LESESNE

For All the Fantastic Moms Out There!

How perfect!  Moms definitely deserve a toast on their special day, and this adoralble "A Toast to Mom" card from Snow and Graham is just the ticket.  Wouldn't it be fantastic for her to open a beautifully ribbboned box of cupcakes (from her favorite local bakery of course!), and then to top it all off with champagne.  Start thinking about Mother's Day.  It will be here before you know it.

Fun Plates for Appetizers

I love the unexpected.  Though I'm all about color, it's fun every now and then to see something a little kooky.  These silhouette plates by Thomas Paul definitely fit the bill.  They're part of his melamine collection and would be perfect for any sort of appetizers, whether you're indoors or out.  Great conversation starters and no worrying about breakage!

This is My Kind of Hotel Room! Modern but Warm (not to mention it's in London!)

This gorgeous hotel room is in the South Kensington area of London.  It is in the Hotel #16, of the Firm Hotel Group.  I found the photo on the blogsite of Binth, a really cool stationery company in Chicago (and whose products we sell).  A contributor to their blog was in London on a photo shoot and stayed here.  Boy, am I envious!  And, you ought to see the garden!  Hmmm....would love to plan a future trip.

Fun Mini-Vase Grouping for Easter (Love the Colors!)

Thank you Middle Kingdom Porcelain!  I don't know what we would do without your great vases.  The interesting shapes and wonderful colors are always answering someone's creative desire.  These particular ones, mini-vases all, seem absolutely perfect for Easter, don't they?  What fun it would be to do a grouping on your banquet table, or even on small dining tables surrounded by a few freshly dyed eggs!

One of the Cards I Just Put Out for Mom's Day!

 

It just came to me last week that Mother's Day is fast approaching (didn't even know it was May 8th 'til I saw it somewhere in the paper)!  Sarah Early (Dodeline Design) has come through yet again with her creative design ideas.  I mean, who doesn't know a Mom who needs a break every now and then?  I'll post some of my other new cards in the next few weeks.  Don't be caught off guard like I almost was!

Colorful New Treats from Snow and Graham!

We all love Snow and Graham!  And this year they've come out with some wonderful new products.  Their notepads and recipe cards are two of them.  Though I've already posted the "Tweets" notepad, this one is called "Pompom".  Isn't it cheerful?!  The recipe cards come in several patterns, too, but I finally decided on this "Hydrangea" one.  Both of these make fantastic pick-up items for those gifts you need in a hurry.  Come see!

When You Need to Write it Down...

I don't know if many people are like me, but the more I talk about it, the more I think there are lots of us.  We're the "put it down on paper" set.  Maybe it's the hand to eye to brain thing, because once I've written something down I remember it so much more easily.  This is why I always like having fun journals or notepads on hand.  And these colorful examples by Carrot and Stick Press work just perfectly  - for all of us "writers".

Congrats to All the New Parents out There! (but here's a little aside...)

When we first become parents we are overcome with happiness.  And, once the little tykes develop a regular eating and sleeping routine, we are in a euphoric state.  However, as a parent of two (who are now adults by the way), I must say that this card describes parenthood perfectly.  Kids, we love you, but there are definitely times when you put us through hell.  So for me, this humorous card by those creative geniuses at 9 Spot Monk really rings a familiar note.  We never stop worrying about our children!

Do You Ever Feel Like This When Your Birthday Rolls Around?

Birthdays are meant to be celebrated, that's for sure.  But why is it that we're so often worried about the next one to follow instead of savoring the moment?  It seems we put more emphasis on the whole "one year older" thing instead of the celebration.  So, for those of us who are caught in that mindset here's a great card from 9 Spot Monk that says it all.  (Maybe this will cure the pessimist in so many of us!)

Doesn't This Snow and Graham Design Make You Think of Babies?!

Nothing says baby better than a little chick, especially in this bright yellow!  I love the "look who hatched" wording on the card, too.  Snow and Graham really does it up right when it comes to card designs, don't they?  You can even get Thank You cards in the same pattern.  So bright and cheery.  Come see!

My Most Favorite Flower of All!

Bright, sunny, happy and informal.  That's my kinda flower!  Of course, I also love them because they bring back such wonderful memories of summers spent in France, where I would see fields and fields of them.  The French name for sunflower is "tournesol", and they really do turn toward the sun.  Ride by the fields in the morning and all the flowers are facing one direction.  Go back later in the afternoon only to see how they've followed the sun.  AMAZING!  (Display them on any linen by Le Jacquard Francais and you'll definitely feel like you're in the south of France!)

Got a Really Special Book That Needs to be Noticed?

We all have "special" books, whether they be photo albums, college yearbooks, family Bibles or rare heirlooms.  The problem is, where to put them.  You want them to be close at hand and visible yet you don't want them lost in a stack that invariably just collects dust.  Well, these hand-forged sconces created by the Iron Design Company (Marc Maiorana) are just the ticket.  Put one of these on your wall and not only will your book be within reach, it will be displayed beautifully.   Come see!

Why I Love Using Nice Linens

I must confess that since opening the shop I don't have much time for entertaining.  But, when I do, I just love using pretty linens.  Not only do they make your table beautiful, they make your guests feel special.  The pattern I'm showing today is actually one that I have.  Since my table is round I layer the large square over a solid one and it looks fantastic, (if I do say so myself).  By adding sunflowers as the centerpiece I feel like my dinner guests are drawn into the colorful and relaxed atmosphere.  Many "mercis" to my favorite linen company, Le Jacquard Francais.  I can always count on them to make a good impression!

How Would You Use This Cool Table by Van Dalen Design?

This is one of my favorite pieces by Van Dalen Design.  First of all the contrast of the dark top with the legs is interesting.  Then the open areas, then the coolest drawer handle ever, then the clean lines ....I could just go on and on.  As for using this within my home, I almost think I'd like it to be free standing.  (That way I could show it off.)  But, it would also be a great sofa table, hall table, or even a kitchen island.  You'll never be at a loss for ideas with Neal Van Dalen's work!

Here's One of Our Most Requested Cards. Thanks Sycamore Street Press!

How often have you said something like this?  It really covers a lot without getting into too much detail, doesn't it?  Maybe that's one of the reasons it's such a popular card.  We love that our designers, such as Sycamore Street Press here, put so many of our thoughts into print.  And, it's letterpressed to boot!  Even more special!

This is How I Perked Myself Up After Yesterday's Cold and Dreary Day.

I know, I know, these are not any fancy-smancy flowers!  And the arrangement is definitely not any uber design either.  But for me, flowers help brighten any mood or day, whether they're exotic or just a garden variety like these.  (Actually, when I was young, I used to think gladiolas were just for altars at church because it seems that was where you always saw them.)  These days I have a much greater appreciation for them, so into LESESNE they came.  

Such a Cold & Rainy Day, but Le Jacquard Francais Will Cheer Me Up!

Wow!  We've just been hit with some unseasonal weather here in Charleston.  Just when we all were into spring fever mode, too.  Instead of looking out at the dreary rain from the shop window, I'm making a point to go through my most recent Le Jacquard Francais catalog.  The way they style their beautiful linens always brightens my mood!  I know I've posted the table square of this pattern before, but my photo was rather amateurish.  Now THIS shot is what I call gorgeous!  Take me there, please!!

Need to Send a Memorable Thank You Note? Carrot & Stick Press Can Help!

These are some of our most popular notesets here at LESESNE.  And, Carrot and Stick Press has been one of our favorite designers since the day we opened.  Their letterpressed notes are always so creative and colorful!  Now wouldn't you love to open the mailbox and receive one of these?  All the more reason to send one!

Love This Richly Colored Painting by Sally Bennett!

The colors in this painting entitled "Spanish Moss Deep Violet" are just so lush.  Sally Bennett has definitely got the knack for layering it, too.  I like this particular one because of the color combinations more than anything else, though.  And, those deep rose-hued flowers make me think of our lowcountry azaleas about now!  Come see this piece and other works by Sally currently on display in our shop.

Now These are Some Nice Tables!

What's your take on these two end tables?  For the life of me I can't decide - modern or rustic?  They're so sleek, but at the same time have a nice organic feel due to the gorgeous wood.  Of course, anything done by Van Dalen Design is versatile, so it's totally up to the person who's lucky enough to own them one day!  Come see these and other beautiful pieces by Neal Van Dalen.  Definitely one of a kind! 

Oh, to "Faire un Pique-nique" in the Fields of Provence!

I don't know about you, but to me nothing is more inviting than a picnic!  Especially one in the south of France, minus our lowcountry gnats and mosquitoes.  Naturally, I would have a bottle of red wine, a few baguettes, some fresh veggies, and artisanal cheese thrown about on my picnic blanket.  Pictured here is a Le Jacquard Francais cloth (of course!) which just so happens to come from the new spring "Provence" collection.  Take me there!!

Lovin' Our Locals!

I love featuring local designers, and it's always nice to occasionally give an overview of some of what we carry.  This photo is of my Sideshow Press display.  These are some of their individual cards.  Of course we also have some terrific notesets from them as well.  And to think, their design studio is just around the corner.  Truly Charleston!  (Mea culpa to Pancake and Franks, as I accidentally had one of their fun cards on the bottom shelf.)

We're Into the Vibe of Charleston Fashion Week!

Though we aren't a dress shop, we at LESESNE thought it would be fun to put a colorful dress in our window to celebrate Charleston Fashion Week.  This fantastically vibrant dress is by a local designer, Shelley Smith.  Isn't it just a kick?!  It's even better in person!  And, though Shelley is not a participant in this year's "Emerging Designer" competition, she is setting her goals for next year.  (Please excuse all the reflexion from the window - I was the amateur photographer on this one!)

Are You a List Maker? Here are a Couple of Sweet "Tweets" to Help You Out!

If you're like me, making lists helps get you through the week.  I think "writing it down" has become my mantra - from grocery lists to daily chores.  Well, now at least I'll have something pretty to write all those lists on.  Even though Snow and Graham already creates beautiful notesets, cards and wrapping paper, this is their new baby.  I'm showing the Tweets design here, but there are others are available.  Cute!

Gotta Love These Guys (and Gals)! They Make the Day Way More Fun! Enjoy St. Paddy's!

These are some of the friendly musicians who not only played in the St. Patrick's Day parade, but now are headed down to O'Malley's Irish Pub to join the bagpipers as they entertain the crowd.  They were so kind to let me take their photo!  And, better than that, they said that they were having a great time!  Love their spirit!

Look What We've Got Parading By the Shop! (Happy St. Paddy's!)

No, this is not King Street in Charleston, SC, but these are the types of dogs I saw parading by with their owners about an hour ago.  I had never seen an Irish Wolfhound before that moment, except on TV of course.  They were HUGE!  I'm assuming the five I saw had either attended Mass with their owners or participated in one of the St. Patrick's Day parades.  I'm definitely being entertained watching the human element, too - crazy green attire is the order of the day!

Tulips - A Sure Sign of Spring!

Isn't this just the happiest design?  Tulips are always one of the first signs of spring, and boy are we ready for it!  This is one of the latest patterns from Snow and Graham.  We've got the wrapping paper in the shop now, and will have the cards soon.  A gift wrapped in these bright oranges and pinks will surely put a smile on anyone's face.  But, don't forget, you can craft to your heart's content with such a colorful design, too!  (I can visualize a gorgeous picture frame myself.)  Come see.

We're Talking SERIOUSLY Spring!

As soon as I laid eyes on these new linens, spring fever set in.  And I mean big time!  Le Jacquard Francais comes out with a new line twice a year, and these are but small samples of their 2011 pieces.  Of course the way the photo stylists arrange all of the colors and accessories together makes everything even more inviting.  Those accessories give me great ideas, too.  We already have some of these linens in the shop, but I've ordered more colors.  Yippee!

Van Dalen Design Talent, Three Different Ways!

This window photo is such a good example of Neal Van Dalen's talent that I just had to post it again.  I don't think I could choose a favorite from these tables even if I had to!  We feel very fortunate to have Van Dalen Design represented exclusively in our shop.  One never knows what he'll be bringing in next, but one thing is certain, it will be unique! 

Remember When You Would Hear the Jingle of the Ice Cream Truck?

Do you remember the ice cream truck?  Whenever I hear one today I think back to my childhood.  As soon as the jingle was within earshot I was headed out the door (which was open to the screened porch of course, since we didn't have air-conditioning).  I always bought a "dreamsicle", a yummy vanilla on the inside, orange sherbert on the outside concoction on a stick - my favorite!  This card immediately makes me think back to those lazy summer days.  Thank you Snow and Graham!

Feelin' Beachy Yet?

LIving along the South Carolina coast is something I try to never take for granted.  If I did live inland, though, I would have fun living "beachy".  Le Jacquard Francais has designed this beautiful pattern, Escale Marine, in several colorways, but I prefer the natural look.  Doesn't it look great with the shells thrown on top?!  So, wherever you are, always remember that you can invoke a faraway ambiance just by using a few pieces.  Table dressing is an excellent way to start!

Shakin' it up With Le Jacquard Francais Napkins

I know I've posted a picture of these mini-vases before, but this time I decided to try something different.  I was a little low on my vases until the new order comes in and needed to fill in with something colorful.  The Le Jacquard Francais napkins filled the bill.  Now, I've decided to order some more of those, too.  It's always a nice feeling to change things, even if it's in a small way.  (Now if only I can get around to doing the same at home!)

Do You Ever Need This Excuse?

This card says it all.  I mean really, aren't there times when you just do NOT feel like getting someone a gift?!  Of course, it is best to give this to a good friend as they could absolutely relate to it.  This line of cards from 9 Spot Monk is terrific.  Not only are they eco-friendly, they "tell it like it is", and with humor to boot!

Contrasting Wood Tones Make Things Much More Interesting

I just love it when Neal (Van Dalen Design) does something unexpected with one of his pieces.  In this case, it's with a set of end tables.  Instead of keeping everything dark, he surprises us with a contrasting finish on the drawer pull.  I also like the exposed screws, which add even more interest to that handle.  One thing is certain with Neal's fabulous designs - expect the unusual.  Always fun!

Colorful but Sophisticated Linens - A Great Way to Go for Spring!

This is a fantastic new pattern from Le Jacquard Francais that I just got in the shop.  I recently posted this same pattern in turquoise, which is totally fun, but to me this colorway seems more sophisticated.  This brings me to the point of this blog.  Never be afraid of color.  The USE of it within a pattern or within your decor plays the biggest role.  So, enjoy the upcoming season and brighten your table up at the same time!

Now THIS is What I Call Festive!

Yesterday I told you I would post another new linen piece from Le Jacquard Francais.  Well, here it is!  Isn't it pretty?!  I wish you could actually see it "in person".  I envision this tablecloth on the patio for a springtime party, carried out with the whole turquoise and green theme, right down to some turquoise paper lanterns.  Come see!

So Proud of My Colorful New Flower Pots - Did Them all by Myself!

I love flowers, period!  Just looking at them, whether they're in a beautifully landscaped yard, a formal garden, or a simple pot brightens my day.  I've just planted my storefront pots, but I must thank Abide Awhile Garden Center in Mt. Pleasant for the inspiration.  (They had two huge, gorgeous pots done up with this same assortment of flowers.)  Now, if I can just keep them alive through the summer!

What a Pretty Spring LIneup from Le Jacquard Francais!

Yesterday was like Christmas all over again.  We just received some new linens from Le Jacquard Francais.  These are only a few of the new Tea Towels, and I'll be posting one of the new Tablecloths later.  The patterns are truly lovely and definitely put me in a "spring state of mind".  It's always fun to freshen up the shop.  Can't wait to order more!

Gotta Love Jewelry, Especially When it's by a Local Designer!

Ever have spring fever, but not the pocketbook to go all out for a new wardrobe?  Why not perk up what you've got with a great piece of jewelry?!  Our gorgeous jewelry from local designer Les Petites Perles is now on sale for 30% off.  These are a few examples of her high quality work.  Stop in and give yourself a treat!

Where I'll be Eating Dinner Tonight. Can't Wait for Those Fried Shrimp!

Eight years ago my husband and I built a home in McClellanville, SC, about 35 miles north of Charleston.  Our intent is to retire there one day.  But, until we do, we love to go for weekend getaways to enjoy the outdoors and be with the new friends we've met there.  This is a picture of our absolute favorite village restaurant, TW Graham's, which is locally owned and run.  If ever you want some fantastic fried shrimp (LOCAL!) or homemade pie + a laid back atmosphere, I would suggest making the short trip up Hiway 17.  You'll love it!

How to be the Hostess With the Mostest

First of all, if you're going to serve drinks or appetizers on the coffee table, for heaven's sake put them on a tray.  It will definitely make a nicer impression.  Secondly, why not use a beautiful handmade wooden tray?  This one is by none other than our own Van Dalen Design.  It is made of Cumaru, Ipe, and Cherry woods and will certainly have your guests talking.  It is just one among many of the designs we have in the shop, starting at a great price of $135!

Color and More Color. Why not Add it to Your LIfe?!

If anyone knows color, it's Le Jacquard Francais.  (Of course, the great bowl from Middle Kingdom Porcelain is a whole 'nother story!)  These beautiful linen and cotton napkins would work with any dining room setting, be it formal or informal.  There are so many wonderful colors in the pattern that you just can't go wrong!  I'm thinking I would use these to set off green.  What would you do?

Freshen Up Your Home for Spring with a New Scent!

We just received some great new candles in the shop from Voluspa and I've already burned two of the testers.  I loved the one I tried out yesterday, which was "French Cade and Lavender".  Today, I'm burning the "Capri Fig Frangipani".  Now, I don't know which I like the best!  Nevertheless, whether it's here in a business or within your home, a fresh new scent will lift your spirits, especially with spring fast approaching!

It's So Hard to Say You're Sorry! Sycamore Street Press Can Help.

Ever at a loss for words when it comes to an apology?  (I become instantly tongue-tied or put my foot in my mouth.)  So to alleviate this problem, why not send an adorable card such as this one from Sycamore Street Press?  The recipient will start smiling before they read a single word you've written! 

Add a Touch of the Organic to Your Decor !

Whether your style is contemporary or traditional, it's always a smart idea to add a touch of the organic here and there.  This gorgeous, handmade porcelain "Clam" bowl from Heather Knight of Element Clay Studio would enhance any space.  In addition, her pieces are food safe, so how cool would it be to use this for serving something such as pickled shrimp?!  Stop in soon to see other works from this talented regional artist.

Simple, Clean LInes are Perfect With Any Decor.

I've had my eye on this piece by Van Dalen Design for a while now.  It is so sleek, yet has some really cool cut-out detail on the legs. Of course, by now I should know to expect that from Neal's body of work.  This sideboard (or sofa table) would suit any decor due to its style and the warm coloring of the wood.  Stop in soon to see this and other of his unique pieces!

Colorful Bracelets? No, Fun Napkin Rings!

At first glance all of my customers think these are brightly colored bracelets.  Bracelets should be so cute!  These are actually fun napkin rings from our favorite French linen company, Le Jacquard Francais.  The different colors were specifically created to pick up the hues in their large variety of table linens.  Personally, I would get a kick out of using several of these colors on my table at once!

LOVE IS IN THE AIR for our AWESOME customers!

I know we've posted this great card by Dude and Chick before, but this is just to tell our customers how AWESOME we think you are.  We hope your significant others love the AWESOME cards and the AWESOME gifts you purchased from us for Valentine's Day.  Many thanks.  We love you all!

Yet Another Great Valentine Card from Dodeline Design!

Okay, this one says it all!  Of course the fun graphics by Sarah Early, creator of Dodeline Design, make it even more fun.  (The monkeys have a rather "cupid" look, don't you think?)  What would we do without Sarah, our local guru when it comes to cards with a modern touch.  Come in soon to see this and others from her collection.

How About a Valentine with Doughnuts? Love Snow and Graham's Idea!

 How about skipping the traditional and trying something different this Valentine's Day?  Snow and Graham has given you the perfect opening with their adorable doughnut card.  We all love chocolate, but beautifully decorated doughnuts or pastries would also win your significant other's heart.  Tuck this precious card inside the box and watch the reaction!