tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48169614021935633772024-03-05T12:20:47.537-05:00alexandra fergusonRead about the trials and tribulations of running a handmade housewares company, check out cool items that I find on my internet travels, and other wacky thoughts I have that might be interesting to someone else out there other than myself.alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-67291163919646395482014-03-14T14:42:00.001-04:002014-03-14T14:46:59.059-04:00Fitness-inspring giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT09Gycp1UU85RK8svJ3G2cEtsDgn5xTFZEFOLaPwLAqkMU4L-ourvkNgPpSL84T775A0xT8v-8WMSSqu2VS97NFag2pwsN8gP2pMmdcD97vmnVQ32vRoVKzYKodBajHKjvKgI1HFwwQ/s1600/MYP-148-CRTU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT09Gycp1UU85RK8svJ3G2cEtsDgn5xTFZEFOLaPwLAqkMU4L-ourvkNgPpSL84T775A0xT8v-8WMSSqu2VS97NFag2pwsN8gP2pMmdcD97vmnVQ32vRoVKzYKodBajHKjvKgI1HFwwQ/s1600/MYP-148-CRTU.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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We can't wait to shake off our winter hibernation and get our bodies moving again.<br />
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To celebrate warmer days ahead, and in honor of our exercise-inspiring pillows, we are dedicating this month to getting fit.<br />
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Join us to inspire breaking a sweat by sharing your favorite part of your workout. Maybe it is watching the sunrise on your morning jog, looking awesome in your favorite jeans, or conquering a new milestone on the treadmill - we want share in that endorphin rush, and maybe even use it to get others to do the same. Simply post your comments and photos to Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and tag with <b>#makeyourselfproud</b>.<br />
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We will choose our favorite, and one lucky winner will receive a special "Go to the gym" gift basket stuffed with 3 of our exercise pillows, a makeup case and our medium travel bag (value $349). Winner will be announced on May 1, 2014 on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/alexandrafergusonllc" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page. Please note giveaway only open to US residents 18 years or older.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlWFuNiusp5LO57eZXbCnAGGw63eVB_5YvlOB5rm-xu57n3ok5kYk83AMwp2N3AZGLyzAZWoCHTf5MEcCedgsqRFThQZ5L3O3e5hHWn7FPj5X41th5TnGBv2lLyHXdUaovbortlfO8qw/s1600/fitness-giveaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixlWFuNiusp5LO57eZXbCnAGGw63eVB_5YvlOB5rm-xu57n3ok5kYk83AMwp2N3AZGLyzAZWoCHTf5MEcCedgsqRFThQZ5L3O3e5hHWn7FPj5X41th5TnGBv2lLyHXdUaovbortlfO8qw/s1600/fitness-giveaway.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-64790426792373942732013-12-03T18:23:00.003-05:002013-12-03T18:23:38.854-05:00Gift Guide for the men in your lifeGuys can be the hardest people to shop for. <br />
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Women? We're so easy! (hehe) From hobbies and crafts, fashion clothing and accessories to jewelry or gadgets - I rarely hear someone say that their mom, wife, sister, or (female) best friend are the difficult people on their lists.<br />
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But fathers? Brothers? Even the occasional husband? We barely got through last year, is it time to do it again already?!<br />
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Well, lo and behold, we've got a slew of styles that I constantly see men magnetized to. So fret no more. I got you on this one.<br />
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Below, see my "men-approved" picks for this holiday season. Shop online by clicking the captions below each image, or go straight to our <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men.html" target="_blank">mens gift guide on our website here</a>. <br />
(Remember, we are currently running a promo code for free shipping using coupon FREESHIP at checkout.)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpv11Xgi58xOpArFkx6GuINjArNCHEb8gwyZ5pL33nJM1VvNtoCv1w28ZJ8lZVlkBj1lXrytnld2Tnapydi7mXPqselPQfL9ZvrlnuW7QyuBAxX_S5MilEqB1Rit6J4Cc8bH4b9E_0D_c/s1600/ITWAS-16-OATU+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpv11Xgi58xOpArFkx6GuINjArNCHEb8gwyZ5pL33nJM1VvNtoCv1w28ZJ8lZVlkBj1lXrytnld2Tnapydi7mXPqselPQfL9ZvrlnuW7QyuBAxX_S5MilEqB1Rit6J4Cc8bH4b9E_0D_c/s200/ITWAS-16-OATU+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/it-wasnt-me-16.html" target="_blank">Hands down, the #1 pillow that men relate to. Apparently, it's something they find themselves saying a lot - sound familiar?</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/i-try-to-behave-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LX_3520AsC6StLszkHJMDr7qm2DojkbHNnRhlf0zZMnTQKVyw5iWNxZ-WJEXEz_zbKI0YfXtE15X_5P3PUYvQ5XPR85KgMlMxoLckEVYFvZyaX6lWe22lQrmKUoE1l3Z5YCgsMWRY7s/s200/ITTBV-16-CHWH.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/i-try-to-behave-16.html" target="_blank">A fun style to pair with "It Wasn't Me," at least we know our favorite guy always has the best intentions...even if things maybe go awry every now and again...</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYUZSJMMuIhGe_UqqPfa4s5Ljq6meSM64k9pePN5QF5qJ0z_BKEeCDmMSopzCVrCZ2hr1SwEMSAJ8aa11kRguHrb6KpPvtMjt3fxpqZ2nwemxKLcruHS5L0GmvtMaW8kz0-7fU8m9XyRY/s1600/TWRS-16-CHTU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYUZSJMMuIhGe_UqqPfa4s5Ljq6meSM64k9pePN5QF5qJ0z_BKEeCDmMSopzCVrCZ2hr1SwEMSAJ8aa11kRguHrb6KpPvtMjt3fxpqZ2nwemxKLcruHS5L0GmvtMaW8kz0-7fU8m9XyRY/s200/TWRS-16-CHTU.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/there-were-rules-16.html" target="_blank">After all, you can't be blamed for breaking something you didn't know existed in the first place.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/awesome-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYzwC-b_PjqdfjxIWJtVl0FT4-8O7g71wbXBv3iuehruAh6rDu4mAbT6JjKe4RSwI-9bVS1oYMIF2rvxqKKTvAnjB8e4FVu8BL-otyAu5YCOYRe7rIuPjlF-M_4SyOOJCP8I4jpLVslI/s200/AWE-16-CROR.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/awesome-16.html" target="_blank">Simple phrase for a simple guy.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/thisishappening-148.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc3IdbnJm8mShg-_P6enEclmEH3ZUWWrIzb1f0OtZP0XlgUrIR8ym57el8NdW70BNFFnJQO4Agv9w15yxV5GnQ4TmnY6SyQ0xPUGYiSY-UxVcsYg5dGZy9OROEl8XOTCB7dMgRAJXE-rc/s200/TIH-148-OARE.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/thisishappening-148.html" target="_blank">This is actually my boyfriend's favorite phrase. He and his friends say it all the time. Chances are, your guy does too. </a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/man-cave-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavxqBduZT3mvjtFa3PfoHdiYD5jXrYRXYNG8emV4-6hU4tPP2NALPcxnn2G1MbKaumYxZ7foT9u22MCeZ6cpW_85gw5aEXicwTR5ElTIno8CabU23-UFa9tGQUGbSxj3PaRhWzHAmtSI/s200/MANCV-16-BLCH.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/man-cave-16.html" target="_blank">One of our most popular styles - this classic in steely black & charcoal makes sure his space is clearly defined.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/super-hero-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv7kCRTpB5fxaBH0_bTcdcHE4_mWrDLVpyJHJajCby8xZmmhRM1euXBz9_X9kRxfQBSFgOqOeE3nIgDKMEU0-RsNKhNSF1WL7LzNU6s-oRSIx4gJWFuqL9GIZrDUsWrvElf6M-xccpYzM/s200/SHERO-148-CROR.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/super-hero-16.html" target="_blank">For the kid at heart, comic book fan or someone who just is a hero, even if he is just your hero, this pillow is sure to make your guy feel loved.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/lets-make-out-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXUnSPpD3Iv9O7DHsuWakaI3jcS-egu4ycqooef_L1rDAptYOCPHdHeOwnO5-8ueYiSnKMFOlSjJ9Nljro0aQq5QFJmIO2AZyTCcRTkREPIWCLaaMxKYb7frXhRCMKdRdM7D6JZgXYym0/s200/LEMAK-16-OARE-web.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You'd be surprised (or maybe not?)<br /><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/lets-make-out-16.html" target="_blank">For boyfriends and husbands, you'd be hard pressed to get any pushback on this one.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/yes-dear-104.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEs41bmdnk4iJS6vB_785tzCKohOVXHwG_I9RPrKy6a4K2LbRj1kkL5RfNn-hOkZpp8SXtBDBWsawHz_w8V_ZQZ7BbwQWPqIYVfQrVZ5j2MoDPkukyPQKbG7DD__LaWsVOKjvyOfu3UGE/s200/YDEAR-104-HTOA.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/yes-dear-104.html" target="_blank">One of our best sellers amongst men and women alike - this pillow (and the one below) are super popular for couples to give to each other, and sure to get some chuckles...</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/youre-right-148.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_Yw0fUE4VuqOC3BqVKxzOlbVWxXVfM5aTdBbcF7RpujrnNN6gf-jyIRm4J_MTs7pRRbr75OTx_7WKlahquCbgenXntX2NQ7Ma4fbCFDTq1ZBRfzgjBYT0kNHiN39bISQAceQTPfBMJU/s200/YOURI-148-OARE-web.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/youre-right-148.html" target="_blank">Probably two of the hardest words to say, and yet what many people just long to hear. Promise this one will warm the heart of your guy - and who knows? You might even train him to return the favor.</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/call-your-mother-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBW9do3bUuVhlaqTgD1858AT_E6ZCQu4N5aFqe8MBbwP_Ltj85vMnbX6yxAIwp_98mTPlwM_d_VfbkxZGK6rQOCo78TXcCS4yJCIfd_J9id3dfB5dwbOZlQgfBSOXBONGbETbpyNFqmbU/s200/CYMOT-16-OACH1000.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men/call-your-mother-16.html" target="_blank">I like to call this one "the gift that keeps on giving." One of our all time best sellers for moms to give to their offspring.</a></td></tr>
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Shop our "Men's Gift Guide" on our website by clicking this <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/gift-guide-men.html" target="_blank">link</a>.</div>
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Happy holidays!</div>
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-9973347619259100112013-10-07T18:12:00.001-04:002013-10-07T18:12:54.015-04:00Introducing our new makeup cases!We've had our new makeup cases in production for the last couple weeks, and wow! They are simply adorable. I can't tell you my delight watching these colorful little jewels pile up on our shipping table as they started making their way to some of our favorite retailers last week. They were everything I wanted them to be when I first decided to design them.<br />
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And starting today, they are available for $29 each on our website: <a href="http://alexandraferguson.com/">alexandraferguson.com</a>!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVCu8JIj-mGlFTfXsgpsdolizqSrglywl-M1vsQcU5JQxs1ztVt3Xd4sTxHnVfZs3_IVouBHJQcj74Qbj7JcnmdTRCkfltnJ3JWOg6oOq74_E1WW2uBU3fIvGP7clFcGfe3GQLDVh1b0/s1600/ALL+CASES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyVCu8JIj-mGlFTfXsgpsdolizqSrglywl-M1vsQcU5JQxs1ztVt3Xd4sTxHnVfZs3_IVouBHJQcj74Qbj7JcnmdTRCkfltnJ3JWOg6oOq74_E1WW2uBU3fIvGP7clFcGfe3GQLDVh1b0/s320/ALL+CASES.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is everything you might want to know about them:<br />
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We have used our signature applique technique to cut out letters from 100% recycled felt, and stitched them down one by one. Then we punched it up with bold color blocking, using a contrasting zipper and re-inforced bottom panel. Designs include, "XOXO," "LOVE," "OMG," "WTF," "LUXE," "HOT," and "GO."<br />
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The cases are made in our factory in Brooklyn from 100% organic cotton canvas. We've used our signature 100% recycled felt (from plastic bottles) for the letters and the re-inforced base. And they are fully lined in acetate. And don't worry - you don't have to worry if your foundation bottle has a leak or you forget to put the cap on a pen - the cases are machine washable! Just set the machine on cold water on the delicates cycle, and line dry. If you must iron, make sure to keep the heat setting low or you risk melting the felt.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAaDRnKAc-MtTYauv63PF72hN1zdzG8Ny6wwziqK3X9shot3bFr9QgJigb4qqpb9LCILlBvcg2645exJPWrz_sMzCxSTMz-J1-CyIjY4KIJDX9KdbiGBfTmREQO538OXEuewv_hly01c/s1600/OMG-MC-CROR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheAaDRnKAc-MtTYauv63PF72hN1zdzG8Ny6wwziqK3X9shot3bFr9QgJigb4qqpb9LCILlBvcg2645exJPWrz_sMzCxSTMz-J1-CyIjY4KIJDX9KdbiGBfTmREQO538OXEuewv_hly01c/s320/OMG-MC-CROR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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They measure 11" wide, 6" high and 2" deep at the bottom. It's the perfect size to throw in your tote bag. We originally thought the cases would be perfect for makeup, but have been testing them out for everything I need to carry around. On a recent trip, I've used one case to keep my portable electronics chargers, and another case to organize my toiletries such as toothbrush and travel size shampoo (soft construction means they squish really well into suitcase nooks and crannies!). School kids can use them for pencil cases, and crafters can keep all sorts of tools such as scissors and small tape dispensers. Let us know - what will YOU use them for?!<br />
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And yes - you probably want to watch this space for further brand extensions in the upcoming months...(Did someone say tote bag?!). But in the meantime, we'd love to get your feedback! If you have any questions about the cases, or would like to tell us what you think, please send us an email at <a href="mailto:info@alexandraferguson.com">info@alexandraferguson.com</a>. <br />
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-34024399360597296322013-10-01T19:08:00.001-04:002013-10-01T19:17:42.479-04:00{Factory Girl} Month 2I've always thought of myself as a factory girl. When I worked in the fashion industry in New York in my twenties, I worked with local factories in the garment center of Manhattan to have salesman samples made. Then I took the helm of our in-house sample room and managed teams of patternmakers, cutters and sewers. Eventually my career took me to China, where I spent up to 4 months out of the year working with some of the largest factories in southeast Asia. Nothing thrills me more than heavy machinery, the sound of productivity, and a beautifully constructed product.<br />
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As some of you who follow us on our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/alexandrafergusonllc" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page know, on July 23 2013 I got my very own factory. Our new 4,000 sq ft space on the waterfront in Brooklyn was, literally, a dream come true. <br />
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Until that point, my company, <b>alexandra ferguson,</b> had been based in New Rochelle in Westchester County, a suburb of New York City where I grew up. The first pillows I ever made in the first few months after launching our <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a> in January 2009 were in my living room of my loft apartment. There was a photo of me sewing in my living room with my sunglasses on, late afternoon sun streaming through the windows with probably CNN running on the television in the background. I can't to find it, which is a bummer. <br />
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By spring of that first year, we moved all the bolts of fabric and supplies to my mom's garage and set up shop. Talk about *big time.* Now, in fairness, this wasn't your typical garage space. My mom had hand stenciled the floors, and together we had painted the walls with folk art inspired trees over white washed wood paneling. The only heat source was an old fashioned wood burning stove (which kicked some serious heat) and double glass sliding doors opened up to the garden. For a year and a half, I toiled away with a small team in this lovely little space. When I worked evening shifts, my mom would pop her head in to announce dinner was ready. Life was good.<br />
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By the summer of 2011, we were bursting out of the space. Thankfully when the weather was nice, we spilled our packaging into the lawn and prayed it wouldn't rain before the UPS truck showed up.<br />
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Fortunately my loft apartment about a mile away was zoned as a work/live space. So I personally moved out, and the company moved in. Heat that could be turned on with a button, my own private office and a sprawling 800 square foot work room felt truly luxurious. <br />
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One of our online retailers, <a href="http://vau.lt/">Vau.lt</a>, came in and shot this <a href="http://vimeo.com/46076504" target="_blank">super fun 2 minute video</a> where we demonstrate our process. You can watch it <a href="http://vimeo.com/46076504">here.</a> This was definitely the only day (dare I say, hour) that the space looked this clean and tidy. We had designated areas for cutting base panels, sewing machines and packaging. We learned to pile boxes 4 high, make tables serve double and triple duty, and organize our supply chain to ship us exactly what we needed when we needed it. By the holidays of 2012, we were storing our inventory of shipping boxes in the kitchen with only enough room to crack the fridge door open to grab a soda can. It was a great exercise in efficiency. <br />
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Shortly after the company turned 4, it had become clear that it was time to move again. There were some important criteria: the new space would be in the outer boroughs of New York so that we could tap into a larger talent pool to build our team. It had to be light and airy, close to public transportation and in a safe neighborhood. And it had to fit our budget.<br />
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The search took 3 months, and in the end we decided on a raw industrial loft space in <a href="http://bushterminal.com/" target="_blank">Industry City</a>. It was perfect. Sweeping views from the 6th floor of New York Harbor, including downtown manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. Wall to wall wrap around windows. And over 4x the space we were currently in. Manual operated freight elevators and loading docks felt like a luxury that I couldn't wait to indulge in.<br />
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On Tuesday July 23rd, the moving truck came. On wednesday, our sewing machines were delivered. By Friday, the sweet sound of needle and thread joining fabric together could be heard echoing in the space. For all I knew, it sounded like Mozart. How we pulled off manufacturing within 3 days of the move is a miracle in human determination that I will never fully understand. But boy, I do know that I've never worked so hard in my life as I did this summer.<br />
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Custom steel 10' high aqua colored shelving running the length of our 120' long wall was one of my most delightful purchases.</div>
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So here we are! 2 months in to our new space. Besides real estate, what's different? <br />
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-We've grown our team to 8 full time employees (and still hiring!)<br />
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-we've consolidated all of our manufacturing under one roof<br />
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-due to efficiencies of scale, we were able to lower our prices 15%<br />
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-we introduced a brand new category of personal accessories. This week we did our first production run of candy colored makeup cases! Look for them in stores and on the web within about a week.<br />
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-we have "greened up" our shipping by installing a custom built pillow "compressor" which will dramatically slash shipping costs, packaging materials as well as our carbon footprint. (go, team, go!)<br />
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Our custom built pillow compressor</div>
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-we have teamed up with our neighbors: our latest batch of hangtags were printed on the 3rd floor. Our makeup case panels were cut in a cutting room on the 5th floor. And we will start working with a silkscreen printer across the courtyard later this week. My landlord has officially become my sourcing agent, simply by recommending other tenants in the complex.<br />
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Most of all, I am so excited to be part of the growing movement of makers who are bringing manufacturing back to the States. Everyday I'm reading articles about different factories who have carved out new niches for themselves, jobs being created in communities that desperately needed them, and an overall spark of energy in the air. This is such a great space to be working in right now and I feel so lucky to be in the middle of it.<br />
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What can I say? So far, with two months under our belt...yes, it's everything this factory girl dreamed it would be.<br />
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-34410872339378896792013-04-30T23:25:00.004-04:002013-04-30T23:27:42.372-04:00Better buckle up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Love this sign we spotted over the weekend outside of Seattle, WA</div>
<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-38685090716754003862013-04-01T18:08:00.000-04:002013-04-01T18:12:49.528-04:00Shaking up my own status quo: How I went from whiny "no" to unstoppable "yes"<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/house-rules/here-comes-trouble-148.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlLkKbr6rQi62cO5pjMcapdubo5aoM_AH52WJEqo7Ith2xZC9r2StXsHtLYecdxtwDac_SfCqeXFiygMqQF75CJFtTmaNyxWQr76iGUUFZsNbDmYcUgs0m1bVnwcx1Mmf_E6KndCOq3k/s320/HCTRO-148-CHFU-WEB+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></i></blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Here's to the crazy
ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square
holes. The ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules. And they
have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them,
glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can't do is ignore them.
Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some
may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy
enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”</span></i></blockquote>
<blockquote style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Calibri;">― Apple Inc.</span></i></div>
</blockquote>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It got to a point where I wasn’t invited to meetings
anymore. As the decisions came down and
the to-do list itemized, my face would get whiter and whiter. In terror, I repeated blindly, “it can’t be
done. It’s too much, we’ll never finish
on time.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m somewhere in my mid-twenties, running sample rooms for
some of NY’s hottest designers. My job
is to manage a team of patternmakers and sewers to transform a designer’s
sketch into the clothes that ultimately went down the runway. By the time fashion week was upon us, we had
been working 7 days a week into the small hours of the night for weeks on end,
living off of a rotation of delivery services for meals and starved of the
company of our friends and family. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The final days before the show were the most challenging
emotionally. Run down, my reaction to
being overwhelmed manifested as frustration – this is impossible! Why am I being set up to fail?! Sometimes I would lock myself away in the
bathroom, crawl into a ball on the floor, and just cry.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But my fear of deep humiliation if the clothes weren’t ready
for the runway was stronger than my conviction that I couldn’t do it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I sat in the meetings and repeated “no, no, no” until I
wore out my welcome, and then, faking confidence as best I could, set to work
with my team to do everything we possibly could to try and get it all
done. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Amazingly enough, every single season we put a gorgeous
collection down the runway. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After many years of this routine, with the bar set higher
and higher each season, I had become a broken record of “can’t” and “no.” And worse yet, my track record was appalling –
I had been wrong every single time. My limited
belief in myself was making me deeply unhappy, damaging my credibility with my
peers, and holding me back from career superstardom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/house-rules/no-whining-148.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxuphfRGXunnFvK2aneKIgA2L9XyGEiO_yI9QlmRcZf6dezoissvAbIqXODObfFpyW9C6QWKkllQyD_GA-N9g5tra92Z7StMGMhX9jB_MYOgzA-iOs8G6PJ_l9ZqlXHurEvS6_0alXhHg/s200/NOWHI-148-OACH.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So when I took a big job to run product development with an
overseas team, I challenged my internal status quo and decided to go from “no”
to “yes.” Now it was my turn to ask
people to do more, faster and for less cost than they ever thought
possible. “I know it's crazy, but you can do it,” I would
promise, drawing on deep reserves of resourcefulness and patience learned from
my runway days. “How about we try it
again this way…” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once I had <b>convinced
myself</b> that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to, it was easy to
get my team on board, and together, knock our goals out the park. Within a year, I was negotiating with
monolithic factories to rebuild their machines, rethink their minimum order
requirements, meet aggressive calendar dates and slash costs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
With that magical 3-letter word, “yes,” I transformed into
an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.
“Here comes trouble!” the Chief of Operations would cry out when he
heard the click-clack of my heels approaching his office. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, what do you need me to do?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/house-rules/there-were-rules-16.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4nCRbkFIq7rtSBgZ9B4wYcMXiv-WYOcom6GCMhpMwt8SMdwtwrVQSShtlZqQbIhLl2S25veQveYnU80_Sgn3jcUJpGAvUhyphenhyphenNyLtpDKY25oGFNajG-PukpekF9zMz9JQKyEbwVzhJzSgE/s320/TWRS-16-CHTU.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_1767876748"></span><span id="goog_1767876749"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
6 STEPS TO BECOMING A TROUBLEMAKER:</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://pinterest.com/alexandrahome" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXyHQThog3qJoizMQTP1ULpspABdhLfpAPPY7oGrxZDVIasSzHIimGBd8NnIgAwS0Sfrns4mBj9NF224NXNUNGqeQMfnwNmUFXOJYDF4oLQz3hsFsOD1IzxxbqC77rPeRPHR6Qx3lUppg/s320/what+is+a+comfort+zone.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Observe yourself - red flag any time you hold
yourself back with “no” or “I can’t do that.”</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Challenge your set of assumptions that lead you
to “no” – are they valid?</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Play it out in
your head – what would happen if you said “yes” instead?</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Fake it ‘till you make it: faking confidence in
my abilities didn't have the same magical results as truly believing in it, but was still an
incredibly effective tool and led to a string of victories to lean on.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Practice!</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">
</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">I found that saying “yes” is MUCH harder than saying “no.”</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The confidence to back it takes time to
develop (8 years in my case).</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">So be patient with yourself and
take baby steps.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Save your “no” for when you really mean it.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">When I made a habit of saying “yes,” I found
my “no” became very powerful.</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Best of all, let the joy and the passion of your
new confidence come through – it’s contagious and inspiring.</span> </li>
</ul>
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FINAL THOUGHT:<o:p></o:p></div>
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An art teacher of mine in high school, Sr. Anne, had a lot
of students tell her they were not artists.
“I can’t even draw a straight line!” they would say. <o:p></o:p></div>
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“Well thank goodness,” she would reply, “because there is
nothing more boring than a straight line.
Now give me the best curves, zigs and zags you have.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-61992305941948421092013-03-29T12:31:00.000-04:002013-03-29T12:31:04.645-04:00Felt scraps put the the cutest useThis month we are launching a new program to re-use and recycle all the colorful fabric scraps that come from manufacturing our pillows. <br />
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They are perfect for all sorts of community art programs - from schools to hospitals. We've already begun our outreach and will start shipping out USPS Large Flat Rate boxes next week to several programs in the tri-state area.<br />
<br />
If you think you would be able to use our scraps for your program, please send us an email at <a href="mailto:info@alexandraferguson.com">info@alexandraferguson.com</a>. The fabric scraps are free, and all we ask is that you cover the $16.85 shipping cost. <br />
<br />
Meanwhile, to get you started with some ideas, check out these <i>adorable </i>little Easter chicks made by <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/" target="_blank">alexandra ferguson</a> Roving Ambassador, Charlotte (Alexandra's mom)! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9m2Hvw7Y44NBgqQIyoukEPbH9UVBI8m91R7o4sLVqn-Eqd61zrxYV_cmLpanK3l4vofqS3YcNGRES-Yxg_qtyNXIP452c6pyZNeWzN_ZajfUAuY2wc7l3ojx7wsQuxojb-BADuCJC88/s1600/EASTER+CHICKENS3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH9m2Hvw7Y44NBgqQIyoukEPbH9UVBI8m91R7o4sLVqn-Eqd61zrxYV_cmLpanK3l4vofqS3YcNGRES-Yxg_qtyNXIP452c6pyZNeWzN_ZajfUAuY2wc7l3ojx7wsQuxojb-BADuCJC88/s320/EASTER+CHICKENS3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-46218560823636245162012-11-12T20:17:00.001-05:002012-11-12T20:17:32.298-05:00Small business holidays - Post #1: Peek...aren't you curious?I am in the incredibly fortunate position of being an aunt to possibly the cutest 2 year old little boy named Ben. <br />
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Now, finding cute boys clothing is so much harder than finding cute girls clothing. Which means that every time I do find it, I simply have to buy it. Christmas around the corner is a technical excuse.<br />
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<a href="http://peekkids.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/130x160/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/k/bk018-6618_hgy_1_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" id="image_0" src="http://peekkids.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/thumbnail/130x160/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/b/k/bk018-6618_hgy_1_5.jpg" width="162" /></a>This past weekend, I went on a store visit to <a href="https://www.treasureandbond.com/site/" target="_blank">Treasure & Bond</a> in SoHo where I discovered <a href="http://peekkids.com/" target="_blank">Peek</a> and bought this {made in the USA} T-shirt that says <a href="http://peekkids.com/brave-men-tee-4016" target="_blank">"Brave men run in my family." </a><br />
<br />
It's especially perfect as Ben's dad, my brother Max, is a Captain in the U.S. Army, and I'm proud to say, especially being Veteran's Day today, that nothing could be more true. <br />
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They only seem to have large sizes on the <a href="http://peekkids.com/brave-men-tee-4016" target="_blank">Peek website</a> or if you are in NYC, you should definitely check out <a href="https://www.treasureandbond.com/site/" target="_blank">Treasure & Bond</a>. Extra cool about Treasure is that they donate 100% of profits to charities benefiting children in NYC.<br />
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And we just shipped them their opening order of <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/" target="_blank">alexandra ferguson</a> pillows. So obviously, their 'cool' factor just got epic.<br />
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alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-77113751729103689322012-11-09T11:36:00.001-05:002012-11-09T11:36:38.351-05:00Gift Tags by alexandra fergusonGift with purchase!<br />
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The experience of unwrapping a gift can be one of the most delightful things this time of year. So we thought we'd add a little alexandra ferguson sass to it with our super fun gift tag stickers.<br />
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You know the little side-explanations you say when you hand your gift to someone? Those were the inspiration behind these tags. Have fun with them - I think you'll find the perfect tag for each gift on your list this year.<br />
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And the best news yet is that we are including a sheet of them FREE with every order on <a href="http://alexandraferguson.com/">alexandraferguson.com</a>, from now until December 20th. <br />
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-48111867462201195082012-11-08T23:22:00.001-05:002012-11-08T23:22:58.656-05:00Small business holidays - Post #1, Charley Harper Dining WareGift buying is one of my favorite things to do. Often I'll be thinking of clever ideas months in advance. I listen up year-round for clues and ideas, and think carefully about what item matches each person's personality, and then scour the market for the most beautiful version of it.<br />
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Not lying - I bought a stocking stuffer for my mom in August. It's a velvet beaded Union Jack tree ornament I found in London during the Olympics. She is English, and her New York home has a serious case of Anglo-fever. So now the christmas tree can be branded as well. Trust me - it's perfect.<br />
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(She's not very high tech - low risk I've just spoiled the fun for her ;)<br />
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This year, I'm adding a layer of fun and making a pledge to do all my holiday shopping with small businesses. <br />
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My parameters are self-defined. Generally I want to shop independent retailers and e-commerce sites (like the ones I sell to) and buy products from small designers (like me). Either/or, good. Both? BAM!<br />
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Big box stores with mass produced goods? Not this year. <br />
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I love nothing more than a challenge, and I think my friends and family will get the most interesting and fun gifts ever. <br />
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So, more things I love:<br />
1. Dining ware & tabletop accessories<br />
2. Birds in art<br />
3. Mid-century modern aesthetics, bold graphics, color blocking<br />
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Conclusion: <a href="http://www.charleyharperartstudio.com/" target="_blank">Charley Harper</a> is one of my most favorite artists, and WHAM! Todd Oldham partners with Fishs Eddy (incredible NYC eclectic dishes store) to put Charley Harper images on glasses, plates and trays. <br />
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I left their email blast announcement open on my computer for two days to let my pitter-patter heart calm down.<br />
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<img alt="Birds Glasses (Box of 4) - Click Image to Close" height="200" src="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/images/4BirdsGlasses.jpg" title=" Birds Glasses (Box of 4) - Click Image to Close " width="137" /><img alt="Flamboyant Feathers Platter (14") - Click Image to Close" height="200" src="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/images/FlamboyantFeathersPlatter.jpg" title=" Flamboyant Feathers Platter (14") - Click Image to Close " width="198" /><img alt="Fish & Waterfall Small Tray (8") - Click Image to Close" height="200" src="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/images/GOL111108_big.jpg" title=" Fish & Waterfall Small Tray (8") - Click Image to Close " width="200" /><br />
Don't forget mugs, dishtowels and aprons. (Seriously, you even did an apron?)<br />
<img alt="Upside Downside Dish-Towel - Click Image to Close" height="200" src="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/images/UpsideDownsideDishtowel.jpg" title=" Upside Downside Dish-Towel - Click Image to Close " width="153" /><br />
Cereal bowl fetish? Meet Big Fish.<br />
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<img alt="Big Fish Bowl (20 fl. oz.) - Click Image to Close" height="200" src="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/images/GOL111105_big.jpg" title=" Big Fish Bowl (20 fl. oz.) - Click Image to Close " width="200" /><br />
Available for sale on charleyharperartstudio.com or <a href="https://charleyharperartstudio.com/shop/DiningWare/FishsEddy?zenid=7t6uIbhNR8yDUClxgnWHTkhOXW2" target="_blank">click here</a><br />
<br />
(Wait - is this series of blogs going to turn into a list of things I'd like my friends to buy for me?? No, no, promise...it's just that sometimes I find the gift before I find the recipient...and keep in mind, I do include myself on my list of people to buy presents for...and I'm OK with all that.)<br />
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-10112642122241750132012-10-31T19:38:00.000-04:002012-10-31T19:38:28.089-04:00I love this placeI'll admit it. I didn't take Sandy seriously until Monday night around 10pm when 90mph winds finally knocked our power out.<br />
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Take away a girl's ability to blow dry her hair, and it's amazing how fast she will start paying attention.<br />
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Suddenly starved of never-ending television news feed, the fear of not knowing took over. I lay in bed listening to the wind, waiting for the ominous crack of "that tree" to come crashing through the roof above my head.<br />
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In the morning, a friend called on my dwindling cell phone to report in - the subways, the tunnels, the fires, the failed generator in the hospital...described in vivid, horrifying detail. "I have to go. My battery is dying." I didn't want to hear any more. It was only 8am - what else was yet to be reported? I felt guilty for being so cavalier about the threats all weekend. <br />
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OK, Sandy. You win this one. <br />
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All morning, as the pictures and the stories unfolded, I felt on the brink of tears with a vague nausea in my stomach. Surviving the storm suddenly seemed like the easy part - now it looked like long dreary weeks lay ahead of us to slowly put the city back together. Adrenaline rush over, I yearned for normal life. <br />
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But then something cool happened. Then the victories started coming out. Amidst the rubble, cool things were happening - things that were BETTER than if Sandy hadn't visited. <br />
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My downtown NYC friends without power or water migrated north, camping out together, chatting the evening away over bottles of wine. Someone told me they had to reschedule a very stressful interview in Florida, which meant 5 more weeks of angst, but also 5 more weeks to prepare, and next time she won't have to rush back so she is going to make a holiday out of it. My friend recovering from surgery last week got to spend this week working calmly from home, healing and relaxing. <br />
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For me, our *awesome* <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/slideshow/2012/10/21/fashion/20121021-REGISTRY-1.html" target="_blank">New York Times</a> feature in the Sunday Styles section had a captive audience all day Monday, on top of Sunday, and we had near record breaking sales.<br />
<br />
And suddenly, with so much gone, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude for the things I had left. My home still has no power, but thankfully my studio was powered up. So we plan to take hot showers and cook meals here for the next week or so until the grid comes back on. It's inconvenient. But rather than complain, I find myself thanking the Universe all day long. Staples was open and I got to buy printer ink - Yes!! Printer ink!!<br />
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There are so many tragic stories from Sandy's devastation. So many people who have it so much worse than me, and my heart goes out to them. But I also believe that from every tragedy, comes something good. Even if it's a tiny thing. And it doesn't make up for all the bad things, but maybe it offsets it a little bit. Like meeting a new friend. Or spending evenings by candlelight talking with your family, instead of glazed over the television. Or simply experiencing the sincere kindness that people show one another in desperate times. Sandy, like other tragedies before her, has brought out the best in us. I'm proud to be a New Yorker, and I'm reminded how much I love this place. <br />
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So, in a strange way, thanks Sandy.<br />
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<br />alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-3768005830335550622012-05-11T17:46:00.006-04:002012-05-11T17:46:55.059-04:00Dekalb Market - May 12 & 19 2012If you are local to the NYC area and want a fun experience in this gorgeous May sunshine, come to the Dekalb Market Saturday May 12 and Saturday May 19. I'll be there (with my Roving Ambassador, Mom, in tow) with hundreds of pillows for sale. We've pulled the gamut for this special event - classic best sellers like (holiday appropriate) Call Your Mother and the wedding-season favorite Happily Ever After, to one of a kind rare styles like Empire State and Super! We are pricing them to move, so if you have been a fan of alexandra ferguson and itching for a pillow of your own, this is the event for you. <br />
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For directions and information about the fair, visit <a href="http://dekalbmarket.com/">dekalbmarket.com</a>.<br />
May 12 (day before Mothers Day!!) they are having a live house DJ in the later side of the afternoon. And if the weather is anything like today (which it is supposed to be) I totally expect it to be a rocking good time.alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-42160173678957837292012-03-11T23:30:00.007-04:002012-03-11T23:59:10.854-04:00the labHave you checked out our flagship website, <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/">www.alexandraferguson.com</a> lately? Not only can you find the entire <span style="font-weight: bold;">alexandra ferguson</span> collection there, including favorite best sellers like <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/house-rules/be-nice-or-leave-16.html">"Be Nice or Leave"</a> as well as juicy new styles for Spring 2012 like <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/new/heart-throb-148.html">"Heart Throb"</a> and <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/new/be-brave-148.html">"Be Brave"</a> (personal favorite & motto), but also a sneak peak of NEXT seasons new collections in <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab.html">The Lab</a>.<br /><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/new/be-brave-148.html"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK52TcR9VYtrCFHLy5S6VHfrKS_Gp2O9fUl5_y_AFh4jDwsfKqtP16cGs2lDCKAob1ryokiUswfzmaKXnsRTWX5L42iR-2Zoh-ikx_KthH6hFffPFIn7WkE_ASUsWecu6YDD_qSZXz5H4/s320/BBRV-148-CHFU1000.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718852807416807602" border="0" /></a><br />The really cool thing about The Lab is that I can bring you my latest ideas that I'm just too excited about to save away for another six months. And I know in this little capsule collection that I've just watched some new best sellers be born. Be sure to check out <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/im-great-148.html">"I'm Great,"</a> <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/i-love-this-place-22.html">"I Love This Place,"</a> and <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/i-try-to-behave-16.html">"I Try To Behave."</a> A future classic without doubt is <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/there-were-rules-16.html">"There Were Rules?"</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/im-great-148.html"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPQPmOsxFqCQpl9qZ0tF9krK4J9hfxqjKXGNdI7yenax4oNgoO7n6aPLI38eXD30zSEYffky6qGvI9dCX-mi-7AJepuxntHl2hgoOCwJVzDTEUh7t5trf0CfP14g6h58dUE1URL27agLw/s320/IMGRT-148-CRRE-WEB2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718853089997878946" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/i-love-this-place-22.html"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu3xRIVtDiHRDBaXDhv7dPFY_oU4o8s7CLInIGtI03TDtDQ_QLsTkVeplybvJRVCOp_26QilEj6b7NtFyxSkbsltPCSeEZuVaY7x5ZeX6vIlFLO5bl1Q51Tu5khbn2l0yMtFNqtNhSwr8/s320/ILTP-22-DEOA-WEB2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718853390746159250" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/i-try-to-behave-16.html"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHmlRQqM1mEAbDuev3jpa4lYHM5npwrQ3wJVdsif2yj-1LbeB9feLlh0ZleUjjvRoHf9b-aNpVNGYbbsi8Rn5VF4KLthGzekRe2x77FYryvd0tvKP_VIRDiaLTjVuz4byBlO8bPawgF-Y/s320/ITTBV-16-CHTU-WEB2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718853593120798370" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.com/the-lab/there-were-rules-16.html"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRcro0oKE_PFEGMTZcRM9WUdb3HOaOW-pjAUfW98okzitbj1uxTzJ4BNKuEVK_TmOhbB81JnNdja10lk9oEmOR-1IVhoAthVmhnMEP5XKOjet67CYUJSlsoYxd5N5gGwEEJk-w_RVSTyc/s320/TWRS-16-CHWH-WEB1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718853796193990418" border="0" /></a><br />It's official: I have caught the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Pinterest</span> bug. Follow me as I troll through the web finding things that blow my mind and make me giggle. Personal rule - I'll only pin it if it makes me go "woah." Check it out - <a href="http://pinterest.com/alexandrahome">http://pinterest.com/alexandrahome</a>. You just might get some insight into my quirky little mind.alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-11680353672237337962011-02-10T22:28:00.001-05:002011-02-10T22:30:20.461-05:00Apartment Therapy Meetup - Feb 17th 2011<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "><h3 class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}" style="font-size: 13px; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; "><span class="UIStory_Message">Apartment Therapy has invited me to pitch my line at their next meetup! If you are in the NY tri-state area, it would be an honor if you came!<br />Details:<br />When: Thurs Feb 17th, 6:30-8:30<br />Where: ABC Carpet & Home, Mezzanine<br />19th & Bway, NYC<br /><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; ">Register: <a href="http://www.meetup.com/productdesign-44/events/15726181/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="cursor: pointer; color: rgb(59, 89, 152); text-decoration: none; "><span>www.meetup.com/productdesign-44/events/1</span><wbr><span class="word_break" style="display: block; float: left; margin-left: -10px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "></span>5726181/</a> </span></span></h3><div><span class="UIStory_Message"><span class="text_exposed_show" style="display: inline; "><br /></span></span></div><div><br /></div></span>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-86649452710924179692011-01-26T23:42:00.010-05:002011-01-27T00:07:50.691-05:00Spring / Summer 2011First of all - anyone coming to NYIGF next week, please make sure to stop by the alexandra ferguson booth! We are back in #4129 in the studio division. NYIGF runs from Sunday January 30th through Thursday February 3rd.<br /><br />There was some fantastic press this past fall - House Beautiful was loving on Ooh La La, and Shape Magazine touted Go to the Gym in their December gift guides. Marlo Thomas on aol.com chose Be Nice or Leave and No Whining as two of her top picks for the holiday season.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JC22QTGzEWqofICfWlLjEte5huU3uDzcxc0xtSUOsaBxROeSmi_E-aROPSLouU-tDFlRFcsMpJx97mVtEfvarXJLAcwhAuSZf4Np_88MlgOtgIx41O31MUij4p1jC8rzGgw4i-ai6R8/s1600/House+Beautiful+Dec+2010.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JC22QTGzEWqofICfWlLjEte5huU3uDzcxc0xtSUOsaBxROeSmi_E-aROPSLouU-tDFlRFcsMpJx97mVtEfvarXJLAcwhAuSZf4Np_88MlgOtgIx41O31MUij4p1jC8rzGgw4i-ai6R8/s320/House+Beautiful+Dec+2010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566722696568514642" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgef9gqgPgL2JQ9kkFo9YS6polq1rUsCaT9XEyGYLpeksGedQDRCm1pes32pUodhLmHkTEFemewmLi9f27B-IZ1GP6BxS6MI0hF3e_3XZ1cEiG6qVglx00r2qpAvWGSSXHjndwBFr2n3GE/s1600/Shape+-+Holiday+Gift+Guide.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgef9gqgPgL2JQ9kkFo9YS6polq1rUsCaT9XEyGYLpeksGedQDRCm1pes32pUodhLmHkTEFemewmLi9f27B-IZ1GP6BxS6MI0hF3e_3XZ1cEiG6qVglx00r2qpAvWGSSXHjndwBFr2n3GE/s320/Shape+-+Holiday+Gift+Guide.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566722921775647810" border="0" /><span id="myphotolink"><img style="width: 436px; height: 461px;" src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs473.ash2/74634_184572198220907_120193547992106_638696_8121733_n.jpg" id="myphoto" /></span></a><br /></div><br />This helped to propel the holiday season as the best ever! I loved thinking of all the people opening their presents and receiving their alexandra ferguson pillows...<br /><br />Also super exciting this spring is the re-introduction of the alexandraferguson.com website! Look for the re-design going live by the weekend. Very soon thereafter, the site will be a fully functioning e-commerce site, so you will be able to shop the entire alexandra ferguson collection in one place.<br /><br />As always, we have some great new designs that we are introducing at NYIGF next week. Here is a sneaky preview of my favorites:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyam3Thmu23sE1-W_-ruAEIXdpla59d4_yqyBdDQVTowBQ9_ERTx6wbPoGnWyzlkFWWbbcRz4RZDbzHK5T_yDotfk57W6Oq60Z6aPGtpwf4MHwLRwDgrjXKJG4juyOPQv2CdY5_x4fBK0/s1600/YICAN-148-CHFU.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyam3Thmu23sE1-W_-ruAEIXdpla59d4_yqyBdDQVTowBQ9_ERTx6wbPoGnWyzlkFWWbbcRz4RZDbzHK5T_yDotfk57W6Oq60Z6aPGtpwf4MHwLRwDgrjXKJG4juyOPQv2CdY5_x4fBK0/s320/YICAN-148-CHFU.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566726197763549426" border="0" /></a><br />For the superwoman in your life (or your heart)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1BFyYDfwmSJU44sQ3_xnEDH_mk_PKn0CF-jwLjqnaavlOyO7z1KzxyTUXX6CwBiLh9yfuIMxfDS3e0OBNlLOXmjxPLths4U4hjWCjPvPhAT1RRYgYk9xc6q0EJzqtk7LNh72WCXKgM0/s1600/CHEER-148-OARE-web.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ1BFyYDfwmSJU44sQ3_xnEDH_mk_PKn0CF-jwLjqnaavlOyO7z1KzxyTUXX6CwBiLh9yfuIMxfDS3e0OBNlLOXmjxPLths4U4hjWCjPvPhAT1RRYgYk9xc6q0EJzqtk7LNh72WCXKgM0/s320/CHEER-148-OARE-web.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566726556496031330" border="0" /></a><br />Celebrate every day - as my best friend says, "to us!"<br /><br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy93_MoEvHPXJqe9eKC1XKWN0JXvHLu3Wy4aDSP_f_WlzJcW395MvV21Q3JEbvPcm-Q9eeuWjCK1B3tGdb7vsTjelU_nrGEML5ZYlsms0thg55maqx3WzKRgXWSvkIr8TsL4cJLlmIaKQ/s1600/ATBL-22-CHWH-web.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy93_MoEvHPXJqe9eKC1XKWN0JXvHLu3Wy4aDSP_f_WlzJcW395MvV21Q3JEbvPcm-Q9eeuWjCK1B3tGdb7vsTjelU_nrGEML5ZYlsms0thg55maqx3WzKRgXWSvkIr8TsL4cJLlmIaKQ/s320/ATBL-22-CHWH-web.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566726956084146578" border="0" /></a><br />how many times do you type this symbol everyday? Did you ever appreciate how truly beautiful it is? Herein: my ode to email. (And typography, my love, of course)<br /></div>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-11406820145929183652010-08-06T11:56:00.005-04:002010-08-06T12:10:49.050-04:00NYIGF August 15 - 19 booth #4129<div style="text-align: left;">Sunday August 15th is opening day at NYIGF at the Jacob Javits center in New York.</div><div><br /></div><div>This season I will be in booth #4129 in the Studio division.</div><div><br /></div><div>Look for perennial best sellers - Be Nice or Leave, No Whining and Call Your Mother, as well as some exciting new introductions. </div><div><br /></div><div>A couple of my favorites making their debut next week:</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi600VgAEPz6l127jAgPnGFM7nGyk2y0OP7inupaaZSu3jpL7gcL7D3CtaK8A_oUsc4cIfqbd1XfWYVv85Ohsu1GFG_4zXWk4qaJlLusGM_FUXcs5G8i6U_ZeHe_MANIwyMM7mm87TPuW0/s320/MERDE-OAT+RED.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502329176325360370" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 254px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoxguMimwUbTjytXCtYNGKh19E6WggI4DsCAwX26S9XtOdYfV0QI4KshLMd7Qi2N82n8Hx8YKRCfv5kRsqQsA6cCO8Si0ZH-dm5uFyceUVWi_CvPExAUkSzHjhMxP7AIZKYXBX7sqBHtc/s320/BON+APPETIT-CHAR+WHITE.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502329465189839490" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 237px; " /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1baYbid7YW7csjHJQkV-fFV4Di3j1xOoH28dz6ozpktMJ6HvNPRRL_DJI49Er_uhjbqEKZPVe1RVPmUh4-1Ou5bQcSenerlY-6fPd9syHvqB8-VWkQnTRMdiokpmEyKNojKmABvpmPVE/s320/ILL+EXPLAIN+LATER+-+OAT+BLK.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5502329623963481858" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 294px; " /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></span></div>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-87232171745920425292010-05-13T22:33:00.003-04:002010-05-13T22:38:43.089-04:00Real Big Deal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzY_WY14KC2dAGzPLLdsVqNa8rJhhmaokqDd9e8wZPsVq-n491lWURwKPRpShd6JOpy2Fel0jOzWoPlqCNBYRbUZqKcjveJf6fGtScugtPbVGcwVvGHnHfjGc1wwXogTl67d7sVaJTz8/s1600/REAL+SIMPLE.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXzY_WY14KC2dAGzPLLdsVqNa8rJhhmaokqDd9e8wZPsVq-n491lWURwKPRpShd6JOpy2Fel0jOzWoPlqCNBYRbUZqKcjveJf6fGtScugtPbVGcwVvGHnHfjGc1wwXogTl67d7sVaJTz8/s320/REAL+SIMPLE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470948829543409506" border="0" /></a>First major national publication! Monogram pillows featured on page 74 of the June 2010 issue of Real Simple in the Gift Guide section.alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-71787417571384607142010-04-22T23:41:00.003-04:002010-04-22T23:55:40.776-04:00I became good at Twitter, now let's try FacebookMany of you probably follow me on <a href="http://twitter.com/alexandraHOME">twitter</a> already. I love twitter. Sometimes I post really professional, business related news. Sometimes I rant about traffic (and potholes). Sometimes it's just... <br /><br />I'm about to have my 1,000th tweet moment. Very soon. I think this is something to be proud of. <br /><br />But it's time to step up the game a little bit. <br /><br />alexandra ferguson (that's the company) now has a Facebook page. <br /><br />I'm still trying to figure out how to link to said facebook page. But I did figure out how to put that nifty button on the side bar to the right of the blog. Click that. 'Like' me. Done. Company collective ego boost: +2 points. Thanks.<br /><br />Oh, and Happy Earth Day! Earth Day actually marks the 1 year anniversary since Etsy made me their <a href="http://www.etsy.com/featured_seller.php?featured_user_id=6788960">Featured Seller</a>. I still feel so honored to be a member of those ranks, and am blown away that a whole year has gone by already. Lots to celebrate.alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-81720264473815644632010-03-28T18:13:00.009-04:002010-03-28T23:24:19.326-04:00Taking it on the road...ATLLast weekend, my Roving Ambassador (mom) and I took a trip down to Atlanta to meet with the <a href="http://www.danielrichards.biz/">Daniel*Richards</a> showroom at the America's Mart to discuss representing the alexandra ferguson brand. In just a couple of days, there will be 7 reps covering the following cities (and their surrounding areas), pounding the pavement with the sales tools we have been preparing -<br /><br />*Atlanta<br />*Chicago<br />*Dallas<br />*DC/Maryland<br />*Miami<br />*Central Florida<br />*Minneapolis<br /><br />If you are a retailer in one of these areas and are interested in setting up an appointment to see the line, email me at af@alexandraferguson.com and I will send you their contact information.<br /><br />As usual, I don't do anything by halves, and our sales packets took full advantage of my presentation obsessions. Along with a couple of actual samples, reps are getting a beautiful fabric-covered binder with line sheet, color card etc, and a water bottle sample showing the different stages of becoming felt. Thursday night, we realized that the caveat we were missing was a logo-branded tote bag to carry all these things in. In a rush of mad creative fury, we made 8 (ahem first proto sample somehow found its way to my coat closet at home).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqttPB2gu0wI4eSS5ROk7usZ-qySBl7FsPdzXHQSe3dhJ9YF0gvkwGZoW2djbtUjAIMwXimBdKIATWpKfIghBV2r-uHHjxVAW2vvVFUkdWD-PK20g5skAIH_PIs7wjaw2nZ0i97qncNY/s1600/photo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyqttPB2gu0wI4eSS5ROk7usZ-qySBl7FsPdzXHQSe3dhJ9YF0gvkwGZoW2djbtUjAIMwXimBdKIATWpKfIghBV2r-uHHjxVAW2vvVFUkdWD-PK20g5skAIH_PIs7wjaw2nZ0i97qncNY/s320/photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453814905851372050" border="0" /></a><br />I have a feeling you will be seeing sassy canvas totes on the<a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.etsy.com/"> etsy shop</a> very. very. soon. I promise to announce it here when they go live.<br /><br />Besides a successful and exciting meeting with Daniel and Richard, the sleeper super surprise highlight of our Atlanta getaway? The food!! Here was our gastronomic itinerary:<br /><br />Fri a.m.: breakfast at <a href="http://www.starprovisions.com/">Star Provisions</a><br />This is such a gorgeous gift boutique in the West Midtown area with delicious goodies to eat. We shared an asparagus quiche, and mom had local all-natural Greek yogurt. If you are in Atlanta, you must must must go here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YBC0P235XnSF3P3Gvm7Ysk_8kWHjTRFkiTArQSDyLX3JxjZVqSWnZiwCUxpzq1r9iW5eH050qgILpAy16phA84V5vTmh7mNOYpcuKwGoJvNAQuyGXNUS-gzFVdP-yFDv16-Kj0sOLjg/s1600/photo-1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3YBC0P235XnSF3P3Gvm7Ysk_8kWHjTRFkiTArQSDyLX3JxjZVqSWnZiwCUxpzq1r9iW5eH050qgILpAy16phA84V5vTmh7mNOYpcuKwGoJvNAQuyGXNUS-gzFVdP-yFDv16-Kj0sOLjg/s320/photo-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453818657378157762" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Roving Ambassador at Star Provisions - we shopped for 2 hours. Kid in a candy store. No joke.<br /></span></div><br />Fri afternoon: beer and nachos on the rooftop at <a href="http://www.tinlizzyscantina.com/">Tin Lizzy's</a><br />The weather was 75 and full sun, and cocktails seemed in order. This hotspot in the Grant Park area was exactly what the doctor ordered. Waitress was concerned I might be sunburning, and that seemed like an awful nice problem to have in March.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoF79gIMyUg8j4A-ahScwrWv0r8FUfBN7YRQS6EY_2lZOOoeUAxSoaIhSTh-K-2q-rcS7nJO-mZap-ntudpZktgVybAg_i0i0PdbBmfMtM63kosIwDa45amUQ-ki57dJMPgFTtYpuBXk/s1600/photo-2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoF79gIMyUg8j4A-ahScwrWv0r8FUfBN7YRQS6EY_2lZOOoeUAxSoaIhSTh-K-2q-rcS7nJO-mZap-ntudpZktgVybAg_i0i0PdbBmfMtM63kosIwDa45amUQ-ki57dJMPgFTtYpuBXk/s320/photo-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453818715217119010" border="0" /></a>Fri dinner: delicious seafood at super trendy <a href="http://www.twourbanlicks.com/index-home.htm">Two Urban Licks</a><br />Atlanta mega hotspot, black walls with deep red accents, hundreds of flickering candles and garage doors that opened up onto a deck area. Favorite part? These oversized (like 3ft) paper flowers. I tried to find out where to buy one, but it turned out the owner's wife handmade them all just for the restaurant. Took a picture, but the mood lighting made it a moot point.<br /><br />Saturday dinner: down and dirty Southern BBQ at <a href="http://www.fatmattsribshack.com/">Fat Matt's Rib Shack</a>!<br />Total cost of our meal was $25 - Glass of beer, 1/2 chicken, 1/2 rack of ribs, mac and cheese, cole slaw, and collard greens...Soo messy....Soo delicious. The line out the door moves quickly, and gave us a minute to make some friends.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff6xgZcdPaXnWZ1-soIIHMv7Zo2lmfU_YWvtcQVpZ3TkyTiqrKYVKBswCYlTycFVbzjCXTMYkMOGWrD20Yx98Tk4FR6cQ3m1XqsEbbgsLCxqx8JV8DN-q4_4P2ciwfm2KnerUOVAH8Xw/s1600/photo-3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff6xgZcdPaXnWZ1-soIIHMv7Zo2lmfU_YWvtcQVpZ3TkyTiqrKYVKBswCYlTycFVbzjCXTMYkMOGWrD20Yx98Tk4FR6cQ3m1XqsEbbgsLCxqx8JV8DN-q4_4P2ciwfm2KnerUOVAH8Xw/s320/photo-3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5453818766101333986" border="0" /></a>Now that's what I call a business trip!alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-51042590247922025602010-02-18T17:16:00.002-05:002010-02-18T17:21:04.177-05:00"If Taylor Swift was an etsy product"I don't check google analytics as often as I should, but sometimes there are some super fun surprises in there...Like this <a href="http://slate.com/blogs/blogs/browbeat/archive/2010/01/28/track-of-the-week-taylor-swift-today-was-a-fairytale.aspx">article in Slate about Taylor Swift</a>. I'm reading it wondering how all those people went to my site from a piece about her Fairytale song, and then I got to the end...Thanks Slate! Love it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhgnNa7-_tmAkjo6BF9W7XorEFANm6RnhK9BjPNwSMmev3od9hNu3OpRoGY2A2TxjR7doeois0gCbijsE-v3bkiJFuLJrTQhIT_DKDYl0jkMr4e6SIQSfANhtqVk0xwgsL5ll3tsiSlo/s1600-h/LETS+MAKE+OUT+FRIENDS.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 177px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMhgnNa7-_tmAkjo6BF9W7XorEFANm6RnhK9BjPNwSMmev3od9hNu3OpRoGY2A2TxjR7doeois0gCbijsE-v3bkiJFuLJrTQhIT_DKDYl0jkMr4e6SIQSfANhtqVk0xwgsL5ll3tsiSlo/s320/LETS+MAKE+OUT+FRIENDS.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5439711906296748642" border="0" /></a>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-82014185321690510922010-02-04T11:04:00.008-05:002010-02-04T12:19:43.460-05:00The Morning After<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzuxddAyD9HNg7WLdroHdMQfBzmE7yPz4W6UOqmxbdeHac0gj_tTk9ja90_fLAJmfKWbPp9L06owclB2S7JNWEWreRtlXdOBTlQX97oZDsBiYmzw0ypFBVg4RR2Te4y9XgVsnAAG2y54/s1600-h/DSCN0472.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibzuxddAyD9HNg7WLdroHdMQfBzmE7yPz4W6UOqmxbdeHac0gj_tTk9ja90_fLAJmfKWbPp9L06owclB2S7JNWEWreRtlXdOBTlQX97oZDsBiYmzw0ypFBVg4RR2Te4y9XgVsnAAG2y54/s320/DSCN0472.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434431036764242242" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">NYIGF, #5500, Jan 30 - Feb 3 2010<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">Show is over. Cars are loaded and home. Orders are written and being processed. Staff is being put into place to begin production. Emails are flying. This afternoon will be dedicated to a studio overhaul, which (not joking) is actually one of my favorite things to do. I am nothing if not organized. In light of other terms being used to describe me during set up and show, I think I am settling on "detail-oriented" (thanks, Katherine, from one to another). <br /><br />There were some very clear best sellers at show this collection - Be Nice or Leave knocked it out the park, particularly in the 22" size. That was no surprise, as it has been the best selling style since the very beginning. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7VvyHj8GTjnwtDZ2Sgi0nWKB_mYlDSBVpkF4nsWFtWRoNy9sPnh9YX2hgWduXHKfes5k142kQ02dzzSQJIn3FytOfvCb4ilP3cl61ArE3w6cuOgG3lmdRey63Gr1sn9MfC_f-_xF-l8/s1600-h/BE+NICE+-+GROUP+SHOT.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 170px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ7VvyHj8GTjnwtDZ2Sgi0nWKB_mYlDSBVpkF4nsWFtWRoNy9sPnh9YX2hgWduXHKfes5k142kQ02dzzSQJIn3FytOfvCb4ilP3cl61ArE3w6cuOgG3lmdRey63Gr1sn9MfC_f-_xF-l8/s320/BE+NICE+-+GROUP+SHOT.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434433601151596514" border="0" /></a>Some new styles were also a smash hit - You're Right and Stud both shined. That we were positioned right next to the men's bathroom is an interesting coincidence.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJoBuKElonhnqINPQN_noorg4GwkZ3s0JyEPD_K1uuondmGg3hQJluqry03-4IRuvBlosFpKtUL1WfeGYPxLGsuuzLkZbyJNeYBlcRSL6q_wGu5geUagaga94l_7-PYmrm1FBfKMl_C4/s1600-h/STUD-OAT+BLK.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTJoBuKElonhnqINPQN_noorg4GwkZ3s0JyEPD_K1uuondmGg3hQJluqry03-4IRuvBlosFpKtUL1WfeGYPxLGsuuzLkZbyJNeYBlcRSL6q_wGu5geUagaga94l_7-PYmrm1FBfKMl_C4/s320/STUD-OAT+BLK.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434435424190174114" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQB3heT3jV62oimh9jKCq6zasx8hrArYBukM5hUc2cB9uo8cPnzh5uQfsZodVkApG_1TVtLvfpduUEwaRVbvl744KlU44xcOu2Chtke-NZYWwH3yp8eMvxtrzM24wUVxmCW9mKEXSsNm8/s1600-h/YOURE+RIGHT+-+OAT+RED.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQB3heT3jV62oimh9jKCq6zasx8hrArYBukM5hUc2cB9uo8cPnzh5uQfsZodVkApG_1TVtLvfpduUEwaRVbvl744KlU44xcOu2Chtke-NZYWwH3yp8eMvxtrzM24wUVxmCW9mKEXSsNm8/s320/YOURE+RIGHT+-+OAT+RED.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434435566954471138" border="0" /></a>22" ampersand in the block font was also a no-brainer. I was so happy buyers were responding to that one because I am personally obsessed with it. In fact, it was really exciting to write several monogram orders. The monogram series has been so popular for me at retail, and I know it will be a good one for brick and mortar stores.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-jEJTd8nuGL7zr6Wts4Iue6JLbE8BgV9y6-_LptnsM5X7BjOp2-qTAXsjocFTg7HaMPMj4SsQqcIeTHilGOmGYdMvZqode3q8U4g8UQFUYO_trCDO1bG3CdvtTEqALjufc71-_Yl9ck/s1600-h/block+monograms+together.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg-jEJTd8nuGL7zr6Wts4Iue6JLbE8BgV9y6-_LptnsM5X7BjOp2-qTAXsjocFTg7HaMPMj4SsQqcIeTHilGOmGYdMvZqode3q8U4g8UQFUYO_trCDO1bG3CdvtTEqALjufc71-_Yl9ck/s320/block+monograms+together.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434436142143667170" border="0" /></a><br />It's not yet noon, but already my brain is filled with so many exciting ideas for the next six months. Lots of live retail selling events are up in the air all over the country, as well as taking the collection to far flung corners of the globe. There was so much feedback for the collection, and I can't wait to start designing into some new ideas I have. I will definately be back at the NYIGF come August - but most likely you will look for me in the Studio section instead of Handmade. <br /><br />As always, information for wholesale and retail selling events will be posted here, so check back for dates and booth numbers. <br /><br /></div></div>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-63426411917365614952010-01-21T22:37:00.008-05:002010-01-21T23:48:41.242-05:00Countdown<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cNf1yggmkGKjxPEb4TyBCmTzDC0OZNiAdan4EbvZGR6fDF1e-l2StA6YCJAC3nSnqJGkk5VVbEAg92cAs67wIdbvZ8P2gAbDp5L13NAqmoIb9CkGZ749a63f52iri15Ubjhe_F6MzKs/s1600-h/FOX+STUD+OAT+BLK+RED.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cNf1yggmkGKjxPEb4TyBCmTzDC0OZNiAdan4EbvZGR6fDF1e-l2StA6YCJAC3nSnqJGkk5VVbEAg92cAs67wIdbvZ8P2gAbDp5L13NAqmoIb9CkGZ749a63f52iri15Ubjhe_F6MzKs/s320/FOX+STUD+OAT+BLK+RED.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429420720023433746" border="0" /></a><br />This time next week, I will be checked into the New York International Gift Show. I will have painted my space, wielded my power tools to mount the display shelves, and drank way too much coffee. I will be wondering why I felt compelled to sample every style in every color in every size (not kidding there), and how I will manage being in booth, rip roaring ready to sell at 8:30am every day for the next 5 days.<br /><br />But this is the part where I am so grateful for all those years working runway shows in fashion industry. This is actually my favorite part of a show season - it's the last week. If it isn't on track by now, it isn't getting done. You can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Weeks and months of planning are all coming together in a seriously magical way (like, really, there will be a collection? ready? on time? really??) (oh - and it looks good too??)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioE-MiSQfnLIvLdqTMb_0IPSXG95Raff_9uuNAfz7_fUV5d5X6VxHLB9dK0Sv_Lp0OTv6AkuYuIVRoRXNBkIm4oIUGiCqQst0oM1lLkzWAEsD6hzc96U8hnkQlFCN1sGANazA_aMvBRSc/s1600-h/FRITILLARIES+COCOA+MOSS+16.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioE-MiSQfnLIvLdqTMb_0IPSXG95Raff_9uuNAfz7_fUV5d5X6VxHLB9dK0Sv_Lp0OTv6AkuYuIVRoRXNBkIm4oIUGiCqQst0oM1lLkzWAEsD6hzc96U8hnkQlFCN1sGANazA_aMvBRSc/s320/FRITILLARIES+COCOA+MOSS+16.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429420229388761234" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">fritillaries<br /></span></div><br />The spring 2010 collection is a mix of best sellers from the last year and new styles. Some favorites that are coming back include Go to the Gym, Tree of Life, and Seahorses. Let's Make Out has been a roaring success at retail for the last 5 months, but will be new to the wholesale market. Two of my favorites that are debuting this week are Call Your Mother and Fritillaries.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX9-1NcJ6TqJ6561KFU3h5VOKGfireZIRH_1i5M4lT0EFGszYgLh2_UX1gUd4Vl7Kgq78qGhCEGg-Y1Hv0yUFMDAVJ1ggEYT5osxUa2cIr7dtSkfVvPl7AyJhlaNn0NsQE-TeNTaf6HM/s1600-h/CALL+YOUR+MOTHER+CHAR+WHITE.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdX9-1NcJ6TqJ6561KFU3h5VOKGfireZIRH_1i5M4lT0EFGszYgLh2_UX1gUd4Vl7Kgq78qGhCEGg-Y1Hv0yUFMDAVJ1ggEYT5osxUa2cIr7dtSkfVvPl7AyJhlaNn0NsQE-TeNTaf6HM/s320/CALL+YOUR+MOTHER+CHAR+WHITE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429419828624043618" border="0" /></a><br />Lots of major company overhauling is timing together with the opening at NYIGF. I have been working with Jaime from <a href="http://www.bluestitchbooks.etsy.com/">Bluestitch Books</a> to re-do my logo and branding. My website, www.alexandraferguson, is completely down right now, so don't visit it. But that too will be coming back stronger than ever (or at least without broken links). The <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.etsy.com/">etsy shop</a> (which you can visit) will be getting a makeover.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzMLIoCxd65kd7gojLzvSgeQJ6vbSzbSW6cHGwoR5DbOJjTvVVB7DZg3FdT-Q3RNh3yM561lzVOsb4GcwjpBNTS4dQLGSneudwNKHsO8igNotiHzLfbWr4rpkBVcSDb4tv1DqsuBzVcM/s1600-h/SEAHORSE+FISH.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYzMLIoCxd65kd7gojLzvSgeQJ6vbSzbSW6cHGwoR5DbOJjTvVVB7DZg3FdT-Q3RNh3yM561lzVOsb4GcwjpBNTS4dQLGSneudwNKHsO8igNotiHzLfbWr4rpkBVcSDb4tv1DqsuBzVcM/s320/SEAHORSE+FISH.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429420506203132386" border="0" /></a><br />Maybe I'll even blog more...<br /><br />My company turned 1 year old this past Saturday, January 16th. Happy birthday, company!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMy9j1uCOBk7vlkBBhOfR_M0uVsHA-bLhPKJ74vpxZfZMx1Ng5tZbf6-WlaStr1Ed0ESZB59WSpxxNuyXDjkg0lZeRToAAaEY-zVXVSZn64-UaVtLD63gDJcGIFt7mpHHEgEU_gN7-unk/s1600-h/YOURE+RIGHT+-+OAT+RED.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMy9j1uCOBk7vlkBBhOfR_M0uVsHA-bLhPKJ74vpxZfZMx1Ng5tZbf6-WlaStr1Ed0ESZB59WSpxxNuyXDjkg0lZeRToAAaEY-zVXVSZn64-UaVtLD63gDJcGIFt7mpHHEgEU_gN7-unk/s320/YOURE+RIGHT+-+OAT+RED.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429421192268636242" border="0" /></a>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-16077536539340500532009-11-15T18:00:00.005-05:002009-11-15T18:31:18.675-05:00Here we go...It's official...this week I received my acceptance into the NY International Gift Show at the Javits Center Jan 30-Feb 3! There is a lot of work to be done over the next 2 months to get ready, including getting the new collection together, overhauling the website (which is woefully out of date), not to mention designing the booth layout. It's a big gulp, but I think the company (and I!) are ready to take this big step forward.<br /><br />Also on the calendar coming up is the <a href="http://www.handmadecavalcade.com/">Holiday Handmade Cavalcade</a> on Dec 5th in Little Italy in Manhattan. I love selling with the <a href="http://www.thenewnew.blogspot.com/">newnew</a> team, and this show will be highlighting some of the best of the NY craft scene.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmTFs6jmRU0MzP9HyuugQDLcsyHE3AM40LWbezc6DDm0dbww7G4lLsAsqObNXPx4wW1J66zNR1_rnvtjZRQ1k-NCOSezRfHzsltIRwA-OpOBUxOxHCRNpGOsx0ZsDxVWSquLoD44FZ9Q/s1600-h/dude+bang+together.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmTFs6jmRU0MzP9HyuugQDLcsyHE3AM40LWbezc6DDm0dbww7G4lLsAsqObNXPx4wW1J66zNR1_rnvtjZRQ1k-NCOSezRfHzsltIRwA-OpOBUxOxHCRNpGOsx0ZsDxVWSquLoD44FZ9Q/s320/dude+bang+together.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404476188882771170" border="0" /></a><br />A couple weekends ago, I took a road trip up to Boston to sell at the SOWA open market with several of my newnew friends. The weather was gorgeous the day was a bang up success. I also finally indulged in something that I have been wanting from <a href="http://www.cajajewelry.etsy.com/">Caja Jewelry</a> - check out my new <a href="http://http//www.flickr.com/photos/cajajewelry/4098178587/in/photostream/">"Craft Tramp" necklace! </a>I can't wait for it to be delivered tomo. I have a feeling I will wear it every day.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6i1IVuobX56uyiSbpqoPeo4HyX0jzhCEwcvOgIqVEJ5pI3PqBlsU6x-lAE6lKmgc3-n7rvafohYzdCNE__bF1mhWZEas32GEH34QXYSb-Eio5BoUXN2awPHxRYELFYjDNKYEtKDNbuw/s1600-h/lets+make+out-script+block.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu6i1IVuobX56uyiSbpqoPeo4HyX0jzhCEwcvOgIqVEJ5pI3PqBlsU6x-lAE6lKmgc3-n7rvafohYzdCNE__bF1mhWZEas32GEH34QXYSb-Eio5BoUXN2awPHxRYELFYjDNKYEtKDNbuw/s320/lets+make+out-script+block.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404475981755367922" border="0" /></a>Full speed ahead!alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-65181411786904499062009-08-31T21:23:00.005-04:002009-08-31T22:00:29.446-04:00<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ7BkV8i6R0Hs7_KobdsirP3hzVYTfq7pJvMtx-UQvdYkEXK4uvkPTUA8ZLaxnmsVlqPJHh4puO_fd0wUf75UuMNZpwSgZzkPjPIx8KzsZX9HoTwQFR9TglzF-JYOQJwioRBoglce2rM/s1600-h/be+nice+or+leave-cocoa-lots.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLQ7BkV8i6R0Hs7_KobdsirP3hzVYTfq7pJvMtx-UQvdYkEXK4uvkPTUA8ZLaxnmsVlqPJHh4puO_fd0wUf75UuMNZpwSgZzkPjPIx8KzsZX9HoTwQFR9TglzF-JYOQJwioRBoglce2rM/s320/be+nice+or+leave-cocoa-lots.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376303740493515042" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">that's a lot of nice.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">I can't resist a great group shot, so when I was getting ready to ship a lot of Be Nice or Leave pillows (total: 24) to several locations of <a href="http://www.bostoninteriors.com/">Boston Interiors</a></span>, I was nearly beside myself. They should be in-store right about now. Be sure to check it out.<br /><br />Upcoming events:<br /><br />Sept 12th: {newnew} presents the <a href="http://www.handmadecavalcade.com/">Fall Handmade Cavalcade</a> in Beacon, NY<br />October 17: Crafts in Chelsea, 21st St b/w 8th & 9th Ave, NYC<br />October 9-31: Madison Square Park Market ("NYCraft" booth) 23rd st b/w 5th & Madison, NYC<br /><br />Sneak peak at a new Lady Slipper Orchid pillow that I haven't listed on etsy yet (but will very soon!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvmx2wGHW8OW3ZNfrR83A-UkloB4ZULGc5uP9X9GplouVc7W6pTH4vBVvLbu0vC_xHmDz-1j1YLJNGhKE7dZQbditqO3ia9qtSAnLf8OBeQdAh3WE24WheZtugATMjPDl1m8ofxLrgk4/s1600-h/lady+slipper+orchid-cocoa-front.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 234px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibvmx2wGHW8OW3ZNfrR83A-UkloB4ZULGc5uP9X9GplouVc7W6pTH4vBVvLbu0vC_xHmDz-1j1YLJNGhKE7dZQbditqO3ia9qtSAnLf8OBeQdAh3WE24WheZtugATMjPDl1m8ofxLrgk4/s320/lady+slipper+orchid-cocoa-front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376307223655852722" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">i really like orchids.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">I was hard at work last week on a "research trip" (vacation) in Paris. We took a road trip to Giverny to visit Monet's house (amazing) where I took (way too many) photos of all the flowers growing there. I see some new botanical pillows in my future...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5b_5qGbX2-XUFv5xMTMX7ye_XrrBHEYL1vjoqbYX3CtUNVnkYutfKL_jdyENTsquBv11bakkEbOoqIUwumfuI8qHit_8MNeLD0XtX2lrTKwPliGIcl1ZmmP5bjS2ocQyQPUTi5KCSJjQ/s1600-h/givery-monet+pond.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5b_5qGbX2-XUFv5xMTMX7ye_XrrBHEYL1vjoqbYX3CtUNVnkYutfKL_jdyENTsquBv11bakkEbOoqIUwumfuI8qHit_8MNeLD0XtX2lrTKwPliGIcl1ZmmP5bjS2ocQyQPUTi5KCSJjQ/s320/givery-monet+pond.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376310512387517410" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">i could probably paint a masterpiece or 300 if I lived here<br /><br /></span></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nDUioJ9manbFlsBDLIkedoQHFcKzgm23gRw0M3ita47dxGMtSluVmsG1toC5tVdZDBNhfJyarYjJnvyZy3uwCfRZ71ijWRdx1w7APU0Wn97La_fJw1eWFBYiqt_XmVxcSeOXKAcyqfI/s1600-h/giverny-sunflowers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-nDUioJ9manbFlsBDLIkedoQHFcKzgm23gRw0M3ita47dxGMtSluVmsG1toC5tVdZDBNhfJyarYjJnvyZy3uwCfRZ71ijWRdx1w7APU0Wn97La_fJw1eWFBYiqt_XmVxcSeOXKAcyqfI/s320/giverny-sunflowers.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5376311478222187666" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">one of 172 flower photos I felt compelled to take. thank god for digital.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">now if only I could conjure up an excuse/several grand for India next....<br /></div><span style="font-size:78%;"><br /><br /></span></div><br /></div></div>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4816961402193563377.post-47547857044961929672009-07-25T17:19:00.003-04:002009-07-25T17:43:40.571-04:00handmade<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk5T6zB_53Wr8ku9c7O1PUkWHFBY9FXs6vSnqxaHpfHPlVG7byWEoIVS3G6UnNHcHjNeqQTtE7OM8paKuSaI8xeluMZRTnMe0KRyNXXTd3KJEBDsdHsHjloZJaARNJ3fpZvVuRfM7R-8/s1600-h/handmade.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijk5T6zB_53Wr8ku9c7O1PUkWHFBY9FXs6vSnqxaHpfHPlVG7byWEoIVS3G6UnNHcHjNeqQTtE7OM8paKuSaI8xeluMZRTnMe0KRyNXXTd3KJEBDsdHsHjloZJaARNJ3fpZvVuRfM7R-8/s320/handmade.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362510704990783218" border="0" /></a>I wanted to play around with some logo artwork and thought I would scan in the embroidered logo that is on the back of every pillow...and got this. Dang that's awesome.<br /><br />upcoming events:<br /><br />Aug 1-3: Philly <a href="http://www.americancraft.com/">Buyers Market of American Craft</a> (wholesale). Pennsylvania Convention Center, Booth 1616.<br />I'll be there with some friends -- <a href="http://www.cakehouse.etsy.com/">Cakehouse</a>, <a href="http://www.kimmchi.etsy.com/">KimmChi</a>, <a href="http://www.beaconbookmarks.etsy.com/">Beacon Bookmarks</a>, and <a href="http://www.knitknit.etsy.com/">KnitKnit</a><br /><br />September 12: {newnew} presents Fall <a href="http://www.handmadecavalcade.com/">Handmade Cavalcade</a> in Beacon, NY<br /><br />October 17: Crafts in Chelsea, 21st St. between 8th and 9th Aves (NYC)<br /><br />Fingers crossed for another major event...tba<br /><br />Be sure to check out all the new styles that are uploaded to <a href="http://www.alexandraferguson.etsy.com/">etsy </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJjZhyphenhyphenwslFOP9kK2vEKHwbfmseDJAhZQoHqrjHPvcGieqnXjpfBbA8W3KImMqeoOhWufnO84h92qaCYNkXTv_TCgpJ63REpj9xDeOdREndlkV1BL40BspMmklwrSygFF1L3iozJqr-wo/s1600-h/lets+make+out-+char+neon-outside1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 226px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIJjZhyphenhyphenwslFOP9kK2vEKHwbfmseDJAhZQoHqrjHPvcGieqnXjpfBbA8W3KImMqeoOhWufnO84h92qaCYNkXTv_TCgpJ63REpj9xDeOdREndlkV1BL40BspMmklwrSygFF1L3iozJqr-wo/s320/lets+make+out-+char+neon-outside1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5362516403013724338" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Happy summer!<br /></div></div>alexandra fergusonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10501982618345507123noreply@blogger.com0