IT'S GRADUATION TIME

Can you believe that it is already time for graduation? I don't know about you, but the older I get, the faster time goes by. I have had several graduates come by and register at the shop that I remember as babies. Now that can make you feel old! It's good to see these children grow up to be such nice young adults. I know they are as excited about their future as their family and friends are. We should encourage our youth everyday. They should know they can be anything they want to be with a hard work and dedication. I know you share the same enthusiasm and congratulations to all graduates. Their life is just beginning. I see them as our future nurses, doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, political leaders, shop owners and more!

Congratulations to all graduates!

FESTIVAL FUN

It's always inspiring to have a change of scenery. We recently moved our shop outside for the day at our annual Festival On The Round. Thanks to all our friends who stopped by to see us under our beautiful tent. Festivals are starting to diminish nationally, and unfortunately our annual festival is no exception. People are so busy these days, and have so many options to spend their valuable time. I hate to see the decline of the festival. This is the perfect time to meet up with friends we haven't seen for a long time and catch up on all the latest "news." It is a time to relax and enjoy wonderful entertainment and shop the many artisans and local businesses. The people who were at our festival had a wonderful time. We met many new friends and were able to showcase the Evelyn's experience to them. We had alot of fun and hope you did too!

THE GIFT OF MOTHERS

The other day I had to have a large branch removed from a tree in my front yard. As the branch came down, I noticed a wonderful bird's nest tucked in the corner of the branch. It is amazing how complex this nest was made out of just twigs and straw. I thought of the hard working birds who made this nest for their young babies. I have a couple of robins that follow me around the yard when I am working outside. They love for me to dig around in the ground in hopes I will dig up a delicious dinner of worms for them. I know that they give their first tastings to their young ones waiting patiently for them. You know they love to see their mom come back with this special treat. This is the time of year we honor our mother's for all they do for us everyday. Let us help you honor your mother with a gift as unique as your mother. Hope to see you soon! (Don't forget to visit us at our beautiful tent at the Festival On The Round this Saturday, May 3rd.)

Bright Ideas

The sun has finally come out and I am loving it! I love seeing the bright sun come through my kitchen windows. It always cheers me up. Now is the perfect time to add bright colors to your interiors. Our new sunny table linens are sure to brighten up your table. I love all the bright yellows, reds, blues, and greens that are in these new linens. You can't help but smile when you see them. Stop by the shop soon and let us help you brighten up your table!

FRESH PICKED FLORALS

Some people have a bad impression of artificial florals. I can see their point when I remember all the plastic flowers of the past! And, there are some really bad "silk" florals with strange colors that scream "I am fake!". At Evelyn's, we pride ourself on our beautiful collection of silk florals. We have some of the most realistic and unique florals you will ever find. Flowers and greenery always brighten up a room. Florals are one of the best ways to soften up a hard space, such as bookcases, coffee tables, and mantles. Let's face it, we don't all have a green thumb. Now you will just look like you have gardening in your blood. Only you will know that our florals are silk. Just be sure to tell your spouse not to water them!

Declare Your Independence

Every time I listen to the news I hear about the dismal state of our economy. All reports show that retail sales are down, or at best, break-even to previous year's sales. What the news does not tell you is that they base this information on the top "big box" businesses. While big box businesses are having a tough time, the independent businesses are actually having increases in business. Many shoppers are "re-discovering" the independent shops in their neighborhoods. The independent businesses can offer you something that big box businesses and chain stores can't, unique products at fair prices coupled with outstanding customer service. When was the last time you got a sales person at a big mart store to help you pick out the perfect gift for your grandmother and wrap it for no charge? Independent business owners are in business because they love it and their customers. I encourage you, during these trying economic times, to support your locally owned businesses and let them show you how much they care for you and your community! We always appreciate our customers at Evelyn's and look forward seeing you soon.

Achieving The "Evelyn's" Look

Many of our wonderful customers come in the shop and comment that they wish their homes could look like our shop. Most say that the accessories they purchase don't look quite the same in their homes as they do in our shop. One of the best ways to solve this decorating dilemma is to take a look at your placement of your accessories. Most people place the tall objects towards the back and the small items to the front. This gives a "flat" presentation of your treasures. The eye likes to wonder through your setting. Mix up the tall, medium, and small objects on your table or book shelves. Place some small items towards the middle, some medium items to the front, and the tall objects in the middle and back. This will give a eye-pleasing display. The eye will wonder throughout your entire display to see all the treasures you have collected. Have fun and remember to come and see us at the shop for all the NEW treasures you must have!