Insight from Big Sur

One week before opening, I went on a much needed vacation to sunny, coastal California and had a most amazing experience, most memorably in a hot tub overlooking the beautiful cliffs of Big Sur. With a few new friends, we encouraged Cloris Leachman to join us. She listened to my hopes and my doubts about Earth Alley. Before she kissed me on the cheek she slapped me on the face, I think to knock some sense into me. She said, so you remember what I am about to say, “it is a good idea and you must go for it.” Also, she said to have a water feature and serve wine at your opening with a happy smile. And so I have gone for it – since arriving back last Wed. at 12:30 a.m. I have worked like I have not before. The last 2 days have been a whirl wind.

Verizon is saying that I have to fix the line that they never put in, the alarm guy is saying he can’t finish until Verizon puts in the line. Orders are misplaced or missing. Nonetheless, we are opening on Saturday.

Luckily 2 new creative friends, Allison and Amy, came to help me make sense of the last of the displays. I think they are creative geniuses. I must say, it looks good, like a real store. And just in time for Baltimore Magazine to take some photos tomorrow.



Please come and join us on Saturday, September 1st, 5 – 7 p.m.





Eva Khoury

Last Shopping Spree Before Opening Party

Just back from New York at the last trade show before opening. Overspent. Can I come up with a lame excuse to justify it...Yes, of course. There is something about New York; the creativity and thoughtful ideas were amazing: key chains made from bike chains, candles inside Brazilian nuts, purses made from records and stuffed animals that help save the South American rain forest as well as interesting jewelry from Brazil, South Africa and Florida.

In order to celebrate, we are having a party - Sept. 1st, 5 - 7 p.m. Please invite any friends who may be interested in meeting us and previewing items. It is always great to see familiar faces!

New stuff coming in & new challenges everyday

Wow, this is one crazy ride opening a store. Lots of great items are trickling in every week. Let me go on a tangent though - only for a minute. Has anyone worked with local artists? The creativity cannot be matched and the insight - as always I am blown away! BUT I am trying to keep everything "on track" and keep an effecient schedule because it is the only way I will get the store open in time. It is very much the antithesis of the "artistic" temperment. I think 10 emails trying to schedule a meeting is about average. It is almost like living in Seattle again where making a coffee date is like asking for a 50 year committment. I have had conversations at craft markets, flea markets, online and it is hard to get a firm commitment.

So, I am falling short of one of my first goals - to get as many local artists as possible. If any one has insight on how best to work with local artists let me know!! I will keep trying because the creative energy and beauty is so great to be around.