Transformation Tuesday

Anyone who knows me, knows I love a good deal and a good DIY. A few years back I found this tea cart at an estate sale in Norfolk. I gave it a clean coat of white paint and used it for parties in our backyard and planting and displaying (real) flowers. Last week, I decided it was in need of another makeover for my Pop Up Flower Shop at Kitsch. As luck would have it, I had a can of gold spray paint under the sink (intended for some plastic animals...let's just call that project a #pinterestfail) so the tea cart transformed into the Flower Cart.

The cart (along with a few wooden crates) was the perfect display for Saturday. Simple and cute. It didn't allow for a lot of product, which I'm always guilty of bringing. I was able to incorporate a gold, metal record album holder (holding the brooches) that I had been hoarding in the basement, along with the cutest miniature Ball jars we got as a wedding present (holding the mini flowers on the bottom shelf).

The Pop Up Shop went really well! Lots of people came out and built bouquets, which was very exciting. And I got to meet some Fairview Place Fans, which is always inspiring! Plus, I was able to talk to the shop owner for a while and got several new leads on shops, blogs and podcasts to follow. I've decided to apply for the Crafted Indie Art and Craft Market, which is debuting a new Spring show in April. Wish me luck!

Mark Your Calendars!

We'll be having our first Pop Up Shop in more than a year on February 13, 2016.

Just in time for Valentine's Day, visit Kitsch where you can build your own bouquet for your Sweetie. We'll also have accessories, succulents and our newly painted flower cart. 

Noon to 3 p.m.

807 Shirley Ave., Norfolk, Virginia

Join the Facebook event and share it with your friends!

Potted: A Plant Pop Up Shop

 

I think I can say our Summer pop up shop was a complete success. John was awarded the 2,500 square foot space, along with local fashion designer, Melissa Gumley of ADHD Driven, for five days. Did I mention it was free? Yep!

We took two nights to set up our retail shop and opened Friday morning at 10am. Succulents, cactus and airplants. Sewing classes. Accessories. Artwork. Dresses, shirts and tanks. The most popular feature? Terrarium Classes. John probably taught more than 50 people throughout the weekend how to build a little (or sometimes big) plant home.

We also debuted the Glass Gardens Terrarium Kits and buttons! 

#6: Pop up shop  //  #33: Help a Friend  //  #83: Glass Gardens Buttons

I'm participating in the 92 Days of Summer challenge. Click here to see my 92 To-Do's for this Summer - and to see the brave souls tackling their own lists!

Self Portrait: April

As I've been diving more and more in the land of felt flowers, I've realized I might have found my calling. Now, let's be honest. The world is not in demand of a felt florist. By any means. And really, my calling is graphic design because I'm pretty good at it, and can actually make a living from it. But recently, I feel immense peace when I'm creating these little babies. Twice in the past week I've had conversations with people about how I should start meditating for various reasons (which I've tried, but honestly...me sitting still and being quiet?). But after another evening crafting away at these flowers, I think this may be the best form of reflection and relaxation for me. Or perhaps I just really enjoy playing with my growing collection of beautiful wool felt? Regardless of the reason, I'm pretty excited for my new-found hobby and hope it brings just as much joy to those receiving them as it does for me making them!

Thanks to Kristen at Kitsch for the pretty photo! It was taken during our Mother's Day Pop Up Shop in their Craft Studio.

Forever Bouquets for Mother's Day

Just in time for Mother's Day, some new size and style Forever Bouquets! I purchased a case of these glass soda bottles from Glass Gardens (who scored them at the monthly Olde Towne Portsmouth Flea Market last year) and I've them all to good use. These new bouquets feature three to five flowers, one large and the rest small, accent flowers or sprigs.

I've been playing with all my new wool felt (in 120 colors) and the bouquets are coming out so pretty! I'm loving mix and matching the random colors and have been incorporating leftover flowers from the Garden Show back in January. The dainty bouquets are $15, including the vase...pretty much an awesome deal for a present that lasts a lifetime (really working on selling these babies).

Could resist posting this mini bouquet in a glass syrup bottle! The whole arrangement measures 6 inches tall, but is gorgeous in the purple, red and magenta tones. If you're interested in purchasing any of these, send me a message, or check out our Mother's Day Pop Up next weekend at Kitsch.

Flora

While meandering around Asheville, we stumbled upon Flora. It reminds me a lot of Studio Posy, here in Norfolk, but a bit bigger. The Asheville shop is a full service florist that does weddings and everyday bouquets, but also offers gifts, such as jewelry, cards and decor.

The shop is just gorgeous! I love the clean and simple, yet rustic feel of the space. There is a lot of stuff to look at, but it doesn't feel cluttered at all. All the furniture seems antique or vintage, but since it has all be painted white and weathered it matches so well. Not to mention the great use of chalkboards (and painted drawers and doors to make chalkboards) within some of the display pieces.

I was immediately texting Glass Gardens with lots of ideas for new creations, including these cutie egg succulents. Haven't heard the verdict if it's worth all the trouble of carefully breaking eggs to create the "pot", or what you do with the leftover eggs...?

I love this idea of "Build A Bouquet"! I think it would be a fun addition to my felt flowers for a craft show, pop-up or even an idea for a class. I didn't find out if those prices are per stem...if so that's a pretty expensive bouquet - but great for sales :). If you're in the Asheville area, be sure to check out this gem. It's on your way to the Riverwalk Arts District, so you can't miss it!