Pre-Valentine 'nods' to Seattle Boutiques

I have to admit, the shopping expedition was strictly for my new client (me); but as I watch the Grammy pre-show & download the photos, I realized that tomorrow is Valentines Day.  So that explains all the red & cute little decor extras. (oops).  Hey, I sent Planner a heartfelt card for our wonderful friendship, but I AM a Single (note the title) lady in Seattle. Besides, anxiously waiting to start my new move, the great wind storm last night while online following my fellow bloggers & Mercedes Fashion Show highlights - it went right past me. 

So although haven't started my move yet, I did come up with some great new ideas for the little bungalow.  So called up my sister & mom to come help me 'raid' some ideas from the local boutiques & second hand stores. 

Our first stop was to one of my favorite little boutiques and websites: Curtsy Bella.  They are located directly behind University Village shopping center, on the corner of NE Blakeley in a quaint brick building with black awnings.  They have a little bit of everything - decor, baby items, lingerie, gifts, some amazingly funny cards and complete eye candy.  I suggest you bring your friends, take some wonderful time sharing all the little nooks and crannies then gladly wait for them to wrap your purchases in even greater finery.  Its sensory overload and so well worth it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our best moment was when we had a chance to talk to the beautiful Danielle Fayette (one of the owners) who also has been recently featured for her own amazing wedding in the Seattle Bride & Groom magazine Spring 2011 issue.  You have to find it and see the details and the decor she created herself for the wedding.

 

And when you go in, ask the beautiful Miss Danielle about her hand created wedding ring... I wanted one (but not the wedding part)... the ring, oh and the shoes & the dress changes & the ... oh, everything!!

Did I mention, that this store is 'way too close for comfort' also from the bungalow - uh oh!!
But sister managed to snag this beautiful/unique little ring for herself.  It's not Danielle's but it is just as fun.

We then headed back down the street to a furniture consignment store where we both fell in love with a few items.  Sister found some deep chocolate leather chairs with ottomans and they were comfy.  Unfortunately (one) was sold.  They worked best as a match set (too bad).  And I fell in love with this (fit me like fine leather glove - lol) sofa.  Price was a little high for used furniture, but I did think it was a great piece and note my love of tufting.

I also eyed these pieces.  The table - because of its color and the play of something old with something new/contemporary would be so eclectic and so me.

This piece I could see washed with white & antiqued with mirrors in the back.

The dining table is ironically a bit 'country' but I loved the play of large legs and actually the rose/antique cushions.  And the since it was a high top, the chairs have a great bar posts fronts that are very comfortable.



After some new ideas, we went to lunch near Fremont and then to walk off the BBQ.  First stop in Fremont was the 'Junk Shoppe' (on Fremont Blvd.) but nothing too much to mention; we then crossed the street (as my eyes gleaned with excitement over at the COLOR of the building that is) Essenza - a jewelry, candle, giftable boutique also with its own fine choices.  For me the sensory overload was the COLOR of the walls.  I managed to ask one of the owners who said it was a layer of beige, blue overlay and a wash of milk (white) paint... oohh, ahhh.   

 

 

 

We finally ended the day with a quick walk to the next store - where sister once again found her another purchase, some great leather, western cut/knee high riding boots.  Sorry, no pictures - we were closing the store and trying to get out.  But a nice afternoon for a non-rainy Sunday.  (Watch, I'll be whining over the rain for my move - so please send GOOD KARMA - at least for Saturday & Sunday!!)

Love ya all and Happy Valentines Day to those in love, those who know they are loved  those who know that love can come from your own passion and admiration of great friends.  That's the best Valentines Day and what love truly means.