A new restaurant is coming to South Tampa!

Some of you may have already heard the news, but just in case you haven't, Lisa Gilmore Design is designing  an exciting new restaurant coming to South Tampa, specifically in Hyde Park Village.

So, let me introduce to you Piquant!

Here is a sneak peek of the new look as well:

There is a lot in store for this new place! Check out a bit here, they were featured in the Tampa Bay Times. So in the next few weeks, when you are shopping at Restoration Hardware, Pottery Barn & Williams Sonoma, make sure you stop in on the corner and see what they have to offer. 

Hope to see you there!

xo}L

Day 17 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: LOCAL ART!

I am always a fan of local art. For my current project in St. Pete, I was in need of some good modern art. My client is also a fan of supporting local artists, so off I went to Dazzio Gallery!

The Dazzio Gallery in St. Pete is a one-of-a-kind experience. This place is more than just an art gallery, they have opened their doors to the public, offering art classes for people who have no experience creating art as well as professional artists. The work created here is on display for purchase, so if you’re looking for local art this really is one of the best places to find new and undiscovered talent. You’ll find work in many different mediums from artists of all ages.

Here is one of the pieces I snagged for my client, it's currently getting polished off at the framer!

So, do you have an art lover on your shopping list? This is the place to find some amazing local art that is also at great prices. I highly recommend them, their staff is so warm and inviting and will help you with any of your artsy needs!

Day 16 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: ArtPool

Okay, so I must confess, the vintage lover in me, STILL has not been to ArtPool. I know, I know, so sad. But I will say, I do plan to make that change ASAP! I have a feeling I might become a little obsessed. 

Another unique store on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg is ArtPool. Not only does this boutique have an awesome selection of one-of-a-kind and vintage clothing, accessories and décor, it also serves as an eclectic art gallery featuring local artists. On top of all that, ArtPool also has a great little café with indoor and outdoor seating. If you’re looking for that perfect gift for the vintage-obsessed person in your life –and what to have an awesome shopping experience while looking for it you won’t want to miss ArtPool!

Check them on Facebook

Day 15 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Groovy Cats & Dogs

Got a cat or dog lover on your Christmas gift shopping list? Then you’ll definitely want to stop in to Groovy Cats & Dogs at 2305 West Linebaugh. This isn’t your everyday pet store; Groovy Cats and Dogs is a pet boutique with a focus on holistic products.

 It doesn't matter if you’re shopping for your own pets or someone else’s, the staff here is really knowledgeable and interested in helping you choose the products that will help that dog or cat on your list be the healthiest and happiest they can possibly be! You’ll find foods, toys, accessories, bathing products and even pet art at Groovy Cats and Dogs.

Images via: Groovy Cats & Dogs

Online: http://www.groovycatsndogs.com

Day 14 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Juxtapose

Juxtapose is actually one of my favorite words to use in design, right next to coexist. I love to make fabrics, prints and objects coexist beautifully through juxtaposition. So right off the bat, this next shop surely caught my eye quickly, just with it's name... but inside is a jewel box of lovely finds that I know you will love...

Jux-ta-pose, a cool art studio, apparel and decor boutique in Hyde Park Village just opened up a new holiday concept store called Corner Store by Jux-ta-pose. You can find this holiday gem next to Downtown Dogs and Wine Exchange on Snow Avenue. While the store will only be around for Christmastime it’s a great place to find the perfect gift or charming holiday décor, all at great prices.

photos via: Juxtapose facebook page

Jux-ta-pose was opened by  Karen Wesley and her daughters, Kallie and Lindsay, who were both art majors in college. Their passion for art is apparent as soon as you walk in the door of their shop, which is an absolute must-visit when shopping in Hyde Park Village.

Website: http://shopjuxtapose.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/shopJuxtapose

Day 13 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Cheese Please!

Got a wine and cheese-obsessed friend or family member on your holiday gift shopping list? If so, then a trip to Cheese Please! at 4213 South Manhattan Avenue in Tampa is a must! Not only can you browse an incredible array of wines and cheeses, if you come on the right day you can even have a taste yourself as you listen to the fabulous owners give you the 411 on the pairings. (I recently went for an event with Working Women of Tampa Bay and had the BEST time! The owners are great!) They did a great job with the place, it's friendly and inviting and I feel like I could sit and laugh with my friends for hours.

photo via: Cheese Please!

 Cheese Please! also has some really great décor, servingware and glassware – including some fantastic high heel wine glasses. (See mine below that I snagged!) You really don’t want to miss this little-known South Tampa gem; there’s no doubt you’ll be a return customer! Check out their website for the tasting and events calendar.

Photo via: Lisa Gilmore

Day 12 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Bloom

If you're having any holiday get-togethers, either at home or a work event, decorating with fresh flowers will definitely put you a cut above, no pun intended... okay maybe a little intended! Bloom Garden Shop at 3005 South MacDill in Tampa has a fantastic array of season flowers, arrangements and beautifully crafted live centerpieces. After the holidays Bloom is a great place to find the perfect accents for your outdoor (or indoor!) spaces. They have everything from topiaries and cacti to garden statues and fountains and even patio furniture. So ditch those fake plants this year, create some beauty with some live, lush new friends! 

All photos via: Bloom

Day 11 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Red Herring

The Red Herring Home is one of South Tampa's must-visit furniture and décor shops. If you’re looking for something for your own home or the perfect gift for someone that has an eclectic taste, you should definitely check this place out. They have a really great collection of interesting and unique hand-crafted pieces.

Red Herring really has everything! From furniture and throw pillows (last time I was there, they had really great hand blocked sea life pillows that I just loved!)  to hand-poured candles and one-of-a-kind artwork, you’ll definitely find something for everyone on your list! Take my word for it, they have really beautiful stuff.

All images via: Red Herring

Two locations: 3910 S. MacDill and 4219 West Bay to Bay Boulevard

Day 6,7,8,9,10 of "31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping"

Okay guys, I am a horrible blogger, I have let the blog not only slip up one day, but FOUR days during this series of "31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping" I am terribly sorry for this, and I plan to make it up with some great places to feature!

So here is a great little find, they don't have a brick and mortar store, but you can shop online. I met these gals at a local networking event and fell IN LOVE with their product!!!

So here is all natural, homegrown Simply Caprine Goat Milk Soaps.

Image via: Simply Caprine Facebook

These soaps smell pretty amazing, a bought a ton for holiday gifts this year! Wanna know another cool fact? They milk their own goats for the product! Talk about supporting local...

Image via: Simply Caprine Facebook

Contact Simply Caprine:

Web

Facebook

Day 5 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: The Ultimate Shopping Experience

Why face the crazy malls and over crowded department stores, when you can shop with your gals in a fun environment?

Tonight, presented by Working Women of Tampa Bay is The Ultimate Shopping Experience: Think Pink Holiday Shopping Boutique. So grab some girls and go have fun!

Day 4 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: Stationary

Today, I was thinking that this year I am really going to start working on my holiday cards early, no more procrastinating for this lady! Then, I became a little sad, because it made me realize that this year, I can't visit my favorite stationary shop in the entire world, in my old neighborhood in Chicago, Lakeview East. So I decided that today I would feature this shop, and even though it's not local to Tampa Bay followers, my Chicago friends will enjoy this one. And if you ever get a chance to visit Chicago, you must stop by this amazing little shop! (Also, Tampa friends, if you have a great local stationary shop to recommend, please do!)

So enough with the small talk, let me introduce you to the lovely little shop Inkling. My heart just fluttered a bit as I reminisced walking down Broadway past her always cheery and inviting window displays.

Inkling, has really great, truly unique stationary and gifts. Chances are, if you received a card during my years in Chicago, it was probably from this shop...

I mentioned unique gifts right? It gets better, a large percentage of their store is either handmade/local artists or vintage!

All photos via: Inkling Facebook

I hope this post leaves you feeling inspired and ready to send out some fun Christmas stationary! Next time your in Chicago, put this shop on your list, you won't regret it. And Inkling, as for me and you, I'll see you next time I am up, I will be the girl who camps out for a few hours. ;) 

Connect with Inkling:

Facebook

Web

On Foot: 2917 1/2 N. Broadway Chicago, 60657

Happy LOCAL Holiday Shopping!

xo}L

Day 3 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping: MISRED Outfitters

Today, we are going to get a bit vintage! Our day 3 of our "31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping" is for our vintage pals or friends of them, who need a good gift!

MISRED Outfitters is definitely hands-down my favorite vintage clothing shop in the Tampa Bay Area. They offer a great selection of vintage styles for a price that doesn't leave your scrounging for pennies. In addition to their great selection of vintage, they also have their own line, "misred reconstructed" which is phenomenal!  Here are a few looks that give you the vibe of the store:

Photos via: MISRED Outfitters

Each of the people that work there have some kind of knack for fashion and they will help you put together an outfit that you are comfortable in and will LOVE. I can actually speak from personal experience, I wasn't on board with the look of Harem pants, but I went in, and one of the lovely ladies put together a look for me. Now, I have two different pairs of Harem pants and I want to go back for more!

^^ This is me, on a shoot with Nina Grace Photography my whole look is from MISRED! Harem pants and this amazing caftan top reconstructed from a vintage scarf. I love it more every time I wear it! 

So friends, I urge you to visit MISRED for some of your holiday shopping, clothing, jewelry, shoes and bags, I guarantee you will find some amazing things for people on your list. 

"like" them on Facebook

and visit them in person:

615 Central Ave. 

St. Pete, FL 33701

Happy LOCAL Holiday Shopping!!

xo}L

Day 2 of 31 Days of LOCAL Holiday Shopping! }Beauty

Welcome to day 2 of "31 Days of  LOCAL Holiday Shopping"! With the frenzy of finding the perfect gifts, fighting crazy traffic and picking the perfect outfits for the next few weeks of Holiday parties, you can't neglect your locks! So today's local shopping post is on you guessed it: HAIR! Here are two local ladies that will polish your split ends off and you will be feeling stylish and beautiful.

For my Central Florida followers, let me introduce to you Brittney Costine, stylist at Studio 323 Brittney is a Paul Mitchell hair stylist with a love for color, she can make you whichever color you desire. She brings a fresh and very well educated vibe to the Lakeland hair scene. (Brittney has been doing my hair for many years, I am always pleased with the outcome!)

Here are a few images of her work:

Jeffrey Williams Boring Photography

Both photos via: Brittney's Facebook Page

You can see more of Brittney's work, contact info and to book Here

The next gal, Myah Faraone Caudill, of Studio 9 North is for my Tampa Bay followers. Myah comes to us from the great state of New York, and she brings along all of her urban flair, positive energy and creative vibes. 

Here are a few images of Myah's work:

Both photos via: Myah's Facebook Page

You can see more of Myah's work, contact info and book Here.

Hope you enjoy one of these ladies to make your holiday looks complete!

Happy Holidays!

xo}L

Small Business Saturday! Spotlight: Eugenia Woods, 31 days of Christmas Shopping!

Well my friends, today is Small Business Saturday! You may have stood in line at Best Buy and Target to get those electronic deals yesterday. But from here on out, I encourage you to shop local for your Holiday needs! So, I am making it a little easy for you. Every day, for the next weeks, I am going to feature a small business in the Tampa Bay area. If you have a suggestion for a small business shout out, I would love to hear from you please email me your candidates to be featured.

To kick off this series of blog post, I selected one of my favorite local St. Pete shops: Eugenia Woods , a sister owned company in sunny St. Petersburg, FL , they sell handmade womens accessories with a vintage twist!

Here are a few items you will find in their shop:

Beautiful handmade bags, so many styles to match all the girls on your holiday list!

Unique veiled beanies, (I have one of these, it's such a show stopper, I love it!)

Funky collars of all different fabrics, to add a little somethin' somethin' to your outfit!

Stop by their shop, at the 600 Block of St. Pete, FL, their address is: 

645 Central Ave #10

St. Pete, FL 33701

Or if you can't make it in person, check out their Etsy Shop Here!

Also, show them some Facebook love and "like" their page!

Happy Holiday Shopping!

xo}L

**All photos via Eugenia Woods

Historic Kenwood's Bungalow Fest 2012, Designer Show Home

Hey there design friends! I hope your Fall is off to a good start. Here in Florida we are getting a bit of a cooler breeze, which is very nice, but hoping for safety for the northern states with Hurricane Sandy near.

Last night was the Gala Preview Party for Historic Kenwood Bungalow Fest 2012! I am so excited to be part of this annual event this year. I have met some awesome new people over the last few weeks and hope that it turns into great new friendships!

Yesterday evening, the temps were starting to get a lot more pleasant than our usual 90 degree Florida nights, and I feel like my inspiration room really gave people that cozy fall feeling. Take a peek for yourself and let me know your thoughts!

I personally love mixing old with  new and geometric patterns with florals. The gorgeous art work was provided by Victoria Arendt of Vision 47 Gallery.

The draperies were a huge hit! I found this vintage floral fabric at an estate sale, I squeeled like a little girl when I found out they only wanted $6 for the bolt! So I rushed it over to my drapery workroom, Custom Home Furnishings and she whipped up these beauties for me. 

This mantel is from Schiller's Salvage

I also found these fantastic vintage screens that are from The Tampa Bay Hotel in the 1920's which I also found at Schiller's Salvage. I was so excited that the screens were still available when I went out sourcing for this room, I remembered them from months prior, glad I got to snag them! I think they added the perfect amount of symmetry, history and visual balance for the room!

This great metal bookcase was provided by Paper Street Market

These pretty pillows were handmade by Eugenia Woods, the detail on them is quite stunning. 

And here is myself in my room. If you were able to stop by, it was great to see you, if not, remember that next weekend is actual Bungalow Fest 2012 and you can preview the designer show house along with a number of other bungalows in the neighborhood! 

Special thank you again to all of my lovely vendors, your talent, time and generosity is greatly appreciated! Also, thank you to my supportive husband, family and friends while I put this room together! 

xo} L

Itching for Rhapsody!

Who else is just as excited about Kelly Wearstler's new book Rhapsody? Mine is pre-ordered and I can't wait to pick it up off my door step!

Image via: Amazon

Her design work, be it interior or fashion is one of a kind and never disappointing. Every time I see a bit of her work, I am always left wanting more. 

Image via: Kelly's Pinterest

Until the 23rd, we are just left counting the days to sink our eyes into this book, I am sure it will be just as good, if not better than her previous books! 

3 days and counting,

xo}L

Inspiration, Inspiration On My Wall

Design, art, and all things creative are things that I surround myself in daily. It could be paintings, fashion, interior design, any of it. I live, breathe, eat and sometimes even talk in my sleep design. (seriously, I've had a convo or two about wallpaper in my sleep.) 

So for me, pinning my inspirations is a daily routine. With virtual pin boards like Pinterest, it makes it easy for everyone to do this. There is something about an actual pin board, that gives me good design vibes. I just love the act of pinning it and then looking at it when I am in need of a bit of design pick me up. 

There are so many types of inspiration boards that you could create. This is a snippet of my board in my office:

Wallpaper, fabric, photos, notes and quotes. I've got it all. ^^

Here are a few different styles of inspiration boards that stuck my fancy. For whatever type of organization style you may have...

A big thick frame and very tailored pins...

Image via: Pinterest

Bright and sunny!! Bring on the inspiration my friend...

Image via: Pinterest

You know I'm always a sucker for a dark wall. And of course I love the chaos of these boards. I am sure it is completely organized to the owners though :)

Image via: House Beautiful

Tailored boards trimmed out with nailhead? Talk about glam! This looks like something you would surely find in Barbara Barry's office. I wonder what her inspiration boards look like?

Image via: Pinterest

I personally love this next one. It would be so great to have individual clipboard inspiration boards for each of my clients! I just need the space!!

This one is for all my less modern ladies. What do you think of this oversized vintage frame to create an inspiration board? I think it's FAB! 

Image via: bellemaison23.com

Last, but not least, I had to share this funky monkey! Yay or nay? Old bed spring frame as an inspiration board. I am leaning toward yay... what do you think?

I hope you have found this post inspiring and maybe you will go out and start creating your own inspiration board! If so, or you already have one, feel free to share it on my Facebook Wall, I would love to see how you all organize your inspiration!!

Happy pinning!

xo}L