Micheal Jackson

In the wake of the untimely death of one of my absolute favorite artists of all time, I've been watching every music video and listening to every song that I can. I came across Earth Song yesterday and realized why this man, this icon, transcended the boundaries of culture, race, and age since he was a child. Despite the allegations, despite the physical transformation, rumors, etc...Michael Jackson still put himself on a world stage to incite change. Songs like "They Don't Care About Us", "Heal The World", "Man In The Mirror", and "Earth Song" are just examples of how this musician made art. His composition was on point for sure, his moves were in a league of their own, and each song pulled you into the moment in such a way that almost everyone I know could match a time in their life to a Michael Jackson song. But I think his ability and desire to bring attention to a host of issues like discrimination, violence, the environment, etc will be another reason we won't ever forget this artist. He will truly be missed but as I realized yesterday as my baby cousin, at 9 months old, started moving her little hands to the beat of his songs...he will never be forgotten.

Hammocks & High Tea in UK House & Garden

Phew...long title. Thank you to UK House & Gardens for featuring HHT so beautifully in their July 2009 issue. Click on the image to view larger.

Les Indiennes

I start everything with a visualization...everything. It's my method for getting exciting and even mundane projects off the ground. In my vision for the future of Hammocks & High Tea I get a virtual picture by looking at companies like Les Indiennes. Designer Mary Mulcahy has developed her collection from beautifully printed fabrics, to soft goods, to furniture. All with this undeniably chic, multicultural vibe. I'm loving the road I'm on, enjoying the organic (no pun) expansion, and learning that moving with the flow of the stream makes for the best, and most scenic, journey.

Creative mind vs Business mind

I'm sure many of you reading can agree that when you do something creative that happens to be a business, it can be difficult to choose between what you enjoy and what brings in the sales. I started Hammocks & High Tea with a small stationery collection because it was the most affordable way to introduce a brand (especially from a tiny NY space). It was a way to learn my voice, develop patterns, etc. Let me tell you...there is nothing more challenging than designing within a 4.25 x 5.5" space of white cover stock! So with each season I was able to introduce little items into my home goods category and coming July will offer an expanded collection, and the sale of each little notecard got me there. Amazing right? But the time came to decide what my strong points are in business and it's the fabric pieces and gifts items. So the creative mind suggests that I should make any and every thing I love while the business mind (and the tired body) says to make what sells the best. It's an interesting dilemma but certainly not one to complain about. So with the new goods launching in July I will diminish the screen printed note card line, expand the fabric line, expand the gift line (including notepads 'cause I just love 'em), and add a little extension of one of the above)...phew.
Image: Blind Embossed cards by Pinball Publishing via Paper Crave that makes me want to run right back to notecards because the thought of creating something so gorgeous just calls to me!

A little more...

of a sneak peek. Coral Reef tea towels (also available as napkins) and Waves 20" pillow. Officially launching in July. I'm working on streamlining the website a bit and merging the shop into my big cartel site to have built in order tracking, etc. I'm also launching another component of HHT for the holidays that I'm reeaaaallly excited about. Right now I'm researching and getting my info straight to launch the best product possible; everything good starts with research and a little first hand experience after all. What's taking up my days? Printing, shipping, research and packaging ideas, revamps, and design. Now where did I put my hat...

Hacienda Style

These images from design firm Hacienda Style have me packing my bags. Those tiles, smooth cement floors, and worn wood doors are some warm and familiar.

Packaging Design and Branding

I've been really racking my brain to create the most appealing, straight forward and just plain pretty packaging for some of my products. Namely the drawer liners and a sister product. See what I like above??...pattern, pattern, and bold color. These are what I find the most reflective of my brand. The problem? The drawer liners are already patterned and packaged in a clear tube. I'm getting closer but still trying to get just the right look. Creating great packaging/labels is no joke...kudos to all the talented folks who do it.

Images courtesy of The Dieline- i.e. the site I've lived on for the last week