Diana Martin Gifts Partners With Chef Adam Navidi

INSPIRED BY CHILDHOOD MEMORIES

Diana Martin Gifts Partners With Chef Adam Navidi
On Exclusive Line of Cookies + More

Costa Mesa, CA – Gift guru and style expert Diana Martin is proud to announce a partnership with renowned professional chef, Adam Navidi. The exclusive partnership with Chef Adam will provide Diana Martin Gifts clients access to homemade gift items like cookies and other treats, as well as access to Chef Adam for parties and more.

For over 20 years, Diana Martin's distinguished clients have trusted her to select beautiful and meaningful gifts for any occasion. Now she is expanding her services, through strategic partnerships with celebrated colleagues such as Chef Adam, to give clients access to a top shelf personal chef and his creations. While their first collaboration will be an exclusive line of organic cookies inspired by his childhood, Chef Adam and Diana Martin plan to expand their exclusive gourmet food line in the future.

“I love this collaborative alliance with Chef Adam, “Diana continues, “It is the perfect marriage of creativity and art,” says Diana Martin, CEO and founder of Diana Martin Gifts. She continues, “One of my favorite gifts to give anytime of the year is something freshly baked. It gives the feeling of security and warmth. It is exciting to receive a beautiful box filled with oven fresh cookies.

Says Chef Adam, “Diana extends my creativity with her beautiful presentation in boxes that can be used over and over again. They are an excellent way to showcase my home baked cookies.”

Diana Martin and Chef Adam met when they founded the Gracious Living Group in 2006 along with David Rance , offering their collective services, bringing together the best of culinary, tabletop and interior design by industry professionals for any occasion large or small. (http://www.graciouslivinggroup.com/).

The collection of recipes was inspired by cookies baked by his mother and her contemporaries when he was young. The premiere offerings from Chef Adam will be made with the highest quality, organic ingredients and packaged to perfection. The cookies start at $20 for a paisley linen box consisting of 12 organic fig – blood orange-pistachio biscotti. The custom paisley boxes are reusable. The brown sampler box is $50 and contains a collection of 12 biscotti, 6 madelines, 6 rangers and 6 earthquakes. Here is a description of the cookies:

Small Paisley Box ($20)
California Fig-Blood Orange-Pistachio Biscotti Great with some cheese, cup of coffee for breakfast or dessert -- warmed with a bowl of ice cream

Brown Sampler Box ($50)

Assorted Ginger Cookies Here we have taken Fresh Ginger, Organic Cane Sugar and whole wheat to produce delicate and fun ginger bread cookies.Meyer Lemon Madelines These classic cookies are made with fresh meyer lemons
California Chocolate Earthquake Cookies One of the treats the neighborhood Moms would make during the holidaysCalifornia Ranger Cookies Also known as Billy Goats, Ranger cookies are a recipe that every mother knows from memory.

Shop the Entire Collection at http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

About Diana Martin Gifts
Gift guru and style expert, Diana Martin has been the go to gift expert to A-List celebrities, international royalty and Fortune 500 CEO’s for over 20 years.

Diana Martin founded the company in 1988 and has built it into the premiere gift consulting agency in the United States. Creating high-end and often one-of-a-kind gifts for the world’s most recognizable faces Diana Martin Gifts now offers gifts to anyone who appreciates style and the art of gifting through the company website http://www.dianamartingifts.com/.

About Chef Adam Navidi
Having entertained Presidents and A-List Celebrities alike, Chef Adam Navidi has been awarded numerous accolades and honors. Considered one of the next great chefs of California, Chef Adam always presents creative dishes. http://www.chefadamnavidi.com/

Arianne Zucker's Lowd Suga in Soap Opera Weekly

Still looking for gifts this holiday? Lowd Suga, our favorite line of cheap chic jewelry, was just featured in Soap Opera Weekly's holiday gift guide.

www.lowdsuga.com

Terra Collection T-shirt Seen On KTLA + Holiday Savings

The Terra Collection's "Life" shirt was recently spotted on KTLA Morning News during a packing segment. Of course you wouldn't want to leave home without it- it might be the softest t-shirt you ever own! To go directly to the LIFE shirt click here. http://www.terracollection.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=5

Also Terra Collection is offering a special holiday deal on its first line of tees -- you won't want to miss out. They are offering 25% off through December 31st. Enter the code:holiday

http://www.terracollection.com/

Pixie Dust Decor Relocates to Florida + Launches New Fabric Line

PLAYFULLY CHIC CHILDREN’S LINE PIXIE DUST DÉCOR
RELOCATES HEADQUARTERS TO FLORIDA
+
LAUNCHES A NEW LINE OF FABRIC

Winter Park, FL – Pixie Dust Décor, purveyor of distinctive children’s bedding, custom textiles and décor is proud to announce the relocation of its headquarters from Orange County, California to Winter Park, Florida.

After nearly 3years in Southern California, Pixie Dust Décor founder and designer Stacy McCallum has relocated the headquarters for her textile and décor company to Florida to be able to better service many of her largest accounts which are concentrated in the region and to get a fresh perspective for her designs.

“I believe that Florida is the right place for the Pixie Dust Décor headquarters because it is place that reflects my company’s values – it is playfully chic and traditional with a twist,” says Stacy. “While we have customers and retailers throughout the U.S., the southern markets seem to really embrace and reflect the aesthetic of Pixie Dust Décor and this move will allow us to nurture that connection.”

While Pixie Dust’s headquarters have moved, production of the textiles and fabrication of the Pixie Dust products will remain in California and Iowa respectively. The complete line of Pixie Dust Décor products are made in the USA of the highest quality materials.

About Pixie Dust Décor’s New Fabric – Chateau Charlotte
Chateau Charlotte, the latest designs by Pixie Dust creator Stacy McCallum, provides a playfully chic look with her signature twist on traditional children’s décor.

“Chateau Charlotte is my fantasy fabric collection! This is my version of the quintessential French country home complete with a chandelier, primping peacocks and the sweetest lovebirds circling overhead. Of course we couldn’t stop there. The chateau’s columns were turned into the ideal stripe for the perfect compliment,” says Stacy.

Chateau Charlotte, designed in a pastel palate, will spark the imagination of any child with its images of picturesque estates and gardens surrounded with flowers, and childhood imaginings. In addition to this two coordinating stripes derived from the chateau’s columns compliment and add dimension to décor options when they are combined.

Pixie Dust Décor Textiles:
Structured yet whimsical, the collection of Pixie Dust’s exclusive textile designs features over 15 patterns all on their signature 100% cotton poplin fabric all designed to satisfy Mom’s discriminating eye while providing a comfortable, captivating environment for children. The line includes:

The Jardin Secret collection - Jardin Secret, Jardin Secret Stripe, Aqua Lattice and Melon Lattice - brings the garden spectrum indoors with colors such as Melon, Lime, Aqua and Cocoa while capturing the idealistic beauty of a formal garden through its motifs of antique urns, cameos, wreaths and lattice.
Topiary and coordinating Topiary Stripe in Lemon and Punch Pink, is a bright, colorful take on a classic shape.
Pixie Pagoda - Pixie Dust’s most popular fabric to-date, the Pixie Pagoda patterns are available in Aqua, Lime and Melon and hint at the idea of a land far away with fun places to hide.
Boy’s Toys in Red or Blue and the Boy’s Toys Stripe feature classic toys that play with the idea of mixing the best of the past with the future.

Pixie Dust Décor Products:
Fabric by the yard ($22/yard): All of the fabrics in the collection are available
Custom bedding - Begins at $336 for a duvet and pillow sham set.
Crib Bedding sets ($384): The set features two coordinating Pixie Dust Décor fabrics and includes a slip-covered bumper, dust ruffle, and crib sheet.
Pixie Dust’s most popular product, the floor pillows, include the Pixie Tuffet (36” round; $86) and the Pixie Pouf (22” rounds; $68). Both are great accents to any room and a perfect place for a child to read.
Other popular Pixie Dust Décor items: Blankets (Poplin with plush, $38); Bibs (poplin with plush, $14) and burp cloths (poplin with plush $20 Aprons (Styles and sizes for boys, girls and mom or grandma $24); and more.

About Pixie Dust Décor
Pixie Dust Décor, founded in 2006 by Stacy McCallum, was built on the belief that all children need a space of their own that is both fun and comfortable. This philosophy partnered with the desire for children’s décor that is both stylish and easily maintained, led to the creation of an enchanting line of children’s home décor, accessories and gifts.

Additional information about Pixie Dust Décor and the variety of custom textiles and products being offered is available at pixiedustdecor.com or by calling Townsend Olmstead Media Co. at 949.722.8488.

Hi-resolution products images, samples and swatches will be provided upon request.


# # #

Diana Martin GIfts Featured in the Orange County Register

Get all the tips you want to know about gift giving this holiday season. Check out this great article in the Orange County Register about Diana Martin Gifts.

http://strangeoc.freedomblogging.com/2008/12/15/five-gifts-you-shouldnt-give/2000/

DIana Martin Gifts on KTLA with Allie MacKay!

Love. Love. Love Allie MacKay from KTLA.

She was recently spotted talking to Diana Martin of Diana Martin Gifts all morning about gifts, the do's and don't and tricks of the trade. If you want to see one of the segments, check out the link to Allie's story and go to "Gifts"

http://www.ktla.com/alliemackay

For more gift ideas go to www.dianamartingift.com

bettershelter Featured In The Orange County Register

Check out this great article about bettershelter's lastest eco-friendly development -- 12@Elden - that ran in the Orange County Register.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/pete-steve-people-2244984-houses-small

For more info about the homes - www.bettershelter.com

Halsea Loung Pads in LA Confidential's Holiday Gift Guide

You've got to check out the LA Confidential Holiday Gift Guide - it is fabulous. There is something for everyone on your list - or if you shop like me.... one for you. one for me.

Here is a link to the page that features Halsea's lounge pads:

http://www.la-confidential-magazine.com/LAC_HO08_158_HOL002.html

bettershelter green awards Recognize The Greenest in Orange County

BETTERSHELTER GREEN AWARDS
BETTER IDEAS FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Bettershelter Recognizes the Greenest of Green in Orange County
With the First-Ever Green Awards – Seven Honored

Costa Mesa, CA – A wishing tree hanging upside down in an interactive art exhibit where guests could place wishes like “wishing for a greener Orange County” was just the start of the first-ever bettershelter green awards. From people to products, Orange County’s Greenest were honored at the event held Thursday, December 4 at 12@ELDEN, the newly released eco-friendly “Hybrid Housing” project (2381 Elden Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627) from bettershelter.

“This is an exciting time for Orange County with so many people doing such positive things. The bettershelter Green Awards is a great way to honor those who have made a difference and we are proud to be in their company,” said Steve Jones, co-founder of bettershelter.

The event, which attracted over 300 people, was a celebration of the commitment to better living, the spirit of community and the individuals, products and companies making a difference in the greater Orange County community for their eco-friendly efforts. From the over 100 applications that were submitted, winners of the awards in each of the seven categories were as follows:

Architecural Design: The CAMP, Shaheen Sadeghi, founder (http://www.labholding.com/)

Interior Design: Path Design, Rachel Hulan (designer) (www.path-design.net)

Landscape Design: LPA, Rick D'Amato, AIA (designer), Kellie Moore (LPA contact) - Environmental Nature Center (project) (www.encenter.org) Retail

Design: Thalia Street Surf Shop (Laguna Beach), Nick Cocores (owner), Jeff Trenschell + Jim Olarte (designers) http://www.thaliasurf.com/thsulabemehe.html

Product: Simple Peace LLC, Deanna Reposa (founder/owner) www.simple-peace.com

Individual: James Pribram (www.ecosurfwarrior.blogspot.com)

Company: Avanti Café Tanya Fuqua (www.avanticafe.com)
All winners accepted recycled trophies made from flea market finds.

The bettershelter green awards winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of experts, including: Greer Wylder, (Greer’s OC, http://greersoc.com/) Stephanie Barger (Earth Resource, http://earthresource.org/), Jeff Harlan (LEED A.P., Sr. Planner, The Planning Center – Costa Mesa), Steve Jones and Pete Zehnder from bettershelter

In addition to the presentation of the green awards, guests were treated to an interactive art exhibit, where they hung wishes on a “wishing tree”, as well as Green-Inspired Art Installations in three of the complex’s garages. While taking in the sights, guests sipped St. Germain cocktails along with gourmet potato chips, rosemary popcorn drizzled with truffle oil from Urban Bake (www.urbanbake.com). Local kids also got into the spirit creating original eco-themed works of art at the educational enrichment center F.Y.I. presenting their own green message. DJ Scotty kept the energy alive with great music all night.

In addition to the bettershelter green awards, the event also marked the opening of 12@ELDEN, bettshelter’s latest cutting edge development. Making living green user-friendly, 12@ELDEN is the combination of today’s green practices and products mixed with the conveniences of modern life resulting in what bettershelter calls “hybrid housing.”


About bettershelter
Bettershelter is a full service development company that focuses on providing unique and affordable housing for those who appreciate architectural design in Orange County. The company’s latest offering 12@ELDEN, exemplifies the best Orange County has to offer when it comes to green construction mixed with design, style and that hard to come by - hip factor.

Diana Martin Gifts Featured in Simply The Best Magazine

The hand hammered water pitcher featured above can be found on her website, where you can find tons of other great gift ideas. Check out their FAB website.

http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

Lowd Suga Launched Celebrity Collection

LOWD SUGA’ LAUNCHES THE CELEBRITY COLLECTION
Featuring Exclusive “Made for TV” Designs and Red Carpet Looks


Los Angeles, CA – December 4, 2008 -- Lowd Suga’ Jewelry Design by Arianne Zucker is proud to unveil its sweetest collection yet – the Celebrity Collection. With a growing stable of Hollywood’s hottest stars clamoring for her designs, Arianne Zucker’s jewelry designs, inspired by the blue-jean to black tie culture of Los Angeles, are being spotted on the big screen, the small screen and everywhere in between.

The Celebrity Collection is currently comprised of 19 pieces including earrings, bracelets and necklaces made of gold-fill, silver, faux-pearls, Swarovski crystals and shell designed by Arianne specifically for the following:

Arianne’s “Days of our Lives” character “Nicole Kiriakis.” The pot-stirring diva every “Days” fan loves to hate, “Nicole” has a penchant for bold, get-you-noticed accessories.

The drop earrings Arianne donned on the red carpet of the 2008 Daytime Emmy

Awards, as well as pieces worn on-air and on the red carpet by co-stars Rachel Melvin, Nadia Bjorlin and Tamara Braun, among others.

Necklaces and earrings designed for the upcoming feature film “Weather Girl” starring Tricia O’Kelley (“The New Adventures of Old Christine”) for which Lowd Suga’ was selected as the featured accessories designer.

Red Carpet accessories for Leslie Bibb, Emmanuele Chirque and Alison Sweeney.


While the Celebrity Collection is Lowd Suga’s most sophisticated and elaborate collection to date, retail prices for all of these designs remain under $100 making these red-carpet-ready looks a reality even for the gal on a budget! The entire Celebrity Collection is available for purchase at http://www.lowdsuga.com/.

In addition to the celebrities that inspired pieces for the Celebrity Collection, other Lowd Suga’ star-studded fans include Leslie Bibb, Sean Mahon, Alison Sweeney, Naomi Harris, Emmanuele Chirque, Kyle Lowder, director Jennifer Sharp among others.

About Lowd Suga
Lowd Suga’ got its start in 2006 when Arianne Zucker with the help and support of friends and family decided to indulge her sweet tooth and turn her passion for all things sparkling into a business. What began as one-of-a-kind gifts for friends and family grew into an online boutique at http://www.lowdsuga.com/ featuring a variety of original designs for men and women and has now moved into select retail boutiques throughout California including Alice’s Attic in Mount Pinos and Tricia’s Boutique in Frazier Park and Randoons in Winnetka, IL. Funky yet feminine, Lowd Suga’s designs can take you from day to evening and everywhere in between. In Fall 2008, Lowd Suga’ debuted it’s “Green Collection” featuring recycled, repurposed and reinvented eco-friendly jewelry.

The complete Lowd Suga’ collection as well as additional information about Lowd Suga’ Jewelry Designs by Arianne Zucker is available at http://www.lowdsuga.com/.

Daily Pilot Features bettershelter on the FRONT Page!

Check out the story here about bettershelter's latest development 12@ELDEN and the company's green awards (which are being held tonight - so be on the look out for the award winners to be announced!).

http://www.dailypilot.com/articles/2008/12/04/topstory/dpt-greenhousing120408.txt

Green One To Watch - Jennifer Capaci of Terra Collection

Looking for inspiring leaders in the green movement? Jennifer Capaci of the newly created Terra Collection is one to watch.


The Terra Collection just launched its first line of eco-friendly t-shirts that give back to charity – The Terra Tee Project. The line was created by Jennifer Capaci as an extension of her commitment to leaving a living legacy for future generations.

About Terra Collection(www.terracollection.com):
The Terra Collection is an Orange County, CA based organic T-shirt company with a global mission. With the purchase of each Terra Tee, a donation will be made to one of several charities dedicated to improving our quality of life on this planet - from cleaning up the air and water to protecting the animals and the earth.

With designs inspired by California’s miles of coastline, wild meadows and blue skies, each t-shirt is designed to make a statement and feel like your long-time favorite. With a hint of retro and a nod to sophisticated artist design, the debut collection features four t-shirt designs for women - one for earth, air, water and life, with a men’s collection slated for early 2009. Buyers can choose which charity they would like to donate to or can let the Terra Tee Project decide.

Terra Tee Project Benefiting Charities:

Earth- Conservation International, Pesticide Action Network of North America, Earth Island Institute, and ForestEthics
Air -Coalition for Clean Air, American Lung Association, Breathe California, and Clean Air Partnership
Water- Surfrider, ReefCheck, Friends of The River, and Water for People
Life – Children’s Hunger Fund, Friends of Animals, African Wildlife Foundation, Operation USA and Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation

StyleCourt Features Ideas from Stacy McCallum of Pixie Dust Decor

Looking for gift wrap inspiration? The ever-fabulous StyleCourt blog wrote about some great gift wrap ideas from Stacy McCallum, fabric designer and owner of Pixie Dust Décor http://www.pixiedustdecor.com/.

Check out the blog here: http://www.stylecourt.blogspot.com/

Lowd Suga to be in Soap Opera Digest's Holiday Gift Guide

Arianne Zucker's Lowd Suga jewelry will be included in this year's Holiday Gift Guide. Be on the look out for it!

Fore more holiday gift ideas check out www.lowdsuga.com

BETTERSHELTER GREEN AWARDS

BETTER IDEAS FOR A BETTER FUTURE

First Awards Celebrating The Greenest
People, Products, and Projects In Orange County


Costa Mesa, CA – From people to products, the best of green in Orange County in 2008 will be honored at the the first ever bettershelter green awards. The winners will be announced at an event held in their honor on Thursday, December 4 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The awards ceremony will take place at 12@ELDEN, the newly released eco-friendly “Hybrid Housing” project (2379 Elden Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627).

The bettershelter green awards is for the people, products and companies making an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, define what it is to live green in Orange County and develop products and techniques to change the way people live and think in an effort to be more eco-friendly to be recognized for their efforts and for the difference they are making in the Orange County community. bettershelter will be honoring following categories:

§ interior design
§ landscape design
§ architecture design
§ retail design
§ product
§ individuals
§ companies

Over 75 have submitted applications. Some nominee highlights include the following people and companies: Cadiz Design Studio; Molly Wood Garden Design Thalia Surf , Spencer Brown, James Pribram, 88 Orange, Resurf.org, Earthpack, BuyGreen.com

Event Highlights
Need green inspiration? Guests can participate in an interactive art exhibit where they will be able to write what inspires them about going green.

Temporary art gallery. Several local, up and coming artists (List artists here) will be turning six garages at 12@ELDEN into art exhibits, about the following themes: Air; Earth; Water / Ocean; Recycle / Reuse / Reduce; Nature; A Green Future

Art By Local Kids. Local kids from the educational enrichment center F.Y.I. have created clay art that will also be on display. Each piece carries a theme about the earth and a message about going green from each child.

12@ELDEN Launch. In addition to the bettershelter green awards, this event will also mark the opening of 12@ELDEN, bettshelter’s latest cutting edge development. Making living green user-friendly, 12@ELDEN is the combination of today’s green practices and products mixed with the conveniences of modern life resulting in what bettershelter calls “hybrid housing”.

Food + Fun. The event will also include music, food by local Eastside Costa Mesa restaurants (name them here), and drinks by St. Germain.

The bettershelter green awards winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of experts, including: ??? Greer Wylder, (Greer’s OC, http://greersoc.com/) Stephanie Barger (Earth Resource, http://earthresource.org/), Jeff (The Planning Center, PZ has his info), Steve Jones and Pete Zehnder from bettershelter

About bettershelter
Bettershelter is a full service development company that focuses on providing unique and affordable housing for those who appreciate architectural design in Orange County. The company’s latest offering 12@ELDEN, exemplifies the best Orange County has to offer when it comes to green construction mixed with design, style and that hard to come by - hip factor.

To learn more about the company, which is located in Newport Beach, log on to the website at http://www.bettershelter.com/ or call 323-286-7214.
###

Pixie Dust Décor Introduces the All New Chateau Charlotte Collection

ENTRÉE VOUS
Pixie Dust Décor Introduces the All New
Chateau Charlotte Collection

Enter the childhood home of your dreams with the idyllic and playful Chateau Charlotte textile collection new from Pixie Dust Décor. The latest designs by Pixie Dust creator Stacy McCallum provide a playfully chic look with her signature twist on traditional children’s décor.

McCallum cites her romantic French honeymoon as the inspiration for the latest additions to the Pixie Dust Décor collection. Classic Parisian gardens, jaunts through the Bordeaux countryside and a sweet macaroons palette all come together to invoke the poetic beauty and storybook simplicity of her designs.

“Chateau Charlotte is my fantasy fabric collection! This is my version of the quintessential French country home complete with a chandelier, primping peacocks and the sweetest lovebirds circling overhead. Of course we couldn’t stop there. The chateau’s columns were turned into the ideal stripe for the perfect compliment,” says Stacy.

Chateau Charlotte will spark the imagination of any child with its images of picturesque estates and gardens surrounded with flowers, and childhood imaginings. Chateau Charlotte and surrounding gardens are designed in a pastel palate. In addition to this two coordinating stripes derived from the chateau’s columns compliment and add dimension to décor options when they are combined.

Exclusive Pixie Dust products available in the Chateau Charlotte designs include:
Fabric by the yard ($19/yard): All of the fabrics in the collection are available
Twin bedding - begins at $ 180.00 for a coverlet and pillow sham set. (available through our custom shop)
Crib Bedding sets ($384): The set features three coordinating Pixie Dust Décor fabrics and includes a slip-covered bumper, dust ruffle, and crib sheet. There are currently10 different bedding choices for boys and girls.
Pixie Dust’s most popular product, the floor pillows, include the Pixie Tuffet (36” round; $86) and the Pixie Pouf (22” rounds; $68). Both are great accents to any room and a perfect place for a child to read.
Other popular Pixie Dust Décor items: Blankets (Poplin with plush, $38); Bibs (poplin with plush, $14) and burp cloths (poplin with plush $20); Aprons (Styles and sizes for boys, girls and mom or grandma $24); and more.

Chateau Charlotte, coordinating stripe print round out an already diverse and stylish collection of exclusive prints in the Pixie Dust Décor fabric line. Other styles include:
Jardin Secret, Jardin Secret Stripe, Aqua Lattice and Melon Lattice - in Melon, Lime, Aqua and Cocoa captures the idealistic beauty of a formal garden through its motifs of antique urns, cameos, wreaths and lattice
Topiary and coordinating Topiary Stripe in Lemon and Punch Pink
Pixie Pagoda pattern in Aqua, Lime and Melon
Boy’s Toys in Red or Blue and the Boy’s Toys Stripe
While many of the pixie Dust Décor fabrics mix & match, all of the 100% cotton poplin prints are designed to bring a sense of childish sophistication to any space.

About Pixie Dust Décor
Pixie Dust Décor, founded in 2006 by Stacy McCallum, was built on the belief that all children need a space of their own that is both fun and comfortable. This philosophy partnered with the desire for children’s décor that is both stylish and easily maintained, led to the creation of an enchanting line of children’s home décor, accessories and gifts.
# # #

Additional information about Pixie Dust Décor http://www.pixiedustdecor.com/ or by calling Townsend Olmstead Media Co. at 949.722.8488.

Hi-resolution products images, samples and swatches will be provided upon request.

Over 75 OC Companies Submit To Become The Recipent of 1st Ever bettershelter green awards

From people to products, the best of green in Orange County in 2008 will be honored at the the first ever bettershelter green awards. The winners will be announced at an event held in their honor on Thursday, December 4 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The awards ceremony will take place at 12@ELDEN, the newly released eco-friendly “Hybrid Housing” project (2379 Elden Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627).

Over 75 have submitted applications to possibly win a bettershelter green award already. Some nominee highlights include the following people and companies:

Cadiz Design Studio; Molly Wood Garden Design, Thalia Surf, Spencer Brown, James Pribram, 88 Orange, Resurf.org, Earthpack, BuyGreen.com

The bettershelter green awards winners will be chosen by a distinguished panel of experts, including: Greer Wylder, (Greer’s OC, http://greersoc.com/) Stephanie Barger (Earth Resource, http://earthresource.org/), Jeff (The Planning Center) + Steve Jones and Pete Zehnder from bettershelter

To go to the event or get more info, go to: http://www.bettershelter.com/

Terra Collection's First Line - Terra Tee Project - Hits the web!

Check out these following fab bloggers - My It Things, StyleHive and Green Glam Girl - who just recently posted info about Terra Collection's first line of organic T-shirts - Terra Tee Project.

http://myitthings.com/Fashion_Evolved/Post/fashion/It-Designer/Terra-Collection/3911182008213851198.htm

http://www.stylehive.com/site/terracollection.com/new/list/0

http://theq.typepad.com/greenglamgirl/

To view the complete line - go to www.terracollection.com

Diana Martin Gifts Launches New Website For Must Have Gifts

For over 20 years, Diana Martin's distinguished clients have trusted her to select a beautiful and meaningful gift for any occasion. With her exquisite taste and sensitivity to a gift’s possible impact, Martin can find a fitting tribute for valued friends, clients and associates.

Beginning November 24, anyone with an eye for style and the desire to gift artfully will have access to Diana’s wealth of expertise through her re-branded company and website at dianamartingifts.com.

“After working with VIPS of world business and celebrities, my goal with the launch of dianamartingifts.com is to be a resource where anyone can choose from a variety of gifts that are inspired by luxury, art and creativity and feel confident in their selection,” says Martin, “My gift collections bring luxury and style to everyday life no matter what the budget.”

Personal Gifting Services
Assisting with personal gifting needs, year-round.

Consulting Services: One-on-one consulting services with Diana Martin
Special Events: Theme development and implementation
Artists Commissions: Specially designed gifts by our internationally renowned artists

Corporate Gifting Services
Assisting your company in recognizing career milestones, employee achievement and showing appreciation and goodwill to colleagues and clients
Consulting Services: Analysis, development and implementation of a variety of corporate incentive programs.
DM Client Cycle Gift Program: A custom designed business support program created to help our clients grow their business.
Special Projects: One-of-a kind gifts or awards for a specific event or project.
Award/Incentive Programs: Custom award design, theme creation, collateral materials and room gifts.
International Gifts: Expertise in international protocols and cultural nuances.
Client Appreciation and Loyalty: Loyalty programs to show appreciation and engender goodwill.
CEO/Board of Director/Executive Events: Mergers and Acquisitions, Holidays, Retreats, CEO/Board Management Transitions, Congratulations, VIP events, Top Secret projects, Retirements, Appreciation, Special gifts for special occasions, One-of-a-kind gifts for those who have everything.
Occasion-marking Gifts: Retirements, Holidays, Grand Openings, Commemorations

About DianaMartinGifts.com
Dianamartingifts.com is a valuable resource for artful gifting with quality and style.

Throughout the site, Diana Martin guests will have the opportunity to shop from the carefully selected Diana Martin Collection of gifts, get all the news about the latest trends straight from the expert herself, and learn how to artfully gift the Diana Martin way.

Additionally, corporate clients will have access to the tools necessary to integrate and manage a successful corporate gifting program with the Diana Martin Client Gift Cycle Program™ - a patented gifting program that can be personalized and managed online at dianamartingifts.com.

Click here to experience the luxury of Diana Martin Gifts – http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

Pixie Dust Decor Launches New Website!

You HAVE to check out the long awaited Pixie Dust Decor website! In addition to the darling decor fabrics for little ones, it features the best in crib bedding, floor pillows (or "poufs" and "tuffets" as designer Stacy McCallum calls them), the softest bibs ever, and more!

Wanted something custom done for your child's space - that is no problem here either. Be on the look out for her new fabric - Chateau Charlotte - soon!

www.pixiedustdecor.com

Allie McKay from KTLA Comes to Halsea to Learn Packing Tips

Getting ready for holiday travel and can't stand the idea of lugging all your stuff through the airport or paying for checked luggage? Sally Bartz of Halsea recently entertained the ever-fab Allie McKay, giving her KTLA viewers all kinds of packing tips.

Check out one of the segments here:http://www.ktla.com/alliemackay

http://www.halsea.com/

Diana Martin Gifts Featured in November Issue of 944

http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

Kristine Taft Jewelry Profiled In Daily Pilot

http://www.kristinetaft.com/

Terra Collection Launches First Line Of Environmentally-Minded Shirts

FROM THE EARTH, FOR THE EARTH
Terra Collection Launches First Line Of Environmentally-Minded Shirts
Costa Mesa, CA – November 18, 2008 -- Terra Collection, an organic T-shirt company with a global mission, is proud to announce the debut of its environmentally-minded t-shirt line – The Terra Tee Project.

With the purchase of each Terra Tee Project t-shirt, a donation will be made to one of several charities dedicated to improving our quality of life on this planet - from cleaning up the air and water to protecting the animals and the earth. The debut collection features four t-shirt designs in styles for women - one for earth, air, water and life. A men's line is set to follow in early 2009.
Consumers have the option to choose which charity they would like to donate to or let Terra Collection determine the beneficiary. The following charities will be the first of the Terra Tee Project benefactors:

Earth- Conservation International, Pesticide Action Network of North America, Earth Island Institute, and ForestEthics
Air -Coalition for Clean Air, American Lung Association, Breathe California, and Clean Air Partnership
Water- Surfrider, ReefCheck, Friends of The River, and Water for People
Life – Children's Hunger Fund, Friends of Animals, African Wildlife Foundation, Operation USA and Jonsson Cancer Center Foundation

With designs inspired by California's miles of picturesque coastline, wild meadows, and blue skies, each t-shirt made right here in the USA of organic cotton is designed to make a statement and feel like your long-time favorite. With a hint of retro and a nod to sophisticated artisan design, a Terra Tee Project tee will be a go-to fashion statement for a night out, a hike in the woods or over your bathing suit when headed to the beach.

"I have been dreaming about this concept for the last three years. Since the birth of my son, I have felt a deepening desire and commitment to protecting the world we all live in." explains Jennifer Capaci, Terra Collection CEO. "This project has become a passion for our whole family. My husband, our friend Sean and I have been working late nights perfecting the designs, lining up the charities and getting the tee shirts to market, and now it has all become a reality. I could not be more excited about this moment."

Available for purchase on http://www.terracollection.com/, the shirts will retail from $59 - $65. Charities who would like to benefit from the Terra Tee Project can also submit their organization for consideration on the website as well.

The product of the long-time dream of a gal-on-the-go and mother of two, the Terra Tee Project line was created by Jennifer Capaci as an extension of her commitment to leaving a living legacy for future generations. The Terra Tee Project line and parent company Terra Collection were named as a nod to Jennifer's husband's Italian heritage with the Italian name for "earth."
http://www.terracollection.com/

Holiday Entertaining on a Budget with KABC

We LOVE Jane Monreal of KABC -- Talk about beautiful, fun and professional. She just came to Orange County to tape a "Holiday Entertaining on a Budget" story with the talented Chef Jamie Gwen and the ever-fabulous Brian Dobbin. Chef Jamie made all of the food while Brian brought to life an article about him and his home entertaining ideas for the holiday in Orange Coast's November issue.

Check out the story here: www.orangecoastmagazine.com

12@ELDEN LAUNCH PARTY + GREEN AWARDS INVITE

Save the date

Thursday, December 4 from 6:00-9:00 pm

Come check out bettershelter's latest "hybrid housing" development - 12@ELDEN in Costa Mesa. Not only are they launching the eco-friendly homes that night, they are also hosting the first-ever bettershelter green awards, celebrating the best of green in Orange County.

Think you are green enough to win? There is still time to enter. Call for entries deadline -- Nov. 18th. Go to www.bettershelter.com to download a form.

Thanksgiving Tabletop Tips by stylemaker Diana Martin

According to gift expert and style maker, Diana Martin the Thanksgiving table this year should be all about embellishments, details and the personal touch. The table is more than just a table. It reflects who we are and how we live. It’s the place we break bread, convene with family and friends, celebrate a holiday, toast life’s most important, as well as most private moments. The table is filled with memories of the past and those to be written in the future. It’s a blank canvas inviting your personal expression and creativity.

Diana Martin’s Tips for a memorable Thanksgiving table:
Votives create intimacy ~ people look best in candlelight. Small votives along the table or scattered will enhance the evening’s warmth, mood and conversation
Add your personal favorites to the table ~ an antique silver cup is ideal to hold flowers or a special paperweight for decoration; small is ok!
Create a table as unique as the moment ~ mix and match traditional place settings with art glass, hammered metal, ceramics. Use different surfaces such as a mirror placemat with linen placemats and cloisonne napkin rings.
Comfort is extremely important, even in the grandest of occasions. Create a sense of real luxury and ease by expressing your personal style with your table setting. Items that appear to be imposing, artificial or impersonal are taboo.
Scent is just as important as the visual. Fresh garden flowers, herbs, branches are just as aromatically enticing as the apple pie or roast turkey in the oven.
Quality wine glasses are a must. Riedel offers a wide variety of precisely engineered glasses for all kinds of wines and spirits in a range of prices.
Think about the tone of the evening and your guest list when creating your table setting
Be organized! When you go to someone’s house and they’re not ready for dinner, it’s stressful. Have the table set and platters out. Think about where the guest will sit. When you are organized, you are more at ease and so will the guests.
When in doubt, less is more! Simple is chic. Remember, it only takes one fabulous thing to make your guests feel great. Make one special drink or cook the juiciest roast turkey.


About the pumpkins pictured:
According to Diana Martin of Diana Martin Gifts, “These are one of my most favorite gifts during the Thanksgiving season,. Pumpkins are symbolic of appreciation, thoughtfulness and abundance. That is why they are traditionally given during Thanksgiving, although pumpkins can be given throughout the year.

These pumpkins are all individually hand-blown by an artist. The stems are metallic in silver and the glass is brilliant, warm and inviting. The craftsmanship is flawless. We have commissioned this artist for several projects. The small range in $300 and the large about $900.”

Enter a World of Comfortable Luxury and Artful Living -- http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

BETTER FOR THE EVIRONMENT. BETTER LIVING.

Green. Sustainable. Re-Use. Recycle. No matter what word you use, the newly released eco-friendly homes at 12@ELDEN (2379 Elden Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627) exemplify the best Orange County has to offer when it comes to green construction mixed with design, style and that hard to come by - hip factor. Making living green user-friendly, 12@ELDEN is the combination of today’s green practices and products mixed with the conveniences of modern life resulting in what bettershelter calls “hybrid housing.”

A community for like-minded people, eastside Costa Mesa’s 12@ELDEN is the latest offering from bettershelter (www.bettershelter.com), the cutting edge development team behind the highly touted, 1.7 Ocean. By mixing green elements into their signature coastal modern aesthetic, 12@ELDEN is an inspired example of smart design coupled with green building techniques and materials, creating a home that is timeless in both design and philosophy.

For the 12 California bungalows on the property, every detail from the building process to the interiors, appliances and grounds were conceived to give home buyers the total green experience including two community organic gardens.

Bettershelter principles Steve Jones and Pete Zehnder, both surf and skate industry veterans, developed 12@ELDEN to give OC’s design savvy buyers a housing option that is both accessible to the beach, promotes the concept of community and embodies the kind of responsible living that most of us aspire to. “12@ELDEN celebrates community and sustainable building practices through thoughtful architecture and landscape design,” says principle Steve Jones. “We all strive to do the right thing; 12@ELDEN moves in the right direction.”

In an effort to minimize the environmental impact of their development, bettershelter maintained the original footprint of the Elden bungalows built in 1963, with each home undergoing a frame-off re-development using environmentally friendly practices and materials. Each home features:
§ Forest Stewardship Council certified flooring or recycled floors
§ Low VOC paint
§ Energy efficient windows and doors
§ Options for solar energy and more.
§ Two bedrooms and one bath
§ Open floor plan
§ Private outdoor spaces
§ Fireplace
§ Garage
§ And more – see attached list.

With lot sizes ranging up to 2000 square feet, each of the homes is approximately 1100 square feet and will start at $529,000. Eight homes have two bedrooms and two baths while four homes have two bedrooms and on bath. There are two models open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.

Orange Coast Magazine on KTLA

If you ever have to be at work at 4:00 in the morning, Allie McKay of KTLA is the one you want to be with! Hysterical, right on and a total pro, she got the juice from local psychics on Obama's election, the future of the country and what his first 100 days in office will be.



If you want to find out your future, go to Orange Coast's website for the complete list of Orange County's best psychics. http://www.orangecoastmagazine.com/article2.aspx?id=10846

Ouch! No Gifts! Diana Martin Offers Tips On How To Show Appreciation In Tough Economic Times

With these hard economic times, it more important than ever to show your loved ones and those you work that that you care. Diana Martin of Diana Martin Gifts offers tips and gift ideas on her blog. Gifts like the votives, stationery and throw are among her top picks.

Check out the link here: http://dianamartingifts.blogspot.com/

Diana Martin Gifts Gives Entertaining Tips

Diana Martin, a gift and lifestyle expert, offers the following thoughts and tips on entertaining this holiday season.

A sentimental and traditional setting is given a modern twist with style. It is all about embellishments, details and the personal touch.

The table is more than just a table. It reflects who we are and how we live. It’s the place we break bread, convene with family and friends, celebrate a holiday, toast life’s most important, as well as most private moments. The table is filled with memories of the past and those to be written in the future. It’s a blank canvas inviting your personal expression and creativity.

Diana Martin’s Tips for a memorable holiday table:

Votives create intimacy ~ people look best in candlelight. Small votives along the table or scattered will enhance the evening’s warmth, mood and conversation

Add your personal favorites to the table ~ an antique silver cup is ideal to hold flowers or a special paperweight for decoration; small is ok!

Create a table as unique as the moment ~ mix and match traditional place settings with art glass, hammered metal, ceramics. Use different surfaces such as a mirror placemat with linen placemats and cloisonne napkin rings.

Comfort is extremely important, even in the grandest of occasions. Create a sense of real luxury and ease by expressing your personal style with your table setting. Items that appear to be imposing, artificial or impersonal are taboo.

Scent is just as important as the visual. Fresh garden flowers, herbs, branches are just as aromatically enticing as the apple pie or roast turkey in the oven.

Quality wine glasses are a must. Riedel offers a wide variety of precisely engineered glasses for all kinds of wines and spirits in a range of prices.

Think about the tone of the evening and your guest list when creating your table setting

Be organized! When you go to someone’s house and they’re not ready for dinner, it’s stressful. Have the table set and platters out. Think about where the guest will sit. When you are organized, you are more at ease and so will the guests.

When in doubt, less is more! Simple is chic. Remember, it only takes one fabulous thing to make your guests feel great. Make one special drink or cook the juiciest roast turkey.

http://www.dianamartingifts.com/

Love From Lowd Suga

Our favorite cheap-chic jewelry line, Lowd Suga, has just unveiled a few peices from their Valentine's line. Days of our Lives star and Lowd Suga's jewelry designer, Arianne Zucker was inspired by life in LA when designing the pieces. http://lowdsuga.com/

Halsea Brings Coastal Chic to the Great Lakes - November 7-9, 2008

Halsea is taking a road trip!! Bringing Coastal Chic to the Great Lakes, Halsea designer Sally Bartz will be on hand at the Kingswood Glittorama Gift Show in Bloomfield Hills, MI November 7-9, 2008. Check out the flyer below or www.halsea.com for more details!!

bettershelter to host bettershelter green awards

BETTERSHELTER GREEN AWARDS
BETTER IDEAS FOR A BETTER FUTURE

Call for Entries for First Awards Celebrating
The Greenest People, Products, and Projects In Orange County

Costa Mesa, CA – October 22, 2008–- bettershelter, the cutting edge development team behind the eco-friendly community 12@ELDEN and 1.7 Ocean, has just announced a call for entries for the first ever bettershelter green awards.

Celebrating the greenest of green in Orange County in 2008, winners in each category will be selected by a distinguished jury and announced at an event held in their honor on Thursday, December 4 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. The awards ceremony will take place at 12@ELDEN, the newly released eco-friendly “Hybrid Housing” project (2379 Elden Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92627).

The bettershelter green awards is an opportunity for the people, products and companies making an effort to reduce our carbon footprint, define what it is to live green in Orange County and develop products and techniques to change the way people live and think in an effort to be more eco-friendly to be recognized for their efforts and for the difference they are making in the Orange County community. bettershelter will be accepting entries in the following categories:

§ interior design
§ landscape design
§ architecture design
§ retail design
§ product
§ individuals
§ companies

To download an entry form, go to www.bettershelter.com. Deadline for all entries and materials is November 18. To be eligible, all projects must be completed between October 1, 2007 and December 31, 2008.

About bettershelter
Bettershelter is a full service development company that focuses on providing unique and affordable housing for those who appreciate architectural design in Orange County. The company’s latest offering 12@ELDEN, exemplifies the best Orange County has to offer when it comes to green construction mixed with design, style and that hard to come by - hip factor. Making living green user-friendly, 12@ELDEN is the combination of today’s green practices and products mixed with the conveniences of modern life resulting in what bettershelter calls “hybrid housing”.

To learn more about the company, which is located in Newport Beach, log on to the website at www.bettershelter.com or call 323-286-7214.
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Kristine Taft Jewelry Offers Laidback California Lux

Fred Segal called. They want 720 hand-made bracelets!! Great news for a new business owner right? The problem – Kristine Taft misread the order. Thinking it was only 90 pieces to be delivered in 7 days she quickly realized it was in fact 720 pieces. Not one to go back on her word, she worked day and night stringing tiny crystals at her Crystal Cove bungalow until she met the order. Welcome to Kristine Taft’s career as a jewelry designer. Kristine Taft’s creations featuring her signature California-luxe style have always been so unique and beautiful that she often times sells pieces right off her neck! Kristine started her business just 8 years ago and as a result of her great success – from high-end boutiques selling her pieces to seeing necklaces from the collection appear on celebrities and on the red carpet – she is now launching her own website so loyal fans of her work and those outside of California can order from her collection or design one-of-a-kind custom pieces.
http://www.kristinetaft.com/

Cultured Travel - Halsea Launches Latest Line of Travel Bags

Newport Beach, CA – Launching her fourth collection of travel bags, Sally Bartz of Halsea, the beach-chic travel accessories company, is proud to announce her latest collection called Little Harbor.

Little Harbor is a fresh take on a coastal classic, inspired by a recent trip to the lakeside town of Harbor Springs, MI. The pattern is a crisp white bamboo lattice print on a kelp green or coffee background. The beautifully detailed bags are trimmed in leather.

The Little Harbor Collection includes the following pieces:
· Roller Suitcase – The cornerstone of the Halsea collection: fits in the overhead compartment for easy traveling. ($335)

· Roller Duffle - Halsea’s largest bag to-date. Great for longer trips, it opens like a doctor’s bag so you can see everything inside and features a retractable pull and plenty of pockets. ($355)

· Large Tote – A very roomy tote perfect for a day at the beach, or the farmers’ market. ($135)

· Wallet Clutch– Looks like a clutch but acts like a wallet. The perfect 2-in-1 piece so you don’t have to pack an extra handbag for evenings. ($88)

· Cosmetic Bag – Plenty of inside pockets to carry a gal’s lotions and potions. ($55)

· Small Make-Up Bag - Small, zip-top case -- perfect to carry just the essentials. ($40)

· Halsea Home – décor items including pillows, table cloths and fabric-by-the-yard are also available in any of the exclusive Halsea patterns.

All styles are made of laminated printed canvas, and feature Halsea’s signature shell-pink satin lining – a feminine touch for sure, but also practical - ensuring that even the smallest accessories are easy to spot. Designed to mix and match, Halsea fabrics coordinate so that fans can expand their collections with the introduction of each new print.

“The Little Harbor print reminds me of the kind of classic seaside elegance where preppy reigns,” Sally mused. “It invokes a time when things took on more meaning the longer you owned them, and the little touches, like needle point pillows, were appreciated. When the highlight of the day was dusk spent with family and friends, sitting on the beach playing cards, telling stories, laughing with the kids.”

About Halsea
After spending the last decade designing accessories for surf apparel giants such as Roxy, Volcom, Modern Amusement and Paul Frank, Sally Bartz started Halsea for gals who want sophisticated, casual beach style. Having created the line based on the laid-back California style of the 1970’s, her days growing up across the street from the beach is often the inspiration behind Halsea products.
Halsea is a beach-chic company that offers travel bags and home accessories. The Halsea Shop is located at 409 31st Street, Newport Beach, CA 92663 and can be reached by calling 949.673.7743.
All Halsea products are available on www.halsea.com

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