Maison News

Baggallini

2012-01-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

It’s around that time when we all start planning our summer vacations… why not kick it off by picking up a Baggallini bag or tote? Baggallini Inc. was founded in 1995 by two veteran flight attendants, Dixie Powers and Ann Simmons, who recognized a need for organization when traveling. They also noted that organization did not mean that fashion had to be taken out of the equation. Their goal of a stylish, but highly functionable bag has been reached. Bottom line, Baggallini simply pledges to keep your peace of mind while traveling. Whether you’re rushing to the gate before your flight leaves, or getting in line to climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower, your tickets and camera will be in their own little compartment, safe and zippered away. The bags are available in many different colors from vibrant to subtle tones, along with alternative styles, including clutches, totes, and cross-body designs. They are also comprised of lightweight and water resistant fabric, ideal for any weather. So why don’t you come in and have a cheeky look-see? You never know, Baggallini may be all the inspiration you’ll need to plan that Argentinean getaway you’ve been dreaming of…

Heather Johnson

2012-01-16T11:54:00.000-08:00

California College of the Arts graduate and designer Heather Johnson, has always found it ever so fascinating how people all over the world choose to adorn themselves in one way or another. That is why she chose to become part of the “adorner” world. In fact, it was this fascination that was the inspiration behind her businesses’ name, Primal Curiosities. In the past year, Heather’s hand-made line has taken off due to her darling, but cheeky hand warmers and cowl neck scarves. Did I mention they always come sprinkled with vintage buttons? I tease Heather and call her a fiber “snob,” however it is something very special and somewhat rare. She refuses to use anything but all natural fibers including some of her favorites, alpaca, merino wool and silk blends. Taking these modern adornments and adding a vintage flare of buttons seems to really be what draws people in. Both items when worn make anyone’s life cozy as well as effortless in everyday functions. Tasks such as texting and typing are easily done while wearing the hand warmers and the cowl neck scarves instantly envelop the neckline, not having to deal with loose ends as in other scarves. I rightly advocate coming into the shop and having a look-see. The weather is about to turn a bit chillier and Valentine’s Day is coming up….

Lisa B. Socks

2011-11-26T11:23:00.000-08:00

Those tootsies of ours are often the last things we choose to accessorize, but why should that be the case? Once people catch a glimpse of the Lisa B socks, they are quick to modify this decision. Made for both men and women, these socks created from a wool and cashmere blend, are the coziest gift you could give this holiday season. Their fun but classic textiles range from striped, fair isle, or ribbed, to argyle and polka dots. Not only are they all machine-washable, the women’s line also has the special treat of coming in a knee-high length and from personal experience, these are the cutest accessories for every fall or winter season. Paired with tights, leggings, or a skirt or dress, these knee-highs put a modish twist on the conventional “school –girl” look. Lisa and her husband Rem started their chic but down-to-earth footwear line a little more than a decade ago, and people can’t seem to get enough! The couple continues to design and craft their footwear line from their home in rural Pennsylvania. Now, let’s give your own or a friend’s toes something to cuddle up in this season! Just a tip…. come have a look-see soon. Lisa B. socks never stays on the shelves for too long!

Bella Notte Linens

2011-11-21T17:33:00.000-08:00

Bella Notte Linens has created magically beautiful products, from sweet summer dresses, to cozy, but oh so very chic bedding. I literally squealed when we unpacked these boxes (my co-worker Heather will certainly vouch for that!) and made up the bed that sits in the back of our store.

Bella Notte prides themselves on their use of low-impact fabrics, meaning they have low impact on our environment from the selecting of raw material (including organic cotton and hemp) to producing each and every piece. What’s more, Bella Notte makes sure to use low-impact/non toxic fiber reactive dyes, making these the best man-made high quality and environmentally conscious dyes around.

These luxurious linens have everyone swooning. Maybe it’s their intermingling of rich color tones, including “Pebble”, and “Amethyst,” “Sea Glass,” or “Petal,” that makes designing a whole new bedroom so enchanting. It also could be their amazingly soft textures that range from their classic delicate linen, or their more fanciful ones of velvet, lace, or satin. Either way, Bella Notte (meaning beautiful night in Italian) offers a selection that delights any style. So let me ask you, how can you possibly resist? I certainly can’t. We spend a good third of our life engaging in sleep, cuddled up in bed. Why not make it an experience to remember? Come take a look-see, and you’ll see what I mean. I think Its time to transform that bedroom of yours…

Le Palais des Thes

2011-11-15T13:03:00.001-08:00

Having friends over for an afternoon cup of tea is an elegant and warming tradition that should be cherished and continually rediscovered. Francois-Xavier appreciated what tea represented, as well as its many promising rich flavors and wanted to share these pleasures with the people of Paris. So in 1987, he opened up his first little boutique, Le Palais des Thes, in hopes that the Parisians, who have exceptional taste and style, would embrace his passion for tea. 24 years later, with 25 more boutiques warming the streets in countries from Japan, to Israel, to Belgium and Slovenia Les Palais des Thes, seems to make the cut. The unique selection includes more than 100 green, black, oolong, pu-erh, and rooibos tea creations, certainly something to be impressed by. Don’t you think it’s about time to invite a few friends over to share a cupp’a tea? Stop by Maison d’etre before your darling little tea party and have a look-see at our selection of these special Parisian creations.

In2green

2011-11-08T00:04:00.001-08:00

With the temperatures suddenly dipping, nothing sounds better than curling up with a blanket and a hot cup of cocoa for the night. In2green blankets can help out with this! Their heavy cotton feel is exactly what caught my eye as soon as we unpacked them and placed them on our shelves. “Green” as the company says, is not just a color to them, but a representation of the what lifestyle they want to bring to homes all over the world. In2green works with sustainable materials such as using recycled knit products, making new land development unnecessary and for minimal usage of water, as well as chemicals and dyes. Their products are entirely “sweatshop free” and made only in the United States and Central America. In2green also does their part in helping younger generations fight for a cleaner planet, including the organization, Leave No Trace, truly making this company wholeheartedly “green.” Their vibrant textiles and colors also help the cause in being one of the best blankets and children beanies we’re carrying this season. Whether it’s the polka dots, zigzags, or the Moroccan designs that draw you in, or the rich colors of persimmon oranges, avocado greens, or deep chocolate browns, you are sure to fall weak for this product! Nevertheless, I urge you to come have a look-see for yourself!

B K R Glass Bottles Silicon Sleeve

2011-10-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

Founded only two years ago, bkr Bottle Company is the new “in” thing and spreading fast, for a few reasons. Firstly, the bottle is made from glass; this is not only healthy for the earth, but also for the drinker! The glass, as well as the sleeve and cap are 100% recyclable and dishwasher safe. Not only do they fit the standard cup holder, they also come in radiant colors with fun names, including, “pop,” “bubble,” “pool,” “ripe,” and “fog.” Being featured in InStyle Magazine’s gift guide this holiday season proves people’s newfound love for this product.

What's more, bkr is philanthropic. When bought, a portion in initiatives is invested to help fight the global water crisis, bringing clean water to communities who don’t have any. The founders Tal and Kate, bring their clean product to the people and in doing so, they are lending a hand in helping the world around them. Why not join them? Their motto says it all, “clean design, clean body, clean earth. All clean everything.” We urge you come have a look-see at this fresh new product, we’ll be stocked all season long!

2011-10-22T11:39:00.001-07:00

These adorable tea towels caught my eye straight away. With a company made up of only 7 people and 13 sewing machines, based in a small fishing village in Cornwall, England, everything about Poppy Treffry seem oh so very special and charming. Each towel is screen printed right in Cornwall, featuring whimsical etchings, (initially hand-drawn by Ms. Poppy herself!) of teacups, sailboats, dogs, and “oyster catchers.” Each towel is 100% unbleached cotton and machine washable, making these towels not just darling, but also low maintenance, how lovable is that!? Being inexpensive adds charm to their repertoire, simply ideal for the holidays or a house-warming gift, don’t you think? If not absolutely convinced just yet, we welcome you to come take a look-see for yourself…

Ayala Bar

2011-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:00

Elegance has met industrial in one of our new jewelry lines, Ayala Bar. Assimilating diverse materials from glass beads, Swarovski crystals, fabric, to mineral stones and non-precious metals, this talented Israeli designer Ayala, handcrafts everything from earrings, and bracelets, to brooches, rings and necklaces. Each bejeweled piece is truly lovely and creates a certain magical essence when put on. Instantly, I was brought back to childhood memories of playing dress-up in my mother’s high heels, (5 sizes to big) and layering myself in her beautiful costume jewelry.

Each piece is intricately detailed, and I honor Ayala for the absolute exquisiteness she captivates in her jewelry. So if you’re either striving to bring pure awe by giving that perfect gift, or to just play “dress up” again, come and take a look-see at this new line…..

http://www.ayalabar.com/V4/site/main.html

2010-07-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Ice tongs and shadow. My little pony. Taken by Dare Porter

Head Massagers from Kikkerland

2010-07-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

Relax and enjoy the tingly sensation of Kikkerland's head massager also known as the 'orgasmatron'! This simple but effective metal tool will tickle you surprised with its soft-tipped stainless-steel arms! Scratch yourself or a friend for that fun feeling. For $5.00 this aluminum massager makes for a great pick me up. And with several colors to choose from, you can pick your favorite one...or two!

Blue Bottle Coffee Co.

2010-04-05T16:33:00.000-07:00

An Oakland based coffee roaster, delivering only the freshest coffee less than 48 hours out of the roaster to ensure peak flavor. Using only top quality organic, pesticide-free, shade grown coffee beans from around the world, and brewed with extreme care, Blue Bottle Coffee is hailed as “The Ultimate Cup of Coffee” by Bay Area enthusiasts.

At Maison d’Etre you can purchase half-pound bags of whole coffee beans, all best brewed by drip or French press. Orders are placed every Tuesday and Saturday, delivered within one day, to ensure the freshest blends. Environmentally responsible production & packaging includes compostable/recyclable coffee bags

Blue Bottle Coffee Co., inspired by and named after the first coffee shop in Central Europe, The Blue Bottle and its humble beginnings. (History as found on Bluebottlecoffee.net)

In the late 1600s, the Turkish army swept across much of Eastern and Central Europe, arriving at Vienna in 1683. Besieged and desperate the Viennese needed an emissary who could pass through Turkish lines to get a message to the nearby Polish troops. Franz George Kolshitsky, who spoke Turkish and Arabic, took on the assignment disguised in a Turkish uniform. After many perilous close calls, Kolshitsky completed his valiant deed, returning to give the Viennese the news of the Poles' imminent rescue of their city. Kolshitsky was handsomely rewarded by the mayor of Vienna for his role in repelling Turkish soldiers, with which he purchased the Turkish coffee left from the invaders and opened the historic Blue Bottle coffee shop.

Catstudio: Riviera Bags

2010-03-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

Catstudio, a husband and wife owned company based in Petaluma California, delivers a wonderful line of sturdy spring totes and practical pouches. Riviera Bags are a collaborative effort between Catstudio and Sabala, a non-profit society teaching widows and economically challenged women traditional skills and tribal crafts, to empower and generate income. These chic & casual totes, 50% Jute 50% Cotton, are hand woven and stitched with care lined inside with a vibrant yellow floral cotton fabric. Riviera Bags are available in 2 sizes with vertical and horizontal striped patterns in Blue/White, Red/White, and Multicolor.

Simplicity with Function FORLIFE Teaware

2010-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Designed with everyday function in mind, FORLIFE has created a long lasting line of teaware that will stay beautiful and fresh for life. Established in 1994 by Masa Fujii, a ceramic designer and entrepreneur, FORLIFE has developed new lines of glass and ceramic teapots, cups, and infusers to fit your every tea need. Add a splash of color to your space with the vibrant spectrum of teapots and cups in the Hospitality, Newleaf, Curve, Serenity Teaware Collections.

Hospitality Teaware: White ceramic teapots (16 oz.) and cups (9 oz.) with innovative silicone sleeves and tea spouts. Spouts will not chip or break and the silicone cup grip allows you to comfortably hold your hot tea.

Newleaf Teaware: Larger clear glass tea mugs (13 oz.) with stainless steel infuser and lid. Unique double- wall glass keeps tea warmer longer.

Curve Teaware: Brilliant teapots in two sizes (45 oz & 24 oz.) with infuser and matching mugs (12 oz.) with silicone grips, safe for dishwasher and microwave.

Serenity Teaware: White ceramic Modern Asian style teapot with infuser (4 cups) microwave/diswasher safe.

Colors available: Black Graphite, Lime, Lavender, Mandarin, Paprika, Red, Sage, Turquoise, and White

Silicone sleeves and infuser

La Chambaware

2010-01-06T11:32:00.000-08:00

La Chamba, nestled in the heart of Colombia near the active Ruiz volcano and Magdalena River, has for generations produced some of the world’s finest handmade clay cookware. The large deposits of sandy volcanic clay, that surround the village, provide exceptionally thermal shock resistant pottery. La Chamba cookware is burnished before firing to create a smooth sealed surface without the use of glazes. All cookware is black in color due to the final step in the firing process, “smoking”, where the white hot clay is smothered with dried leaves and covered, resulting in the darker pigment.

This superb clay cookware is long lasting, durable and heat resilient allowing for use on the stove top, in the oven, and the microwave. Casseroles, deep dishes, bowl, plates and pans are available in a variety of sizes to accommodate any meal needs. Each piece is smooth to the touch and ready for use immediately.

Optional initial preparation before use suggests filling cookware ¾ with water and place in 400F oven for 30 mins.

Envirosax

2009-12-11T12:29:00.000-08:00

Envirosax creates chic, affordable and sustainable bags in various designs, colors and patterns that will inspire you to ditch those polluting plastics for a better, smarter bag. Founded in 2004 this Austrailian company is committed to operating under environmentally sustainable principles and spreading their ecologically conscious philosophy. Using renewable and recyclable resources where possible, Envirosax provides a compelling alternative to plastic bags. Envirosax bags are lightweight, portable, durable, waterproof and holds the equivalent to two supermarket plastic bags with their reinforced seams.

And, as if these sweet bags aren't great enough, you can feel good knowing Envirosax donates a percentage of its sales to charities and non-profit organizations dedicated to the preservation of the environment. Find out more at their website: www.envirosax.com

Dermond Peterson Textiles

2009-11-30T12:46:00.000-08:00

Dermond Peterson designs fresh and functional textiles to complement your everyday style at home. Founded in 2001 by two sisters, this Milwaukee studio produces classic motifs with a twist. DP uses "fine-art" techniques to block-print by hand on high quality linens and cottons with environmentally sensitive water-based inks. Natural linen table runners and napkins liven your living space with marine images from the Seaside Collection including red and black coral print, black and teal nautilus print, aqua seahorses, and black mussels andoysters. The Flora Collection features gold and olive bamboo on white and brown linen, chartreuse ginkgo leafs, and tropical green palm fronds.

Napkins 21"x21"

Runners 17"x90" & 17"x70"

Exceptional linen and cotton fabric using environmentally sensitive, water-based inks that are free of solvents, lead and heavy-metals. Everything is washable and superbly color-fast

Metal Pointus

2009-11-24T23:56:00.000-08:00

Metal Pointus, literally translates to ‘Edgy-Metal’, enhances the natural beauty of metal through daring, bold and elaborate designs that play on architectural features and negative spaces created by the innovative combinations. Tin, Bronze and Silver are manipulated to produce the decadent Pointus line, created by designer/artist Bernard Bouhnik. The Paris based jeweler, founded 15 years ago, features five collections; Absolute Privilege (contemporary), Dazzled (innovative), Sweet and Sour (sensuous), Remember Forever (cutting edge) and Flagrant Impacts (limited editions), that introduce striking bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings and cuffs perfect for every occasion. Layers of intricately crafted silver-plated beads, disks, chains, and other striking shapes convey Bouhnik’s unique style with impressive functionality and flexibility. The addition of Swarovski crystals, pate de verre glass and custom beads, takes Pointus jewelry to another level of luxury.

Select styles available at Maison d’Etre while they last!

Ibride trays

2009-11-16T16:32:00.000-08:00

Astonishingly ornate images and intricate laser cut designs highlight Ibrides luxurious and fanciful trays as more than serving platters but impressive works of art. Each design can easily transform from tray to wall art enhancing any room with their evocative images. Ibride creates high pressure laminate trays of regal animals portraits from the hummingbird to the monkey adorned in lavish attire reminiscent of 18^th century royalty. Trays are waterproof and heat resistant to ensure a long successful reign. Ibride trays come in over ten different prints that will no doubt captivate and humble its viewers. Sizes range from 61x23cm to 59x40cm. Made in France.

Molly M Designs

2009-11-11T12:20:00.000-08:00

Molly M Designs brings a refreshing architectural yet organic aesthetic to sustainable jewelry. Molly, a professionally trained architecture graduate, uses a laser cutter to print her computer generated designs on bamboo, birch and acrylic surfaces. Molly M Designs creates innovative jewelry drawing inspiration from nature, geometric shapes and laser cutting techniques. Materials like bamboo and reused wood scraps from a local cabinet shop are combined with suede, felt, and wool that are collected from army surplus, secondhand clothing and warehouse surplus to promote sustainable tenets. Check out more molly m designs including the Lines and Circles, Botanicals, Geometric and Layers collections at:

mollymdesigns.com

Patyka

2009-10-29T12:01:00.000-07:00

Patyka is a luxurious French brand of certified organic cosmetics and body care. Incorporating rare botanical extracts, Patyka concocts natural serums, lotions, scrubs and oils that leave your skin healthier, softer and rejuvenated. Stop by to pick up Patyka serum, lotion, and Diffusion Line products.

Patyka serum can be used 2-3 times a week as a restorative treatment on face, hair, nails and cuticles. Enjoy healthier youthful skin with the unique combination of essential oils to boost your skin's ability to regenerate, nourish, hydrate and protect itself.

Patyka body lotion is rich in organic ingredients leaving your skin nourished and protected with a light floral fragrance.

The Diffusion Line is certified organic face and body care that includes: organic shower gel, massage oil, body cream, and shampoo in an array of delightful aromas. Enjoy these high end formulas at reasonable prices suitable for kids and grown ups.

Poketo for your pocket

2009-10-19T11:12:00.000-07:00

These limited edition Poketo wallets feature unique designs by independent artists/designers/illustrators. Made of durable double layer vinyl each wallet includes 3 slots for cards, dollar slot, and change purse. Wallets measure 8.5” x 3.75” and folds to fit most pockets. Inspiring designs include vibrant spectrums and provocative images by: Lili Piri, Sidney Pink, Devilrobots, Cole Gerst, Betsy Walton, Sam Hoh, Eveline Tarunadjaja, among others. Along with your new organizer comes a small quarter-size matching Poketo pin.

Sweep Dreams Brooms

2009-10-12T11:13:00.000-07:00

Sweep your way to a happier day!

Sweep Dreams will whisk you away to tropical Thailand with their hand-woven, beautifully crafted brooms. Aqua, Red, Lime, Yellow and Pink are just some of the colors that make these Sweep Dreams brooms a visual sensation. Liven up your kitchen, patio or storage room with a vibrant 52" sweeping broom with bamboo handle. For smaller chores opt for a convenient hand-held whisk. All brooms are made from natural renewable sources of sorghum grass and bamboo with non-toxic colors. Steel wires inside the weave reinforce the body for long wear and tear. Sweep Dreams employs socially and ecologically responsible manufacturing processes to create their brooms and whisks.

Sweep Dream brooms will not only leave your home brighter and cleaner but eco-friendlier too!

2009-10-05T11:25:00.000-07:00

Chilewich has created new pressed vinyl place-mats and table runners in a modern chic yet playful dot design. Going beyond the traditional weaving textiles, Chilewich has revolutionizing a dated manufacturing process to produce these durable and easy to clean mats. The overlapping dot pattern is reminiscent of fine linen with the practicality for everyday use. Colors include orange, yellow, pink, green, black, white and grey.

Vinyl is easily cleaned with soap and water

Careful not to expose to heat

On Time and Lookin' Fine

2009-09-28T10:28:00.000-07:00

These innovative silicone watches are perfect for work and play. Too late has proliferated the European market and has found its way into the heart of Rockridge. This contemporary time keeper comes in two sizes and nearly every color in the spectrum. The digital face makes it easy to read and the shock proof, water proof and anti-scratch design make these colorful wonders "adaptable to any given situation and personal taste" (too2late.com)
Come try them out today!

2009-09-19T13:43:00.000-07:00