Believe it or not, I’ve just discovered Etsy.  (I know!  What is wrong with me?!)  Granted I heard about it ages ago, but I never slowed down long enough to peek for myself.  Amazing!  This is an excellent resource for vintage finds and handcrafted wares.  Take a look…

Sources 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

This store is an absolute treasure.  Capitol Craftsman & Romance Jewelers is a remarkable resource for handcrafted gifts that are made in the US.  Gorgeous jewlery, ceramics, carved wood, blown glass…  the list goes on!  What I probably love most about this store is the sense that I am connecting with each artisan through their creative work.  Truly beautiful.

Capitol Craftsman & Romance Jewelers are located at 16 & 18 North Main Street in Concord, and can be found online here.   

Just tuning in?  Welcome to another post in a series related to shopping locally for the holidays.  Next up, bona fide green goods (visit them in person at 35 South Main Street in Concord, or online here).  Bona fide is an exceptional resource for all things green and sustainable.  From jewlery and clothing to kitchenware and gifts, bona fide is chockfull of stuff that will make you feel good.  Want to know how you can be greener?  Visit their website today to learn how. 

Another phenomenal local resource is Cobblestone Design Company.  Located at 89 Fort Eddy Road in Concord, Cobblestone is my go-to florist.  These gentlemen have a remarkable sense of style, and merchandise their store beautifully.  Whether you are looking for a special gift, floral arrangement, or simply a retail pick-me-up, Cobblestone is worth the visit.  Access their website here - these pictures hardly do them justice!

One of my favorite places to shop (ever!)  is KAZA, located at 202 South Main Street in Concord.  Aside from being an absolute sweetheart, the owner is a creative genius.  KAZA is a great place to go for unique finds including crafts by local artisans, vintage items, and generally fabulous decor.  Visit her website here. 

‘Tis the season for shopping.  So why not shop local?  A fantastic find for holiday (or any day) shopping is Apotheca, located at 24 Main Street in Goffstown, New Hampshire.  This adorable little nugget is a cafe, florist, and gift shop rolled up in one.  I love their organic/ funky style, not to mention the local artisans they support.  Be sure to visit them in person, or online here.

Normally I wouldn’t say this, but I love quizzes!  Well, the one’s involving color, style, and psychology at least    Pittsburg Paint is currently offering a fun color personality test on their website.   Of course it’s not the end all – be all, but it’s definitely a great way to stir up the creative juices.  Feel free to  take the quiz often, your answers are likely to change – especially in different seasons. 

Originally, I was “Pop Art”.  The 2nd time around was “Tapestry/Mosaic”. 

Where do you score?

KAZA, local design shop and entreprenuer extraordinare, was recently chosen NH Hampshire Magazine’s “Editor’s Pick for Shabby Chic Revival!”  But wait – there’s more!  Home Accents Today (a national publication) also named KAZA as one of the 50 Retailers for 2010!  (I am so proud, I am busting!)

Located at 202 South Main Street in Concord, KAZA is an absolute gem.  Stop by or visit www.kazadesigns.com to see for yourself what all the buzz is about.  You’ll be a raving fan too!

KAZA:  Recycle.  Trade Fair.  Live Funky.

While innocently perusing pages of Facebook, I was quickly distracted by an advertisement for DecorDreamHome.com.  Since I’m such a sucker for beautiful things, I couldn’t help but investigate further.  The pillows!  The accessories!  Very exciting…

Where do I begin?  Just the thought of writing this post has my mind racing with excitement!!!  That, or perhaps I’ve had too much coffee.  Either way, Target is a fantastic resource for just about everything.  Rather than walking you through, aisle by aisle, I will do my best to focus on that which is most relevant.

The images below reflect a lot of my own personal style.  Aren’t they fabulous?!  If you happen to disagree, don’t count them out alltogether.  Between their retail stores and online, Target has a huge selection of bedding, lighting, window treatments, home decor, tableware, and the list goes on…