March 14th, 2011
One of the best thing about being in a small coastal town or a small town for that matter, is that as you walk and enter different shops you become familiar with the friendly shopkeeppers. A winning smile and a friendly disposition is all it takes.
I was walking on Atlantic Ave. the other day and right across from the Veterans Park by the Intracoastal and next to the Old School Bakery, a lady was coming out of the store. I stopped and asked her if she owned the shop and she said yes. I praised the beautiful colors and asked if I could come in.
Varietai is located at 812 E. Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach. Tel. 561-455-2767. E-mail address is varietai.delray@gmail.com. The shopkeepper? Michele Ramirez. If you have been in Delray for some time, you might remember a store called Durango’s Attic. Well, she was the owner of that store. About 3 months ago she opened Varietai. I had seen it and thought it looked great from the outside. Therefore, it was time to check it out.
As you come into the store there is a lot to absorb. Just like the name of Varietai, there is plenty of variety. If would be hard not to be able to find something for your home, for a girlfriend, teacher, you name it; she has something for everyone. She has new items but there are also plenty of items on consignment, as well.
As I browsed a unique collection of furniture, art, lamps and jewelry, my eyes were gravitating to the floor. The painted floor was done by Michele. The floor was cement and it was covered from corner to corner with art; the koi taking center stage.
Michele also paints on glass and it is for sale, as well.
There is a collection of very attractive jewelry from Australia; the colors and stones unique.
Michele store is warm; not fussy. Again, I have to mention the colors because they are bright and a definition of what South Florida is all about.
Varietai offers a great collection of pillows. Michele said the pillows are becoming very popular and they are very well priced.
And here are the rest of the pictures so that you can she what can be found in this very well stocked shop.
If you have any questions, please call Michele at the above mentioned telephone number or you can also e-mail at varietai.delray@gmail.com.
Talk to you later……
January 27th, 2011
Back on October 26, I wrote a post on a furniture consignment shop called Seaquels in Ocean View, Delaware. The store is owned by Cindy and Kathy. By the way, if you want to see that post just click on the month of October, 2010 and scroll down to the 26th.
These two ladies sent me an e-mail. They thought I should go and visit White Orchid Interiors as possible material for my blog. They thought the store looked beautiful and readers might like to find out that there is another choice for their decorating needs, among the ones that already exist in our Delaware beaches. Word of mouth; again, is the best advertisement.
Well let me tell you more about White Orchid. First of all, it is located at 83 Atlantic Ave., Ocean View, DE 19970. Tel. is 302-541-4044. Website? www.whiteorchidde.com. It is so easy to get to because all you have to do if you are driving on Rt. 1 is get to Bethany Beach and right there at the intersection of Rt. 1 and Rt. 26 just go west for about 2 miles and you will see it on the right hand side of the road.
It is a house and at the beginning I did not know where it was but once I saw it I, definitely, knew where I was.
Because this showroom was a home, it has that look and ambiance; you move through the different rooms of a house. Even though it is an interior design shop, furniture, home accents, and art are available for purchase on the spot.
Nothing makes a store shine more than the people that work in it. In this case the owner, Leslie Bixler. It was the first time I had met her and immediately I felt at ease with her. She is friendly and exudes confidence. You can tell she loves what she does. She is not new at this type of business. Leslie ‘s background is in retailing, marketing and advertising. And she is a very busy lady.
The store features metals, natural seagrass, lamps, luxury bedding, designer pillows, and mirrors, among many other accessories.
White Orchid Interiors is eclectic and stylish; the way the store is decorated radiates proportion and symmetry.
Leslie offers services like residential space planning, custom window treatments, paint consultation, wallcoverings and in home design services.
Most important is that her designs skills cater to a variety of interior styles while working within your budget. I remember one time a friend of mine who is a decorator told me that if your budget has no limits then for a designer it becomes a very easy job. It is when a limited budget is in place that a designer really becomes a creator of sorts; innovative, showing taste, style and class.
Her local art is original; one being the watercolors on her wall. They are by Dorothy Harrison Braun, who is her mother. Mrs. Harrison offers private and group instruction and you can call her at 302-539-2045.
I took so many pictures thinking I would only put a few on my post. But, I really liked them all and what better way to show White Orchid than by showing some of the pictures of this very unique interior design shop.
As I was leaving I kept thinking about my own style. It is a mix of several styles which make my own look, I guess. Casual and easy; that’s it.
I also remember reading a quote “Style comes from within and is a reflection of your character and preference”. Could not have said it better myself.
Have a good one!!…Talk to you later….
October 26th, 2010
Consignment is the act of consigning; placing things in the hand of another, but retaining ownership until the goods are sold.
Well, what a surprise!! I did not know that Seaquels had opened in Ocean View , Delaware. Ocean View is west of Bethany Beach, by just a few miles, if that.
Seaquels motto? Resale! Replace!! Renew!!!
Seaquels is at 9 Atlantic Ave. (Rt. 26), Ocean View, DE, 19970. Tel. 302-829-8636. E-mail is seaquels@gmail.com. The website is under construction, at the moment, but will be up and running soon. The owners of this store are Cindy Davis and Kathy Green; friends from Philadelphia and Baltimore who decided, a year ago, that it was now or never to open Seaquels.
My friend, Debbie, was the one that suggested I visit this well received store.
The smile on someone’s face and the courtesy extended to me is something that I value highly. It’s almost like an instant connection. Cindy and Kathy were like that. Immediately the conversation started; they were so happy to show their store. I was not the only one there but they were very at ease in handling all of us.
You cannot miss the store on Rt. 26. It is colorful and will put a smile on your face, as well. They are open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Everything is on consignment. The furniture looked like brand new. Cindy and Kathy said that they move things around a lot. Customers were stopping and asking them to be on the look out for that special chair, table, sofa, or lamp.
Cindy and Kathy also said that they get a lot of local artists that will place their work on consignment, as well.
Each room is arranged to show off all the items in a very unique way; paying attention to details.
Even though it is a consignment store, they reserve the right to accept or not to accept items.
I took so many pictures so I hope you can get an idea of the store. Go check them out because you are going to be very impressed. Really, you will!!
The Quieter Season at the beaches is great….take advantage of it….talk to you later….
July 9th, 2010
What’s Going On at the Beaches? A lot. You can pick and choose and here are a few things that might be of interest to you, whether, a resident or a visitor.
Please note that Betty’s is now open for lunch, from Noon until 4:00 p.m. so if you are shopping at the outlets or going to see a movie; just remember that this restaurant has been received very well. Betty’s is located at 8585 Coastal Highway #23, right there at Midway Shopping Center. For more information, please call 302-645-6160 or visit www.bettypureandsimple.com. On 3/17 I posted a blog on this restaurant. All you have to do to see it is go on the left hand side of this blog and click on the month of March and scroll down to the date.
Saturday, 7/10 – Addiction and Subtraction. A jewelry show opening at Heidi Lowe Gallery on 328 Rehoboth Ave. in Rehoboth Beach. For info. please go to www.heidilowegallery.com or call 302-227-9203.
This is a very innovative jewelry studio and I wrote a post on 9/20. If you are interested in seeing it please click on the month of September on the left hand side of this blog and scroll down.
Saturday, 7/10 – Good For You Market Cheese Class. What goes around becomes a rind. We know what’s inside; let’s explore the outer edges. $35/person. The location is on Rt. 9 West., Lewes. Call 302-684-8330 and class stars at 1:00 p.m. On June 22nd I wrote a post on Good for You Market so all you have to do to see it is click on the month of June and scroll down to the date.
Saturday, 7/10 – Second Saturdays Destination Art Walk. Check out downtown galleries from 6 – 9 p.m. as part of Second Saturdays Art Walks presented by Mosaic, a gallery collective for downtown Rehoboth Beach. Need more info? Please visit www.mosaicrehoboth.com.
Saturday, 7/10 – Delaware Seashore Sandcastle Contest at the Delaware Seashore State Park, South of Dewey Beach. Free but daily entrance fee to the park applies. 9:30 a. with prizes awarded at 2:00 p.m. Rain date 7/17.
Saturday, 7/10 – Touch-A-Truck – A benefit for the March of Dimes at Rehoboth K-Mart on Rt. 1 from 10:00 until 2:00 p.m. Trucks for kids to explore as well as entertainment, raffles and refreshments. $5 for children 2 – 12 and free for everyone else. Info. at www.touchatruckde.com.
Saturday, 7/10 – The 14th Annual Running of the Bull, Noon, at the Starboard Restaurant in Dewey Beach. More info? Please visit www.thestarboard.com.
Sunday, 7/11 – Race – 10th North Beach 5K. For more info. please go to www.sevensistersdeweybeach.com
Thursday, 7/15 – “The Way We Were” – Join the Rehoboth Historical Society in a lively discussion of immigration trade, and culture in 17th Century Delaware, at 7:00 p.m. at the Rehoboth Beach Museum located at 511 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
Learn about who the early colonists were, where they came from and where they have gone; who traded with them and what was going on in the rest of the world while Delaware was coming into being.
This program is presented in conjuction with the exhibit “Captain John and Sarah Avery: A 17th Century Family on Delaware”s Frontier.
Please RSVP by calling 302-227-7310 for the presentation which will be free to members and non-members are asked to make a $3 donation.
Have a great week-end!!!
June 18th, 2010
I have a friend, and her name is Trish. The othe day we took off and went on a road trip that pretty much ended at J. Conn Scott. She is fairly new to the area so I was giving her my undivided tour.
J.Conn Scott has its Main Showroom at 6 East Church St., Selbyville, DE, 19975. Tel. 302-436-8205. Website: www.jconnscott.com.
On fashionable, Baltimore Ave., in Rehoboth Beach, they have a “Showhouse”. The address is 27 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971. Tel. 302-227-3780.
J. Conn Scott is a family business. They were established in 1924. A solid reputation, customer service, and the best furniture available has made this company what it is today.
Their main showroom in Selbyville is massive; huge. You can fine furniture from traditional to coastal. Rugs, accesories, art, antiques, vases, lamps are part of the many items available for all our decorating needs.
The “Showhouse” in Rehoboth is beautiful, as well. It gives the visitors to the Rehoboth area ideas and inspirations. Richard changes that “Showhouse” every Tuesday.
I really can talk about this company with ease because years ago when I moved to Rehoboth Beach from Bethany Beach, Richard helped me. I laughed because at the time he told me that he would go into some of his customers’ homes and they still had everything in the same spot he placed them originally. Well, I just told him the other day that everything is in the same place in my house, as well. I think that’s a compliment, really.
J. Conn Scott’s employees let you walk around their showroom at peace. Need help? Then, they are there to help you with your choices and decorating needs.
You might not think you need a decorator. I think some are a bit intimidating. But, they can actually save you money in the long run. A decorator has more experience and could prevent you from making costly mistakes. Decorators have put together so many rooms; probably more so than you. Therefore, their experience is invaluable. Some times it can be the difference between a pretty room and a room that will make people’s jaws drop. In the end, it will be how comfortable you are in making choices.
Let me show you what this Showroom is all about:
I have just shown you part of this 35,000 square foot showroom. It is pretty impressive and to get the full effect, you really have to visit the store.
Richard told me that so many items are coming in every day. They deliver; you just have to tell them where.
Have a great day…..and week-end too….
February 13th, 2010
I had to go and check this store out after I was the recipient of several presents at Christmas time.
Bella Luna is located on 127 Rehoboth Ave., right on the Avenue. The tel. is 302-227-0267. The website is www.bellalunatic.com and the e-mail address is bellalunatic@gmail.com. The owner of the store is Janice Elder and Bella Luna is about 6 years old.
Well, this store is predominantly for women; young and old. But, if a gentleman comes to buy a present, he will not be intimidated. Plus, Mugg, who has been working at the shop for about 2 years is very friendly and ready to tell you about the products they represent.
You know, if you live in Rehoboth Beach, you are always driving up and down the Avenue. I had noticed the yellow awning, but to be honest I thought the store was catering to a younger crowd and therefore I just kept on going.
I had met Janice before and told her that I really wanted to come and take pictures and talk about the store. Downtown Rehoboth Beach is such a nice place to go shopping, even if it is window shopping; interacting with the shopkeepers is a real treat. It’s relaxing, and on a sunny day, it is beautiful.
Bella Luna is fully stocked and at first I got a little overwhelmed since there is so much to absorb. But, once you are in the store you will appreciate all the little corners Janice has in her store displaying all those neat items; the birthday corner, funny cards and cocktail napkins are an example.
Not only Bella Luna has touches for your summer house, but it has beautiful candles, lotions, scents, jewelry, scarves and purses.
Mugg took care of me the other day and she graciously explained how Janice always tries to find a perfect balance with her merchandise and at the same time appeal to a diverse taste with her unique findings.
The shop has about 7 artists represented throughout. Hanging from the walls are original pieces of art.
And, the following are some of the designs you will find:
Lalo Treasures – Jewelry. Orna Lalo started this company in 1990. She was inspired by flora and fauna and has been creating her work for over 20 years. A graduate in art and fashion design, she currently divides her time between her home in Israel and the company’s factory in Bulgaria. Her first store opened in Tel Aviv in 2006. Then, in 2007 a new shop opened in Eilat. Boston came after that and 3 booths in Sofia, Bulgaria inside the main shopping mall, as well. Her website is http://au.lalo-treasures.com.
Hotcakes Design – Jewelry. This company is owned by Caramia Visick and it began in 2000. Inspired by vintage Bakelite, the designs are modern. Their carved resin jewelry is hand cast from molds of Caramia’s design. All jewelry is made to order in their studio in San Francisco. Her website is http://hotcakesdesign.com.
Purses with a Past – These are colorful purses made from vintage materials. The designer is Michelle Cooley from Annapolis, Maryland. These purses can be given to a couple, a graduate or they can become a collector’s item. Even the cards, describing the purses and materials are vintage cards found by the designer.
Maruca Design – Handbags. This company is from Boulder, Colorado. Very unusual and progressive textiles are used; jacquard woven fabrics. Each bag is cut and sewn by hand just like when the company started in 1991.
About 13 years ago, I was in Steamboat Springs, CO and I bought one of these bags. I still have it and thought the bohemian look and celestial designs were so much fun. The website is http://www.marucadesign.com.
 My "Vintage" Maruca Bag Pacifica – Perfumes, soaps, candles and body butters. This company is owned by Brook Harvey-Taylor. Website is www.pacificaperfume.com. Her manifesto is “Love what you do and do what you love. Great waves make for great days. Don’t follow trends, follow your heart. Invest in a new world and keep ties to the old one.”
If you are a fan of any of the above mentioned lines, then, now you know that Bella Luna carries them and remember No Sales Tax In Delaware!!
Talk to you later and Happy Valentines Day!!!
January 13th, 2010
Throughout the, “Second Season”, at the Delaware Beaches and Ocean City, Maryland there are multitude of events, fairs, festivals, you name it. Too many to list; I usually list the ones that interest me the most. At this time of the year, is definitely much quieter but there are still some things going on.
In Delray Beach, Florida it is a different story. The season is getting hotter and hotter. And, thank God, because we have been here for a few days and it is pretty chilly. I will be mentioning a few of the events going on in this quaint Village by the Sea, as well.
So, here they go:
Rehoboth Beach
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – January 15, 16, and 17th – What Makes Us Tick? – It is a film and discussion series that explores the mysteries of human behavior. The 2010 series will focus on personal change. For example, how do you react when confronted with values, lifestyles, and viewpoints different than your own point of view? Are your personal biases triggered? There will be 3 films presented and each screening will end with an audience discussion about growth and change by a local mental health practitioner. The location will be at the Swan Ballroom, at the Atlantic Sands Hotel in downtown Rehoboth. Tickets are $16/film for Film Society Members and $18 for non-members. Complimentary wine, coffee, and desserts will be served prior to the screening. This event is presented by the Rehoboth Film Society and for more information on this particular screening, or if you want to check what else they have in store for the area, please visit their website www.rehobothfilm.com.
Friday, 1/15 – 7:00 p.m. – Stars Robert De Niro as a conservative, homophobic security guard, who suffers a debilitating stroke during a robbery….
Saturday, 1/16 – 2:00 p.m. – The stars of this film are: Ben Kingsley, Penelope Cruz, Patricia Clarkson and Dennis Hopper. Elegy charts the passionate relationship between a celebrated college professor and a young woman whose beauty both ravishes and destabilizes him…
Sunday, 1/17 – 2:00 p.m. – On the streets of Szechuan Province in the 1930s, the aged Wang is the King of masks, a renowned street performer and wizard of the venerable are of mask magic. He longs to pass on his technique but custom stipulates…
At the Rehoboth Art League, “Teach, Inspire, Preserve” – located just blocks from downtown Rehoboth Beach on Second St., which becomes Dodds Lane in Henlopen Acres. Website is www.rehobothartleague.org, tel. is 302-227-8408. You may also call RAL for a copy of their catalog.
RAL is a beautiful place to visit in Henlopen Acres. They are open year round and many art events, classes and displays are found in their buildings.
Some of those Winter/Spring Classes are:
Saturday, 1/16 – Intro to Digital Photography. This class will be taught by Marc Weinberg. How to get the most of a new digital camera. 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. On Sunday, January 17th this class will also be offered for ages 12-18 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Mondays until February 22nd from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. – Gentle Yoga taught by certified Yoga teacher, Kim Klabe. This is new to RAL but what a great way to relax your spirit and mind. No previous experience is required.
Wednesdays until February 10th – 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. Painting the Landscape in Pastel. Go to the next level and learn to layer, blend and choose color. Taught by local pastel artist, Nick Serratore.
Wednesdays until February 24th from 9:00 a.m. until 12;30 p.m. the class will be An Introduction to Ceramics. It will include major techniques used in clay work, techniques for decorating, finishing ceramic pieces and completing the pieces. Taught by local potter, Wes Stack.
The Cape Gazette, Rehoboth Beach and Delaware Beaches local newspaper is a sponsored of the “BeachOriginals” Dining Card. This card is offered by independent restaurants in Rehoboth, Lewes, Bethany Beach and Fenwick Island during the off season. It is valid through May 15, 2010 at participating restaurants. There are about 26 of these restaurants offering great deals.
How does it work? Well, you would use the card on valid days to receive a one time discount of up to $15 off the purchase of a second entree of equal or lesser value. The discount is equal to the cost of the lesser or equal valued entree, not to exceed $15. Some restrictions apply. Please visit www.delawarebeachguides.com/Beachoriginals for more information and how to purchase the dining card, or www.capegazette.com.
Ocean City, Maryland
Saturday and Sunday, 1/16 and 1/17 – Nautical and Wildlife Art Festival at the Ocean City Convention Center located on 40th St. and the Bay. It is the premiere, at the beach, presentation of nautical and wildlife artists in residence. For more info. please call 410-524-9177 or visit http://www.donaldsduckshoppe.com.
Delray Beach, Florida
Friday, 1/15 – Golden Dragon Acrobats from China – 8:00 until 10:00 p.m. – at the Crest Theatre located at the Old School Square on 51 N. Swinton, Delray Beach, FL 33444. Box Office tel. is 561-243-7922 Ext. 1.
Breathtaking acrobatics and traditional dance blend with ancient and contemporary music. This show was sold out on Broadway.
Friday – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday – 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Sunday – 2:00 p.m.
Tickets are $42 or $39 for groups of 10 or more. To purchase tickets please call the above telephone number or visit http://www.oldschool.org/performances.asp, for on-line purchases.
Saturday, 1/16 – Green Market on SE 4th Ave., just south of Atlantic. 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. This market is held every Saturday and it is a great way to start your morning. Walk around with your cup of cofee and purchase baked goods and local produce.
Saturday and Sunday – 1/16 and 1/17 – 21st Annual Downtown Delray Beach Festival of the Arts – Free and from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This art festival has consistently been ranked as one of the best art affairs in the U.S. It blends long time favorites with buzz-worthy names on the contemporary art scene. The festival starts at Atlantic Ave. all the way to A1A. So, The sand…the sea…it does not get better than this. For more info. please visit www.artfestival.com.
Have a great day!! Talk to you soon…
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