According to a New hot source for great auction launch information My Launches, here are today’s group launches to check out…

Boutique InVouge Stump the Designer »

D2MA Lady Bug »

The Little Darlas RETRO Hula »

YaYas Anchors Away! »

Boutique WISH Home is Where the Heart is »

Le Chic Mademoiselle Euro Holiday »

7&Co Spring Break »

Though being a mom is one of the most rewarding jobs out there it is also one of the toughest””and those mothering multiples quite possibly have the toughest job of all. What better way to celebrate your hard work (and moments of insanity) than with the perfect tee from Multiple Moms Rock.

Designed by Wendy Irvine, a mother of twin boys, Multiple Moms Rock focuses on designing “elegant but humorous sayings paired with cool designs for moms of twins, triplets and quads. Most importantly, [she] wanted these tees to come in attractive colors, fit well, and be extremely comfortable.” That’s all I need to know to want to try one for myself!

I was sent the “Raising twins is an extreme sport,” and after opening the package I was immediately impressed with not only the quality but also the softness of the fabric. The graphic portrayed this extreme sport perfectly and the color of the tee was a nice, soothing blue””a color a mother of twins would enjoy. Though I plan to pass this particular shirt to a friend who recently had her own twin girls, I’m already considering Wendy’s “Why can’t I have a time out?” for myself. I think most moms would be lying if they said this thought didn’t cross their mind at least once a day! Read the rest of this entry »

A Touch of Lime. I love contrasting fabrics on most anything, but especially on this funky bag by azalea*lane. Designed with Jennifer Paganelli’s Girlfriends prints, and sewn in vertical stripes. What a cool purse to tote about town.

For more information on azalea*lane please check out her eBay Me page. You can also shop Other Listings including her amazing Easter Baskets!

There’s something special about giving someone a present, right before they open the package the sheer anticipation of wondering what might be found inside. I’ve discovered a fun new gift idea and I couldn’t wait to share it with our readers. It’s called an Etui’ Box, and it is sure to delight your friends when you gift them one, as it’s a present that will get a great reaction!

At first glance one might think this is just an ordinary (yet pretty) box. But as you remove the lid, the sides fan down to reveal many little compartments and special treasures. I was sent a gorgeous Etui’ needle work and sewing kit box. Etui’ is based on the Chinese concept of a box within a box. I think we all need one! It comes pre-filled with needles, thread, tiny scissors and much more.I adore all of my sewing necessities right there in one spot, this is perfect for the seamstress who has everything!

These coolest of packages are available on Spare Time Crafts on Etsy. If sewing isn’t your thing, Spare Time Crafts has designed an alternate Etui’ Box for manicures, we’ve all gotta keep those nails looking great.

Etui Boxes were such a treasure to discover, they are well made and adorable to look at. My kids are in awe of how the box opens and fans the sides down. It’s really a clever idea and an ideal gift idea for Mother’s Day. Gift Giving just got way more fun! – Daria

***GIVEAWAY – Spare Time Crafts is giving away a free Etui’ Box to one of our lucky posters. Simply leave a comment and you’ll be entered into a draw to win the box of your choice from their Etsy store.

Dolly Rock. Just rock on over to the funky auctions of Rachel from DeepBlueC. I had to share this fab FIND today, it’s called Dolly Rock and the applique and the embellishment on these hand designed jeans is Rolling Stone worthy.
For more information on Rachel’s DeepBlueC please check out her eBay Me page. You can also shop Her other unique listings.

Wild Fuzzy Tails Grrrrr! Can you hear the sounds of the jungle calling your name? This Jungle-rrific set by Cherry Lime Kids is the perfect set for summer safari. Don’t you just adore the bright lime color and fab animal fabrics? Brandi and Gabby, awesome job on the pics for this auction – I had to share it right away.

For more information on Cherry Lime Kids please check out their eBay Me page. You can also shop their eBay auction listings.

We can’t stop the Classic Cuteness in our Fashion Show this week. Boutique Cafe is thrilled to share the scrumptious designs of Andrea from Fleur L’enfant. ENJOY!

We asked Andrea to share her inspirations with us:

“My mom loved to sew for our family and home creating beautiful window dressings and pillows as well as sweet little sets for the entire family. Although I appreciated all of the handmade creations, I was not interested in sewing until my first child was born. I began sewing little vintage chenille dresses for her and then was totally hooked. I began selling on ebay a year ago and have enjoyed every minute of it.

I love all things “vintage” and find most of my inspiration through vintage textiles, button, lace trimmings and even vintage garments. I love to hunt for something beautiful and unique and then cut it up and mix it with some new fabrics to create a very unique style with vintage details. I have designed entire outfits around a rhinestone pin or vintage lace. Each time I am inspired to challenge myself more and more. I love trying new things and lately I’ve been mixing up textures as well. I find it adds so much interest to a set and it’s so much fun working with the different textures.

I am thrilled to be part of a wonderful new design group of friends called LimeVine. I am thankful for all of my sweet buyers and appreciate their kindness. Thank you Daria and Megan for inviting me to the fashion show this week. I love my daily cup of couture!” – Andrea

You can learn more about Fleur L’enfant on their eBay Me page. Browse through Andrea’s ebay listings. You can also Shop their beautiful website. **Please allow time for the show to load. Fashion Shows are in Quicktime format, a free download here.

On today’s show, Daria dishes with Celebrity Nursery & Family Lifestyle Designer Wendy Bellissimo. Wendy tells the story of how her successful business was born, what it is like to design for celebrity babies, and the joy she finds in designing rooms and products for children. Wendy also shares her love of being a Mother, and her feelings of wanting to be a mom since she was a young child herself. Hear her say: “Motherhood puts things into perspective” & “I still say the Glue Gun is my best friend!”. Laugh with Wendy, as we put her on the spot with our 60 Second Blitz.

Daria shares details of how you can Win some GREEN by showing your Green creations in our BC Chat forum this weekend. Full Details here. Music by Coco Love Alcorn – “Go to Sleep”.

For those who are big fans of establishing healthy eating habits as soon as baby takes his first bite of solid food will love Plum Organics. Plum Organics, a new gourmet line of organic frozen baby food will tempt baby’s tastebuds and make you feel like the smartest mom in the world.

Gigi Lee Chang, a mom and founder of Plum Organics, has found a way to combine a unique cooking process with flash freezing to lock in fresh flavors and textures. This process also helps retain vitamins and enzymes essential to baby’s development. That all sounds wonderful but does this process really “lock in” that fresh flavor? I was sent one each of Plum Organics’ Sweet Potatoes and Super Greens so I could personally test out this whole flash freezing thing.

Well, I’m now a big fan of flash freezing, or should I say “fresh food flashed.” The smell of the Sweet Potatoes made me almost wish Thanksgiving were around the corner, and the Super Greens smelled of fresh peas. I love fresh peas! I didn’t get a chance to test the samples out on George as he’s past the smashed food stage, but they looked and smelled good enough to eat and I was almost tempted to down the Sweet Potatoes myself””and I don’t even like sweet potatoes! Read the rest of this entry »

Trends Research Analyst Bob Rattivarakorn writes about Google’s shift to podcast advertising and its projected growth in coming years:

While we have watched emerging media such as blogs and social networking rapidly gain popularity online as well as attract large chunks of advertising dollars, there is another medium just waiting to break through – podcasting.

eMarketer reports that advertising on podcasts will escalate over the next five years, from $80 million in 2006 to $400 million by 2011. Similar studies by PQ Media suggest that podcast advertising will surpass blog advertising by 2010 and reach $327 million compared to the $300.4 million blog ad market…Some of the podcast advertisers include Warner Bros, Paramount, Dell, T-Mobile, HBO and Honda.

The cost-effective and niche nature of podcasting is proving to be a new powerful marketing channel. With podcasts increasingly being consumed on mobile gadgets and iPods, one-on-one dialogues with your consumers are here. Can other media platform deliver such a personal experience?

We couldn’t agree more. Combining podcasting and blogging, Boutique Cafe has become a very personal experience for our listeners and viewers. Our internal research reveals an audience composed of market-savvy women with significant purchasing power. In addition to their own salaries, these women make the majority of purchasing decisions in their households. Making decisions based on our recommendations, they are more likely to buy online and try new products that simplify their lives. Because of the relationship of trust we have with our listeners and viewers, these same women are more likely to shop online and try products and services we recommend.

If this describes your target audience please contact us regarding sponsorship opportunities and a detailed media kit. Boutique Cafe’s advertising is structured to meet the needs of both Larger Businesses and Small Startups.

Read the full article.

Sources Include:
RarePlay, eMarketer, BusinessWeek, MediaWeek

Coming soon to the Chat Forum is our Monthly Clicking Spree. This month we are excited to share the prizes ahead of time…here’s your sneek peek – the spree is coming soon! Thank you for the wonderful prize donations.

Here’s YOUR Sneak Peek:

$25.00 Gift Certificate towards any painted item on their website
www.dreaminbohemian.com

Pink “Crackle glass” swarovski earrings
www.roxidesigns.com

Custom tote ““ you pick the color of tote and ribbons
www.tuttifruitydesigns.com

$25.00 Gift Certificate towards anything in her store
www.collectiveelements.com

Set of 5 Boutique Clippies ““ YOU design
Asheton’s Garden

In our BC Chat forum you can now check out an article by Kelly of Ink Puddles Design Studio. If you’re looking for ways to help punch up your auctions read Kelly’s hints and resources for html and some great basics. Thanks Kelly for lending your talents and information to Boutique Cafe.

Read the Article here.

I’ve got another great “.com” find for you if you haven’t already discovered it. And since I’ve started off the week with a food related website, why not stick with the theme? Restaurant.com definitely fits right in!

“From appetizers to dessert, from wine to dinner, Restaurant.com helps restaurant owners promote the new and unique aspects of their restaurants while providing diners with great value in a fun, new and cost effective way.” In other words, the site helps you find restaurants in your area offering dining certificates at a significant savings. Search by zip code or state to find participating restaurants in your area. Once you’ve got your list, you can view further details about the location including menus, wine lists, and chef’s bios. If it sounds yummy enough to try, you can then buy dining certificates for a fraction of the actual value. Some of the restaurants also offer online reservations and/or online take-out and delivery ordering. Love it!

Restaurant.com’s “as seen on” list is impressive: Good Morning America, The Today Show, CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, and even The Wall Street Journal. Even without the “sightings” the deals Restaurant.com offers are worthing seeing—and tasting—for yourself. Hey, I’m all for a cheap dinner date—it means more money for the necessities in life (like a new pair of wedge sandals for Spring).—Emily

Trends Research Analyst Bob Rattivarakorn writes about Google’s shift to podcast advertising and its projected growth in coming years:

While we have watched emerging media such as blogs and social networking rapidly gain popularity online as well as attract large chunks of advertising dollars, there is another medium just waiting to break through – podcasting.

eMarketer reports that advertising on podcasts will escalate over the next five years, from $80 million in 2006 to $400 million by 2011. Similar studies by PQ Media suggest that podcast advertising will surpass blog advertising by 2010 and reach $327 million compared to the $300.4 million blog ad market…Some of the podcast advertisers include Warner Bros, Paramount, Dell, T-Mobile, HBO and Honda.

The cost-effective and niche nature of podcasting is proving to be a new powerful marketing channel. With podcasts increasingly being consumed on mobile gadgets and iPods, one-on-one dialogues with your consumers are here. Can other media platform deliver such a personal experience?

We couldn’t agree more. Combining podcasting and blogging, Boutique Cafe has become a very personal experience for our listeners and viewers. Our internal research reveals an audience composed of market-savvy women with significant purchasing power. In addition to their own salaries, these women make the majority of purchasing decisions in their households. Making decisions based on our recommendations, they are more likely to buy online and try new products that simplify their lives. Because of the relationship of trust we have with our listeners and viewers, these same women are more likely to shop online and try products and services we recommend.

If this describes your target audience please contact us regarding sponsorship opportunities and a detailed media kit. Boutique Cafe’s advertising is structured to meet the needs of both Larger Businesses and Small Startups.

Read the full article.

Sources Include:
RarePlay, eMarketer, BusinessWeek, MediaWeek

Mermaid Delight – I can’t imagine any little girl not going gaga for this design by Robin of nanabobana! Pocket dress features amazing applique and funky hemline. You’ll be Queen of the Seas!

For more information on nanabobana! please check out their eBay Me page. You can also shop their eBay listings for more gorgeous finds.

Charity Auctions The Boutique Angels have joined together with a group launch to support ASA -Autism Society of America. Shop here for a great cause.

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Red Sky Olives Pearls creates this sporty and stylish custom set in size 2t-8. I love the vibrant color, the simplicity and the style. Just think of the places you can go in this, it’s ease of wear at it’s best. Comfy and chic!

For more information on Olivespearls please check out their eBay Me page. You can also shop on their eBay Store for more gorgeous finds.

Looking for a delicious snack with the benefits of fiber? I was sent the new Fiber One Chewy Bars to test and the box lasted less than 5 minutes in my house. My boys jumped at the chance to have a new bar, and they loved them! I was able to wrangle one of them out of the grasp of my 4 year old’s hands. I was quite surprised to find they tasted so yummy. I’m a sucker for chocolate so the “Oats and Chocolate” chewy bar was a good match for me.

As for health factor, I’m admit that I’m no expert – I’ve been known to eat a tube of chocolate chip cookie dough in one sitting. But hey, that was years ago. Chewy Bars boast 35% of the daily value of fiber, it has 140 calories with 35 calories from fat, a good source of calcium and whole grain.

If you’re looking for a delicious way to trick your kids into getting a bit more fiber, this is a good option. Be aware they contain some High Fructose Corn Syrup, but I’m not picky I like syrup and things that taste yummy. These might be really fabulous crumbled up in a dish of fat free yogurt for a new breakfast idea. I will definitely buy more of these. – Daria

Have you ever gone out to eat, ordered something that was truly amazing, and wished you had the recipe so you could enjoy that scrumptious meal at home? If you find yourself craving Outback Steakhouse’s bread or Cinnabon’s cinnamon rolls, you can now satisfy your craving at TopSecret Recipes.com.

TopSecretRecipes.com offers original custom recipes “created from scratch in the test kitchen by the guy who has devoted the last 15 years to kitchen cloning.” Over 20 years ago, “the guy” (aka Todd Wilbur) received a copy of the notorious Mrs. Field’s Cookie Recipe chain letter. After serious disappointment when the recipe failed to taste like Mrs. Field’s, Todd set out on his own to create the perfect clone of the perfect cookie recipe. The rest is delicious history.

Not all the recipes are free on the site, but you’ll find enough to keep you happy and full. Plus, with reviews by everyday chefs like yourself you can find out firsthand how close that clone comes to the real thing. So head on over to TopSecret Recipes.com and lose yourself in something truly yummy. Your family—and your tastebuds—will thank you.—Emily

Animal Crackers This precious 4 piece set by Madie*Jane comes with a Shirred Halter Top, Ruffle Bottom Capris, Animal Crackers Sash, and 2 Button Embellished Flower Clippies. Custom Made in Sizes Newborn to size 5 for those with a craving for Animal Crackers. What a sweet spring set!

For more information on Madie*Jane please check out their eBay Me page. You can also shop on their website www.madiejane.com.

On today’s show Daria shares news of her upcoming interview with Celebrity Nursery Designer Wendy Bellissimo. Our exclusive interview with Alexa Ray Joel last week was a huge hit – leave a message in our show notes from show #53 to win great Alexa Ray Joel prizes! Music: Alexa Ray Joel “Now It’s Gone” from her EP Sketches.

Boutique News includes: Charm St. Denim n’ Dots launch, The Boutique Angels launch for Autism Society of America, Villa Fresca Opens on Blossom St.. You Can Make This launches their “Think Spring” Challenge. Daria shares info on the challenge, and how you can get involved and win cool prizes. Fabric stores involved are: Fabric Hound, Sewzannes Fabrics, Fashionable Fabrics and Yummy Fabrics. This Challenge is also sponsored by Journal Modiste and Boutique Cafe!!

Are you Knit Picky?! Now I admit I know absolutely nothing about knitting, other than the fact that it’s an art and difficult for my left handed self to grasp. What I can tell you is how the Knitting Needles from designer Chelle on Etsy left me in stitches. With sayings like “In Deep Knit”, “Knit Whit”, and “Knit Picky” how could you not want to own a ton of them?

A little BLING in your Step! What’s better in life than bare feet on a warm summer day? I have to admit that I’d love a pair of these barefoot sandals for myself! Wear em’ to the pool or the beach and create a stir for sure. Stretchy, comfortable and available in girls shoe sizes 11-4. They’re a summer must-have!

Learn more about lola*belle on their Me page. Search other lola*belle listings.

And that’s just where I like my new little one to be. The Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper family of products let’s you remain within easy reach of your new baby while at the same time offering your little one a safe sleeping environment. I’m all for having my own space but it’s nice to know baby isn’t far away.

The idea behind the Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper Bassinet “began with a mother and father’s need for a safe sleeping environment for their child. They, like many parents, had rediscovered the benefits of co-sleeping with their infants – increased bonding, ease of feeding and a greater sense of closeness – yet were concerned modern beds weren’t appropriate for a baby’s space.” I love when parents turn a need into a fantastic product from which we all can benefit.

I was lucky enough to test out the Arm’s Reach Co-Sleeper Mini Convertible. What I love about this product is that it will not only fit in the smallest of bedrooms, but if you’ve ever set up a portable crib, you’re well on your way to setting up a Co-Sleeper. With just a few extra steps this unassuming bassinet turns into the ideal co-sleeping arrangement. It took a little help from my husband to get it set up the first time but after that initial setup I could easily do it again. Folding it up was a cinch, even with the extra accessories, and it fit compactly into its carrying case. And did I mention the Mini Convertible converts to portable playard, free standing bassinet, and changing table? Yes, all of those options in one perfect little product. Read the rest of this entry »

So*Euro is so Sassy! Check out this summery and splendid set by designer Crystal of so*euro. The halter dress with full twirlability and bright accents is ideal for the mouse lover in your family. I love the contrast of crisp white with the bright neon polkadots, what a fun set for your doll.

Learn more about so*euro on their Me page

You Can Make This has teamed up with four fantastic fabric sites for their “Think Spring” Challenge to showcase some great Spring fabric lines! The authors from youcanmakethis.com were given 1 month to pick from the fabric selected and create something for Spring that they had written an ebook on. Now the challenge is turned over to you, and you can win big! Boutique Cafe is honored to be a part of this great event, please CLICK HERE for challenge details. This is definitely a challenge you’ll want to take on!

Elliebeanskids set For a simple and sweet set this Spring, check out this delicious design with apples and pears. Custom sized & twirly whirly.

Learn more about elliebeanskids on their Me page

Looking at my home these days you wouldn’t necessarily think I’m big into organization. I attribute it to my 16-month-old who loves to dump out his toy bucket on a daily basis, my 7- and 9-year-olds who can’t seem to keep their Pollys separate from their Barbies, and my 30-something husband who still can’t find the closet to hang his clothes. But that doesn’t mean I’ve given up on my hopes and dreams thanks to The Container Store.

I’m sure most of you know about The Container Store, but it sure doesn’t hurt to be reminded. From pantry organizers and food storage to message boards and desks, The Container Store has something for every room in your home. They even have gift wrap, specialty boxes, and shipping and moving accessories. And if you’re looking for help with a specific room, The Container Store offers organization experts who will work with you to design a free, customized solution for you using their Custom Design Center. I’m always up for some good, free help!

With Spring around the corner it’s time to attack those linen closets and laundry rooms. (It’s also time to attack the Easter candy, but organization is better for the waistline, so let’s try to stay focused.) Treat yourself to an item or two or three from The Container Store and you might actually get excited about that whole spring cleaning thing. Well, we can always hope, right?—Emily

Lindsey Erickson is back for part 2 of her great article on jewelry. In this months edition designer Lindsey shares her great tips and solutions for bead storage. She also walks us through steps to care for our precious gems and jewels. You can read all about it in our Boutique Cafe Chat forum – read article here. Be sure to leave Lindsey your comments and questions, she’s a wealth of information.

You can shop Lindsey Erickson’s creations here

Discover Bombay Bleu Mylilpixie has combined the “Charm” of Amy Butler’s fab fabric together with her amazing design skills to create this wondrous 3 pc. set. This set is a custom 2t-6 and the details speak for themselves. Simply stunning and the perfect set to wear on vacation.

Learn more about mylilpixie on their Me page, it’s gorgeous!