VALENTINES DAY GIFT GUIDE FOR HIM

We did our choices for HER for Valentines Day, now we are going to do our blog for Valentines Day Gifts for HIM from The Local Artisan Guide. We have chosen five gift ideas that range in categories and price points yet are romantic, thoughtful, artisanal and unique. We know he will appreciate that you think he is original enough to shop artisanal.

Ellis Brooklyn, Super Amber Eau de Parfum

Ellis Brooklyn, Super Amber Eau de Parfum, $105

This Brooklyn based perfume brand has created an amazing scent that can definitely be unisex in nature. Super Amber can best be described as:

Ever imagined perfume as a texture? Meet SUPER AMBER, a cozy, super warm, addictive scent that envelops like a cashmere blanket on warm bare skin. SUPER AMBER is the beautiful marriage of cutting edge olfactive technology (made with minimal environmental and social impact) and clean perfumery (it’s free of fragrance allergens). Unlike traditional fragrances, SUPER AMBER is not structured with top, middle and base notes. Rather it blooms once it interacts with your skin's own unique chemistry. It's unlike any perfume you've smelled.

What we love about this locally made in the USA perfume brand is the amount of eco-friendly responsibility that goes in creating their scents. It scores a AAA rating (green, social impact, environmental impact) for the EcoScent Compass, it is PETA certified vegan and cruelty free, the scent uses up cycled Virginia Cedarwood with a biodegradable musk. The bottle is composed of glass and can be reused or recycled. Remove cap and any spray parts, including the dip tube. Rinse out glass portion and reuse or recycle. It has a Bakelite Compression Cap: This cap is biodegradable and contains no petrochemicals.

Ghylain Rouge Chocolate Heart Box

Ghylain Rouge Chocolate Heart Box, $37.75

Originally from Québec, Canada, Ghyslain Maurais found his culinary passion while working in the field to fund his architectural education. Soon after, he changed career paths and became a renowned French pastry chef specializing also in chocolate décor, candy making, blown/pulled sugar and bread making. He relocated to his wife’s hometown of Union City, Indiana to establish Ghyslain Chocolatier. We love his original Rouge milk chocolate heart box that includes six of Ghyslain’s Valentine hearts, presented in a window box with red satin bow and watercolor tag. The chocolate heart flavors include:

Mango Margarita, Coconut Rum, Peach Daquiri, Jivara, Chocolate Raspberry and French Vanilla.

They can be ordered on the website and delivered straight to your loved one’s door. Hearts within a big red chocolate heart is the gift that keeps on giving.

Macha, Men's Square Signet Ring Hallmarked

Macha, Men’s Square Signet Ring Hallmarked, $365

Brooklyn based jewelry designer Bernice Kelly's is originally from Northern Ireland which has had an enduring influence on her approach to jewelry design from Ireland’s rugged landscapes and the warmth and tenacity of its culture. She has designed a collection of jewelry for men called “The Men’s Room” where her signature Signet rings date letter collection utilizes a strong British tradition which requires precious metals to be officially stamped. A symbol represents the metal the piece is created in, and the date letter represents the year it was made, by law only available for that particular year, there being a 26 year wait before this letter can be marked again. Classic large square signet ring in sterling silver with British hallmarks. The Lion represents Sterling Silver. 'X' is the hallmark for 2022. Specifications for this signet ring are:

Sterling silver. Face of ring measures at 11mm x 13mm. Band is 5.5mm at back

Kempton and Co. Brass Stud Freddie Pouchette

Kempton and Co. Brass Stud Freddie Pouchette, $68

Kempton and Co., a handbag and leather goods brand founded by English designer Fiona Kempton who based her brand in Red Hook, Brooklyn offers plenty of Valentines Day gift options for him and that includes this Brass Stud Freddie Pouchette. In a buttery soft cowhide leather, the Freddie Pouchette can hold a passport, checkbook, or notepad holder offers an urban chic edge with a row of distressed brass studs down the center. Add a vintage pen for the ultimate gift. The pouchette includes:

Buttery soft cowhide leather exterior

• Soft cotton twill interior

• Solid brass clasp and studs that get better with age. We think the tarnish looks lovely. Prefer it shiny? No problem, it buffs up in seconds.

• 5.5” x 7”

Santa Maria Novella, Shaving Foam

Santa Maria Novella, Shaving Foam $28

The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella from Florence, Italy plants its roots back to 1221. Creating multiple products for men’s and women’s beauty and skincare for hundreds of years now, the Shaving Foam is a special way to contribute to your loved one’s skincare routine. This moisturizing shaving foam is enriched with plant oils, for all skin types and mildly scented with Tabacco Toscano cologne. He’ll be forever grateful you have unearthed this product for his manscaping ways.

Clicking onto the title links will bring you to the products website featured in this blog. We feel very strongly that your man will enjoy and appreciate the unique gifts you were able to procure for him this Valentine’s Day that are artisanal and as unique and wonderful as you think he is too.

By Natalie Rivera

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 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'S TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE - DAY TWO: JEWELRY

On day two of The Local Artisan Guide Twelve Days of Christmas Holiday Gift Guide we are featuring six local and international artisan jewelers with influences from Italy, Japan, Thailand, Holland and New York. We chose small independent jewelry brands that range in all price points that not only have a unique vision in their creations but work to create ethical and sustainable collections. We have chosen pieces from their collections as gift recommendation however we encourage you to research and do a deeper dive into their creations.

JUDITH HAAS $$-$$$

“Half Moon Mondrian Necklace”, $180

Dutch fine artisan and artisanal jewelry designer Judith Haas creates unique pieces that reflect her diverse art background . Born in Holland, Judith Haas now lives and works in her studio in Brooklyn creating a collection of jewelry and fine art. Our selection is inspired by fellow Dutch artist Piet Mondrian and is entitled “Half Moon Mondrian Necklace”. It is fine silver partially oxidized, with 24k gold leaf pendant. 15 inch Sterling Silver chain with 2.5 inch extension chain ( 17.5 inch total) Ask for costume made length. Haas creations are surprisingly affordable and a great gift for lovers of art.

NAKAMOL $-$$

“Paloma Statement Earrings”, $42

Thai jewelry designer Nakamol creates pieces that are made by the over 200 Thai family and friends artisans in her native Thailand. The “Paloma Statement Earrings” are dazzling statement earrings that gives oomph to your casuals.  Materials: faceted crystal, lapis, agate, wire hook. Measurements: 3" drop. Nakamol creates a beautiful collection that is very affordable.

ILENIA CORTI VERNISSAGE $$$-$$$$

“Limbo Cuff Bracelet”, Price Upon Request

Italian jewelry designer Ilenia Corti Vernissage is a fine jewelry and accessories designer. She grew up in a family of artisanal jewelry designers and her creations have crossed into the world where fashion meets nature. Her maximalist style is full of color and precise detail where the beauty of nature is transformed into eye catching creations. Here we have a piece from her “Attendiamo Amore” collection, an intricate mix of golden skulls, snakes, gemstones and floras. The name of the cuff bracelet is “Limbo Cuff Bracelet” Price upon request.

KATAOKA $$$-$$$$

“Diamond Snowflake Ring-Old Mine”, $19,860

Japanese goldsmith artisan Yoshinobu Kataoka is a master jewelry designer whose creations are sparkly minimalist masterpieces made in Tokyo. Although his designs may be minimal, they visually pack a punch. We see that in “Diamond Snow Flake Ring-Old Mine” The description for this ring is as follows, “A Winter’s Timeless Love Affair. With its captivating, beaming, icy white, old mine-cut diamond nestled in the center, surrounded by a sweeping halo of brilliant tiny diamonds and accents on the fine milgrain-edged band, the Diamond Snowflake Ring–Old Mine enchants the hearts of true lovers of winter’s serene flawless beauty. Reminiscent of the sophisticated style of the 1800s, this one-of-a-kind piece brings back the class and elegance of those golden old days.”

Ref: ka0148ab

• Band: width 1 mm thickness 2 mm

• Diamond (center) 0.695 ct. G color, clarity SI1, Old Mine cut.

• Diamond (total) 0.945 ct.

• Picture: 18k beige gold

DESIDERI DESIGNS $$

“Capri Blue Ring”, $255

Rome to NYC transplant, Claudia Desideri is the artisan jewelry designer behind Desideri Designs. Her jewelry collection is unique in that she specializes in Swarovski crystals and gold or silver metal intwined wire. The pieces are colorful and range from minimal to statement within the collection. “Capri Blue” is a conglomeration of Desideri’s Italian heritage and many travels to the Mediterranean Sea. The pieces are very affordable especially for their unique beauty and quality.

Aquamarine , metallic blue Swarovski crystals

• available with or without Turquoise stone

• Sterling silver wire band

• Made in NYC

JACTO $$

“N/S Jaw Necklace”, $395

Jacto is a sustainable, ethical jewelry brand handmade in NYC that uses ethically sourced upcycled fish bones with nickel-free recycled metals. The creator, jewelry designer Melanie Maggio was inspired by discarded seafood waste to create a highly specific, unisex jewelry collection. “N/S Jaw Necklace” is a necklace that was made from an upcycled jawbone from a barracuda. Made with 14K gold-filled bezel and chain. These one of a kind items are custom made to order and can be customized if you wish to add special requests and/or engraving. The collection is affordable especially since it is made in NYC and sustainable.

These six jewelry brands have a wide variety of aesthetics, prices, materials and purposes. What they all have in common is that they are led by the heart of an artisan. We encourage you to explore their collections more fully (just click on the captions for their websites) and consider them as holiday gifts for your loved ones (or yourself).

By Natalie Rivera

Thoughtful and Unique Mother's Day Gifts for Mom

The Local Artisan Guide has come out with its annual Mother’s Day Gifts guide that will help you chose thoughtful, unique gifts that are made by artisans and small independent brands that care passionately about their work, their workers, their products and the earth. We have chosen an array of categories from fashion, accessories, perfumes, beauty, home decor, jewelry, flowers, footwear, sweets and more. If you want to show your mother that she is your hero and deserves a gift that shows how special she is to you, then this is the guide is for you. So click onto the caption and the link will bring you to the website. All recommendations are available online.

Patent of Heart, Blue Eye white handbag, The history of the ‘Evil Eye’ dates back to Ancient Greece, where it was believed to be a protective symbol. $224. Available online.

Global Table, Mini Porcelain vase set of three, Matte pink with shiny glaze interior. Pale and pretty high quality porcelain. $66. Available online or at Global Table, Soho, NYC.

John Robshaw, Vayan Robe, Wonderfully woven in India and free of harmful chemicals, lightweight cotton, $125. Available online.

Rothy’s Black Cap Toe Flat Shoes, Knit from Rothy’s signature thread (spun from plastic water bottles), available online and Rothy’s, West Village, NYC, $125.

Fueguia 1833 Patagonia, La Bonita, $320, 100ML, African and South American roots intangle in this exotic mix of scents and flavours; maracuja and spices, evoking the rhythm and cadence of a Latin woman.​ Available online and at Fueguia 1833 Patagonia, Soho, NYC.

Fedko Bouquet Cocktail Ring, $9,500, One of a kind movement cocktail ring created by master jeweler Evgeny Fedko. 18k Yellow Gold, Yellow Sapphires & Rubies Pave, Citrines & Amethysts. Size 7. All other sizes must be custom made. Available online or at The Atelier D’Emotion. Soho, NYC.

Custom greeting cards by Pointy Pen Cards, DM Pointy_Pen_cards on Instagram by Michael Mendoza

Custom floral bouquets designed by Doan Ly, price upon request

Sunia K, Sabrah-Powerful, precious & pure prickly pear seed oil, $197 available online

Cuyana, Lightweight cashmere scarf, $190, available online and at Guyana, Nolita, NYC

Lord Jones Raspberry Elderflower CBD Gumdrops, $50 available online or at The Alchemist Kitchen

Naghedi, St. Barths Mini Tote, handwoven neoprene, $210 available online

We know your mother will love anything you give her but she will definitely tell her friends you are her favorite if you chose any of the magnificent gifts recommended in our gift guide. However in the end, quality time and telling your mom you love her and she is the best mom in the world will always be on the top of her gift list.

By Natalie Rivera

Celebrating Women Artisan Jewelry Designers for International Women's Month

With March nominated as the month to celebrate women and their achievements (yes I know shouldn’t it be half the year at least, women are Half the Sky) The Local Artisan Guide has decided every week this month to highlight some women artisans in different categories starting with jewelry designers from around the world that you might not know about but are worth knowing. 

We chose ten women jewelry designers who work in a range from a new twist on the traditional to contemporary to spiritual to cultural pride. There is a plethora of raw materials, stones, crystals, metals, price points and traditions explored by all these jewelers. The spectacular talent these female artisans have in their art form and imagination when it comes to jewelry is worth highlighting in a category where most of the product is worn by women.  More so as many of the jewelers below also explore ways to make their work sustainable, ethical and give back to their communities.

Polly Wales

Polly Wales

Madeira Skull Ring, $15,400

Encrusted skull with purple, blue, and black sapphires and brown diamonds on a large face skull.

Kindly Note: Each piece is unique, one-of-a-kind and unpredictable -- the product of a specialized manufacturing process that we've developed over many years. It is the heart and soul of the Cast-Not-Set process and the Polly Wales style. Stone colors may vary slightly. Metal: 18K Yellow Gold, Stones: Sapphires & Diamonds.

Polly Wales is the Creative Director and Founder of her eponymous brand of fine jewelry. Polly was born in London and gravitated towards the arts from a very young age. She studied sculpture in University and later taught art to juvenile offenders. However, she discovered her real passion when she began to design jewelry, making intimate wearable sculptures. She went back to school to study Jewelry Design at the Royal College of Art, where her naturally anarchic spirit combined with classical training to inspire the creation her signature “cast-not-set” process.

Casting gemstones directly into molten gold has enabled her to push the boundaries of traditional fine jewelry and produce unique collections year after year. In 2016, Polly moved the company from the rolling hills of the English countryside to the sunny grit of Downtown Los Angeles where the company is now based. She currently lives in a treasure trove of curiosities in the hills of East Los Angeles

Anna Sheffield

Anna Sheffield

HAZELINE SOLITAIRE RING

14k Gold & Blackened Rutilated Quartz, $2,850

8mm blackened rutilated quartz center with 0.03ctw small black diamond accents set in 14k recycled yellow, rose, or white gold.

Please note that gemstones are natural materials and therefore each stone is unique. The Hazeline is a cornerstone of the Anna Sheffield ceremonial jewelry collection. A classic style with a delicate silhouette, this timeless design is based on a ring belonging to Anna’s grandmother. Envisioned here in a solitaire style with the same detailed basket and slender shank, the Hazeline is the perfect ‘heirloom-to-be.

Anna Sheffield’s childhood in the Southwest has had an enduring influence on her work, setting the stage for a lifelong interest in natural beauty, spirituality, and all forms of art and design—from architecture to indigenous crafts. These diverse interests led her to pursue a degree in sculpture. After moving to New York City, Anna shifted her attention to jewelry, drawing upon her Fine Art fundamentals to create a singular style—elegant, irreverent, and truly original.

Claudia Desideri - Desideri Designs

Claudia Desideri

Crown Hook Earrings $175

Inspired by Classical jewelry  Crown hook earrings are a true beauty. All Swarovski crystal beads are individually hand-stitched. Try pairing  with our crown studs for an edgier look . Material Finishing. Emerald green and Metallic rose gold Swarovski crystals beads. 14K gold filled , 4 cm long.

Desideri design is NYC based jewelry brand founded by Roman born Claudia Desideri. Since her early age, she’s always been interested in Art and Drama and had an affinity for artistic design. After graduating at the Istituto Nazionale D'arte in Rome she moved to New York, where she attended the Lee Strasberg film and theatre institute. Her passionate creativity and love for Art and Nature finally converge in 2004, when she founded Desideri Design. Since then, she has been creating luxurious, classy but still wearable pieces of jewelry which combine both “hard” and “soft” elements, organic and futuristic materials, geometrical Minimalism and sparkling Baroque. Her collection of rings, necklaces and earrings are all unique pieces made using Swarovski crystals, natural stones and fresh water pearls.

Judith Haas

Judith Haas

Persian Necklace, $275.00

Fine Silver (.99)  partially oxidized, with 24k gold leaf pendant. 15 inch fine gold filled chain with 2.5 inch extension chain ( 17.5 inch total) Ask for costume made length. Pendant is 2x1 1/4 inch. One of a kind

Dutch artist Judith Haas creates jewelry and fine art using gold, silver, bronze and semi precious stones. Her work is characterized by finely crafted textures and unfinished surfaces in contrast with colorful patinas that reflect her passion for art and design history and the industrial environment surrounding her Williamsburg Brooklyn studio.

Ms. Haas received a Masters degree in Physiology from the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU). She has devoted herself to her art career since 2003 and has exhibited at galleries and boutiques widely including Harvey Nichols Hong Kong, Hankyu, Tokyo.

Yanina Faour - Oleana Jewelry

Yanina Faour

Citric Sun Mandala Pendant $218.80

In sterling silver, with yellow gold plating, enamel and crystals. Representing the union between the sacred and the earthly world, mandalas are deeply meditative symbols that harmonize chakras and have a positive effect on those who wear them.

Oleana jewelry is handcrafted in Buenos Aires and designed by Yanina Faour, fourth generation of jewelers, inspired in the architecture and fine arts that identify the magic of her hometown, Buenos Aires.

Yanina Faour launched her own brand, Oleana in 2003, combining the high quality craftsmanship of her ancestors with a fresh and modern aesthetic. What sets Oleana apart its is fine jewelry collections in silver and 18K gold, with influences ranging from architecture to spirituality, to be worn at different times of the day. Ind addition to being a young businesswoman and mother, Yanina is a mentor and has an affinity and interest in the development of the female entrepreneur at all levels. She herself is a fellow of the Vital Voices Organization and the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women In Business program.

Marielise Lachapelle

Marielise Lachapelle

Malachite Necklace. This necklace featuring a malachite stone, is quite versatile as those three genuine rose leaves coated in gold, are designed to slide through the center of the stone so you can adjust the length. The stone is approximately 2” long but the shape will vary slightly with each piece. Many other stones available. Price upon request.

New York based artist Marie-Lise Lachapelle grew up in the green suburbs of Montreal. Her love of nature, fashion, and the influence of her entrepreneurial parents have culminated into a successful career designing stunning jewelry. She creates custom high impact jewelry and a variety of collections using organic elements and shapes. Her unique combinations of flowers, precious metals, and stones, have garnered her international attention and is a favorite for editorials, celebrities and fans of her jewelry around the world

Jane D’Arensbourg

Jane D’Arensbourg

BLACK BUBBLE NECKLACE $1,500

Jet black glass bubble, sculptural bib necklace. This is a big show stopping unique statement necklace. One of a kind. Chain length 24” x 3/8”. Sculptural bubble bib size 7”x6”. Sterling silver clasp.

Brooklyn based designer Jane D'Arensbourg began working with glass early in her career as an artist and became greatly inspired by the unique properties of the medium, particularly as a vehicle to capture light, energy and fragility. .Jane D’Arensbourg launched her glass jewelry designs in 2002 in New York City. 

In her studio, D’Arensbourg's process starts with raw, durable, borosilicate glass rods that are transformed with a torch free form. Using heat and gravity to shape the glass, the designer handcrafts one-of-a-kind sculptural jewelry. With each piece, D'Arensbourg honors the fragility and inherent elegance of the material, creating timeless and unique jewelry. Borosilicate glass is one of the most shock resistant glass available which results in it being a surprisingly wearable material. Jane D’Arensbourg views her jewelry as functional art. A ring can function as a sculptural object sitting in your home waiting to be worn and experienced in another way. 

Jane D'Arensbourg has exhibited her artwork and jewelry in museums and galleries internationally. Her work can be found in esteemed stock lists from New York to Japan as well as in the permanent collection of The Museum of Art Design, New York.

Ilenia Corti Vernissage

Ilenia Corti

Blue Imperial Moth Necklace $1,920

Sleek, sculptural and dynamic, this deftly crafted necklace has a bold, modern aesthetic that will complement a modern and casual outfit. Handcrafted of 925 silver, it has a distinctive princess neckline composed entirely of realistic imperial moth charms of varying dimensions. The moth's slender wings are finished with a midnight-blue enamel, creating a smooth, elegant texture that resembles that of stones. This exceptional necklace will elevate the style and allure of any ensemble and modern jewelry collection. Lobster claw clasp. Available also in brass upon request.

Ilenia Corti grew up in a family of jewelers and worked as a fashion accessories designer for high luxury companies all over the world. She created Vernissage inspired by the world of nature, and the tension between the childlike awe we feel in front of its small and enchanting phenomena and the pragmatism of the adult world. The uniqueness and strong creative identity of her work has earned the enthusiastic response of authoritative magazines. Each piece is handmade by the expert craftsmen of the Santagostino company, leader in this field and owned by the Corti family.

Sewit Sium

Sewit Sium

ETERNITY SNAKE CUFF $150

The snake is symbol of transformation and renewal, as it has the ability to shed its own skin when it outgrows it. For thousands of years, the snake has been utilized as a symbol of transformation and renewal, as it has the ability to shed its own skin when it outgrows it. 18K gold plated brass. Snake is 3/16" (4mm) wide. Cuff is adjustable. Availability: Handmade to order in New York.

Jeweler and educator Sewit Sium has been crafting powerful jewelry imbued with living African history for over a decade. Prior to starting her company in 2015 of the same name, she taught Fashion Activism and Design in various NYC High schools. “I used jewelry - the oldest form of decorative arts as an educational tool, as primary document to teach predominantly Black students about their living African lineage, the world and their place in it. The goal is that they view their creations as well as their bodies as sites of knowledge transmission. I want them to internalize that their creations will outlast them, to see themselves as leaders and agents of change who can transform the world of image making authority.” 

Sewit’s mission and approach extends to her design practice that she hopes will be adopted by institutions such as the fashion industry, museums and design colleges alike. “it’s important for me to get as indigenous and specific as possible via symbols and motifs, I know the optimal power of jewelry is unlocked when attached to its origin story and makers - to bodies.”  Sewit's goal is to create initiatives that serve the reclamation and activation of indigenous objects. “Jewelry is a point of departure, but this is about people and ideas and those who lay claim should get to decide how their culture is accurately interpreted and shared.” Sewit is dedicated to decolonizing the way jewelry is engaged with, “together we can restore it to its rightful place - as documentation, a stunning object of desire and daring catalyst for change”. 

Sewit completed her MA at NYU Tisch, where her thesis was entitled Activation: Jewelry and the Body, Sites and Tools for Liberation. 

Sewit's jewelry has been featured in Elle, Vogue, Bazaar, Town & Country, Vanity Fair Magazines. She created various costume design pieces for HBO Insecure as well as feature films such as Coming 2 America. 

Mia Hebib - Oblik Atelier

OBLIK ATELIER MOBIUS EARRINGS $200

Mobius Earrings, brass plated in 14k gold

Mia Hebib started in jewelry at the School for Applied Arts and Design in Zagreb, Croatia. Upon resettling in the United States, she attended the Savannah College of Art and Design where she received a BFA in jewelry and metalsmithing. Besides running Oblik Atelier, Mia has been instrumental in re-launching Robert Lee Morris collection as well as launching multiple high- profile fashion brands like AllSaints and Coach wholesale line. Mia has also mentored at PRATT Institute, 92nd Street Y and SCAD.

Mia creates conversation pieces and her mission is to elevate jewelry from simply existing as an accessory to becoming a wearable sculpture, an objet d'art.

Mia's studio "Oblik" means "shape/form" in Croatian and the name is echoed in each created piece. Oblik Atelier is on a quest to define the most elegant and clean line and thrust that line through a three-dimensional metamorphosis.

Oblik Atelier jewelry marries traditional metalsmithing techniques to timeless designs via fold forming, fabricating and forging techniques. Each piece is hand bend to conform to the body. Surfaces are smooth, architectural, sculptural, sinuous, voluptuous and polished.  Jewelry is made in brass and finished with gold or rhodium plating.

All the above mentioned women jewelers come from around the world yet all find a way to uniquely express their vision of jewelry thus creating wearable art. Women creating for other women, a wearable badge of how a woman can express their aesthetic to the rest of the world through the media of metals and precious stones.

The Local Artisan Guide will feature a blog every week for the month of March on a different category celebrating women artisans and highlighting their contributions to the world.

By Natalie Rivera

The Local Artisan Guide Presents Black Friday Picks In a 2020 Covid World

In a Covid world The Local Artisan Guide has had to rethink some of our strategies and our mission in connecting local artisans with those who seek their products as many of these small brands have unfortunately either have closed for good, relocated or are now operating solely online. 

The last few months The Local Artisan Guide has been hitting the pavement to update our index of small brands and artisans that have managed to maintain their brick and mortar stores during these difficult times when lockdown has been the death knell for so many businesses both large and small around the world. We have researched and updated where many small brands have relocated and currently we are now focusing on brands that operate solely online. 

The Local Artisan Guide has from the beginning featured brick and mortar stores of small brands and artisans from around the world. It is a very niche aspiration fueled by an audience of philocalist around the world who love travel, beauty, art and fine craftsmanship. Our devotees currently cannot travel freely and explore the world as they were able to in the past, so for now The Local Artisan Guide is fast forwarding our plan to also feature brands that either operate solely online or open seasonal pop up stores/markets. In a Covid and even in a post Covid world having an online presence is now essential to keep small brands and artisans going and our recommendations below are going to represent both categories. 

The twenty one brands and artisans in this post are tried and true and include all price points. They are located in New York City, London, Scotland, Paris and Rome. In the turbulent year of 2020 our objective is to connect the artisan and the stagnant philocalist in a mutually satisfying enterprise whilst shopping in a safe and responsible manner. Please be aware some of the brick and mortar stores mentioned in this post may be temporary closed due to lockdown however their online sites are still operating.

ONLINE BRANDS

Laos Dome Earrings, $130

ARTICLE 22 offers these earrings are the definition of sustainable: environmentally, they are upcycled from shrapnel and debris, culturally, they are made by fair trade Laotian artisans who developed this craft technique in the 1970s, and socially, men and women work side byside at homemade earthen kilns in their gardens.

Frida Champagne Necklace, $165

DESIDERI DESIGNS is a jewelry brand created by Roman native turned New Yorker Claudia Desideri. Exquisitely handcrafted in her Manhattan studio each piece of jewelry is unique and one-of-a-kind. Only using high quality materials like the gorgeous and luxury Swarovski crystals and precious metals. Desideri Designs go beyond industry standard to offer silver, gold and crystals with daring designs that reflect a sense of beauty, and craftsmanship.

Deluxe Piper Brew Kit, $139

PIPER & LEAF TEA is a family run local tea company creating gourmet blends that are simply divine to sip iced on a steamy summer night, or hot on a long winter evening, and serving the joy, are their passions. Based in North Alabama, their teas are blended with as many local ingredients as possible, straight from the garden, farm, forest, and briar patch.

In My Heart Keyring, $25

PATENT OF HEART is a leatherwear brand created by Turkish designer Elif Akaydin. Patent of Heart works hard to create stylish sustainable leather goods that give back to woman causes. Our Heart shaped keychain goes with just about everything! Its great for your car, home keys, your purse or a great gift! The leather feels soft to touch yet sturdy in shape. It comes with a a small 14K gold plated heart charm attached to the key ring.

Sunshine Lightpack, $41

SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE is a brand that works with artisans in Mexico, mostly women. The Sunshine Lightpack is 40% lighter than the average bag, and can also be rolled to take up less space than a Chipotle burrito 🌯 This is all thanks to a traditional technique – perfected by the artisans of Oaxaca, Mexico – that threads material tighter than any industrial machine. Be nimble, be quick! This pack flies off the shelf.

Gold Antenna Ring, $480 Oxidized Sterling Silver with 6 14k recycled gold balls.

JUDITH HAAS is a Dutch jewelry designer and fine artist based in New York. Judith specializes in using gold, silver, bronze and semi precious stones. Her work is characterized by finely crafted textures and unfinished surfaces in contrast with colorful patinas that reflect her passion for art and design history and the industrial environment surrounding her Williamsburg Brooklyn studio.

Miriam Organic Bluebell Soap, 6.95 English Pounds

HIGHGROVE GARDENS. It was our binge watching of season 4 of “The Crown” that led us to this pick. Curious to see what Prince Charles grows in his organic gardens at his home in Highgrove, we discovered an array of specialized botanical products. Their soaps will Infuse your bathroom or cloakroom with the delicate fragrance of bluebells with this luxury triple-milled soap. Made from pure vegetable oil, it gives a wonderfully rich and moisturising lather to leave skin feeling beautifully clean, soft and lightly scented. Part of Highgrove’s Miriam range, the soap is wrapped in paper printed with our specially commissioned floral design. Created by London artist and former Liberty designer Sally Kelly, it is a wonderful interpretation of the myriad flowers and grasses that grow in Highgrove’s Wildflower Meadow. The range takes its name from Dame Miriam Rothschild, a passionate conservationist, who created the original seed mix that was planted in the meadow over 40 years ago.

Orange Flowers Blue Based - Silk Scarf - Large, 150 English Pounds.

BIANCA ELGAR is a British accessories and apparel designer whose designs are made from the finest materials, (mostly are also made in the Britain), they are manufactured by talented craftsmen and women to an impeccable standard. This scarf is a dramatic, oversized 130 cm square scarf.  A versatile style statement! Silkscreen print design, sunshine yellow and bold orange flowers against a tropical blue background contrast with black and white detail. Printed on pure, luxurious silk in rich pigment, it will imbue your look with a dash of art. 100% Silk Twill. Edges are finely pin hemmed.

Twine Light Indigo Kitchen Gift Set, $75

JOHN ROBSHAW TEXTILES is known for his East/West textile bedding designs however his brand also carries great accessories that are sustainable and that included the Recycle Robshaw Collection Limited edition products that are created from repurposed and excess fabric with the goal of reducing textile waste. Stay on the safe side and avoid getting any cranberry sauce on your new holiday threads. This kitchen set, which includes an oven mitt, potholder, and apron, will keep you stylish as you cook for people you may or may not be related to.

Mini Me Cape Shirt, $100 Euros

AFTER MARCH is a project for advocating awareness of unfair practices of the fashion industry. These unique, one-of-a-kind pieces are haute couture up cycled. Mini Me partner look! Made to order. 100% cotton. as ever, high-quality vintage shirts: why preclude the kids from having fun too?

Urban Monk Balm Candle - Cardamom and Star Anise, $28

URBAN MONK LINE line began as an all-purpose gentlemen's balm for hair, beards, hands, and body. Created by Leo Funderburk, it is 100% natural, using pure essential oils, and artisan-crafted in New York. Not only do they use the best ingredients, waste is minimized in the making process for a healthier environment. Urban Monk Balm has expanded their holistic and clean approach to other self-care products and home goods. Shop a full line of exquisitely scented candles, essential oils, perfumes and other products, and feel good about the sustainable way they approach business, the environment, community and personhood.

BRICK & MORTAR

New York

Old English Brandy Dopp Kit, $70.40

KEMPTON & CO. is a heritage brand founded by Fiona Kempton who was inspired by her equestrian and sailing background. She designs bags with gorgeous soft leathers and textiles, combining the utility of equestrian hardware. She prides herself in always maintaining an artistic approach to function; it is a philosophy that the company strives to maintain with every bag. The Old English Collection is made of oiled saddle leather and adorned with our signature handcrafted reclaimed bone & horn toggles.

Bucket Hat, Tagalong, $268

THE HAT SHOP. Watching “Emily in Paris” inspired this pick for a bucket hat done right. Founded by milliner Linda Pagan, The Hat Shop combines the wide selection found in department stores with the custom service of a millinery shop. The shop's collection features its own label as well as the work of up to 15 local milliners.

Botanical Madder Root Face Mask, $28

THE ALCHEMIST KITCHEN is dedicated to connecting you with the power of plants. They work with the finest herbalists who are producing high quality botanical medicines, herbal remedies, and whole plant beauty products. These organic and breathable cotton face masks are designed with two layers of cotton, and useful cotton ribbing for adjustable sizing. Each Mask is naturally dyed with Madder Root. This ancient and abundant perennial dye and its roots have been used for thousands of years to produce beautiful red hues. Each mask is hand-sewn. There are three colors and stock is very limited.

Percy Winter Boot, Vino, $318

ARIANA BOHLING is a Brooklyn based handmade shoe brand. Ariana began making shoes in her studio in Brooklyn beginning with delicately braided Italian leather sandals. Since then she and business partner Alyson Kurtz have expanded production to Peru and Asia in order to maintain quality handmade products produced by local artisans in small workshops. Ariana Bohling believes in fair trade practices that provide good working conditions & livable wages in order to promote sustainability of the artisans, their industry, and the art of handcrafting shoes. To ensure quality standards & working conditions Ariana and Alyson spend time in Peru and Asia to oversee the production and development process of the collection each season. All shoes are handcrafted from 100% leather and all components are sourced locally. All slippers use elements of Alpaca fiber or pelts which are sustainably sourced and cruelty-free. The Percy Winter Boot Smoothis a leather boot that hits just below the calf.  Super soft faux fur lining, inside zip.  3" heel with 1.5" Platform height.  Leather stack heel and treaded rubber platform for extra grip in winter weather.  Rubber Sole.  Fits true to size.

Agua de Gardenia - Skin & Textile, $100

FUEGUIA was founded in 2010 in Buenos Aires by Julian Bedel, Fueguia 1833 is a unique concept in the universe of the worldwide perfumery. The source of inspiration is Argentina, the land being an inexhaustible source of stimuli for creating new fragrances, and the brand being a personal tribute to the history, art, music, and nature that distinguish the vibrant culture of South America. Fueguia BioActive Molecules. Incorporates four types of disinfection into one product working synergically. Stabilized Chlorine dioxide (CIO2), a safe compound known for it's effectives in deactivating SARS-Coronavirus, Antrax, Influenza, Hepatitis B, etc. combined with 45 medicinal plants with a proven biocide effect, 70% organic ethanol and a surfactant (soap) that acts breaking the virus lipid bilayer. We will donate part of our monthly production to the Milano area hospitals. Available in 100ml in our Biophotonic glass bottles.

EUROPE

(Please check to see if store is not temporarily closed due to lockdown)

Kala Ukadelic Flamingo Soprano Ukulele, $35.59

DUKE OF UKE is one of the premier shops around the world dedicated solely to the ukulele. Kala Ukadelic Flamingo Soprano Ukulele is a compact, friendly ukulele made from painted laminated poplar wood, with a bright, cheery sound. Featuring a smooth feeling matte finish, the KalaUK-FLAMINGO has a pine neck with laurel fingerboard and comes with Aquila Super Nylgut Strings. Every Ukadelic ukulele comes with it's own convenient Kala logo drawstring bag. Located in London.

Frankincense & Myrrh Bath Bomb, 3.50 English pounds

ISLE OF MULL SOAP CO. is a family owned bath and body brand that specializes in featuring soaps made with ingredients local to the Hebrides. Besides soaps they also make candles and bath bombs. Can you get any more in the Christmas spirit with a Frankincense and Myrrh Bath Bomb? The shop is located on the Isle of Mull, in the inner Hebrides isle off Scotland.

Early 18th century Italian bed, 44,000 English Pounds.

JOHN FOWLER is a charming antique shop that also offers interior design services. It’s a dream item but we are featuring an early 18th century Italian bed tester covered in blue-braided yellow linen with agave finials, the replacement head curtains and base valance with original braid re-applied. New hand-made mattress and bed base.

Woody Black Optical Eyeglasses, 145 Euro

MONDELIANNI is an Italian independent eyewear brand with stores around Rome that also feature artisan brands made in Italy. The Woody eyewear is part of the The Rigadritto Collection which is characterized by classic shapes revisited in a minimal key and basic colors of white, gold and black. The essence of shapes and design pays homage to great icons of international cinema.

Christmas Coffret from Paris, 156 Euros.

MELODIES GRAPHIQUES is a store renowned for its fine paper and stationery boutiques, It is an especially charming spot to browse its exquisite range of paper, notebooks, greeting cards, bookmarks, sealing wax, ink and calligraphy pens. Owner-calligraphist Eric de Tugny is also an entomologist and sells his intricate insect illustrations in store. This store is located in Paris.

We are excited this very turbulent year to cite these brands for their mastery of craftsmanship, sustainability, what they contribute to the local economy and the stories of how they came to be. Now more than ever is the time to shop local and shop in a responsible manner for the holidays so that these brands may long flourish into the future.

By Natalie Rivera

Father's Day Gifts in the Time of Covid-19 and Upheaval

Father’s Day 2020 is a tricky one. Depending on where you live and your parents health, Father’s Day in the time of Covid-19 in 2020 is proving to be an unorthodox celebration.

Say you are living in an area where there is still a quarantine, the best possible gift to your father is to stay away, especially if he has a health condition. Dad hugs are great but even better is to still have him around healthy. Perhaps you can visit but still need to wear a mask? Maybe your father lives far away so visiting him is off the table completely. The Local Artisan Guide is here to suggest gift ideas that are affordable, help local businesses that have been struggling due to Covid-19 and charitable for today’s relevant issues. We have a selection of gift ideas for all price points that can be ordered online to make it easy for dad to receive.

Kempton and Co. Wooden Slingshot

Kempton & Co. Wooden Slingshot, $38

Kempton & Co. is a Brooklyn handbag and accessories brand founded by English designer Fiona Kempton who draws inspiration from her equestrian background, design and culture. Her website features a Wooden Slingshot that is guaranteed to get dad off the couch and into nature to sharpen his mischievous slingshot skills. The Hella Slingshot is the real deal. It’s just like the wood weapons you used to make as a kid, but with an added touch of grown up craftsmanship. Each one-of-a-kind slingshot is handmade in San Francisco from forked tree branches, carefully airbrushed with acrylic paint, and outfitted with a leather projectile pouch using natural latex tubing and imitation sinew. Guaranteed to help dad’s fading hand-eye coordination!

Hudson Single Malt Whiskey from the Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery

Hudson Single Malt Whiskey from the Tuthilltown Sprits Farm Distillery in New York, available at Caskers.com, $55.99

In these troubling times we can all use a drink. So may we recommend Hudson Single Malt Whiskey? Hudson Single Malt Whiskey is a product from the Tuthilltown Spirits Farm Distillery which is New York’s first whiskey distillery since prohibition, distilling some of America’s most prized spirits here in the Hudson Valley. The distillery uses local ingredients from a span of ten miles and has produced award winning whiskey, gin and vodka on their premises. The Hudson Single Malt Whiskey is made in the classic fashion with whole ground malted barley and nothing else. Aged in their small American Oak casks, this whiskey is a departure from popular single malt Scotches. Rich in color and full flavored, their single malt is an American reinterpretation of traditional Scottish and Irish whiskies. Here’s to you Dad!

Thursday Boot Co.

Thursday Boot Co., Captain boot in terra-cotta, $199.

Thursday Boots are a footwear brand that creates high quality boots at affordable prices (Vogue says they are the best boots under $200). Thursday Boots partner with world-renowned suppliers and highly skilled artisans to carefully handcraft their footwear. Only the highest ethical and quality standards are accepted. Their goal is to make products that their can proudly stand by, and that you can confidently stand in for years to come. The Captain boot in the color terra-cotta is a guaranteed Dad pleaser that he will cherish for years to come and rest assured he will be the most fashionable dad at the pub, or wherever your dad likes to congregates.

DS & Durga, Bowmakers Perfume

DS & Durga, Bowmakers, 100ml, $260 (also comes in smaller quantities).

DS & Durga is a local perfume brand made in NY that seeks to replicate olfactory aromas from places, experiences and objects recalling memories from times past. DS & Durga formulate their fragrances using both traditional and eclectic ingredients. Their perfume Bowmakers recreates the transcendental woods of the 1800s, where craftsmen from the Massachusetts Bay Colony built violins and bows. Old growth mahogany, burled maple shavings, amber pine rosin, aged walnut and unique secret varnishes make this manly fragrance that is pure time travel. It’s a Father’s Dad gift that will please both Dad AND Mom if you know what I mean…

Charitable contribution in his name to the NAACP, ACLU, Black Lives Matter or a charity he is passionate about.

NAACP, ACLU, BLACK LIVES MATTER, or whatever floats his boat.

Let’s face it, the world is a mess. Even more than usual. The United States has been experiencing times of extreme hardship this year and a charitable donation to an organization that assists the pertinent issues of these troubled times is certainly called for. Whether your dad is woke and would appreciate a donation in his name or not that quite evolved, you can make lemonade out of all the lemons out there and donate to a charitable donation in his name.

So may we recommend the NAACP, the ACLU and Black Lives Matter. If you don’t want to make a political statement this Father’s Day you can always donate to his favorite charity, for example; Dad is an avid bird watcher and lives in Brooklyn so donate to the Brooklyn Bird Club. There are so many great charities that help the environment, refugees, children, animals, arts, etc. You can be sure to find a charitable organization that your dad is proud to have a donation sent in his name to. Win/Win!

We hope you have a safe and healthy Father’s Day with your father or father figure. Good men, good fathers need to be celebrated in a scary world where all you want is to feel safe and loved.

Happy Father’s Day!

By Natalie Rivera

Mother's Day in the Time of Covid-19, Last Minute Thoughtful Gifts for Mother's Day

With Mother’s Day around the corner and most of the world on lockdown, this is proving to be one extraordinary Mother’s Day for all.

Covid-19 has possibility led you to forget that this coming Sunday, May 10th is Mother’s Day and since you should be social distancing from your mother if you are not in quarantine with her, here are some suggestions from The Local Artisan Guide on thoughtful last minute Mother’s Day gifts.

Good Old Fashion Flowers from Your Local Florist

Many florists have managed to stay open during the shutdown by just fulfilling orders at their store via phone or website. If you have a local florist who is especially fond of working with local flowers this is the perfect gift for your mother. She will love a beautiful bouquet that shows her how much you miss and love her. Some florists like Soho’s Elan Flowers were closed at first but now are open and providing limited services with safe, no contact deliveries.

Elan Flowers in Soho, NYC offers flower with safe, no contact deliveries. Bouquets start at $60.

Rothy’s and Kempton & Co.

Rothy’s the footwear company that has taken the world by storm by introducing footwear that has been made by recycled plastic has introduced handbags to their brand. One of their most popular silhouettes is The Essential Tote. Tote all your essentials with ease in this spacious bag. Crafted with ocean-bound marine plastic, this versatile tote keeps you equipped from dawn to dusk. Its a win/win, your mother gets a tote that will help her carry all her essentials whilst remaining stylish and you know you are helping the environment by providing her a gift that is eco-friendly. An added bonus is all that Rothy’s is helping with masks for Covid-19 relief. Click here to learn more.

Rothy’s The Essential Tote in Desert Sand for $275 Photo Courtesy of Rothy’s

Any small local business, local artisan or small independent brand that has an online presence are desperate for your orders to help keep them afloat. Whether its fashion, accessories, jewelry, shoes, gifts, chocolates, etc., just ask your mom what she wants for Mother’s Day and see if a small local business can fulfill her Mother’s Day wishes. A tote from Kempton & Co. is the perfect gift from a small local business. Proceeds from the profits made from their NY TOUGH totes will be going to In God's Love we Deliver  an organization that helps fight hunger in their local communities.

Kempton & Co. NY Distressed Canvas Tough Tote, $395.

Inphorm NYC Facial Masks

Inphorm NYC, the eco-friendly luxury athleisure wear brand has added an eco-friendly mask that is tested and adjudged to be significantly effective protection to the wearer against molecules and liquid absorbency. The outer layer is made from water repellent cotton that meets the international water-repellency test of up to 20 washes.  The inner layer, which has a soft feel to the face, is made from eco-forward sustainable bamboo fabric with an antibacterial finish. The face masks, when used with proper preventive measures, can limit the spread of contaminants. The mask comes in two sizes, petite (great for women) and regular size (perfect for men). Best of all is that the mask is very affordable at $9.

Inphorm Protective Mask, $9.

A Mother’s Day Feast From a Local Restaurant

With so many restaurants closed there are a few great restaurants that have managed to stay open with local deliveries. Why not make sure your mother is not going to be doing any cooking that day and provide your mom her favorite meal for her and those she is social distancing with (it’s only fair). So whether its brunch or a glorious dinner have your mom enjoying her favorite cuisine and as an extra bonus to your mom share the meal over Zoom. If a restaurant doesn’t come to your mind you can research on Grubhub, Seemless Web or Uber Eats and easily have a meal for mom delivered to her.

Grubhub, Seemless Web and Uber Eats can help you choose great meals to have delivered to your mother.

A Donation to Her Favorite Cause in Her Honor

Right now more than ever our world needs help in every area whether its humanitarian, environmental, animals, etc. Donating to your mother’s favorite cause is a gift that reverberates throughout our communities. In a time when so many of us feel hopeless as we can’t go out and help unless we are an essential worker the best gift is the gift of giving. One standout organization is the International Rescue Committee which beside having their usual donations for refugees has a special Mother’s Day offer called a Mother’s Day match. For $90, IRC offers four emergency hygiene kits to mothers in vulnerable countries like Yemen, Syria and Venezuela. Donate now for Mother’s Day and help moms in vulnerable areas to keep their families safe.

IRC Mother’s Day Match, $90.

If you can’t afford a gift for your mother this Mother’s Day because your circumstances have made it financially difficult there are many options. Send a greeting card, organize a Zoom video, FaceTime call or even a simple phone call. It lets your mother know she is much loved and you want her to stay home, stay safe and stay healthy.

A card, Zoom, FaceTime or just a simple phone call will make mom happy.

By Natalie Rivera

The Local Artisans of Tobermory

Recently whilst on holiday in the Scottish Isles, besides admiring the spectacular beauty of Scotland and the Inner Hebrides, The Local Artisan Guide was lucky enough to stumble (okay we took a ferry to the Island of Mull) upon the town of Tobermory. 

The picturesque town of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, Scotland.

Tobermory is a picturesque town on the Island of Mull (part of the Inner Hebrides) with colorful houses, restaurants and shops lined up on a marina with rolling green hills and trees all apart of an incredible vista. Tobermory Bay was originally a fishing port that has since become home to small businesses, restaurants, small hotels and artisanal shops that offer a range in products including; jewelry, chocolates, soap, pottery, cheese, leather goods, a distiller, art, local fashion, stationary, baked goods and more. 

As you get off the ferry you follow the crescent shape road known as Main Street around the marina with multicolor buildings dotting the landscape. While walking down the street and entering the various shops one observes that many of the shops not only carry local products but many of the products are produced in the shop itself. There are also many products made from local artisans near by on the island.

After exploring Main Street here are some of the highlights in Tobermory:

AN CAMUS

An Camus

Slightly off Main Street as soon as you depart the ferry you will come upon the studio and shop of An Camus where Stuart and Helen Orr can be seen working on their glass products, knick-knacks and stationary.

The workshop of An Camus is located in the shop itself where you see many items in the process of being made.

An Camus offers many representations of the sea and wildlife.

Its typical to see Stuart and Helen hard at work creating their wares.

A small example of An Camus’s beautiful glassware.

ISLE OF MULL SOAP CO.

Isle of Mull Soap Co.

Isle of Mull Soap Co. is a quaint soap shop founded by husband and wife team Stu and Sophie who create soap inspired by the culture of Scotland and all the many natural and native ingredients you can only find in the Scottish Isles. Soaps, soap bombs, candles, bath and body, gifts and accessories can be found in this shop along with beautiful packaging and always a friendly welcome.

Isle of Mull Soap Co. has a large selection of soap and bath products.

With such scents as Hot Toddy, Cinnamon & Citrus and Rose & Patchouli, shopping here makes for great souvenirs.

Isle of Mull Soap Co. also offers bath bombs, bath and body and great gifts to remind you of your stay in Tobermory.

TOBERMORY DISTILLERY

The visitor center for Tobermory Distillery.

Tobermory Distillery, where the magic happens.

Established in 1798, Tobermory Distillery is the only distillery on the Island of Mull and one of the oldest commercial distilleries in Scotland. The distillery is unique not only because of its picturesque location but because they offer not one but two distinctive single malts.

The shop in the visitor center of the distillery offers their entire selection of scotch and whiskey.

There is even a formal tasting room that you can make an appointment to experience.

Tobermory Distillery offers more than just whiskey at the visitor center. Here you can purchase, hats, t-shirts and even soap made with whiskey!

Is there such a thing as a “wee dram”? We think not, especially after you taste their whiskeys.

THE LAUNDRY

Is it a Laundry or a store? It’s both and both are well done.

The Laundry is a laundry service with a twist. The twist being that The Laundry is also a boutique that offers products made from local artisans from the Isle of Mull which include fashion, handbags, gifts, candles, bedding and more.

The Laundry offers a selection of fashion, accessories and gifts made on the Isle of Mull. Oh and exceptional laundry services too.

The Laundry offers bedding, which comes in handy for all the Airbnb’s on the island.

Handbags made from local leathers are one of the key products you will find in The Laundry.

ISLE OF MULL SILVER & GOLDSMITHS

You can’t miss Isle of Mull Silver & Goldsmith’s cobalt blue storefront on Main Street.

Founded in 1975 by Phil Campbell, Isle of Mull Silver & Goldsmiths provides jewelry made by local designers and features Scottish jewelry which includes quaichs, kilt pins, cufflinks, silver spoons and more traditional and contemporary designs.

Jewelry to wear for your kilts to represent your clans is a feature at the Isle of Mull Silversmith & Goldsmiths.

The shop also offers a wide selection of traditional silver spoons.

There is also a wide selection of traditional and contemporary jewelry designs made from local artisans.

ISLAND BLUE TOBERMORY

Island Blue Tobermory is great place to shop for children’s gifts and art from local residents.

Photographer Martin Guppy founded Island Blue which includes art from local artists, toys, skincare, candles, scarves, mugs and more.

Colorful mugs and coasters have imagery of the local sea and wildlife.

Many scents made from local ingredients are displayed in the store.

Island Blue Tobermory offers a fun, eclectic array of souvenirs from Tobermory.

Wood carvings of bird life and mugs of local cattle are a favorite at the store.

MULL POTTERY

The welcoming storefront of Mull Pottery.

Mull Pottery was established over 25 years ago using their own recipe for clay ceramics. The shop also offers pottery made by skilled craftspeople including the popular and stunningly beautiful Iona Range. All pieces are handmade, making each piece unique.

The selection of mugs with abstract vistas is a popular sell at Mull Pottery.

Sea and wildlife imagery is a great choice for souvenir gift giving.

The incredibly beautiful (and affordable) Iona Range ceramics make Mull Pottery an amazing stop on your trip to Tobermory.

ISLAND CRAFTS

The sea-green shop of Island Crafts.

Island Crafts Tobermory offers a wide selection of work predominately from artists living and working or with connections with the Isle of Mull.  They sell walking sticks, books, jewelry, stationary, antlers, gifts and more.

Island Crafts offer a unique selection of walking sticks made locally for that favorite of all activities in the Hebrides, walking the hills.

Beautiful home decor objects made from shells and pairing knives made with natural materials are show stoppers at Island Craft.

Island Craft also offers accessories, throws and caps made from wool from local sheep that help keep crafts alive and well in Tobermory.

TOBERMORY HANDMADE CHOCOLATE

Just look for the chocolate colored building for Tobermory Handmade Chocolate.

Founded in 1991 by husband and wife team Keith and Rhoda, Tobermory Handmade Chocolate offers artisan handmade chocolate with a variety of flavors native to Scotland and the Scottish Isles along with more traditional chocolates. There is also a cozy cafe and well stocked gift shop that offers more than local chocolates to take home.

The shop at Tobermory Handmade Chocolate offers an array of gift giving besides chocolate.

Lots of home decor items available at the shop.

Besides being able to buy their chocolates, there is a cozy cafe to settle in and taste and drink all Tobermory Handmade Chocolate has to offer.

Walking down Main Street in Tobermory will have you experiencing more than artisanal shops. There is a multitude of restaurants, bars, churches and more to explore. Then when you are done exploring Tobermory, feel free to travel throughout the Isle of Mull and find even more local artisans honing crafts passed down to them from generations of living in the Scottish Isles.

Can’t miss The Tobermory Hotel in all its pink glory!

Arnos Hall is community owned facility that hosts events and markets all year round.

This former Gothic church is now home to a gallery for local souvenirs and a popular cafe for both locals and visitors alike.

It is easy to understand how these vistas inspired so many beautiful depictions in the souvenir shops in Tobermory.

By Natalie Rivera

Distinctive Father's Day Gifts

Finding a gift for dear old dad on Father’s Day can either be spectacularly easy when you have a father that doesn’t have discriminating taste (a run of the mill tie, some Old Karate, a knitted vest). Or maybe you have an extraordinary father who appreciates the finer things in life, or you want to introduce your father to some of your marvelous finds. If its the latter then this blog is for you.

The Local Artisan Guide recommends the following for distinctive Father’s Day gifts that he will appreciate you went to all the effort for.

D.S. & Durga, Burning Barbershop, $260

D.S. & Durga is a fragrance brand that specializes in scents that recreate experiences. Many of the scents are unisex in nature, however for Father’s Day, “Burning Barbershop” is the perfect scent for dad. The description of Burning Barbershop is as follows: A fire broke out in the Curling Bros. barbershop in Westlake, N.Y. in 1891. All the shaving tonics with their spearmint, lime, vanilla and lavender burned. A charred bottle was found half-full. It smelled like this.

Huckberry, Deus Ex Machina, American Twin Trucker Hat, $36

Australian motorcycle brand, Deus Ex Machina, created this trucker hat designed specifically for the dads that want the most out of the warm weather ahead—a cushioned crown, meshed back, and quick-drying design keeps blocks out the sun, keeps ya cool, and looks great in the process.

C’H’C’M’, Yogi, “Elijah Negative Heel Boot'“ (Oatmeal Suede), $210

How stylish and comfortable will your dad be when he slips into his C’H’C’M’ Yogi Elijah Negative Heel Boot. This very affordable suede boot is made in Portugal using the finest suede leathers in Europe.

St. Frank, Coffee Classic Classic Kuba Cloth, iPhone 7/8 Case, $38

St. Frank is a home decor brand that features home accessories made from artisans around the world. This St. Frank iPhone case depicts a vintage Kuba cloth from the Republic of Congo, a unique textile featuring complex designs that are created when various geometric raffia pieces are stitched to a plain raffia background. The resulting rough surface is punctuated by repeated geometric patterns with unexpected interruptions in design. Men cultivate the raffia palm and weave the raffia cloth; women then create the patterned textiles. Traditionally, Kuba cloth was used as a wrapped skirt worn during burials. Later, it was incorporated in ceremonial dress for ritual dances and other celebrations.

Rowing Blazers, Rolex Day-Date 1803, Wind Vintage, $9,900

Rowing Blazers, the brand that focuses on rediscovering and reinventing preppie also offers collections of vintage watches. Here is the Rolex Day-Date reference 1803 dates to circa 1967 and includes its chronometer certificate (a.k.a. "COSC papers") and an extremely rare "The Day-Date" promotional booklet. The dial is beautifully preserved and the case is crisp and full. Wind Vintage purchased this watch from Heritage Auctions in April for $8,437.50, just so there is full transparency on its origin and what was paid. It is understood that the consignor to the auction was the original owner. This watch is currently on view at the Rowing Blazers Clubhouse at 161 Grand Street in New York City. Curated by Wind Vintage.

Nomad Tribe, Mutuba Organic PlayNomad Shirt, $60

Nomad Tribe, the sustainable clothing brand has the perfect Father’s Day gifts for the “Woke” dad, here is the Mutuba Organic PlayNomad Shirt, their softest polo yet. Did you notice the musical prints and the 2-tone buttons? (Have another look. Perfect for on the run or the golf course, easily paired with khaki pants, shorts or jeans.

Our picks range from high luxury to extremely affordable and should make dads of all ages pleased you put so much time and attention show them how much you appreciated them being your dad.

Click onto the captions for more product information.

Happy Father’s Day!

By Natalie Rivera

Hudson Yards

Recently Hudson Yards, a complex that includes residences, offices, shops, restaurants and cultural institutions all encased among innovative architecture (innovative for NYC) has opened up to the general public.

The Local Artisan Guide feels its important for you to have information at your hand for shopping destinations whether its on a charming small dead end street or a multilevel complex. Hudson Yards is certainly the latter.

Located at West 34th Street and 11th Ave. (you can take the #7 train to Hudson Yards directly or a crosstown bus), Hudson Yards is where the MTA has housed subway cars for decades (still does). After exiting the highly stylized new subway station, you encounter a complex of new, cutting edge buildings that include residences, the Equinox Hotel, and a very upscale mall for New York City.

Hudson Yards include a complex of residences, office buildings, shops and The Equinox Hotel.

There is a structure outside the shops that looks like the skeletal system of a bug or artichoke called “The Vessel”. It is a piece that you can enter and explore from the inside (much like the Statue of Liberty). To enter you need to go onto Hudson Yards’s website www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com and reserve a time and day to enter the sculpture (its free). 

In the center of Hudson Yards you will encounter The Vessel, a sculpture you are allowed to enter and explore (tickets available for free online).

After exploring The Vessel you can head straight to the shops across the way. The main store here is department store Neiman Marcus. Neiman Marcus has never been situated in NYC (except for Neiman Marcus Last Call in Brooklyn) so in a city that has been losing iconic department stores for the last few years (Lord & Taylor, Henri Bendel’s etc.) it is nice to have one that has a long reputable establish itself here. Neiman Marcus presents itself in a minimal way, there is no or little clutter. They offer a strongly curated assortment of established and emerging designers in its store. 

Neiman Marcus is the dominant department store at Hudson Yards, located on the third floor.

A view of The Vessel and the trains lined up in at Hudson Yards from the interior.

What is interesting in the consortium of stores in the Hudson Yards is its range. Here you can find high end brands such as Christian Dior and Cartier’s, to mid range brands like Kate Spade and Tori Burch all the way to H&M and Zara. All presented much like the high end malls you see in Hong Kong, Singapore and Dubai. Downtown in the financial district you have a similar collection of stores in Battery Park City with high end brands, grand architecture, restaurants, hotels and residences all flowing into each other, yet at Hudson Yards there is a difference as the selection of stores at Hudson Yards has a curated feel to it. Besides the brands mentioned there are also more independent brands that you would find by strolling down the streets of Soho but you wouldn’t find their presence in American malls. These brands include Scanlan Theodore, M.Gemi and Hatch to name a few. 

Fendi is one the high end stores you will find at Hudson Yards amongst others.

Zara and H&M are some of the affordable stores you will find at Hudson Yards.

Scanlan Theodore is one of the many independent brands that have opened in Hudson Yards.

Also unlike the malls in Asia or in Battery Park City, Hudson Yards strives to have something for everybody as shopping and eating there runs the gamut of all price ranges. You can find both high end restaurants and more affordable eating, like Shake Shack at Hudson Yards. 

Hudson Yards offers besides shops, multiple places of all price points to dine. Shake Shack is amongst food choices at Hudson Yards.

Many of the shops have still yet to open at the Hudson yards. The experience of shopping at Hudson Yards is similar to the World Trade Center instead there the art structure is part of the interior shopping experience and in Hudson Yards its on the exterior of the building.  Hudson Yards incorporates art installations throughout the interior and exterior of the complex making for a cultural experience too.

Hudson Yards included art throughout the entire complex.

Hudson Yards is bound to be a popular place to visit in the future, especially if you live there or are staying in Midtown when visiting NYC. It is definitely worth a visit.

By Natalie Rivera

Bleek Street No More

In the summer of 2017 The Local Artisan Guide wrote a blog on the sad state of Bleecker Street. With its high rate of empty store fronts, Bleecker Street was starting to look more and more like a street in the mid-west rust belt. Retailers both local and national were abandoning their shops due to astronomical rent increases while landlords were fine with waiting out for tenants that could afford high rents. A few national beauty brands were moving in such as Aesop and The Organic Pharmacy, but in general walking down Bleecker Street seemed quite bleak. 

Fast forward to early 2019 where walking down Bleecker Street is now a more positive experience. Rents have started to come down however there are still multiple shops that are empty. Unfortunately stores are still closing (Sunni Spencer just shut down) but a few new brands are opening up under the revitalization project “Love, Bleecker.”

Still many empty storefronts dot Bleecker Street.

“Love, Bleecker” is a collaboration between Skylight and Brookfield Properties, created to breathe back some life into Bleecker Street. “Love, Bleecker” has acquired four storefronts to introduce four online brands who never had a brick and mortar presence. The four brands are couture retailers Prabal Gurung, men’s leather good brand Slightly Alabama, cashmere brand Lingua Franca and plant based bodega with floral collab Bonberi & Fleurotica. 

Along with the storefronts “Love, Bleecker” will also introduce art installations, music and more interactive community events in collaboration with the shops. 

#lovebleecker

“Love, Bleecker” paired each shop with an artist to have fashion and art play off each other. For Slightly Alabama they paired artist Chelsea Hryrick Browne, who created an installation of intricately hand-cut paper designs that will be displayed in the shop’s windows for 6 months. Her designs, which are layers of hand-cut paper create the illusion of an abstract painting.

Slightly Alabama and artist Chelsea Hrynick Browne collaboration.

Prabal Gurung was paired with Edward Ross who crafted a glass sculptural lighting installation which will live in the space for the year.

Prabal Gurung and Edward Ross collaboration.

Lingua Franca was partnered with artist Ashley Longshore who made a very colorful and glittery painting of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

Lingua Franca and Ashley Longshore collaboration.

Bonberi & Fleurotica have been paired with Signe Pierce who created floral and neon illuminated sculptures. 

Bonberi & Fleurotica collaboration with Signe Pierce.

Besides “Love, Bleecker” there have been multiple store openings of brands that have not had brick and mortar stores including; TDE (The Daily Edit), Kilona, St.Frank, Naadam, Margaux, Hill House Home and gold no.8 to name a few. Some pop up shops have opened up indefinitely such as Netluxe, The Citizenry Bunkhouse, Buckberry, Quaker Marine Supply and Greyers. Other more established brands have opened up new locations on Bleecker Street, which include Faherty, Buck Mason, Jay Kos and Marine Layer making Bleecker Street an up and coming men’s fashion destination.

Welcome to Bleecker Street! New brands are popping up along the way.

So in the end, just walk down Bleecker Street, enjoy the new brands, art and events and remember at the end of the road there is thankfully Magnolia Bakery.

By Natalie Rivera

Unique and Romantic Valentines Day Gift Ideas

When you walk around cities and towns constantly on the lookout for artisans and small independent brands you eventually start to acquire a rolodex of gift ideas in your head for all occasions. Valentines Day is no different so we here at The Local Artisan Guide are quite happy to recommend some of the gems we have discovered over the years for special, unique and romantic gift giving for Valentines Day.

Why be like everyone else and settle for red roses, mass produced chocolate and run of the mill gifts with no time or thought given to them. Here are some suggestions in all price ranges for all genders and relationships that can be bought in New York City or online.

VITAE ASCENDERE MELTING HEART CHARM NECKLACE, $580 at Atelier d’Emotion

Atelier d’Emotion calls itself a “jewel box” of a boutique and they are right. It’s the perfect place to shop for a Valentine’s Day gift. It’s a small, intimate, beautifully decorated romantic boutique that is highly curated with jewelry, home decor, candles and even artisanal chocolate. You can’t loose if you pick any item from the shop as a Valentines Day gift, however may we recommend the Vitae Ascendere Melting Heart Charm Necklace in 18k Yellow Gold with 17 inches Yellow Gold Chain with Karabiner Clasp. 3D printed, designed and manufactured in NYC.

MARIEBELLE VALENTINES’S CHOCOLATE GANACHE 36 PIECE BOX $97

Artisanal chocolatier MarieBelle is one of the first chocolatiers to add modern eclectic graphic designs to her chocolates along with unusual and delicious flavors. You can buy online but please visit her shops if you can as they transform you to a cafe in a romantic European town. The chocolates are sold in various sizes with her signature MarieBelle New York ganaches in special romantic designs. Each ganache combines the finest single-origin chocolate with eclectic ingredients and artisanal techniques. Offered in a signature red box and wrapped in grosgrain ribbon for an extra special gift.

EMILY THOMPSON FLOWERS CUSTOM ARRANGEMENTS, PRICE UPON REQUEST.

When you care enough to send the very best in New York City you go to Emily Thompson Flowers. Each arrangement is unique and designer's choice. All arrangements are designed with the finest seasonal materials with a preference for local and specialty flowers and foliage. Emily Thompson welcomes design requests, but *cannot guarantee specific materials*. Design notes and gift messages can be entered at checkout. For guaranteed delivery for Valentines please order by Tuesday February 12th. In honor of love for all, 10% of all proceeds will be donated to Planned Parenthood.

OLFACTORY NYC CUSTOMIZED FRAGRANCES, $75

Olfactory NYC is a perfume boutique that lets you customized your very own fragrance for yourself or for that special someone. Create your fragrance by choosing one of their recommended specific accords that emphasize certain emotions inherent to each scent to create a final design that is all your own. Choose a bottle, color and name your fragrance. All for an affordable $75 (they also offer a travel size for $25).

ANSON CALDER PASSPORT WALLET, $160.

Escaping to a romantic destination is a great way to celebrate Valentines Day. If you are really going for it, grab your passport and escape to a destination across the borders and while you are at it dress his passport in an Anson Calder small leather good. The Passport Wallet conveniently stores all your necessary travel cards and documents in one place. The minimalist construction fits all passport sizes and offers space for boarding passes, customs forms, visas, or any other travel documents. The minimalist design and patent-pending push slots reduce bulk by removing the need for multiple pockets. These cutouts make it easier than ever to access various cards on the fly. By fanning the cards out, you can identify and remove the one you need while leaving the others in place. For an additional $15 you can have it monogrammed too.

ABC CARPET & HOME, JAN BURTZ PORCELAIN HEART DISHES, $40 - $48

Hearts are everywhere and a special gift to give to anyone in your life that you care about are Jan Burtz Porcelain Heart Dishes. Exclusively at ABC, these heart dishes are made by hand from creamy porcelain and a homemade glaze. Their irregular, organic forms bring us back to the basics, accentuating the fluidity and grace of hand-formed wares. Made in Jan Burtz's Connecticut studio, no two pieces are alike, though all are food, dishwasher, and microwave safe. Available in Gold, White and Blush.

THE 4OCEAN BRACELET, $20

Want to give the gift that keeps on giving and giving? The gift that shows your love of the earth and its environment? Why not gift a 4ocean bracelet? By purchasing this bracelet, you will remove one pound of trash from the ocean and coastlines.  Its unisex design is adjustable from 2-5” in diameter, its made with 90% recyclable content post consumer and hand assembled on the island of Bali.

LE MAISON CLOSE, LE PLUMEAU CARESSE NOIR, $35

Here is another version of the French tickler. Let’s not forget the romantic, sexy part of Valentines Day with some love paraphernalia. French lingerie brand Maison Close offer besides sexy, beautiful lingerie, an array of tasteful love accessories to make your night of love an unforgettable, sensuous experience.

GREENWICH LETTERPRESS, “BETTER HALF”, $5

When giving that romantic gift, don’t forget the romantic greeting card. You can forgo the Hallmark card and go artisanal with Greenwich Letterpress’s selection of Valentines Day cards. They are unique, artistic, romantic, flat printed in the USA using 100% recycled paper, paired with a matching envelop and blank inside so your lover hears your words not some cheesy quote. Even better is that they are quite affordable at $5.

So hopefully you are inspired by our selection of Valentines Day gifts. Just click on the captions for product info.

If you are an original and your loved one appreciates that you think they are unique and deserve the beauty of artisanal craft and design, then these are gifts they are bound to love and cherish.

Happy Valentines Day!

By

Natalie Rivera

Notable Gift Shops in NYC

Where best to find holiday gifts, especially last minute gifts? A store dedicated to the art of gift giving! Not a brand with a gift section, not a department store with a gift table, we are talking stores that search the world over for gifts or create gifts locally. Here The Local Artisan Guide list ten notable gift shops in New York City that we have come upon while we scour the city for local, independent businesses. The gift shops listed below will guarantee unique, thoughtful, local, artisanal gifts. Best is that every shop mentioned has very affordable items for everyone on your holiday list.

TOP HAT GIFT SHOP - 245 Broome St., Lower East Side, NYC

Top Hat Gift Shop is the brainchild of Nina Allen which reflects her world travels and her love of modernist, eclectic gifts. You never really know what to expect here at Top Hat which features home goods, stationary, crafts and well…anything that strikes her fancy yet fits into the modern aesthetic of her shop.

CW PENCIL ENTERPRISE - 15 Orchard St., Lower East Side, NYC

Pencils for a gift! Definitely if they come from CW Pencil Enterprise. CW offers the Cadillac of pencils in every color and grade. Plus in this charming shop you will find pencil accessories, stationary and items you never knew existed but you must have and gift to your loved ones once seen.

YUNHONG CHOPSTICKS - 50 Mott Street, Chinatown, NYC

Yunhong Chopsticks offers just one thing in their shop, chopsticks. However they offer every variation and price point for their chopsticks. The chopsticks come in different materials, colors and set numbers. All beautifully packaged making for easy, unique gift giving.

JOHN DERIAN COMPANY, INC. - 6 East 2nd St., East Village, NYC

John Derian has been a destination for the art of decoupage since 1989. You can easily lose a whole afternoon in Derian’s shop browsing through his many designs (which are all done locally a few blocks away in his studio). Derian has added some additional categories through the years including tabletop, small goods, candles, textiles, stationary and more.

CHESS FORUM - 219 Thompson St., Greenwich Village, NYC

Looking for classic games like chess, backgammon, checkers, dominoes, Chinese chess and much more? Well at Chess Forum you find these items in all variations from casual gaming to over the top, high end sets. Charming part of Chess Forum is that they also have a chess parlor where you can come and for $5 play a game and increase your chess skills ($1 for seniors and kids play for free).

CONSIDEROSITY - 131 West 4th St., Greenwich Village, NYC

Considerosity is the perfect gift shop for one stop shopping as you can most likely find something for everyone on your holiday list. Considerosity carries a selection of candles, soaps, jewelry, bags, accessories and more. The collection is comprised of a number of artisanal designers primarily from the New York area and around the country.

THE MEADOW - 523 Hudson St., West Village, NYC

The Meadow was founded by Mark Bitterman in 2006 out of his love of travel, food and culture. He decided to open a shop to share his discoveries of craft made salts, gourmet chocolates, handmade cocktail bitters, accessories and gifts that every gourmand would love and treasure.

EARTH SPEAKS - 139 Atlantic Ave., Boerum Hill, Brooklyn, NYC

Earth Speaks is a boutique that offers an array of gifts such as terrariums and air plants, organic skin care products, terrarium jewelry, soap and candles-- all of which are made in-house at their shop in Brooklyn. Earth Speaks also offers locally made artisanal products such as paintings, pottery and jewelry.

SWALLOW - 361 Smith St., Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, NYC.

Having a hard time finding the perfect gift for that person in your life who has immaculate taste, style and aesthetics? Well Swallow may be the shop for you to find a highly curated gift they are sure to love and not try to return or regift. This petite boutique is full of vases, ceramics, bowls, wall hangings, decorative objects, crystals, sea glass, organic home decor and more. The gifts are so beautiful you will most likely want to keep them for yourself.

UNION SQUARE HOLIDAY MARKET - Union Square, Chelsea, NYC

Up until December 24th, Union Square Holiday Market is a a must-visit destination for unique gifts created by local craftsmen and artists. With dozens upon dozens of stands. Union Square Market offers up every possible category of gifts from jewelry, to leather goods, stationary, crafts, accessories, home decor, artisanal foods, toys, holiday decor, drinks, snacks and more.

This is New York City so this list is just the tip of the iceberg for unique gift giving but its the local artisanal tip recommended by The Local Artisan Guide so you know its well worth the advice and will also benefit the small, local businesses.

Happy Gift Giving!

By Natalie Rivera