Tuesday, December 14, 2010

A simple 'thank you' to Emma

Most days I go through the motions of life in general without sparing a thought for how our work might impact upon someone else.  One of my dearest friends since childhood is a heart lung transplant specialist, so to me, he is a hero, he changes and saves lives on a daily basis, breathing new life into people who almost have none.  I simply design and sell textiles, never thinking that perhaps it might bring joy to someone who is suffering.

However I was tilted off my busy bee insane Christmas work axis yesterday by a simple 'thank you' email from a customer, Emma, who indicated to me she is ill and spends a considerable amount of time in one room and therefore wants that room to be filled with beauty and uplifting things.  She thanked me for helping her find what she needed to create her masterpiece, I was a little overcome with emotion to say the least.

She purchased some of our Leaf Rose Orange tablecloths through one of our fabulous retailers Nest Emporium a few months ago and what she did with them is beyond amazing! 

Wardrobe Doors closeup - look at the precision of those upholstery nails!
Wardrobe drawers - loving the little silver melon knobs!

Incredible...all done by hand

We are sending Emma a little Christmas surprise!  Thank you for making us feel that somehow in some small way what we do might make a little difference and bring joy to the soul, even just a smidge.

Keren
xx

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Limelight - 'Gewurzhaus'


Gewurzhaus (meaning spice house in German) is an Aladdin's Cave of herbs and spices located in the style and food mecca of Lygon Street, Carlton.   Sisters Eva and Maria Konecsny are so much more than sugar, spice and all things nice.  This duo have some serious business brains and a unique concept store that will go far.  The first Gewurzhaus opened a mere 6 months ago and the next store opening is underway for early 2011 at another Melbourne location.

The gorgeous Maria (left) and Eva (right) sporting our Jessie Steele Aprons (image via Gewurzhaus)
I want one of those shop counters and their shoes!
Stocking a comprehensive A-Z of herbs, spices, salts and sugars, Gewurzhaus also stocks over 100 unique blends which are ground on site from fresh whole ingredients.  With over 300 different products in the shop there is seriously something for every taste.
French Lavender Salt - are you serious - how good does that sound?
Chocolate Ginger Sugar - oh my my!!
I did a little online shopping yesterday in their new online store and well...I just had to go back for a second round shop this morning purchasing everything from Salt & Pepper Squid blend to Vanilla Bean Sugar and Chocolate Spice.  For those of us who are a little unsure of how to use all these delicious delicacies, Eva & Maria have made it simple by posting downloadable recipes on the website.  Fabulous idea!

It gets better, when visiting the store you can select from the beautiful prepackaged items or 'self-scoop' which according to the girls is a great way to sample a new spice, you get to lift the lid, breathe in the aroma and see the product before scooping your desired quantity into a specially crafted and labelled spice bag. 

Think lolly shop for big kids!


Bags of fresh spices.
 
Gewurzhaus Shop Front - Lygon Street, Carlton. 

I think there could be room for a bed in there!  (images via Gewurzhaus)

A little tip - expect to see these fabulous sisters and their little spice shop popping up all over the place. 

A little suggestion for Eva & Maria - set up shop here in Brisbane and you will have the Queensland culinary world knocking the door down!

Keren
xx