Out And About: An Eclectic Garden Center

On my latest 'out and about', I visited Gerard's in Lincoln, Ma., a favorite destination at any season.  With its eclectic mix of home accessories and botanicals, it guarantees a feast for the senses. Combining plants with elegantly merchandised home accessories, Gerard's provides a nice departure from the cold feel of some modern retailers and it's a visual delight.  After 16 years in business, Gerard stays true to his unique aesthetics growing a loyal clientele that appreciates a classical mix of European and American styles.  I, for one, am a huge fan and look forward to any opportunity to stop in and check out this shop.   Take a look at some of my favorite vignettes:

 Gerard's is located here.  Make sure you mention that you read about it on Cocoon's blog whenever you decide to check it out.

Enjoy!

Out And About: West Palm Beach Antique Row & Cocoon's First Reader Giveaway

While vacationing in Florida a few weeks ago,  one of my must-dos was to walk West Palm Beach's Antique Row.  Off season, this  street is relatively quiet and the stores are stocked with very unique pieces and amazing finds.  One can snatch up anything period from Pucci pants, to art deco lamps,  to even--oversized snowmen.  Take a look at three of my very favorite stores and enter to win a set of vintage bracelets and a Diane von Furstenberg scarf.

Palm Beach Vintage

  First up,  Palm Beach Vintage is a  shop filled with one of a kind designer clothing and accessories.  The patterns and colors of the past are truly a visual treat.  Take a look:

Cashmere Buffalo

Next shop on my tour is Cashmere Buffalo. Charlene, the owner, has a keen eye for vintage glamour, retro jewelry and modern textiles.  Take a look:

Dolce

Last stop on my Antique Row tour, Dolce, has a great collection of 20th century lighting, eclectic curiosities and even a pair of oversized snow sculptures.

Many thanks to Cashmere Buffalo and Palm Beach Vintage for contributing to Cocoon's first reader giveaway(s).  To see photos of the gifts look below. To enter to win leave a comment about this post.   Please read the contest details below:

  1. Gift Description- Set of 4 bracelets in Bakelite, enamel and brass and a vintage scarf.
  2. Entry-Enter to win by leaving a comment (become a Facebook fan for an additional entry).
  3. Deadline-5 days from date of post.
  4. Selection- Winner chosen through random drawing.
  5. Notification- Winner will be notified via email.
  6. Delivery- Item(s) will be shipped via UPS Ground.
  7. Acceptance- Winner must respond within 48 hours of notification otherwise a new winner will be drawn.

Who will be CHD's [first] lucky winner ???  It could very well be YOU.  Leave your comment below and good luck!

 

 

 

Out And About: Gambs Seconde Nature, Paris

I first spotted and was drawn to Gambs from across a Paris street while exploring the city on foot.  Its amazing window display and selection of vases, lighting and botanicals were spellbinding.  Only upon entering the store, did I realize that the exhibited plants weren't real.  Never had I seen such realistic faux botanicals.  Merchandised among super cool lighting and home accessories,  in avant-garde vases these botanicals were a sight to behold.  Take a look at yet another favorite Parisian retail experience:

So would you fake it (when it comes to flowers) if they looked this good?!

 

Out And About: Merci

The first shop I visited in Paris was Merci.   This first ever charitable store is an artfully merchandised collection of clothing, housewares, furniture and accessories. Designers such as Stella McCarthy and Yves St. Laurent worked with the creators of Merci, Marie France Cohen and her husband (known for the children's line Bonpoint),  to transform shopping into an unique philanthropic experience. Portions of the profits benefit charitable causes.  Two cafes offer charcuteries, amazing coffee, Parisian sweets in an relaxed atmosphere, although the patrons’ excitement is palpable as one walks through the store.  I was jumping out of my skin, loving every bit of it!   Take a tour of Merci through my lens.

 

Out And About: Suzuki Bean

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: