Photo credit Brian McDaniel
“Ever wonder what the apartment of a professional organizer and true minimalist would look like?”
Check out the full preview for our upcoming feature in RVA’s famous blog, Dirty Richmond. So excited!!
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Upcoming Feature in Dirty Richmond!!
Photo credit Brian McDaniel
“Ever wonder what the apartment of a professional organizer and true minimalist would look like?”
Check out the full preview for our upcoming feature in RVA’s famous blog, Dirty Richmond. So excited!!
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Fellow Minimalist: Christie Thompson of Fibre Craft
Being a minimalist means something a little different to each person. To me, it’s not about a certain style — the aesthetic is just a result of the mentality. In my definition, minimalism is about finding happiness through eliminating the unnecessarium in life, therefore becoming the most true version of oneself.
For our new series “Fellow Minimalist”, I’ll be interviewing local Richmonders who are living life well — or “winning at life", as I like to say. They have found a way, often in spite of obstacles, to do what they love. Here, I share their secrets.
Christie Thompson is a 20-something working as the Marketing Director at BCWH Architects and simultaneously running her own hand-made shop. She’s also a veteran Minimalist writer!
How does organization play a role in your entrepreneurial success?
“I essentially juggle two full time jobs, so organization is a necessity. My side business, Fibre Craft, is my hobby and I love it — being well organized allows me to keep loving it (and hopefully keep growing it!)”
For our new series “Fellow Minimalist”, I’ll be interviewing local Richmonders who are living life well — or “winning at life", as I like to say. They have found a way, often in spite of obstacles, to do what they love. Here, I share their secrets.
Christie Thompson is a 20-something working as the Marketing Director at BCWH Architects and simultaneously running her own hand-made shop. She’s also a veteran Minimalist writer!
How does organization play a role in your entrepreneurial success?
“I essentially juggle two full time jobs, so organization is a necessity. My side business, Fibre Craft, is my hobby and I love it — being well organized allows me to keep loving it (and hopefully keep growing it!)”
Friday, April 13, 2012
Handmade RVA: Rare Bird
I’ve always had trouble accessorizing because it makes me feel cluttered (surprise). I love local artist Pauline Stanley’s work. It suits me well — minimal and delicate, goes with everything. I’ve already purchased several pieces and wear them constantly. She will be at the Bizarre Market at the RVA Street Fest this Saturday from noon to 6p selling her designs. You can also find her on Etsy here.
Our good friend Christie with Fibre Craft will also be at the market selling her handmade ties and bags!
Our good friend Christie with Fibre Craft will also be at the market selling her handmade ties and bags!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Gungho Guide
I’d like to present to you Richmond’s new Gungho Guide — “the definitive guide to where you should be.” From their new site (which just launched on Friday):
“GunghoGuides.com is a place to celebrate the best things we love about Richmond. We picked the top hundred or so places that we feel contribute to the pride of living in this city. We wanted to create a site that presents these unique experiences and JUST these experiences as places you absolutely SHOULD patronize.”
You can find info on food, museums, galleries, entertainment, apparel, beauty, retail and of course, events! We love the idea of consolidating all of this information in a city guide that’s easy (and fun!) to search through. And oh hey — Minimalist is a featured blog. Thanks GG! You can find their free pamphlet/map in participating locations around town.
Side note — Anne Marie told me that a random guy on the street asked her if she wrote for Minimalist and then gave us a big compliment. Thanks guy on street, we like you too!
“GunghoGuides.com is a place to celebrate the best things we love about Richmond. We picked the top hundred or so places that we feel contribute to the pride of living in this city. We wanted to create a site that presents these unique experiences and JUST these experiences as places you absolutely SHOULD patronize.”
You can find info on food, museums, galleries, entertainment, apparel, beauty, retail and of course, events! We love the idea of consolidating all of this information in a city guide that’s easy (and fun!) to search through. And oh hey — Minimalist is a featured blog. Thanks GG! You can find their free pamphlet/map in participating locations around town.
Side note — Anne Marie told me that a random guy on the street asked her if she wrote for Minimalist and then gave us a big compliment. Thanks guy on street, we like you too!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
thief & BANDIT
Today I stumbled upon an awesome local designer’s work — Amie Cunningham of thief & BANDIT. She makes these amazing multi-color/pattern braided fabric necklaces that are sure to be the statement piece of any outfit. I’m going to have to get my hands on one soon. I love wearing patterned scarves as a necklace-like accent piece, and this accessory creates a very similar effect. LOVE love love. Check out their Etsy shop here and become a fan on Facebook here.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Real Simple
If you enjoy reading Minimalist, you’ll probably love Real Simple. From organizing tips to fashion advice, the writers have the know-how re: keeping things simple (and real, of course). I’m always certain that my life is about to get 10% better each time the ’zine arrives in my mailbox. I’d say that’s a pretty good measure of its value.
Click here to subscribe and here to like on Facebook. Real Simple is currently running a 60% off cover price discount. Also, I received a 15% off The Container Store coupon in my most recent issue — awesome!
Click here to subscribe and here to like on Facebook. Real Simple is currently running a 60% off cover price discount. Also, I received a 15% off The Container Store coupon in my most recent issue — awesome!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Retro Glasses with a Heart
My friend recently sent me a link for Warby Parker, a new revolution in eyewear. As a four-eyed person, I dread dropping $300+ whenever I need a new pair of specs. WP offers beautifully crafted, vintage-inspired glasses for $95/pair with prescription lenses. That beats Lenscrafters any day of the week — not to mention how stylish and unique their designs are. On top of being chic and affordable, WP has a Buy a Pair, Give a Pair program — for every pair of glasses sold, they provide one to someone in need. I know where I’m getting my next set of frames!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
One Price Dry Cleaning
When I was in Woodbridge visiting my parents awhile back, I noticed a shopping center that had a $1.99 Cleaner. I asked my parents about it and they confirmed what I thought — any item is only $1.99 to dry clean. A shirt and a coat are the same price. What an awesome concept!
I’d had enough with my local cleaner charging almost as much as I’d paid for certain pieces to have them cleaned (especially dresses and jackets). I did a little research and found a one price dry cleaner here in Richmond! Park Avenue Cleaners, located at 4336 S Laburnum Ave, charge just over $2 per garment. They also have fast, next day service. I live in the Fan and it was about a ten minute drive up I-64 East. I waited until I had about five pieces to be cleaned and made the trip. It was well worth it! I probably saved between $30 and $50 — no joke. Give them a call for more information at (804) 226-1300.
This is a very democratic take on dry cleaning and I’m loving it. All fashion may not be created equally, but it’s treated as such here. I’m sure their simple pricing scheme brings in so much business that they can afford to charge so little. Excellent strategy.
I’d had enough with my local cleaner charging almost as much as I’d paid for certain pieces to have them cleaned (especially dresses and jackets). I did a little research and found a one price dry cleaner here in Richmond! Park Avenue Cleaners, located at 4336 S Laburnum Ave, charge just over $2 per garment. They also have fast, next day service. I live in the Fan and it was about a ten minute drive up I-64 East. I waited until I had about five pieces to be cleaned and made the trip. It was well worth it! I probably saved between $30 and $50 — no joke. Give them a call for more information at (804) 226-1300.
This is a very democratic take on dry cleaning and I’m loving it. All fashion may not be created equally, but it’s treated as such here. I’m sure their simple pricing scheme brings in so much business that they can afford to charge so little. Excellent strategy.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
$20 Haircuts!
...And I don’t mean from the Hair Cuttery.
This Sunday, September 19, from 10a to 3p, Salon Bleu is hosting a “cut-a-thon”, so to speak. Haircuts are only $20 (women’s are normally $50) and all proceeds will be donated to the Wayside Center for Popular Education. The ladies at Salon Bleu will be accepting cash or check only. Come on out and support a great cause! I’ve been getting my hair cut by Vildan at Salon Bleu for almost three years and she always does an amazing job. They are located at 604 N Belmont Ave in the Museum District. Find them on Facebook too!
This Sunday, September 19, from 10a to 3p, Salon Bleu is hosting a “cut-a-thon”, so to speak. Haircuts are only $20 (women’s are normally $50) and all proceeds will be donated to the Wayside Center for Popular Education. The ladies at Salon Bleu will be accepting cash or check only. Come on out and support a great cause! I’ve been getting my hair cut by Vildan at Salon Bleu for almost three years and she always does an amazing job. They are located at 604 N Belmont Ave in the Museum District. Find them on Facebook too!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Clothing Consignment
It’s almost time to pack up summer clothing and pull out the fall cardigans, scarves, hats, boots... I do love autumn fashion. With each seasonal change, I like to assess my wardrobe and decide which pieces will make the cut for another year. Going through my threads also allows me to see any fashion “gaps” so that I can spend money wisely filling in my wardrobe. For example — rather than purchasing ten new ruffled blouses (which I am apt to do), maybe I instead invest in a pair of black skinny jeans or a nice waist belt to tie together some existing pieces.
In any case, whatever doesn’t make the cut can either be donated or, better yet, consigned. I save consignment for “gently used” clothing, shoes and accessories and tend to donate my more “heavily loved” pieces to Diversity Thrift. Here is my top three list of women’s clothing consignment shops in Richmond. Each shop has a different niche, so read below to find yours. FYI, fall clothing consignment typically begins in August and runs through October when they switch to winter.
1. Clementine
In the heart of Carytown, Clementine offers young, hip women’s clothing, shoes and handbags on consignment along with new hand-picked jewelry and accessories. The shop has a boutique feel to it, and the merchandising is extremely well done. I love the simple use of recycled materials and hand-written tags (adorable). There is no consignor sign-up fee, but they do ask that you make an appointment to bring any items by. Clementine accepts brands such as American Apparel, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Elevenses, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Nanette Lepore, Seven and Theory — just to name a few. For those of you who know my style, my items tend to do very well at Clementine. I average about $30 to $50 per season on +/- five items (usually on the lower end of the brand list). It’s nice to have a little extra cash to put towards new clothing, or my social budget.
2. The Butterfly
While I don’t consign with The Butterfly, my organizing colleagues can’t say enough good things about this shop. It’s their top choice for mid-level brands that they consign for their clients. While Clementine has a young and hip focus, The Butterfly stays fashion forward with a more conservative and “grown up” vibe. There is a one-time $15 consignor fee and they work by appointment only. The shop is located in Richmond’s near West End at 5726 Patterson Ave. Contact them at (804) 288-4700 to set up an appointment.
3. Baggio
Located at 9734 Gayton Rd ten minutes from Short Pump, Baggio is Richmond’s premiere designer label consignment shop. Norma Santamaria, Baggio’s owner and a friend of mine, just launched an awesome new website so be sure to click the link above and check it out. The lovely shop feels like a high end boutique that you might find in New York City. They accept brands such as Armani, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Oscar de la Renta and Prada. There is a $20 annual consignor fee — check the website for other specific consignment policies.
For kid’s clothing, I recommend Kid to Kid. Any items that don’t sell with Clementine usually go to Plato’s Closet. Both of these shops buy rather than consign, so you get immediate cash for any items they accept. No appointments needed. Unfortunately men’s consignment has not caught on in Richmond to my knowledge.
Consignment is super easy and rewarding in my experience — definitely give it a try if you haven’t already! Also, while you’re dropping off your stuff at these shops, be sure to look around. It’s hard for me to leave Clementine without a cute pair of earrings (at the least) and Baggio obviously has an amazing selection of designer threads and accessories. Consignment is not only great for your wallet (usually 1/3 to 1/2 of retail value) but buying used is good for the environment as well!
In any case, whatever doesn’t make the cut can either be donated or, better yet, consigned. I save consignment for “gently used” clothing, shoes and accessories and tend to donate my more “heavily loved” pieces to Diversity Thrift. Here is my top three list of women’s clothing consignment shops in Richmond. Each shop has a different niche, so read below to find yours. FYI, fall clothing consignment typically begins in August and runs through October when they switch to winter.
1. Clementine
In the heart of Carytown, Clementine offers young, hip women’s clothing, shoes and handbags on consignment along with new hand-picked jewelry and accessories. The shop has a boutique feel to it, and the merchandising is extremely well done. I love the simple use of recycled materials and hand-written tags (adorable). There is no consignor sign-up fee, but they do ask that you make an appointment to bring any items by. Clementine accepts brands such as American Apparel, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Elevenses, Kate Spade, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Nanette Lepore, Seven and Theory — just to name a few. For those of you who know my style, my items tend to do very well at Clementine. I average about $30 to $50 per season on +/- five items (usually on the lower end of the brand list). It’s nice to have a little extra cash to put towards new clothing, or my social budget.
2. The Butterfly
While I don’t consign with The Butterfly, my organizing colleagues can’t say enough good things about this shop. It’s their top choice for mid-level brands that they consign for their clients. While Clementine has a young and hip focus, The Butterfly stays fashion forward with a more conservative and “grown up” vibe. There is a one-time $15 consignor fee and they work by appointment only. The shop is located in Richmond’s near West End at 5726 Patterson Ave. Contact them at (804) 288-4700 to set up an appointment.
3. Baggio
Located at 9734 Gayton Rd ten minutes from Short Pump, Baggio is Richmond’s premiere designer label consignment shop. Norma Santamaria, Baggio’s owner and a friend of mine, just launched an awesome new website so be sure to click the link above and check it out. The lovely shop feels like a high end boutique that you might find in New York City. They accept brands such as Armani, Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Carolina Herrera, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Oscar de la Renta and Prada. There is a $20 annual consignor fee — check the website for other specific consignment policies.
For kid’s clothing, I recommend Kid to Kid. Any items that don’t sell with Clementine usually go to Plato’s Closet. Both of these shops buy rather than consign, so you get immediate cash for any items they accept. No appointments needed. Unfortunately men’s consignment has not caught on in Richmond to my knowledge.
Consignment is super easy and rewarding in my experience — definitely give it a try if you haven’t already! Also, while you’re dropping off your stuff at these shops, be sure to look around. It’s hard for me to leave Clementine without a cute pair of earrings (at the least) and Baggio obviously has an amazing selection of designer threads and accessories. Consignment is not only great for your wallet (usually 1/3 to 1/2 of retail value) but buying used is good for the environment as well!