The Cool Factor

It's so hot in most of the country, I thought we would try to think "cool" today. This roundup features fun finds that have the"cool factor." By that I mean, things that made me say "that's so cool," or "wow" how cool is that? These items are unique and special. They run the gamut from ice spheres, lightbulb moments, and candy that you will want to drink! 

Here's What's Cool 

Spherical Ice Ball Maker

If you have sipped a whiskey at a Gastro Pub or five star lounge, you have probably been served one of these.  This product will let your drink look and stay cooler longer. Best yet, because of this stylish sphere, there is no dilution to your expensive spirits.  Now this is cool.

AHAlife

Lulu Frost Plaza Collection

I have long been obsessed with this collection (Hello, Mr. Shop This?) The designs are inspired by the iconic New York City Plaza Hotel. When the hotel closed for renovations in 2005, designer, Lisa Salzer, came across the original bronze numbers that graced the hallways. She then cast them and replicated the look in letters and numbers with custom chain options. Having stayed at The Plaza many times, this chic collection is sentimental. Who wouldn't mind being gifted with #1?

Lulu Frost

Kelly Wearstler Keyhole Keychain

In my opinion, anything Kelly Wearstler designs is certainly cool and super luxe. These are unexpected designs in 22K gold platig. If you need a dose of design, go play on her website. 

Kelly Wearstler

Cross Body Power 

There is a need for this clever bag. It is the perfect pairing of high tech and high style. It keeps your phone charged while you are out and about! I love that it is Eco and animal friendly, yet buttery soft and lined in satin. Pick your fave color from 13 stylish shades and get powered up on the go!

AHAlife

Metallic Dipped Light Bulbs

I literally had a light bulb moment when I found these beautiful bulbs. I have two custom metal shades with an open metalwork design. These are the perfect bulbs! Just think of the glam glow they will cast. Also available in silver.

CB2

 David Bowie Wood Block Print

Talented artist, Myriam Santos, helps us all channel our inner rock star. Click below to read about her interesting process. Not a fan? There is Willie Nelson and Ozzie Osbourn art, too.

AHAlife

Tomato Vine Candle

This candle must smell like Summer! It's a collaboration of Food52 and Hawkins New York. It is the true essence of "farm to table," with an earthy and slightly sweet smell. I just love the idea of it. The perfect Summer host gift.

Food52 

LED Lapel Flash Light

Now I realize there is nothing too unusual about a flash light, but I have never come accross one that you wear. Its a super safety device for evening skiing, bike riding, jogging or running. I love it for children, too. A bright idea!

Nordstrom

Josie Maran Argan Oil Mask

 I am a bit obsessed with this product. First of all, aren't the colors pretty? Made with Argon oil by Super model Josie Maran, this magical mask nourishes, soothess, refines and firms your face. And while you are doing good things for your complexion, you get an aromatherapy experience. I have only had a sample, but I loved it so much, I just ordered it from

 QVC     

ROSÉ

Gummy Bears

If you have been on va-cay or under a rock for the last week or so, maybe you have not heard of this cult candy. From the makers of Champagne Gummy Bears, the newest sweet offering is one part candy and another part wine. It sold out in two hours, but you can get on the wait list by clicking below. Cheers!

Sugarfina

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Entertaining Etsy Style

As you might be able to tell, I am still without my lovely little laptop. Apologies for any formatting issues. I am being challenged to the max!

Saturdays At Shop This

   

Hi there! Miss me? This is me all dressed up with no place to go! As I was creating Thursday's blog post on Wednesday, all hell broke loose on my computer. Oh it was ugly. There were robots, MacKeepers, and darkness. My over worked and very tired little Macbook had a fit and refused to turn on. Needless to say I have been having technical difficulties. These issues won't get easier until my little friend is returned in 5-7 days. Hang in with me, please?  

I am using a nifty notebook of my personal angel, Sharon. It is not a MAC and I am in foreign territory. Apologies if this post looks silly. Here's hoping........But besides my own issues, it has been a horrible and disturbing week. As President Obama said "this is not a black issue.....this is an American issue." The recent events affects us all.

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 A free sample of Trish McEvoys BB Cream (thanks Nordstrom) came with my order of her Instant Eye Lift. Both products are fabulous! I highly recommend them.
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Since there was no Foodie Friday, here's a recipe that I know you will love. Nectarine and Fried Mozzarella Caprese Salad at Half Baked Harvest.
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Loving this Gold Divided Platter at CB2. 
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Last Call at Neiman Marcus! Boy is it ever good.
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The most popular post all year: Entertaining Etsy Style.
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This Fringe Jewelry at Bauble Bar sure is fun!
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Sur La Table has a new Wine Club. Click to read all about this perfect pairing.
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The Finley is an adorable Weekender Bag for the price. 

Without my computer, I just may have to do some Summer reading!

Have A Great Weekend! 
I hope to see you next week.
WHEW!

Summer Is In The Beach Bag!

Living directly across from a beautiful beach, one would think I get there often. The truth is I don't. But I do love a good beach bag. No matter, if you go to the beach, the pool, or the farmers market, we all need a chic carryall for Summer. Enjoy this roundup of my favorite finds for the beach and beyond.

HERE: 15 Beautiful Bags

Debbie Katz Beach Boho Bag 
Embroidery and tassels create a Boho chic vibe. Available in three stylish shades.
South Beach Swimsuits

Tassel Straw Tote Bag

This is the bag you will wear with everything and bring everywhere - from the beach to the bistro. It's perfect!
Boston Proper  

Mar Y Sol

I have long thought this brand of totes to be the "best in beach" accessories. They are so good looking you will carry them everywhere!
Bloomingdale's  

Vanessa Bruno
Another fancy find that works everywhere all Summer long.
Farfetch  

Pomaria Tote

Too much fun under the sun! A chic and colorful way to tote your beach necessities.
Anthropologie

Kate Spade New York Garden Hallie Tote

A glam take on classic beach style. Why not be fancy at the beach?
Nordstrom  

Buji Baja Provence Tote

Crafted of multicolored striped woven sisal and accented with a straw pom-pom and tassel charm, this bag has Summer written all over it. My fave!

Barneys Warehouse 

River Island Metallic Reversible Beach Bag

It's faux but rather fabulous for the price!

ASOS   

M Missoni Beach Bag

Made with fabulous flair, this made in Italy bag features a fun wave print. I think you will be surprised by the price.
Zappos Luxury 

Perforated Medallion Tote
The bag to carry with every swimsuit you own. Of course, it's not leather, but the design is sophisticated, just the same. Available in three shades, but the white is so right (and so is the price.) It's a good buy.
Target 

Canvas Tote

Bendel's signature stripes are featured on these terrific totes. Toss in your bikini and sandy towel, as these bags have waterproof linings. Striped with style!
Henri Bendel  

Ban.do Peekaboo Clear Tote
Such fun things in this collection. You will find several terrific totes including this white and clear carry all. It's all affordable.
Nordstrom 

Naples Terry Tote
As seen in Real Simple Magazine, these terry totes are as soft as sand, but sturdy enough to pack all of your gear.  They look as if they would be very packable.

Echo New York  

Waikiki Convertible Towel Tote
The perfect gift for yourself or a beach loving BFF. This beautiful bag turns into a beach towel with the pull of a zipper. Pretty cool!
Free People

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Suit Up: One Piece Wonders

Entertaining Etsy Style

(Via Hello Pop Shop )

I hope that your holiday weekend was fun. Even though the 4th of July is over, there are still many reasons to entertain this Summer. Etsy is a marvelous marketplace for all kinds of party goods, but it can be overwhelming. Today I have made it easier for you. From beautiful balloons at Hello Pop Shop above to amazing Agate Table Numbers at Fox and Sparrow Designs, here are some party perfect picks.

 

      
HERE: Fourteen Fun Finds

Cheers Tray
These acrylic trays are clearly chic. Pick your favorite pattern and start serving stylishly. By the way, the pricing is fabulous.
Sequins and Lipstick at Etsy    

Monogram Cups
There's a place in life for shatterproof cups....around a pool, on the patio and more. If you are going to use them, make them elegant. These are Recyclable, Reusable, BPA Free, and really good looking! 
Sequins and Lipstick at Etsy    

Agate Table Numbers

These beautiful gems ar imported from Brazil. They will be a focal point of your tablescape for a wedding or any special event. Choose your colors and create a very chic look.

Fox and Sparrow Design at Etsy

Circus Children's Party Hats

Have you ever tried to find a child's party hat? If you can find one, they are very generic and rather cheap looking. These are handmade and ever so fun in silk and cotton.

Wonderful Collective at Etsy

Layered Butterflies

These butterflies are not free, but they sure are fun! Find the color and size you are looking for and add dimension to place cards, invites, gift boxes, scrapbboks and more. These are a small detail that will not go unnoitced.

Emilia Paperie

Buffet Food/Dessert Signs - Black and White Stripe

Love this idea! Have a buffet? Send your menu to LPD and they will print it all and send you digital downloads. Or for an extra fee, they will send you the actual signage. Click for details.

Lola Paper Doll at Etsy 

Gold Glitter Banner

Say it with glitter! Banners, props, and glitter galore can be found at this sweet shop. There is a banner for every occasion, and if you still can't find what you want to say, they will make one for you.    

Little Retreats at Etsy   

Retro Cocktail Swizzle Sticks

If paper umbrellas aren't your thing, these stylish sticks will be. They are made from mirrored acrylic and have a retro vibe. A perect addition to your bar car.

The Roc Shop at Etsy

Popcorn Box Set

Popcorn is a inexpensive and tasty treat for all kinds of parties or movie nights. Make it look elegant with this set.

Food With Fashion at Etsy 

Ice Cream Or Candy Spoons

July is Ice Cream Month, you know. Treat your guests at home or special event with stylish spoons - personalized or not. They also work great for a candy buffet. Fanciful fun!

Mod Party at Etsy    

Disposable Paper Products

If your event calls for disposables, make them unique. Think marble, gold stripes and more. These are some fancy finds.

Paper Boy At Etsy   

Confetti Card

Yes, you can buy single cards on Etsy, and they are hands above your normal card store variety.  I thought this one was elegant.

Leveret Paperie at Etsy

Baby Shower Suite

So sweet. Be the hostess with the mostest and let the party begin with these. 

Leveret Paperie

Gold Stripe Bow Straws

Throw a Kate Spade New York inspired Bachelorette party or Birthday party for girls of all ages. Perfect for umbrella cocktails or chocolate milk.

Fabulous Little Party at Etsy

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