Cottage Garden 2

Findings from Atlanta!

2012-01-24T18:33:00.000-08:00

Well back from Atlanta and brought home so many wonderful finds... Loved this gals booth and went back 3 times to keep buying more... Everything is done with vintage pieces... and her prices are amazing!
Here is her rosette necklace made with vintage fabrics and embellished with a little brooche or buttons....

These sweet necklaces have tiny keys or some little bauble on them....

Loved these watch cases with vintage paper and little tiny buttons inside... hanging from a suede ribbon....

Sweet little bracelets too....

Necklaces with lots of findings on them.....

And! we got in these burlap boards that were just screaming to have all our special one of a kind jewelry hanging from them.....

Meilan and I just had to try on our new Tulip tunics that just arrived.... we love Tulip!!!!!!!

Hope to see you all soon! The shops are looking so amazing.... #1 just got in 61 boxes today so soon the rooms will be brimming over with so many wonderful ideas for decorating....

What's New!

2012-01-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas is over and the new year is off and running.... wow its like the last few months went by like a blur.... and now we are busily cleaning up the leftover Christmas and sprucing up for Spring.... #1 shop is just starting to look like Spring is busting out all over and #2 shop is anxiously waiting for all the spring apparel to arrive..... yea soon!

We just love burlap and just had to create something with it inside #2 shop.... so it became a backdrop curtain for our wonderful Peacock Park paper french lanterns..... smack dab right in the middle of the room....

You all remember Minnie who use to work at #2 shop.... well she is so talented in many ways... including being a wonderful seamstress... she has created these amazing bags.... and they are now at the shop... pictures just don't do them justice... they are each a one of a kind bag and just as gorgeous on the inside... come on by and take a look.... and I know you will not be able to resist taking one home... they are big and roomy and you can use them for just about anything you can think of... down to what a great bag to go to market with you will be the envy of everyone at Sprouts!

We also just got in from Oka B shoes their ballet flats shoes... they are so adorable beyond words...

Well lots of new things arriving at both shops and lots of fun things in store for all this year....

SEE YOU SOON AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The Perfect Jeans!

2011-12-27T19:12:00.000-08:00

You know how we are always looking for those perfect jeans.... the ones that make our bottom look good and gives us the long leg look... well! we have them at the Cottage GardenII... they are made by Jag Jeans and are just absolutely perfect.... everyone who has tired them on has had the same expression on their face of oh my they make me look so good and they are so comfortable..... we just got another shipment in so hurry in for your pair before they are gone again and they do go quick....

Monica was just feeling so sassy in the pair she tried on so just had to show you all..... and she will be wearing them at the shop tomorrow.... and so will I... yes had to have them....

There is so zipper or buttons. Just pull them and oh so flattering!!!!!!!! They come in regular and petite length... and in indigo and black.....
Can't wait to see your face when you try them on.... :) yes it will make you smile!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-24T16:17:00.001-08:00

From the Cottage Garden family to yours we want to wish you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS!

XO Carol, Meilan, Heather, Connie and Monica.....

Our after Christmas sale starts Monday morning 10am..... 50% off all Christmas decorations, 25% off full size trees and garlands..... See you bright and early!

Shopping Time!

2011-12-20T18:26:00.000-08:00

Can you believe there is just a few days left till Christmas.... time to hustle and get that shopping done girls! We still have plenty to choose from and we wrap it up so nice that all you have to do is put it under the tree...

Last Thursday night we stayed open a little later waiting for a customer to come in and shop after she got off work because she didn't want to come on Friday or Saturday night and have to fight the Glitters' night crowds.... This was a fortunate thing because right after she came in came June, Kay and Cathy.... June and Kay came from San Diego to visit Cathy and Cottage Garden was there first stop of their 3 day shopping spree.... sooooo they shopped and shopped and then came back the next day and shopped and ate their way through our sweet little Catlin Court shops, when I saw them later in the evening the back of their car was filled with so many treasures.....

THANKS GIRLS FOR SHOPPING ALL THE WONDERFUL SHOPS IN CATLIN COURT AND HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN IN THE SPRING!

They even got some far out Christmas tree hats at the park in one of the booths on Friday night.....

New Bling!

2011-12-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

We just got a new designer Liza Kim into #2 shop.... it is so over the top bling!.. It will put a sparkle into any girls eyes..... and it is so reasonably priced!!!!!! Here are a few of the pieces that we got in today..... Meilan and I had fun trying them on....

Any of these pieces will be a great accessory for any Christmas outfit.... or the finishing touch on your New Years Eve party dress.... Oh my!!!! See you Soon!

Take A Look!

2011-11-20T17:55:00.001-08:00

We got in these new clothes from a designer in Jerome, and one of our junkies, Jennifer stopped by to check it out so of course we had to snap her picture in front of our new sign... I will post the new clothes soon, even though we have sold quite a few pieces of it the day it arrived....

Ta da! our new sign on the side of #2 shop.... doesn't it look amazing.... Meilan ( our most talented gal) painted the sign..... love it!!!!!

And while I was finding time to snap pics, of course had to take a few more photos of our ornaments....

Wow can you believe it Christmas is just about 1 month away.... where o where does the time go....

New At #2 Shop and Fashion Show

2011-11-13T16:42:00.000-08:00

On Saturday it was our area wide Christmas Open House in downtown Glendale and Catlin Court and the weather was beautiful..... We also did Women's Story Boutique in a home in North Central Phoenix.... along with a fashion show with the clothing from #2 shop.....
Our Christmas ornaments and little trees looked so great displayed in the home. The girls had quite a good turnout and alot of our items got sold. YEA! thanks for loving all the Cottage Garden stuff.....

Here are some of the members of A Woman's Story who participated in our fashion show..... and double YEA! our clothes were such a hit.... most of the models bought their outfits and we also sold alot of clothes from their showing off the clothes so well!!!!

And there is Meilan in the middle of all the girls.... making them laugh!!!

Kathleen looked so great in our Just Jill skirt and cutloose jacket.....

Miss Cindy in our new Jag jeans that are so flattering and have no zippers or buttons, you just pull them on.... has a great waist band that is so comfortable... I personally will be throwing out all my old jeans and just be wearing these from now on.... We are also out of them but a new shipment will be in at the end of the month.... I'm telling you girls you are going to love them!
We will be getting sizes 2-16.

This is Kathleen too in a comfy usa cap sleeve top and jacket.... she said she might just wear it to bed it's so comfortable.... she looked amazing in it....

Theres Monica one of the Cottage Garden girls who was in the fashion show with an APU silk tunic on....

We have so many amazing clothes in right now..... and they all have such wonderful detail... like this little bow on the pant....

Or ruffles and sequins at the bottom... so cute we call these Cha Cha pants....

Meilan put together so many gorgeous outfits... we've gotten in Cut Loose, Kleen, Comfy USA, Two Wishes, Pretty Angel to name a few of our vendors.... and they are being put together to create such great outfits.....

We have a great selection of our long sleeved lace tops to go under practically anything....and our ribbed knit long sleeved tops are back in but they are going fast so come in and grab some of the great colors we have in stock.....

Long this 3 button knitted shawl/scarf... Depending on where you button it, it looks different....

And love love love this sweater tunic with a removeable faux fur collar.... over the baik baik pants such a cute outfit. It also comes in dark blue and is great over jeans.

We have some adorable jackets in and the weight is great for our Phoenix winters..... not to heavy... and our hats have arrived.... so cute!

And adorable scarves.

This floral brocade from Cut Loose is just plai luscious....

And our bold strip collection from Cut Loose is so wonderful.... wait till you try it on it is so nice feeling on the skin..... we really strive to bring you wonderful clothes that are stylish yet very comfortable......

Hope to see you soon, Meilan and I are here to help you find the perfect outfits.....

Happenings This Weekend!

2011-11-09T19:00:00.001-08:00

This Saturday we are participating in the Woman Story Shopping Boutique... this is a great charity to help women and soooooo if you are in the area please stop by and get started on your holiday shopping......

In addition to this we will also be having our area wide Christmas Open House in downtown Glendale and Catlin Court on Saturday from 10am - 6pm.... the shops are stocked full and ready for helping with your holiday shopping too! See you then!!!!!!!

Christmas Open House!

2011-11-06T18:07:00.001-08:00

The weather outside was frightfull but inside was so delightful...... Thanks to all who braved the wind to come to our Christmas Open House!!!!! I knew that a little wind couldn't stop everyone from coming, so we put the food and wine in the kitchen instead of outside and the rest of the evening was wonderful.... the gals had fun and everyone loved the Christmas decorations..... yea all our hard work was so worth it when we saw your faces as you walked into the shops.....

We had tables ready for all the gals to sit and enjoy a glass of wine and munchies..... but it was just to chilly and breezy to sit outside... imagine that in PHOENIX! Usually it is toooooo hot.... but I guess winter has arrived.... did anyone see where Fall went? It went from hot to chilly! brrrrr......snapped a few pics of the gals who came Friday and some more of our Christmas vignettes.....

Everyone loved the cupcake tree at #1 shop.....

Again thank you for coming..... there will be an a Christmas Open House this coming Saturday November 12th in all of the downtown Glendale and Catlin Court.... Hope to see you then!

We will also still be doing our raffle for a $100.00 gift certificate to the Cottage Garden to benefit the 3 day Breast Cancer walk that Linda from Papa Ed's is participating in.... so stop buy and buy some raffle tickets if you can....

Sneak Peek before Christmas Open House!

2011-10-29T19:55:00.000-07:00

We are so busy getting ready for Christmas Open House that we haven't even taken a breathe for the last week and a half.... the living room was cleared and is being transformed into a Christmas wonderland..... Christmas Open House is next Friday, November 4th from 5pm - 9pm.... there will be wine and lots of food because we know how we can work up an appetite shopping! The shops will be full of sparkle and glitter.... and at #2 shop there will be a Holiday clothing trunk show....

Sooooo! here is a sneak peek ( a very small one) to show you what you will see next Friday!

The rooms were cleared of everything!!!!!

Monica busily fluffing up the trees......

On the evening of our open house we will be holding a raffle for a $100.00 gift certificate to the Cottage Garden to benefit Breast Cancer.... Linda from Papa Ed's Ice Cream Parlor will be walking in her 4th 3 day walk.... Soooo to help her raise donations we will be holding our raffle, tickets will be $1.00 each... so come have fun, start your Christmas shopping and help a worthy cause....

See you all next Friday!!!

Bye Bye Halloween and Fall

2011-10-23T17:59:00.000-07:00

The Cottage Garden elves are busily getting Christmas set up for our big November 4th open house..... sooooooo! that means that Halloween and Fall is on sale to make room for all the sparklys of Christmas....
Hurry in for all that last minute decorating you need to do before Halloween and Thanksgiving... its going to be gone by the weekend.....

Fall Fashion Show!

2011-10-17T20:42:00.000-07:00

Wow our very first Cottage Garden Fashion Show was a rousing success last Saturday night.... All our seats were taken that we set up in the front lawn.... gals had their glass of wine and plate of nibbles and waited for the show to begin.....
All the photos were taken courtesy of Ken Baker of Baker Custom Photos..... thanks Ken!

Even the arbors on the sidewalk leading up to the shop were adorned with little chandliers.... the setting in the front of the shop was so alluring.... You can just about notice the burlap curtains on the porch in the corner of the picture... Meilan was stapling her little heart out hanging them up this past week... but it made the front porch look like another room of the shop..!

Our first model was Monica.... wearing our new ironhorse jeans and Chalets Allison vest.... if you haven't tried on a chalet top or bottom yet you don't know what you are missing.... they feel so good on.

Lu Anne is wearing a Chalet ruffle jacket and the Tulip scooter pants.... we can't keep these pants in... not only are they so cute they are sooooo comfortable.

Dayna is wearing a Tulip dress and jacket.... the detail in this clothing line is incredible...

Valerie is one of our fabulous cottage garden junkies... she is wearing a Chalet tunic dress and cutloose grey pants.... comfortable again.... and comfort is the name of the game....

Merry is wearing a cute top from Cecico and one of our favorite new clothing lines is Baik Baik.... the pants are ultra comfy with a yoga top and the fabric is a wonderful satin blend.... comfortable and cute....

Jennifer is so stylist in a grey vest with a chalet tunic, long sleeved lace top and by the way the lace tops look great under everything to give it that dressed up look.... and she is also wearing satin pants.....

Jackie is just so hot looking in her cut loose rust tunic and she has on our Comfy USA pants and vest.... the two big buttons on the side just make these pants so adorable...

Linda is wearing a woven vest from Kleen and the satin pants.... we love these satin pants I'm telling you, they look great with everything...... she also is wearing a wonderful floral scarf to complete her outfit.... she is ready for a night out on the town.

Then there is Morgan.... the sweet petite daugther of our own cottage garden girl Monica.... she is wearing an adorable dress from Bluebird.... and with leggings and boots it is so cute!

Loree is wearing another new line we now have in the shop APU.. This eggplant colored tunic dress looks so sweet on her with her leggings and booties..... she lusted over the long necklace from one of our local artists she is wearing... wanted it for Christmas but decided she couldn't wait so it went home with her.....

This is Eileen.... Miss Personality.... this gal has such spunk that we put her in our Lulumari top and purple baik baik pants..... and topped it off with a crocheted purple scarf....

Po also is wearing baik baik pants and a lulumari top... but she decided that the black hat just totally completed the outfit and she was so right.... she is ready for a day of lunch out and just go and have fun with her gal pals....

And then there was me.... I love love love our new company from California called Wings of Lace.... Lexa combined vintage crocheted doilies, tablecloths and put it with a velvet piano scarf.... when you have it on you just want to twirl and twirl and twirl.... I have a long sleeved ribbed top under the dress......

After the show we mingled with the guests..... and drank more wine!!!! Linda from Papa Ed's ice cream brought over her wonderful raspberry sorbet balls and we again poured wine over it... Have you ever tried it, YUMMY~

All our customers/models for a group photo.... oops wheres Loree! She ran in the shop to go shop so we had to get another photo....

There she is! on the end.....

The front of the shop looked so pretty as the sun was setting.......

Thank you to all the girls who so graciously consented to be our models.... we had so much fun working with them and outfiting them in all our newest fall fashions..... they were such great sports..... and from all indications they had a blast too!!!

And a GREAT BIG THANKS TO MEILAN...... she worked sooooooo hard the last couple of weeks putting outfits and accessories together for all the girls to wear..... she MC'd the event and described all the details of each of the outfits...... stop in any time and she can help you put together your fall wardrobe......

We will be planning another fashion show for a charity event to be held in central Phoenix on November 12th.... more details to follow just in case you would like to attend.....

Front Porch Festival!

2011-10-09T19:52:00.001-07:00

Next Sturday is the first event to kick off the season... Our annual Front Porch Festival will be held in Catlin Court from 10am - 4 pm....All the shops will be decked out for Fall and hosting some special events like make and take projects or entertainment on the front porches. The Cottage Garden will again be having Ian playing bluegrass music on his banjo....he has become quite the favorite to come listen to... so come onto the porch and do some toe tapping with Ian.... #1 shop is still all festive with Fall and Halloween inside and out.... so come do your shopping for all your decor needs.....

Then at #2 shop we will be having a special event after the Front Porch festivities... Our Fall trunk show in September was such a success and everyone had such a good time, we decided to host another one on Saturday evening starting at 5:00pm.... we will be having a fashion show starting at 5:30pm. so come early have a glass of wine and some munchies and then grab a seat in the front lawn and watch our fashion show..... 12 of our customers have consented to be in the show.... yea! Meilan has put together the most amazing outfits. Then afterwards shop all the latest fashions that have just arrived.....

It will be such a fun day and evening and we hope you all can make it..... and the weather should be absolutely wonderful....

We have these adorable metal pumpkin parts available at #1 shop for those who want cute pumpkins without all the mess.... one,two,three and its done!

SEE YOU ALL NEXT WEEKEND!!!!!!!!

So Its Fall!

2011-09-29T20:53:00.001-07:00

Well it is almost October 1st and we are still in the triple digit temperatures.... do we all feel like we belong in the asylum because we are going CRAZY!!!! from all this heat.... so tired of sweating and getting no relief... oh well at least its cool at 6am in the morning.....!!

Just thought you might enjoy a few more Fall and Halloween pics of #1 shop....
WE CAN PRETEND.....AND GET IN THE MINDSET THAT IT REALLY IS FALL.

I guess before we know it we will be able to wear sweaters and boots! One can only hope!

New Artist at CG#2

2011-09-26T21:09:00.001-07:00

Meet Marci she makes the most amazing bags and sweet fabric flowers.... her company is called Flipped Bird and she is now part of the cottage garden group of local artists.... her bags can be turned inside out so it like you have 2 bags in one and then clip one of her flowers on it to really give it a little pazzzzzz!!!! And isn't she as cute as her product!

Fall Trunk Show!

2011-09-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

Our first Fall trunk show was absolutely fabulous..... thanks to all the girls who came out Friday night and shopped their little hearts out.... I again was so busy that I didn't have a chance to take photos of the girls shopping but I did manage to take some photos of the outfits that Meilan and I put together...

This wonderful little lightweight jacket was a big hit on Friday night... the detail on it is so wonderful.... it also comes in black.

Last Thursday our big Cut Loose order came in just in time for the show... this swing top looks great over the scooter pants... but then again what doesn't look good with the ever popular scooter pants.

Valerie is such a good sport when we ask her if we can snap pics of her trying on the new clothes.

She fits right in with our new dressing room!

Meilan snapped me with our new Comfy USA tunic top.... I had on the scooter pants but then changed into lace edged leggings that looked really cute. This tunic was also very popular on Friday night....

Brenda couldn't make it Friday night so she came in in the afternoon.... she could be a model and she let us take her pics of the clothes she was trying on..... she has that kind of figure that EVERYTHING looks good on her.... she had fun and ended up with a fabulous start to her fall wardrobe....

We added a new dressing room on at the shop.... It is so frilly and romantic looking you just don't want to leave it.... Ashley one of our local artists dropped by with some of her new creations and vintage fabric clip bows.... they look so great clipped on the curtains of the new dressing room.

Again thank you all for coming out for our fall trunk show and for making it a great success....

Fall Clothing Trunk Show!

2011-09-09T21:16:00.000-07:00

Friday September 16th from 5pm - 9pm we are having a Fall clothing trunk show... We have the new clothes priced and ready for all you gals... So please come join us for wine and munchies and come try on some of our wonderful new clothes... we have some new clothing lines that I think you all will just LOVE!

We will also have all our spring and summer clothing on sale if you want to take advantage of this too.....

Country Maiden and Papa Ed's Ice Cream will also be open until 9pm too.... and of course shop #1 will be open if you want to get some Halloween and Fall decor....

HOPE YOU CAN JOIN US!!!!!!!!

Meilan along with the other shop girls can hardly wait for you to see what we having waiting for you!

Step into Autumn!

2011-09-05T18:16:00.000-07:00

Step up to the front porch of #1 shop and you instantly feel Fall in the air.... The wreath on the front door lets you know that it is time to decorate with all the hues of oranges and yellows and browns....

Filled a rolling wicker shopping basket with a fall wreath, pumpkin and flowers... it is sitting behind the awesome giant metal pumpkins from Roundtop Collection...

Wreaths on the windows and a large floral arrangement in a metal basket.

Even decorated a metal chandlier with a garland of sunflowers.... and fall leaves in the green tree in the corner of the porch.

Pumpkins and fall foliage is everywhere on the porch.

An old wash bucket filled with bittersweet and red geraniums. The geraniums were in there and just added the bitttersweet to give it a fall look... so easy.

Just inside the front door another giant pumpkin with pussywillows propped behind it.... and bittersweet hanging from the top...

Mark your calendars girls for September 16th.... we will be bringing out all the new fall clothing with a big bash trunk show. Wine and muchies will be served from 5pm - 9pm... Indulge a little then have fun picking out some new clothes.... We have some great new clothing lines that we know you are going to just fall in love with.... See you soon! An email blast will be going out this week......

Catlin Cash Play Days!

2011-08-29T20:15:00.000-07:00

Oh my what fun the girls had this past weekend playing with all the play money that they gathered up from shopping all summer long. There was so many happy faces and giggling going on and chit chatting among them all if they weren't friends before they are now....

Again so many gals showed up in outfits that they bought at #2 shop.... and they all sure look great!
Gail had a great floral top on with black leggings.....

This striped tunic on Tammy has been so popular.... Monica had it on in a previous blog post... the big black bow on the back is what really sells this top and the pockets....

Morgan came straight from cheer practice cuz she had her eye on a lace top that was her size.... she wanted to grab it before it was gone....

Decisions decisions what to choose.... Michelle was having the hardest time.... she ended up with both and then some....

Evie was a happy girl with her purchases....

These gals traveled all the way from Mesa... oh yes they made the trip worthwhile....

This is one of our new tops... it is so silky and looks so 1930's....

Dawn had her eye on a Laura Van box and lo and behold it was still there... so she snapped it up with her play money..... check Dawn's blog out bohemianvalhalla.blogspot.com she has posted more pictures of our weekend....

Valerie bought this cute floral top with the ever popular crochet.....

And this top too.... it reminds me of my grandfather's hanky.... it is so light and airy feeling... great for these really miserably hot days.....

Jennifer bought this stripe top from our Comfy USA line... it is so comfy (no pun intended) that you won't want to take it off....

THANKS TO ALL FOR MAKING THIS WEEKEND SUCH A GREAT SUCCESS! AND FOR ALL THE SUPPORT YOU GIVE ME..... I WOULDN'T BE HERE IF IT WEREN'T FOR EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!

Our next event will be September 16th from 5pm - 9pm.... we will be having a trunk show of all our new Fall clothing and jewelry ( our local artists are busy creating so we will have new one of a kind pieces) .... and of course wine and munchies will be served.... so mark your calendars.... and by the way- we will be adding a 3rd dressing room on so there won't be too much waiting to try on all the new clothes..... YIPPEEE! See you soon.

Halloween Girly Style!

2011-08-21T20:28:00.001-07:00

The shop girls Monica and Meilan had fun decorating a corner of shop #2 for Halloween.... and of course jewelry had to be incorporated into it....

A glittery gnarled tree with flower clips on it....

Black spider web doilies and runners... embellished with jewlery....and french fabric flowers...

Great idea Monica... she stuck red roses in the skulls eye sockets to give it a day of the dead look..... cool!

Above your head as you come in the front door is hanging halloween themed boxer shorts and spider web runners.... it gave the entrance such an erie feel....

A mercury glass pumpkin nestled in between jewelry and our skull clips....

A glittery candelabra embellished with fabric flowers and jewelry......

Here's the brains behind the decorating.... Monica wearing one of our new stripped tunics... this one is so cute with a big black bow across the back..... and leggings with lace across the bottom....

See you all soon!

BOO! EEK!

2011-08-17T18:30:00.001-07:00

It might be hot and humid outside but inside shop #1 Fall and Halloween has arrived! Our newest shop girl Monica has been a hidden treasure... she has decorated the Halloween room and it looks absolutely wonderful... at every turn there is a different vignette of ghouls, skulls or just down right cute..... just walk in just past the black spider curtain in the doorway and see all the great ideas for decorating your home.....

The orange and black tinsel adds that sparkly finishing touch.....

The skeleton hugging the pumpkins so cool!

So cute to hang on your front door!

The skinny leg kids are back with some new friends!

New pilgrim and Indian pokes from our favorite metal company Roundtop!

New pumpkins and crows!

Lots more pictures to follow! Tomorrow we start decorating #2 shop.... wait till you see the ideas flowing from there!.......

Just one more week till its time to play with your Catlin Cash.... Don't forget we will be having the play days - August 26th and 27th....

LA Trip and More!

2011-08-14T16:53:00.000-07:00

The day before we left for our Los Angeles Apparel Show trip we had a visitor from Texas.. This is Debbie that makes our wonderful French fabric flowers that we now have in the shop... She was staying at a resort in Scottsdale for the weekend for a little R & R before heading back to Texas and getting ready for the Fall and Winter season.... It was such a delight to have her see the shop and where her flowers are.....

Then Sunday morning bright and early we were off to L. A. for some ordering and buying for the #2 shop.... We had another successful trip and have some wonderful Fall clothing coming in..... Stay tuned and in a future blog I will tell you all about the trunk show we are going to have to show all of you the Fall clothing lines......

This is where we spent 4 days.... shopping our little hearts out..... tough job but someone has to do it! So armed with rolling suitcases and our tennies on Heather and I dug in and starting shopping....

We ate lunch at this wonderful little bistro right across from the Mart, the architecture was absolutely wonderful.... so of course had to snap a few pics.

This building was right across the street from our hotel... the fire escape was even so architecturely beautiful....

We stayed at the Sheraton and it was right in the heart of downtown.....

Beautiful succulent arrangement in the lobby of the hotel...

One of my reps, Marilyn moved out of the mart and has her showroom on this quaint little street that is so urban LA.....

Took a break from ordering Fall and she showed us the Fenini spring line... light and whispy fabrics. We will see these in the shop come next February.... CAN'T WAIT!

The entrance into her showroom store.... and she lives upstairs.. the perfect setup....

Marilyn in the polkadot and her assistance Debbie saying goodbye to us... we spent a delightful afternoon with them....

Lots of fun clothes arrving soon.... Mark your calendars for September 16th, Friday Night 5pm- 9pm for our fall trunk show.... Be the first to purchase your fall clothing..... and of course wine and munchies will be served.... cuz we know how to throw a party at the Cottage Garden.....

Oh what you can do!

2011-08-03T19:15:00.000-07:00

We just got in our order from Peacock Park... and Meilan just waved her magic wand and decorated #2 shop with paper lanterns, flowers and ribbon....

Clustering the paper lanterns (4 sizes) around the fan light is just magical....

There are also strings of tiny paper lanterns in all these frenchy patterns....

Above the mantel she curled the paper ribbon and has it draping down and sideways then mingled the paper flowers in between and then set it off with the glittered crown ornaments....

Just too beautiful... gals walking in and seeing it just stand there and say ohhhhhhhhhh!

The vignettes look so much better in person so if you get a chance stop on by and check it out....

The Sisters Came For A Visit!

2011-08-02T20:07:00.000-07:00

One of our Cottage Garden junkies came to visit the shop with her sisters from out of town....
Amy was in a about a month ago and told me the "sisters" were coming to visit and were so excited to be able to come to the shop....

Amy with a cut loose dress on with her one sister Cheryl....
Amy, Robin (the big cheese) cuz she is the oldest and Cheryl....

We had so much fun with the girls and I know they had fun...and by their big smiles and all the bags their shopping adventure was a rousing success.... thanks girls it was fun..... can't wait for your next visit..... Remember French Market and Sidewalk Cafe is 1st Saturday in March.... Hope you can make it....

Walk through the Garden!

2011-07-24T17:37:00.001-07:00

Just got in at #1 shop some simply adorable topiarys and beautiful flowers...
So come take a walk with me inside the shop, cuz everything outside that is real is pretty much fried from the hot summer temperatures....

So little and cute as far as plants go!

A double topiary nestled on a shelf...

Love this jar with a succulent nestled in sand and sea shells.... not real so it will never die....

This wire cage is flat so it can hang on the wall... What you put in it limitless.... plants, birds, nests on and on and on....

Another topiary.... had so much fun vignetting them around the shop..... they tucked in everywhere! And the red geraniums look so real.... and we all know what the real ones look like in our outside gardens.....

This rose in a green jar, even feels real.... it looks like water in the bottom of the jar...

Orange mini ranoculus nestled in a drawer....

And these succulents all propped in a birdbath... nope they aren't real either....

Lavendar plants....

Hope you enjoyed a little flower power from the cottage garden......

Customer Day!

2011-07-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

Wow girls, thank you so much for making my Customer Appreciation Day a rousing success....
so many of you braved the heat and shopped your little hearts out....

Po is one of the newest cottage garden junkies and of course showed up in an outfit she purchased from us....

Dawn all decked out with her beautiful purse that she made..... she is quite talented... and I own two of her beautiful creations.....

Ellen and Dawn enjoying a little break from shopping in the kitchen full of refreshments....

Another cottage garden outfit..... This grey top sold out of fast...

My customers are really becoming hams with me snapping pictures of them in our outfits... Lynn looked so nice and cool in one of our cotton gauze tops...

Didn't get a chance to take too many pictures because we were so busy from the minute we open to well after 5pm.... THANK YOU GIRLS FOR COMING! It was lots of fun seeing you all....

Great Idea!

2011-07-13T20:40:00.001-07:00

The #1 shop got a face lift recently..... It is so fresh and clean looking.... It was painted a creamy yellow and a grassy green for the trim.... it looks so cottagy even more.....

The front porch is just so inviting.... well not right now with this hot summer air but once fall hits again I am sure it will be nice to sit and relax on...

We just got in this wonderful mercury glass jars with a lid..... love it!

This sweet bird clouche atop a white pedestal stand.... too sweet!

This whire cage clouche is just too fun to decorate with....

Found these shabby chic drawers and got my decorating gears going what to do with them.... they make the greatest little shelves to prop on a small table or put sawteeth on the back and hang on the wall.....

Absolutely LOVE this one... part of the drawer is missing and it gives so much character to the vignette I created... the bottom of the drawer was slatted too cool!

Don't forget Customer Day is coming up July 16th... 10am - 5pm.. See you then!

Clothes from #2 shop!

2011-07-11T19:28:00.000-07:00

Had some of our great customers in last weekend and they were gracious enough to let me snap some pics.... Tammy was having fun trying on some of new clothes..... This is one of the outfits she took home.... she looked great in everything she tried on....

Delores popped in with a cottage garden outfit... she looked marvelous...

Miss Amy came a shopping in our tulip clothes which she had purchased on an earlier buying trip.... so great on her.

Then Donna tried on a new outfit from Humming... She bought flip flops, necklace and purse to match... too cute...

Hope to see you all at our Customer Appreciation day this Saturday July 16....

Thanks to All!

2011-07-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Its Customer Appreciation Day again! When: Saturday, July 16, 10am - 5pm.... Where Cottage Garden I and II, 7142 and 7162 N. 58th Ave.....

Dip into the cookie jar for all sorts of discounts on anything you buy.... And we know how exhausting shopping is so stop in the kitchen at #2 shop for some light refreshments....

I appreciate each and every cottage garden junkie... this is just a small thank you for all who have shopped with me through thick and thin..... See you next Saturday!!

Catlin Cash will not be given out this day!

New From Kelli Rae Roberts

2011-07-05T21:20:00.000-07:00

Kellie Rae Roberts area at shop #1 just keeps expanding and expanding as she keeps creating new and exciting ideas for her collection..... She has new angels, memo boards and magnets....

The magnets come in these great little tins....

Fun magnetic memo boards.

Magnetic memo boards shaped like her angels with a cute butterfly magnet that comes with it...

Kelli Rae is just amazing....

Customer Appreciation Day is coming up July 16th, Saturday, 10am - 5pm..... The cookie jar will be filled with all kinds of discounts.... an email will be going out within the next few days.... so stay tuned....

Highlights from Dallas!

2011-06-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a hectic few weeks.... first off to Los Angeles to the apparel show and shopping in the fashion district, home for a few days then off to Dallas to order spring home and garden for #1 shop..... coming in after Christmas!

Not only do we order like crazy and run marathons around the showrooms but we also get little surprises along the way.... We were in this awesome showroom called Portico in the World Trade Center when I noticed a section that had the Shannon Martin line that we carry at the #1 shop.... I always thought the designer of this line has a wonderful sense of humor and wondered what does she look like... Is she on one of her cards and I don't even know it.... A rep walked into the area and asked if we would like to meet the designer... SOOOOO! we met Shannon Martin in the flesh.... She was a hoot, and it was so great to meet her. She thought I looked familiar and I thought she looked familiar and one day maybe we will figure out where we know each other from.... we will be getting in some of her new product... soon!

And then we were in the cash and carry building waiting in line for lunch, when this vendor pulled Heather into her booth and wanted to see what she would look like with short hair.... the transformation was just amazing.... what do you all think should Miss Heather cut her hair.... the picture doesn't do her justice at how amazing she looked with shoulder length hair..

On to business. Our first stop on our first day was Peacock Park Designs.... Couldn't help myself just had to go in and see her showroom.... It just absolutely gave me goosebumps it was so beautiful.... and yes I really did some damage there, can't wait to get it and transform Cottage Garden into a little frenchy.....

The entrance into her showroom....

Everything was so magical how could anyone resist ordering.... Got to meet the creator of all this too... as she was buzzing around the showroom....

She had french paper lanterns, flowers, wreaths,and ribbon.... ordered it all... and it will probably be at #2 shop in between all the jewelry and clothing....

She had the big clips that we use to clip the dressing room curtain shut.... do you know how many times I could of sold that one lonely clip... well now there will be plenty for sale...

Love love love this birdcage and one day it will be mine, just not right now....

Another beautiful showroom had this brown chaise and I lusted for it but alas it was just a prop.... but I did order the pillows, they have sweet little birds on them..

Cool ideas at every turn. A chandlier inside a rolled up metal fencing... the walls were almost the same color as the front bedroom at shop #1...

Sweet clouches on a pedestal, yep I orderded them.... can't wait...

Ohh La La a simple dress form transformed with tulling and musical paper....

Some of the new product is coming soon and some we have to wait till after Christmas....

Our Customer Appreciation Day is coming up on July 16, Saturday from 10am -5pm... Dip into the cookie jar for a discount on anything in the shops... just a small thank you for all who have shopped with me, I really appreciate you all.

Oh So Beautiful!!!

2011-06-21T20:27:00.003-07:00

We just got in this most amazing jewelry.... Did the photos at home and my girl kitties had to check it out.... Miss Mia figuring out what pair of earrings to get with her fur coat... :)

The jewelry is all sterling silver plated and filled with the most sparkly swaroski crystals... the designer Mariana also uses vintage pieces....

The sparklyness of all the stones are just absolutely beautiful!!!!!

I love this necklaces... she called them her guardian angel necklaces... there is an angel on the back of each one....

The detail is so wonderful....

And of course the bird theme is in this collection too!!!!

Beautiful rings!

And more rings..... thats Sophie's nose checking them out....

Love love love the bracelets..... had to keep one for myself.... and again you just can't imagine the sparklyness of the stones.....

Really sweet earrings.....

Its all just too beautiful.....

2011-06-21T20:27:00.001-07:00

New from L A Buying Trip!

2011-06-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

Had to show you a few of our finds in L.A.! One of my favs is this lacey shirt... goes great over a skirt or pants, leave it long and flowy or belt it up.... and great for the summer.....

Another favorite this wonderful floral top with the most whispery fabric.... love the colors....

Just too darn cute...... a big butterfly is wonderfully stitched on the front.... I put a lace shirt under it but it can be worn as a tank top too!!!!

Girls the shop is full of so many new clothes plan on playing for a few hours..... tooo toooo much!!!!!

Its hot ouside but nice and cool in the shops... come see us - Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm....

Back from L. A. apparel show!!!!

2011-06-16T19:41:00.001-07:00

Just had a whirlwind 3 1/2 days of ordering for fall and buying more clothes for the summer months... Meilan and I were like speed demons pricing all that I brought back in the suitcases and what got shipped beat me back on Wednesday.... I will blog about our great light flowy clothes over the weekend.....

Found a great new jewelry line at the Mart.... ordered a ton (literally) couldn't decide what not to get so just about got the whole line.... you are going to love it and great prices too!!!!

And now for a sneak peek of the fall clothing that will come sometime in September or October... These are from one of our favs Chalet.... I also ordered more lightweight dusters and jackets in our burnout which will come sometime in July... Along with a bunch of new burnout scarves.... the fabric is so soft you want to sleep in it.....

This is from our newest company Tulip... their new jacket for fall.... got it in two colors, cuteeeee!!! Ok.... enough of the fall teasers....

This is where we sank into bed after a day of exhausting shopping, and lugging back many bags full of clothes.....

There was an opening night party! It is very interesting to people watch in L.A. Calif.... and especially at the apparel show.....

The tables had the most beautiful hydrageas in little glass vases.... don't think the majority of people attending even noticed but us flower people did.....

Like I said very interesting people... Yes that was a guy!

Suitcases were stuffed as stuffed can be and we were ready to head on out.... back to good old Phoenix.....

Didn't order from this company but loved there display of clothes, hung from the ceiling with twine.... hummmmmmm do you think Cottage Garden could pull it off. Stay tuned!!!!!

Didn't get alot of pics cuz was too busy shopping and ordering..... will post more pics of the new clothes soon!!!!! In the meantime come on in and take a gander......

Check It Out!

2011-06-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

The other day decided while doing errrands to stop at one of my favorite haunts for looking for display pieces.... Not Too Shabby over on Cave Creek Road... Don't get out there very often but when I do I always find something to get my creative juices going..... Tucked in a corner upstairs was this bedspring... and then WOW my mind starting doing cartwheels as to how can I use this.... and then the light bulb went off and a new way of hanging clothes was born.... you see Meilan and I have been trying to figure out how to get more clothes in the shop.... we have been doing so well with all our clothing lines that we want to provide more selections for all our gals out there.....

Meilan and her boyfriend Ted were busily getting the bedspring hung in the window of the front bedroom...

Meilan smiling with the way it looks.... putting on the finishing touches....

And yea it turned out just as I envisioned it...... the clothes hang up there just perfect!

And of course that led to an overall revamp of the front and middle bedrooms, where the majority of our clothes our. Just wait till you see the rooms look so open and airy!!!!!

And then Meilan was on a roll.... she started hanging hooks all over the walls in the middle bedroom.... and more room for clothes....

This little corner in the room is so adorable with all our Two's floral goodies, including the floral piggy banks.....tooo sweet!!!! Love the parasol hanging above it...

This Valerie one of our great Cottage Garden junkie girl... she was a great sport and let us photo op her with some of our new clothes... I think she ended up buying everything she tried on.... She has our Scooter pants on in Kahki, I've posted them in the grey color too. We are waiting for the black to come back in... and we also ordered them in white.... they are so comfortable and I am speaking from personal experience....

Val looks so summery in our rooshed skirt and a cut loose top......

Our hours for the summer right now are: Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm......

I AM OFF TO AN APPAREL SHOW IN LOS ANGELES IN A FEW DAYS AND WILL BE BRINGING EMPTY SUITCASES TO BRING BACK LOTS OF CLOTHING AND JEWELERY FOR #2 SHOP... SEE YOU SOON!

Laura Van Frames!

2011-06-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

The shop girls revamped the back vintage room and nestled the laura van frames back there.... I love the way they look all grouped with a sweet tulip lamp and potted lavendar topiaries.... love love love the look of the back room.... have found the gals coming in just hanging out there and enjoying!

Yard Sale Time!

2011-05-31T21:14:00.001-07:00

Our annual yard sale is this weekend June 4th 10am -5pm... It will be in front of shop #2.... Come and see all the great deals to be had.... 50% to 75% off all kinds of good stuff..... there will also be some other shops participating in this so stop by the visitor center at 58th Ave and Glenn and pick up a list of shops that will also be having some great deals at their yard sale.... Grab a big bottle of water and head out for some great bargains!!!!!

Light and Flowy

2011-05-29T20:50:00.001-07:00

Summer is upon us and whats a better way to stay cool and still look oh so lovely than with an outfit from the #2 shop..... I have included a few photos of some of our latest arrivals.... and more is on the way.... We are expecting 2 new shipments this week of comfortable cool clothing to get through the summer....

Love this outfit from our new company Tulip!

And yes our lace shirts have arrived in 3/4 sleeve and the ever popular cap sleeve.. great to put under all the sleeveless tops to give them an even more flowy romantic look.....

And to finish off your outfit these over the shoulder glitzy purses... big enough to through a few things in like lipstick, credit cards and keys and off you go......

Girls' Night Out!

2011-05-22T17:37:00.000-07:00

Girls' Night Out was an absolute blast on Friday night!!!! There were people milling around outside, sitting at the tables we set up on the front lawn, and the shop was constantly packed with girls shopping their little hearts out..... Everyone had a great time and a few comments were we just don't want to leave because we are having so much fun...... YEA!!!!! I say, thanks to all that came.... we had so much fun seeing you all.....

The kitchen was packed with all the goodies for the munchies table.... and many bottles of wine ready for the raspberry and lemon sorbet balls that Papa Ed's Ice cream parlor brought down to the shop. Wine was poured over the sorbet and by all the comments very tasty indeed!

The shop before the crowd hit!!!!!

Our entertainment was the Come Back Buddy band.... I told you to wear your dancing shoes.... now do you understand why I said that? There was alot of dancing going on.... and guess what! I already booked them for next years Girls' Night Out.... Yippee!

The shop was constantly packed with shoppers.... thank you all....

And gals enjoying all the yummies..... and there were some guys that showed up to... but it was alright.....

YUM YUM YUM.......
No diet food here... Well I guess the fresh fruit would count.....

Maureen is a long time customer... Her hubby Doug came too and they could really dance....

Heather took a break from writing receipts for this photo op with her son Jason and girlfriend Cori.....

Meilan with her new hair do.... Very New York!

Linda from Papa Ed's Ice Cream Parlor of course in a Cottage Garden II outfit holding one of her lemon sorbet drinks..... Thank you Linda for bringing over all the sorbets! I think she counted that she made up 100 glasses of sorbet..... Wow!

And thank you to all that came and made our night so much fun and a great success.... I appreciate it from the bottom of my heart! THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Carol

And now it is time to take on the summer! But of course we will be open all summer for those times you just have to shop....

Getting Ready for Girls' Night Out!

2011-05-18T21:33:00.001-07:00

Made the Costco run today for all the munchies and wine for GIRLS' NIGHT OUT! ..... this Friday night 6pm - 9pm.... forget the diet and come indulge!!!!!!!

So come ready to have some fun!!!!!!! Nature is cooperating and the evening is sure to be absolutely perfect..... We will look so forward to seeing you all!!! We hope you are all excited because the shop girls sure are...... See you soon!!

New At #2 Shop

2011-05-15T13:31:00.001-07:00

We have a new jewelry artist at the shop.... her name is Diane and she makes amazing pieces....
This first one is molded circles on a leather cord with some interesting metal findings.....

The next few pieces are pictures of different women, this one with wings coming from her sides....

Another one with the picture of a very gentle women with a leopard at the bottom of her dress...

And another one that is so angelic!!!

We also got in a new clothing line called Tulip and their clothing is so stinking cute!!!!!!~

The details are so amazing..... The row of buttons going up the pant legs....

This is their top called Lily.... Rows of ruffles along the bottom.....

This is the cutest outfit ever!!!!!!

We just got this in the other day and have almost sold out! But..... I quickly called the company and more are on the way.... We will also be getting a couple more new tops so as soon as they come I will photo op them and post it.....

Cut Loose has also recently come and there are some cute pieces too.... This lavendar shirt is great as a blouse or open over a light summer dress....

And last but of course not least this adorable outfit from another of our popular companies.... This floral tank with a cami under it is just screaming great for the summer and the matching linen crop pants are so cute with three tiny button accents at the bottom.......

We have gotten in lots more but this is just a teaser, hope you all can make it in soon......

JUST A REMINDER: Girls Night Out! May 20th Friday night.....6pm - 9pm.....

Loads of fun so hope to see you then :) Carol

Girls' Night Out in Glendale!

2011-05-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

Girls Night Out is fast approaching.... So mark your calendars for Friday night May 20th from 6pm - 9pm for an evening of music, wine, and so many delectable delights for the tummy! The come back buddy band will be playing all the great oldies so put on your dancing shoes cuz you won't be able to stay still. Enjoy sorbet balls from Papa Ed's Ice Cream with wine poured over them, or if you aren't into the wine we will have sprite.... and lots of yummies. And then just shop shop shop at the stores on 58th Ave. The band will be playing under the gazebo at shop #2...

check out the buddy holly band at combackbuddy.com

See you then! Carol

Mother's Day Gift Ideas

2011-05-04T21:50:00.001-07:00

With Mothers Day only a few days away, stop by the Cottage Garden I and II to find all the last minute gifts you need for that special Mom.... We have so many pearl bracelets and necklaces and what mom doesn't like pearls.....

This sweet little sterling silver necklace is sure to please any one and especially mom....

There are great outfits that we can help you put together for that special mom!

Just got in these funky leggings for that really think out of the box mom.....

Sweet pill boxes and card holders again for that special mom.....

Great purses!

Wonderful perfume from Toyko Milk!

Colorful bracelets! ChaCha Cha.....

Magnabilites is a great gift idea! Just start with the base and add a magnet to match any blouse.....

These sweet purse mirrors a great tuck in gift for mom.....

We will be having a special day Saturday May 6th.... For the first 50 people to come shop we will give you a complimentary flower..... See you then!

Best Present of All!

2011-05-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

I was going to post some great Mother's Day Gift ideas today but instead a pleasant little surprise arrived yesterday.....

This is Caleb Michael Migray. He is the latest addition to my son Eric and his wife Lee Anne's little family..... Caleb decided he wanted to come and come fast... He was born in the bedroom at home. The paramedics arrived and he came 2 minutes later. Earlier in the day the hospital sent them home because they said it wasn't time yet. Within a half hour of leaving the hospital and getting home the baby came.

Mom and baby are fine and should be coming home tonight.... He weighed 7lbs. and 20 inches long......

This is one of his big sisters Mollee who just turned 6 years old in March....

And this is really big sister Emilee, she is really going to be a big help for Mom.....

He also has another big sister Ainslee who was too busy socializing last night so couldn't get a pic of her with new little brother.....

Welcome to the world little Caleb.... you are going to be so spoiled by all your cousins and big sisters....

New Purses!

2011-04-21T21:03:00.000-07:00

Just like carrying a bouquet of flowers. These adorable coin purses or has a strap so you can use as a wristlet is one big flower.......

This one is like a present with a bow.....

And this purse is so big and springy like with its big flower.....
All at shop #2 just in time for all you gals to hop on over for your Easter purse.....

A Day At the Desert Botanical Gardens!

2011-04-20T20:08:00.001-07:00

Monday daugther Angie, the kidos and grandma (moi) went to the Desert Botanical Gardens just off the Galvin Parkway...... thought we better get it in before the heat hits. Everything was blooming like crazy. Have not seen so many flowers on the cactus and the wildflower garden was just so beautiful.....

The kids were so anxious to go to the butterfly pavilion, so we made that our first stop.....
There were butterflies everywhere you turned and what a beautiful surroundings they had.... they will be there till Mother's Day. Then it gets just to darn hot for them.

Flowers everywhere... I was in flower heaven. I snapped so many pictures it was hard to chose which ones to put on the blog.....

These metal sculptures were positioned in between the flowers and cacti....

OHHHHHH SO TRUE!

Never knew these plants were called the chocolate flower...... learn something new everyday....

Another favorite of the grandkidos was the people and plants of the desert section... They had a ball going into the huts that had been constructed. And they ground mesquite tree pods with a smoothed out stick from a tree to make flower like the Indians did many moons ago......

The end of our journey through the gardens and the kidos had fun. And learned a few new facts about our beautiful desert along the way......

Highly recommend attending the gardens before it gets too hot. Right now is a perfect time with everything blooming.....

Fashion Show!

2011-04-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

What a thrill we experienced this past Friday night.... We were invited to participate in a Fashion show at the Wigwam Resort in Old Litchfield Park. It was quite a worldwind few days as we put together outfits for the models who we meet on Thursday night..... We had 13 outfit changes and boy did they have to change fast so there was no break in the action of walking down the 45 foot runway......... The lines started forming about 6pm and by 7pm all the seats were filled and the show was ready to start.... We went on at about 8:15pm..... Little old us The Cottage Garden made its debut in the fashion world in front of 100's of people.....

Even Mrs. Arizona attended and she stopped at our booth outside of the hall.

This Michael and his gals that did our models hair and makeup..... what a great job they did on the models.. they all looked fabulous... His salon is located in Goodyear and is called Sweet Salon Hair Design.... All I can say he is great!!!!!

I couldn't have done this without our great shop gal Meilan.... She spent 2 days putting the outfits together and had it all organized with the each outfit having all the right accessories..... And she fit the models to the perfect outfits....

Meilan and Michael backstage....

The girls getting ready....

Just a quick minute to snap a picture before they were off to the runway....

Some last minute primping by the salon gals... and then off they went....

The girls did a great job modeling and I think they had fun tooo.... I know we loved the experience and when all was said and done we had an absolute ball participating in this....

Miss Heather was manning the booth before the show started.....

We had such a great response from everyone we talked to that we had such wonderful clothing and they will be by the store to check us out..... YEA!!!!!!!!

Thanks to all the shop girls and especially Meilan for all the effort they put in the last few days to make this all go so well!!!!!! Couldn't have done it without you!

Can you Imagine!

2011-04-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

I met a gentlemen named Don the other day and he showed me the most amazing jewlery that he makes.. He hand paints on pieces of polished wood and makes them into rings, earrings, pendants, or bracelets.... They are all quilt patterns and the detail is so meticulous..... And oh yes did I forget to mention that he is 84 years young.... This man just truly astounded me.... the work that is involved in each piece is so awesome...... He and his wife winter in Phoenix and they are now on their way to their home in Minnesota....

If you happen to be in Glendale and get a chance to stop by, come see Don's workmanship on his jewlery......

We are planning a fun Girls Night Out for Friday May 20th.... So please stay tuned for more details......

The Clothes keep coming!

2011-04-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

Friday we got in more clothing... it is so so flowy, flowery and so feminine......

Pink is so in and we have gotten in some adorable clothing in the pink tones.....

This tank with lace along the bottom looks great peeking out from all the soft florals.....

Hot pink with the tiedye effect is really striking.....

Love this crisp white dress for summer....

Hats hats and more hats.... Great for our hot sunny days.... and again the florals are in the hats too.....

A Day at the Zoo!

2011-04-01T20:21:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday before the big heat up I spent the day at the zoo with daugther Angie and the six grandkidos (yes) you saw right six kids 8 years old and under..... but what a fun day..... Waiting for the zoo to open was the perfect time for a group photo. We have Trent, Trey, Trevin, Taryn and Tanner, and below in the stroller is Taelyn. Yes there names all begin with "T"....Just try calling them, I get so confused.... which isn't hard for me..... and tonguetied.

There were lots of moms and their kids in our group.....

Was busy counting heads once we got into the zoo so didn't get to many opportunities to take pics.... Haven't been to the zoo in years so it was great to see how it had changed. Boy did I need a nap when I got home......

ALL MY GARDENS!!!!!!

2011-03-29T20:31:00.001-07:00

Spring is here and its time for our gardens to put on a show...... The heat is coming and lets enjoy them for at least for a little while...... its good for the soul! Just open the back door to shop #1 and see what Sandra has done to really make it nicer to walk around outside..... it was such a mess from the winter hail storm and all the rain.... more needs to be done but the frostbitten plants and the mess of broken garden treasures are gone!

#2 shop is a profusion of purple flowers.... people walking down the street or coming into the shop have stopped to admire them.....

Meilan took time from inside the shop arranging clothes and accessories to spruce up the front of the shop's garden....

I did some gardening this past Sunday and I was telling a customer about it today... She said oh please blog it so here it is..... my front flower beds with new plants and of course yard art from the Cottage Garden.....

By my front door this sweet topiary and grape ivy.....

This fat little bird use to reside at the shop and now he followed me home.....

Love this crackle finish ceramic bunny who also came from the shop but there are more there....

I love decorating my garden with vintage items. This wheelbarrow has been in front of the house for years.....

Red geraniums are great for the garden north exposure.....

And I love to collect bird nests that have been abandoned and use in my garden....

An old tool box with plants atop it.

I also love St. Francis statuary...... he definitely belongs in the garden....

This is the beginning of a peace rose. I transplanted this bush last year and it is finally happy and produced a rose....

I love to mix garden statuary and yard art in between my plants.... just gives it that little extra pop!!!!!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail!!!!!

2011-03-20T20:35:00.001-07:00

Shop #1 at The Cottage Garden is filled with lots of chicks and bunnies to help with your spring time decorating for Easter.......

Chicks and more chicks!!!!

Our hydrangea bunnies are so cute!!!!

Bunny Pokes from our Roundtop Collection. Sure to make you smile!

Another hydrangea bunny, just look at that precious face.....

And of course we have a great selection of the skinny leg bunnies. There are some darling new ones to add to your collection.

And hydrangea lambs too!

The white porcelian bunnies are wonderful too...... So hop on over and pick out your favorite bunny or chick.....

New Clothing At #2 Shop

2011-03-10T19:15:00.000-08:00

Oh girls we just received more new clothing from another new apparel company...... This is such a romantic dress or can be worn as a top over skinny jeans...... Love love the color and it has a darling hemline.

This one went home with me..... probably wearing it tomorrow over a skirt.

And another clothing company new to #2 shop such great detailing in their clothing. Looks like linen but is 100% cotton.....

Love this ruffled skirt and we have it in black too......

This little skirt is tiered with toiling and can be worn under our tunics to add just a little more length......

This is just a comfy top but edged in lace..... such a great little touch!

And the hot new thing is putting lace under everything we just got in short sleeves and camis in all lace. TOOOOO CUTE!!!!!!

Of course we all know scarves are the must accesory and these little lightweight sparkly ones are a must.....

Just had to show you the new travel mugs and luggage tags we got in they are such a hoot!!!!!!

Joyful Nest!

2011-03-08T18:37:00.001-08:00

We all love Kelly Rae Roberts collage art and I don't want to take anything away from her but we have gotten in a new collage art collection called Joyful nest. It is so colorful and whimsical that I truly love this artist too. I love her attention to the detail of nature......

Spring is almost here!!!!!!! Lets all admire the wonders of nature.

Paris In Spring- Great Day!

2011-03-06T20:20:00.000-08:00

Our French Market and Sidewalk Cafe was on Saturday and it was a great day!!!!!!
We were preparing the front yard at #2 for the sidewalk cafe.

The porch was cleared and awaiting the arrival of the caterer, Linda of Tasteful Plate.

She was getting it all set up and it turned out beautiful, unfortunately I was so busy inside with customers that I didn't get a chance to take a photo of the finished table.

Kate the tarot card reader was busily setting up her little tent for her readings. Again she was busy all day.

Deb and Patty arrived with all the fun vintage stuff and fresh plants.

Terry of Winifred Street had all her beautiful collage art.

Inside shop #2 the customers were having fun with all the new clothing and jewelry that had arrived just in time for the day! Our new clothing line was a big hit and can't wait for the gals to see the rest of the clothing from that order when it arrives soon!

John and Linda were all smiles when they came into the shop after they had finished their lunch in our cafe...... It was an unanimous thumbs up from everyone. Lunch was great!

Meilan was running around the shop helping cutomers and she was all smiles too.........

The food was being prepared in the kitchen before it was brought outside to be placed on the tables. It was presented so beautifully......

All the gals enjoying the luncheon and it couldn't have been more perfect a day. The weather cooperated and the wind was just a gentle breeze.......

These gals came all the way from Ahwatukee, Debbie and Roseanne and Renee....... They have fun shopping after lunch too.

Boy were we tired at the end of the day. But what a great day it was...

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO ATTENDED OUR EVENT WE APPRECIATE ALL THE LOVE AND SUPPORT YOU GIVE US, AND WE WOULDN'T BE HERE WITHOUT EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU.

Embelish Your Story

2011-03-02T19:41:00.000-08:00

New at #1 shop is Embelish Your Story..... A great new way to show off your favorite photos. Everything is magnetized. You start with a background and just go from there. Its almost like scrapbooking for the wall. It's lots of fun and the possibilities are endless.

Paris in Spring is just a few days away.... I hope everyone has saved the date to come to Glendale. There will be lots of fun things to do. Stop by the side yard at #2 shop and visit all the vendors and their wonderful wares. Tomorrow is the cut off for our sidewalk cafe so if you still want to come let me know in the morning, call 623-847-3232 and talk to Sandra or me......
OHH LA LA see you soon!

New at #2 Shop

2011-02-18T19:15:00.001-08:00

We are back from our buying trip in Las Vegas, Nevada and found lots of new clothing and accessories for shop #2 which will be arriving in the coming months...... But in the meantime here is some new merchandise already in the shop.

We have received new hats and scarves for spring. Flowy, feminine and floral detail is what has been showing at all the apparel shows! Ahhhhh that romantic look is back.

Lots and lots of new hats.....

We just got in this purple strip linen jacket. Looks great with pearls....

From Tokyomilk they are now doing a lip balm that comes in this cute box. Got to have it just for the box. Lusicous scents like mint, cherry bomb, and......

5 new fragrances in our perfumes from Tokyomilk, my favorite new one is schenu bleu... a light floral scent.....

This top is just so soft and flowy......

And there are alots of new purses in fun spring colors... and lots more to arrive.

We are now carrying aspen bay candles. They too are made of soy so they are a healthier burning candles. Shhh! I know Anthropologie carries these candles too. And as you all know I love Anthropologie it is my inspiration......

DON'T FORGET TO MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MARCH 5TH FOR OUR FRENCH MARKET AND SIDEWALK CAFE..... WE STILL HAVE OPENINGS FOR OUR SIDEWALK CAFE IF ANY OF YOU WANT TO STILL MAKE RESERVATIONS. THE MENU IS TRULY WONDERFUL, AND SO MUCH FOOD..... CALL 623-847-3232 OR EMAIL ME WITH YOUR RESERVATION.....

Paris In Spring Time!

2011-02-12T19:23:00.000-08:00

Our 3rd annual Paris In Spring French Market and Sidewalk Cafe is quickly coming up. We will be having the very popular sidewalk cafe outside of The Cottage Garden II again and the menu this year is absolutely fabulous..... The vendors will be selling their wonderful wares in the side yard and Kate will be doing her readings again, she was busy all day long........ our french mime will be peeking around and you will never know where he is.... SAVE THE DATE: March 5th 10:00am - 6:00pm.

If you would like to dine in the outdoor cafe please call the me at The Cottage Garden 623-847-3232 or email me at cmigray@cox.net. The seatings are at 11am and 1pm and is by prepaid reservation, we will accept check or cash, the cost is $15.00 plus gratuity. This year we are having the luncheon catered by Tastefully Plated, the menu will be at the bottom of this post. The food will definitely please the tastebuds. Bon Appetite!

LUNCHEON MENU
Anti-Pasta Skewers:
Ham, Turkey, Cheese, Tomato, Black Olive, Artichoke,
Pepperoni, Grape, 7 Cheese Tortellini

Albacore Tuna Salad with Red Grapes, Celery
Fresh Green Salad with your choice of Balsamic Vinaigrette or
Buttermilk Ranch

Your choice of Whole Wheat and White Rolls

DESSERT – FRUIT:
Fruit Skewers:
Red Grape, Pineapple, Strawberry
Chocolate Drizzle - Hazelnuts

BEVERAGES:
Choice of 2 Flavored Teas
Lemon - Sweeteners

off again!

2011-02-11T19:20:00.000-08:00

Feels like we just got back from Dalllas Market ordering more spring and everyday products and of course Christmas and we are off again..... This time we are going to Las Vegas, Nevada for the largest apparel show. There will be clothing and accessories shown in three convention centers. We have been doing so well selling our clothing that I find the necessity to go to where we will have the best selections in items for shop #2.... So we will be ordering for the next four days and can't wait to see what we find and what the trends will be for the coming months. SEE YOU SOON!!!!!!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE!!!!!!! XOXO Carol

New From Dallas!

2011-01-31T19:13:00.000-08:00

The bags are unpacked and all the new jewelry is in #2 shop.....
The necklaces below are from a new vendor we found, there are so many little interesting baubles on them.

This hot pink sweater fabric purse is just too cool........

Lace lace and more lace was the big thing in Texas. Put these darling lace shirts under anything.

AND our popular crocheted head wraps are back. YEA!!!!!!!!!! In many yummy spring colors....

Glitzy headbands too.....

We also found rhinestone initals that are only $5.95. I'll take one for all my friends. Great Valentine present.......

We have lots of Valentine jewelry in all shades of red and pink.....

Our manequin is all decked out in her vintage tutu.... Pink of course.

These are so great satin fabric roses in pin clip or as a headband.

These scarves are so soft like a whiper. Great for Spring.

I love this turqoise necklace with a little bit of bling.

And this big flower necklace is just plain wonderful.....

This is just a few of the many new things we brought back from our buying trip and much more is on the way......

SEE YOU ALL THIS WEEKEND FOR THE CHOCOLATE AFFAIR. SHOULD BE BEAUTIFUL WEATHER, COME SEE ALL THE NEW FINDS!!!!!!!

Dallas Market Trip

2011-01-27T19:29:00.001-08:00

We just got back from our buying and ordering market in Dallas, Texas. Really wanted to go to Atlanta's market but with the BCS game here in Glendale, all the Auburn people were going home the day we wanted to leave and there were no plane tickets available, so off we went to the next best place. Glad we went because we found really great Christmas items for this years season. And lots of other wonderful things that will be arriving soon.

We stayed at this beautiful hotel which just had a multi million dollar renovation.

The lobby was absolutely gorgeous.

This was the atrium and this floating sculpture was absolutely mesmerizing.

I ordered almost every ornament from this tree in one of my favorite showrooms, Raz Imports.

I loved the idea of a sideways door on the wall. This showroom had some wonderful vignettes.

Just a few pics and lots more to follow. #2 shop has lots of what we brought back from the jewelry part of the show, so hope you all can stop in and see all the new sparklies.......

Off We Go!!!!

2011-01-19T19:23:00.000-08:00

The many pallets of boxes are opened and vignetted around the stores..... The shop looked so empty with Christmas gone but NOT forgotten..... SOOOOOOOO! Heather and I are off to Dallas to order Christmas for this year. Yes we order this far in advance so we get the best selection. The shops will be open and Meilan, Sandra and Connie will be there to help you all.

Can't wait to see what is new and exciting at market..... Fill you all in as soon as we get back.
UP UP AND AWAY!!!!!! WHEEEEEEEE!!!!!! See you all real soon.

Glow Night

2011-01-09T19:38:00.001-08:00

Even though I have participated in the Glitter and Glow Night for 13 years I am still in awe of how beautiful it is to see all the hot air balloons lining the streets of downtown Glendale. Saturday night was the last night the Christmas lights were on at the park two blocks from the shops...

There were just crowds and crowds of people.

This gal traveled all the way from Australia and bought one of our scarves.....

Even though we were there till 11pm Meilan was still all smiles.......

This guy was probably saying there goes a balloon lighting up!!!!!!
It was such a great evening in downtown Glendale, the weather was perfect and everyone seemed to be having a good time.

Out with the old-in with the new!

2011-01-04T18:53:00.001-08:00

Sandra and I have cleaned out the front bedroom of all the Christmas and have been busily working on getting the first shipment of all the new Spring goodies unpacked and displayed....... There is alot of beautiful items for Spring bright colors are whats really making the front room pop!!!!!

We even did a wall totally devoted to many birdie pictures..... birds are still the in thing....

Buckets filled with flowers and nests are all around the room!

Bird Houses galore!!!! Whats Spring without birdhouses....

A sweet vignette of greenery, flowers and birds.

Ranoculus in little jars all in a row.

Bunny bowl full of nests......

Bright flowers in a bucket stand...... It is so eye catching......

While Sandra and I have been busy decorating #1 shop, Meilan has been waving her magic decorating wand at #2 shop, I will give you a peak in the next couple of days......

GLITTER AND GLOW IS THIS SATURDAY NIGHT JANUARY 8th FROM 4PM-11PM.... BUT WE WILL BE OPEN AT OUR NORMAL TIME OF 10AM JUST IN CASE YOU WANT TO SHOP BEFORE THE CROWDS START COMING....IT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL NIGHT OF THE YEAR AND I HOPE ALL OF YOU CAN MAKE IT OUT TO GLENDALE TO BEHOLD THE SIGHT..... WE SHOULD HAVE A COUPLE OF HOT AIR BALLOONS IN FRONT THE COTTAGE GARDEN SHOPS......

New Years Day!

2010-12-31T10:10:00.000-08:00

We will be open Saturday New Years Day from 11am to 4pm.... We have had so many request to be open so after much going back and forth we thought you all want to bring in the new year SHOPPING at The Cottage Garden...... SEE YOU ALL SATURDAY!!!!!!!!

MAY YOUR NEW YEAR BE FILLED WITH MANY WONDERFUL BLESSINGS..... HERE'S TO THE BEST YEAR EVER!!!!!!!!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-24T11:48:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to all. Hope your day was filled with family, friends and lots of joy. And here's to a New Year filled with peace, happiness and all things wonderful......

Don't forget our Christmas sales starts December 26th 9am...... See you all bright and early!!!!!!

After Christmas Sale!

2010-12-23T19:21:00.001-08:00

Can hardly believe that it is almost Christmas. The last 6 weeks have just flew by.........
We have had a wonderful season at the Cottage Garden but we still have a little bit of Christmas left sooooooooooo.......... that means AFTER CHRISTMAS SALE!!!!!!!! YAHOOOO......

So bright and early Sunday December 26th 9am we will start our sale...... Christmas is 50% off. We have to make room for all the new items that have already started arriving.

See you then!!!!!!! Put on your comfortable shoes, grab a Starbucks and head on over to the Cottage Garden.....

Its Finally Out!!!

2010-11-25T19:16:00.001-08:00

We have been waiting a year and the Sunset magazine December issue is finally in the stores....... AND The Cottage Garden is featured in the article about downtown Glendale...... We were so excited to be picked to be part of the article.

A BIG WOO HOO TO MY LITTLE SHOPS THEY MADE TO THE BIG TIMES!!!!!!!

Don't forget Glitter Nights start tomorrow. We will be open till 10pm every Friday and Saturday until the weekend before Christmas....

New at #2 Shop!

2010-11-23T20:13:00.000-08:00

We have been getting so many new things in at #2 shop, from clothing to purses and scarves!!!!

This outfit from Willow is very comfy for the chilly days ahead.

And scarves are the big accessory so we have plenty for you to stock up with....

We have already sold out of this cute outfit and just got it back in in 3 colors. Looks great over jeans or leggings and boots.

These sweater material headwraps are just flying out of the store. They are just to stinkin cute and a great price of only $13.95..... we have a ton of fabulous colors.

But the best of all is we were approved to carry the Big Buddha purses and they arrived yesterday. They are so wonderful and it will be hard to make up your choice. Oh well! might just have to buy 2 or more. The best part about these purses are they are made from vegetable product and not animal product (leather).......

This is one of my personal favorites!

Love these little wristlet clutches :-).

This is a great bag and big enough to use as an overnight bag or diaper bag.

Very cool purse!

Another on of my favorites.... love the flower accents.

This one is made with denim fabric.

Faux fur bag.

Meilan our #2 shop girl came up with this great idea. Buckets of stocking stuffer ideas all in one spot. Meilan has been helping lots of customers with picking out gifts for all the girls on your Christmas list. If you need ideas stop in and talk to her.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL..... DON'T FORGET WE START OUR GLITTER NIGHTS ON NOVEMBER 26th. We will be open until 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights till the weekend before Christmas.....

Laura Van Frames and Crosses

2010-11-20T20:28:00.000-08:00

We just got in one of our most favorite American artists, Laura Van....... I must say she definitely outdid herself. This order of frames, crosses and the most beautiful box are so wonderful....... So all you girls that love Laura Van should hurry in before they are all gone.

This black cross is made from a great piece of chunky wood.

Great mustard color.....

This is the wonderful black box complete with sweet pearls.

Here's that wonderful mustard color again.....

Its hard to tell but this is a neat taupey green color. Really cool!!!!

And just a reminder that Glitter Nights starts next Friday night and goes every Friday and Saturday nights until the weekend before Christmas. We will be open until at least 9pm. on those nights. The area looks so beautiful with all the Christmas lights.

Christmas Tea at the Spicery

2010-11-13T20:51:00.000-08:00

Our second annual Christmas Tea was held at the Spicery in our 1895 house. Everyone seemed to have a good time and it was so nice to have the Spicery back in its most wonderful splendor...... and Martha still has that special touch!

Lisa is the hostess who welcomed all the gals for tea. Our Cottage Garden girl Heather helped Lisa with the seating......

The rooms just waiting for the ladies to arrive.....

Everyone was all smiles as I went around snapping photos.....

The following three photos was a family of four generations. They all came together to have tea.....

After the tea the gals came and shopped. Boy what goes better together than getting together with girlfriends than going for tea and SHOPPING!

Thank you to all the gals that came out and supported us today..... I hope you all enjoyed and you were all part of making the day a great success.AND thanks to Heather for all she did working with Martha and coordinating this event. Since I was playing Christmas (decorating) elf. I had my hands full down to my curled up elf shoes getting the shops turned into a magical Christmas wonderland.

Christmas!!!!!!

2010-11-07T18:27:00.001-08:00

Our Christmas Open House was last Friday night and it was a wonderful evening. Lots of people came by and ate from goodies (the quiche was being eaten as fast as we could warm it up) all the wine was drank and everyone shopped their little hearts out..... All our hard work was so worth it by the look on everyone's face and the comments we received. Thank you to all who came and made our evening a success.

These new little angels called Gifts from Above are absolutely adorable.....

Darling snowmen. Because moi is such a sucker for snowmen.......

Little birds everywhere!

And of course our line of the metal Roundtop Collection is such a hit.

We were so busy for Christmas open house I didn't get a chance to take photos of the evening..... but I will post more Christmas photos in the coming days. There is lots of new things coming in almost daily. We have some new Cut Loose and Willow clothes in. A bunch of new scarves and some darling hats all at #2 shop.

Almost Done!!!

2010-11-03T20:54:00.000-07:00

Well the cottage garden elves have outdone themselves this year. The shop looks absolutely breathtaking.... and we have received sooooooo many complements already from some of the gals coming in and we still need to do some tweaking!

Don't forget Christmas Open House this Friday night from 6pm to 9pm. The food and wine has been bought and there will be plenty of munchies so come hungry and get ready to enjoy a night of shopping delight......

Thanks to Laurel, Sandra, Meilan, Heather and Connie for all their help, I couldn't have done this big undertaking without them. They have all worked so hard for the last 3 weeks and I hope you all will come in and enjoy what we have done....... Carol

Heres to Glitter!

2010-10-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday finally decorated shop #2 for Christmas.... This shop gets all the silver and white ornaments. We have alot of Wendy Addison's glitter ornaments. There are the most adorable little german glitter glass birds in her collection this year. They are a must have.

Wendy's santos angels are really wonderful too!

Hope everyone is planning to join us Friday night for our Christmas Open House from 6pm - 9pm.

This adorable couple just hanging out on the front porch of #2 shop on Saturday afternoon. Jason and Cori....... And by the way Jason is Heather's son.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN TO ALL!!!!!!!!

A Little Bit of Christmas

2010-10-27T21:06:00.001-07:00

The Cottage Garden girls have been slaving away to get Christmas into the shop in time for our big Christmas Open House on November 5th. The rooms were cleared and now the fun begins. DECORATING!!!!!!

This lonely little tree sits by the front door just waiting to be filled with ornaments.....

Just a few little vignettes that we have gotten started!

Please join us for an evening of nibbles, wine and first glance at the enchantment of Christmas at the Cottage Garden.... November 5th from 6pm to 9pm or until we are all ready to go home!

We are now on Facebook! :)

2010-10-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

Please "like" us on Facebook for upcoming sales and events at The Cottage Garden.

Help!

2010-10-22T21:43:00.001-07:00

The Christmas elves have arrived and are just so anxious to get the decorating started for Christmas.....
Sooooooooo that means Halloween and Fall have got to go! Please help us get it out of the store by coming and buying all your last minute needs for decorating for this spooky holiday. In return we will give you 50% off your purchases of Fall and Halloween.

THIS WILL MAKE ALL OF US SO HAPPY AND THE ELVES WILL HAVE A MUCH EASIER JOB.

Just wait and see what they do for the upcoming season!!!!!! Pictures will be posted soon......

What Fun At Our Halloween Party!

2010-10-17T19:16:00.001-07:00

The Girls Night Out Halloween Party was just so much fun. We had gals in costume and some not...... but nonetheless everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had the music turned up, plenty of nibbles and wine.....

Sandra our local artist showed off her beautiful Halloween bottles. Her Twlight bottles of Edward and Jacob were the big hit.

I of course picked one with a black bird and an old poem about Halloween.....

The entrance to the shop was draped with black toiling to added to the ambiance.....

A little blurry but we had black candles light all over the outside of the shop.... Really looked cool until the wind came and blew them all out. OH WELL!!!!!!!!!

I also decorated white pumpkins with black toiling and they turned out so stinking cute. They are now for sale at #2 shop...... By the way got the idea falling asleep the other night. Always seem to do my best thinking then.

Dawn and Tina came as the Geisha Girl twins. You girls were the best.....

And Sandra was a Renaissance queen complete with her Pure West purse.....

Even found wine at Sprouts to go along with the evening called Twisted!!!!

The nibbles table just about got completely nibbled away.

Thank you girls for making my evening a wonderful success and hope you all had as much fun as the Cottage Garden girls did...

To see more pictures of our Halloween party check out Dawn's blog at http://bohemianvalhalla.blogspot.com/ from October 15th......

Front Porch Festival

2010-10-12T21:03:00.000-07:00

This Saturday October 16th from 10am-4pm is our annual Front Porch Festival. Everyone in Catlin Court will be participating in this event. Just start at the Visitors Center to spin the prize wheel and then come on over to Catlin Court. There will be entertainment, demonstrations and just plain old fun...... Ian will again be playing bluegrass music on his banjo at the Cottage Garden! It should be a wonderful day. And we still have a great selection of fall and Halloween at #1 shop...

And don't forget about our Halloween Party on Friday night October 15th from 6pm-9pm..... We also will be giving 20% off all fall and Halloween on Friday night to all who come dressed up for the party...... See you then!!!!

Halloween Party Time!!!!!

2010-10-04T18:50:00.001-07:00

Just in time for our Halloween Party Ashley our ever so creative local artist has put together these absolutely stunning witches hats, each one so wonderfully done. Which one would you like to wear to our Halloween Party?
And speaking of parties, don't forget about our fun GIRLS NIGHT OUT HALLOWEEN PARTY on October 15th from, 6pm-9pm.......
We will have special wine for that night, goulish treats and candles everywhere to set the mood. So dress up in your most fun costumes and join us for a fun evening of hanging out with the girls, shopping, eatting and have a glass of wine. We will have the music of Lady GaGa and Katie Perry...... Sandra will have her bottles all handmade with all the goulish and witchy things inside for sale and......
Katherine Metcalf will have tarot card readings for $20.00
We will also have door prizes for best costumes.

Hope everyone can make it out for a fun evening, and the weather should be absolutely perfect.......

Shift Forward!

2010-09-27T18:56:00.001-07:00

Last Thursday night Linda from Papa Ed's Ice Cream and moi attended the kick off campaign for Shift Forward. This was started by the LocalFirst AZ. group of small businesses.
Did you know that by shifting 10% of your spending into small business throughout Arizona will generate millions of dollars back into our economy.... How can we do that you may ask: well.... when you buy from locally owned companies like all the wonderful shops in downtown Glendale (me included) or shop at small grocery stores or produce farms, or do your printing with a local printer and on and on we give back to the community the most. $43 out of every $100... and a chain store only $13. out of every $100.

A study was done in Grand Rapids, Michigan roughly the size of Tucson where they asked the consumers to shift 10% of their spending to a small business. Now this will boogle your mind.... In one year they generated $130 million back into their states economy. Created 16,000 new jobs which generated $52 million in new salaries.

All it took was everyone just changing their spending habits just a little. We are a city of 6million can you just imagine what we can do for our state with us all SHIFTING FORWARD!!!!!

I am sorry for getting on a soapbox on this post but I am wanting us not to have to see anymore stores closing or people losing jobs or homes. I do want us all to just think how easy this would be to help our economy!

Our meeting was held at the El Chorro Lodge. If you have never been there, it is beautiful with great views and outside seating and the food looked yummy.....

There were alot of enthusiastic members at the kick off meeting.......

Ohhhh Sandra!!!!!

2010-09-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

We will be having a trunk show (so to speak) on our Girls night out Halloween Party! A new emerging creative diva is in the making and it is our very own Sandra who has worked at #1 shop from time to time. She recently took a sodering class and now the rest is history. Her creative juices started flowing and she is creating these wonderful vintage bottles filled with all kinds of spooky items.... These all happen to be related to Halloween and they will be for sale at her little trunk show on the night of our party! She has been working hard creating and I hope everyone will come and gobble up these wonderful bottles that will complement any Halloween vignette!!!! I know I have my eye on a couple....... and they look great nestled in between Lynne's handmade pumpkins.

This picture is Sandra's inspiration!!!!!! Ours too because it is so vampish!!!! This old gal is just oozing with sultryness....

SO DON'T FORGET TO PUT OCTOBER 15th 6pm-9pm on your calendar for a fun time at The Cottage Garden!

Halloween Party!

2010-09-19T20:41:00.001-07:00

I promised you more details about our girls night out "Halloween Party".
It is going to be on October 15th from 6pm to 9pm..... This is a costume party so scoure your closet for whatever you can throw together for our theme "vamp".... but if you aren't feeling in the vamp mood you can come as whatever you like.
While they last I will have a little gifty for the first 30 or so gals that arrive in costume. We will have a contest for best costumes and I will post later as to what the prizes will be.
And of course there will be lots of refreshments.
I hope all you gals will come and just have fun. It will be outside of #2 shop. The shops will be open so you can shop too...... Can't wait for you to see how we will decorate for the occasion!!!!!!!

What a Milestone!

2010-09-16T20:58:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow starts a weekend long celebration of the Country Maiden's 20th anniversary. This country primitive shop is located right next door to my Cottage Garden I. If you can stop in and congratulate Cheryl the owner for reaching this wonderful milestone.
We will all be open till 9pm. on Friday September 17 for everyone to enjoy a little longer shopping day.

Hope to see you all!
More details about our Halloween party in the next posting!!!!!!

More Halloween!

2010-09-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

More skinny leg kids have arrived! But they are going fast. We are all amazed how collectible and popular these little guys are....... They have just added the Dorothy and her gang to their collection.

They look right at home among Lynne's handmade pumpkins.

The mummy boy is just so cute!

Li'l cowboy and cowgirl have just rode in....

We also have gotten in a few pieces from the artist Nicole Sayre. This pumpkin girl so cute!!!!!

Another of Nicoles pieces is the girl on the black raven.

And lastly we just got in these way cool mats from our french company........

They can either lay on the floor or use them as a wall hanging. They priced right too and won't last long.

We have plans underway for our girls night out Halloween party. It will be Friday Night October 15th from 6pm to 9pm. We will keep you posted about the details throughout the following weeks. It will be fun fun fun. So lets get the party started!!!!!!!!!