Gift Guide: For the Kiddos

I have always loved kid stuff and as my time is nearing to becoming a mama (Eeek!), I spend a good portion of my time looking at adorable little things for kiddos.

1. Jeremy Owl: Hazel Village $45.00

2. Handmade Fish Soy Crayons: Earth Grown Crayons $10.00 

3. Fiona Walker Felt Elephant Head: Waiting on Martha $155.00

4. Classic Blocks with Bag: Uncle Goose $44.00

5. Kid Sketch Pad: Appointed $22.00

6. Pom Pom Storage Bin: Leif $26.00

7. Finger Puppets Circus: Peg and Pin $28.00

8. Kids' Max the Monster Lunchbox: J.Crew $39.50

9. Free As A Bird T-shirt: The Bee and The Fox $25.00

Gift Guide: For the Men

It can be so hard to figure out a good gift to give the men in your life. If you're like me, both your dad and husband always ask for the same thing - underwear. I find it terribly annoying. There is nothing less exciting to give someone than underwear as a gift. However, I finally found a company that makes cool underwear and a list of other unique gifts that any man would appreciate.

1. Cool Cotton Icon Stripe Trunk (Harvest Pumpkin Orange): Tommy John $29.00

2. Cooler by the Lake Mug (Cobalt): Shore Society $10.00

3. Original White Beard & Shave Soap: Hudson Made $22.00

4. Pendleton Log Carrier(Glacier Stripe): Pendelton Woolen Mills $129.00

5. Ascot Slippers (China Tea): Ugg $120.00

6. Cut Crystal Princeton Decanter Set: Things Remembered $125.00

7. The American Felling AX (Bobby McGee): Best Made Co. $300.00

8. My Town Map Coasters: National Geographic $49.00

9. Man Crate: Man Crates $39.00+

Gift Guide: For the Girls

Whether you're in need of some ideas of what to get your sister, friend, or maybe you need some help of what to put on your list to Santa - here are a few of my favorite things. 

1. Lango Messenger (Cement): Blair Ritchey $428.00

2. Havana Smoking Shoes: Artemis Design Co. $215.00

3.Surf Bracelets: On The Lookout Jewelry $38.00

4. Beverly Hills Collection boxed cards: Carde Blanche $22.00

5. Fiji Friendship Bracelet (Racing Green): Monica Vinader $185.00

6. Brass & Walnut Pour-Over Stand: Rodales $200.00

7. Vertical Stripe Monogrammed Notebook: MayDesigns $20.00

8. Ribbed Pom-Pom Beanie (Grey): J.crew $55.50

9. Decked Out Coasters: Havenly $39.00

10. Rind Concentrate Body Balm: Aesop $35.00

11. Organic Lemon Body Butter: SkinFood by Aubrey $20.00

Gift Guide: For the Pups

I love my pup, Monroe, and he loves receiving new toys and treats. He even does an adorable little dance around the new treat/toy if he is especially excited about it. Here is my roundup of things that I think any pup would love to find under the tree this year:)

1. Uncle Sam Rope Toy (Large): Harry Barker $16.00

2. Starbarks Dog Toy: Pampered Puppy $14.99

3. Rescue Dog Leash (Orange): Found My Animal $54.00

4. Be Brave Neckerchief: Camp Cloon $14.40

3. National Park Dog Coat (Glacier Park): Pendleton $59.00

4. Classic Stripe Rectangle Bed: Harry Barker $150.00 - $190.00

5. Poo York City Box: Bark Shop $35.00

6. Thirsty Puppy Beers Dog Treats: Brixtix Bakery for Dogs $18.00

Going to Market

When I was brainstorming and creating initial sketches of the Going to Market tote two years ago, much of my inspiration came from California’s plastic bag ban. I wanted to create a canvas bag that was simple, classic, and a great alternative to plastic bags. I think it is important to something for our planet whenever possible.  

To make this happen, the bag had to be strong enough to carry up to four bags of groceries. It also had to be on trend so people wanted to bring along to farmers markets-- another shopping experience I enjoy doing on summer days.  

A few weeks ago, I  took an early morning trip to an indoor market, Cleveland’s West Side Market, a prominent staple of Cleveland history that first opened its doors in 1912. It’s always packed to capacity with shoppers purchasing from its local vendors who sell fresh meats, produce and delicious baked goods. (The French macaroons from Cake Royale are my favorite!) 

My friend Cassie and I woke up early to get in a trip before starting our day. Because it was still quiet around 7:30am, a vendor noticed us and showed us the way to get the balcony that overlooks the entire market. And what a gorgeous sight! I couldn’t stop admiring its beautiful architecture on the ceiling, which lets in plenty of natural light. 

I also can’t stop admiring the many uses for the Market tote! From flowers to French baguettes to the delicious fresh produce that feeds you and your family, I’m so humbled to see your photos and thrilled to hear your positive feedback. 

Photo Credits: MrsLairdysPants | CamilaPavone | ATGreenwell | Carly | OneFineA | WillowCrowns

Feel free to continue sending your photos of the Going to Market tote, and all your uses for #BlairRitchey bags. I never tire of customer pictures! 

The Curtin Tote

I mean, honestly, on any given day I'm pretty much wearing the same exact thing. A pair of cropped pants, blouse, flats, and always the Curtin Tote with PAKs inside. I opt for a large thick scarf over a coat most of the time so I can shove it in my bag when I no longer need it. "Polishing" off my look with a pair of leather gloves and flats...most recently I've been sporting these flats from target.

For the past 2 years I have wanted nothing to do with pants that weren't at least an inch above my ankle. However until recently it has been tough to find great cropped pants, so I had to find a way to hem my pants without them looking hemmed. Here is a video that makes altering your pants at home with a sewing machine really easy.

The Curtin Tote is now available in Cognac and Cement!

REstyleSource

I had the pleasure of chatting with REstyleSource before they headed off to MARKET in Las Vegas this past week. I adore this company and the women behind it. If you aren't familiar with REstyleSource, they are a national guide to all things local. Their mission is to "reconnect shoppers with the real people and businesses that built America." Which is a total blessing to designers, like myself. The internet has been a double edge sword for small business owners, without it many of us would not have been able to even start our businesses. However, it also lowers the entry threshold leading to an over-saturated market and making it hard to stick out. That's where RestyleSource helps by giving their partners a stronger presence and connecting them with the right people. They are also an incredible source for inspiration for interior design, DIY, and discovering local businesses that you might be missing out on.

REstyleSource gifted their premier partners Going to Market totes at MARKET!!

Hop on over to REstyleSource and learn more about them and you can find out what inspires me and if I prefer coffee or tea by reading my interview :)

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

PAK'd to Go

Clarisonic: I wasn't sure at first if I loved using the Clarisonic, but now I can't live without it. My face  feels so clean after I use it and my skin is much brighter.

LUSH Ocean Salt Scrub: This scrub is great for my working girl hands - it takes them back to my pre-bag making days.

Lululemon Small Towel: I can't tell you how many towels I have ruined in my days from makeup. I keep one of these towels in my bathroom and one in my traveling PAK for when I'm away from home.

Kiehl's Midnight Recovery: This little magic in a bottle heals my face and dull complexion over night.

Kiehl's Rosa Arctica Eye: I have used countless eye creams and this one tightens, moisturizes, and lightens the relentless dark circles.

Dermalogica Pure Light SPF 30: Hands down my favorite face moisturizer. I have been using this for almost 5 years and I still love how it brightens and protects. My face breaks out on contact with SPF, but this one is formulated to be hypoallergenic. Dermalogica also just released one with SPF 50.

Not Soap Radio "The Phoenix": I always like to have a little bottle of hand cream with me. The packaging is funny and I love the smell of this one but their Cupid is my favorite.

Caught my eye (and my heart)!

1.  Lindsey Thornburg Tamaimi Tail Trench Cloak

2. J.Crew Italian brushed scarf in Navy

3. Harney & Sons Paris Tea

4. Sorel Joan of Arctic Boots

5. Blair Ritchey PAK crossbody in Cognac

6. Liane Moriarty The Last Anniversary

Styleye: Halloween Edition

If you're looking to hang up that sexy catsuit and go for a fun costume this year - may I suggest Iris Apfel. The 93 year old fashion icon has bold signature looks that will make it a breeze for you to get into character. I am sure many of these items can be found in your closet or borrowed...maybe that sweet little old lady next door could lend you her cane for the evening. If the grey wig is pushing it for you, a slicked back pony tail or bun would do the trick. Complete your Iris look with a Kantner or PAK, because I'm sure her bag line of choice is Blair Ritchey...obviously:)

Whatever you choose to dress up as tonight - be sure to share pictures on Instagram. I would love to see your creative getups!

Happy Halloween!!

PS: Today is the LAST day to purchase The Pink Agenda keyrings and cardholders! 

100% of proceeds are going to breast cancer research.  Available here.

The Cleveland Museum of Art

This past weekend my husband and I FINALLY made good on our promise to ourselves that we would spend a Saturday at The Cleveland Museum of Art. Since moving here a year ago and taking the Lolly Trolley around the city, we've had a long list of things we've been wanting to do. Our wedding, my sister's wedding, and taking what felt like forever to get moved in and organized with my business - our poor weekend plans have taken a backseat.

The Cleveland Museum of Art is free to everyone thanks to four Cleveland industrialists that created an endowment and donated the land so the museum could open in 1913 "for the benefit of all the people forever." It is such a beautiful museum and home to many incredible pieces of history. I found myself standing in awe of several items knowing that they were probably prized possessions of someone that lived hundreds of years ago. It is fascinating to think of the history and stories behind each piece. I enjoy reading the description of each, so we didn't get through even half the museum. As we were leaving we both agreed we would be back soon and often!

I hope you, too, had a wonderful weekend!

The Elizabeth & West Shop Girls

Have you checked out the new Shop Girl boxed notecards? The Shop Girl illustrations that I did in collaboration with Elizabeth & West boutique are now available on Carde Blanche stationary! Who doesn't love sending (and receiving!) a little snail mail once in awhile? Surely beats the quick text or Facebook wall post to let someone know you're thinking of them. These adorable, perfect for gifting, notecards come in a box set of 8 cards (2 of each design) and 9 kraft envelopes - yes, an extra envelope for those of us that always seem to be one short. 

You can grab yours online at CardeBlanche.com or pick them in-store at Elizabeth & West Fashion House!

Happy Friday! (whoohoo!)

The Anatomy of: The Mini Lulu

Bringing you "The Anatomy of...", a new series of posts that will give you a better look into what makes Blair Ritchey bags and accessories subtly unique and full of functional luxury. Kicking it off with the very first bag that started it all, the Mini Lulu. From the double-sided leather zipper pull to the hand cut tassel, not one detail is over looked in the making of this beloved little bag. 

P.S. Don't miss out on the Free Shipping on all domestic orders for a limited time!

Spill It!: Political Style

Laura Dunn, is the British gal behind Political Style, a brilliantly refreshing blog that proves there's more to fashion than just peonies and macarons. Her background in journalism and politics and love for fashion blend well in creating engaging topics about culture and style.

So...Laura, what are your "must haves" you're stashing in your pencil case?!

1. Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 - a lifesaver for chapped lips. This pear flavor is delicious! 

2. Bobbi Brown SPF15 Tinted Moisturizer - essential daily coverage and great for touch-ups throughout the day!

3. Two hair grips - for when stray hair becomes a problem!

4. Lovely by Sarah Jessica Parker perfume rollerball - the smell of fresh scent provides a pick-me-up when I need it the most.

5. USB- I carry this everywhere and it has a copy of my important documents, blog information and the novel I am currently writing.

6. Bobbi Brown Cream Blush - for when I need a splash of color on my cheeks! 

7. Colorful Sharpies - to brighten up note taking! 

Thanks for sharing, Laura!

Be sure to hop over and say hello to Laura at Political Style!

The Pink Agenda

Every year when Breast Cancer Awareness month rolls around I am always pleased to see how much it has grown in support. Like too many of you, I have lost loved ones to breast cancer and know women currently battling the disease. So when I was contacted to partner with The Pink Agenda I jumped at the opportunity.

The Pink Agenda (TPA) is a not-for-profit organization committed to raising money for breast cancer research and care, as well as awareness of the disease among young professionals. Born of the belief that engaging today’s generation can go a long way toward finding tomorrow’s cure, TPA finds, funds, and partners with people and programs that are improving the lives of those suffering from breast cancer and conducting the groundbreaking research necessary to improve their odds.

During the month of October the Stripe Cardholder and Keyring will be available in the signature light pink and 100% of proceeds will be donated to The Pink Agenda. Available for purchase online.

I found it flat out alarming to learn that 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer in her lifetime. This statistic vividly illustrates the urgent need for funding as well as awareness which is why I centered the promotion of the collaboration with TPA around it.   

The Pink Agenda has also partnered with Giuliana Rancic and her foundation FAB-U-WISH. Which is huge! 

Remember to grab your TPA Keyring and Cardholder before they're gone!

Elizabeth & West Trunkshow

When college friend, blogger, stylist, and now successful boutique owner, Rebecca Wattenschaidt, asked me to take part in York City Boutique Week, I was thrilled!

It feels like only a few short months since Becky and I sat talking on the phone about her starting an online boutique. For her to now have a beautiful brick and mortar on Beaver Street in York City, it is pretty astonishing. When Rebecca informed me that she was opening up shop and asked if I could do a few illustrations for her that would be used on the sign and other promotional material I couldn't refuse. Um, hello - dream job!

Elizabeth & West is the epitome of my kind of shop. I like to walk into a store and be able to quickly see what they're stocking with one sweeping glance. I am not (wish I was) a hunter when it comes to shopping. If I'm being completely honest, I don't even like to shop, but I love clothes. I think that is why I appreciate spacious organized boutiques like Elizabeth & West.

Rebecca and the City of York did an incredible job promoting the trunk show as well as the entire week of events. Rebecca was up bright and early the day of our show talking about it on Fox 43 morning news and The York Daily Record came in and covered it as well. What a fun time catching up, shopping, talking fall trends, and enjoying local food. I love seeing small cities like York doing big things. I look forward to visiting again soon.

(Left to Right) Rebecca and I remembering last minute that we needed a picture together! I am dressed from head to toe in E & W. // The gorgeous storefront. Eek! I was so tickled to see my illustration on the sign. // The spread of Blair Ritchey handbags and accessories. // Friends from college that traveled over 2 hours, Laurie and Jenny. (photo courtesy of York Daily Record)

(Left to Right) Another view of the bags. // Little Lincoln. I love this boy. His momma is one of my dearest friends and has become my right-hand girl for all events. Melissa Lango (yes, THAT Lango) keeps my shit together when I'm feeling overwhelmed. // Melissa, Lincoln, and I packed like we were staying for a month. Neither of us even packed a single outfit - bags and baby things left no room for clothes. My, have things changed! // Lastly, a close up of the array of wallets and Mini Lulu's being prepped for the show!

Huge thanks to Rebecca of Elizabeth & West and to all our friends (old & new) who came out and supported us.

You can shop, follow, and learn more about Elizabeth & West here:

Website | Facebook 

STYLEYE: Weekend Wardrobe

When it comes to my style, I am a girl of habit. I have always adored Carolina Herrera. Her style is classic, clean, and quite predictable. I forever wondered why a fashion designer would wear the same crisp white collared button down and long full skirt. Same thinking regarding Donna Karan - put some color in your wardrobe, woman! However, I rarely switch things up either once I'm hooked on a particular look or article of clothing. Currently, anything silk, pants that stop above my ankle (so I can show off the gold strap of my favorite flats), and the Belt Bag and Lango Messenger get lots of use year round.  I also love topping things off with a big floppy hat, silk scarf, or I've been known to sport my Indians cap from time to time now that I'm a Clevelander. Go Tribe! Just kidding, the only reason I  go to any sporting event is for the food.

Head Scarf: I love this "Just Married" silk scarf by Kate Spade. Hats and head scarves also work nicely to hide those pesky roots, when it's been too long since you've seen your hair stylist.

Top: Simple and white is exactly what draws me to this Gap Eyelet Top

Belt Bag: I love this bag for many reasons, but one silly reason is that it totally fixes the "Should I tuck this shirt in or not?" issue. The belt bag does the half tuck for you :)

Lango Messenger: This is my everyday bag, but I especially like it for traveling. I can pack it full for my carry-on and since the Cement grey goes with everything I can just bring one bag if I need to.

Pants: I found the best floral pants that hit perfectly above the ankle at Haven Style House. This currently is my favorite go-to boutique. You can shop their pieces online if you're not fortunate enough to be local :)

Flats: I came across the all time best pair with a gold ankle strap while I was shopping at Zara in Mexico. I hear they are still available in some stores, but no longer online. However, they have some other pairs that are pretty cool, too.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Mexican Vacation

We just returned from an amazing time in Mexico. I'm always ready to return home after being away, but I'll admit it was hard to accept that this vacation was over. I did a lot of reading, The Husband's Secret is a real page turner. I typically prefer an actual book over reading on an iPad, but I loved how someone suggested I read it and within a few minutes I had it downloaded and started right on the beach. Ahh, technology.  

The weather was perfect, a sunny 85 degrees. Unfortunately, by looking at me you wouldn't be able to tell I just spent a week in Cancun. Pat says I am the only one he knows that goes on vacation pale and comes back pale. He'll be thanking me in a few years. 

Photo booths are the best - a few drinks and ridiculous props always make for a good laugh. Looking back, choosing the enormous blue hat that blocked half the group wasn't the best choice. 

The belt bag is the best travel accessory - like ever. To have my passport and ID right there was amazing and kept me from searching through my bag every time I needed it. I'm just not someone that can be trusted to hold it in my hand through customs. It's like I blackout and drop it somewhere along the way from one security checkpoint to the next. Oh, and the ear bud winder was pretty sweet, too. Who has time for tangled ear buds. That will be available in a few weeks.

After a wonderful trip and some time away from the real world it does feel good to be back in good ol' Cleveland. Although we didn't miss the snow (we got TEN inches while we were gone) we did miss Monroe. 

LivingSocial Trunkshow

I am going to be back in DC on February 1st for LivingSocial's "The Best of DC Trunk Show". It's going to be fun, lots of designers and we will all be offering 25% off everything. Come, have some drinks, and shop!  You can grab your tickets here.

photo credit: LivingSocial