November 14th, 2011
Last March I was walking up and down Atlantic Avenue when a store caught my eye. I had not seen it before so I decided to stop and that’s how I met Michele Ramirez, the proprietor of Varietai. You will find Varietai at 812 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-455-2767. Website? www.varietai.com. Find Varietai Delray on Facebook.
Since I started my blog, I have, definitely, met a lot of people. Most of them have been so charming and friendly. But, others, stand out. Michele is one of them. We just hit it off. A friendship is developing; so nice to see her again.
It is almost a year since she opened Varietai. She has a following. But, Michele is not new to this business. Years ago she had a store in Delray called Durango’s Attic. You might have even met her then.
If you have not stop by Varietai, please do so. The shop is full of beautiful items; some are fine consignments. Others, are quirky; many have their own sophistication.
       
I guess is that time of the year to jazz the home. Varietai is full of color, exactly what you would have expected in South Florida.
Michele is also an artist. She loves to paint. Check the floor of the store. All painted by her. The theme? The Japanese Koi.
Ask any questions you want. Michele has an eye for color and design and pays great attention to details. Her shop really is one of those must stop shops in Delray.
Varietai offers jewelry from Bali; wonderful colors and very unique, as well.
 
Deliveries? On week-ends…talk to you later…By the way, Michele; my friend loved his housewarming gift. Thanks for your help!!
November 11th, 2011
I kept looking for information on needlepoint; what I should have been looking for was “needlework”, which is the generalized term when one does not know what she or he is talking about. Needlepoint refers to a particular set of stitching techniques worked upon stiff openwork canvases. What I did not know was that there are different types of canvases; Mono, Penelope, Interlock, Rug and Plastic.
I have friends whose hobbies include needlework. I see them working so hard but then just a little patch is accomplished. It seems like it takes a long time to finish a “work of art”. I also notice that they seem to be so relaxed. Some take it to the beach; others work on it while they are watching t.v., or when they are traveling.
A gift given by someone that has spent so much time is really cherished. One time my husband received a belt made specially for him and to this day he still loves it.
So, when I saw the new stitching company on Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach I decided to stop. I am stopping for all those friends that love this hobby. Or, for the ones that are visiting and would like to take something home. Or, even for the ones like me that might want to try something new and outside the comfort zone.
Stitches by the Sea, Inc. is located at 710 East Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33483. Tel. 561-865-5775 Fax: 561-865-5959 e-mail: judi@stitchesbythesea.us. Judi Alweil is the proprietor of this shop.
I think you will feel like you have hit the jackpot when entering Stitches by the Sea. The first thing you will notice is how friendly Judi is. Judi is a consummate professional. She has been in the business for so many years in New York. She is now making South Florida her home. Even though she opened this new shop just a few weeks ago, she still has a wholesale business in New York, called Judi & Co. You can visit www.judiandco.com. This is a needlepoint and design company.
Judi and I talked and talked. I told her that I would not be offended in the least if she wanted to correct me when my post was published. Or, if she wanted to add something to what I said.
I noticed all the canvases she has throughout the stores. Some are from her own company, Judi & Co. and others are by different artists and designers.
Canvases may be stitch-painted, meaning each thread intersection is painted in such a way that the stitcher has no doubt about what color is meant to be used at that “intersection”.
 
Wool, silk, cotton or combinations like wool-silk blends are the threads used for stitching. Other fabrics can also be used like metallic cords, metallic braids, ribbons and raffia. Stitches by the Sea has an extensive collection of all of them. Since Judi has been in the business for such a long time, she has her contacts and she can get anything you might need, that is not at the store, in a short period of time.
I noticed the Long Legged Lady; stitched separately and then put together. She was so cute.
She also has a collection of needlepoint bags. She can give you the guidance you might need; start to finish.
There are also bags that can be custom designed for you. After you finish you needlepoint the bag can be made just for you, as well.
Classes will be held in December and January. Please call Judi at 561-865-5775 for more info.
In one of those classes you will be able to knit a bag like this one (sort of), which is made with raffia.
Oh, I almost forgot….Judi told me that her Judi & Co. was featured in Oprah and also on Terry Trucco’s NY Times column. Being acknowledged in such a way was great… a boost to her business.
Judi has also written a book called Ribbon Knits, Designs to Knit and Crochet. You can get it through her wholesale company or on Amazon.
Judi mentioned that her customers are happy and satisfied with her company. That the “business” is a friendly business and they all pretty much know each other. Refreshing, don’t you think?
If you are in Delray, just stop by…the shop is on Atlantic Ave. near the Intracoastal….besides Judi you might also meet Dick, her husband, that at times is there to help. The shop is closed Sundays and Mondays, otherwise, Tuesdays through Saturdays they are there from 10:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Have a good one!!…talk to you later…you know I will.
November 9th, 2011
Among the shops that line up Main Street in the historic town of Berlin, Maryland you will find a new shop called NEST. This shop is only new to the Main Street area but NEST has now been in business for some time. Change of location but same concept.
NEST is located at 11 South Main St., Berlin, Maryland, 21811. The location is right across the street from the new Chamber of Commerce. Tel. 410-629-1030. E-mail nest.berlin@gmail.com. It opens Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Sundays from 12 Noon until 4 p.m.
Just like all the other shopkeepers that abound in Berlin, Dee, welcomes you with a nice smile. Throughout the shop you will find niches of vintage treasures, local art, housewares, home accents, and decorative items.
There is a lot to take in, so make sure you take your time in strolling through her shop. Dee is more than willing to inform you where each piece has come from in detail, whether it is an antique or a work of art.
NEST is a definitely an eclectic store; you can find surprises in every corner.
 
Dee is also known for her artistic talents. I saw that in the store already some of her Old World Santas have made an appearance. These santas are handsculpted by Dee. She uses dry clay; the faces are painted in acrylic. They are collectibles and very much sought after. Vintage fabrics are utilized for their clothing, as well. Call the store for more information or if you would like to place an order.
 
Dee is a seamstress, as well. She makes colorful aprons with contrasting fabrics that are really cute. Custom bags are on display at NEST, as well. They have great fabric color combinations and textures; the patterns and colors changing with the seasons.
As I was chatting away, earrings caught my eye. Vey cute and made by Lex.
This is the perfect time of the year to stroll through Berlin. There is something about it….yes, it is pretty!!
Have a great day!!
October 11th, 2011
I don’t know what’s the sequence, regarding the heading of this post. Probably depends with Alice’s mood and the time of the year.
Alice H. Klein is the artist and designer behind TKO, along with her husband, Bryant and now her niece, JoAnne.
TKO is located at 100 Garfield Pkwy., #6 in the town of Bethany Beach, Delaware. Tel. 302-539-6992. Website? www.alicehklein-tko.com.
I have written about this store on 9/3/09 and on 10/25/10. You can check those posts by clicking on the months of September and October and scrolling down to the dates.
You can always find something at TKO. Her designs are beautiful and target a wide range of prices. It could be something for a friend or something more dramatic for yourself.
 
Alice can design anything you want or she can also update a special piece.
I was at the point in Cape Henlopen State Park last week. I always take visitors to that side of the park. You can see the town of Lewes and the Ferry on one side and on a clear day you can see New Jersey on the other.
It was windy and so many kiteboarders. I heard my name being called. It was Alice. She and all these other kiteboarders were having a blast. Actually, she might have been the only woman too. You see she has her passions; designing unique, never boring, pieces of jewelry or doing the extreme; kiteboarding.
This week I went to her store in Bethany. She opens Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
She has so many new pieces. Ones that I fell in love with were the earrings made out of shells she picked up in Puerto Rico. Here they are.
The rest is just a little peak into her designs. The pictures don’t do justice; you need to visit and have her explain to you the types of pearls, the stones, the metals, etc. etc.
 
 
 
Have a great day!!!…talk to you later…after I digest the subs from Casapullas; my next post….
October 9th, 2011
I was thinking that I know that it is October, but at the Delaware Beaches, it feels like July. All those smells that remind me of the beach and why I love to live here were there when I stepped out of the car; French fries, pizza, barbecue….it has been a gorgeous week-end; so crowded as visitors take advantage of warm days…yes, sitting on the beach and cooler evenings.
So many happenings in town, sidewalk sales, fundraising events, arts and entertainment.
This week I decided to visit J. Conn Scott in fashionable and trendy Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth. The actual address is 27 Baltimore Ave. Tel. 302-227 3780. Website? http://www.jconnscott.com.
Last year I wrote a post on its Main Showroom located at 6 East Church St. in Selbyville, DE 19975. Tel. 302-436-8205.
A lot of times when you hear about “showhouses” you probably think that it is a conglomerate of designers united for a cause, annually. That is probably true in most cases. But, at J. Conn Scott you will find a Showhouse that changes weekly. It is the work of talented designers changing the look and feel of this vintage beach house.
Because this location was an actual house, as you enter you feel right at home. It is the perfect place to get inspiration, checking out innovative designs, maybe an idea here or there. Full service design services are offered. And, Richard will be the first to tell you that everything is for sale.
A couple of new things have been added to J. Conn Scott; jewelry. The line? Catherine Canino Jewelry. The jewelry is handcrafted in New York City; sterling, brass, leather, exotic woods, fresh water pearls and hand carved lacquered mother of pearl. Lisa told me that it has been very well received. It is traditional and classic with a slight edge to it.
  
They have also introduced several lines of handbags which you will see throghout the Showhouse.
  
Vagabond House is new at the store. Tableware and gifts; handcrafted pewter that does not tarnish, rust or even affect the taste of food. Dishwasher safe, as well.
Lilly Pulitzer is another line that is represented at the Showhouse. For many years making a statement in designer clothing. A new line of furniture and accessories came out into the market and it is doing tremendously well.
 
There is so much to see and appreciate. Check out the “bedroom”.
   
 
I am having fun writing this post because I feel like I am “window” shopping.
We live on the beach. Of course, we have to have some of the “shell” collection on the floor. A must at the beaches.
 
 
 
Moving to the nautical room, this is what you will find.
 
If you are visiting the Delaware Beaches and see something that you might like from J. Conn Scott, please be informed that they do deliver. Customer service is one of their big strengths. Once you become their customer they want you to remain a friend.
On my visit to the store I first talked to Richard and Lisa. Later on, when I actually came to take the pictures and see what changes Richard had made in the individual rooms, I then met Jeanne. Thanks Jeanne for taking care of me.
The Showhouse has so many nice gifts, whether for housewarming, wedding or just for yourself.
     
If you stop on Tuesdays, I believe, that’s where you will see Richard changing the look and feel of the Showhouse. Here are my last pictures. I hope something caught your eye.
J. Conn Scott opens 7 days a week, so just stop by and introduce yourselves.
Remember that all those sidewalk sales are still going strong in Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach and Rt. 1 outlets. Enjoy the super weather we are having……talk to you later.
October 6th, 2011
It is one of those autumn days when the sun is shining, the humidity is low, not a cloud in the sky….Rehoboth Beach looks gorgeous and ready for what looks like a full week-end ahead.
If you happen to see a lot of Greyhounds walking in groups is because they are also here at the beaches. Most of them are staying in Dewey Beach celebrating Greyhounds Reach the Beach.
Thursday, 10/6 – Sunday, 10/9 – Broadway at the Beach with Broadway Rythms presented by Clear Space Theatre Co. located on 20 Baltimore Avenue in Rehoboth Beach. For more info., please call 302-227-2270 or visit www.clearspacetheatre.org.
Thursday through Saturday’s peformance will be at 7 p.m. Sunday the performance will be at 3 p.m. Please remember that this is the last week-end for Broadway Rythms.
Also, if you notice that the sidewalks are full of merchandise is because Friday through Sunday marks the 35th Annual Fall Sidewalk Sale. Pretty much the stores from Rehoboth Beach, Dewey and along Rt. 1 will be having great finds at great prices. They should open from 10 – 8 p.m. but that can vary depending on the shop. If you have questions, please call the Chamber at 302-227-6446.
Friday, 10/7 – Guided Museum Tour of the Anna Hazzard Tent House, starting at 9 a.m. It was built in 1895 for use as housing during religious camp meetings. It is located at 17 Christian St. Originally, it was on Baltimore Ave. and then moved to this location in 1975.
You can then drive to the Rehoboth Museum at 511 Rehoboth Ave where you can see the two exhibits presently on display: “Rehoboth Speaks: The Story Nation’s Summer Capital”, and “Skimming the Surface: Surfing, Skimboarding and Floating Off the Delmarva Coast”.
Friday, 10/7 – Sunday 10/9 – It is the 49th Annual Rehoboth Christmas Shop at the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center, located at 229 Rehoboth Ave. It is sponsored by the Episcopal Church Women of All Saint’s Church and St. George’s Chapel. Plenty of vendors and lunch will be available.
Friday and Saturday from 10 – 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 until 4 p.m.
Admission $1.00. More info? Please call 302-227-7202. Or, visit www.allsaintsrehoboth.org.
Friday, 10/7 and Saturday 10/8 – Buddy Fest & Buddy Walk to benefit the National Down Syndrome Society. To register or donate, please visit www.boardwalkbuddywalk.com.
Friday, 10/7 – The festivities will start with Buddy Up Party from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Dewey Beach Lions Club Community Center at 115 McKinley St & the Bay in Dewey Beach. Plenty of food and entertainment. Fabulous Silent Auction. Tips at the cash bar will be donated to the cause. Free soft drinks for kids. Free walker registration available at the party.
Saturday, 10/8 – Buddy Walk – 9 a.m.at the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk & Bandstand. Be a Buddy and walk with them. Pre-register to be guaranteed a Free event t-shirt.
10 a.m. to Noon – Buddy Blast at the Bandstand. Free activities for the whole family. Music and entertainment by Mario Rocco.
Noon to 6 p.m. – Buddy Day at the Beach – The merchants of Rehoboth Beach will hae their welcome mats outs. Wear your Buddy Walk t-shirt to receive special attention, surprises and discounts at participating eateries and stores.
5:30 to 8 p.m. – Buddy Fiesta at Mariachi’s Restaurant located at 14 Wilmington Ave. It will be a Fiesta atmosphere with live music and lots of prizes. Mariachi’s will donate 15% of proceeds to BWBW. For reservations, please call 302-227-0115.
Saturday, 10/8 – It is Discount Doggie and Cat Vaccination Day and Micro-Chipping by a licensed veterinarian at Doggies at the Beach, located at 18806 John J. Williams Highway (Rt. 24), Rehoboth Beach. Tel. 302-644-8200. Website? http://www.doggiesatthebeach.com.
First come first served from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m.
Single vaccinations:
Rabies $20, Distemper $22, Bordatella (Kennel Cough) required for day care $ 20, and Lyme $25.
Rabies, Distemper and Bordatella Package: $60 (3 year package) and $50 (1 year package).
Micro-Chipping $25.
No appointment is necesssary. All proceeds will benefit non-profit spay and neuter groups.
Have a great week-end….talk to you later…
September 25th, 2011
And, why am I writing a post on South Florida when it is still warm here at the Delaware Beaches? Because it will be only a matter of weeks when those cool breezes will start telling us that winter is on its way. I, for one, am waiting for those cool breezes. There is something about this time of the year when the scenery completely changes. I love it.
Some are probably thinking about going south already. The last time I was in Florida was in July. I go to Florida any time during the year. You have to admit that at times, during this past summer, it was cooler in Florida than at the Delaware Beaches.
With friends, and about to go out to dinner, we decided to take a stroll through Mizner Park. This cluster of restaurants, shops, entertainment and residences are located in Boca Raton. South of Delray Beach. An easy drive and only a few minutes to get there.
During the winter it can get pretty crowded but on their Second Season it is a very relaxing place to visit.
They also have an amphitheater, wich is an outdoor venue. If you would like to check their schedule, please visit http://www.mizneramphitheater.com.
One event that caught my attention was the 2011 Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, which will be on Saturday, October 22nd. You can find that info. on the above mentioned website.
One store that I tend to visit every time I find myself at Mizner Park is Sloan’s. It is an ice cream store, but it is the cutest shop. Very whimsical. Besides ice cream the also have candies galore and small gifts. They are located at 329 Plaza Real.
I thought this store was new this year. It was called The Spice & Tea Exchange. They sell spices, gourmet teas, seasonings, blends and rubs. their location was 426 Plaza Real. Website? www.spiceandtea.com.
They also sell accessories like salt and pepper mills, spice racks, grinders, mortar and pestles, tea pots and infusers.
The next shop was Z Gallerie. Their merchandise is directed for homes. You will find artwork, furniture, lighting, table top items, and plenty of accessories and unique pick up gifts.
The website? www.zgallerie.com.
You will find so many more shops at Mizner Park; we only had time to visit those mentioned.
Anyway, hope you visit them if you are in South Florida.
Have a good one!! Talk to you later….
September 20th, 2011
I cannot believe that I still have a couple of posts from my trip to Baltimore, where I discovered so many interesting places to visit and to dine.
One of them, which I really liked was a very unique glassblowing studio called Corradetti. It is located at 2010 Clipper Park Rd., Suite 119, Baltimore, MD 21211. Tel. 410-243-2010. Website? www.corradetti.com.
I went to see Overlook Cipper Mill which are contemporary homes with wooded views and the latest in sustainable design options. Corradetti was in this complex.
Anthony Corradetti is the artist. His work consists of “painting multiple layers of metallic paints which are individually kiln fired on large blown glass vessels”. Vessels are bowls. I remember learning about them when I wrote about the Happyrock Pottery a couple of weeks ago.
You can read about this process and about the different workshops that Corradetti is offering by just visiting the website above mentioned.
The studio is gorgeous. If you are interested in hosting a party at the studio, just give them a call because the studio is available for parties.
The Gallery has a beautiful representation of his work and are available for purchase.
So, I am passing on the info. just in case you find yourselves in Charm City or if you are in need of a gift that will certainly be a conversation piece.
Have a great day!! Talk to you later….
 
|
0 Comments