I'm Susan — devout Francophile, mother of twins, writer, creative director, and aspiring author. I've been sharing my life here since 2010...thanks for reading!
We had a lot of fun on Friday at our local tree farm! With a fresh dusting of snow on the ground, we frolicked + danced our way through the fields, choosing our favorites along the way. I just love the miniature trees, as they’re the perfect size for Marie + Henry! We made time for a snowball fight before leaving with our fresh greenery…it was a perfect day.
Every year I share gift ideas from makers + creatives in Philadelphia, in honor of Black Friday and Small Business Saturday. There is so much talent in this city I could make numerous gift guides, but I’ve narrowed it down to a festive twelve. Help support these talented small business owners + creatives, as well as the artisans in your own community.
happy shopping + happy holidays!
1…PEG + AWL waxed canvas tote in spice // use code SPOLIA for 20% off thru 12/1
2…FORAGE HABERDASHERY lady bow in metallic gold // use code HOLIDAY for 35% off thru 12/8
3…NORMAN PORTER frontier belt // use code BUTTERBALL for 20% off thru 12/1
4…ABJ GLASSWORKS teardrop terrarium kit // free domestic shipping on orders over $75 with code thanks14
5…HONEST ALCHEMY + KING OF THE BEASTS indigo dyed wooden necklace // enjoy 30% off thru 12/1
6…HAND IN HAND SOAP orange blossom liquid hand soap + lotion // use code GIVETHANKS for 25% off thru 12/1
7…GIRLS CAN TELL eco-friendly pocket notebooks // use code YAY30 for 30% off
8…BABY JIVES CO personalized mini cloud ornament // offering a variety of holiday deals!
9…NEUARMY SURPLUS CO waxed canvas U.S. field pouch // visit site for details
10..ZOET BATHLATIER tangier candle // use code BF2014 for 15% off thru 11/30
11..THREE POTATO FOUR philadelphia pennant // use code 3P4THANKS for 30% off thru 12/2
12..ART IN THE AGE craft spirits // spirits not sold in store but support other local talent with numerous deals in store!
Three years ago today, I “had a feeling” and chose not to drink this wine on Thanksgiving. A few weeks later, we learned that we were expecting the greatest gifts of our lives. I now drink it each year on this day, in gratitude and celebration.
wishing you all a happy thanksgiving!
The holiday season is now in full swing, and I’m reviewing my wish list – this paris paper cut map has been on it for far too long. It’s time to change that, don’t you think Santa (ahem, mr. fleurishing)?! Artist and designer Julie Marabelle of Famille Summerbelle creates these intricate designs, each with amazing detail + quirky characters. Her paper masterpieces take over 20 hours of meticulous work…check out this video demonstrating the process (and condensing it into 2 minutes). If you’re not in the market for an original paper cut, they offer printed versions as well. With an extensive collection of gifts (like these fun new house boxes), there is sure to be something for everyone on your list!
Exciting news friends! I’m taking over the Terrain instagram feed for their holiday open house in Glen Mills, PA. If you live nearby, I do hope you will join us for the festivities, including awesome local vendors, curated gifts, pie-tasting, crackling fires, carolers, and christmas trees galore (charlie brown would approve of this one, don’t you think?)! Follow along via instagram, and as always…here are some festive links to get you in the holiday spirit this weekend.