Our “Fav Maine” Gift Guide

Here comes the season- or, excuse us- ’tis the season, already! With many a turkey getting ready for Thursday, the season where holiday sales abound and gift guides galore offer ideas for all the names on your list is upon us. It can be overwhelming, truthfully, but then again sometimes when we find ourselves struggling to find just the thing looking up a good guide can be really helpful. We’ve tossed together some (but certainly not all- the list could go on and on!) of our favorite local brands for our go-to holiday gifting. Admittedly, this list has a slightly feminine slant- though what human doesn’t appreciate some luxe cashmere (they come sans pom, too!), a good coffee mug, and chocolate?! And if the holidays come and go and any of these items didn’t wind up in a box for you, we fully support a treat yoself splurge or two to get ready to ring in 2019- which, woah, we’re getting ahead of ourselves here- but it’s gonna be a good one…right?

Woodboogah Kennebunkport Beanie. $150 We love this chic cashmere beanie as the cozy companion for all our holiday travels. (Fun Fact: The pretty lady wearing the beanie is also the artist responsible for 4!)
Maine the Way Magazine Subscription. $90 This quarterly publication is the gift that keeps on giving! Stunning photography and stories from all over Maine all year long.
Thirdlee & Co. Felted Mussel Shell Ornament. $42 Michelle’s handmade beach treasure will be a decor favorite. Maybe even start a holiday tradition?! She is constantly adding in new beauties!
Sarah Madiera Day Blues and Hues Original Print. $40 Sarah’s interpretation of Maine’s landscape is modern and fresh. We love how this piece brings an expansive personality to any wall.
Campfire Studios Marbled Sandstone Mug. $42 A piece of art that can hold your coffee and tea! We fell for the sleek lines of this daily driver.
Nell Ballard Golden Opal Ring. $180 We have been fans of Nell’s stunning designs for years and this ring is one of our favorites!
Black Dinah Dark Chocolate Truffles + Sea Salt Caramels. $37.50 Luxurious truffles and caramels that will make her day, week, month… (as long as they last!)
Watts in Maine State of Maine Necklace. $98 A special piece of jewelry made out of a lobster gauge (the tool Lobstermen use to measure each lobster) and stamped in our favorite shape!
Eklund Griffin Buoy Block Clutch. $200 A gift to last a lifetime! Leather tanned in Maine and handmade in Connecticut this New England made clutch only gets better with age.
Island Apothecary Rose Serum. $30 We each have a bottle and swear by this miracle serum! Our skin instantly feels better after just a little drop, it moisturizes, protects and heals and is packed with vitamins that help even skin tone and diminish scars. Mic drop!

11.18.18

Holiday Road Trip Destination : Sugar Tools

With the holidays right around the corner (how is that possible?!) we are making our lists and checking them twice before planning our gift shopping. With the convenience of the internet, you could do all of your holiday shopping from home… buuuut there is just something so special about wandering around a beautiful shop and exploring the treasures and gifts carefully and beautifully displayed.

We personally love to take little road trips in the month or so leading up to the big day and explore other coastal towns- like Camden! First on our list is a visit to Sugar Tools. Discovered many years ago, we have always looked forward to the full sensory experience of walking through Amy O’Donnell’s thoughtfully curated space. She has brought together a diverse collection of home, gift, garden, wardrobe, stationery, and accessories… (just to name a few categories she stocks) the list is endless and every sweet space is brimming with unique finds.

Set your GPS for 29 Bayview Street in Camden, Maine for a shopping trip that is almost guaranteed to provide you with a little something for everyone.

Happy gifting! Hayley + Blair

P.S. And if you’re like us and shopping works up an appetite – we highly recommend taking a short stroll down the road to stop in at Long Grain for a delicious bite! The Asian cuisine will leave you so satisfied, and simultaneously hungry for more!

10.23.17

Fall Fashion: FatFace

At first blush, the name may seem confusing for a clothing brand…. but for the avid skiers in our midst- you will understand. FatFace was started by two friends and skiers who shared a love for a ski run called “La Face” in the French Alps. Do you know it? From personal experience, we can attest that when starting and naming a business with a partner it’s good to look at what you share- passions or last names, and go from there.

Unsurprisingly, given the founders active lifestyle, FatFace designs clothing, shoes and accessories that are comfortable, practical and fashionable. With six stores across Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island FatFace has brought English style and comfort to a New England audience and customer (can you see us raising our hands?!) that is always up for a wardrobe with the ability to crossover from the cobblestones of downtown to the adventures available even further out-of-doors. As we transition from summer to fall we are coming into the season of layers, and their Portland store, located on Exchange Street, is full of sumptuous sweaters and scarves perfect for keeping close at hand in your tote so when the sun goes down you have just the extra layer you need to stay toasty warm!

Get out there and play! Blair + Hayley

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Post sponsored by Fat Face in Portland, ME.

7.28.17

Shop Spotlight… k colette

Pictured left to right: Sarah creative director, Megan e-commerce manager/photographer + Karen owner/founder

You don’t have to be a Reiki healer to pick up on the amazing energy of k colette. As a team, as a store, and as a brand, k colette sets the bar high.

The moment you pass through the door of this home design boutique you’re compelled to slow down. Everything about the space begs you to indulge your senses, relax, and take pleasure in the expertly curated collections of carefully and beautifully made things from near and far.

We frequently pinch ourselves because we live in an extraordinary place (thank you, Vacationland) and are surrounded by such a warm and amazingly talented community. Since before we had even launched Eklund Griffin (and still today!), the team at k colette has provided us with vital feedback on all aspects of our startup adventure and product development- our brand is stronger because of our relationship with these wonderful visionary women.

When you come to visit Portland, Maine be sure to stop by and experience k colette for yourself at 100 Commercial Street – you can also shop their website!

Here’s what they have to say about starting the store, creativity, and what’s next!

Read on! Blair + Hayley… SEE MORE

7.14.17

Beach Day Round Up

If there is anything that goes with a New England summer better than a beach day, we don’t know what it is. One of the hardest parts of being adults, we’ve come to discover, is not having summer vacation for two and a half months. So, when we do get the opportunity, we toss all of our favorite beach things in a bag, like a Wave Weekender :), and hit the seaside!

Like with all things, being prepared is the key to enjoyment. Just as a snowstorm is less fun in flip flops and a tank top, the beach can be pretty rough without proper sun protection, hydration and snacks. Always snacks!!! There are times in life to push your comfort zone and times to embrace it, the beach is a place we consider the latter. With a nice reclining chair, a Fair Sea Supply Co. round Turkis towel (that you will want to wrap around you for life!!!), and some refreshing bubbles how can the day go wrong? Oh, and if we don’t have a cooler and sufficient ice packs we make sure to bring a few bucks for a cold indulgence. Usually there is some kind of ice creamy place near the beach- thank goodness!

Happy weekend! Blair + Hayley

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6.9.17

Interview… Roula of Sewcialite

Sometimes life happens, I think we can all relate to that. But the call to be creative doesn’t really go away. If being around Hayley has taught me anything it’s that creativity is like steam and if you don’t let it off here and there you’ll practically explode like a confetti-filled piñata. This is similar to the experience of Roula, the founder and maker of Sewcialite, a beautiful collection of handstitched rope baskets available on Etsy. Her creativity effervesces as much as the radiance behind her smile. I’m not sure you will ever meet a more upbeat go-getter with such a zest for life, her family, and her craft. Currently, and for the near future, a one-woman show, each and every rope creation she stitches is uniquely individual and made with so. much. love! We adore our Sewcialite baskets and use them, literally, all around the house. We had the great pleasure of meeting Roula for coffee (and cheese danish for Blair, because, snacks always!) and as the minutes wizzed by we were so inspired by her passion and drive.

See our interview with her below!

Happy weekend! Blair + Hayley

SS+C: What was the spark that started Sewcialite?

Sewcialite began in 2010. I was working full time, and decided to enroll in pattern design classes. I met an amazing woman (my mentor) Janith Bergeron (Designs by Janith). She taught me the fundamentals and fueled my passion for design. I am so grateful to have met her and to have had the opportunity to learn from her. At the time my focus was on designing women’s clothing. I was selling my designs on Etsy and blogging about my experience. I coerced my good friends to model my designs and we did a photo shoot in Portsmouth.

With the birth of my first child in 2011 I put Sewcialite on hold to focus on my family. Honestly, I had not seen my sewing machine since then, but 2 months ago I realized I desperately needed a creative outlet, something just for me. So I decided to make a rope basket and I haven’t been able to stop since.

SS+C: What has been the most rewarding aspect of starting/owning your own business?

I have been working in corporate settings as a business analyst/project lead for the past 13+ years. I am still working full time as I try and grow my business. It’s been amazing to have the opportunity to be my own boss. I love the freedom of calling the shots and setting and achieving my own business goals.

SS+C: What were/are the most important elements to you when you set up your creative environment?

Complete chaos! My creative environment typically involves breaking up fights with my 2.5 year old and 5.5 year old, or having my 2.5 year old sit on my lap while I sew. There is a lot of stop and go, disruption, and multitasking that occurs as I design, photograph and post my pieces. Sometimes I think to myself if people could only see what is going on behind the scenes they would laugh hysterically!

SS+C: Where is the most exciting place Sewcialite has taken you?

Social Media, especially Instagram has been such an amazing space. I feel so fortunate to have met so many talented and awe inspiring artists and entrepreneurs. Including Eklund Griffin! Instagram is an awesome community that I am proud to be a part of.

SS+C: How do you gather and process inspiration?

I grew up on the southern coast of Maine and NH. Having always lived near the water I feel it has truly shaped my modern coastal aesthetic. It’s very fitting since my medium is rope and it’s a natural material. Growing up in Maine and NH allowed me opportunities to enjoy nature, the outdoors and all 4 seasons.

SS+C: How has your style, aesthetic, and/or business changed/evolved since you first started?

When I first began designing my aesthetic was very trendy. Today, I am much more classic but with a modern twist. My lifestyle is so different, being a mom and working full time. Today my business goals are much more conservative, I am hoping for a slow and steady growth over time.

SS+C: What is the best piece of business/life advice you’ve ever received?

Work hard and be nice to people. You have to put in the time, nothing happens overnight, and you have to be kind and honest, that goes a long way in the business world.

SS+C: What has been your happiest moment owning your own business?

Seeing my designs in someone’s home. How they have styled it. It brings me the greatest joy when someone shares a photo and appreciates the workmanship and time I put into one of my pieces. I feel like I put a little piece of myself into every design.

SS+C: What advice would you give to someone starting their own business?

Set realistic expectations and goals that you can accomplish the first month, 3 months, 6 months, the first year. It’s important to pace yourself so you don’t burn out.

SS+C: What is something about your business people should know, but probably don’t?

That there are many late nights, a lot of juggling and multitasking that goes into building this business and allowing me to follow my design dream.

3.31.17

Spring Style Roundup

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Up here, in our corner of the northeast, spring is still deciding whether or not to settle in. It’s as though the world around us has dipped a toe into the waters of spring and decided, “nah,” and put it’s parka back on for a bit longer. As one who has a terrible time ripping myself our from under my down comforter… I cannot pass judgement. But I digress.

Despite feeling like slow spring adopters this year, we have already found ourselves driving around town with the windows rolled down. Be bold, right? All you need is forty degrees (well, maybe forty-two)! But it’s never too early to start planning. Be prepared, as the inner girl scout reminds us. So, we’re looking ahead to a day when our puffy jackets will be replaced with something more waterproof for those famous April Showers and street style is once again inclusive of the underneath layers! The two looks we’ve pulled together here are the kind of outfits that embrace comfort, but also make you feel like you are lookin’ fine and wouldn’t mind being seen out and about. Those are the best of times. We won’t talk about our fashion worst of times….

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We spotted more than a couple instant favorites from the Swedish brand Stutterheim, but fell especially hard their rubberized cotton rain jacket for the season ahead. We loved it so much, we want two. And just like giving a mouse a cookie, if you give a girl a rain jacket… obviously she is going to need the rest of the outfit to go with it and a little bling to top it all off! The gorgeous rings are made by one of the loveliest and talented jewelers there ever was, Nell Ballard of Belle by Nell. Her handmade creations are so special and made with so much love and care! If that doesn’t make you feel like a million bucks walking around, even if it is raining on your head, then we don’t know what will!

Cheers to spring! Blair + Hayley

1.30.17

Maine Maple Rosemary Gimlet. Uh, YUM!

There’s a new kid on the (chopping) block! Well, marble slab if we’re going for accuracy. This beauty of a bottle contains our family favorite when it comes to liquor: gin! Gin and tonics have always been the drink of choice at family events, and we love the nautical spin Nautical American Gin has taken with their recipe. Nautical American Gin hails from New Hampshire and launched in 2015. They’ve sponsored this post and a gimlet competition that we’re participating in. We will let you know how you can vote for your favorite version through the month of February by updating this post and our Instagram and Facebook!

Nautical has included 15 unique (and global!) ingredients to round out the flavor of their gin, which is made in the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. We don’t dare call ourselves experts… so for those of you interested in a more technical critique of the product read this! Where we do feel comfortable throwing our say around is with the design of the bottle and brand. 1. we love this color. 2. we love adventure/exploration- which Nautical has really made a pillar of the brand. 3. anybody else notice the lovely touch of Morse Code on the bottle? So salty. Mmm mmm mmm!

For this post, we’re departing from our standby g+t to try out a different spin on another gin classic- the Gimlet. Traditionally speaking a gimlet is really straight forward: gin, lime, simple syrup. We’ve played with the simple syrup to imbibe a bit of Maine via maple syrup and a touch of herby earth with some fresh rosemary. The rosemary, in our opinion, compliments the flavors of the gin nicely and the maple sings next to the lime. To try it out for your 21+ year old selves, see the recipe below!

*UPDATE* To participate in the contest and cast your vote for the best reimagined Gimlet go to Nautical Gin’s Facebook and Instagram to like your favorite cocktail by February 20th!

Ingredients:

Water
Maple Syrup (we used Maine maple syrup… we hear Vermont has some tasty stuff too!)
Fresh Rosemary
Nautical Gin
Lime Juice (fresh squeeezed is preferable!) and a slice for garnish
Ice
Seltzer Water (optional)

To make the maple simple syrup combine in a small to medium saucepan equal parts water and maple syrup and a sprig of fresh rosemary. This is really to your personal preference… if you like a strong earthy/herb note throw in an extra sprig! We’re not very scientific over here. Bring to a boil, remove from heat and let steep 10 or so minutes. Blair forgot about it while she ate her Annie’s Mac ‘n Cheese so it got a good 20 minute rest. 🙂 Again, not rocket science! Remove the rosemary and take a moment to enjoy the heavenly scent of the maple soaked sprig. Discard… preferably via compost (plug for mother nature!).

Once the simple syrup has cooled to room temp get your cocktail shaker out! Fill it with ice then add in 3 parts Nautical gin, 3 parts fresh squeezed lime juice and 2 parts maple rosemary simple syrup. We tried 1 part of the syrup at first, but we aren’t strong enough to handle the strength of the lime… so we tossed in an extra splash of sweetness to offset. Try a mini version and adjust to your tastes! Then, have a little solo dance party and shake that baby up! If your shaker is metal your hands will get ever so slightly cold. We promise, it’s worth it!

Pour into your gimlet glass, or any container without holes (this is what we did!). Finish with a pretty slice or wedge of lime (not that you’ll need the extra flavor!) and a mini sprig of rosemary. This is mainly for outward appearances, but it makes for a nice olafactory experience, too… especially if you take a rosemary leaf up the nose. Not that that happens(ed)…

We hope you have as much fun making and enjoying this drink as we did at 10:00 in the morning! Gotta get that winter sunlight when it’s best for the photos! Work can be so hard sometimes. 🙂

Happy sipping! Blair + Hayley