Right around now is when the stress of Christmas hits me. So many people to buy for + so little time (not to mention the added pressure that I’d like each gift to be meaningful!) I wish I could transport myself back to Seattle for an afternoon of shopping at Watson Kennedy. Owner Ted Kennedy Watson has an impeccable eye for merchandise (and merchandising) that I think I could knock off my entire list in a matter of hours, unless I got distracted poking through piles of paper ephemera. (That actually happened.) To persuade you, I’ve included a few photos from my August visit, but for the full effect, follow the Watson Kennedy blog – think of it as a catalog, updated (almost) daily. And yes, Watson Kennedy ships.
hugo guinness wall
paper ephemera purchased at my august visit
maps
Hello! Despite the sheer lunacy of taking on this task during the holidays, I’m in the throes of cleaning stuff out: selling, giving away, and occasionally, throwing away. I’ve added a couple of new pieces to my tag sale … if you’re looking for jewelry, handbags, cashmere or shoes, please take a moment to check it out.
I feel like every month I start my Flickr Faves post with “I can’t believe it’s already insert month“, but truly: how can it be December? (Perhaps spending Thanksgiving week in London may have something to do my feeling of lost time.) And speaking of redundancy, why is it that my urge to declutter and get rid of possessions is strongest during the holiday season? Trying to find some balance, and shop online as much as possible since malls and I do not go well together.*
While the calendar churns on, please have a look back at some of my November Flickr favorites:
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- Grand Bend #3
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- Vieux-Port de Montréal, Point-à-Caillière
- IMG_9706
- After
- Bare Bones
There’s definitely a theme of spareness to the set; I think it calms me. Having less to see allows you to focus on what’s important. Cheers and Happy December ….
* yes, this definitely comes off a bit “scrooge-y”, but returning from travel always resets my brain and forces me to refocus. going overseas (even to a large city like london) turns off the consumerist part of my brain, and i’m always grateful when it occurs.
heart of gold hand-printed stationery set
Besotted Brand launched this fall, and I have to say that it was more than worth the wait: I love everything. Minimalism with strong attention to detail never fails to impress, and Besotted Brand has it in spades. From rubber stamps in a romantic scrawl to simply elegant labels to très luxe stationery, the items are versatile, packaged beautifully, and perfect for gift-giving: you can even use Besotted Brand’s holiday concierge service to add gift-wrap and a tag or note typed on an antique typewritter. (See what I mean about attention to detail?) Click over to the Besotted Brand shop to see the full collection – new items are continually being added – and use the code simplepretty for free shipping on orders of $50 or more through December 21.
the original flag label
special delivery ii hand stamp: modern scrawl
images courtesy of besotted brand
giraffe baby shower invitation
I don’t know if I’m drawn to Double Bravo Designs because designer Barbara Buenz’s work is influenced by her travels, or because it’s delightfully minimal. Doesn’t matter – either way, I’m a fan. You can see more at the Double Bravo website and/or Etsy shop. (The “firsts” collection would make a perfect gift for new parents.)
“first word”, from the “firsts” collection
darling announcement
change of address
snail-adorned envelope
minimalist beachy thank you
images courtesy of barbara buenz/double bravo designs
