Main Line Boutique Week

Exclusive discounts...in-store promotions...contests giveaways & MORE!

Main Line Boutique Week gives regular and new customers the chance to shop and save during a special week dedicated to them.  Be sure to follow each participating retailer on Facebook, along with the Main Line Today page.

Participating Retailers Include:  (more available on website)

 

New Home -- Time to Decorate

Recently my fiance and I just moved into our first house!  It's such an exciting time, what with planning our wedding and having a house of our own, and not an apartment.  The neighborhood is wonderful. From what I hear and have read, the school district is great (for New Jersey), and we have a fenced in backyard for Filly.  It's also nice that a lot of our neighbors have dogs as well.  During our routine walk and/or run with Filly, we get to meet new people and their pooches.

Since moving in, we've been unpacking, building, ripping up carpet..etc...Hopefully soon it will be time to hang pictures and decorate.  If it were up to me, I'd probably buy "all things dogs."  My house would look like the inside of Bark Avenue Boutique store in Wayne, PA.  But, not sure how Scott would react to that.  We will go with my office being "overly dog-centric."  Recently, the cutest mail holder showed up on my Facebook newsfeed.  Anthropologie now has this Dachsund Letter Holder for $32 that I am absolutely obsessed with.  It would go perfectly next to my black Labrador lamp on the hallway table!

I love that it holds a pencil that becomes the tail

Doggy PocketBac Holders

Two days ago (well who am I kidding, I went back yesterday) I went shopping @ Bath & Body Works.  Initially I was going to purchase some new PocketBac holders for my classroom, one of which I wear on a lanyard.  The new Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin smells amazing as does the Warm Apple Cider.  The current deal is buy 5 for $5.  So why not, it's not like they expire.

 

Anyways, I was walking around the store being my usual indecisive self and I picked a few scents I liked and purchased them.  Before I left I went to look in one section that I had missed, AND WHAT DID I FIND, Dog themed PocketBac holders!  I got a pink poodle, yellow dog, and white dog.  They were out of the brown dog, but it is on my list when I have a chance to go back!

This Saturday, Sept 15. from 1-5pm (in select stores) are having a Fall Festival.  Check it out for a free pumpkin carving candle!

Wedding Update!

Ever since I got back from Israel I've been in "full-bridal mode" whatever that means.  Scott is in "full-house mode."  We bought a house and we just moved in!super exciting!  Anyways, I have really kicked it into high gear.  After visiting The Bark Avenue Boutique and seeing the metal topiary in the shape of a dog, I knew that I needed to add it to my list of things to purchase for the wedding.  *Not sure what breed I want since I haven't been able to find a Shih Tzu*

We are going to cover it in lights and hopefully place it somewhere in one of the gardens -- if I can do it without causing a tripping hazard.

Petcentric (Hosted by Purina)

Petcentric, "The Ultimate Destination for Pet Lovers" is basically a website like "People" or "InStyle" but for those whose lives revolve around their pets.  

You are probably wondering why I have been MIA for soo long.  I recently returned from a 17 day trip to Israel.  10 days with Birthright and 7 days with my family!  It was an unbelievable trip and it is amazing how "dog-friendly" Israel is compared to the States.  After the 10 days with Birthright, my family stayed @ the Sheraton Tel Aviv, which interestingly is also dog-friendly (but size does matter).  However, walking around Tel Aviv, dogs would be off-leash and follow their owners around.  I was surprised at how well trained they were and that none of them ran out into traffic (thank goodness).

Even some of the restaurants were dog-friendly, both indoor and out -- mostly outdoors, but still I loved it!  Walking along Ben Yehuda in Tel Aviv, many of the restaurants have signs that say "Pet-Friendly" or "Dogs Welcome."  They are considered to be Petcentric Restaurants.  This had me curious, so when I returned to the States, I checked it out online.

The Purina Petcentric website has a search engine for "places and events" that are "pet-friendly."  In Israel they have a lot, here in North Brunswick, NJ not so many, but in downtown Philly, Conshohocken, and Valley Forge their are quite a few!!!

Check out the website and see for yourself.  They even give you lists of lodging locations that allow dogs, BEACHES, and of course, restaurants.

BAB Designs (Black Label & Green Label)

Looking for something unique for you and your pooch, the Bark Avenue Boutique in Wayne, PA has the "goods" for you.  Along with their Signature Black Label where you can get a "classic style to match your signature look" for both you and your pooch, they now have a Green Label!  You can donate your own old (or new) ties, curtains, old jeans...etc...and have them turned into a one of a kind dog collar, leash, harness, dress, pet bed, hair bow, mess-matts, and beds.  I have to be honest, I actually purchased some hair bows at the BAB and I wear them!  What can I say "I'm a dog at heart <3"

Donna & Daisy Mae in matching outfits

The Green Label is fabulous!  Completely made of 100% recycled materials and like I said before, one of a kind (unless of course you purchase 2).  I've been thinking of getting something (a tie, dress, skirt) in my favorite Lilly Pulitzer print *Dark 'n Stormy and having it made into a collar or leash for my little puppy Filly.  I have the Roselyn skirt and I got my fiance the tie, but Filly is missing out on my favorite print.  I may have to do something about that in the near future.  Hopefully, it'll show up on the ReLillyGroup on Facebook.

Happy 24th Birthday to ME!

Today is my 24th birthday!  Had a mini celebration with Scott and my mom yesterday (along with bridal dress shopping -- no luck).  Today I'm babysitting for 6+ hours and we put on an offer on a house (hope it works out.)  Definitely an interesting birthday.  In other news, Scott got me the doggy wallet I wanted by Ted Baker in hot pink!  I posted a picture of it earlier (check it out).  I'm obsessed!  He also got me a mint chocolate chip ice cream cake from Baskin Robbins -- brings back memories from when I was younger!  Always had to have an ice cream cake!

My cake -- but was bright pink & had my name

Never Drink Alone...Always with your Pooch

Mission Statement: Deliver Dogvergnügen 

Dogvergnügen (prounounced dawg' feh-gnu-gen) is defined as "The unique joy you feel in the presence of Dog" and is the inspiration for all Dog is Good products.  I love their products, which range from clothing (Men, Women, Kids, Dogs), Accessories, Jewelry...etc... and they don't just have dog themed products.  They do sell some horse & cat themed goods as well.

Right now I am obsessed with the "Never Drink Alone" t-shirts for men.  They come in many different breeds and are clever and witty.  A great shirt to pair with shorts or jeans, wear to the bar or relax by the pool.  They are relaxed fit tees, 100% cotton, and pre-laundered to eliminate shrinking.  What I really like about them is that each design is a different vintage dog beer label.  I got my fiance the "Labby Lager" navy blue t-shirt and I love when he wears it!

Fresh Breath, Clean Teeth.....Liquid Floss?

Recently I attempted to brush my dog's teeth with a toothbrush.  Needless to say he DID NOT like it.  My first attempt was not very successful, Filly kept moving his head and avoiding the toothbrush.  I decided to put a little peanut butter on the toothbrush, that way he'd want it in his mouth, and IT WORKED!  Okay, so maybe his breath doesn't smell  great, but his teeth are significantly cleaner.

Peanut butter is okay for dogs in small amounts.  If you use this technique, you only need a little on the brush bristles for a flavor.  However, because I didn't want to do this every time (especially having his breath stink of peanut butter all the time), I decided to pay a visit to Petco initially to buy special toothpaste for him or some Greenies.  Instead what I found was LiquidFloss!  TropiClean is a company that uses all natural ingredients and who came up with this new product that I think is fantastic.  Each of the products in the Fresh Breath collection require "no brushing."  They sell a gel, foam, water additive, chews, LiquidFloss, and LiquidFloss TriFlossBall.

I purchased  the LiquidFloss TriFlossBall because it comes with LiquidFloss, but also the suggested rope ball that actually absorbs the LiquidFloss, massages gums, and flosses teeth.  What I really like about this product is that the LiquidFloss can be sprayed on Filly's other toys.  In particular he has this hedgehog stuffed animal that is "his baby."  He is constantly chewing it (never ripping) or holding it in his mouth.  I am thinking I may spray some LiquidFloss on it so that his teeth get cleaned, but are also minty fresh.

Collars Go Nautical

Woah!  New trend -- collars are going nautical!  Even better, owners can match with a rope bracelet.  Lemon & Line handcrafts nautically inspired bracelets; based out of Newport, Rhode Island.  Using a square knot and hook clasp, these bracelets are comfortable yet fashionable.  Available in a number of colors and part of numerous collections, it is hard to pick just one.  My favorite is the Newport Kelly & Pink.  It matches perfectly with the Mascot Sailors Knot Bold Multi Collar and matching lead in Pink/Green.  I especially love the dog bone buckle on the collar and that it is anti-microbial.

Even top designers like Tory Burch are getting into the trend.  Click here to check out their adorable braided dog collar with a woven band and classic leather buckle.  Super cute --- and has a matching leash available as well.

Filly Cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies

Phillies....Red Sox....Phillies....Red Sox....I am torn between the two.  When I was younger (living in New York interestingly) my family cheered for the Red Sox.  When we move to PA and have lived there for years, we cheered for the Phillies.  Now in New Jersey, do I have to change teams -- oh wait --- never...always a Phillies/Red Sox girl!

Filly, my Shih-Tzu/Terrier is named after the city of Philadelphia.  Scott and I love PA and Philly.  After meeting in high school and studying at Drexel in Philadelphia, I knew I wanted to bring a little Philly to New Jersey.  We both cheer for the Phillies when we watch the games on TV (unless they are playing the Red Sox --- then I cheer for both teams).

Our little Filly is a big fan of the Philadelphia Phillies.  Showing his sports team pride he wears a Phillies baseball dog collar.  Donna Marie at the Bark Avenue Boutique sells a number of sports team apparel for your dog.  Ranging from bandanas, collars, leashes, jerseys, and t-shirts.  She even has a few dog cheerleading dress and team sweaters.  

I told my fiance, Scott that we should get an Eagles leash to go along with the Phillies collar.

Love Your Breed: Bling it On

Raise your paw if you love your dog and want to share it with the world!  Sold @ PetValue, Petco & online, Love Your Breed Rhinestone Stickers are a dazzling (pun fully intended) way to showcase your love of your pet.

While no mixed breeds are available yet -- fingers crossed, they do have a wide selection of available breeds including (but not limited to): Beagle, Bull Dog, Poodle, King Charles Spaniel, Pug, Shih-Tzu, Golden Labrador, and Chihuahua.  You can stick them on anything!  Many people choose to "blingify" their cell phone cases, but personally I like to make my wedding planner sparkle and keep a little reminder of my Shih-Tzu/Terrier, Filly, with me at all times.

Besides rhinestone stickers, Love Your Breed (part of FouFouDog) has some really cute apparel for dogs and gifts for dog lovers.  Similar to the stickers, they also have luggage tags, pet pockets, collectible pens, and acrylic keychains -- all of which are part of the Love Your Breed collection.

Interested in their products & GIVEAWAYS (Weekly Woof)?  Click here to check out their Facebook page.

Store Review: The Bark Avenue Boutique

Transforming from an at-home business baking doggie treats in 2009, building a name for itself in The Ardmore Farmer's Market, to opening a store in Suburban Square, and now part of the Radnor Pet Village, The Bark Avenue Boutique has blossomed into a one-of-a-kind doggie boutique.

Providing clients with the newest and trendiest items, owner Donna Marie sets up a unique shopping experience for the well-groomed pooch and their sophisticated owner.  She is a true lover of dogs and all things dogs.  In 2010 her store was awarded Best of Philadelphia, Best of Main Line Today, Best of Main Line Magazine & Best of Suburban Life.  The Bark Avenue Boutique was also featured in Philadelphia's Magazine 2011 Design Home, in addition to being in People Magazine for pets, Fido's Friendly magazine, and appeared on TV on CBS, NBC and The WB.  Click here for the video from myphl17 and click here for the video from NBC 10 Philadelphia.

Deals to Drool Over

Deal from Yelp.com

RueLaLa $20 for $40 @ The Bark Avenue Boutique --ends in 3 days

Products at The Bark Avenue Boutique are not just for your pooch.  They also have gifts and artwork, including handbags, mugs, and jewelry.  Because this is one of my favorite stores, I actually asked my fiance if it would be weird to add a dog store to our wedding registry...he just laughed.  If you happen to be in Wayne, PA be sure to check it out @ 107 N. Aberdeen Avenue or click here to like them on Facebook.

Lisa Welch Bone on Disc Cufflinks -- great for groomsmen

Product Review: Lydia & Pugs Customized Stationery

Customizing in specialized paper goods, blog design, business goods...etc... Lydia & Pugs offers clients a  unique way of sharing the love of their pet with others.  Designer Dawn Wood does an excellent job of working one-on-one with her clients, providing a personal consultation and a "one-of-a-kind" hand-painted, watercolor illustration of their pet.

Filly is my Shih Tzu Terrier.  When I grew up I had a Chocolate Labrador named Koko.  He passed at 13 1/2, but is the one who really started my "dog obsession."  Ever since I found out about Lydia & Pugs years ago, I have wanted to get a custom illustration of my dog.  In the past I purchased the pre-made Chocolate Lab stationery.  One year wearing a santa hat (for Christmas) and last year wearing a graduation cap (for College graduation).

Next year I'm getting married and I knew that I wanted Lydia & Pugs to design my bridal shower thank you stationery.  I even decided to use the design in my blog header!  I emailed Dawn and sent her a few photos (actually many photos) of my dog, Filly so that she could see him from different angles and how his fur changes color.

What is great about Lydia & Pugs is that your illustration is kept on file FOREVER!  That means that you can re-order in the future or you can use/add-on any of the illustrations in Dawn's library to your current illustration.  Meaning, for Valentine's Day I can order stationery of Filly wearing a sweater with hearts, or for Halloween, he could be next to a pumpkin. The possibilities are endless!

The Design Process:

There are 4 stages to the design process.  First you send in your inspiration photos.  For me that was photos of Filly and a picture of my all-time favorite Lilly Pulitzer bag in the Dark 'n Stormy print.  Next Dawn drew a rough sketch (a simple outline).  Following, she finished the illustration in watercolor.  With your custom order, you get three proofs.  I made a little tweak to the final design to make Filly stand out more on the paper and decided on whether the cards should have my name or both mine and my fiance's name.  The end product was better than I could have imagined when I got it in the mail!