The Guest with the Best Gift for the Hostess with the Mostess

With all the beach/pool/house parties coming up this spring/summer, you don't want to show up empty handed. And oftentimes the last thing you may think about is the hostess/host gift, so you find yourself stopping off to grab a bottle of your favorite wine or champagne. Thoughtful, sure! Original, well.... no. Here are a few ideas that will be a smash with any host. I know I'd love the recipe box(the tabbed "Cocktails" and "Cassaroles" dividers are AWESOME) and the Cotton Candy toothpicks (so much more fun than the standard, mint flavored picks).

Click here to find Jack and Lulu in a store near you.

Head on over to Archie McPhee & Co. for a huge selection of fun and unusual gift ideas like the Bacon Bandages, the Funky Fresh Corn Dog air freshener and the Cotton Candy flavored toothpicks.

May eDesign

In celebration of the arrival of summer, (yes SUMMER - it is HOT here in Florida), I thought I'd put together a design for your outdoor space. All of the items featured in this months design are available through WorldMarket.com. My favorite is the printed parasol - so sweet. With the deck storage box coming in as a close second (a necessity in my opinion as storing outdoor cushions is imperative in prolonging the life of your fabric). The chaise loungers are a steal priced at $59.99 and they fold up so that you can tote them to a friends house or the beach. Have fun soaking up the sun this summer (don't forget the SPF!).

Expand and Go

I don't know about you, but when I'm on the go with my files, a briefcase or attache case is often not my first choice for hauling my work. I'm just not a briefcase girl...so when I found these Bella Leather Expandable Totes from SeeJaneWork.com I went nuts! They are both functional and stylish. I really like the detachable straps too, making the adjustment from shoulder to desk a breeze. Priced at $96.00 and offered in a variety of colors (green is my fave).

Get Grillin'

Planning a backyard barbecue? Well get on over to PaperSource.com, (my favorite place to find unique invitations and gift ideas) and check out these *hot* invites. I like that there are a variety of options that range in price. The first invite pictured below is a custom print order priced at $63.00 for 25. While the second invite pictured is $13.50 for 10 and you print them yourself on your own printer. Get grillin' yo'!!

The Write Stuff

Do you love journaling? Here are some of my faves from PaperSource.com. Record the outrageous and fun things your little one says in the My Quotable Kid journal. The Music Listography is awesome with pages to record top 20 favorite song lists and your favorite party mix list. The Kids' Travel Journal is a great keepsake with a place to record fun new sayings, daily activities and even store maps. Good stuff!

Heather Bailey = Awesome

Images courtesy of Heather Bailey

I come across great websites and blogs all the time, but I really felt the need to share this one, I really think you will love it! Heather Bailey is a fabric and lifestyle designer and man her site it beautiful (as are her crafty creations). Do enjoy!

Wishlist

Pictured Above: Etro Paisley Dress $791.00 from FarFetch.com

Pictured above left: Cloud Print T-Shirt dress by Jonathan Saunders priced at $259.00; Farfetch.com. Above right: Jasmine DeMilo - Fitted Mini Dress priced at $287.00; Farfetch.com

Pictured above: Silver Cube Ring by Cheap Monday, $25.00; Farfetch.com

Pictured above: Perspex cat bangle by Katie Hillier for Markus Lupfer, $289.00;
Farfetch.com

Take a Stroll Down to One Kings Lane

Starting today at 11:00 EST you can find great deals on Social Couture at OKL (One Kings Lane). Also...don't forget, the OKL Tastemaker Tag Sale ends 5/4/2010.

"Social Couture serves up a festival of bright, imaginative and inspiring tabletop designs, destined to be add life to any party—and make any dinner feel like one. Come peruse our fresh, bright collection of plates, platters, linens and more."

1. Mosaic Platter - Set of 2

2. Mosaic Salad/Side Plate - Set of 4

3. Two-toned salad/chip bowl - Set of 2

A Little Cushion

Thinking about this chaise cushion from Meijer.com for my new wood chaise loungers that I just ordered. At $40.00 each I think they are quite the bargain. What do you think?

BowHaus Kennel Table

What a novel idea for a pet kennel?! I have two puppies that need kenneling and I have to say their travel kennels do not make for good decor. This end table/kennel is a great solution to that eye sore of a puppy house.

All Modern Pet.com has a great selection of fun and modern pet supplies and goodies. But be prepared to dig deep cause these end tables rival that of fine furniture at $599.00 each plus $89.95 for the pet bed. At least shipping is free. Check out their other kennel end table options here.