A recent trip to Fastachi in Watertown, MA, reminded me just how much I love that store. Filled with gourmet nut mixes, artisan chocolates, dried fruits and hard candies it's a snacker's dream. Fastachi's new logo and packaging make their treats great gifts. Above, my favorite nut mix and below, a few goodies I can't wait to share with friends.
I get very excited when new shops open in my neighborhood, especially if they are unique small businesses. Suzuki Bean is just that. It's owned and operated by Joji, a photo stylist, who has an eye for detail and a love for repurposed items. She fills her store with jewelry, furniture, tableware and art, all of which is either someone's past treasure or originally handmade. The arranged mini vignettes that display her wares make shopping a real visual treat. Take a look:
On a recent trip to Mahoney's Garden Center in Brighton (where most of my tree ornaments come from) I found more of them to fall in love with. Take a look.
This time of year one can really adorn one's home with temporary, eye-catching decorations. More is best in most cases. Remember, however, that holiday decorations should be an extension of your decor, so buy items that coordinate with your space and place them with harmony in mind. Drape ornaments on wall sconces, around your chandeliers, off your staircase railings, across your mantels. Start early so you can both enjoy and extend this special season that seems to fly by.
Recently I attended the opening of Patch NYC in Boston's South End. The shop is filled with antique treasures, custom jewelry, sketched art, pottery and colorful textiles, all of which have unique details that exude a sense of vintage glamour and intrigue. The two owner/designers of Patch NYC, John Ross and Darn Carney, have created a sensual shopping experience via fragrant candles, textural objects and embellished jewelry. It's as though one stepped back in time while surrounded with modern design. A must see. Hours vary so call ahead. Patch NYC is in The Courtyard at 46 Waltham Street, Boston.
Congratulations Patch NYC!