Shopping in style ...

Liz White, owner and creative force
behind Mason & Madison

Every now and then I discover a well-decorated store that inspires a post. Mason & Madison is one of those visual-eye candy kind of places. Crystal chandeliers, powder blue walls, and a series of glamorous black and white vintage photography are the stylish backdrop, while lots of windows on all three sides make it a pleasure to shop in this warm and sunny boutique.

2 Central Street, Middleton, MA • phone 978.777.8883
(within the Middleton Green Shopping Village)


But don’t let its good looks fool you, it is also run by creative and smart business owner, Liz White, who recently received the 2009 Rookie of the Year Award from the Massachusetts Retailers Association. Personally, I love this store because it is a great example of the power in supporting local talent ... her shelves are lined with products and gift items many of which are made by local moms inspired out of necessity or the desire to create.


Binkie blankets and baby hats
from Meryl Apparel.


Here is a virtual tour of this charming boutique. If you live close by, stop in and say you saw my post. For everyone else, online ordering is available (designing gifts with style is their specialty, ask if you need ideas).


Hot new item: wine pours (cork your bottle
and then pour without letting air in).
Monogramming is available.


Photo charms by Pink Bird Designs
(read more about them here).

Blinged out belt buckles and baubles
by Beadorable Designs.

Is this bottle not gorgeous?
Bubble bath by Lollia

Gifts for new moms like this chic bag
from Petunia Pickle Bottoms.

Cute items for baby boys ...

and toddler girls.

For the doll collector ...

a wardrobe of fashionable choices.
(Iris would approve ; )

A “why didn’t I think of that?” gift item ...
personalized buckets decorated with fun fabrics.

Gift items and baskets for the foodie.

Plus plenty of candy to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Even perfect gifts for pet lovers.

Cute tees and so much more!

Q. Do you know anyone in need of a
gift-giving fairy godmother?

A. Because Liz White is a firm believer in giving back.
www.reason2give.org

A special present for you last minute shoppers ...
stylish gift wrapping is available at no charge!

Tablescapes Spotlight: The Green Egg and WWS Woodworks

“Happy Eco-Birthday!”

There is so much that I love about this tablescape from the North Shore Design Show designed by Tracy Davidow of The Green Egg and featuring handcrafted pieces by William Smith of WWS Woodworks.

1. The cake. How deliciously-cute is that? And if you can’t bear to cut into it, there is a cupcake or two for each guest.

2. Sarfari Masks. At one of my favorite birthday parties, we gave all the kids masks like the ones that Tracy used for this earth-friendly event (her shop features many eco-aware items that are made from recycled materials). The pictures that we took of the masked children were wildly adorable!

3. Mini Red “Suitcase.” The tiny suitcases at each place setting are another favorite of mine ... they are great for containing all of those itty-bitty treasures that our little ones collect. Perfect for packing as an on-the-go toy chest (or entertainment at the ready). I highly advise one for each child! (available in a variety of colors)


4. The Table. I am always looking for farm tables, and this beauty by William Smith is a must-see. It has a smooth-as-satin finish while still maintaining its made-by-hand good looks.

5. Wordly Decorating. From the globe-inspired floor cushions to the “we are the world” mural, this party celebrates the connections we all share. Contact Tracy at The Green Egg for design resource information and availability.


I picked up four of these had-t0-have-them
twig pencils after the show ... I couldn't resist!
My boys thought they were cool, too.

Mention that you saw The Green Egg on my blog,
and you will receive 10% off your purchase. Enjoy!

More great works from William Smith ...

Ledge Trunk with gently closing lid makes a great toy box
and this golden baby cradle may also be used
to hold favorite dolls and creatures.

Iris Coffee Table by WWS Woodworks
This piece is stunning ... simple lines and beautifully crafted.

“WWS Woodworks is dedicated to preserving the environment, reducing global climate change and promoting sustainable forestry. A primary focus is to conduct business in an environmentally responsible and proactive manner. WWS aims to conserve natural resources, minimize waste, encourage energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources.”
– from the WWS website

Visit William’s website to learn more about his design philosopy. Contact him to arrange a studio visit, or to commission a piece for your own home or as a gift.

WWS Woodworks Studio/Shop
39 Liberty Street, Newburyport, MA
617-877-7447
wwswoodworks.com

baby gifts • birthday party gifts • clothes • beach toys • tees

Stop in for a visit or shop on-line.

19 Central Street, Manchester-by-the-Sea
www.thegreeneggshop.com
978-525-3445