partner farms and greenhouses who grow in a sustainable manner to ensure the least amount of impact possible.

Floral Design with Lavish Style – Las Vegas Bulk Flowers

Las Vegas bulk flower connoisseurs can admire the fresh flower displays at the lavish Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. To bring the artistry of the gardens to the flower arrangements in your home or office, choose Fabulous Florals for your Las Vegas bulk flower needs. Just like in the Bellagio Gardens, the selection at Fabulous Florals changes as per the season, meaning new California flowers for each season would be sent to fill every Las Vegas bulk flower order.

Read about Kathy Ireland’s Bulk Flower company Fabulous Florals here…

The SONY Bloggie fits easily in the palm of your hand, has a bright, 3.0’’ LCD screen, and weighs only 4.4 ounces, giving the device a sleek and elegant look of simplicity.

The LCD touch screen allows users to easily slide through their videos and photos, and will auto-rotate for vertical or horizontal viewing based on how the user is holding the camera.

With full HD video capturing ability on such a small device, the Bloggie makes it more convenient than ever to capture moments on video. Bloggie videos are recorded in the universally used MP4 format, allowing the owner to easily upload a video to Facebook or YouTube. 

Eliminating the hassle of cables, the Bloggie comes with a built in USB stick; the camera connects with no problem to any compatible computer.  The Bloggie also comes standard with an HDMI out port, allowing one to watch their recently recorded HD videos on their HDTV.

The 4GB Bloggie captures up to two hours of HD video, while the 8GB model captures up to four.

The Bloggie’s video camera also doubles as a high-powered, 12.8 megapixel photo capturing camera.  With this large of a megapixel count, photos are captured beautifully.  Dual Recording is also a feature of the Bloggie, allowing the user to take photos while recording a video.  The camera has 4x digital zoom, and a built in macro feature enabling the capture of stunning close-up photos.

Sleek to look at and capable of beautiful video and photo capture, SONY again impresses the electronic market with the release of the Bloggie, and Bloggie accessories (printers, attachable flashes, and cases etc.) make using the Bloggie even more intuitive and enjoyable. www.SonyStyle.com

(Informercial)

Sell My House in Glendale – A Good Place
First, the good news: As everyone told me when they found out I wanted to sell my house in Glendale, I wouldn’t have to worry about the first mantra of real estate. Location, location, location–it’s one of Glendale, CA’s best features. Glendale is close to all the attractions in Hollywood, downtown Los Angeles, and Pasadena. The seaside towns of Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Malibu are a couple of freeways away, while the mountains beckon on the other side of the valley. And family-friendly entertainment awaits too, such as Six Flags up north and Disneyland down south. Glendale is a great place to live, and I knew that many buyers would drop in to check out my property.

Sell My House in Glendale – A Clean Slate
As the old saying goes, godliness is next to cleanliness, and it was certainly at the top of my mind when I decided to sell my house in Glendale, California. However, I discovered that it has more than one meaning in the world of real estate. Of course, I knew I had to put in some serious effort with a broom, a brush, a mop, a squeegee, a hose, and lots of cleaning supplies. Believe it or not, that was the easy part–you can even hire someone else to do it, and depending on your home, they can take care of it in one weekend.

But a clean slate covers more than dirt and dust. I also had to clear my dwelling of trinkets and collectibles before I could expect to sell my house in Glendale. I put away my Pez dispensers, Beanie Babies, and football trophies for one simple reason: I wanted to make sure that potential buyers could picture themselves living under this roof, and they weren’t going to get there if they were continually reminded of my hobbies.

Sell my house in Glendale – Fix it up
After I cleared the shelves and dusted the corners, I moved to the next item on my to-do list for selling my house in Glendale. It was time to take care of all the repairs and fixes I’ve let slide. Once again, it was time to roll up my sleeves, but this time my attention shifted to the squeaky hinges, gaping cracks, leaky faucets, and broken window screens around the house. I knew that potential buyers would poke and prod at them the first chance they got, and I wanted to make sure everything would function exactly as expected.

Sell my House in Glendale – Professional inspections are Welcome
There’s no two ways about it: A professional inspection is absolutely necessary in order to sell your home in Glendale. Granted, you may dread to learn of their findings, especially if they require you to spend more money for repairs. However, it’s better to catch these problem spots before they discourage buyers from bidding on your home. In the best-case scenario, you can show off that clean bill from the inspectors and let your buyer know you have nothing to hide.

Sell my house in Glendale – Bring in a new set of eyes

Along with an inspector, a professional stager helped immensely in selling my home in Glendale. A stager, in case you don’t know, is a specialist who can look at your home, figure out its best aspects, and bring out those features for buyers to see. In many cases, it comes down to moving furniture and putting away other pieces to highlight your home’s most desirable features, such as a fireplace or a bright window. In other instances, a stager might replace your rugs and art pieces to attract buyers. Also like the inspector, a professional stager charges for his or her services, but this cost will be easily recouped when you successfully sell your home.

Of course, the nearby sights, including Venice Beach and Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade, beckon as well. It’s no wonder that the Marina del Rey Marriott is a LA’s The Place Top Pick for 2010!

‘Glow’-ing Reviews

The Marina del Ray Marriott isn’t your parents’ Marriott. Case in point: Glow, the open-air lounge at the heart of the Marina del Rey Marriott. No less an authority than Playboy magazine cites Glow as one of the top 10 lounges in Los Angeles, and you’ll understand why as soon as you see this stylish space. Young professionals are flocking to Glow, where they can enjoy the surrounding fire pits, water treatments, and soothing lights while they sip on delicious cocktails and snack on gourmet bites under the stars.

Renowned local DJs provide the soundtrack at Glow, while you can make it an even more memorable experience with premium bottle service or by reserving time in a private cabana. But don’t be mistaken–this is no sleazy nightclub. Instead, at Glow you can relax with friends, have a conversation, and enjoy the music, without feeling overwhelmed. Glow is open to hotel guests and the general public, so drop by anytime, whether you’re visiting from afar or from the other side of town.

Bon Appetit

When you’re done partying, you can drop in at the Stones Restaurant, right on the hotel premises, for California-style breakfast and dinner. You can also sate your appetite at the Lobby Bar for lunch or dinner. Spend the rest of your day lounging by or swimming in the full-length pool, or get your blood pumping at the on-site fitness center.

Local Entertainment

Looking for more activities? You don’t have to go far. Marina del Rey’s waterways are right outside the door, and the Pacific Ocean isn’t much further. The world-famous Venice Beach and boardwalk are a short walk away, or a quick drive will take you to family-friendly destinations, cultural hotspots, educational exhibits and more–it’s your call. Several golf courses are less than 10 miles away, and extensive natural resources are all around, including beaches, mountains, and parks.

World-Class Amenities

After all these fabulous activities, you’ll be happy to know that you can look forward to resting your head on a plush bed with down comforters and designer duvets. The Marriott turns up the treats in each smoke-free guest room with upgraded bath amenities, as well as 32-inch HDTVs. And for guests who tend to mix business and pleasure, every room includes a generous work desk, and high-speed Internet is available throughout the hotel.

Event Facilities

Speaking of business, the Marina del Rey Marriott offers the services of expert event coordination professionals should you want to host a big celebration such as a wedding or an important business meeting. You can make use of 25 meeting rooms and a total of 18,000 square feet of meeting space, including a poolside facility that seats 700 in a total expanse of 7,000 square feet. Atop the hotel, the magnificent Bayview Ballroom offers a sprawling 360-degree view of the Los Angeles basin, from the shoreline to the mountains–there’s even a helipad for the ultimate in grand entrances and dramatic exits! Of course, you can also use it as an outdoor dance floor or dining area; take your pick.

Think you know the Marriott? Think again. As a Top Pick of 2010, the Marina del Rey Marriott will reset all your expectations, starting with the Glow lounge and spreading to every other corner of this grand facility. Nurse a drink in the open air, explore the local attractions, or simply lay your head on the opulent bedding–the Marina del Rey Marriott can take care of you on all fronts.

For reservations, visit Marina del Rey Marriott.

At its flagship U.S. store, Aminach brings comfort, style, and function to your sleeping and relaxation hours with a full range of beds for all manner of environments. Shoppers in Studio City and beyond will see for themselves how.

Even better, Aminach’s beds were created with combination spaces in mind, where the bedroom may double as the living room or where the work space and living space come together.

Students and teens will love Aminach for the youthful, hip look, but sleepers of all ages will appreciate the state-of-the-art technology that ensures a good night’s rest.

The Aminach shop is stocked with the Sapapa line, designed with comfort, practicality, and fashion in mind. At the Aminach store, you’ll find 50 styles from the Classic and Extreme lines. More choices await, as shoppers can customize their bed frames and bed covers with different materials and color options.

Anyone buying for a teenager will be especially interested in knowing that the covers are removable, ready to change with your youngster’s shifting whims. Whatever your age, Sapapa’s versatility is limited by only your imagination.

The Sapapa Extreme line of beds comes in 19 designs, as well as a choice of a chrome or aluminum metal base. Young and young-at-heart sleepers may imagine the Sapapa Extreme as their favorite spaceship, race car, or simply their dream refuge. Each model is available in a range of sizes suitable for one or more people, or you can go directly to the U2, composed of two separate mattresses. Music lovers will be especially interested in the rock-theme Tornado, while sports fans will gravitate toward the aptly named Ski bed. In addition, another six models are available as sofa beds, including the Check In, with a form that recalls a more traditional sofa.

These innovative designs are supported by Aminach’s technologically advanced mattresses, which boast an advanced spring system, a VISCOJEL layer, spinal cord support, the Up&Down hydraulic mechanism, an option for a night lamp, Easy Lift for easy conversion of the lower bed, and a spacious storage compartment for extra bedding.

Aminach’s Sapapa collection lives up to its name, with more familiar silhouettes, but the same chic modernity remains intact. Ten styles of bed are available, including three with headboards, while another 19 styles of sofa beds round out the Classic line. Sapapa’s versatility doesn’t end there; customers can also choose among eight metallic finishes and seven wooden finishes for the perfect look on their colorful and vibrant bed frame. Behind the design, Aminach integrates the advanced Physical spring system, the Up& Down mechanism to adjust the sleeper’s head and shoulders, and an expansive area for bedding.

Aminach’s sofa beds, trundle beds, and couches are notable for their looks alone, but there’s more to these trendy pieces than eye candy. Aminach also brings its long list of technological breakthroughs in the field of sleep research to the Sapapa line of beds and furniture. Have you noticed how mattresses tend to sink in the middle over time, leading to discomfort and bad sleeping habits? Not with Aminach’s products, which incorporate the company’s Health Center system to reinforce the central third of the mattress. This leads to better protection for the spine and, ultimately, a good night’s rest.

Also of interest in Aminach’s Up & Down hydraulics system, which allows you to raise the headrest, footrest, and backrest, as well as control the light switch, all via a remote control. You may have seen some of this functionality in hospital beds or with the lurching, old-fashioned beds advertised on TV. However, Sapapa is vastly different from those counterparts; for one thing, Sapapa beds look as good as they feel. In addition, Sapapa combines the Up & Down system with Aminach’s extensive advancements and reputation for quality control.

As the saying goes, you spend one-third of your life in bed–so you’d better make sure you’re in the best environment possible for all those hours. Aminach takes those otherwise overlooked moments, adds a huge heaping of sleep science, then wraps it all up in a trendy package with its Sapapa collection of beds and sofa beds. Aminach boasts more than 60 years of experience in mattress manufacturing and 40-plus years in the production of spring mattresses, beds, and bedroom furniture, but ultimately, all you need to know is that you won’t hide your Sapapa sofa bed in the basement.

For more information on the full line of bedding products and accessories and the new Studio City location, go to: visit www.sapapa.com.

Aminach
12332 Ventura Boulevard
Studio City, CA 91604-2508
(818) 980-8045

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Amid the daily hubbub, it’s sometimes easy to forget that we Angelenos live in some pretty extraordinary surroundings. Fortunately for us locals, Terranea, the luxury oceanfront resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, serves as a reminder that paradise awaits in our back yard. Terranea is an LA’s The Place Top Pick for 2010.Situated right above the water’s edge, Terranea offers breathtaking views of the vast Pacific Ocean and pristine Catalina Island, and guests can spend their days at the resort being pampered at the world-class spa, conquering the 9-hole golf course, dining at any of Terranea‘s numerous culinary offerings, or simply taking in the natural splendor of the resort grounds. So put down that passport and don’t bother dialing your travel agent–your seaside getaway is a short drive away, at Terranea, Southern California‘s premier seaside resort.

When you first come to Terranea you may want to take note of the truly special and unique experience you’re about to have. Your feet are planted on an ancient island. The Palos Verdes Peninsula was once part of the Channel Islands, a sister to the island you see to the west, Catalina Island. The Resort sits on the former site of Marineland of the Pacific. Over 50 years ago, Marineland planted scores of trees as small as 3 1⁄2 inches. Forty-five of these now majestic, mature trees were boxed, preserved and now serve as an integral connection to Terranea’s sense of place and historical context. In addition, the location is a favorite Hollywood film site featured in films such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Charlie’s Angels, Fun with Dick and Jane, Aviator and Pearl Harbor.

The Resort’s dramatic setting with its south facing, panoramic 270-degree views of the Pacific, makes this one of the rare places where one can see the sun both rise and set over the ocean from a single vantage point. This can occur during the months of December and January when the sun is at its most southern location in the sky. Each evening at sunset, the end of the day is signified by the ringing of crystal singing bowls, an ancient ritual known for healing and relaxation through sound and vibration.

Resort Amenities

Guests arriving at Terranea will easily notice the outdoor grandeur and the indoor luxury. Spread across five stories to maximize seaward exposure, the 582-room resort offers accommodations ranging from individual guest rooms to a 1,800-square-foot Presidential Suite to more expansive arrangements, including multiroom villas, bungalows, and casitas.

The bungalows and casitas provide an additional option; they can be locked up in combinations to allow two or three rooms.

In each guest room, you’ll find a balcony where you can enjoy the fresh marine air, and the majority of the rooms look out toward the Pacific Ocean. Guest room amenities include modern details, such as flat-screen TVs, wireless high-speed Internet access, and multimedia desktop workstations, as well as a range of bathroom accessories with which to pamper yourself.

Things To Do

Once they’ve settled into Terranea, guests can fill their days with a multitude of activities. The spa is undoubtedly a prime destination. This contemporary space overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and inside, its 25 luxury rooms are available for facials, massages, hydrotherapy, and other treatments. Couples can book their own spaces, and you’ll find the full gamut of lounges, open to men only, women only, or for co-ed use. Three VIP suites are also options, decked out with top-of-the-line appointments, such as copper soaking tubs, couples tables, and Swiss showers, to name just a few. Inside the spa, guests can replenish themselves with crystal quartz footbaths, body wraps, aromatic massages, or a combination of treatments, all using natural, organic products. Spa treatments correspond to the body’s natural bio-rhythms. In the morning, treatments and programs energize and invigorate. In the afternoon, treatments are calming and restorative. Of course, you can also indulge in the usual full salon services, with a VIP area designated for weddings and special occasions.

If you’re seeking more rigorous activities, the full-service Fitness & Wellness Center at Terranea features Life Fitness cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. You’ll also find a movement studio and an outdoor yoga terrace in this generous 5,000-square-foot space, and swimmers can dive into the spa’s lap pool for their workout. At Terranea, there are few better ways to start the day than with a brisk hike on the resort trails, breathing in the salt air and getting in touch with the local flora and fauna.

Terranea is all about accessible luxury, and this is especially evident in the resort’s golf course. On this nine-hole, par 3 course, elevation changes, strategic elements, and artful bunkers will challenge new and experienced golfers alike. Depending on the setup, they can steal away a few hours for a satisfying round or dig into an 18-hole course. Golfers will also get a sense of place as the tee box on each hole faces a noted area landmark. Additionally, beginners can migrate to the practice area to perfect their strokes. Players can look forward to a rousing round of their favorite sport, no matter what their choice of venue or the final score of their game, and it’s all within spectacular sight of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island.

Dining Options

In this day and age, no world-class destination is complete without correspondingly high-caliber dining options, and Terranea is hardly an exception. Guests can indulge their cravings for comfort food or explore newer cuisines at Terranea‘s selection of eateries. At Terranea‘s signature spot mar’sel, Chef de Cuisine Michael Fiorelli utilizes local, seasonal ingredients–some of which come from the on-premises herb and produce gardens–to craft contemporary takes on California cuisine. The exquisite dishes, in tandem with the sweeping Pacific vistas, add up to a truly memorable dining experience.

Terranea provides diners with casual settings as well. Nelson’s restaurant and bar overlooks the coves made famous almost 50 years ago by the hit television series Sea Hunt, which featured Lloyd Bridges as the lead character Mike Nelson. Nelson’s pays tribute to Lloyd Bridges’ lifetime efforts to protect the environment and ocean with furnishings all made of recycled materials including a centerpiece bar countertop made completely from recycled wine bottles. The restaurant provides a modern twist, offering sophisticated but familiar pub fare in a funky, contemporary setting.

Another option for dining, Catalina Kitchen, pairs Mediterranean cuisine with California flavors for adults and kids, friends and family, from breakfast to dinner. Guests can also stop in for cocktails and appetizers, or any time they visit the adjoining pool. Even if you live in the water, you can still get fed at the Terranea Grill, which offers poolside service throughout the day.

It’s hard to stay hungry or thirsty at Terranea! Take your pick from an extensive wine and beer list at the Lobby Bar, Living Room & Terrace, or perk up with a shot of caffeine at sea beans. The Spa Café serves lighter fare, or if you’re out on the trails, grab a picker-upper at Cielo Point or Discovery Trail Refreshments.

Beautiful Surroundings and a Green Mission

Terranea, for all its modern amenities and luxuries, is built–almost literally–on a commitment to the environment. If you’ve ever visited Palos Verdes, you know the gorgeous surroundings hardly need improvement, and in many ways, Terranea pursues a policy of doing more with less. During Terranea‘s development, no land was removed from the area, and builders recycled 80 percent of the materials from pre-existing structures on the property to create the new resort. Terranea’s commitment to going green can even be seen in the employee uniforms which are made from eco-friendly fabrics to minimize dry-cleaning. One material chosen is made from recycled water bottles and has a tremendously soft feel.

Sustainable measures have been implemented to protect open space and nearby wildlife, as well as to manage the freshwater supply. Even such details as biodiversity have been taken into account, and of the 102 acres that comprise Terranea, approximately 75 acres qualify as green space. This dedication is most evident in the abundance of wildlife at Terranea, from the whales migrating just offshore to the El Segundo Blue Butterfly flitting through the resort to the seabirds dotting the sky. The annual whale migration takes place right off the coast of Terranea and the official count is conducted at the nearby Interpretive Center. Terranea guests can participate in the whale count through the Volunteer Program.

In addition, three telescopes along the scenic bluffs allow guests to enjoy the views of nature, while at the same time using the experience as a “teachable moment.” The telescopes are dedicated to environmental non-profit organizations to further their exemplary work via these informational efforts and donations. To learn more about the natural surroundings, interested guests can sign up for guided tour led by Terranea‘s on-site naturalist.

A Luxury Resort Just a Short Drive Away…

This is barely the tip of the iceberg at Terranea. The resort offers fun activities for kids, and it reserves certain areas for guests aged 18 and over. Terranea is available for private events, from weddings and parties to corporate meetings. Guests can choose between two large ballrooms, which can, in turn, be divided into smaller venues, depending on the client’s needs. Boardrooms and hospitality suites are available as well, and many of the meeting rooms share the same ocean side view enjoyed by guests staying in the resort’s elaborate suites, villas, and bungalows.

We all dream of luxurious vacations in exotic destinations, but it’s not always easy to make the time or to put aside the money for such excursions. However, at Terranea, it’s possible to get away without really going away. Located in Rancho Palos Verdes and a mere 30 minutes southwest of downtown Los Angeles, Terranea is its own world where nature and luxury coexist comfortably, and believe it or not, it’s just a short drive away.

Throw in an eco-conscious commitment, and you get a company custom-tailored to modern demands. This, and many other reasons, are why Earthflora.com is one of LA’s The Place Top Picks for 2010.

It’s a straightforward proposition. Whether you live in a studio apartment or a grand mansion, you can instantly perk up your personal environment with beautiful plants, trees and flowers. When you’re surrounded by beauty, your mood immediately lifts, and your outlook improves as well. In reality, however, this isn’t as easy as it sounds. Plants require care, and it’s easy to forget their needs for water, nutrients, and sunshine. Your body may not deal well with the allergens plants sometimes carry as well, and bacteria and chemicals in fertilizers can be serious, potential health risks.

Earthflora offers a solution in lifelike artificial plants—but these aren’t your parents’ plastic plants! Earthflora stocks a selection of authentic-looking faux botanicals, from individual flowers to hedges, topiaries, trees, mosses, and succulents.  These unique creations of nature look impressively real and could easily blend in among an outdoor backyard or front deck patio with other real plants and trees.

In addition, there is even more than one would expect at this online nature haven, including palm trees with a hammock and better-than-simply-plastic-looking purple grape clusters.

Earthflora carries a whole range of woodsy replicas, but it specializes in trees: palm trees, pine trees, ficus trees, Japanese mini maple trees, bamboo trees, olive trees, fig trees, and more. You’ll also find carefully preserved eucalyptus trees, their living essence transformed for perennial use and beauty. These trees are safe for both indoor and outdoor use, and they can be moved about freely, with minimal fuss, depending on your preferences.

Earthflora caters to interior decorators, professional and amateur alike. Need to stage a home? Earthflora’s goods can amp up the curb appeal–and, in turn, the property value–of any residence. Even better, the plants can be packed up in a car or a truck, brought to the destination, and amassed again at the end of the day, ready for their next deployment. Ready for indoor or outdoor use, Earthflora’s plants and flowers are versatile enough to accentuate any spot that needs some character.

Earthflora even has you covered for the holidays too, with specialized Halloween and Christmas decorations.

For Halloween, choose from Earthflora’s store of cats, scarecrows, and jack-o-lanterns. And the options shoot up at Christmastime, as Earthflora offers poinsettias, holly, garlands, fruits and berries, and of course Christmas trees, which may be it’s most popular item with plenty of options to choose from.

From pencil, slim, giant, colored, half-pine, flocked, natural touch, and full sized trees, to a selection of lighting options ranging from multi-colored lighted, worry free all lit, LED, clear, colored, or no lights at all, you’ll have no problem finding exactly the right Christmas tree for you and your home at Earthflora.com.

Some of the varieties include Douglas Fir, Balsam fir, Stone pine, Virginia pine, Wellington pine, Winchester pine, Nikko alpine, Flocked Carolina pine, Blue fir, Concolor fir, and pine cactus.

You’ll find seasonal topiaries, branches, and grasses, and ornaments. Earthflora can even set you up with a Christmas cactus, if that’s more your style. With all the extra stress of the holiday season, why not take advantage of having one less thing to worry about? Earthflora can help you celebrate the season in one easy step and in the style of your choosing.

After you take your pick of Earthflora’s floral wares, you can build on your environment with fountains, landscaping rocks—even birds! The goal is to create the most pleasing environment possible, and Earthflora has all the subtle touches you can ask for. The final selection is up to you.

Earthflora wants to help you with more than just cosmetic concerns; with Earthflora, you can do your part to save precious water resources and help the planet. Scientific studies by the well-respected Scripps Institution of Oceanography indicate there’s a 50% chance that water levels could drop so low by 2017 that the Hoover Dam will be incapable of producing hydroelectric power and by 2021, Lake Mead could run dry. Los Angeles and Las Vegas, as well as the majority of the American Southwest, would be in dire circumstances with the loss of these water sources. The agricultural industry, which feeds much of the nation, would be especially hard hit.

Earthflora offers an alternative to this destructive cycle. Earthflora’s artful selection of trees, grasses, flowers, and shrubs never need to be watered or repotted, nor do they require new soil. In short, they use up no natural resources. The precious materials that would normally go into the upkeep of comparable live plants are saved for more important uses, such as nourishing the crops that feed our fellow citizens.

Following the recent recession, you’ll be pleased to find an unexpected financial reward in choosing Earthflora’s green wares. As mentioned above, there’s little upkeep to these plants and trees, so you won’t have to worry about big water bills. Extra equipment or gardening supplies, such as pesticides or pots, are no concern either. Even Earthflora’s bigger items, such as trees and lawns, require no extra care; you can say good-bye to fertilizer, weed killers, and lawnmowers and enjoy a beautiful, flawless lawn.

Looking for a quick face-lift for your home, but without major construction or a months-long timetable? Try adding an Earthflora hanging plant or a flowering tree to spruce up a spare corner of your house. You’ll immediately notice what a shot of color can do to your surroundings.

Have you considered accessorizing with bonsai? Ancient Japanese cultures created bonsai plants specifically for small spaces, and Earthflora can provide you with a miniature arrangement that will complement your home’s layout. These elegant examples of sylvan art add a note of sophistication to any setting. In a similar vein, topiaries are a great way to add a personal touch to your environment. Though topiaries aren’t as petite as bonsai, they can bring interesting shapes to your living space. Earthflora can further customize your order and trim topiaries to take on your requested silhouette.

If you thought “going green” meant riding your bike to work and taking 2 minute showers, think again. Doing something good for the environment doesn’t have to be a sacrifice and it doesn’t mean you have to suffer. You can actually benefit from “going green” by enjoying aesthetically pleasing surroundings in your home or office thanks to Earthflora. From true-to-life-looking plants, trees, flowers, and everything in between EarthFlora is a perfect, practical solution that provides a way to enjoy the beauty of nature in life without the allergies, maintenance, or the environmental impact that accompanies it. Earthflora’s faux flora will maximize the cheer in any environment while minimizing the fuss. There’s no easier solution out there.

Earthflora.com was featured in our Earth Day article here…

You can contact EarthFlora toll free at (877) 252-1675 or check out Earthflora.com for additional information.

Kathy Ireland, who’s billion dollar empire includes Fabulous Florals, shares Do It Yourself design tips here on her website. Anything you need from custom designs to bulk flowers, Kathy is dedicated to bringing you the freshest, most high quality, gorgeous flowers that are available.  We spoke to Kathy Ireland and talked about her new company, Fabulous Florals here in LA’s The Place. www.FabulousFlorals.com

Nothing says it like jewelry. The jewelry collection from David Tishbi uses gorgeous, natural gemstones such as amethyst, topaz, garnet, diamond, pearl, moonstone, quartz and tourmaline to create such vibrant and colorful pieces..at amazing prices!

Being green-friendly, David Tishbi offers their jewelry boxes made from 100% recycled materials, and $1.00 per box and all proceeds from the boxes being donated to charity. These designs appeal to anyone and everyone and just some stars who showed interest include Gerard Butler and Khloe Karadashian-Odom. Your Mom will love you for this! Visit them at www.davidtishbi.com. Read our article on David Tishbi Jewelry here…

Panoramic Fine-Art Photographer Olivier Pojzman

Bring the beauty of Nature for Mom’s to enjoy indoors. Olivier Pojzman brings a beautiful panoramic perspective of landscapes and iconic Americana scenes with his amazing pieces of art. He was inspired in 2005 using a still camera as a motion picture camera capturing scenes which were like that of a movie sequence.

Olivier uses between 15-20 images and pieces them together to create his panoramic art. One of his favorite subjects to capture is California. He studied art and design in Paris and moved from France to the United States to pursue a successful career as a high-end photographer. Apple, Sony, British Petroleum, Skyy Vodka, Starbucks Coffee are some corporate clients he has served. He has also shot such high profile celebrities as Hillary Duff, Jeremy Piven, Paris Hilton, Michael Madsen, David Carradine, Yves Saint Laurent, Prince Albert of Monaco and Queen Latifah. IrisWork is his company that creates awesome artwork for rent, sale, leases and commissioned.

Your Mom deserves her own  beautiful view! You can choose a beautiful piece or have one custom-made by going to www.iriswork.com and www.olivierpojzmanphotogrpahy.com Read our full article on Iris Works and Olivier Pozjman here…

Preserved plants from Earthflora.com

Enhance the space in your Mom’s home with plants..but without the time and effort on her part to keep them up! Earthflora.com has the answer – preserved plants. Preserved plants are real plants that took years to grow. They were alive when the preservation process was started, but are no longer growing. During the preservation process, each harvested plant absorbs a special natural preservation solution and then the plants are placed in a special chamber that controls temperature, airflow and humidity to make the preservation complete. They do not require maintenance and most are mounted in foam or a plaster base. Soil and water are NOT needed! Preserved plants are very much in demand along with artificial indoor trees and plants. They can enhance any room décor as much as artificial indoor plants can do. www.Earthflora.com.

Read our full article on Earthflora here…

Pickled Tink Company

Jewelry that is sentimental always touches Moms hearts and now she can wear jewelry that is touching. Mothers and their daughters, sisters and friends can wear stunning letter and word charms that personalize their own stories

At Pickled Tink Company, each piece is handmade with a matte paper in a range of vibrant colors , then are carefully handcrafted into a beautiful polished silver setting.  Because each piece of jewelry is handmade, each piece is unique!

You can choose what words go on the charms (mom, love, mommy, grandma) or individual letters, so you can personalize your bracelets and necklaces with ‘initials’ or spell out a name, with up to eight  letters. Pickeled Tink provides silver chain bracelets and necklaces holding a combination of letters of the wearer’s choosing.

Prices start at  $36. A necklace with two charms is $52. Charm bracelets with 20 charms is $420. Individual charms and customized charm necklaces and bracelets can be ordered on-line at www.pickled-tink.com.

Activision’s Band Hero

Nothing means more to Moms than quality family time! But it has to be fun for the kids too! Enter Band Hero! Band Hero is an all-new music playing experience from the makers of Guitar Hero. Using the same concept as guitar hero, Band Hero adds a whole new experience adding a guitar, bass, drums and a microphone to play top 40 hits from a variety of music artists. Through the different gameplay modes such as “No-Fail”, “Sing-Along”, and “Party Play”, game players must work together to play through the entire song. Available in all platforms such as PS3, XBOX 360, PS2 and WII consoles, Band Hero offers some awesome tracks such as David Bowie’s “Lets Dance”, Devo’s “Whip It”, the Jackson 5’s “ABC”, and many more. Read our full  reveiw on Band Hero here…

Eco-Solutions’ Potty Park

Moms are busy people too! Sometimes she can’t get home in time to walk the dog, or just gets too busy with Mommy duties! Potty Park is a creation made to bring the outdoors indoors for your pet to do their  business and prevent a mess to Mom’s floor or carpet. Its pheromone-enhanced artificial surface ensures that your pet will know where to go when he or she has to go. This product is perfect for condos and apartments, new puppies, older or injured dogs, those who aren’t available to walk their dogs, those who love traveling and those who live in areas that prohibit dog walks. You can visit them at www.pottypark.com or www.wowcreationsmedia.com

Read our article on Potty Park here…

Eco Pet Solutions, Inc.

The concept behind “Potty Park“, the new creation from Eco Pet Solutions, Inc., is fairly simple. When your pet is unable to reach the outdoors, why not bring the outdoors to him?

With Potty Park, your four-legged friend will feel at ease inside – eliminating accidents on carpets and floors.

Potty Park is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Its inviting, pheromone-enhanced artificial surface will be sure to let your pet know where you’d like him to go.

Potty Park is perfect for:

- Condo or apartment residents
- New Puppies
- Older or injured dogs
- Those who aren’t available to walk their dogs
- Those who enjoy traveling with their dogs
- Those who live in areas that prohibit dog walks

With Potty Park, you won’t have to deal with unsightly pee pads or floor messes ever again!

For more information about Potty Park, visit www.PottyPark.com, or www.wowcreationsmedia.com.

LA’s the Place

Say Goodbye to Allergies this Christmas

Artificial plants are not only an art but could be lifesaver in reducing allergies.  Studies have shown that Christmas trees can produce mold that triggers seasonal allergies.  No more sniffling and sneezing when spring or the holiday season comes around because Earthflora can provide all your greenery needs without the annoying side effects of allergies. And with live Christmas trees more expensive than ever, a beautiful artificial Christmas tree will help with that Christmas budget year after year.

Gorgeous authentic-looking faux Christmas trees help preservee the environment!

Oh Christmas Tree!

Celebrate the holiday Christmas season in style with Earthflora’s luminous Christmas trees, wreaths & garlands! Earthflora offers ‘everlasting joy’ to your home or office. Their fine selection of holiday accents will welcome and warm your guests all season long. Earthflora offers artificial Christmas trees of all styles and sizes from frosted, flocked, white, purple, aqua, pink and many other creatively colored trees. For a Southwest themed holiday, try their Cactus Christmas tree! Too busy to decorate your tree? Don’t worry, their artificial pre-lit Christmas tree is perfect for celebrating Christmas festivities without the hassle of decorating it.

Preserved plants from Earthflora.com

Preserved “Once-Live” Plants

Even if you prefer real plants but don’t have the environment or the time to maintain them, Earthflora has the answer - preserved plants. Preserved plants are real plants that took years to grow. They were alive when the preservation process was started, but are no longer growing. During the preservation process, each harvested plant absorbs a special natural preservation solution and then the plants are placed in a special chamber that controls temperature, airflow and humidity to make the preservation complete. They do not require maintenance and most are mounted in foam or a plaster base. Soil and water are NOT needed! Preserved plants are very much in demand along with artificial indoor trees and plants. They can enhance any room décor as much as artificial indoor plants can do. Keep them indoors as they will fade and rot outside.

Price Guarantee

Earthflora will not be undersold. They will gladly honor any other offer on the internet. They offer discounts on volume orders and wholesale orders. Also, with your order of  $99 or more, shipping is free within the inland USA.

EarthFlora Speaks Up

LATP got a chance to catch up with Rossano Porcelli, CEO of Earthflora.com before the busy holiday season…

LA’s The Place: Besides Christmas trees, what are some of your top selling items?

Rossano Porcelli: Our custom made to order trees & palm trees are always a big favorite since they are made from natural wood and coconut palm trunk aloe for ultimate realism. Our preserved topiary and bonsai line is another; you can’t get closer to “real”. Our polyblend outdoor line is a huge year-round hit for hard-to-grow areas.

LATP:  Speaking of Christmas trees, what exotic colors can one order a Christmas tree in?

RP: We can create christmas trees from the following spectrum of following colors: Metallic Champagne, silver, Gold, Orange, Purple, Lavender, Light Pink, Cerise, Red, Teal, Green, Light Blue, Blue, Black, Purple/Black, Orange/Black. Or Choose from Metallic Silver/Chartreuse, Silver/ Clear irridescent, silver, Gold, Cerise, Red, Fucshia, Purple, Apple Green, Hunter Green, Aqua, Blue.

LATP: Have you seen an increase in your business due to customers becoming more ‘green’ and buying plants that don’t take our precious water resources?

RP: Yes, we have found a major increase especially in places in like Arizona and Las Vegas where the water resources must be reserved. In addition our products save customers time, worry and are a great solution for allergy sufferers sensitive to mold & pollens.

LATP: How long can one expect outdoor artificial grass or shrubbery to look vibrant?

RP: It really depends what part of the country you are located. Southern states with intense sunlight can expect a shorter lifespan up to 5 years before noticeable fading occurs and Northern states with less intense sunlight can last up to 10 years before noticeable fading occurs.

LATP: It says in your mission statement that you customize your plants to the needs of customer? Can you give an example of that?

RP:  We have customized trees using the many variety branches we sell to the height and width that the customer requests. We have made fall trees, flowering trees, exotic palm trees, Christmas ice trees, any tree you can think of in nature, if we carry the branch we can customize it to your specification up to 30 feet tall. We cater to both commercial & residential clients.

LATP: Anything else you’d like to add about Earthflora?

RP: We take pride in our business, our dedication is to design with our customer in mind. We are proud to bring our clients only the very finest faux botanicals available in the market. We understand their desire for only the very best for your home and office, that’s why we make every effort to carefully select the most authentic looking foliages as a reflection of nature. Virtually maintenance free, our faux accents are made to simplify lives. To accommodate the unique in every individual, we customize our trees, palm trees and topiaries upon request. We want to be apart of the Joy and celebration of every season in your home. We offer selections for each and every season. Please tell us how we can help your reinvent your living space to inspire a tradition that your family can share throughout the seasons.

Authentic, gorgeous faux palms from Earthflora.com

Need Green?

If you love the look of plants or greenery, EarthFlora has thousands of products for your every flora and fauna whim. Here are just a few of the fabulous products Earthflora offers: Artificial Palm Trees & Plants, Thatch Collection, Birds, Artificial Trees, Topiary & Bonsai, All Weather Artificial Outdoor Palms, Trees, Topiary, Plants & More Grasses, Grass Mats, Bark, Stone Ground cover, Artificial Flowering Plants & Stems Plastic Boxwood Hedges, Plastic Cactus & Succulent, Greenery Artificial Plants, Garlands, Vines & Table Top Home Accents, Artificial Christmas Trees, Wreaths, Seasonal, Artificial Fruit Vegetables, Corn Stalks, Theatrical Props, Canvas Palms & Plants, Peace of Mind Fountains, Preserved “Once Live ” Foliage, Silk Plant Cleaner & Moss planter toppers, Palm, Tree & Twig Branches, Urns & Planters, and Halloween Decorations.

Unleash your inner landscaper and start ‘sprucing’ up your life and home by visiting their website: www.earthflora.com or call them Toll Free (877)252-1675 or Local & International Calls (440)899-4947. Or if you’re in Cleveland, they have two showrooms for you to shop at:  Christmas and their regular tree lines.

You can add a gorgeous lush hedge anywhere in an instant, no muss, no fuss!

Read our latest editorial on Earthflora.com here…

What It Is

A Very Special Heart is an accessory that can be carried as a necklace, purse clip, or keychain. Also available is the stylish A Very Special Globe, a globe keychain proven to withstand any bumps or bruises it encounters over time. It will go everywhere you go and so will your Personal Health Records.

Designed with a USB memory stick inside, the Very Special Heart and Globe, allows any EMT or ER Doctor to access all of your information so that they can act accordingly. Sometimes treatment is delayed because doctors have to search for information, but this little accessorizing gadget, everything is right and there and could possibly be what the doctor needs to save your life.

The heart and globe are preloaded with software that will take you step-by-step through the process of loading your documents onto the memory stick.

Along with the heart or globe, you receive a wallet ID card so when emergency teams are scouring your purse for identification, they will find the card and know all of your information as soon as they plug the USB, hidden in your heart or globe, into a computer.

How A Very Special Heart Can Help

In case of an emergency, A Very Special Heart gives doctors immediate access to the medical information they need. You can carry a small dose of medication in a little compartment in the top half of the heart or globe.

There are some cases where taking a dose of medication in an emergency situation can prevent a far worse situation from happening. Research has shown that chewing Aspirin at the first sign of a heart attack may reduce heart damage and even prevent death. Carrying aspirin in your own Very Special Heart could save your life.

You can install all of your health records onto your heart or globe and carry vital information everywhere. Doctors will need to know your identity so store a picture and your name. Inform them of all medications you are taking including over the counter supplements. Allergies whether food, drug, or environment related are also helpful and so are medical conditions such as asthma, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Vaccination records and records of any medical devices or implants like joint replacements, pacemakers, or shunts are important information as well. Store contact information for your doctor or family members, if you have a living will or power of attorney, and of course, your insurance information.

A Very Special Heart or Globe can hold important documents, both public and private. Install back-ups of you and your family’s medical release and consent forms, organ donor and DNR information, X-Rays, and MRIs. The private documents you load onto your USB stick, are password protected so feel safe about having copies of passports, visas, driver’s license, advance directives, credit card information, and more.

Who Needs A Very Special Heart

No matter how healthy you believe your family and children are today, tomorrow is a different day. Your kids may have special needs so assist doctors with the right information. How many times have you been asked to provide your child’s medical records for school, a sports team, or something else? A Very Special Heart or Globe will give you quick access to the information you need.

This cute and handy accessory can be given to a babysitter or caregiver watching over young or old so that they are prepared in case something unfortunate happens. On a lighter note, when you are headed out for doctor appointments and in need of records from recent visits, prescriptions, or surgeries, you can just print out a copy of your personal health record saved on your heart or globe. This ensures that nothing is confused between you and your doctor.

For people with chronic medical conditions, such as Alzheimer’s, Epilepsy, Diabetes, Asthma, and others a heart or globe is important.

In times of disaster due to earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, or others, documents can become damaged or lost unless you have them stored in your heart or globe.

Very Special and Helpful

Not only can you store important information, but you can also change the language it is stored in when you travel to another country. Something could happen on your vacation in Mexico, Italy, or Rome so save your documents so that the doctors there can help you.

Basic information, like your name or simple medical information is always available to anyone who plugs you heart or globe into a computer. Your ,more personal documents like passports or birth certificates are password protected and encrypted so that not everyone can access them.

A Very Special Heart

Simply supplying its consumers with a way to access records so that they can better care for their health, A Very Special Heart wants to help people when facing emergency and day-to-day medical situations.

For more, visit www.averyspecialheart.com

Faux Fur and Color

Oobees believes in keeping the animals warm so these slippers are made from custom designed faux fur. Made of the softest fabrics and materials, Oobees allow wearers to experience what their creators call “pure foot pleasure.” The rubber sole, soft inside, and ultra cushy foam insole forms to your foot so that you enjoy the comfort your foot desires.

The stylish colors will catch everyone’s eyes when you step out in Amber’s Animal Instinct, combining leopard and hot pink, Taylor’s Go Go Girl mixing purple paisley and purple, G.I. Jordynn’s camouflage on pink, or one of the other available colorful creations.

All Oobees, for the young and old, are available in the three previously mentioned patterns plus: Makenna’s Pretty in Pink, Samantha’s Back in Black, Mandy’s Surfin Stripes, and Sadie’s Hubba Hubba Bubblegum for the price of $29.95.

Accessories

The flexibility and comfort of Oobees will have you wearing them everywhere you go so accessorize them with a matching overnight bag, cosmetic bag, pillow, or blanket.

Not only can you store your pajama party essentials in one of the over-sized overnight bags, but you can carry your clothes to dance or sports practice or carry your books to school. It could even be turned into a fun diaper bag.

Organize your make-up and toiletries in a matching cosmetic bag to make your travels easier or to take to your slumber party. And to ensure you stay fashionable, throw in a pillow or blanket to top it all off.

Both the overnight and cosmetic bag can be found in all the same colors as the Oobees minus Samantha’s Back in Black. The overnight bag is available for $29.95 and the cosmetic bag is $14.95.

The pillows and blanket are available in all colors except for Samantha’s Back in Black and Sadie’s Hubba Hubba Bubblegum. The pillow is available for $14.95 and the blanket for $29.95.

Oobees

Rachel Humphrey, an experienced and successful entrepreneur and business owner, first came up with the idea for Oobees while watch her daughter.  Her daughter put duct tape on the bottom of her slippers so that she could wear them outside too. Knowing that duct tape would only take her so far, Rachel and her Oobees team developed the Oobee slipper to withstand any surface for everyone to enjoy.

For more information on products and store locations, please visit their website: www.oobees.com

Sets include: plush pet, couture “pet-carrier” purse, leash, collar, fuzzy blanket for afternoon naps, the latest edition of Pawparazzi Magazine, mini note pad with a dazzling hologram cover (perfect for passing notes and getting autographs!), and a pop-out trading card on the back of the box!

Pawparazzi Fan Club

Pawparazzi recently got a makeover and their new packaging is all the rage on the red carpet!  Kids can visit www.pawparazzi.com to meet the pets, play games, view and upload pictures to our “Caught On Camera” photo galleries, and join the Pawparazzi Fan Club for exclusive access to promotions, newsletters and information on everything Pawparazzi – all for FREE!  Coming soon…Planet Pawparazzi, a place where kids are entertained by their favorite pets, travel in a virtual world, and play and learn at Pawparazzi University!

Celebrity Pet Dress Up Sets

Because Pawparazzi® Pets have a nose for style, whatever they’re wearing is what’s PAWpular in fashion!  Pawparazzi Celebrity Pet Dress Up Sets are high-quality, detailed, show-stopping fashions that allow young girls to expand their Pawparazzi play experience by dressing their celebrity pets for adventures, experiences and appearances around the globe!  Girls will gasp when they see this tiny, tail-wagging collection of stylish clothing and glamorous accessories.  Choose from four collectible sets; Flower Fairy, Dream Birthday, Winter Holiday, and Day at the Spa.  It’s high-profile style for little pets living big lives!

Awards for Pawparazzi Pets

PTPA Media 2009 Best Product (www.ptpamedia.com)
Creative Child Magazine 2009 Seal of Excellence
Mom’s Best 2008 Award Winner (www.momsbestaward.com)
TD Monthly Magazine 2008 Top Toy Award (www.tdmonthly.com)

Travel Buddies

Bag Buddies & Travel Buddies Dog.

It’s the perfect gift for your jet-setter little one. Travel Buddies children’s neck pillows in the form of a pig, alligator, or dog comfortably support sleepy heads on planes, trains and automobiles and are perfect for naptime on the go!   Travel time is a lot more enjoyable for little ones with these irresistibly soft and cuddly travel companions.  They are adorable, fun and practical and are a great way to stimulate tactile learning…kids will take them everywhere and won’t leave them behind!  Machine Washable and Hypoallergenic, Age: 18mos. +

Awards for Travel Buddies

Dr. Toy – Best Vacation Products
Creative Child Magazine – Seal of Excellence

Bag Buddies

Bag Buddies luggage tags let kids personalize any bag, backpack or stroller for playful fun on the run!  A sturdy Velcro strap keeps this little travel companion securely fastened and a name tag is located on the belly of each animal.  Great for keeping track of children’s suitcases.  Bag buddies matchtheir Travel Buddies and make a perfect travel pair! Machine Washable and Hypoallergenic, Age: 18mos. +

To surely give your child long-lasting delight this holiday season with a Pawparazzi, Travel Buddy or Bag Buddy – visit www.pawparazzi.com for the Pawparazzi Pets and www.noodleheadfun.com for Travel and Bag Buddies.

Fatboy has burst onto the scene by redesigning retro with their modern take on lounge furniture and beanbag chairs. Orginating from the Netherlands, Fatboy is penetrating the US market through the steady leadership of USA Fatboy president Paula Masters with a bold expansion of Fatboy’s hot new home, accessory, and fashion products.

Whether it is beanbags, hammocks, chairs, or bags, they convey the signature quality found in all Fatboy products; an innate expression of personality. In balancing design inspiration with product sophistication, these hip yet functional items are known for their playful designs and expressive colors.

Fatboy Furniture

It all began with a beanbag. Finland’s Jukka Setala designed the original Fatboy in 1998 as a modern version of the beanbag. The Fatboy original beanbag is made from either a nylon or polyester fabric and has a PVC coating to make them water resistant, stain resistant and easy to clean.

Paula Masters with Mark Hapka from Days of our Lives.

Though Fatboy began by sitting in a beanbag, it has been off and running ever since, now selling in every continent and over 80 countries. Their products have been featured on reality shows The Real World and Big Brother. Fatboy has also created customized lounge bags for leading companies like Bacardi, T-Mobile, Coca Cola and Sony Playstation.

The Power of Choice

Fatboy offers a great amount of diversity in its product lines, allowing customers an unusual level of choice in their selection. The original Fatboy beanbag is available in fifteen colors, ranging from bold and bright colors like pink, red, and cobalt to saturated neutrals like white and sand. Moreover, Fatboy has expanded on the original by offering many alternatives, including chairs, hammocks and outdoor furniture. The company is also paw-friendly with their doggielounge and catbag. All of the models are supported with a wide range of color options.

Fatboy Bags

Fatboy’s introduction of Dutch design bags stays true to their diversity in choice by offering 8 bags available in a variety of colors; orange, pink, black, red, turquoise, green, blue, camouflage, and metallic soulbags in silver, bronze and titan. Fatboy teamed with Dutch design studio DeMakersVan to create the look for the new line of functional, iconic fashion products. Environmentally friendly coatings and strong materials were joined by elements from the aviation and extreme sports industry, including parachute buckles, seatbelts, scuba diving zippers and the use of noiseless Velcro.

Moving Forward

For years Fatboy’s furniture, with expressive color palette and dynamic designs have breathed life into any interior. Now, the company is capitalizing on its home decor success by bringing their playful sensibility to new creations. In addition to the new line of technology friendly bags, Fatboy recently released a Fatboy flowerpowersol, an overgrown parasol with a sunny and iconic Scandinavian flower print. Fatboy also introduced Fatboy Edison the Grand, an oversized modern day lamp that spreads a serene glow within any interior. With the growth of Fatboy’s US operations and the expansion into new product markets, the company may have to wait a while before relaxing in one of their own creations. www.FatboyUSA.com

Paula Masters

At the helm of Fatboy USA is president Paula Masters. The Oklahoma native’s imprint on the growth of Fatboy USA is clear as Masters has taken the point in building key licensing partnerships and sponsorships with mega brands including coordinating tradeshows, promotions and high profile events nationwide to enhance the Fatboy brand. When Fatboy launched their first official US headquarters in the fall of 2007, Masters was instrumental in making it happen.

Masters is a University of Oklahoma graduate with a bachelor’s in Business Administration and currently resides in Southlake, Texas. As if running Fatboy USA operations wasn’t enough, she also runs her own business. As Co-Founder and President of 1in3Trinity, a faith-inspired lifestyle brand, Masters has partnered with various groups and business organizations to create awareness for worthy causes that focus on improving the lives of others. Check out Paula at the 2009 MTV Secret Room Gifting suites with Fatboy…

Nespresso was here in Los Angeles to launch the new line at Sur La Table, which is now carrying the CitiZ line. Gail Simmons of Food & Wine and Top Chef hosted the celebration, and celebrity chefs Nancy Silverton and Dahlia Narvaez of Mozza, David Myers of Sona and Comme Ca, Jorge Chicas of The Bazaar and Jon Shook, Vinny Dotolo of Animal and teen Chef Greg Grossman provided Nespresso-infused treats throughout the evening.

Unprecedented Functionality

Minimalist and sleek in design, Nespresso’s ambitious release includes a total of three machines that are distinctly designed to serve the specific needs of a user. Nespresso CitiZ is a single automatic espresso machine, Nespresso CitiZ&Milk adds to the espresso machine with a built-in fresh milk frother for cappuccinos and lattes and Nespresso CitiZ&Co brews new ground as the first machine that allows users to make two coffees simultaneously. The common denominator among CitiZ machines is their ability to effortlessly fit in even the smallest of home interiors, accentuating rather than overwhelming the existing décor.

The Look

Nespresso CitiZ machines capture the ambience and energy of an urban lifestyle while filtering out the parts of city life that intrude upon our tranquillity. Gone are the honking horns, ringing cell phones and loud conversations. What remains are the pulsating beats of urban life, achieved through designs influenced by the landscaping and architecture in iconic cities like London, New York and Chicago.

With vivid, shiny metals contrasting against bright, striking colors, renowned Industrial Designer Antoine Cahen and the Nespresso design team evoke the rugged brilliance of urban existence in Nespresso CitiZ machines, representing the strength, toughness and grittiness of the city.

Nespresso CitiZ is available in the high-tech style in steel grey and fire engine red by Krups and modern retro style of retro white and limousine black by Magimix. The CitiZ&Milk machines come in fire engine red by Krups and limousine black by Magimix while the colors in CitiZ&Co machines are steel grey by Krups and limousine black by Magimix.

Quality Held in the Highest Regard

When it comes to food and drink, dining in is the new dining out. Nespresso embodies this trend with an artisan-like devotion to realizing the highest quality in espresso. While urban life can be chaotic, there’s a consistency in Nespresso coffee that’s achieved in every pour. Nespresso promotes this consistency by sourcing the highest quality of coffee from across the world and adhering to a strict production and storage process. Their award-winning machine design (with the 19-bar high pressure pump of each CitiZ machine) guarantees the release of all the rich flavours and subtle aromas of each of the 16 Nespresso Grands Crus, produced at the optimum drinking temperature. From cappuccinos to espressos, Nespresso’s methodology and machine specifications provide a great cup of coffee for casual drinkers and aficionados alike.

Commitment to Sustainability

Nespresso employs sustainability practices so that farmers can operate in a way that is productive to them as well as their land. Nespresso partnered with Rain Forest Alliance in 2003 to launch the AAA Sustainable Quality Program. It guarantees small farmers a higher compensation than market price and offers training and support for producing sustainable beans of exceptional quality while remaining environmentally responsible.

Nespresso, the Company

Nespresso’s premium-portioned espresso is available to coffee drinkers in the comfort of their own homes as well as gourmet restaurants, high-end hotels, luxury outlets and offices. Nespresso is known in the industry for complementing the use of the world’s highest-quality coffees with the production of efficient and stylish espresso machines for home and office use.

Based in Switzerland, Nespresso’s operations are supported by more than 2,500 employees and an exemplary customer service experience. Nespresso sells products in more than 50 countries directly to its customers. As of 2007, the company operates in more than 117 boutiques around the world.

A Division of Nestlé

Nespresso is a division of Nestlé and is one of its “billionaire brands”. In consecutive years Nespresso was named the fastest growing company within the Nestlé Group, having achieved a growth rate of more than 40 percent in 2007. For more information, visit www.Nespresso.com.

To try delicious Nespresso CitiZ’s espresso for yourself, stop by the pop-up tent at the Santa Monica Sur La Table for free coffee and demos athrough August 16th, Monday through Saturday, 10 am to 9 pm, and Sunday 11 am to 7 pm.

Sur La Table
301 Wilshire Boulevard
Santa Monica, California 90401 (map)
(310) 395-0390

Stay tuned for LAsThePlace.com Product Showcase!