THE LOCAL ARTISAN'S GUIDE TO FATHER'S DAY GIFTS - 2024

This year for The Local Artisan Guide’s Father’s Day gift recommendations we asked some fathers what they would like to get as gifts then we researched and matched artisanal brands that fit our ethos (and dads would love). What made it easier for us this year is that we were heavily inspired by our annual trip upstate New York to Kingston, where we visited the “Field & Supply” Spring Market. Field & Supply is a heavily curated modern makers market that spotlights local brands in categories of apparel, accessories, home decor, beauty & wellness, jewelry and more. As we explored the beautiful tented grounds located right on the picturesque Hudson River, we were greatly inspired by the local brands and the stories of their makers. The different cuisines of the food stalls made for a great day escape from the city. We gladly picked some of their makers for our Father’s Day gift guide from their new online shop to make it easy for you to shop artisanal gifts for dad. We encourage you greatly to check out the Field & Supply site and possibly visit their outdoor markets, which will certainly inspire you to shop local and artisanal, especially for dear old dad (or any dad figure in your life).

A view of Field & Supply in upstate NY in Kingston along the beautiful Hudson River.

THE BIG GREEN EGG 10” MINI CHARCOAL KAMADO GRILL & SMOKER IN GREEN

For generations fathers have loved grilling on the iconic Big Green Egg. A grill was a popular Father’s Day choice from those dads we asked what they would like, so we chose the Big Green Egg is now available in a mini 10 inch form that makes it easy to take it on picnics, your apartment balcony, vacations, boating, camping and more! What makes the Big Green Egg in mini form so special is featured in it’s copy:

“The Big Green Egg is the highest quality, most versatile and simplest-to-use outdoor cooker available, offering more cooking options than all other conventional cookers combined. Grill, roast, smoke, sear and bake the EGG does all this and more!

  1. Quick and easy to start - reaches cooking temperature and is ready to use in minutes

  2. Precisely control the temperature by easily adjusting the patented air flow systems. The calibrated temperature gauge provides precise readings from 150 to 750F.

  3. An EGG retains heat and moisture so well that foods don’t dry out. Your food is naturally tastier because the EGG is a completely natural way to cook, and youll appreciate the difference at your first bite.

  4. The Big Green Egg is fueled by 100% natural hardwood for superb performance and flavor. Your food will have a natural and wholesome quality without any chemical aftertaste.

  5. Best-In-Class limited lifetime warranty your investment is protected by a successful company with a worldwide reputation for unmatched customer service.

  6. Weight: 39 lbs”

HAPPY BOARD, THE CLASSIC CHARCUTERIE

What was another popular request from dads? Meat! So we recommend “Happy Boards”, a charcuterie shop located in the Lower East Side, NY that offers an array of charcuterie boards. You can go to their website and order the charcuterie board of your choice. We like “The Classic Charcuterie” that includes: Truffle Pecorino, Gouda, Triple Cream Brie, genoa salami, spicy coppa, fig jam, herb-infused honey, mixed nuts, caperberries, seasonal dried and fresh fruits, and seasonal vegetables. Includes a box of assorted crackers (optional). Designed to serve 2-3 people. If you are not in New York City, many places offer a variation of what Happy Boards offers as we advise it is always best to shop local.

FIELD + SUPPLY, HAND-PAINTED KRAFT SPIRAL NOTEBOOK

Field + Supply offers the carefully crafted objects from WMS & CO., a brand that offers everyday objects elevated by design and influenced by history. We think dad would like this Kraft notebook to be used as a journal or someplace to keep his notes and thoughts. “The artist’s way is to have a little notebook always at hand, ready to accept ideas big and small. Each of these Kraft cardstock-covered notebooks is a unique work of sweetly naïve modern art, hand-painted, and hand-bound on a vintage press in a small Iowa studio. Spiral bound with burnished copper wire. 50 pages of thick bright white uncoated paper stock. 7.5 x 9.75". Ruled.”

FIELD + SUPPLY, ROAD TO NOWHERE, MEN’S SANTOS JACKET

Field + Supply offers the apparel collection of “Road to Nowhere”, a sustainable clothing brand for men and women located in Montauk, NY where the clothes are effortlessly stylish, comfortable, and ethically produced. We think the “Santos Jacket” will bring dad’s style level up ten fold. Made in Los Angeles, the Santos Jacket was designed from a favorite vintage painter's coat. Made from the signature Bemberg™ fabric, this jacket is as comfortable as it is versatile.  Wear it open as a jacket or button it up as a stand alone shirt.

FIELD + SUPPLY, WICKERS CREEK, SACRED EMBER SCENTED CANDLE

For a gift that is easy for dad to transport we recommend Field + Supply, Wickers Creek Sacred Ember Scented Candle. Wickers Creek is a Hudson, NY based candle company with a reverence for heritage craftsmanship. Their candles are all anchored by the slow burn of master crafters working in small batches. The 14 oz. hand-poured candle in reusable metal showpiece is the first of a wide array of Wickers Creek products launching soon. For dad we know he will love the Ember Scented Candle which using a sensual mix of sweet orris and smoky copal, it celebrates the ritual of gathering around the fire. “Nature’s silence paired with the crackle of aged wood, the unmistakable scent of dry heat, and the wild spirit of the flame.”

  • Reusable metal vessel

  • Hand-poured, plant-based wax blend

  • Average burn time 55-60 hours

  • 14oz (396g).

FIELD + SUPPLY, MOSES NADEL, RANGE TRAVEL BAG

One of our gift recommendations on the high end is this spectacular leather travel bag from Moses Nadel, a bespoke boutique atelier on Long Island, NY. They offer a well-curated collection of handmade luxury lifestyle products; leather artifacts, fine interior items, bags and accessories. Your father will love and treasure this leather duffle bag that will only become more beautiful as it ages and becomes a family heirloom. It is available in a multitude of colors (saddle color pictured) and as stated in the website the Range Travel Bag is, “A premium two-way large zipper, an interior zip pocket, two easily accessible drop-pockets, and two exterior side drop-pockets offer easy access, and a reinforced bottom panel with metal footing offers structure. Built to wear over the shoulder or with a fully adjustable and removable cross-body strap. Material Leather. Unlined with leather bottom and sides for support. Dimensions L 20.5" x W 9" x H 14". Handles 9" drop (L 21"), shoulder strap 38"-57" (removable).”

FIELD + SUPPLY, FLORA BEAUTY, COGNAC + TOBACCO GROOMING OIL

On the more affordable side of the spectrum of gift giving for dad is skincare for keeping dad’s skin looking soft, supple and youthful. In the last few years men have been catching up with women in wellness and the benefits of taking care of your skin. Gone are the days when a man would just slap some drying cologne on their skin and call it a day. Flora, a beauty and wellness brand based in Kingston, NY Flora honors this tradition with its line of natural, artisanal beauty treatments for hair, face, and body, crafted utilizing the highest-quality ingredients, selected without limitations of cost. Their Grooming Oil is, “A blend of organic Argan Oil and Borage Oil. Use to hydrate and soften facial hair and moisturize skin. Reduce inflammation in the hair follicles that can occur from the abrasiveness of shaving. Moisturizes hair and replenishes a dry scalp. The scent is sweet tobacco and cognac reminiscent of your grandfather’s humidor.”

FIELD + SUPPLY, MOSES NADEL, WEIGHTED PERISPHERE BALL

If your father is into sports we found the perfect artisanal gift, this Weighted Perisphere Ball from Moses Nadel. We love this gift as it can be either used as a medicine ball or home decor because it is such a beautiful work of art. “Inspired by traditional medicine balls, these unique objects have weight to them. They are as much a decorative work of art as an actual plaything to complete your training routine.

  • Each ball is a hand cut each 5-sided panel from select hides of American Buffalo and recycled weighted fill

  • Each piece is finished with traditional hand-lacing

  • Weights slightly vary

  • Materials: American Buffalo Leather. Recycled weighted fill.”

FIELD + SUPPLY, KC-KO, SINGLE WRAP MEN’S BRACELET

Another affordable Father’s Day gift we found on the Field + Supply online store is this nice piece of masculine jewelry from KC-KO, s small local brand that offers small-batch leather goods, hand-made in NYC. The Single Wrap Bracelet (burgundy waxed) comes in three sizes and they even offer the option of having it monogrammed for an additional $8. We love this for dad!

RICHARD WRIGHTMAN, FOLDING OFFICER’S FIELD CHAIR

And we end our last Father's Day gift with the ultimate artisan gift for dad we highly recommend this piece of campaign furniture from furniture designer Richard Wrightman. This Folding Officer’s Chairs made to order and offers a variety of material options. Richard Wrightman designs have all been inspired by campaign furniture (furniture the military in the past used while on a military campaign) and besides the well constructed folding chair, this piece comes with it’s own carefully crafted wooden box. You (or dad) can customize the design by choosing the wood, leather and fabric for this particular design. The dimensions are 20” W x 28” D x 27.5” H Seat Height: 8” Price is upon request once you chose the materials for this one of kind, once in a lifetime gift for dad that he will not only treasure but gladly use.

That is The Local Artisan Guide’s recommendation for Father’s Day 2024. We hope you explore Field + Supply as they are a great source for locally curated artisan products for all. I thank the dads that gave me their suggestions on what they would like to receive for Father’s Day. I wish all the men who are fathers and father figures a happy Father’s Day, providing for and creating a safe and loving family is the really the gift that keeps on giving.

By Natalie Rivera

BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES OF NYC 2024

February is Black History Month however at The Local Artisan Guide we feel when you pick the best artisanal objects whether it be fashion, decor, food or accessories, you find the makers are all inclusive and represented whether it be female, persons of color or sexual identity. So black owned businesses have always been represented on this site. That said Black makers still need support and to be highlighted so we will make sure minority and female owned businesses will have a spotlight on them especially when they are being celebrated nation wide.

The Local Artisan Guide chose five Black Owned businesses in New York City that are local, artisanal and represent fashion, decor, food and accessories. Black owned businesses are nothing new in New York City. For over a century Harlem which is located in the northern region of Manhattan has see black owned businesses flourish and thrive for decades. Iconic stores, clubs and restaurants are still around and have spread to all areas of the city. Please view our selections below and click onto the captions to view their sites and information.

HARLEM CANDLE CO.

Harlem Candle Co. was established in 2014 by lifestyle expert Teri Johnson as an homage to the spirit of Harlem, fragrance and jazz. Harlem Candle Co. offers more than candles, as they have developed perfume, home fragrances, gifts and journals. The products are named after famed Harlem residents and iconic spots in the neighborhood. One of our favorite candles is named after famed Harlem poet Langston Hughes. The candle’s fragrance and notes are inspired by elements of the poet’s life. Their description of the scent is “The worn vintage leather of his favorite armchair, aromatic tobacco laced with a hint of clove and vanilla from the pipes of the neighborhood men, and the smell of ambery incense that recalls his many visits to churches in Mexico.” The candle is packaged in a beautiful cobalt blue and is 11 oz with a burn time of 80 hours.

CLOUDY DONUTS

The neighborhood of Nolita, NYC is all atwitter as black owned vegan small batch donut brand Cloudy Donut has opened up a shop on the quiet block of Mott Street. We passed it on our Nolita Walk for our YouTube channel and had to go back to visit. Founded by Zewiditu Ruffin and Derrick Faulcon in 2020, Cloudy Donuts also has a store in Baltimore, MD and Brooklyn Heights (first black owned business in Brooklyn Heights!!). Although the donuts are a little bit more pricier than other donuts, there is a reason why; the flavors are EXTENSIVE! There are donut flavors here you would never think are possible. We had such a hard time picking a flavor because we wanted to try them all! So we will just have to keep on going back to try their whole selection. The Banana Fosters flavor was out of this world and a great way to have the hard to make dessert. Welcome to Nolita!!

BIER WAX

Established in 2017 by Chris Maestro, BierWax is a black owned craft beer bar. With over 5,000 vinyl records and a finely curated tap-list, they provide the ideal venue for music and beer aficionados. As they say on their site, “BierWax is malted grains, water, yeast, and hops mixed with a pinch of 45s, a cup of boom-bap, and a heaping tablespoon of funk.” We tried their “German Chocolate Cake Stout” which we didn’t even think could be a flavor but now is a reason to travel to Prospect Heights. BierWax’s selection and music make for an experience not just a night out at a bar.

YU INTERIORS

Yu Interiors is a black owned home decor store founded in 1999 by Ludlow Beckett who tired of his life in the finance world figured he could open up a store in the burgeoning area of Fort Greene, a neighborhood that at the time were growing in black owned businesses. Instead of going to Manhattan to find home decor, Beckett decided he could offer his neighbors a highly selection of curated home decor. From candles to furniture, Yu Interiors has become a go to destination for home decor in Brooklyn.

BYAS & LEON

Byas & Leon are a black owned sustainable fashion brand. Their mission is to “specializes in ethically sourced apparel—including curated vintage, fair-trade brands and handmade wares from independent craftspeople. It also serves as an incubator of various community-driven initiatives and an Afro diaspora-centric cultural hub, providing space for artists, creatives and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas and host programming.” From candles to accessories to apparel for men and women, we love the unisex BLCU Sweater. This sweater in homage to the spirit of learning that's very much an integral part of their communal fabric, as well as to the Black collegiate institutions that are very much integral to Black History. Byas & Leon even has a mobile airstream that goes around neighborhoods introducing the brand to a greater audience.

These brands are just a few of many black owned businesses in New York City, much less the United States. We support not only that they are black owned businesses but that they also share our ethos for local, encourage others to shop small, are artisanal, sustainable, ethical and rely on a passion for craft.

By Natalie Rivera

LAST MINUTE ARTISANAL VALENTINES DAY GIFTS THAT ARE SURE TO PLEASE!

February is one of those months that come and go in a New York minute. Before you know it, you blink and its over. Valentines Day is in the middle of February and it’s easy to remember last minute to make that dinner reservation and find a thoughtful gift that will let your loved one know you know what makes them feel like they are important in your life. We even have a gift for that person in your life that you are over with and needed a subtle and stylish way to say “Please Don’t Be My Valentine”.

Here at The Local Artisan Guide we have a Valentines Day Gift Guide that ranges from the very affordable to a little outlandish. However all the gifts are quite unique and truly artisanal. Just click on the link for more info.

Teddy Bear Duo. 2 of the cutest teddy bear madeleines covered with 2 chocolates, 2 different flavors

Components : Milk chocolate madeleine with chocolate-hazelnut spread, Dulcey chocolate madeleine with maple

Allergy : Dairy, Gluten, Nut (Hazelnut), Egg

VIVAS: A REFLECTION ON THE FEMALE BODY:
The project started as a way to desexualise the view on the female body and understand we are beautiful in all our different shapes, sizes and colors. My way of doing this is through my ceramic pieces! It all started about 2 years ago when I made a pot and then added boobs, and I loved it so much that I never stopped! At first, I tried to replicate exactly what I had made, but I couldn’t. I quickly realised that no piece would ever look like the other and hence the essence of the project, each piece is unique and unrepeatable. My name is Carla, I am a ceramist and an architect. I hand-make each of the pieces with my team at Vivas Ceramica in my studio in Buenos Aires. Each collection seeks to empower women through a carefully thought out theme.

Pointy Pen Cards

Artist Michael Mendoza will personally make for you a witty, funny and beautiful Valentines Day Card for your loved one. You can reach him at point_pen_cards on Instagram or at El Mercado in Jackson Heights, Queens, NY. A very affordable way to show someone you care.

LA ENVIRO is a vegan wallet, watch and accessories label, based in Perth Australia. They envision a world that is animal cruelty-free, whilst creating stunning and lasting designs using sustainable materials, such as recycled plastic bottles and premium vegan leathers. They endeavor to maintain the balance in nature as they create fashion with minimal damage and depletion to nature in the process.

Award winning jewelry maker Val Stern is showing his new collection at Atelier D’Emotion starting February 11th, 2023. Val has trained with third generation Faberge artisans and his jewelry is not only elaborate but very technical just like Faberge eggs are technical with hidden compartments and the ability to move and transform. Come to this amazing boutique or go to their website to check out Val’s amazing collection of one of a kind pieces. If you want to stun someone for Valentines Day, this is the gift for them.

Scent notes of Cardamom, Mimosa, Vanilla Milk and Sandalwood, this unisex fragrance is featured by Phlur’s whose philosophy is to use both natural and synthetic ingredients. 

Phlur loves botanical ingredients for the character they lend to our fragrances, however natural doesn’t always equal safer. In some cases, synthetic ingredients can be less allergenic than certain natural ingredients. 

Harvesting natural ingredients for fine fragrance can require tons of botanicals for a very small amount of material. Many natural ingredients are at risk of becoming over harvested and endangered. Phlur partner with the world’s leading fragrance suppliers to ensure we are utilizing sustainable natural materials and we are being respectful of the environment. 

A gift from Miss Havisham’s Curiosities is a spectacular way to show someone you care…or you don’t. There is a collection of biting phases on beautiful china with a daring message once you are done with your tea or coffee.

See, getting thoughtful Valentines Day gifts doesn’t have to be a chore. Dinner, flowers and a box of chocolate can be quite pedestrian. Shop local artisan and its a win/win situation. And if you don’t have a Valentines then give a gift to the love of your life…YOURSELF!!

Happy Valentines Day!

BRANDS TO BE THANKFUL FOR GIVING BACK

With the holiday season now officially upon us The Local Artisan Guide would like to highlight some brands that share the same ideals and mission of working with artisans in a sustainable manner and giving back to make the world a better place.

These days you can help make the world a better place by learning to be a conscious shopper. Investigating a brand’s ethos and what they stand for is a win/win situation. To know the product you are investing your money is made in an eco friendly manner that helps local community around the world is the shopping ripple that we as a society need to be apart of.  We are highlighting for this Thanksgiving five brands that have this mindset. Click onto the caption in the image for more information.

The first brand we would like to highlight is Akola, a globally inspired jewelry brand creating beautiful designs to lift up and champion women around the world. Akola means “she works” in a local Ugandan dialect. Akola provides life-changing job opportunities through vertically integrated manufacturing employing women in Uganda to make each Akola piece. 

A piece we love is the Zuri Set of Bangle Bracelets. For an affordable $195 you get the option of two different color sets of bangles to chose from (blonde and black). The blonde set featured here includes; one luxury designer Austrian Crystal encrusted bangle, two 10k gold tone bangles and three horn bangles carved by hand in their Ugandan horn studio. All bangles are handcrafted in Ugandan, 2.5” inner diameter and you can wear all together or mix and match.

Are you are looking for a gift for the special man in your life whether it be your boyfriend, brother, dad or good male friend? Are you looking a spectacular gift that also gives back to the world? May we recommend the Alpaca Scarf from Global Goods Partners. This knit Nayra Alpaca Scarf is woven from the softest baby alpaca from Peru and is not only cozy warm but super lightweight. The dimensions are 72”L x 16”W and come from the artisans of Royal Knit, a group of artisans based in Peru who work in their small workshop weaving alpaca and other natural fibers into accessories. This program helps specially women who are victims of domestic  abuse in effort to promote cultural identity and generate incomes for themselves and their children. They have grown now to over 400 weavers and knitters with over 40 workshops located in Cusco, Puno, Huancavelica and Lima, Peru.

A great affordable stocking stuffer we have for the holidays comes from Patent of Heart with their new selection of novelty leather luggage tags at just $29 each (Dimensions: L: 4.25” x W: 3”). Each luggage tag come in a variety of different colors with five funny sayings we most certainly find ourselves saying when we travel with luggage. They are:

  • Thank God You Found Me comes in black, yellow red, blue and orange.

  • They All Look The Same Don’t They? Comes in black, yellow, red, blue and orange.

  • Woo Hoo I’m Over Here! Comes in black, yellow, red, blue and orange.

  • Nope Not Yours comes in blue, yellow, orange and red.

  • Nope Yours Is The Other Black Bag comes in black, yellow, red, blue and orange.

Patent of Heart was built on the belief and mission of giving back. Their brand was born out of creating a beautiful product working with artisans, mostly female, whilst preserving their traditions and skills, upcycling raw materials and having a portion of our profits go to help educate girls in Turkey.

When it comes to home decor, World Market, is a San Francisco brand that has been selling artisanal home decor from around the world since the 70’s. They focus on products that are sustainable and helps artisans keep their local artisan skills alive. We are featuring exclusively from World Market the “All Across Africa Dark Blue Woven Disc Wall Decor”. Handcrafted of raffia and banana fibers, this beautiful disc is made in Uganda and is ready to hang in your home or office. Available in additional designs, the disc is 20” in diameter x 2.5” depth. The artisans creating this piece are artisanal women weavers from Uganda and includes a tag from the weaver describing what creating this piece of art means to her. In collaboration with “All Across Africa”, these artisans are empowered to pay school fees, gain access to safe housing, food and healthcare and save for her future and family.

Our final recommendation of gifts that give back to the world is the “Mini Candle Trio Gift Box” from the Wurrumay Collective for $49.95. The Wurrumay Collective is a small handmade business created by Natasha Kaiser, a proud Aboriginal woman from the Gomeroa Tribe in NSW, Australia. These three 60 gram mini candles come in Australian Bush, Australian Sandalwood and Kakadu Plum. Inspired by her homelands and Australia’s natural resources, Wurrumay Collective helps the Gomeroa Tribe and provides work from this Australian luxury fragrance brand. The candles make for unique unisex gift items and is a great way to help a small artisan brand and its community from around the world.

We hope we inspired you to gift giving that ripples in positive ways from brands that make it part of their mission to give consciously back to communities and people around the world. The stories of these brands and how they came about to make a difference in the world using artisans makes any product whether for yourself or to your loved ones worth having. Going against algorithms for shopping and focusing on small, local brands that give back is the perfect way to acquire good shopping karma for the holidays.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Local Artisan Guide!

VALENTINES DAY GIFT GUIDE FOR HER

The Local Artisan Guide usually posts one blog for Valentines Day however this year we will post four: one for her, one for him, one for Galentines Day and one solely for chocolates.

This year we picked five Valentines Day gifts for the woman in your life. We choose a range of ideas, categories and price points. All are unique, thoughtful, come from small artisanal businesses and will be greatly appreciated as well as romantic and that is in the end what you are going for.

Ilenia Corti Vernissage “My Heart is Yours” Red Necklace

Ilenia Corti Vernissage, “My Heart is Yours” Red Necklace, $805

Ilenia Corti Vernissage is an Italian jewelry designer whose aesthetic is definitely maximalist with intricate scenarios of nature, the insect world and for this piece, the human heart in all its anatomical glory. So when you say to your loved one, “You have my heart”, her “My Heart is Yours” red necklace literally takes the cake. Sold on the Artemest online store, the description for the piece reads:

A tribute to the heart, the mysterious source of deep feelings such as love and sadness, this fascinating necklace includes a thin, beaded chain and a marvelous silver pendant in the anatomical shape of a heart. Bright red enamel is used to emphasize the already vivid details, making this piece of jewelry a true work of art.

Handmade in Italy the dimensions are (in): W 1.18 x D 0.79 x H 0.39 and $805.

The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Co., 3 Luxury Hand Cream Bars Mixed Fragrance Pack

The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Co., 3 Luxury Hand Cream Bars Mixed Fragrance Pack, 25.99 English Pounds

Not a soap, not a lotion, The Edinburgh Natural Skincare Co. based in Edinburgh, Scotland offers a solid hand creme bar in three fragrances (The Queen Bee, Golden Rosewood, and Luxury No.1). All bars are made using the purest, most natural ingredients nature has to offer. Handmade in the garden of Scotland and never tested on animals, they’re all free from chemicals and impurities. The descriptions of each bar are:

The Queen Bee

The Queen Bee Solid Natural Hand Cream Bar is an indulgent formula that helps moisturise, protect, and soothe your hands. Forming a barrier against the wear and tear of the day, it gives you deeper hydration, longer-lasting softness and visibly clearer skin.

Golden Rosewood

Introducing the Golden Rosewood Solid Hand Cream Bar – rich in moisturising and hydrating essential oils, it’s infused with Coconut Oil for quick absorption and hydration. We’ve enriched the formula with a blend of the purest natural extracts to re-vitalise and nourish your skin.

Luxury No.1

Our Luxury No. 1 Solid Hand Cream Bar is like walking into a luxurious spa. Prolonging the voluptuous aura of Luxury No. 1, this perfumed Solid Hand Cream Bar intensifies the scents of essential oils with light citrus and spicy top notes of Lime and Clove, with warm subtle mid notes of Sweet Orange, Frankincense, and Myrrh and sensual base notes of French Provencal Lavender and Rose Geranium.

The cream bars have a non-sticky texture that melts into your skin, they are also sustainably sourced and packaged and are great for traveling as they are acceptable as on-flight luggage for on-the-go hand care. The Hand Cream Bar is 6.5cm in length, 4cm in width,  2cm in depth and 9.5cm in length, 6.0cm in width, 2.5cm in depth in the tin. Its an affordable and beautiful skincare product to gift for Valentines Day (for all sexes).

Tasty Slice, Handcrafted Chocolate Flowers Box, St. Valentines Day Collection

Tasty Slice, Handcrafted Chocolate Flowers Box, St. Valentines Day Collection, $50

The Local Artisan Guide found out about Tasty Slice and their magnificent chocolate flower arrangement from Atelier d’Emotion (one of our favorite boutiques for jewelry, art and design). Tasty Slice has created a beautiful box of chocolate flowers (that also includes stationary). The description for the chocolates are:

Discover the delicious flavors of Tasty Slice ruby and white chocolate flowers by awakening your taste buds with exotic flavor combinations. Each chocolate candy is made with the finest ingredients from around the world. 100 grams of chocolate.

It’s almost a two in one; chocolates AND flowers! Win/Win!

Heretic, Floragasm

Heretic, Floragasm, 50 ML, $165

Los Angeles based perfume brand Heretic has set themselves apart in the perfume industry by creating small batch fragrances by using organic non-GMO sugarcane alcohol so you can experience the Ayurvedic benefits of the powerful plant materials, plus Heretic uses all the parts of the plants to create even more unique scents that are vegan and cruelty free. Heretic also does not use the chemicals and additives used by standard perfumes to artificially extend wear. For their scent, “Floragasm” the description for the fragrance is:

Bright, seductive Jasmine flirts with Bergamot, a tingle of Pink Pepper, and a burst of Orange Blossom, in this 100% natural floral fragrance that stimulates creativity and passion. 

TOP: Bergamot, Bitter Orange, Coriander, Lemon, Pimento Berry, Pink Pepper 
HEART: Jasmine, Linden Blossom, Orange Blossom, Tuberose, Ylang-Ylang
BASE: Hibiscus Seed

Also available at 15 ML for $65.

Patent of Heart Alba Accordion Flip Crossbody/Clutch

Patent of Heart, Alba Accordion Flap Crossbody /Clutch, $189

Handbag and small leather goods brand Patent of Heart is ideal for a Valentines Day gift for her not only because she will be in possession of a beautiful handbag or small leather good (whose logo involves a heart) but because the designer and founder Elif Ayadin is passionate about creating sustainable fashion AND giving back to the world. In this case proceeds of her profits go to organizations that encourage education for girls worldwide that have obstacles in attaining an education. The leathers for Patent of Heart are sourced from dead stock and sustainable materials. Further details for this multi purpose clutch AND crossbody are:

Dimensions:

  • 8.5"Length x 7.5"Height x 2.5" Depth ( Open Depth: 6.5" )

  • 2 accordion compartments

  • 1 flat inside zipper pocket

  • removable chain strap

  • Fully - lined with leather

We hope you find the selection of Valentine Gift ideas for her helpful. Just click on the name brand of each image and the link will take you to the site and provide further information on the product.

We are dedicated to finding artisans who create small batch production of unique, thoughtful and romantic gifts in all price ranges that your loved one will be touched to receive as they will appreciate the originality of their gift.

Next up, Valentines Day Gifts for Him!

By Natalie Rivera

THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE'S TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - DAY ELEVEN: FOOD

It’s the eleventh day of our Holiday Gift Guide and today we focus on a gift category that every loves and can use and that is food. Whether you are gifting a seasoned gourmand or a beginner, we have five artisanal food gifts that will help built any chef’s kitchen whilst making for unique, affordable and useful gifts.

SULLIVAN STREET TEA & SPICE COMPANY, “DOUBLE HAPPINESS FLOWERING TEA”, $26

Just one of Sullivan Street Tea & Spice Company’s hand-sewn Double Happiness flowering tea balls will brighten any pot. A long leaf green tea, which has been delicately hand-tied with chrysanthemum, amaranth and jasmine flowers, will unfurl into a beautiful floral display. Use a glass tea pot or small glass bowl for a perfect visual centerpiece. Steep one tea ball in 16 oz. of water at approximately 170 degrees. Each ball makes 2-3 cups. Nine tea balls are packaged in a beautiful recycled glass cork jar. Region: Yunnan, China.

THE MEADOW, “HOME SET ESSENTIALS SALT KIT”, $75

Bitterman's Home Chef Essentials Salt Kit includes everything an aspiring or seasoned home chef needs to season to perfection. These salts are truly the foundation of good cooking, and will last you a full four seasons of cooking. You can use these salts everyday, they include:

Bitterman's Fleur de Sel is hand harvested from solar-evaporated salt ponds by skimming just the finest crystals from the surface. This Fleur de Sel is made in Guatemala from salt pans in an area famed for supplying the Mayan Empire at the height of its power. The salt has delicate crystals, luscious moisture, satisfying crunch, and a rich, balanced mineral taste. It's our go-to cooking, baking, brining and all-around finishing salt.

Biiterman’s Flake Salt is the snow of the sea, with a soft, crispy texture and a salinity so other-worldly it will transport any dish it touches. This salt loves spring and summer. Gently scatter the flakes on lightly dressed green salads, raw or freshly grilled vegetables, fish and other seafoods.

Bitterman's Sel Gris is a classic French gros sel (coarse salt) and makes an tremendous replacement for all coarse industrial kosher and sea salts. The culmination of two millennia of salt making experience on the exquisitely pristine coastal waters Île de Noirmoutier, this gros sel gris is truly historic. Use mostly for all-around cooking and finishing hearty foods, like steaks, roasts, beans, soups and stews. This salt has coarse, moist crystals with impeccable balance and surprising suppleness given their heft!

Himalayan Pink Salt is a pure, hand-mined salt found deep inside the pristine foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. This 250 million year old, Jurassic era pink sea salt is known for its healing properties and is used as an all-around cooking salt. Sprinkle generously on popcorn, use in brines and pickles, frying potato chips, French fries and fritters, or when making homemade baked goods.

Biiterman’s Grinding Salt is a course, mineral-rich sea salt from fresh seawater off the coast of New Zealand. This pantry staple is the ideal grinding salt for everyday cooking. Fill your salt mill and grind this over everything from sauteed vegetables to lean, gamey meats. If you're feeling bold, leave this salt whole and sprinkle over the bold and powerful foods, think tomahawk steak over a firepit in the heat of the summer with herbaceous roasted potatoes and a rich hunters sauce.

EATALY, “TRADITIONAL BALSAMIC VINEGAR OF MODENA DOP AGED 25+ YEARS GOLD 3.4 OZ” $169

The Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP Aged 25+ years Gold from Acetomodena is obtained from cooked grape must of selected Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes from the countryside of Modena. This extraordinary product is slowly aged for more than 25 years decanting and refilling six antique series of old barrels in various wood: cherry, mulberry, juniper, oak, ash, or chestnut. This product has a glossy, dark brown color and an intense full-body flavor.
Flavor: rich and full in taste, sweet and with impressive strength and persistent ending. Harmonious with a nice and balanced sweet bitterness.
Pairings: Parmigiano Reggiano DOP, steaks, fish, gelato and strawberries.
Ingredients: cooked grape must.
Amid the mists of the fascinating Modena countryside, icy in the winter months and very hot in the summer months, you will find the Società Agricola Aceto Modena - the Modena Vinegar Agricultural Company. The company has been producing the exquisite Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena DOP for years, the truly excellent balsamic vinegar that most characterizes the traditions of the Emilia region of Italy. Hard work and dedication has led to the passing on of the traditional recipe for a condiment loved and appreciated worldwide. Available at Eataly.

MARIEBELLE, “16PC HOLIDAY CHOCOLATE GANACHE RED BOX” $54

Sixteen signature MarieBelle New York chocolate ganaches artfully arranged in an elegant box. Each ganache combines the finest single-origin chocolate with eclectic ingredients and artisanal techniques. A memorable gift for any occasion.

SPICES AND TEASE “THE MOROCCAN SET”, $16.95

Best Gift for Moroccan Culture Lover; The Spices and Tease set features their 5 best Moroccan Spices which include:

-Tajine Mix

-Cumin Mint mix

-Spicy Sausage:Merguez blend

-Ras El Hanout

-Couscous Mix

These foodie holiday gifts are so first rate you will end up gifting yourself for your kitchen. We recommend exploring these artisanal brands to fill up your kitchen supplies. They also make for tasty affordable and thoughtful holiday gifts that will be greatly appreciated.

By Natalie Rivera

THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE'S TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - DAY FOUR: FASHION APPAREL

On the fourth day of our Holiday Gift Guide, we are highlighting five fashion apparel and accessories brands that are innovative, unique and devastatingly stylish. They might be small brands however they attract fashionistas in the know who want to walk in a room knowing they will not only look fabulous but don’t have to worry about their outfits being replicated. 

The designers we are featuring have an aesthetic that involves love of textures, colors, techniques and value sustainability. We picked a few of our favorite pieces from each collection which was not easy, so we encourage you to look further on their sites (yes you can order from their online shop too) and to witness the variety of holiday gift options they provide, especially at all different price points.


MARY JAEGER, “CASHMERE SHAWL: SQUARE ILLUSIONS TAUPE+BLUE PLAID”, $650

Mary Jaeger fine accessories collection is inspirited by both eastern traditions and contemporary western design. inspired by my passions for color, texture and pattern she uses shaped resist dyeing techniques synthesized with voluminous silhouettes and a love of hand-crafted construction and couture details. Beginning with woven and knit natural fibers such as cotton, linen, silk, wool, alpaca and cashmere, she proceeds to selectively dye and shrink portions of the fabric or garment multiple times. Her fine cashmere shawls use sustainably sourced cashmere yarns hand-woven in a family-owned atelier in Katmandu and are individually designed and dyed in Jaeger’s atelier. The intersecting lines of this shawl are inspired by a classic watch plaid. This shawl is season-less – the perfect wrap for chilly summer evenings and air conditioned rooms. Any woman would treasure Mary Jaeger’s collection as a holiday gift. $$-$$$

100% fine cashmere

  • hand-woven

  • individually hand dyed using shaped-resist techniques

  • natural+blue+taupe

  • hand-wash or dry clean

  • soft fringed edges on all sides

  • one-of-a-kind

  • 86" x 36"

MARIA DE LA ORDEN, “NIZA PANTS”, FUSHIA, 140 EUROS

Maria de la Orden is a relatively new fashion brand founded in Madrid by Maria de la Orden and Laura de la Révélière. The brand has taken off in its popularity by offering a colorful and eclectic collection that is disarming feminine and flirty. The Riza pants featured are offered in bright jewel tone colors with contrasting piping and is indicative of the brand’s love of playing with color and pattern with feminine silhouettes that are fun yet sophisticated pieces of clothing. The Niza pants are made in a Fushia corduroy fabric. They have a straight cut and a high-waist with a nacre button fastening. The two white patch front pockets and side linewill provide a retro touch to your look! Mix and match with our shirts and sweaters to play with the pockets for an eye-catching total look! 100% Cotton. Made in Europe. $$-$$$

VOZ, “CHE CROP TOP IN BABY ALPACA”, $550

Voz, which means “voice” in Spanish is a Benefit Corporation ethical fashion company whose mission is to protect the livelihoods, well-being, and cultural values of rural indigenous women globally. They pay living wages for every textile and sewn garment, and use sustainable fibers and processes. VOZ was founded in 2012 by Jasmine Etoile Aarons, and today provides over 100 jobs throughout their supply chain. The Che Crop Top featured is made of soft and luxurious Baby Alpaca and features the Che symbol, signifying human unity. $$-$$$

  • 100% Baby Alpaca hand-loomed in Chile by Mapuche weavers

  • One Size Fits All

ARCHERIE, “WILHEMINA”, $312

Founded by Jillian Kaufman Grano and Fulani Steven Hart, Archerie seeks to play with patterns and silhouettes that are modern yet invite color and sophistication that works well from the job place to evening wear. Its made for the woman who would like to stand out in the room, but for all the right reason. Wilhelmina is our version of what a shirt dress should be. Full button front. Off center waist tie. Just enough stitched down pleats and shirring at the waist and on the sleeve to give it just enough femininity. 100% poly crepe. Rust Geo.


KAI D. UTILITY, MORAY “MONGOLIAN CASHMERE SWEATER- GRAPHITE”, $285

Kai D. Utility offers a highly curated selection of men’s clothing and our pick is one that is a customer favorite and a perfect gift for the man in your life, cashmere! The brand is Moray and the cashmere hair is from Outer Mongolia. These are often lone herdsmen who live out in the gers (yurts in English) in the steppes of the Gobi desert, lush and green in the summer and frozen all winter. Moray ensures the herdsmen are paid fairly and the herds can be fed during the winter with hay and corn and are not too large (which leads to malnutrition and starvation of the weaker goats). The yarn is spun with more twists than the industry standard (due to the long Mongolian fibers) our cashmere pills less. To prevent pilling machine wash. Use a wool cycle and non-biological detergent. (Biological detergents contain enzymes which can damage hair. Cashmere is actually a hair not a wool. Hand washing is also an option with very lightweight items however be careful not to kneed the garment like dough, just stir in the warm water and let it soak. Made in 100% highest quality Mongolian cashmere. Mock neck style. Slim fit. Suggest to go one size up. Made in Mongolia. $$-$$$

May these choices not only be helpful in your gift giving but new sources of fashion for you to delve into and support as local, small businesses with high quality products, unique design, sustainable slow fashion and artisanal skills they hope to pass on to the next generation.

By Natalie Rivera

THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE'S TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - DAY THREE- HANDBAGS & SMALL LEATHER GOODS

On the third day of our “Twelve Days of Christmas Holiday Gift Guide” we are featuring five handbag brands that range from heritage brands to relatively new independent brands. Their designs are unique and created by master artisans who have the knowledge of generations at their hands. Along with a consciousness of making a product that is as sustainable as possible, these brands work at using the materials wisely whilst creating fashion pieces that provide excellent gifts for the holidays.

MOI AND SASS “THE NUNA MINI TOTE”, 340 EUROS

Moi and Sass, is a handbag and leather goods brand founded by Latin Americans Moira Laporta and Alessandra de Osma, designed in Madrid and made in Spain. This relatively new brand has a minimalist aesthetic as it incorporates high quality leathers whilst utilizing the craftsmanship of Spanish leather artisans. The “Muna Mini Tote” is your everyday bag to carry all of your essentials in style. With a surprisingly spacious interior, this bag is crafted from Italian calf leather and features two handy external pockets to easily store your phone and small valuables. All Moi & Sass products are Made in Spain. $$$

PATENT OF HEART, “MINA WRISTLET” $75

Patent of Heart is a handbag brand founded by Turkish designer turned New Yorker Elif Ayakin. Patent of Heart creates handbags and small leather goods with inspiration from multiple cultures and are crafted by men and women artisans all over the world. We love this new style the “Mina Wristlet and Crossbody” which is small but holds the little important things. What is also great about giving the Mina as a gift is that Patent of Heart donated proceeds from their sales to help the education of young women around the world who don’t have much access to classrooms and learning. Win/Win! $$

KEMPTON AND CO. “HENLEY FOLD UP BAG - CAMO”, $275

Kempton and Co. is a handbag and lifestyle brand that was founded by English designer turned New Yorker, Fiona Kempton. Kempton’s equestrian and sailing background heavily influence her designs and creations seen mainly in her choice of materials and hardware yet are remarkably perfect for both country and city life. Kempton and Co.’s Henley Fold Up Bag, is our choice for the perfect holiday gift as they state: “The Henley Fold Up Bag combines our simple brass detail with a durable wax canvas. Trimmed with bridle leather straps, brass zipper and buckle, this is the perfect tote for transitioning from carrying it all to emptying out, and turn into a slim convenient package. Measurements: 14" H x 14" W x 9" ,Folded: 7" H x 10" W x 1."Handle Drop: 5"- 8 1/2" Adjustable.” $$-$$$

CONNOLLY, “TAN HEX MEDIUM WALLET”, 395 BRITISH STERLINGS

For those in the know, Connolly is an English heritage brand founded in 1878 by a small family of saddlers and shoe-smiths. As the car industry grew, Connolly became the go to leather upholsterer for the interior of world renowned automobiles such as Rolls Royce, Bentley, Jaquar and Aston Martin. It is still a family run business and has since grown to a respectful leather goods and lifestyle brand in their 142 year old history. Their small leather goods make for excellent holiday gifts for the men in your life as for those in the know, know how special it is to have a Connolly product. The Tan Hex Medium Leather Wallet reflects Connolly’s signature aesthetic, the hex ½ medium zip wallet has only the finest details. Vintage palladium hardware is made in Italy to the most exacting standards. Made of natural vegetable tanned leather the tan hex half medium wallet has white stitching and a two-sided zip that are carefully finished. Owning a Connolly product made be the closest you can get to being inside James Bond’s Aston Martin. $$$

JOYN BAGS LEATHER 3-IN-1 “WEEKENDER IN DARK BROWN LEATHER”, $250

Joyn Bags is an ethical, fair-trade handbag brand founded by husband and wife team Mel and Dave who moved to Rajpur, India and started working with female artisans who were victims of abuse and human trafficking so that they may have another chance on changing their lives by craftsmanship and making handmade leather goods. Our choice for the guide is this beautiful Mini-Weekender that was designed for those who happen to travel a lot. This Mini-Weekender is made with durable canvas material. It has two external pockets with snap buttons that fasten securely. It has one internal zipper pocket, a phone pocket and miscellaneous pocket. It has a removable leather pouch insert inside that functions as a divider and another compartment. It fastens securely with two hidden magnets at the base and two dog hooks on either side. When this leather insert is removed, it can be worn as a crossbody. So if you’re at your destination, and you want to ditch the heavy load and head to a party, your crossbody is right there, no extra carry-on needed. Full grain leather with Block Printed Canvas internally antique gold hardware. $$-$$$

As you see our choices ranged from large weekenders, to small wristlets, to small leather goods for both men and women in all price points. Each choice has an incredible story on how the brand originated and their unique design vision . These choices make for exceptional holiday gifts that will be sure to be treasured for a long time.

By Natalie Rivera

THE LOCAL ARTISAN GUIDE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - DAY ONE: FRAGRANCES

The Local Artisan Guide has seen so many amazing artisans this pass year that one gift guide for the holidays is not enough so we will have “The Twelves Days of Christmas Holiday Gift Guide” with each day highlighting a different gift category. For the first day of our gift guide we will feature our picks for fragrances for both men and women. The following five choices can all be considered unisex fragrances as they inspire to capture a feeling and an experience instead of just floral and woody notes.

ANTOINETTE POISSON “TISON”

The third part of this trilogy of perfumes dedicated to Madame Antoinette Poisson, mistress of King Louis XV, focuses on the latter part of their relationship when she was more his confidant than an active mistress. "Tison", with its notes of smoky and woody notes, reminds the quietness and warmth of the fireplace, the incandescence of the embers in the crackling wood fire in the petit salon. The flame that has long animated the Marquise de Pompadour still burns.

D.S. & DURGA, “I DON’T KNOW WHAT”

D.S. & Durga have created a fragrance enhancer with transparent radiance that gives any perfume a certain, as the French say, “I don’t know what.” With top notes of bergamot essence, heart notes of iso e super, vetiver acetate and base notes of civettone, firsantal and ambrox super, this fragrance is definitely a ‘Je ne sais quoi’


BYREDO “MIXED EMOTIONS”

“Mixed Emotions”, an epicene scent designed to reflect the tumultuous nature of our times. Drawing on the Byredo philosophy of translating fragmented memories and abstract ideas into scent, “Mixed Emotions” presents an olfactive sketch of our current, collective state of mind. Comforting notes of maté and the sharp sweetness of cassis sit within a wooden framework; the reassuring scent of black tea disturbed by violet leaf synthetics.

ROOT AND RESIN “ASTROMA BY DESIGN”

Combining astrology with aromatherapy, this unique process will dive deep into your chart to craft your unique signature star scent. An Astroman by Design reading is your personalized aromatic blend to support your intention, goals and life purpose through your soul’s map and blueprint that is your natal birth chart and desired aromatic profile.

Drawing from the science of aromatherapy and the art of astrology, together we custom craft a synergy scent particular to your desire and actions. Using your soul’s astrological blueprint through your horoscope we are able to source valuable information to align particular plant aromas to support your core essence. Upon purchasing they will need your astrological information to get started. Visit their sister website and share your birth chart information so that they may begin the Astroma process.

HOUSE OF POTENTIA, “BLACK SMOKE EAU DE PARFUM” AVAILABLE AT ATELIER D EMOTION

House of Potentia created a perfume that brings to mind desire journeys through hope and doubt. The great “I am” emerges and takes its eternal stand. Rich Incense, Sandalwood offer solace through the haze.

All these incredible fragrances come from perfumers who are changing the face of the fragrance world by offering more of an experience that a certain scent that crosses over the line of gender for a unisex memory embodied by the art of olfactory. All these brands offer multiple scents that are worth exploring and expanding your aroma library.

By Natalie Rivera

Day Tripping...Exploring Local Upstate NY

While many of us may not be ready to jump on a plane yet, with summer around the corner and warmer beautiful weather upon us there are many options to get out and start enjoying the world again in a safe manner. This is the time to go day tripping and explore local.

Read More

Celebrating Women Home Decor Designers for International Women's Month

For the month of March The Local Artisan Guide has been highlighting the works of women artisans around the world in different categories and media. This week we are focusing on women designers who create home decor. Whether its furniture, ceramics, glassware, wall paper, candles or textiles; we have found eight women designers who you should know about.

Below are samples of their products and excerpts from their “About” pages on their sites to describe their journey on becoming a local artisan. Click onto the links in the captions in the images of the products to visit the websites of the artisans below.

REBECCA ATWOOD DESIGNS - REBECCA ATWOOD

Rebecca Atwood

Rebecca Atwood

Brooklyn based designer and artist Rebecca Atwood believes in the art of making.

I believe that how you get to a finished product is just as important as the final design. Each step of my process, from first sketch to production techniques to our shipping methods, is so important. I don’t believe in perfection, but I do ask myself, “How can I do things better?” frequently. I like to think you can see that when you purchase one of our pieces. And I like to think that our process is part of the reason you can feel truly good about bringing our pieces into your home.


JOHANNA HOWARD HOME - JOHANNA HOWARD

Johanna Howard

Johanna Howard

The roots of our products are in Johanna’s native Sweden.  That is where, as a young girl, she sat in her mother’s atelier as she meticulously crafted dresses by hand.  Johanna learned to appreciate the quality and versatility that only hand work can achieve.  And it is where she was surrounded by the clean elegance of Scandinavian design.

As a young woman, Johanna took these influences with her to America to attend fashion school and then to establish herself as a successful clothing designer.  Working for such companies as BCBG, Katayone Adeli, Express and Gap  - her accessible designs have been worn by women all over the country.  Whether gracing  the pages of Vogue, an actress’ wardrobe or a special night out,  her designs made women feel special.

Now, Johanna has turned her eye to designing for the home.   Through her travels, she has discovered incredibly talented artisans and collaborates with them to elevate their traditional craftsmanship with refined composition.  Whether engaging the dyers in the highlands of Peru or the weaving families of Portugal, she envisions the possibilities of their techniques and incorporates their unique skills into her products.  The result of this marriage of cultures and creativity is “a revelation” that is “simply breathtaking.”

PRAIRIE MOON HANDMADE - CARLA LORENCE

Carla Lorence

Carla Lorence

My name is Carla Lorence and I’m a Potter/ceramic artist, wife and momma.  I was born and raised on the prairies, Regina Saskatchewan Canada! I’ve always been creating.  As long as I can remember.  My artistic focus has changed over the years, but I feel like I’ve settled into a creative groove over the last 5 years.     

I started making pottery back in university, over 20 years ago, while pursuing my Arts Education degree.  I have been selling my work professionally for about 7 years.

I create handmade, functional work in small batches.  My work is my passion and the utmost care and joy goes into creating each and every piece at every stage.  Each stage of my process is done by hand in my in home ceramic studio, from wheel throwing to trimming to carefully hand painting each item. 

deKor - ISABELLE DAHLIN

Isabelle Dahlin

Isabelle Dahlin

Growing up in Sweden profoundly influenced interior designer Isabelle Dahlin’s aesthetic for deKor. Beginning when she was a little girl, Isabelle learned to associate her passion for art, home style and anything design-oriented with well-being and happiness.

Once she crossed the pond, Isabelle landed at The Otis School of Art and Design then the New School at Parsons.

After years of working as an interior designer sourcing great finds for her clients, Dahlin decided to bring a lifelong dream to fruition – to open a furniture/design boutique. deKor opened June 2011 in Echo Park, an artistic community near downtown Los Angeles.

As an expatriate, mixing styles and cultures is something that comes naturally to Dahlin. Her travels throughout Europe and Africa infuse her sense of design with an easy eclecticism. The offerings at deKor are sophisticated and cosmopolitan, yet still accessible and fun.


MISS HAVISHAM’S CURIOSITIES - MELISSA JOHNSON

Melissa Johnson Photo by Max Gough

Melissa Johnson Photo by Max Gough

Melissa Johnson is descended from antique dealers, grew up at flea markets, and some say was even born at a garage sale.

She has developed and produced television for clients such as The Colbert Report, The Disney Channel, Playhouse Disney, PBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, Vh-1, Comedy Central, Cartoon Network, A&E, Oxygen Media, BET, and Robert Smigel’s TV Funhouse/Saturday Night Live.

She is currently working on a book length memoir, which she hopes is a Running With Scissors meets Grey Gardens but you know...with arabs in Ohio. Melissa’s a horror movie fanatic, a junk scavenger, and a lover of all things weird, creepy, and haunted.


DAUPHINETTE - OLIVIA CHENG

Olivia Cheng

Olivia Cheng

Olivia_sRosebudDesk1_590x.png

Dauphinette was founded in 2018 by Olivia Cheng, debuting with one-of-a-kind, Made-in-New York outerwear from recycled and byproduct fur and leather, vintage, and artisanal components. Cheng has since grown the brand to include handbags and accessories, plus a tightly conceptualized selection of ready-to-wear. The result is a dreamy collection of complex, optimistic, storied pieces-- a feeling Cheng hopes to inspire in our wearers.

In French, Dauphin refers to the king's eldest son, i.e. heir to the throne. Coupled with the traditionally feminine suffix -ette, this symbol of the old feudalistic order takes on new agency.


STOVER GLASS - LISA GLOVER

Lisa Glover

Lisa Glover

I have always been an active artist. Whether it is drawing, painting, beading, writing, cooking or photography. I love physical and mental challenges thru art. When I was introduced to glass blowing I immediately knew this was for me. I found a challenging and physical art form. Glass blowing is like no other medium. Molten glass is always fluid and moving, then suddenly cold and wanting to break. Mental awareness and finesse are always at play along with dedication and determination.

I was introduced to glass blowing in 1996, in Teton Valley Idaho. After I took a workshop at Heron Glass I wanted to learn more. I enrolled at Penland School of Craft, in North Carolina to hone my skills. I studied under Richard Jolley, Tom Philabaum and Laura Donefer. I then returned to Teton Valley to work for Heron Glass for the next ten years. During this time I have also worked with artists in Southern and Northern California.

Glass is my passion! There are so many ways to work the material; when it’s cold, molten, warm, broken or recycled. Glass can be transformed in many ways.

ESSENCE OF ASE - CAMILLE FANFAIR

Camille Fanfair

Camille Fanfair

The brand was created a few years ago after Camille -- an individual diagnosed with lupus -- experienced one of the most extreme flare ups in her 13 year battle with the autoimmune disease which affects five million people worldwide. In the midst of that flare-up she recognized the beneficial effects of particular scents in her immediate environment. This inspired the thought: why not create a product in which these scents can be intentionally infused. That initial product was a scented candle which gave her a heightened positive mood, enhanced relaxation and wellness. Subsequently other people, enticed by the aroma of the candles started submitting requests. With the word-of-mouth popularity of the candles gaining lightening momentum, Camille put more focused attention on developing products for sale. Camille stepped out of her comfort zone thus giving birth to Essence of ASE! ASE, is a concept of manifesting through intention and voice derived from the Yoruba culture.  It is ASE that enables us to manifest our desire through setting clear intentions and then speaking it into existence. Thus, Camille used her own Ase and created a total of 65 products which now include body scrubs, Aromatherapy oils, Incenses and aura sprays. Camille also provides expert crystal reiki therapy and facilitates wellness workshops.

These small brands are all led by visionary women designers who create small batch productions that take in mind; sustainability, the environment, their local communities, raw materials and a unique artistic vision which is aesthetically yet functional for home decor.

By Natalie Rivera









Valentines Day 2021 Gift Guide →

Local artisanal Valentines Day gifts for 2021.

Read More

Design Theft

The Local Artisan Guide

Design Theft

Last night Ivanka Trump walked onto the stage to the tune of "Here Comes the Sun" (much to the dismay and disapproval of George Harrison's estate) and while she spoke on behalf of how her father Donald Trump was going to make "America Great Again" and his plan to help small businesses, we thought it very hypocritical of Ivanka Trump as her lifestyle brand has been guilty on occasion of practicing the same corrupt methods of her father. Many small business will attest to how the Trump Organization will use their services and then pay a small percentage of their invoice if anything at all causing many businesses to practically collapse or have to let go of employees. Trump Organization assumes that small businesses do not have the funds for a long protracted law suit and bully their clients into accepting little or no pay for their services. Ivanka Trump is apparently a chip off the old block as her brand has been publicly called out and has a few lawsuits against them for design theft.

Ivanka Trump entering and addressing the RNC to George Harrison's "Here Comes the Sun". More like "Here comes Trouble".

Ivanka Trump entering and addressing the RNC to George Harrison's "Here Comes the Sun". More like "Here comes Trouble".

One of the problems of being a local artisan in today’s world is design theft.

Having worked in the corporate retail fashion industry for almost twenty years in the production and product development arena, this site is familiar with the workings of how large fashion brands create and develop their product. 

In the first stage of designing a collection for larger brands the designer is sent on a shopping trip for aspiration and inspiration samples (i.e. other brand’s products). Some brands send their designers on adventures to be inspired by nature, cultures and architecture. However most brands go to Europe or Asia and shop for items of clothing, accessories or jewelry that will be part of their samples for inspiration. 

A good designer would take one aspect of something they found on their trip and elevate and/or appropriate the idea to make it their own and within the aesthetics of their brands. It could be a pattern from an expensive piece of vintage wear, a dress from another brand, a piece of jewelry or a button from a low cost brand. Researching on the internet or catalogues has made seeing what is being offered globally much easier for most brands. The design team then creates inspiration boards which reflect trends, materials and color palettes that everyone has agreed to work from to form a cohesive style statement.

However especially in the last few years we are seeing well known brands that are high end or brands that specialize in mass production at low price points blatantly steal the ideas and designs of smaller, local artisans. Brands such as Zara, Banana Republic, H&M, Ivanka Trump and ASOS have knocked off designs of smaller brands without even changing much of the original design. Its not designing just another nude pump or t-shirt, it’s very intricate designs that are being copied detail by detail.

I have heard from many smaller brands that they do not let in other brands in their showrooms or even let buyers or merchandisers come in as they just steal their ideas and designs and have them created elsewhere. This isn’t only for clothing, its footwear, accessories, home decor, jewelry plus other areas of design. Many smaller brands are vulnerable to other designers just coming into their shops and downright stealing their ideas and designs.

These larger brands have access to legal teams and count on the “grey area” of stealing intellectual property from other brands. They rely on the fact that for the most part the local artisan does not have a budget for a legal team to sue for design infringement. Due to this atmosphere there is rampant theft of intellectual property that does not go challenged in the design world domestically and internationally.

While many may appreciate seeing a Gucci or Balmain knockoff in Zara now within reach of their budget they are ignorant that they, the customer contribute to the problem. They remain unaware that many (not all) of the designs they are purchasing are not original and hurt the business of the original designer whether it is high end couture or local artisans. 

Much of the blame can be laid at the hands of the venture capitalist who have acquired most of the well known brands you recognize. These investors don’t want to hear that fashion is fickle, they want a return on their investment and for them part of that is laying a very structured design process that doesn’t breed originality. They want a sure deal. Their buyers, sales teams and merchandisers have numbers on what worked and what didn’t so the design team starts out with limits placed upon them even before the design process begins. There are very few brands today that are design driven instead of merchant driven. The big business of corporate fashion is one of the reasons there are so many local artisans out there as they left corporate fashion to design their own lines and bring originality back to their trade. 

With the advent of social media, it has been a great tool to put a spotlight on when these infringements happen. Just recently the very artisanal Italian shoe brand Aquazzura has decided to take legal action against the Ivanka Trump brand for blatantly stealing their footwear designs. The style in question is very intricate and it was copied in its entirety. Of course in typical Trump fashion they denied they copied Aquazzura’s design however since the design was quite original Aquazzura feel they have a good case against Ivanka Trump and ask to cease and desist and take the product off the shelves (the main action a brand asks another brand to do when there is design infringement). The Ivanka Trump line also in the past was taken to task by Derek Lam for copying a footwear design that was quite original and not to be mistaken as a design coincidence. 

Here is an example of Ivanka Trump's brand blatantly stealing from the smaller more artisan Italian artisan brand Aquazzura.

Here is an example of Ivanka Trump's brand blatantly stealing from the smaller more artisan Italian artisan brand Aquazzura.

What is curious about this particular Aquazzura style is that Zara, Banana Republic and ASOS also copied this design yet they have not been sued as of now for design infringement. Aquazzura also is currently suing Marc Fisher for design infringement for another style that again was quite original and hard to believe it was a design coincidence. 

One of the problems with corporate fashion and design is that most brands follow very similar processes and trend reports which makes it definitely plausible to have designs that are very similar. If you walk down Broadway now in Soho nearly every mainstream brand has white eyelet clothing and dresses with men’s shirting patterns in similar color palettes. This design process is what the larger brands are counting on for their defense legally as to why their designs are similar to others.

Ironically no one gets as upset or puts more money to stop being copied than the larger, well known retail brands as so much of their production is made in China. The counterfeit problem there is of massive proportions as the Chinese love owning well known brands. There are plazas in China that resemble upscale malls where all the product is actually all counterfeit. The brands get very upset and invest a lot of money to try and prevent factories from copying and distributing “their designs” as they rightly resent the lost of potential revenue. However that is exactly how the local artisan and smaller brands feel too when their designs are copied.

My recommendation for smaller artisans when they see their designs copied by other brands (especially their more intricate, original designs) are to send a cease and desist letter to the brand and use social media to highlight the design infringement. Once its out in social media that a certain brand is stealing designs it is hard to get rid of that reputation and these days reputation is everything. 

In the meantime feel free to let The Local Artisan Guide know when this happens and we will be more than happy to shine a light on the matter. If we don’t let them get away with it in the first place this will be a diminishing problem in the design world however we all need to work together in the first place. And to the general public, as a customer you need to take on your responsibility of not shopping in places that you know are guilty of design theft. As for designers, wouldn’t you rather your work be an original? As Oscar Wilde use to say, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”