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2023 Coastal Virginia Handmade Ornament Guide
A gift guide featuring handmade ornaments from makers and small businesses in Coastal Virginia.
Local holiday ornament shopping guide!
One of my favorite Christmas memories is going to pick out and then decorating the Christmas tree. This is my husband and I’s first Christmas married and to add to both our childhood ornaments, we’ve been collecting ornaments from our travels, purchasing from local makers, and even making some ourselves.
I think it’s so meaningful to purchase ornaments that have meaning or a story behind them. If you feel the same, check out these coastal Virginia businesses you can purchase from this holiday!
Cheers,
Emily
Photos are from each of the businesses’ websites.
Jessica Bordi Art
Handpainted Custom Ornaments
Order a custom handpainted wood ornament of your loved ones as a gift or keep for yourself! Can include names and the year. Email Jessica to order!
Werther Leather Goods
Octopus Santa Ornaments
These leather Christmas ornaments are handmade by Derek in Norfolk, VA. He makes these cute octopus santas and also elephant butts.
She Makes Art
Wooden Ball Ornaments
She Makes Art crafts these cute natural wood-burned ornaments. Available in round or bulb-shaped in a variety of colors. Choose from a selection of designs or place a custom order.
Renee Beamer Harbor + Home
Boho Ornaments
For the boho lover in your life, look no further! Renee Beamer makes beautiful ornaments.
Check our her wreaths and winter soulstice scented candle while you’re at it!
VA Goods
Artist-Made Ornaments
Head to VA Goods for a classic, yet unique, gift to adorn your Christmas tree or hang in your window year-round. The shop offers a large selection of ornaments including glass-blown balls and more.
Coleman Senecal Art
Heirloom Oil Painting Ornaments
Coleman’s tiny heirloom fine art oil painting landscape ornaments are framed in gorgeous handmade frames and tied with jewel-toned velvet ribbon. These are ornaments you’ll want to hang in your home year-round!
Jars of Dust
Spiral Ornaments
Elevate your decor with the timeless beauty of Jars of Dust’s Ceramic Spiral Ornaments. Crafted from high-quality stoneware clay, these durable ornaments blend seamlessly with your holiday style. Their versatile design and subtle color make them a perfect holiday gift.
Blair Family Woodcraft
Oval Painted Wood Ornaments
These 4“ oval original acrylic paintings are sublimation printed on solid pine and adorned with soft green velvet ribbon. Bonus: there’s a magnet on the back to help you display the mini art piece year-round!
Ashlimarierose
Bespoke Celestial Portrait Minis
I ordered a custom silhouette of my husband (then boyfriend) and I last year and I adore it. These are beautiful and timeless works of art you can enjoy at Christmas or year-round!
Amy Miller Art & Design
Painted Globe Ornaments
These ornaments are individually painted and designed by contemporary abstract artist Amy Cole Miller. They make beautiful original holiday gifts!
Thirteen Winks
Virginia Beach Acrylic Skyline Ornaments
Thirteen Winks makes adorable artwork of including skylines! This acrylic ornament features my hometown’s skyline design printed on the back. Find all your favorite cities in her shop!
Beverly Gurganus Art
Handpainted Ceramic Ornaments
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the season with Beverly’s exquisite collection of handpainted ceramic ornaments. Her designs feature vintage-inspired florals in rich shades of deep burgundy, soft pinks, and shimmering gold and copper.
Monellisa
DIY Ornament Kit
Make your own set of 4 ornaments with this ornament kit! This DIY birchwood activity kit makes for a great activity for all ages. Check out Monellisa’s stationary, journals, and more on her website or at The Painted Tree!
Crafty Mink
Coastal Art Framed Ornaments
Each of Crafty Mink’s adorable and funky ornaments has hand-cut leather straps, metal frames, and watercolor paintings. Available for purchase at Kitsch Handmade, Sunshine Sweetpeas, and 17th Street Marketplace.
The Local Print Shoppe
Glass Ornaments
Shop locally designed and printed glass ornaments from The Local Print Shoppe! Options include everything from holiday to locally-inspired designs.
Sand & Salt
Clay Ornaments
Winter berries and a classic wreath design adorn Sand & Salt’s delicate designs for a classic Christmas. Sand & Salt also created an extra special ornament this year — an angel wing to honor those who can’t be with us.
ByJenniferLove
Handcut Paper Ornaments
This darling handmade paper ornament is made with a linoleum block print design. It is hand-cut, pre-folded, and comes with twine to hang it. The ornament can be conveniently unfolded for safe storage for future year’s use!
Tanyag Studio
Acrylic Ornaments with Calligraphy
Tanyag Studio offers gorgeous acrylic and wooden ornaments with calligraphy writing. You’ll find ornaments for newborns, cat and dog lovers, home owners, and more — all of which can be customized!
Fiona Twose Art
Art Collage Ornaments
Original art collage ornaments by Fiona will be available for sale at the Ghent Christmas Farmer’s Market on the first Sunday in December! These adorable cardinals are made with recycled paper, art paper, and handprinted paper on wood.
Kate Thomas Art
Original Handpainted Ornaments
These handpainted original ornaments and mini paintings by Kate can be hung on your tree or year-round on your walls!
Sara K Originals
Handpainted Wood Slice Ornaments
Lovingly and carefully hand-painted wood slice ornaments that will add just the right quiet touch to your decor this year. There will be only one of each design! You can purchase your favorite through Sara’s online shop beginning Friday, November 24, 2023 at 9am EST.
Looking to do more holiday shopping from local small businesses? Check out my shopping directory here!
Coastal Virginia Mother's Day Gift Guide
Looking for Mother's Day gift inspiration for the special moms in your life? Check out these ten local small businesses and makers in the Coastal Virginia region.
1. Split Rock Art & Design
Beautiful works of art for interior spaces
“I anticipate these products finding a meaningful place in your home and being a catalyst of inspiration and hope.”
Jonathan representation of the natural world is captivating and enchanting. I have multiple pieces of his artwork and often pause to appreciate them, discovering new details each time.
You can browse his shop for the perfect heirloom gift for Mother’s Day at splitrockart.com or catch him at the Old Beach Art & Eco Market on Saturdays.
Photo from splitrockart.com
Photo from splitrockart.com
2. Cocoa Nouveau
Intentionally hand-crafted chocolates & confections
Kristin's creations at Cocoa Nouveau are flawlessly crafted. Her product line is entirely gluten-free and she also provides vegan alternatives. You can place an advance order for chocolates and other goodies on her website, cocoanouveau.com, or visit her Instagram to find out her store's hours of operation!
3. The Wandering Petal
Floral & home boutique
Pre-order locally grown, stunning floral arrangements from Nicole at The Wandering Petal! You’ll find exquisite flowers like anenomes, delphinium, snapdragons, orlaya, foxglove and peonies lovingly arranged into tasteful bouquets. Head to thewanderingpetal.com to peruse her offerings and to place an order!
Photo from thewanderingpetal.com
4. Banks & Beach
Curated gift boxes & bundles
Lauren makes giving thoughtful, luxurious gifts — effortless. We recently launched her website and she has lovely gift bundles in stock just in time for Mother’s Day! You can browse her shop at banksandbeach.com.
5. Yōō Clean
all natural cleaning & home products
If you’ve tried Mary Yoo’s products you’re likely obsessed. I know I am! My mom loves it when I gift her refills of the All Purpose Cleaner or room refresheners. View her shop at itsyooclean.com and enjoy free local delivery in Hampton Roads.
6. J Zimmer Style
Personal wardrobe styling services
“Need help finding your grove for effortless style? I can figure out your ideal look to help you show a truer, more polished you!…I can save you time and stress so you can stay busy doing what you love to do.”
If you know a mother who lacks the time or energy to curate a wardrobe that aligns with her personal style, consider gifting her a personalized styling session. Jessica is an expert in this field, and you can find out more about her offerings at jzimmerstyle.com!
Picture from jzimmerstyle.com
7. The Industrial Cottage
homewares & custom furniture
Molly has established a store brimming with one-of-a-kind and charming home products, making it an ideal location for constructing a basket of gifts! You can visit her store in Norfolk or visit theindustrialcottage.com to purchase a gift card or an item to gift.
Picture from theindustrialcottage.com
8. Graze Kitchen
the best food at the northend
Shelley has created a delectable array of locally-sourced dishes. The café's homemade dressings and sauces are unparalleled, and I cannot emphasize enough how much I recommend it. The beautiful view, mouth-watering food, and serene atmosphere make it the ideal location for a Mother's Day brunch. To peruse their menu or purchase an electronic gift card, go to grazekitchenvb.com.
9. The Pinner House
A boutique bed & breakfast located in the Historic Downtown Suffolk
Whether it's their lavish chambers in the main building or their charming cottages, The Pinner House provides an ideal setting for some much-needed repose and unwinding. If you're looking for a gift for a mother who could use a staycation, reserve a stay at thepinnerhouse.com. Additionally, their new café, Café Dâvina, opens this Saturday, and their crepes and coffee are beyond compare!
Picture from thepinnerhouse.com
10. Natsa Jewelry
chic jewelry
Nat has assembled a timeless line of exquisite rings, earrings, ear cuffs, necklaces, and bracelets. Her pieces are fashioned from gold, rose gold vermeil, and sterling silver, and are suitable for sensitive skin. Visit her website at natsajewelry.com to discover her offerings and gift a mother in your life with jewelry that she will cherish forever!
I hope this page has helped you discovered a wonderful gift for the special mothers in your life! If you're interested in exploring additional fantastic small businesses to support, please visit my directory for Coastal Virginia Small Business Shopping, listed below!
Cheers,
EBC
11 Remote Work Spots in Virginia Beach
Looking for inspiration for where to hunker down in Virginia Beach and get work done or even read a good book? Check out the places below!
*If you’re working from a coffee shop, café, or some other similar establishment, mind your etiquette and read the room. Are there only two tables in the space? Is it more like a restaurant where you should eat and leave? Then it might not be best to set up shop and hog a table for half a day.
“Always fresh. Always memorable.”
Lots of seating
Big windows with natural lighting
Friendly staff
Free wifi
Delicious food & coffee
Consistently clean environment
My go-to order: Top of the Hill Sandwich on gluten-free bread with a lime Crunchy Hydration water or iced coffee
Note: Closed on Mondays!
2. Fruitive - Hilltop
“Plant-based. Simple. Beautiful.”
Tons of seating: booth, comfy chairs, & café chairs
Free wifi & lots of outlets to charge laptops
Delicious, organic, plant-based foods & beverages
Great natural lighting
Consistently clean environment
Indoor & outdoor seating
My go-to order: 24oz Wellness Warrior w/ almond butter added
Chai Tea Latté
3. VLOVE
“A beach coffee dream.”
Lots of windows with natural lighting
Delicious coffee & food
Great spot for people-watching!
Beautiful minimal esthetic
Walking distance to the beach
My go-to order: Vanilla latte w/ oat milk or fresh squeezed lemonade
4. Astraea Coffee
“Liberty. Justice. Coffee for all.”
Free wifi
Great staff
Delicious coffee & food
Lots of different seating areas and nooks
Indoor & outdoor seating
Homey vibes
My go-to order: Hung Jury latte w/ oat milk
5. Three Ships Coffee - Hilltop
“A quiet repose in an otherwise not quiet part of town.”
Free wifi
Several spots to sit
Good natural lighting
Fairly quiet environment
Modern, fun interior
My go-to order: Pungo latte w/ oat milk
6. Commune
“real food unites us all.”
Lots of seating options (indoor and outdoor)
Delicious food & coffee (their homemade coffee syrups are incredible)
Good natural light
Free wifi
My go-to order: The Vedge on a crepe w/ a dulce latte
Note: Can get crowded & noisy during busy times.
7. American Brew
“Coffee, whiskey, & community.”
Free wifi
Delicious coffee & food
Lots of seating options (indoor and outdoor)
Natural lighting
My go-to order: Morning Hash Bowl w/ vanilla oat milk latte
Note: Can get crowded & noisy during busy hours. Closed on Mondays!
8. Gather VB
“Your work space is more than deadlines and coffee. It’s people, the possibilities. It’s about your productivity, your goals, your future.”
Coworking spaces
Free wifi
Private offices
Conference rooms
Podcast booths
Phone booths
Communal kitchen w/ coffee
Clean, modern esthetic
Located in Virginia Beach’s town center
Note: You can tour the space for free but membership is required to go regularly. If you get a membership, you can have access to all 7 of Gather’s locations.
Image from workatgather.com
9. 1701
“Cool kid’s club but for entrepreneurs.”
Coworking space with flexible memberships
Collaboration & community
Conference rooms
Fast wifi
Local coffee served
Printing
Phone booths
Indoor & outdoor workspaces
Walking distance to restaurants, coffee shops, & the beach
Note: You can tour the space for free but membership is required to go regularly.
10. Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library
I hadn’t been to the library in a few years but stopped by the Central Library recently to renew my library card and am excited to go back and work from one of their cozy nooks!
Lots of seating options
Free wifi & lots of outlets to charge laptops
Huge collection of books & other resources
Public computers, printers, & scanners
Meeting & study rooms
Don’t need to purchase coffee, food, or memberships to work from here
Note: Bring your own coffee or snacks! Talking on the phone may not be appropriate for the common areas.
P.S. If you haven’t downloaded the Hoopla Digital App or Libby App yet they’re awesome free resources that connect with your library card!
11. TCC / City of Virginia Beach Joint-Use Library
While I didn’t like this spot quite as much as the Central Library (since it’s part of TCC, it had more academic/college vibes), it is a very nice facility with:
A ton of great seating
Huge collection of books & other resources
Free wifi
Public computers, printers, & scanners
Meeting & study rooms
Don’t need to purchase coffee, food, or memberships to work from here
Note: Bring your own coffee or snacks! Talking on the phone may not be appropriate for the common areas.
Many of us have given up the 9-5 life for the flexibility and freedom that comes with working remotely. That could mean working from your house, a local coffee shop, a co-working space, or even a hammock on a faraway exotic island (GOALS). Check out my blog post here for what to consider before working remotely.
#VAgoodness Holiday Gift Guide
A gift guide featuring women-owned micro businesses in Virginia!
the Ebc X VA Goods Holiday Gift Guide is HERE!
I think it’s important to support small businesses of all sizes but this year I wanted to highlight local women-owned micro businesses — those that operate on a very small scale as solo operations or with very few employees.
VA Goods is amazing because everything in their shop is made in Virginia with a large portion by women-owned micro businesses. Everything on this guide you can find at their shop inside Selden Market in Downtown Norfolk (208 E Main Street Suite 111 Norfolk, VA 23510). I hope this guide is helpful for checking people off your holiday shopping list!
xx,
Emily
Pssst…pay attention to the writing in bold below to catch special deals exclusive to this guide!
For the home
Renee Beamer Harbor + Home Reed Diffuser
For the boho lover in your life, look no further! Renee Beamer makes beautiful wreaths, reed diffusers and other home items.
I love products that are both functional and beautiful and Renee’s Boho Reed Diffuser is both. The Winter Soulstice scent welcomes a calming state with notes of fir, citrus, and cedar wood and is hands down my favorite (I stock up on it so I can enjoy year round!).
For All Handkind Glass Ball Ornament
A classic gift to adorn your Christmas tree or hang in your window year round. Each ornament is unique & hand blown by Kim McKinnis. Check out a behind-the-scenes making of the ornaments here. DEAL: Mention this gift guide and receive $5 off an ornament! Offer good through 12/31/21.
EJ Coastal X FAHK Holiday Wine Candle
Looking for a unique, upcycled gift? Check out these wine bottles that were cut and polished by For All Handkind and turned into candles by EJ Coastal. Available scents include Mistletoe, Eucalyptus & Mint, Pumpkin Spice, and Winterberry. DEAL: Purchase $75 worth of products from VA Goods and receive one of these handmade wine candles for FREE when you mention this gift guide! Offer good through 12/31/21 or while supplies last.
Fig & Fire Holiday Matches
Pair these natural wood, color tipped matches with your favorite candle and you’ve got the perfect holiday gift for the ‘homebody’, a client, co-worker, or teacher. Makes an easy stocking stuffer, too!
For the foodie
Vessel Craft Coffee
Artisanal small batch coffee roasted to perfection? Yes, please. Their Holiday Blend makes a great gift for coworkers, in-laws, or an easy host gift. If you really want to level up your stockings this year, add a bag of coffee! DEAL: Buy 2 bags receive 3rd bag 50% off when you mention this gift guide. Offer good through 12/31/21.
Mother Shrub Mixing Vinegar
Mother Shrub has a delicious selection of mixing vinegars but their holiday Vanilla Hickory Pear made with slightly sweet pear, creamy vanilla and a hint of smokiness from wildcrafted hickory bark syrup from Virginia-based Falling Bark Farm…is a MUST.
Mix with vodka, amaretto and top with club soda to make a cocktail version of a frangipane tart. Add a splash of elderflower cordial, a squeeze of lemon and top with sparkling water and an edible flower garnish. Tastes great in an Old Fashioned, too!
NuLand Hot Sauce
NuLand prides themselves on ridiculously fun, surprising, and unusual flavored “hot stuff” with heat that builds. And with flavors like Cherry Chili, Maple, and Cranberry Habanero, I’d have to agree. Made at their Family Farm, these "Farm-to-Flavour” hot sauces are the perfect gift for anyone who loves flavor and spice!
Stop by VA Goods on Small Business Saturday (11/27) for a tasting by NuLand!
Lazy Lux Wellness Steeping Jar
Cold Weather calls for comfy sweaters and warm drinks! Infuse cider, apple juice, spirits, or coffee with these delicious spices.
Directions: Place loose tea in tea bag or steeping ball. Steep in 8oz of water for 8-10 minutes. Jar contains 10-12 servings.
It Started with a Fig Jams & Butters
These vegan, all natural jams made with fresh fruit from local farms instantly elevate any pb&j, toast, or really anything you add them to!
It Started with a Fig’s seasonal flavors include Cranny Apple, Apple Butter, 24 Carrot, Black Razz & Plum Spice, and Peaches Y’all (peaches, brown sugar, almond flavoring & nutmeg).
Dee’s Peanut Butter
Dee’s Peanut Butters are vegan with no added sugar, made with natural peanut butter, loaded with ground flax and chia seeds and blended into a lightly chunky, smooth consistency. YUMMM.
Dee’s seasonal flavor is Chocolate Chili and I can’t wait to try it!
KēWi Teas Spiced Chai
Inspired by the traditional "Masala Chai", this well-rounded blend of premium black tea and traditional, aromatic chai spices is perfect for a cozy night at home. Enjoy by itself or with milk & sweetener for a delicious hot or iced chai latte!
Skincare & Self-Care
Maven Made Mini Size Gift Set
These plant-based gift sets are perfect stocking stockers or gift for someone who needs some pampering (including yourself!).
Relaxation Gift Set includes:
- Tonka Bean & Lavender Room and Linen Spray
- Sleep Serum
- Headache & Tension Remedy
Skin Love Gift Set includes:
- Facial Serum
- Rosewater Wondermist
- Every Body Oil
Naked Goat Soap Co NOURISH Clay Mask
NOURISH is a gentle blend of clays and botanicals designed to polish and cleanse skin. Made with Kaolin White Clay, Rose Clay, Colloidal Oatmeal, Pomegranate Powder, Chamomile Powder, Rosehip Seed Powder, Rose Absolute Oil, and Palmarosa Essential Oil. Great gift for anyone who enjoys a good face mask!
Olive Culture Soap
I’ve smelled each of these soaps and they smell sooo good they’re hard to put down! Scents include Milk + Honey, Citrus + Patchouli, East Beach, Rosemary + Sage, Lavender + Cedar Wood.
Yōō Clean
I love and use everything Yōō Clean makes but my favorite gift-able items are her All Purpose Cleaner (it cleans counters, windows, mirrors - anything & everything!), Car Diffuser, and Coffee Vanilla Sugar Scrub.
Her products are organic, all natural and incredibly effective!
Accessories
Kristin Paige Leather
From leather and thread to hardware and tools, nearly every element of what goes in to making Kristin Paige’s bags are sourced from small businesses in America!
VA Goods is stocked with a selection of Kristin’s card cases and trinket trays. She will be working at VA Goods on Small Business Saturday (11/27) — a great chance to stop by and meet the maker!
Fringe & Fire Clay Earrings
These handmade polymer clay earrings make a unique gift for your funky friends! Michelle is always coming up with new designs and VA Goods has several styles stocked.
Aquí Boutique Leather Bags
These handcrafted bags constructed of naturally conditioned leather are super cool because of their unique and traditional designs from Chiapas Mexico. I have one of these bags and their laptop sleeve is on my wish list!
L.O.U.D. Accessories
Tasteful, minimal, beautiful. L.O.U.D. Accessories makes 14kgf unique handmade jewelry that goes with any outfit! I have a couple of her rings and wear them daily.
XO Jennifer Alexis
For the person who loves a bit of glitz and glam, these Space Cadet Fused Glass Earrings are perfect. Dichroic Glass and Argentium Silver ear wires make up these hypoallergenic and low tarnish earrings.
Holiday Cards by Rowena F. Finn
Finish off your gift with a handmade card! This stationary set features prints of original designs by contemporary realist painter, Rowena F. Finn.
After stopping in VA Goods, check out these women owned micro businesses next door inside Selden Market!
Lorak Jewelry
With the desire to create beautiful and unique pieces for every budget and occasion, LORAK has several distinct collections. Working in brass, "vermeil" silver with a heavy gold plate, silver, and gold alloys, Anna employs a mix of traditional old world and modern jewelry techniques. She hand fabricates, carves, casts, and hand finishes each piece. Combined with her attention to detail while designing, each piece is specially made with a personal touch.
I have their Arcata Drop earrings and always receive compliments when I wear them!
Sugar & Grace Co.
Erica at Sugar and Grace Co makes soy candles that are 100% natural, with no paraffin, petroleum, or phthalates. She also has a great selection of plants, flowers, home items and offers DIY candle making!
Shop Gallagher
Gallagher is a women's clothing brand committed to sustainable sourcing and ethical production. Each piece is hand-sewn in Norfolk, VA.
I have their Perrin top and one of their neck scarves and the quality is unmatched.
Their scrunchies make for great stocking stuffers!
If you purchase from VA Goods, I’d love to know what you get! Tag me in a photo or send me a DM on IG at @emilybensonconsulting.
Interested in learning more? Meet the women behind these businesses here.
Food Photography Tips & Prop Ideas
The first type of photography I learned was food photography. It also happens to be my favorite! Getting just the right angle, creatively staging the menu, and, of course, tasting the food or drinks is something I love to do. If you’re looking to take some food or drink photos, here are some tips and props I have found useful over the years:
Have a plan
It goes for any photography, but know what the images are going to be used for and plan accordingly. For example, if it’s going to be used for instagram you’ll want to make sure all the elements fit into a square. If you’re looking for a hero image for your website with text overlay, you’ll want a horizontal image with blank space in the area the text will go.
Avoid using a flash
Avoid using a flash with food photography as it can create a glare on the item. Shoot in natural light to capture the true color of the food items.
Reduce the clutter
Don’t add objects into the photo unless it serves a specific purpose. If the item is looking lonely by itself, adding the individual ingredients that go into the food item can bring a nice dynamic.
Fruitive Avo Portobello Panini
Fruitive Avo Portobello Panini
Play with the focal point
Which element in the picture do you want to pop? In the first image below I focused in on the smoothie. In the second, the ingredients.
Fruitive Coffee Date Liquid Meal
Fruitive Coffee Date Liquid Meal
Get the close-up shot
If you’re using the photo for social media, make sure to get some nice close-ups! From my experience, these photos get the most interaction.
Graze Kitchen Sweet Hash Bowl
Utilize motion & add a human element
Pouring a drink, cutting a cake, or reaching for a plate are easy ways to add a sense of movement to the photo. Tip: ask the model to keep moving as if they are actually eating the food, taking a drink, etc and keep snapping photos. It’ll look less staged than if they just hold a pose.
Fruitive Plant Based Matcha Latté
Fruitive Plant Based Pizzas
Fruitive Superberry Bowl and Latté
Graze Kitchen Coffee and Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Board
Vessel Craft Nitro Cold Brew
Graze Kitchen Summer Picnic
Fruitive Cold Brew with Nut Milk
Use a Tripod
For overhead shots, use a tripod to get steady and consistent shots. Tripods are also great for capturing photos you can later turn into stop motion videos.
Fruitive Liquid Meals
Fruitive Liquid Meals
keep it Neutral
Use neutral backgrounds to make the colors in the food pop or for when you will need to create a graphic with text overlaid.
Fruitive Plant Based Harvest Pizza
Get the group shots
After capturing the individual shots, I always make sure to take some group shots. There’s something a bit more interesting in seeing all the items at once versus by themselves.
Graze Kitchen Fall Drink Menu
Fruitive Liquid Meals
Fruitive Meals
I don’t use a lot of props with food photography but these are a few favorites:
Walnut Jut Board & Napkins
While I think letter boards can be tacky sometimes, I love this walnut board! It is great for when you want to add some description to a photograph. I also like using napkins as a way to incorporate texture or a pop of color to the photo. The one pictured below is made by The Indigo Tribe and is sold at KitschVA.
Fruitive Meals at Home Cooler Bag with Walnut Jut Board, The Indigo Tribe Napkin, Crate & Barrel Plate, and Glass from MacDonald’s Nursery
Newspaper, Menus & reusable straws
There’s nothing quite so nice as reading a physical newspaper. A newspaper or paper menu are easy prop ideas to add an extra element to the shot. Capturing a drink? A metal, glass or bamboo straw can make for a fun addition.
Fruitive ABC Waffle & Dragon Berry Liquid Meal
Graze Kitchen Iced Tea
Fruitive Peaches N’ Greens Liquid Meal with Reusable Glass Straw
Vessel Craft Nitro Cold Brew with Reusable Metal Straw
Hand carved spoon
If you need to use a spoon, make it unique! I got this hand carved spoon from a local wood worker, Nelson Wooden Boats. I use it as my daily coffee scoop but it also makes it into a lot of my photography that features dry ingredients like coffee beans or tea leaves.
Vessel Craft Coffee
Purely Elderberry Tea
Wood board
In the shot below, the wood board helps break up the white space and ground the objects. When it comes to adding materials, I love using natural woods. This particular board is from Target but I have a couple of Hill Woodwork charcuterie boards which I love to use, too.
Vessel Craft Coffee Nitro Cold Brew
Fresh flowers or seasonal items
Fresh flowers in the summer or items like pumpkins and pinecones in the fall can help subtly signal a seasonal menu change.
Graze Kitchen Wine
Graze Kitchen Fall Pumpkin Smoothie
I hope you found these tips helpful! I’d love to know, which food or drink looked the tastiest to you? Comment below!
Cheers,
Emily
EBC's Small Business Holiday Gift Guide
It may seem early to be thinking about holiday shopping, but now is the time to leisurely shop and start checking people off your list!
Three cheers to all the small business owners who have weathered the storms of 2020. This holiday season support our local economy by purchasing from small businesses in Hampton Roads! There are so many great options that I had a hard time narrowing it down but here are a few of my favorites.
Under $100
Wanderful Boxes
Sara, owner, is the BEST ever for creating curated gifts — corporate, wedding, birthday…you name it! Not sure what you should gift? She’ll help you find the perfect thing. (Wanderful Boxes has gifts that are both under and over $100.)
IG @wanderfulboxes
Byrdhouse Holidays
Immediately elevate your holiday wrapping with Mia Byrd’s hand dyed, plant-based ribbons! She’s launching ribbons, ornaments, stationary, and more for the holiday season. She also does killer home decorating!
IG: @byrdhousebrands
Vessel Craft Coffee
Their Bourbon Barrel Aged Coffee and 757 Blends are my go-tos. They also are the only local company I could find that makes instant coffee…and did you even live through the 2020 pandemic if you didn’t try whipped coffee??
IG @vesselcraftcoffee
Nelson Wooden Boats
I have several of his hand carved spoons that I use for cooking but this rounded spoon is my favorite. It’s the perfect coffee or tea scoop! Pictured with Purely Elderberry’s delicious tea.
IG @nelsonwoodenboats
For All Handkind
What better way to adorn your tree than with glass blown ornaments made in Norfolk, VA? Each ornament is unique and For All Handkind offer lots of different colors, shapes, and styles.
IG @forallhandkind
Earth to Water (formerly Ballahack Outdoor)
Their CRKT M21 Folding Knife w/ Tripple Point Serrations is my favorite pocket knife! Everything in their store is perfect for the adventurer or outdoor lover in your life.
IG @earthtowater
It’s Yōō Clean
These products make me WANT to clean. They are all-natural, WORK, and smell amazing. Mary, owner, just released gift bundles — the perfect host gift!
IG @itsyooclean
Jennifer Love
I was recently introduced to Jennifer Love’s work and she’s now on my wishlist! Jennifer is a minimalist printmaker who even makes her own paper.
IG @by.jenniferlove
Cocoa Nouveau
Hands down the best chocolates and confections I’ve ever had. These European-style, decadent goodies are handcrafted by Maître Chocolatier Kristin Joslin.
IG @cocoanouveau
Renee Beamer Harbor & Home
This Winter Soulstice Modern Wreath is #GOALS. Renee’s shop is filled with boho style accents and gift ideas!
IG @reneebeamer
Sugar & Grace Co.
Love, love, love Sugar and Grace Candles. I have 4 in my room currently! I love her Shades of Beauty and Between the Sheets candles but can’t wait for her holiday line to launch.
IG @sugarandgrace.co
Over $100
Shire House Furniture Co.
Using salvaged lumber and steel, Danny crafts beautiful furniture and select home goods like charcuterie boards. If you’re considering a new coffee table, dining room table, etc — you can’t go wrong with a beautifully handcrafted piece from Shire House Furniture Co. They’re pieces you’ll want to keep forever.
IG @shirehousefurnitureco
Shop Gallagher
I have the Perrin top and one of their neck scarves and love them both! Shop Gallagher’s clothes are designed, developed, and produced by a sister-duo here in Hampton Roads. Their pieces are made from natural fibers with ethical manufacturing and they promote selective consumerism.
IG @shopgallagher
Werther Leather Goods
Their tool bag crossbody is my FAVE — the design was inspired by an old tool bag found in a family shed. Made in house from start to finish, their products are timeless pieces you’ll keep forever!
IG @wertherleathergoods
Hill Woodworking
From Cedar of Lebanon charcuterie boards to black walnut cutting boards, anything in their shop makes for a quality, unique present! Crafted with a large variety of Virginia hardwoods. (Their shop has items both under and over $100.)
IG @hillwoodworking
Katie Parsons Collection
Katie’s paintings are unique, eye catching, and peaceful. Purchase a painting from her shop or commission a special piece!
IG @katieparsonscollection
I had so many additional great suggestions that I couldn’t fit on the gift guide but wanted to give them a special mention! Make sure to check out French Twist Boutique, Jen Van Horn Health, Trish Boutique, Sprout VB, Jars of Dust, Third Born Clothing, HortiCulture Design Co., Pepper and Pink Co., Pixelated Boutique, Shop Bocu, Northend Bag Co., Smooth Downtown, Prince Ink, Chrysler Museum Shop, Be Well Boxes, Orange Sky Wellness, Read Books, Kitsch Handmade, Faithfull Lashes, The Bikini Hut, The Beauty Tree Spa, Coastal Jewelry Studio, Blossom & Bone Designs, Norfolk Candle, Method Wellness, Purely Elderberry & Wellness, Hamilton Perkins Collection, & Dirt Work Ceramics.
I hope this post was helpful for holiday gift ideas! Happy shopping!
A Tour of a Maître Chocolatier's Studio
“Life happens, chocolate helps.”
I had the pleasure of getting a behind-the-scenes look inside Cocoa Nouveau’s “chocolate room” this past week. Not a bad way to spend a Friday morning!
Warning: blog post may cause you to crave chocolate.
Chocolate covered caramels
Kristin Joslin, Maître Chocolatier and owner of Cocoa Nouveau, is a lover of all things chocolate. She always loved eating chocolate but it wasn't until after living in Europe and attending the Ecole Chocolat Professional School of Chocolate Arts and L’Ecole du Grand Chocolat Valrhona for Chocolate Mastery that she began crafting artisan chocolates and confections by hand.
People who make chocolate have got to be the best people in the world.
Chocolate covered salted caramels
“My mission is to now spread joy by bringing European-style decadent chocolates to the community of Hampton Roads. I use only the best and most sustainable ingredients in my products and my kitchen is preservative and gluten-free (along with select vegan options).”
Hand cutting dairy-free pomegranate organic 65% chocolate
Temperature and humidity are very important in keeping the integrity of chocolate. Her “chocolate room” is air controlled to be below 70 degrees with a dehumidifier that keeps humidity below 50%.
Hand cutting dairy-free pomegranate organic 65% chocolate
“Every country has their different way of crafting chocolates. In France and Italy the flavors are darker, they don’t use as much milk chocolate, they’re cleaner and more nuanced. Germany and Belgium chocolate is typically much sweeter and heavy on the nuts. My style is more French / Italian.”
Art Nouveau can be found around her workshop
Art Nouveau can be found throughout her workspace. It was when Kristin found the post card below in a gift shop in Europe that she knew what she wanted her business name to be…Cocoa Nouveau.
Postcard that inspired Cocoa Nouveau’s name
“The meaning behind the name was inspired by my love for the feminine and floral “Art Nouveau”, the international style of art, architecture, and applied art after the Industrial Revolution that was about celebrating the handcrafted and artistry. Not only is my business named after this style of art, each of my chocolate flavors are named after a city, artist, architect, etc from that time.”
Hand painting the molds with colored cocoa butter
Kristin has very high standards when it comes to her chocolates. She uses small in-country fine chocolate makers whenever she can (meaning they grow and produce the chocolate themselves).
Hand painting the molds with colored cocoa butter
Adding the third color to the molds
We walked through her secret garden filled with herbs and plants like ginger, figs, lavender, olive, mint, thyme, lime tree, lemon tree, and more. Kristin uses all these fresh items in her delectable chocolates and confections.
Fresh rosemary
“My favorite flavors to infuse into my chocolates are really spicy ginger and anise. I grow them both in my garden.”
Fresh ginger
Olive tree, lavender, and more in Kristin’s garden
In addition to chocolate, Kristin makes marshmallows, drinking chocolate (my FAVE), chocolate dipped citrus, caramels, and baked goods.
Handcrafted vanilla bean marshmallows
Handcrafted vanilla bean marshmallow
I’ve eaten a lot of Cocoa Nouveau, but this is the first time I got to see some of the process of how they’re made. Kristin’s knowledge, attention to detail, creativity, and dedication to the best makes her products stand out from the rest.
Are you craving chocolate and confections now? Head to www.cocoanouveau.com to place an order!
Meet Glassblowing Artist & Entrepreneur, Kim McKinnis
Kim McKinnis, cofounder of For All Handkind, educator, and one of the most talented glassblowing artists in Hampton Roads, invited me to Chrysler Museum’s Glass Studio for some behind-the-scenes glassblowing.
Did you know glass starts to move and melt at 1,000 degrees?! Kim reviewed shop safety with me but, turns out, my natural instinct is to keep a safe distance from molten glass.
“The first time I saw glassblowing, it was the closest thing to magic I’d ever seen.”
Glassblowing is a glass forming technique where you inflate molten glass into a bubble through a blowpipe. Pretty cool, right?
Pictured: Adding the color.
During my visit, Kim was busy testing custom holiday ornaments. From classic holiday balls to spooky bats, she can make literally anything! If you’re one of my clients, you have reason to be excited this holiday season…
“My favorite thing to make is glass bowls because they’re functional and very challenging. The slightest wrong move can ruin it and it’s hard to make the bowl elegant.”
Pictured: Adding the decorative shapes to the glass ornament.
Pictured: Reheating the glass.
Pictured: Reheating the glass.
Kim was working in the studio with an assistant and it was fascinating to see the two of them work and communicate speedily with non-verbal cues. Renting glass studios by the hour can be expensive, so learning to work efficiently is important.
“My favorite part of the glassblowing process is the transformation that happens and the collaborative aspect of working with other artists.”
Pictured: Shaping the ornament.
Pictured: Removing excess glass.
Pictured: Using a torch on the ornament.
“Some of the worst advice you could give an aspiring artist? Being told there’s nothing original or “that’s already been done” can be really harmful. There’s always ways to make something your own or do it differently. The same could be said for business too. The pandemic has shown us that the way forward is to adapt and evolve.”
Pictured: Adding the ornament hook.
Pictured: Shaping the ornament hook.
Pictured: The making of a black bat ornament.
More examples of Kim’s glass work:
Originally from Southern California, Kim fell in love with glassblowing after taking some classes in college. She went on to earn a BFA, in studio art with a concentration in glass, and an MFA, in Exhibition Design, from the California State University in Fullerton, California.
Kim moved to Norfolk, VA to participate in Chrysler Studio’s six month Assistantship Program and now teaches Glassblowing, Art 101, and Portfolio Resumé at TCC, and Foundational Concepts and 3D Design at ODU.
In addition to teaching classes and running For All Handkind, Kim is currently working on a pilot program of virtual tours at the Barry Art Museum on campus at ODU.
You can find Kim’s work for sale at For All Handkind, Kitsch, UrbanGlass, Grand Central Arts Center, Drinking Vessels, or Uncommon Goods.
I hope you enjoyed this short behind-the-scenes of glassblowing as much as I did!
Q&A with Owner of Purely Elderberry & Wellness
I recently had the opportunity to take product photos for Perry O’Rourke and wanted to introduce her with a Q & A! Perry is an entrepreneur, mom and owner of Purely Elderberry and Wellness, where she makes delicious elderberry syrup and teas.
How did the idea for your business come about?
The idea for Purely came about when my son turned one. His sweet little immune system was not great and I worked very hard to help him get adequate nutrients to stay healthy. Then we started using my homemade Elderberry and it completely transformed our lives. My son was not catching colds as often and was able to sleep through the night without a stuffy nose. I knew it was helping him and I knew other mothers needed this. So I started sharing with other moms and things just took off.
One thing you’ve learned this year?
I’ve learned so much this year. I’d say the most important thing I’ve learned is to put my marriage first. I was putting my son and business first, of course these two are incredibly important but I’ve learned when I put my marriage up there with as important as my son and business I’m the most successful.
What inspires you?
There is so much that inspires me. I’m inspired by the healing journey I see so many people choosing these days. To get healthy and stay healthy. Choosing to live and not just survive. Choosing to use holistic approaches instead of conventional. That is inspiring to me. I’m inspired by other women entrepreneurs that have families and are still getting it done and being successful. I’m inspired by healthy marriages and friendships. I’m inspired by people who keep their peace when everything seems to be thrown at them.
If you could give yourself advice when you started your business what would it have been?
Pace yourself. I’m very thankful for my start and how quickly things grew and succeeded. I’m so thankful. I would have just paced myself and hired my team sooner than I did. It was just me for a while. Then my husband said I needed to hire someone, so we did! And I’m so thankful for her.
How do you relax after a stressful day?
I try not to have stressful days anymore. I work hard to stay calm and focused by drinking a lot of water, one cup of green tea and keeping a balanced diet. Stress can cause a lot of health issues. So I take CBD and certain vitamins, minerals and supplements to help my body stay in a peaceful state. If a stressful moment sneaks up on me I will use calming essential oils and sit in my portable sauna for 30 minutes to sweat and read some scriptures to help.
Are there any tools you use that help you in your business?
Emily has been a wonderful resource and tool for Purely. I have a beautiful website because of her and I know my business runs better because of her help and expertise.
Any new products or exciting things in the works for Purely Elderberry? Or future dream?
Purely will be announcing new products this winter! We will have our first full line of nourishing Teas. I’ve always loved tea, and I’ve always been a green tea drinker. There are so many benefits to drinking tea or sipping on it through out the day. It’s filled with minerals and nutrients that our body needs. I’m excited to share this line.
My future dream is to have Purely Elderberry and Wellness in every Whole Foods, MOMs Organic Market, and Natural Food Store across America! I know how much it has helped our family and the many families that have purchased, so I’d like to grow and help millions.
You can learn more about Perry and order her delicious products at www.purelyelderberrywellness.com or by following her on social media at @purelyelderberry.
How Could You Be Misunderstood?
What I’ve learned from asking interviewee’s “what are your three biggest weaknesses?”.
What I’ve Learned From Asking Interviewees “What Are Your Biggest Weaknesses?”
I recently read an article that featured Stacey Valy Panayiotou, the senior vice president of global talent and development at Coca-Cola. She shared that her favorite interview questions were “How could you be misunderstood?” and “How can people get the wrong impression of you, and what do you do about that perception?”. I liked her alternative to the age-old interview question “What is your biggest weakness?”.
While conducting job interviews, I have asked dozens of individuals what their “three biggest weaknesses” were. I typically received one of three types of answers:
Spinning a strength into a weakness.
I’m sorry, but saying you “work too hard” is a cop-out answer.
“I can’t think of any.”
If, after sharing a weakness of my own, the interviewee still couldn’t pinpoint a weakness, I would tell them I don’t hire anyone without weaknesses. Because we ALL have weaknesses and what matters to me is that you’re aware and working on them.
An honest, articulate, self-aware answer.
This was the minority of individuals I’ve interviewed but it was always refreshing to hear. There were the few who shared startling honest weaknesses which were red flags for hiring (you can work on your theft problem elsewhere) but, for the most part, their honesty spoke to their credit.
I’ve learned that sometimes asking this question proved fruitful; however, it was often too flat and generic. So I adopted Panayiotou’s questions into my interview process as they are less intimidating for the interviewee. Her questions bring in a dualistic dynamic by accounting for not only the individual but how self-aware they are towards how their actions are perceived.
While this is technically an interview question, I think it’s good for everyone to ask themselves this question. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to wait until I’m prepping for a job interview to figure out how I could be misunderstood. Unsure where to start? Get input from those around you — family, friends, coworkers. Learning how you are perceived can reduce frustration for you and the people around you…and we all want that!
