Shopping with Shelby

A Classic Christmas List for Good Little Girls & Boys

2 · Dec 17, 2018 ·

I catch a lot of grief from others when I ask them not to by my girls more toys, I voice my particularities about the clothing they wear and really any object that is introduced into my girls lives. I’ve been accused of not being fun, being too uptight and even ruining Christmas. I’m not going to say that those comments don’t sting, however we have a way that we’ve chosen to raise our children, to protect their innocence and childhood, to keep them little as long as possible and let their imaginations run free. I don’t believe you need battery operated toys to learn. I don’t think you need bright flashy plastic colors to keep their interest. And I don’t believe their toy boxes need to be overflowing, refreshing the clutter each holiday season. It’s okay to live a simple life full of creativity.

As I type this, girls are playing with blocks on the floor. They’ve sitting there for the last hour or more, building vacuums, towers and counting. Just counting. Before that, they found enjoyment from a brown paper bag. So simple.

I was trying to put into exact words my philosophy when it comes to spoiling my children, how I choose toys and treats and have really been struggling. I try to share the message of appreciating what they have, wanting them to learn to take care of what they’re given because I’m not going to just by them something new if they don’t take care of the previous item. But when they’re gifted cheap plastic toys and items that aren’t really built to last, it’s somewhat hard to get that message across. And then my anxiety arises about the mess and the clutter and storage issues and I can’t help but wonder if in the long run any of these items are actually bringing any joy or just feeding our greedy consumer habits?

Someone summed it up for me, how I feel about it all, and unfortunately I cannot remember who I saw post this so I’m unable to give them credit – but the quote was this “Maybe if I give them heirloom quality toys I won’t mind the mess so much.” Kindred spirits right there. I seek classic items and simplicity, I don’t need frills I just was innocent toys that are meant to last. Do you think anyone will find today’s toys in an antique shop 50 years from how? I think the landfill is more likely. I know it sounds dramatic but there is a sweetness and something that soothes me by thinking this way. I’ve heard stories of how girls were given dolls just to practice being a mom, learning how to care for her little one, sewing clothes, etc. Yes, that’s old fashioned but it was purposeful play and created healthy habits. If you agree with all of those above who would rather give me grief and think I’m a little off my rocker, so be it. Regardless of your view, we’re all just trying to do the best for each of our families.

Never the less, here are a few of my favorite things I’ve either seen this holiday season or have purchased in years past to keep them little, let their imagination thrive and have fun being a girl (or boy – there’s fun on this list for them too!).

Outdoor Play:

There’s nothing better in the summertime than soaking up the sunshine and discovering nature. Skinned knees, tan lines and big bites are the sign of a summer well spent.

1 Radio Flyer Tri-Cycle. Santa brought this pastel pink treasure to use a few years back and now it’s been passed down to daughter number 2. It’s a classic and still fits my almost 4 year old great. But if you’re looking for something slightly more mature, I heard that Santa might be upgrading to this classic little cruiser this year.

2 & 3 Winter Wagon & Tandam Pull Sled. Of course I love a classic wooden number over the more modern plastic ones. These are both from LL Bean and I wish I would have seen them before I finished my Christmas shopping. I was just thinking how nice it would have been when we were out doing our holiday open houses downtown with the girls.

4 Retro Scooter. I think this little number is a little pricy but so cute. I love the classic clean look and the sweetness that I picture with a little girl perched on top.

5 Moulin Roty Botanist Kit. Let your little once be a scientist! While we don’t have this kit, we have a couple other Moulin Roty pieces and I love them. They’re so classic and fun. This one screams “get outside & explore!”

Jammies

Do you remember getting clothing as a kid? There were some people I dreaded opening presents from because I just knew it was going to be clothes. Gradually I outgrew that, I remember the year I got my first pair of stirrup pants from my grandma. I think that was the turning point for it all.

Jammies I feel like are the exception. My girls love pajamas. By 5:00pm on school nights they’re both asking if they can change into their pa’namas (as my 3 year old calls them).

6 7 & 8 Plaid Nightgown, Fair Isle Pajamas & Clara Christmas Gown. I love these three options because they’re classic Christmas that extends into the entire winter season. I don’t like to gift things that will be out of season by the time you gift them. The plaid nightgown also has a long pant option as well as a matching boys set, which is super cute if you like the matching jammie look. The Fair Isle ones are gender neutral which makes them perfect for mix and match or hand me downs from cousins and big sisters. Sizes are limited and selling fast, so multiple options are necessary.

9 Cozy Critter Robe. We have one of these and just purchased a second. It’s a fun way to let your kids’ personality shine while still keeping them subtle. Options are kitties, unicorn or a shark hood.

10-13 If you don’t live in a freezing climate or are just wanting to get ready for spring, I love these options. I’m always a fan of floral patterns and my girls are too. Big Dreams Navy Floral PJ Set. Ruffle Floral PJ Dress. Ruffle Short PJ Set. Blue Gingham PJ Set.

Fun Toy for Nice Girls & Boys

14 Moulin Roty Doctor Kit. This kit is ridiculously cute. Wooden instruments and a picturesque carrying case. My girls love this case but it would be perfect for a boy as well.

15 Oskar & Ellen Tea Set. Willa received this quilted set a couple years ago for Christmas and it was the first thing she opened, I secretly wished it would be her last. She immediately love it and 2 years later it is still so loved. We have a couple other pieces from this line as well and each one is as cute as the last.

16 Lincoln Logs. The most timeless gift. I usually hate gifts that have a million little pieces but I feel like these would change my tune.

17 Kitchen Utensils. Nothing screams imaginative play like kitchenware. My girls love having pieces that look like mommy’s. There are so many fun options out there, Pottery Barn, Kidkraft, adorable aprons and more.

18 Maileg Mice. Have you seen these matchbox mice? I think they’re adorable. My girls have so much, so I’ve resisted purchasing but with all the option, I’m not sure how long I can resist. Look at this little ballerina one!

19 Kids Concept Cash Register. My girls wanted a cash register last year and so I bought a really cute wooden one from Crate & Kids. However, this year I stumbled across this one which is even cuter – look at that little card reader! Kids Concept has some adorable little wooden toys.

20 Elsa Inspired Dress. Disclaimer, I have not actually ever ordered anything from this website but I’m sure that will change soon. My girls are obsessed with Elsa and Ana. The amount of dress up clothes they have is getting a little out of hand but that doesn’t seem to stop one little 6 year old from dreaming. And she dreams of being Elsa. I on the other hand, am having an issue with all the customs and their faux sequins looking like they belong on something other than a 6 year old. This one, however, may change my mind. Elsa dreams while still looking like my sweet baby girl and this Rapunzal one is the cutest ever.

I hope this helps you holiday shopping but remember – its not about the present but more imporantly, your presence (so cliche, but so true). Also, these are not affiliate links, just items that I’ve stumbled across in my shopping or pieces that we have and love.

As far as holiday shipping, just a reminder that Christmas Eve is one week from today! So hurry up and finish your shopping! Alex and Alexa (the Kids Concept toys) says today is the last day to order for guarenteed Christmas delivery. Maisonette (the Moulin Roty Botanist Kit) will no longer guarentee delivery before Christmas (but that doesn’t mean it won’t arrive). You have a couple days left on the other items but make haste, items sell out fast.

5 Perfect Gifts for Your Flower Loving Friends

0 · Dec 21, 2016 ·

Christmas is only 4 days away. I can scarcely believe it! I thought I was so ahead of the game this year, I had all of my personal shopping done and gifts wrapped by December 5th. It seemed like I was right on track. But December has once again sped past and here I am, again, trying to send out a few last minute holiday cards and notes of joy. It seems like there’s always just one or two little things that you need to finish…

Photography: Samantha James Photography

So if you’re like me and have a flower loving friend that you’ve yet to find the perfect gift for – fear not, I’m sharing some of my very favorite gifts I’ve ever given or received and I think they’ll love them too.

Flower Books

People who love flowers are very visual and we love books with pretty pictures. Not only are they great for personal reference but they also look really lovely on your coffee table. My two personal favorites are Bringing Nature Home: Floral Arrangements Inspired by Nature and The Flower Recipe Book.

Botanical Prints

I love botanical prints and have so many favorite artists. But I think my favorites are from Wildfield Paper Co. Her work is so real, her attention to detail and the way she uses color just blows me away.

Esther Clark Botanical Calendar

I have some of Esther’s prints hanging in my kitchen and they’re so beautiful. Her botanical calendar is just the same – only there are 12 gorgeous images to fall in love with.

Floret Flower 2017 Planner

With tips for planting, harvesting and growing – this lovely little planner is perfect for those of us who refuse to make everything digital and use an online calendar. Floret Farms also has a book that is now available for pre-order, which would make another great gift.

Florist Tool Belt

The florist tool belt from Wheeler Munroe. This is a life saving product. My husband got me one last year for my birthday and I think it might be my favorite present I’ve ever received. I stopped wasting so much of my time going “where did I put my clippers??” and now always have my clippers, scissors, cell phone and usually a pen close by. Plus, she’s pretty awesome to work with.

Happy Shopping!

This is a non-sponsored post with product images borrowed from each individual product page. Direct links can be found in each of the descriptions above.

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Shopping with Shelby: Black Friday 2014

0 · Dec 1, 2014 ·

Hi Friends!! Did you have a fabulous holiday weekend? I for one did, however I’d like to chat about this whole traditional thanksgiving feast, who planned this menu? Where’s the chocolate? Move over mashed potatoes and stuffing, I could certainly find some more favorable side dishes. None the less, my weekend included these feasting favorites and then was followed by pie and shopping. Lots of shopping.

Photo: Ashley Slater Photography | Pie: Ed Dunneback & Girls Farm

It’s tradition for my mother and me to burn the midnight oil and head out in the wee hours of the night to do a little holiday shopping. We’re they type of people who are constantly on the prowl for a good deal. However, I must say that I was sorely disappointed that stores chose to open at such early hours on Thanksgiving. As someone who spent many years forced to work during the holiday, I always found myself so jealous of those who were with the ones they love. Because of this, I felt extreme sympathy for these workers and could not bring myself to shop on Thanksgiving night, so I had patience and headed out around 4:00am Friday morning. Twelve hours later we started our trek back home with a full car and much emptier wallets.

I’ve been asked about the fun in Black Friday shopping and the best places to shop. While I know everyone’s approach is a little different, I think the unexpected deals give the most thrills. Sure, I scour the ads on Thanksgiving Day, look at the leaked ads via the internet in the weeks prior to heading out and even map out an action plan. But my go-to’s are always Macy’s and Target, two of my favorite shopping locations regardless of the occasion. After that is when we begin to travel through the mall, making our way from store to store and loving the window signs proudly displaying 40-50% savings off the entire store, including clearance. Straight to those clearance racks I go!

This year, no surprise, Macy’s brought me the best bargains and today I’m still on the lookout for Cyber Monday steals. Did you find any great deals?

Tackling the Thrift Store

0 · Apr 10, 2014 ·

My last couple days have been filled with thrift store shopping… which I absolutely love! The thrill of the hunt gets me every time. And just because something is cheap, doesn’t mean I can’t find it cheaper. I might just take a little too much pride in scoring a great deal. These golden pots were a thrifty steal… can’t wait to fill them with blooms!

I went to a total of 8 stores to score the number of little pots I needed for my client’s next project. I realize not everyone has that much time (that’s why you hire me!), so I want to share a little strategy with you about thrift store shopping, because not all stores are created equal.

So, how should you tackle the thrifty madness?

My first piece of advice – steer away from the “name brand” or chain thrift stores. Goodwill may have the name, but it doesn’t deliver the goods. Ditto to Salvation Army. For the most part, I don’t waste my time, at least not if I’m looking for vintagy and décor type items. Clothing might be another story. But these stores I feel are over-shopped, so you have to be there the instant something is donated to snatch it up. And even then, I’m not always willing to pay their prices.

Look for less known stores, which are typically less shopped and I usually score better deals. In Grand Rapids there’s a Bethany Thrift Store or the Pine Rest Thrift Store – proceeds go to each of these organizations, and while they’re still located on the main hub of Grand Rapids, people know less about them which benefits me greatly.

Secondly, know the difference between a thrift store and antique store. That sounds obvious, but with the turn “vintage” coming into play, this line has become clouded. Places are popping up with titles such as estate sale warehouses. Some are gold mines other, not so much. Stores like this carry items ranging anywhere from collectable antiques to shampoo and Beanie Babies. Places that claim to cater more to antique collectors are generally more expensive than those with more of a flea market sales pitch.

Stores like these also tend to have separate booths and not all booths are created equal either. Booths are owned by different vendors, who all having different items and pricing strategy. And occasionally a booth or two might be offering additional discounts, so pay attention to those hand-written signs.

No matter what the store, I recommend shopping on week days. Usually there are a few less people milling about the store, which means I don’t have to make the split second buying decision. There’s nothing worse than going back to grab your treasure, only to find someone else bought it out from underneath you. But check their store hours, some have certain days of the week that they aren’t open or they may close earlier than your typical retailers.

Bring along your imagination along for the ride! Items that look like junk when thrown together with other junk might actually be cool in the right setting. Try to envision pieces in your home or with your event décor. And if the price is right, paint can go a long way. Love the shape of a vase but not the color – spray paint is your best friend! And that ugly chair over there can be reupholstered for much less than buying new. Don’t be afraid to get creative.

Any other tips or tricks? I’d love to hear your thrifting strategies!

Shopping with Shelby: Vintage Plus More “Vintage Wedding”

0 · Mar 4, 2014 ·

Hey lovelies, want to go shopping? There’s a new vintage shop in town that is just too cute! Vintage Plus More is located on 29^th Street in Grand Rapids – which is dangerously close to all of my shopping hubs, meaning I might just be stopping in there quite a bit!

The shop has been open about six months now and has started hosting monthly events. This month’s event is all about vintage weddings and I’m so excited to announce that I will have a part! Join me, as well as Joan from Merci Beaucoup Floral and American Honey Repurposed Furniture as we show you how to perfectly style and coordinate your next vintage party. Plus a fashion show full of vintage dresses which I personally cannot wait to see!

Thursday, March 13^th (from 6:30 – 8:00) would be the perfect night to come and see this new store, have a couple of treats and get some tips on styling and planning your wedding. Can’t wait to see you there!!

This is just one of the adorable booths within the shop. I snagged this picture from their Facebook page, which you need to be sure to check out to stay up to date on details around their Vintage Wedding Event as well as new treasures being added to the shop!

Vintage Plus More “Vintage Wedding Event”

2455 29^th Street SE

Grand Rapids, Michigan 49512

(616) 528-5998(616) 528-5998(616) 528-5998

Thursday, March 13^th 6:30-8:00 pm

Shopping with Shelby: Macy’s

0 · Dec 11, 2013 ·

This new series of posts has been in the works for a while now, well, at least they’ve been an inner dialog running through my head (as so many of my posts are). I get asked extremely frequently where I found things, what antique stores I shop at and asked for the story behind certain objects in my home, as well as pieces that I use in some of my events.

Now anyone that truly knows me, knows that I am a huge bargain shopper and even somewhat of a cheapskate. But the fact of the matter is, I like nice things, I like things to be pretty but I don’t have an unlimited budget to make it all happen. And I would also like to credit my father for my frugalness. He is the ultimate thriftier. Growing up I never thought I’d meet someone as cheap as my father. We never had a new car, a new TV or any other electronic as far as that goes, and the number of items that were salvaged out of the neighbors and other random people’s trash was ridiculous. Thank you Dad for teaching me that it is okay to pull over alongside of the road and do a little shopping.

But today I’m not thrift store shopping. Today I go big and turn away from my boutique and small shop roots. Today, I would like to give a little shout out to Macy’s. And for my roots of shopping there, I credit none other than my mother.

As a child we shopped at Hudson’s, which then became Marshall Field’s and later Macy’s. While all three stores were in the same building, Macy’s is really my true love. I really don’t know if anyone of them was better than the other, maybe I just gravitate more towards Macy’s because of the familiarity and the appreciation of money more in my adult life. Whatever the reason, it is my number 1 go-to store when I need something stylish and new to add to my wardrobe is Macy’s. They have the best sales. Discounts upon discounts, I highly recommend their clearance racks.

On top of that, the Star Rewards card (or Macy’s Credit Card) is a must have. I am not an advocate of shopping on credit, but this card is worth having. So many additional discounts and coupons sent your way – just make sure you pay it off on time, and you will reap the rewards. (And don’t tell Dave Ramsy!!)

Customer service is this store is top notch. Not just here in my Grand Rapids location either. I purchased all the suits for the groomsmen in my wedding from Macy’s and the service was impeccable. They helped me find all the pieces from stores all across the country and had them shipped directly to my doorstep. This is customer service in Flint, Michigan. I feel good about telling you to do some shopping in Flint – their store even has a furniture department! I’ve also had to use their phone services regarding my credit card account and it’s always been the absolute best experience. So polite and amazing. Macy’s opened its doors in 1858, meaning the store has been opened 155 years – they must be doing something right!

And don’t forget about their wedding registry. Above any other store, I recommend that couples registry here. The selection of goodies for your home, kitchen and bath is wonderful. If they don’t have it in store, you can so easily order it online (or add it to your registry online) and the stores are across the country, making it pretty convenient for all wedding guests. Then for the bonus, after your wedding you receive a gift card to Macy’s with a percentage of the total from all the wedding gifts that were purchased for you. After my wedding, we received a $50 gift card in the mail – and hardly anyone had even purchased from our registry. $50 of free shopping? Yes please!!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyL94Zzy_Jg&feature=player_detailpage

So head on over to Macy’s to finish your holiday shopping and be sure to drop off your letters to Santa and they will donate to Make-A-Wish!