Fabulous Finds at the Plaza

I went to Kansas City this past weekend, met my wonderful parents there for a quick get-a-way. First place we went was to the Plaza to Anthropologie. Its always a treat to visit that store because, sadly, there isn't one in Des Moines. Everything about Anthropologie is fantastic and I wish money grew on trees because I would shop there very often. I did however come across the perfect dress for me.... and I bought it.

The fabric alone is amazing and this neckline is so unique!

I wanted to move into the dressing room too....

It wasn't until I was leaving that I noticed their window display.

Made completely of hangers!!! Props to the person who designs these windows!

Have a fabulous day! ~ Mimi

I Love You!!!

Screen printing is not something that came super easy to me. I'm not a graphic designer and I still have a hard time coming up with ideas from my "raw" art and thinking in more than 1 color. Never the less, I started taking photos of my hands, working with buttons or sewing, which led me to speaking with my hards through images. I started combing my usual vintage papers with the printing process and my first edition of the "I Love You" hands flew out of my etsy shop just in time for Christmas.

So in time for Valentines Day I have created a series of red and pink "I Love You" prints. Available only at www.mimisolum.etsy.com.

These are small editions so they will go quickly but look for a new set of black "I Love You" prints coming soon:

MimiBird is growing!

I've been doing mimibird for over a year now. Couldn't have even started creating these fabulous items without the help and encouragement from my family and friends. Now that I've seen success in my wonderful jewelry and signs I've decided to take some risks and go farther with my adventure.

Mimibird is now and LLC. and has three owners. My parents, Chuck and Heather have joined me and we are taking mimibird to the next level. We have created a gift line, are taking it to gift shows, meeting with store owners, we even have a catalog :)

(My parents were at the Dallas Gift Market just this last weekend, so exciting!!!)

My parents have taken over production of our handmade vintage collage signs....

and I am solely making the button jewelry.

We are a fabulous team because my Dad has a passion for sales, traveling, tearing down barns, going to auctions, working with his hands and being a business man. My Mom is a visionary. She can see these creations before we make them, she can visualize what the buyer wants, what buyers of all age would be interested in and has a creative and business mindset like no one else I know. Then there is me who has a desire to continue to create, to become successful, and to make sure everyone can enjoy these affordable, quality products as much as I enjoy them.

We are all looking forward to 2011 and what it will bring to us. I'm excited to grow this business and to spend time with my family while doing just that.

Cupcake Anyone?

A place I love in Des Moines....

Carefree Patisserie

Everything I have tried there is amazing... I have friends who are from out of town who dream about these delights. My favorite: White Almond. mmm.

But they have 101 flavors if Almond isn't your thing.

Sweet thing is, they are located in adorable Valley Junction. Do something sweet for yourself this week and stop in and get a cupcake. You deserve it.

- Mimi

Working with Buttons...

Not a day, in my life, goes by without making something out of a button.

Buttons have become a part of my life that excites me. When I find a tin of buttons for sale at a garage sale or when my dad buys a button collection at an auction I get so excited looking through all of them. They don't make buttons like they used to. The colors, shapes, and designs were all unique, buttons were about accessorizing, not just functional.

When I find a pair of matching buttons I put that duo directly into a jar that soon becomes a pair of my mimibird earrings....

My favorite things to make are rings. Each ring is a challenge and a piece of art.

My button jewelry line keeps me busy and puts a smile on my face. Headbands, Brooches, Necklaces, Bracelets, Rings, Earrings, Hair accessories and so much more.... Keep your eyes open for new listings and upcoming shows.

Thanks ~ Mimi

Vintage Pleasures!

Me, Naomi (Older/Wiser Sister) and Heather (Most creative Mom Ever)

My Mother and Sister and I have a lot of things in common but one thing they take the cake on is decorating. All of my mothers houses should have been in a cottage magazine and my sister should really get a spot on Apartment Therapy or some other inspiring blog. They both take risks, make statements and find a place for everything. I'm boring, simple and my places never feel quite like home.

One thing my sister loves to do is thrift. She finds the most amazing things and has great visions for each and every one of her finds. My vintage etsy is inspired by her. I hope you can find something for your own home to bring a touch of the past into your rooms.

Check out www.mimibirdvintage.etsy.com for these great finds and more! Including lots of vintage jewelry, always at sale prices!

-Mimi

Look for more on my families decorating skills in upcoming posts (which will include photos and ideas of their talents)

Function in the Junction is a new show in the beloved Valley Junction.

On February 5th from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, join us to find those perfect Valentines day gifts for your loved ones!

Many fabulous vendors with many different kinds of handmade and vintage goodies will be gathering together at 218 1/2 5th Street in West Des Moines in a fabulous (air controlled) ballroom. So come on in from the cold and stock up on your hard to find treasures!

I will have my normal signs and jewelry but in celebration of Saint Valentine, I have created many pink and red items for you and yours. (Hey, at least I'm doing a little celebrating) ;)

Check out www.mimibird.etsy.com for more of these great items!

-Mimi

And Save your date!

Feb 5th 10-2

218 1/2 5th Street in West Des Moines