Hi Boutique Cafe Members,
I’m sneaking in a quick family holiday for the next few days. It’s our only chance this summer to do something with all our kiddos. If you have questions or concerns you can email me and I will try to check my email, but I’m not sure how the internet reception will be for me. Any ad submissions for this week need to be in to me by tomorrow am or they can’t go up until late next week when I return.

I’ll miss you all, but will do my best to pop in when I can. Thanks gals for holdin’ down the fort!

Have a fantastic Holiday this week everyone!
Daria
The Spontaneous Vacation Mama

Glitz, Glamour, Pettiskirts and Poof - the designs of PNC by Jodi Hattery are jam packed with all the frills, that make it deliciously fun to be a girl! Indulge in her Fashion Show this week.

“I had two year old and 6 month old boys and was expecting my third little boy Nathanial. When he surprised us by becoming Nataley instead, I went overboard in the frill factor. Whether it be limited edition girls clothing or our scrumptious couture costumes, the frill factor is still what is behind each of my designs today. I love little girls looking and feeling like little princesses. I don’t want to sell an outfit that goes without notice. I want to sell an outfit that will make the little girl squeal with delight when she puts it on the first time, and giggles to come from everyone that sees her.” - Jodi

Shop MrsHattery’s amazing creations for your little gal in her eBay listings. You can also Shop PNC Boutique online at their Website. **Please allow time for the show to load. Fashion Shows are in Quicktime format, a free download here.

Swab the Decks! Here’s a Pirate dress that will be the envy of the high seas.

You might have to walk the plank it’s so cute! Created by FullCircleDesigns in custom size 2-6!

But you don’t need a map to discover this, you only need the link -

View ye Treasure here »

You’d think by that title this Daily Dish would be about the latest butt-lifting jeans, but I’m sorry to say it’s not. Actually, I’m really not that sorry because I’m just as excited about the Joovy Caboose as my own caboose in a pair of Sevens or Hudsons!

The Joovy Caboose is a compact solution to the big problem of strolling more than one child around at a time. I’ve been looking for a stroller to replace my 8-year-old limo-style Graco double stroller and I think I’ve found it. The Caboose is quite possible the most compact, maneuverable tandem on the market and utilizes a patented stand-on design. What most caught my eye was the word “compact,” something I definitely look for in a double stroller.

I received the Caboose in orange and it is definitely sleek and stylin’. Nathan and I pulled the stroller out of the box and had it assembled within minutes””and we barely glanced at the instruction booklet. While Nathan took it for a test spin around the house I checked out how to attach a carrier with the universal car seat adapter. Yes! Who knew this compact (had to use that word again) tandem accommodates an infant carrier as well? So cool! You’ve also got a generous removable canopy, large storage basket, child tray with cup holder, and a 5-point harness in the front. And I made sure to check out the padding on the rear seat (nicely padded), as I know most toddler get tired of standing after a few laps around the mall. Though the rear seat only has a 3-point harness, it is also recommended for children over 2 ½ years, so a 3-point should keep your toddler safe (and if you’re worried he might wiggle his way out, try a little super glue”¦okay, I’m totally kidding”¦sort of”¦)

Read the rest of this entry »

Looking for something a bit out of the ordinary? Etsy is the place to discover some truly unique gifts. This “Atomic symbol for Silver” pendant is a great gift for the gal who fancies the Periodic Table of the Elements - or maybe just loves wearing silver!
Check it out here »

SavvyMom.ca is holding their “Momprenuer of the Year Awards” this summer open to Canadian momprenuers. At the insistence of several sweet Boutique Cafe members, I have thrown my name into the hat and would love to have your vote for this honor. The first prize is valued at $18,000 worth of cash and prizes to help grow and boost your business, this would be a huge help to Boutique Cafe in continuing to bring more quality content to our listenership.

Thank you for taking a moment to vote for Boutique Cafe Cast your Ballot here ».

Only two hours to go on this adorable “Jack and The Beanstalk” set by *pouty*princess*. The 5 piece is sized 3t-4t and is full of whimsical fairy tale fun.
viewtheauction

Daria takes you on an excursion to The Calgary Women’s Show. Experience “A Fair to Remember” as we meet with cool vendors, and try interesting products.

*Please allow time for the show to load. Movie requires Quicktime, available as a free download. Boutique Cafe is best viewed in the Safari web browser for Windows and Mac. Safari is simple, elegant and 2x faster than Internet Explorer - that’s sweet! Grab it today.

There’s something so fancy and fun about the petti-set from Mrshattery. If you’re searching for an outfit with flourish and verve, be sure to scope out these custom cuties. The Pink and Brown combo is just so yummy and this darling set is modeled by adorable Kristi!

Designer patterns & “how to” eBooks at YouCanMakeThis.com

When we talk about Daily Dish must-haves we often talk about the latest diaper bags, baby apparel, jewelry, and fabulous gifts. Today’s must-have may not be featured in the latest fashion mags but it is still a must-have for Daily Dish readers.

With natural disasters happening left and right it’s more important than ever to be prepared. Sure, you’ve got your flashlights, candles, and evacuation plan, but do you have an easy, affordable, and non-perishable way to feed your family? The Ready Project wants to help you do just that. The company’s missions is to “leave no home unprepared” and “provide superior emergency products at affordable prices.”

By offering affordable, long lasting gourmet food storage starting at under $25 a month, The Ready Project does just that. Their Ready Food Supply buckets are shipped to your home monthly and include easy-to-cook meals for your family. What I love about their food supply is the easy-to-store buckets, which make them perfect for storing under beds and in cupboards. But does the food taste good?

Read the rest of this entry »

Since Megan brought up the handbag challenge in Hot Moms’ Fashion Forward Friday last week, I thought this week would be a good time to organize those bags!

1. Dump everything out and start fresh.

2. Throw away old receipts, gum wrappers, etc. that are not needed

3. Put the necessities back in easy to find places…wallet, keys, lipstick, sunglasses, etc.

4. Plan ahead. What items do you often need but never have on hand when away from home? Find those items and put them where you can find them….band aids, handwipes/sanitizer, tissues, tweezers, extra binkie, sunscreen, etc.

Not enough room for all the necessities of daily life? Perhaps a shopping trip is in order! Shhhh….don’t tell DH!!!

Now for fun, tell us what you carry around in your handbag!!! JOIN the Challenge »

Sincere congratulations to Amy the owner of one of our favorite websites, Journal Modiste. Amy and her husband Brian welcomed their 6th child into their family! Molly Katherine (Molly Kate) weighs in at 8lb 9oz of gorgeous girl!

Best wishes to your family from everyone at Boutique Cafe!

Nothing like combining great style with a great cause! I can’t remember exactly where I came across TOMS Shoes but I’m glad I did. I’ve been excited about sharing TOMS with our Daily Dish readers ever since I learned about the company behind the comfy shoes.

“Inspired by a traditional Argentine shoe and challenged by the continent’s poverty and health issues [Blake Mycoskie] created TOMS with a singular mission: To make life more comfortable.” But TOMS isn’t just making life more comfortable for you; the company is also making life more comfortable for others. For every TOMS shoe purchased a pair is donated to a child in need. I know no other shoe company doing this much to help disadvantaged children around the world.

I received a pair of Olive TOMS and absolutely love their simple yet comfortable design. They are ultra lightweight and perfect for summer! With some seriously fun designs, including artistic limited editions, TOMS are a nice change from the ol’ pair of flip flops. With a variety of colors and styles for men, women, and children, you can outfit your whole family with TOMS. And while your family is sporting their TOMS around town, you can feel good about supporting a worthy cause. I like to think of it as a “buy one, give one free” deal, and that’s quite possibly the best deal around!

So make some time today to visit the TOMS website and purchase a pair of TOMS shoes. Remember, you won’t be the only one walking in style. –Emily

* Promotion! TOMS Shoes is offering free domestic shipping this summer when you order online. Simply enter code “ALICIAC.” Making a purchase has never made such a difference!

Megan and Amelia are in the House and joining in the podcasting fun. Megan brings current Boutique News, and Amelia surprises with a podcast version of our popular Fashion Forward Friday Challenge. To participate please link back to this podcast url and blog your reply to the Challenge. All comments may be placed in the shownotes, please be sure to add the link to your blog.

The Boutique Cafe Summer Shopping Guide is now live with hot deals and promo codes to help you beat the summer heat! Our Amy Butler Giveaway sign up for the Newsletter for a chance to win a Betty Shopper Bag & signed card from Amy herself! Winner will be drawn on the 25th so hurry.

The Winner of the SavvyMommy gift basket is: Shari from gigglegirls. Congratulations Shari to you and your brand new baby. Be sure to visit the SavvyMommy site.

This yummy refashioned necklace by Moppetsclosets is worth a peek! It’s so sweet with a classic appeal and timeless eleglance. It’s sure to be worn over and over again by your little sweetie! - Megan

What’s a summer vacation without piling the entire family in the van and heading off! In this case, the van is a classic! jam*clothing*co has the perfect set for your little man! Love the color combinations and the extra little details.  

-Megan

I was so inspired by the post Amelia did on her blog for wordless Wednesday yesterdy, that I wanted to do my name too. I hand picked the letters that I wanted, but if you want something fun just vist this site and type in your name! It’s that easy, and it’s Free! )

What a fun way to enhance your blog, website or auctions. Just type in your name or phrase and you’re stylin’

If your little one is involved in pageants this dress might be that little bit of Frosting you’re in search of. Funky polka dots and frills all over, with a contrast of soft pink and green. Made by 3sweetps*boutique this casual wear takes the cake. Check it out here »

My son Dylan showed me this neat site this morning where you can learn to tie your kids shoes in really funky ways! It’s quite cool to see how many methods there are for lacing them up so I’m passing it along for you:

Lace em’ Up! »

Who knows, maybe some of those cool lacing methods will soon be seen in boutique corsets all over ebay now Just remember who predicted it!! WINK

Designer Toni Hamel is inspired by The Sweet Escape this week with her tribute to Sophia’s favorite song. OOAK size 5/6 and includes “Sweet Escape” Embroidered BLINGED OUT Zoe Tee, Ruched Hem Pants with Ruffled Gauze underlay, 2 Bow Bling Clippies. If you need a Sweet Escape, turn up your speakers and visit her auction.

What’s the new Journal Modiste launch all about?? REFASHION! Designers were challenged to use vintage or new items and “repurpose” them to make something new. If you haven’t checked out Journal Modiste before be sure to swing by their incredible site. And indulge this week in all that is Refashioned for you! - Daria

If you have a “great explorer” or “Grandma’s little girl” then you need to check out the mini tee’s selection of fun tees and onesies.

The mini tee offers 100% cotton t-shirts (sizes 6m to 4T) and 100% cotton baby rib onesies (sizes 6m 24m) for both boys and girls. With phrases such as “my daddy loves me,” “who’s your caddy?” and “drama queen” you’re sure to find the perfect mini tee for your mini me. I received the “”¦just like Dad” boy’s tee, and it definitely fits in more ways than one! And I couldn’t help but relate to the “what does this button do?” tee (by the way, where did that remote go?).

With busy little ones and busy, mud-pie-making summer days you can never have enough t-shirts. And with humorous tees from the mini tee, you may actually survive a second helping of those delicious muddy treats! ““Emily

My son Joshy has a few issues with the dark. He’s 5 but has a hard time sleeping without a light on. Recently I found a great solution to help him catch his zzzzzzz’s without having lighting on all night long. It’s called the MOBI TykeLight.

The sweet glowing friend comes in six different colors and is shaped like a little guy. He has a rechargeable base that you can place him on throughout the day, and when your child is off to bed they can pick up their buddy and lay him next to them (or even cuddle). On the bottom of your buddy is a button for Dim and Bright modes so he helps them settle down and feel comfortable. Joshy took his on a sleepover to his Nan and Pa’s house one night, he was happy to report that he read a book under the covers with the glow from his TykeLight.

The MOBI TykeLight is really well made and packaged with care and style. Each friend is made of Impact Resistant plastic and has no exposed contacts. He will stay illuminated up to 10 hours on a single charge. The Tyke is made to fit young hands and he’s also safe and modern looking. For the family needing some precious sleep, the Mobi TykeLight might just light up your life. - Daria

If you’re heading to the beach this summer, or just want to look like you’re on a tropical excursion, check out the Hula Girl bag by Sew Gracious. Not only is the bag “Hula-rrific” but it also incorporates Amy Butler fabric. Take it to the beach, use it as a cool diaper bag and more. This bag was made for summer lovin’! - Daria

This week’s challenge is an easy one! Simply pick three things each day you want to accomplish. Write them down the night before or first thing in the morning. You can either schedule them into your day or do them when you realize you have a few spare minutes. Just make sure you do them before going to bed each night.

For example, my list today is to:

1. Fold and put away laundry
2. Vacuum
3. Work with the girls to tidy up their bedroom

My girls are going to put stars on the calendar each day I accomplish my three tasks. I’m going to try to include them in one of the three each day. Knowing they are watching and learning is a huge motivator for me to stick to it!

OK…so what three things are YOU going to accomplish today?

Join in Susan’s Challenge of the Week here »

Lolapop jewelry offers a wonderful selection of tasty treats for you and your little princess. Using only the “finest ingredients to make your special jewelry treat,” Lolapop Boutique is definitely a must-have stop if you’re looking for the perfect bracelet, necklace or earrings.

I received samples of three of Lolapop’s beautiful handcrafted bracelets. The bracelets arrived packaged in the sweetest little organza-lined gift boxes embroidered with flowers. I found myself admiring the packaging before I could even admire the unique jewelry inside! As cute as the packaging was it was no match for what were definitely “sweet treats” inside. From the fun and whimsical tank bracelet (perfect for your little guy) to the red flower bracelet (perfect for your little girl) to the vintage silver bracelet (perfect for you), you’ll need that sweet packaging to catch the drool over these yummy goodies.

Lolapop jewelry only uses quality materials, including sterling silver, one-of-a-kind beads, high-quality gemstones, vintage Czech glass, and genuine Austrian Swarovski crystals. With such care and craftsmanship these sweet treats are a “tasteful” addition to any jewelry collection. ““Emily

* Promotion! Lolapop is offering 10% off and free shipping for Daily Dish readers. Simply enter code “ddish” at checkout; offer expires July 31^st, 2007.

Euro is so super sweet in the design stylings of Gaby, for Janea Princess. Gaby creates incredible must-wear clothing for little girls that is purely scrumptious. Enjoy her feature this week on Boutique Cafe!

“Hi my name is Gaby and I live in Northern Germany, married to a Danish musican and mother of 4 wonderful children (the youngest is my little princess Janea). My beloved mother was a seamstress and taugh me a lot …… I started sewing again when my sweet baby girl was born about 6 years ago….I was sooo inspired by this little girl and LOVING pink and lots of romantic ruffles..LOL:))..I love my designs because they show my passion for different styles and fabric (romatic, funky, cool, shabby..) and I LOVE to combine euro fabric and pattern to American style….It’s amazing to look, at what American woman are creating out of the European patterns ..its such a different style!
My other passion is DRAWING and I drew all the first Farbenmix pictures….after drawing for smartneedle embroidery for awhile, I started my own embroidery website and love it so much, its funny to create all new kind of embroidery, buttons and appliques…” - smiles Gaby

Shop Gaby’s gorgeous designs eBay listings. You can read about Gaby and her many interests on her own Blog, and find beautiful embroidery on her website. **Please allow time for the show to load. Fashion Shows are in Quicktime format, a free download here.

I’m taking over our FFF today as guest “host” while our fashion guru Amelia is away and tending to family. Today’s topic is all about BAGS! What’s the latest trend? Whose’s sporting what type of bag and more importantly what do YOU LOVE and carry? Snatch up those cameras ladies, we want to see and know what your favorites are! Come over and chat it up with other bag ladies! - Megan

Welcome to the wonderful world of Allison Strine!

Confession: I am wild about interesting art and funky jewelry, I also enjoy when people stop and take notice. These loves come together in the artistry of Allison Strine mixed media/collage artisan. Her creations have won awards and appeared in national arts magazines, now many of them grace her shop on Etsy.

I was lucky enough to receive one of her coveted Lady Bird necklaces to review, the charm depicts a loving Mommy bird and all her little birds (4 baby birds for me). On the back are the words “She Loves Being a Mom”. The charm is so interesting and unique that it’s truly a great conversation piece, I’ve had so many people stop me when I wear it and ask where I got it. SWEET!

What you’ll discover when you take a closer look at Allison’s art is alot of depth in her pieces, it’s as though they are layer upon layer until she gets the look just right. Whenever I wear it I can’t help but smile and think “you bet I love being a mom!”.

Allison offers a huge selection of her uninhibited and funky art in several mediums including necklaces, cards, prints for your home, license plate charms and more. I invite you to take a stroll through her Etsy Store and indulge in her unique perspective. If you’re on the hunt for something special with color and movement, you’ll enjoy the artistry of Allison Strine. - Daria

**SPECIAL PROMOTION : Mention Boutique Cafe and receive Free Shipping within the US on your purchases this month.