Market Finds: September 2014

Fall is now officially in full swing, and, it being my favorite season, I am excited to dive into it!  I have always loved the change of the leaves, the cooler mornings, the crispness of the air, the sunlight, and of course the cozy aromas of this season. And with that, for me, comes an increased attention to the inside of my home and the desire to gather with family and friends around a harvest table delighting in the seasons bounty.  I begin to dream about setting a dinner table that is rustic and simple, Sunday afternoon picnics that require long sleeves and a glass of red wine, deliciously fragrant candles that welcome you home and beg you to stay, cookie jars full of favorite fall-inspired treats, and the overall warmth and coziness that this season inspires.

As I have been exploring the marketplace in recent months, a few things have captured my eye that bring forward those ideas of cozy days and beautiful gatherings.  I especially love it when I am inspired by unique goods that can only be found in local boutiques or just straight from the artisans themselves.  Below are my six favorite finds that inspire me as this season begins.  They can all be found either in a local boutique near you or directly from the artisan who made them.  Take a look, explore what these artisans are offering & creating, and be inspired by the warmth and beauty of this new season!

1. Burlap Market Tote from Ice Milk Aprons - a perfect tote for the market, an afternoon wine picnic, or just toting around everyday needs!
     (photo credit: IceMilk Aprons)
     Buy:  Ice Milk Aprons Website
     Find Here:  Local Stores
     Follow:  Ice Milk Aprons Facebook Page

2. Mini 3.5oz Apple Picking Soy Candle from P.F. Candle Co - the perfect scent of crisp apples with a hint of autumn; made of 100% soy wax and hand-poured in the USA, this mini candle is travel size and perfect gift size although it comes in larger sizes as well; it is definitely a must have in every home this Fall!
    (photo credit: P.F. Candle Co)
     Buy:  P.F. Candle Co's Website
     Find Here:  Local Stores
     Follow:  P.F. Candle Co's Facebook Page

3. Farmhouse Beehive Salt Cellar from Bowl & Pitcher - an adorable addition to your Fall table setting that will sure to grab the attention of your guests and stash quite a bit of salt too.
    (photo credit: Bowl & Pitcher)
     Buy:  Bowl & Pitcher's Website
     Find Here:  Not currently available in local stores, but only on their website
     Follow:  Bowl & Pitcher's Facebook Page

5. Ticking Dinner Napkins from Raw Materials Design - these dinner napkins come in navy, red, or tan and will lend a rustic feel to your Fall dinner gatherings; they are yarn-dyed 100% cotton and are a perfect 20" square.
    (photo credit: Raw Materials Design)
     Buy:  Raw Materials Design's Website
     Find Here:  Local Stores
     Follow:  Raw Materials Design's Facebook Page

5. Nectarine Jam with Long Pepper, Balsamic Vinegar & Sea Salt from Lemon Bird Handmade Jams - this is by far my favorite flavor from Amy Deaver, the creative artisan jam maker at Lemon Bird Jams; it is a perfect Fall pairing with toasted baguette slices and a dab of goat cheese - yum!
    (photo credit: Bella Vita)
     Buy:  Lemon Bird's Website
     Find Here:  Local Stores
     Follow:  Lemon Bird's Facebook Page

6. Beechwood Spoons from Bowl & Pitcher - every kitchen needs a set (or two or three!) of these spoons; they would also make a lovely hostess gift paired with a tea towel or a jar of artisan jam (see #5!)
    (photo credit: Bowl & Pitcher)
     Buy:  Bowl & Pitcher's Website
     Find Here:  Not currently available in local stores, but only on their website
     Follow:  Bowl & Pitcher's Facebook Page