Welcome to Our Holiday Shop: Your One-Stop Destination for Festive Cheer!

The holiday season is here, and we’re excited to announce the grand opening of our Holiday Shop! Whether you’re decking the halls, finding the perfect gift, or setting the stage for a cozy, festive gathering, our Holiday Shop has everything you need to make this season sparkle with joy and warmth.

From stunning decor to beautiful tableware and handpicked gifts, we've curated a collection that brings all the magic of the season straight to your home. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll find in our Holiday Shop:

Ornaments: Add a Personal Touch to Your Tree

The centerpiece of every holiday season is the Christmas tree, and no tree is complete without the perfect ornaments. Our ornaments collection features:

• Handcrafted Baubles: Beautifully detailed ornaments in glass, wood, and metal—some with intricate designs and others with whimsical touches.
• Vintage-Inspired and Modern Designs: Whether you prefer classic nostalgia or sleek contemporary styles, we’ve got something for every taste.

Holiday Tabletop & Serveware: Set the Perfect Table

No holiday celebration is complete without a beautiful table setting, and our holiday tabletop and serveware collection has everything you need to impress your guests. From elegant dinnerware to festive platters and serving bowls, here are some standouts:

• Holiday Dinner Plates & Platters: Fine porcelain or cheerful melamine designs featuring holiday motifs, perfect for everything from a casual meal to a formal dinner.
• Charming Serveware: Trays, bowls, and cake stands that elevate your spread and make serving your favorite holiday dishes a breeze.
• Festive Napkins and Table Linens: Add a pop of color and texture with our selection of embroidered napkins, table runners, and placemats.

Barware: Cheers to the Season

Raise a glass to the holidays with our barware essentials. Whether you’re crafting a signature cocktail or serving up mulled wine, our barware collection will elevate your festive entertaining:

• Holiday-Themed Glassware: From sleek martini glasses to whimsical wine glasses, choose from an assortment of designs that add fun and flair to your drink service.
• Cocktail Shakers & Decanters: Perfect for mixing up signature drinks, these stylish tools are a must-have for any home bartender.
• Festive Bar Accessories: From bottle openers to coasters, our holiday-themed bar accessories bring a touch of celebration to your drink station.

Holiday Gifts: Thoughtful Surprises for Everyone on Your List

Finding the perfect gift doesn’t have to be a challenge. Our holiday gifts collection is packed with unique, thoughtful options that are sure to delight:

• Cozy Gifts: From soft cashmere scarves to plush slippers, these gifts bring warmth and comfort to those you love.
• Luxury Candles: Nothing sets the mood like the glow of a candle. Choose from our selection of holiday-themed candles, featuring scents like winter pine, cinnamon spice, and vanilla sugar.
• Gifts for Entertainers: For the host or hostess, our curated gifts include elegant cheese boards, wine accessories, and even custom monogrammed items.

Holiday Candles: Create a Cozy, Festive Atmosphere

The flicker of a candle can instantly create a cozy, festive atmosphere. Our selection of holiday candles includes both classic and contemporary options that make the perfect gift or home accent:

• Seasonal Scents: Choose from warm, inviting fragrances like cinnamon, clove, pine, and orange spice—perfect for creating a welcoming atmosphere during your holiday gatherings.
• Elegant Candle Holders: Pair your candles with chic holders, from gold-dipped glass to rustic wooden bases, for an added touch of elegance.
• Eco-Friendly Options: We also offer a range of sustainable, non-toxic candles made with natural waxes and lead-free wicks.

Shop Now and Get Ready for the Holidays!

The countdown to the holidays has begun, and we can’t wait to help you make this season unforgettable. Whether you’re shopping for your own home or picking out the perfect gift, our Holiday Shop has everything you need to celebrate in style. Visit us today and discover festive treasures that will bring joy to your holiday season and beyond!

Visit our Holiday Shop

Let the festivities begin! 🎄✨

Visit our shop located at:
250 E Main Street 
Port Jefferson, NY 11777

Set a Stunning Table This Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of celebration, togetherness, and gratitude. One of the most delightful ways to enhance this festive spirit is by setting a stunning holiday table that reflects the warmth and joy of the season. Whether you’re preparing for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah, a beautifully arranged table can create an inviting atmosphere for your loved ones. Here’s how to create a beautiful holiday dining experience.

1. Choose a Theme

Before you start setting your table, decide on a theme that resonates with the holiday you’re celebrating. Each holiday has its unique symbols and colors:

• Thanksgiving: Warm autumn tones like oranges, browns, and golds.
• Christmas: Classic reds and greens, or a more modern palette of whites and metallics.
• Hanukkah: Deep blues and silvers, with touches of white.

Your theme will guide your choice of tableware, linens, and decorations.

2. Select the Right Tableware

Plates and Utensils

Choose dinnerware that complements your theme. For Thanksgiving, rustic or earthy dishes can add warmth. For Christmas, elegant china or festive-patterned plates can create a joyful atmosphere. For Hanukkah, consider blue or silver dinnerware for a contemporary touch.

Glassware

Coordinate your glassware with your tableware. Consider using different styles for water, wine, and any festive cocktails. For Hanukkah, consider using glass menorahs as centerpieces or accents.

Linens

Tablecloths and napkins are key to setting the mood. A crisp white tablecloth can provide a clean slate for colorful accents. For a cozier feel, a textured or patterned table runner can add depth and interest.

3. Create a Centerpiece

Your centerpiece is the focal point of your table and can set the tone for the entire meal. Here are some ideas:

• Thanksgiving: A cornucopia filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, or a beautiful arrangement of fall flowers like chrysanthemums and sunflowers.
• Christmas: A traditional evergreen garland with pinecones and ornaments, or a cluster of candles of varying heights for a warm glow.
• Hanukkah: A menorah at the center, surrounded by blue and silver accents, or a display of dreidels and gelt for a playful touch.

4. Add Personal Touches

Incorporate elements that reflect your personal style or family traditions:

• Place Cards: Handwritten place cards can add a personal touch. Consider using leaves or ornaments as holders.
• Family Heirlooms: Use cherished items like vintage silverware or decorative plates to bring nostalgia to the table.
• Seasonal Touches: Add pine branches, cranberries, or pomegranates to your decor to infuse the table with seasonal flair.

5. Lighting is Key

The right lighting can transform your holiday table from ordinary to extraordinary:

• Candles: Use an array of candles in different heights to create a warm and inviting glow. Consider scented candles for added ambiance.
• String Lights: For a festive touch, weave string lights through your centerpiece or along the table’s edge.
• Dim Lighting: If possible, dim your overhead lights to create a cozy atmosphere that encourages relaxation and connection.

6. Incorporate Holiday Flavors

Let the flavors of the season inspire your table setting:

• Edible Centerpieces: Consider using seasonal fruits, nuts, or baked goods as part of your decor. A pie or a loaf of challah can add both beauty and flavor to your table.
• Themed Favors: Small jars of homemade preserves, holiday cookies, or spice blends can serve as thoughtful favors for your guests.

7. Set the Mood with Music

Finally, don’t forget about the soundtrack to your gathering. Curate a playlist of festive tunes that reflect the spirit of your holiday. Soft background music can enhance the atmosphere and create a sense of joy and celebration.

Visit our Holiday Shop 

5 Ways to Cozy Up Your Space This Fall

As the crisp fall air settles in and the leaves begin their colorful dance to the ground, it’s the perfect time to transform your space into a cozy haven. Fall is all about embracing warmth and comfort, and there’s no better way to do that than by incorporating some seasonal touches into your home. Here are five simple yet effective ways to create a snug and inviting atmosphere this autumn with candles, throws, bedding, rugs, and decor.

1. Illuminate with Scented Candles

There’s something undeniably comforting about the gentle glow and rich aroma of candles. This fall, opt for scented candles that evoke the season's essence. Think pumpkin spice, cinnamon apple, or cedarwood. Place candles on tables, mantels, or in corners where they can provide a warm, ambient light. For an added touch of coziness, use candle holders that complement your fall decor—perhaps a vintage brass holder or a wooden lantern. The soft light and enticing scents will instantly make your space feel more inviting.

2. Layer Up with Plush Throws

Throws are not just functional; they’re a stylish way to add texture and warmth to your space. Choose throws in fall-inspired colors like deep oranges, rich browns, or muted greens. Chunky knit throws or fleece-lined blankets are perfect for wrapping yourself up on chilly evenings. Drape them over your sofa or armchair, or layer them on the end of your bed. This not only enhances comfort but also adds a pop of seasonal color and style to your room.

3. Upgrade Your Bedding for Fall

Your bedroom should be a retreat of comfort and relaxation. For fall, swap out your lightweight summer bedding for something more substantial. Opt for flannel sheets or a cozy quilt in autumnal hues. Layer your bed with a soft duvet or comforter and add extra pillows for an extra touch of warmth and luxury. Consider using pillowcases and shams with fall-themed patterns or textures, such as plaid or velvet, to create a cohesive and inviting look.

4. Add Warmth with Area Rugs

Area rugs are a fantastic way to add warmth and texture to any room. During fall, opt for rugs with rich, warm tones or patterns that evoke the season. Rugs in deep reds, oranges, or browns can anchor a space and make it feel more grounded. They also add a layer of comfort underfoot, which is especially nice as temperatures drop. Consider layering smaller rugs over larger ones for a cozy, collected look.

5. Enhance Your Decor with Seasonal Touches

Finally, don’t forget the power of decor to set the fall mood. Incorporate seasonal elements such as miniature pumpkins, dried leaves, or autumnal wreaths. Place these items strategically on shelves, tables, or mantels. A beautiful fall-themed centerpiece can instantly make your dining area more inviting. Additionally, consider using fabric or wooden accents with autumnal motifs, such as acorns or pinecones, to enhance the overall ambiance of your home.

Shop all new fall arrivals

Introducing Our Latest Arrival - Betsy Olmsted Bedding and Accessories

Welcome to the world of spirited creatures and vibrant flora, of vintage dreams and inky landscapes, of exaggerated colors and collected curiosities. Let's celebrate the extraordinary of the ordinary!

With a childhood dream of becoming a naturalist, Betsy has always adored animals and possessed an intrinsic fascination with the natural world, collecting specimens which have become subjects in her art. A passion for creatures and flora, hues and patterns, artistic expression and material culture form the foundation for Betsy Olmsted. Their exclusive prints begin as works on paper, hand painted by Betsy using watercolor, gouache, and ink.

 

 Curious Fox Pillow

 

 

 Tea Towel Camp Lake 

 

 

Tea Towel Dormouse

Kantha Quilt - Little Things

 

Shop the Betsy Olmsted Collection by visiting our online shop 

 

 

Unlocking the Secrets to Growing and Caring for Lavender: Your Essential Guide

Lavender, with its fragrant blooms and myriad uses, is a beloved addition to any garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice with a green thumb, cultivating lavender can be a rewarding experience. From its vibrant colors to its soothing aroma, lavender offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about growing and caring for lavender, ensuring your garden thrives with this versatile plant.

Choosing the Right Variety

Before diving into planting, it's crucial to select the right lavender variety for your climate and purpose. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a popular choice for its hardiness and lovely scent, while French lavender (Lavandula stoechas) boasts showy blooms and a unique appearance. Spanish lavender (Lavandula dentata) is another option known for its distinctive serrated leaves and strong fragrance. Research the specific requirements of each variety to ensure it will thrive in your garden.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Lavender is a sun-loving plant that thrives in well-drained soil. Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Lavender prefers slightly alkaline soil with excellent drainage to prevent root rot. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with sand or gravel to improve drainage. Raised beds or containers can also provide a suitable growing environment, especially for gardeners in regions with wetter climates.

Planting Lavender

Spring or fall are the ideal seasons for planting lavender. Start with healthy nursery plants or propagate from cuttings for consistent results. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and gently loosen the roots before planting. Space plants 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety's mature size. Water deeply immediately after planting and continue to water regularly during the first growing season to help establish strong roots.

Caring for Lavender

Once established, lavender is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from regular care to thrive:

1. Pruning: Prune lavender lightly after flowering to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming woody. Trim back about one-third of the plant, avoiding cutting into old wood.

2. Watering: Lavender is drought-tolerant once established but appreciates occasional watering during dry spells, especially in hot climates. Water deeply at the base of the plant rather than overhead to prevent fungal diseases.

3. Fertilizing: Lavender has modest fertilization needs. Apply a balanced fertilizer sparingly in early spring, or use compost as a natural alternative to enrich the soil.

4. Winter Care: In colder climates, lavender may benefit from a layer of mulch to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. Avoid heavy mulching directly around the crown of the plant to prevent moisture retention.

Lavender Bunches

Harvesting and Using Lavender

Harvest lavender blooms just as they begin to open for optimal fragrance and flavor. Cut stems in the morning after dew has dried but before the sun is too hot. Bundle stems and hang them upside down in a dry, dark place to dry. Once dried, lavender can be used in a variety of ways, including sachets, potpourri, culinary creations, and essential oils.

Growing and caring for lavender offers both beauty and practicality to any garden. By choosing the right variety, providing ideal growing conditions, and maintaining regular care, you can enjoy a thriving lavender garden that enhances your outdoor space and provides you with aromatic delights throughout the seasons. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, cultivating lavender is a delightful journey that rewards you with its stunning blooms and versatile uses.

Lavender by the scoop

Visit our Lavender Shop for all of our favorite Lavender Products or visit our shop located at 250 E Main Street, Port Jefferson, New York

Celebrate in Style: Patriotic Tablescape Ideas for the 4th of July

Celebrate in Style: Patriotic Tablescape Ideas for the 4th of July

As Independence Day approaches, it’s time to prepare for a celebration that embodies the spirit of freedom and patriotism. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a cozy gathering indoors, a well-decorated tablescape can set the perfect mood for your 4th of July festivities. Here are some creative and patriotic ideas to inspire your table decor:

Colors of Freedom: Embrace the iconic colors of the American flag by incorporating red, white, and blue throughout your tablescape. Use a crisp white tablecloth or runner as your base and layer with red and blue accents. Consider using patterned napkins, placemats, or even striped ribbon as napkin rings.

Source Pinterest

Stars and Stripes Centerpiece: Create a striking centerpiece using elements inspired by stars and stripes. Arrange a cluster of small American flags in a vase or mason jar, or opt for a simple arrangement of red, white, and blue flowers such as roses, carnations, or delphiniums. Scatter star-shaped confetti or small patriotic ornaments around the base for added flair.

Source Pinterest 

Rustic Charm: For a more rustic and casual vibe, use wooden crates or trays as serving platters or chargers. Arrange mason jars filled with wildflowers or small American flags down the center of the table. Add woven placemats and simple white dinnerware to complete the look.

Source Pinterest 

Beverage Station: Create a dedicated beverage station with a variety of refreshing drinks in patriotic colors. Serve lemonade or punch in clear pitchers with slices of strawberries, blueberries, and citrus fruits for a festive look. Offer guests striped paper straws or stirrers in red, white, and blue to complement the theme.

Source Pinterest 

Dessert Delights: Finish off your celebration with a dessert spread that pays homage to the 4th of July. Display a selection of treats such as cupcakes with flag-inspired decorations, fruit tarts topped with berries, or a classic American flag cake with layers of red, white, and blue frosting. Arrange them on cake stands or tiered trays for an impressive presentation.

Source and recipe from Pinterest 

Creating a patriotic tablescape for the 4th of July is all about embracing the colors, symbols, and spirit of America. Whether you prefer a classic and elegant setup or a more casual and rustic approach, these ideas can help you design a memorable gathering that honors the nation’s independence. So gather your loved ones, enjoy delicious food, and celebrate freedom in style this Independence Day!

We always look forward to the Port Jefferson 4th of July parade!