behind the scenes Archives - Page 13 of 49

November 17, 2015

Lamps Plus Holiday Gift Guide Sweepstakes

I’ve teamed up with Lamps Plus to do a fun giveaway of some of my favorite pieces this holiday season! If you have a list as long as your arm to shop for, like me, you know the importance of not breaking the bank as you cross off all of those loved ones’ names. My five favorites are above – Lola Modern Acrylic Lamp, POP Stoneware Teapot, Aeneas Votive Candle Holder, Spectra Tumblers Set, and Turquoise Cloud Glass Vase – are all affordable, and if these don’t strike your fancy there’s bound to be something else in Lamps Plus’ massive offerings that will. They’re also sharing a coupon code, use GiftGuide15 through December 31st for $10 off your order of $150 or more.*

How To Enter:
1. Follow Lamps Plus on Facebook and Instagram.
2. Comment and tag a friend on either social channel, for multiple entries tag additional friends individually. Specify which item you’d like to win and both you and a friend will each win that gift!

Winners will be notified by Lamps Plus on or about November 30th.

Complete rules can be downloaded here.

This promotion is no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Instagram. By entering, each entrant releases and agrees to hold Facebook and Instagram harmless from any and all claims and liability arising out of the entrants participation in this sweepstakes.

* Redeemable online, or by phone. Not valid at LampsPlusOpenBox.com. Minimum purchase requirement excludes shipping and applicable taxes. Offer valid on regular priced, in-stock merchandise only; not valid on special orders or previous orders, sale items, mark-downs, clearance center items, or with other coupons or discounts. One coupon per customer, one time use only. Offer is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash or gift certificates. In the event of a return that lowers the total purchase amount below the coupon’s minimum purchase requirement, the coupon savings amount may be deducted from your refund. Not valid on all brands. Other restrictions may apply. Call 800-782-1967. Coupon expires: 12/31/15

Posted In behind the scenes, house and home, living, series, sponsored post, win it

November 16, 2015

EPICfail (+ a Giveaway)

I’ve been a fan of Christine Fail’s jewelry since she launched her first line, and only fell more in love with her classic organic pieces after meeting her in New York a few months ago. Christine’s latest line – EPICfail – is a foray into higher end jewelry that launched in September. The collection of 14k gold and sterling silver jewelry is accented with rose-cut diamonds and is intentionally ring-focused, with many of the pieces designed as contemporary ceremony rings. The collection includes six rings in a variety of widths and thicknesses, three pendant necklaces, two pairs of earrings, and a cuff. The line still fits Fail’s minimal aesthetic, but elegant texture is the focal point.

“With EPICfail, I’m returning to my roots in fine jewelry. I have been excited by the challenge of incorporating some of the more advanced techniques I am mastering, such as wax carving and stone setting, into the collection,” Fail says. “I’ve always been my own muse — creating pieces I would want to wear, knowing there was a customer with my sensibilities — and the same applies to EPICfail.”

We’re giving away one of my favorite pieces – the Slope Ring (above right) – or $495 towards anything else in the EPICfail collection! Christine is also offering readers 20% off with code EPICDESIGN through 11/25.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

George Barberis, photography
Estelle Manifesto, model
Samantha Hough, hair/makeup

Posted In behind the scenes, create, jewelry, sponsored post, style, wear it

November 12, 2015

Enter Redesignyl + Win

Last week I dusted off my artist smock (aka opened Illustrator) and teamed up with Alamy, one of the world’s largest online photo libraries, to launch a super fun design contest – Redesignyl. Designers are being asked to reimagine 1 of 16 iconic album covers using Alamy images as the basis for their design, you get to choose up to three Alamy images to use for free. Once submitted your design will be displayed on Redesignyl‘s page where you can go right now to get started. Get your masterpiece submitted by December 18th so that I, along with the other three judges, can choose yours as the best. There will be eight prizes, including an incredible new turntable for the winner!

PS: Can you tell which album cover I reimagined?

Posted In behind the scenes, create, graphics, music, my design, sponsored post

November 9, 2015

Juniper & Scout

Looking for a shop with a little bit of everything? Juniper & Scout has got you covered. They continually track down the best in modern, handcrafted design so you can always find the perfect gift or treat yo self reward. Everything is made right here in the USA by makers who embrace original design, small batch production, and environmental sensitivity (major bonus). Here are just a few of my favorites below. Use the code DESIGNCRUSH20 at checkout for 20% off your total purchase! (Expires 12/15/15)

I reserve the quiet ritual of French press coffee for chilly winter weekends, and vessels don’t get much prettier than this high gloss ceramic beauty with a copper pull.

This bar of Black Gold Equilateral Soap has an activated charcoal bottom to deep-clean pores and is scented with lavender and tea tree essential oils, plus it has that easy-to-grip shape. Pamper yourself or leave it out for guests.

My purse is basically a blackhole, so this Tropical Linen Pouch would be perfect for helping me get organized. It would also make a great gift, you could fill it with other little goodies or toss in a gift card.

Moscow mules are my cold weather cocktail of choice, and while they’re traditionally served in copper mugs I love these copper cups as a chic alternative. I’d also happily use one on the bathroom sink or to plant a few small succulents.

How sweet would this It’s Good to Be Home embroidery look hung over the front door or near the coatrack? I love the modern take on such a traditional craft.

I get so dry when temperatures drop, and this Rosewood + Blood Orange Lotion Ball looks like a fun way to stay moisturized. It would also make one heck of a stocking stuffer.

If you are or have a creative insomniac in your life you may want to pick up one of these Creative Ramblings Journals. I’d put mine on the bedside table so I could make note of all of the strange Google searches I think of at 3:48am!

This post sponsored by Juniper & Scout. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush churning out fresh content!

Posted In accessories, beauty bag, behind the scenes, create, house and home, kitchen, living, notebooks + journals, paper goods, sponsored post, style, wear it

November 5, 2015

Design Crush x fashionABLE (+ a Giveaway)

I’ve hinted a little here and there about a collaboration that’s been under wraps since this past spring, and today I finally get to spill the beans! Take a peek at the just released table linens collection that I proudly partnered on with fashionABLE.

I’ve been a huge fan of fashionABLE and their commitment to investing in and empowering women for awhile now. They work with women, both locally and globally, who have overcome challenges ranging from prostitution to addiction to a lack of opportunity. So with your help, fashionABLE works to give opportunity to women where there is often little, and then they effect change.

We worked together to design three different styles of kitchen linens, each named after the woman who created them, Almaz Napkins, the Dechasa Table Runner, and the Legesse Tea Towel. Both the napkins (that come in a set of four) and table runners come in three colors – marsala, indigo, and charcoal. The tea towels come in six variations – white with marsala stripes, white with indigo stripes, white with charcoal stripes, marsala colorblock, indigo colorblock, and charcoal colorblock.

We created the entire table linens collection with two things in mind: the holidays and the ability to mix and match. The marsala, indigo, and charcoal tones all feel cozy and related, but break them apart and they’re equally beautiful. Perfect for the holidays and far beyond.

If you’ll be doing any entertaining this season you can even pick up one of four different levels of Party Boxes. They run the gamut in cost and contain at least two pieces of the linens collection as well as conversation cards, menu cards, and recipe cards. It’s basically a dinner party in a box!

I plan on using everything when I host Thanksgiving later this month, and I truly can’t wait to tell my guests just what the pieces they’re using mean and the part I was able to play in that.

Be sure and check out the rest of fashionABLE‘s offerings –leather, jewelry, and scarves.

Oh, and one more thing – we’re giving away a set to a lucky one of you! Choose your favorite colorway and win, a Dechasa Table Runner, 4 Almaz Napkins, and 2 Legesse Tea Towels. Break up your winnings as gifts or throw an amazing dinner party of your own. Enter for lots of chances to win below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Posted In behind the scenes, house and home, kitchen, living, my design, series, win it

October 30, 2015

PGH Maker Profile: Sapling Press

Sharing the stories behind the most talented creatives in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.

My connection with Lisa Krowinski of Sapling Press is a little different from my other maker friends here in Pittsburgh. I met her a few weeks after I’d moved back to the area in 2014 when a mutual friend introduced us. Turns out Lisa, a super accomplished and talented stationer with a line of snarky text-driven letterpress cards, was opening a brick and mortar shop in my town. We met up for coffee and I decided to be a part of it on the spot! These days I’m helping at the Sapling & Sons shop a few days a week as well as helping buy, which is immersing me in the stationery world that I’ve always been in love with. Lisa is a smart businesswoman who is also the most laid-back person I’ve ever met, a rare combo that she makes working the best way.

Every company has to have a motto!

Tell us a little bit about how you got your start with Sapling Press.

I started Sapling Press while working as a graphic designer in Baltimore. I think I was destined to have a small business ever since I was a kiddo. I used to paint pictures and sell them door to door, and would sell candy instead of lemonade outside my house. I have a lot of hard working entrepreneurs in my family so starting my own thing never seemed undoable. I used to collect the old letterpress cuts because of the design element to them, but I eventually wanted to learn how they were used in practice. I found a woman in Baltimore with a press in her home, and she taught me how to print and handset type in a private 4-hour class. I was hooked. Within 4 months I found and purchased a press, rented a studio space with friends, and exhibited at my first National Stationery Show. I had no clue what I was doing and it showed. Fortunately I’m a big fan of the “slow and steady…” life motto and over time the business grew into what it is today.

A beautiful Heidelberg press that’s used to print cards.

What’s your favorite part of the process? Your least favorite?

My favorite part is the product development, designing, and the social media aspect of the business. Not too long ago it was putting on my apron and printing, but as we’ve grown I’ve slowly continued to take a step back from the production side of things. My least favorite part is anything that has me on a deadline. That sounds horrible but very true. My crew is fantastic at it, but personally I’m the wors. When I started the business I was drawn to being able to create anything at any time, and have it be a product almost immediately. In this industry especially, I’m having to design holiday cards several months out, create new releases for several trade shows a year, and so on. So yeah, I love designing, but designing on a schedule is not my thing.

The second of three presses in action. A selection of shunts.

What other makers inspire you most?

I’m inspired most by my local pals who run their own businesses, whatever they may be. I think it’s because I get to peek behind the curtain a bit and personally see how hard they work, how they react to failure, and what they’re hustling and aiming for. Folks like Commonwealth Press, strawberryluna, redraven studios, and so many more. The list of talented people in Pittsburgh is insanely long and it just makes you want to do better to earn and keep your place in the lineup.

Cards recently printed on the Heidelberg.

Where do you see Sapling Press in 5 years?

No idea. Planning is also not my strong suit. I rarely look past what’s happening within the next 24 hours in both life and business, and that way of living always seems to pan out for me. Sapling Press has grown in a way that I could have never planned in a million years, so I’m fine to continue to let it grow on its own in whatever direction it sees fit. In 5 years I see more of the same — a stationery company that continues to stay relevant, showcase clean design and clever copywriting, and gives folks a good laugh.

Sapling Press has 200+ cards in their current collection.

What makes having a small business in Pittsburgh so great?

The affordability and the local support. I don’t think I could have started my business anywhere else. When I left my design job in Baltimore and moved to Pittsburgh 10 years ago I never got another job. Sapling Press became my full time gig because my husband and I could afford to live off of one salary here. That’s almost unheard of in a lot of cities, and it played a big roll in allowing me to focus on the business. And Pittsburgh loves local. We’re fortunate to have a long list of clients that have been with us since day one, supporting what we do even when so many other business and online options have become available to them. I’ll never leave.

Posted In cards, create, paper goods, pittsburgh

October 22, 2015

Balancing Life with the UP2

Activity trackers aren’t exactly a new fad, and to be honest I’ve been known to make fun of those who are evangelists for them in the past. But ever since being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes a year and a half ago, suddenly all kinds of health issues that weren’t important in the past are a big deal. Carb intake, working out, getting enough sleep – all things that I’m paying way more attention to these days. Also things that Jawbone’s UP2 are helping me track and even improve upon! Hi, Pot. It’s Kettle. Let’s talk.

I stopped wearing a watch years ago because having it bang against my desk and keyboard while designing was enough to drive me crazy. I was happy to find that the band on the UP2 is an adjustable soft rubber bracelet, and I’ve had zero problem wearing it 24/7. After two weeks it’s already become a habit that I’m not eager to break, and keeping track of everything has become like a competition with myself. It even manages to go with my wardrobe when I stack on bracelets – no small feat! And on days when I forget to throw on any accessories it simply looks like a modern bracelet.

My UP2 has been tracking everything from movement to diet to sleep, and yet I feel like I’ve barely scratched the surface of its functionality. I’m looking forward to experimenting with the idle alert which keeps you from staying in one place for too long, and the alarm that gently wakes you up in the morning by vibrating your tracker.

I’m not a person who’s ever been extremely active, so I have my goal set to 8,000 steps a day. The difference now is that I’m eager to check my steps as soon as I’ve done an activity – like run on the treadmill, gone grocery shopping, or walked my dogs! I wasn’t expecting just how addicting it would be.

Being able to keep track of every bite of food I put in my body throughout the day is incredibly important to sticking to my recommended 45 carb per meal limit. It’s a relief to know that there’s a record of the results somewhere other than in my mind, and that I can go back and look at what I ate when I was having an especially energetic or exhausting day.

For the past six months I’ve been struggling with sleeping well, I believe it to be a side effect of a new diabetes drug that I’m taking. I don’t have a tough time falling asleep – it’s the staying asleep that’s difficult. Because I wear my UP2 to bed it actually tells me how many times I woke up during the night, when I was sleeping light, and when I was in a deep sleep. In the morning it gives me a report and mentions tips like doing light let lifts when I can’t get back to sleep and getting up to do something productive if I’m restless. This has been my favorite function so far!

What I initially thought was a fad has become a part of my everyday life, and a tool in treating my diabetes. At this point I can’t imagine not wearing my UP2 when it even manages to seamlessly blend into my day-to-day, from lifestyle to wardrobe.

This post sponsored by Jawbone. All words and opinions are my own, as always. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Design Crush producing fresh content!

Posted In behind the scenes, living, my life, sponsored post, technology

September 25, 2015

PGH Maker Profile: TROIKA Skateboards

Sharing the stories behind the most talented creatives in my hometown of Pittsburgh, PA.

Dave Kaule and Dan Rugh are known movers and shakers around Pittsburgh, it’s just a fact. From Dave’s Monster Trike Night to Dan’s CWP Beer Barge (and many more in between), some of the raddest events in town are from the minds of these two standup guys. They’re both creative minds with outgoing personalities, so it only made sense when the two good friends teamed up to form something new, and that something turned out to be TROIKA Skateboards.

Three of Troika’s current line of eight deck designs.

Tell us a little bit about how you got your start with TROIKA Skateboards.

Dave: About 10 years ago I had a skateboard company called Triad Skateboards. It was growing really fast, but some unfortunate things happened in my life which caused me to derail a bit. That ultimately brought an end to Triad Skateboards. Three or four years ago Dan Rugh and I were trying to work together. He had asked me if I would want to start Triad back up, but that was a time in my life I wanted to leave in the past. He suggested a completely new company and at first I wasn’t sure about it. I realized it was all I was thinking about though so it only made sense. We knew the vibe and feel we both wanted for the company and just needed a name and artwork. That was something that came to us over a few beers and tacos.

Dan: I honestly dont know – I guess me and Dave had been back and forth with a billion projects we wanted to do together and TROIKA just seemed so dead on perfect for the way we interact with each other. Pretty vague but dead on true.

Dave showing off some well-earned skills. Photo: Casey Kovach

What’s your favorite part of the process? Your least favorite?

Dave: I would have to say working with Dan is my favorite part. We both are hyperactive thinkers and come up with some off the wall stuff. I think in terms of partnership dynamics there might be some talking down from some stupid goofy idea and instead we encourage each other to even go further with said idea. As far as the least favorite part I really don’t have one. I really enjoy all of it.

Dan: I love the art end of it. Designing the decks, working with illustrators on their ideas for decks, planning out the line, merch ideas. My least favorite is trying to pay attention to what needs done production-wise. This whole thing is a really fun side project so we both treat it like that – a lot of things get ignored until they are on fire or screaming or bleeding.

Dave and Dan talking shop while Dave’s pup, Chloe, takes notes.

What other makers inspire you most?

Dave: I have a number of local makers that stoke me out. To name a few: I love illustrations from Mike Budai, everyday balloons, and Joe Mruk. Jeff Justus of Penn Soul makes art both visually and musically, and he has been experimenting with some custom handmade sidewalk surfer skateboards that are incredible. Lastly Wendy Downs of Moop, her bags are beautifuly designed and manufactured by her here in Pittsburgh.

Dan: I get super stoked on strawberry luna. I think Kim Fox is killing it regularly. Sapling Press is always on top of this list, too. Matt Dayak can make anything out of anything. I think Moop is a local treasure.
Hell, theres this lady up in Benezette, PA that carves egg shells all crazy and puts hinges on them with little moving doors and windows – my grandpa knew her and took me there when I was about 9 and I’ve never forgotten it. This could go on forever.

Decks stacked up in Commonwealth Press for sale.

Where do you see TROIKA in 5 years?

Dave: I think I speak for Dan and myself when I say we just want to see TROIKA keepin’ skateboarding movin’ in a positive direction. Getting the younger generation hyped and involved with skateboarding in Pittsburgh.

Dan: Pittsburgh.

TROIKA shirts up for grabs at Commonwealth Press.

What makes having a small business in Pittsburgh so great?

Dave: Pittsburgh has a great community of doers. People doing cool shit for the love of what it is they are doing. I love skateboarding and I am stoked to be a part of the Pittsburgh small business community.

Dan: I don’t want to talk about it because everyone will want to move here and screw it all up.

Dave during a session. Photo: Matt Dayak

Posted In create, graphics, illustration, pittsburgh

September 10, 2015

An Outdoor Autumn Harvest Party

I think we’re all too fast to run inside once the temperatures begin to fade, don’t you? There’s something to be said for embracing the harvest season that’s almost here, cozying up in layers, and enjoying this time of year and all it has to offer before the hustle and bustle of the holidays take over. As I mentioned before, I’m bent on putting my backyard and decks to good use this autumn – plenty of game day get togethers, birthday celebrations, and fire pit parties are already on the docket. I like having an arsenal of dinnerware and serving pieces set aside especially for this time of year and the type of entertaining that I associate with it. What does that mean? Nothing overly precious, pieces that are functional and earthy in material and tone, and a bit heavier than my summer wares.

Metals and woods are my favorite right now. The heft and textures they bring to the table (ahem) are unparalleled and, well, a little bit of shine never hurt anyone! I like it when my table looks pulled together, but not pristine. Matchy matchy is out of the question, so mixing metals and other elements is key to pulling everything off. Pier 1‘s Bronze Palm Leaf Serving Bowl is such a great statement piece that brought form and function to my table in spades.

My favorite recipes for casual get togethers are simple and fresh. For appetizers I like baked zucchini parmesan crisps and whipped Mexican grilled corn dip. I insist on serving a salad of some type – not always of the leafy variety – and can’t wait to try this grilled potato salad with basil, blue cheese, and tomatoes and this perfect for autumn almond apple quinoa salad.

It’s easy to pick up a few growlers of favorite local beers to keep things casual, along with setting out a pitcher of plum spritzers. As the evening cools down even further there’s always a pot of coffee not too far away in the kitchen. I particularly love this Diamond Cut Drinkware because it reminds me of a set of similar glasses my Grandma used to serve iced tea out of every summer.

When entertaining outside I like to lean heavily on my trusty grill and my crockpot. One creates delicious things within a few minutes while the other maintains a set-it-and-forget-it frame of mind, with both results usually being eaten on a bun. Case in point are these fried mozzarella and caramelized peach caprese burgers and pulled honey lime chicken sandwiches with corn and cabbage slaw. Hearty and bursting with flavor, they’ll please even your most picky party-goer. A few lanterns helps to further set the mood. One of my favorite outdoor entertaining tricks is using scented candles, the aroma ends up subtly wafting around in the most pleasant way. Simple white plates and cotton napkins help to bring everything else together. Later on we can carry these down to the fire pit to make s’mores and bask in the warmth of another evening spent in good company with good food and drink.

No get together is complete without a curated playlist, at least not at my house! So of course I had to pull together some of my favorite songs that channel chill vibes and welcome autumn with open arms. Have a listen!

Hoxton Salad Server Set // Mother-of-Pearl Stainless Steel Pitcher // Diamond Cut Drinkware (Amber) // Bronze Palm Leaf Serving Bowl // White Buffet Napkin Set // Landen Mini Lantern // Landen Black Lantern // Pumpkin Chai Pillars

Brought to you by Pier 1. All words and opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush create fresh content!

Posted In behind the scenes, entertaining, living, outdoors, sponsored post

September 2, 2015

Outdoor Living

This summer has felt like a dream. After spending summers in triple degree heat, being back in Pennsylvania this season has been better than I remember. When living in Oklahoma City I always felt like I was jumping from one air conditioned space to the next, spending the shortest amount of time in the sweltering heat in between as possible. I was determined to get my two (yes, two) backyard decks whipped into shape for some outdoor living as soon as possible.

I teamed up with the folks at Overstock to make it happen since I’d either sold or donated the majority of my outdoor furniture before moving last summer. My first goal was to create a space that was functional for entertaining 12 to 15 people at a time, my second was to make the area comfortable during summer as well as fall.

It all began with a few Eco Concrete Samai Planters. I love their industrial look and that they’re heavy enough not to topple over if and when the wind picks up. The plants I’ve used seem to love them just as much and have flourished like crazy.

The most important addition to the upper deck was a patio set. I knew I wanted something constructed primarily out of wood and ended up going with the Carlisle Rustic Metal 3-piece Outdoor Dining Set from Christopher Knight Home. It easily seats six people and I plan on adding chairs to both ends to accommodate a few more.

A Smartfold outdoor folding serving cart from COSCO is the outdoor equivalent of a bar cart. It’s on lockable wheels so I can push it around serving and park it when done. It’s also come in handy when potting plants and making s’mores on the lower deck.

I’ve always been on the fence when it comes to outdoor rugs, but I couldn’t really tell you why. The upper deck is in major need of a fresh coat of paint (next summer’s project!) so I thought a rug might offer a solution. The stripes of this black and bone indoor/outdoor rug by Safavieh do a great job of carrying the aesthetic of the interior of my home to the outdoors. And I have to say, the dogs absolutely love lounging on it.

The last touch on the upper deck, or the deck that connects directly to the house, is the Laguna Park Bench. The geometric backrest is another extension of my style and the wood and metal of the piece tie in perfectly with the patio set and folding cart. I love sitting here watching the dogs while they’re on squirrel patrol in the yard, especially in the mornings with a cup of coffee in hand.

But I have to admit, the lower deck is probably my favorite. When I bought this house almost a year ago I had no plans for its use. Was it built before the upper deck was put on? After? It was and remains a bit of a mystery, but its location right under a gigantic shady tree is just perfect.

I’ve wanted adirondack chairs for years now, in fact I can remember telling my mom that they were one of the first things I’d buy once I had my own home. It didn’t happen quite like that, but these Acacia Square Back Adirondack Chairs now live in perfect formation on the lower deck. They’re super comfortable and I love the pop of light blue against all of that brown. Add a few blankets and we’re all ready for the cozy evenings soon to be spent out here.

The yard itself is mainly the dogs’ domain and I didn’t want to take up their space with a fire pit, but I knew I wanted something similar to gather around come fall. I instantly fell for the Corvus Aviano Black Enamel Finished Wheeled Fire Pit. Again, I love the mobility of this piece. I can wheel it into the yard should the party get too big for the deck.

So, when are you coming over?!

This post sponsored by Overstock. Thank you for supporting the brands that help Design Crush creating fresh new content!

Posted In behind the scenes, house and home, living, my house, outdoors, sponsored post