Happy Turkey Day

November 24th, 2009

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I’m hosting Thanksgiving again this year and couldn’t be more thrilled. I have my menu in order and hope to spend this evening at the grocery store. But, before the in-laws arrive, I’d like to buy a new hostess apron like this one from Retro Mama. This Wisconsin seamstress also offers a great damask pink print, but the blue coordinates better with my kitchen. Order it for just $30 here.

The Dane

November 23rd, 2009

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Living in Madison, I’ve been to The Great Dane a few times. In addition to their brews, my favorites on their menu are the fish tacos, hummus plate and falafel. So, although I don’t usually study their full menu, the classic design and newsprint layout definitely make it tempting to peak. Props to designer Craig Grabhorn who worked with Glowac + Harris on the three menu designs. Also shown is one of Craig’s screen prints which is pretty sweet. Check out more of his work at craiggrabhorn.com.

Show your cards

November 22nd, 2009

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I normally just cover our fridge with all the beautiful holiday cards we receive. But this year, I’m tempted to display them in this Card Chandelier from Pottery Barn. What a great way to show off the assortment of designs without having to use a roll of tape or box of magnets. Then, in the off-season, I could hang photos or flowers above the dining table. Check it out here or visit Pottery Barn in Appleton, Madison or Wauwatosa.

Atticus Shop

November 16th, 2009

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Have you found your holiday outfit yet? No matter what your winter plans are, everyone deserves a few new pieces in their wardrobe. A quaint little shop on Madison’s State Street, called Atticus, is having a Holiday Preview this Thursday the 19th at 7pm. It’s the perfect place to begin your shopping or just take a peak at the latest fashions. They feature over 25 designers for both guys and gals and are constantly changing their assortment. Visit atticusshop.com. Oh, and I hear there will be mulled wine and holiday treats there too~

Visual Interest

November 11th, 2009

anthropologie

Anthropologie appreciates innovation, craftsmanship, artfulness and good design. This is one reason why they consistently win visual awards for their store windows and displays. This Sunday, their Hilldale location in Madison is offering a workshop hosted by the visual manager and design team. Learn how this group of creative thinkers come up with such unique ideas and implement them throughout their locations nationwide. Give them a ring if you’re interested in attending.

Driven

November 3rd, 2009

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The UWM Student Design Conference is this Saturday, November 7th from 8-5 in the UWM Student Union Ballroom. This 3rd annual design conference is a great opportunity to network with fellow designers, explore the evolution of design, and learn about the past, present and future of design. Keynote speakers include Robynne Raye from Modern Dog Designs and Stephen Farrell from The School of Art Institute of Chicago. There will also be breakout sessions lead by designers from C2 Graphics, Iconologic, RedmarkSpreenkler and The Little Friends of Printmaking. More info here.