Treat Yourself Like the King (or Queen) You Are!

There are certain dates on the calendar that, even as an adult, you anticipate with great excitement!  For the PHAG team, today is one such day- June 18th is National Splurge Day!  Really, are we actually pretending we need an excuse to splurge around here?. . LOL

Invented by eventologist Adrienne Sioux in 1994, National Splurge Day is a day to treat yourself excessively to anything you want, and, to excess if you so desire.  In other words, behave like the Queen (yes we're talking to you) you know you were born to be!  Have an XL serving of your favorite dessert, indulge in a special bath or spa treatment, get extra happy today at happy hour (yes, we know you're the real Queen of cocktails), heck buy yourself a throne!  Whatever your splurge, today's the day, so put your reservations aside, throw caution to the wind, and just splurge. . . for tomorrow will certainly come!

See more like this HERE!

A Real Garden for Foodies. . . For real!

Green Zebra tomatoes. . . Siam Queen Basil. . . If you're a real foodie, then having that "something special" that turns an ordinary meal into an experience is truly what your heart desires!

These Foodie Garden kits provide a sure way to get the freshest, most imaginative ingredients straight to your table.  Featuring hand-drawn illustrations by famed artist, Joel Holland, each of these clever Foodie Garden kits includes everything you need to get growing:  soil, seeds, even a portable tin planter. Choose from Basil-O-Holic with sweet, lemon, and Siam basils; XXX Pepper with Pepperoncini, Habanero, and cayenne chili peppers; or Tomato Takeover with Black Krim, Green Zebra, and Roma tomatoes.

Looking for other ways to turn an otherwise ordinary meal into an experience?  On Thursday, April 24, 2014, participate in Dining Out for Life!  It's the 24th Anniversary of the charitable dining tradition that began in Philadelphia, PA.  This year, more than 150 restaurants across the Delaware Valley will donate 33% of the night's proceeds to benefit men, women and children with HIV/AIDS.

So tell us, where will you Dine Out For Life, and what will your Foodie Garden grow?

See more items like this HERE.

Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary, How do Your Comics Grow?

April is National Lawn & Garden month, and we're here to do our part in spreading the word!  Yes, you read our post title correctly, it's a comic geek's dream- a comic book that grows (and multiplies)!

Research cited by the National Gardening Association confirms that nurturing plants is universally good.  In doing so, attitudes toward health and nutrition are improved, community spirit grows, and kids even perform better at school!  Products like this colorful comic jacket of "The Gardener," support just that.  This easy-to-use kit contains two sheets of hand-made, recycled, plantable seed paper filled with mixed herbs.  To plant, you simply lay a single sheet on the soil, lightly cover with a topcoat, and water.

When it's this easy, what's the excuse not to join the celebration?  Come on, plant a comic this month, and help raise the spirit in your community!

See more items like this HERE.

It's Our Party We Can LOVE Where We Want To. . .

. . . and we choose to LOVE (in) Philly!

After 20 years in the City of Brotherly Love, I can say, with confidence, that there's no better place to celebrate America than in the birthplace of America itself- the home of the largest FREE concert in the country, and a city where even our mermen are red, white, and blue all over!

For those not fortunate enough to live in the nation's birthplace, you can thank VH1 who's bringing it back to the basics and back home to Philly in 2013, with VIDEOS all day (yes that's right video hits TV will actually broadcast videos) and music all night, broadcasting Philly's Fourth of July Jam and Fireworks LIVE from 8 - 11 pm!  Check out performances from Demi Lovato, John Mayer, hometown favorites The Roots, and many more.  The FINALE is, of course, an epic fireworks display that lights up the Ben Franklin Parkway and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

On behalf of our Philly team, have a safe and happy July 4th, wherever you're fortunate enough to celebrate!

See more items like this HERE.

It's Summer! Celebrate with MUSIC!

Happy SUMMER!  While summer unofficially kicked off with Memorial Day a few weeks back, today is, in fact, the official start of the flaming hot summer season!

I guess it's no coincidence, then, that June 21st is also World Music Day.  This annual celebration began in 1982, and has turned into a worldwide phenomenon as countries around the world enjoy the day in their own way.  The day also promotes peace and goodwill through music- heaven knows we can use more days to promote that!

Some of the countries that celebrate World Music Day are: Argentina, Australia, Britain, China, Costa Rica, Germany, Luxembourg, Switzerland, India, and Lebanon, among others.  While we fond some evidence of US participation in our sister city San Francisco, we would like to see Philly on fire with some HOT World Music Day events, so feel free to share the message and help us get the blog out!

Now, we're going to enjoy some classic vino while listening to some classic tunes on this classically beautiful summer, World Music Day!

See more items like this HERE.

A Little Vexillology Anyone?

 

Flag Day was first observed in 1916.  In that year, President Woodrow Wilson issued a proclamation that established June 14th as a nationwide observance of "Flag Day."

While it is unconfirmed who actually designed Old Glory, it is accepted that Betsy Ross made the first US flag in 1776 right here in Philadelphia, PA.  While the designer is unknown, the colors chosen for the flag are no accident.  Red is a symbol of valor; white symbolizes purity and innocence; and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice.

Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8, (d) of the US Flag Code maintains that the American flag, "should never be used as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery. It should never be festooned, drawn back, nor up, in folds, but always allowed to fall free."

So, rather than use an actual flag, rely on design re-prints of the flag on objects like this decorative pillow to ensure your decorating is within the bounds of the "flag code."  Then again, maybe you should use this symbol of life, liberty, and freedom to decorate your home however you desire!

See more items like this HERE.





Say it Loud, Gay is Proud!

At the heart of it all. . . a squeaky clean, impressively pink Gay Bar!

In June of 1970, the nation's first PRIDE parade was held in New York City to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the Stonewall riots (a nearly week-long uprising between NYC police officers and the city's youth, following a raid of Stonewall Inn).  Stonewall was a popular gay bar located on Greenwich Village's Christopher Street, and the uprising helped bring the LGBT civil rights movement into the national spotlight for the first time.  This first parade was named the "Christopher Street Gay Liberation Day" march.

Here in Philadelphia, official PRIDE parades began in the late 1980s, and continue today thanks to the hard work of Philly Pride Presents, a grassroots, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  The annual PRIDE parade and celebration at Penn's Landing attracts more than 25,000 people!

Fast forward to June, 2009, and the LGBT civil rights movement garnered a new level of support when the President of the United States of America proclaimed:

"NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2009 as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. I call upon the people of the United States to turn back discrimination and prejudice everywhere it exists."

This year's Philly PRIDE celebration will be held tomorrow (Sunday, June 9, 2013) beginning at 12 noon in the heart of Philly's Gayborhood.

Now, go get washed up, and we hope to see you there!

See more items like this HERE.

Baby put your YOLO on

Well folks, it's hard to believe, but it's already April 20th, and you know what that means. . .

 

It's time to celebrate the iconic record!  That's right, it's the 8th annual Record Store Day right here in the US of A!  Believe it or not, more than 350 exclusive releases will hit stores for the first (and, in some cases, only) time in celebration of this occasion.  You can check out the full list of releases and formats on the Official Record Store Day website HERE.

 

You will see that most are on vinyl, and with EARTH DAY just 48 hours away, you can purchase these rarities with confidence, knowing that when their days as music-makers are over, they can be converted into amazingly iconic home décor items. . . clocks, mirrors, bowls, coasters, maybe even a pair of prized 45rpm bookends (with authentic spindle adapters)!

 

Oh, and what's our pick for the day, you ask?  Without question, it's the "YOLO" vinyl single by The Lonely Island with Adam Levine & Kendrick Lamar.  Now, go pick up your copy, after all, "You only live once," but those recycled records can live on-and-on. . .

 

See more items like this HERE.

 

Signs of Spring. . .

 

Green clover, St. Patrick's Day decor, Springing forward and sacrificing an hour of my beauty sleep this morning, swelling numbers of city dwellers filling Kelly Drive for some outdoor fun, the tree out front just beginning to show early signs of blossoming life.  For me, these are the early signs of Spring. . . a reminder of the colorful, natural beauty that will soon surround me, and a reminder to pause and reflect!

We just received a new shipment of these popular, affordable mirrored decals.  Extremely versatile, in form and function, the decals can be used on walls, windows, doors, etc., the options are limitless!  They're light weight, easy to apply, and even though Spring is officially still 10 days away, they're a real reflection of what I'm feeling today!

See more items like this HERE.

Step into Spring!

This year, step into spring with real style. Our collection of hand-painted single bottle wine holders give new meaning to boutique wine! This multi-colored, shoe-shaped wine holder is constructed of durable, molded resin, and features an array of sculpted springtime flowers.

If you're more into an open-toe look this time of year, check out this roses design! Or for a more subtle springtime touch, you may enjoy our floral shoe wine stopper.

No matter what your style, these clever wine accessories will put a spring in your step and add a touch of spring to your bar!

Decor That Takes You Back!

While this weekend has been all about moving time forward, we decided to feature a new product at PHAG that will actually take you back in time!

This pair of 45rpm bookends is the perfect way to brace your favorite novels or display your prized music or movies! Each bookend is created using two vintage 45rpm records (of assorted artists/genres) and an authentic spindle record turntable adapter. The inner core of each bookend is made from recycled wood, all mounted to a 3” steel tongue, fully backed in cork to protect furniture and provide stable support.

If this new product is music to your ears, you can also check out our recycled record wall mirror or recycled LP wall clock, all are made right here in the city of Brotherly Love!

The Right Stuff for a Film Buff!

Just "reeling" from last week's 84th Academy Awards, we felt it apropos to roll out the red carpet to welcome our new vintage-inspired film reel accent furniture!

Our movie reel display shelf features a metal, tapered, tri-pod design with golden accents. Each shelf is shaped like a vintage movie reel, topped with tempered glass, all accented by a golden movie reel finial on top!

The coordinating movie reel console table features metal, tri-pod legs with golden accents, and the shadowboxed table top has a vintage-inspired filmstrip design covered by tempered glass.

Every night can be Oscar night in your family or TV room with these unique, inspired pieces that pay homage to the art of film, and on that note, congratulations to "The Artist."

Roll Out the Red Carpet!

In honor of red carpet season, here at PHAG blog, we've decided to roll out the red carpet for all of our favorite new products!

Starting with this post, we will begin doing a weekly Red Carpet Feature for a new arrival product that we're super-excited about. We hope you will be too, so feel free to share the news with anyone you think will appreciate our style.

First up, the Escargot Funnel. We should all know by now that, "Slow and steady wins the pouring race!" At least with our silicone snail funnel, it does. The heat-resistant silicone is appropriate for use with hot and cold liquids, and its accordion folding mechanism allows it to store flat until needed. Choose from cordon rouge (red) and cordon bleu (blue) colors.

It's fancy because it's French!

Get Jacked!

We're excited about this group of NEW arrivals, the GET JACKED furniture collection! Included in the collection are options for a chair, ottoman, loveseat, and sofa.
Your home is fit for a KING, right? Well, for some of you, it's more likely fit for a QUEEN, but that's another story. . .
Either way, incorporating furnishing and decor elements inspired by the bold, graphic "His Majesty's Jack," or "Union Jack" flag, as it's more commonly known, into your living space will surely send the message!
In addition to these bold furnishings, you'll also find a hand tufted area rug and decorative pillow inspired by this classic image.
You are hereby ordered to shop like a royal!

2012 Will be Liberating!

While individual taste as an expression of self is a fundamental part of what defines PHAG, I’m happy to report that this year it's HOT enough to be considered an actual industry trend. My prediction: 2012 will be the year of Design Liberation!

This new-found liberation will result in the freedom to explore unique color schemes, exotic materials, and the ability to fearlessly blend traditional luxurious styles with simple, contemporary lines. We should expect to see a great deal more emphasis on individuality, sparking very personal and interesting design ideas.

Some specific predictions encompassed by this trend include:
1. A welcome return to bright, vivid, and cheerful colors 2. Rustic comfort mixed with high-gloss, polished finishes 3. The blending of attractive, comfortable furnishings with elegant, stylish pieces 4. Mix-n-match accessories that range from natural stones and woods to shiny metals and even plastics 5. Layered fabrics and upholsteries with high levels of color and texture contrasts

If we’re lucky, many elements of this industry-approved freedom to express ourselves will be a mainstay in design for years to come!

We will see a continuance of some of last year’s trends, as well. With no end to the tough economic climate in sight, we can expect this new-found liberation to result in a continued excitement among people choosing to stay put where they are. In the end, many homeowners will choose to take advantage of these factors by electing to update their older homes with a touch of chic, contemporary style- seeing the old space through a new lens, if you will; their own unique lens!

A focus on blending materials also means looking to sustainable materials for much of the warm, rustic comfort in our homes, making eco-style a continued trend in the new year. Likewise, our freedom to create will result in many unexpected applications for use of space, so hybrid spaces will not only be more efficient in the new year, but also more inventive.

With comfort and style as a basis, 2012 design trends will celebrate individuality and allow your own your personality to take care of the decorating details.

Phall Harvest for Your Home!

Setting the table with style is a PHAG Thanksgiving tradition! Sure, you can buy and use fall produce for an organic look, but you can also invest in pieces with glitz and flare that can be part of your decorating tradition year-after-year.

For starters, check out these amazing hand-crafted fabric pumpkins, featuring beaded details and recycled door pulls as stems.

If you have a large guest list, you can invest in these miniature metallic pumpkins small enough to accompany each place setting at the table, and a perfect take-home gift for your guests!

While we're in the spirit of a little fall shimmer, be sure and consider mercury glass- one of the key decor trends of the season. Check out this artfully sculpted mercury glass pumpkin, featuring shimmering metallic accents and a beautiful coiled glass stem. You can continue the mercury glass theme by using some acorn glass candle holders to add height to the table display. These holders feature a finial-style base with a sculpted acorn design. Each holds a single taper candle, and is crafted of beautiful golden mercury glass.

Whatever the style of your table, this Thanksgiving, let us all give thanks for our blessings and be kind to one another always!

HallowQUEEN FEARceness!

Halloween weekend is upon us, and we know what a DRAG the costume selection process can be, but why should YOU be the only thing to get dressed up?

This year, dress up your wine with a FEARce devilish stiletto wine holder- you have to admit, it's devilishly good looking. We're quite certain Derek Zoolander would agree!

While you're at it, pick your poison by dressing up your home with these potion apothecary jars, too much? Well, how about one of these miniature potion bottle openers? Choose from: "Coffin Drops," Eye of Newt," and "Venomous Vapors." Each bottle features a magnetic back for easy attachment to the fridge or decorative display.

Like a little year-round Halloween flare in your home? You'll bloody love this true blood bath mat and coordinating liquid shower gel. To complete the look, you can finish the room with a weather-sealed canvas featuring your favorite custom-created 8 x 10 art canvas.

Now get to it HallowQUEENS- WURRKKK!

Pick Your Poison!

Well known for our selection of unique and eclectic tabletop items, This pair of white porcelain salt & pepper shakers marked "Cocaine" and "Speed" is no exception. A hot pinch of these spices will surely have you addicted. Pick your poison!

And speaking of poison, also check out these amazing classic pharmacy urns, imprinted with the names of three deadly toxins: Belladonna, Arsenic, and Hemlock. Of course, you may opt to just store candy inside these food safe jars. After all, Halloween is just around the corner. See all of PHAG's frightful delights here!

Back 2 Superlicious School

It's that time of year, you know, when the end of summer is near and just the thought of school draws a tear. But let's not focus on the stress of it all, instead, let's remember what makes B2S a ball!

For starters, it's time to strap on a brand new bag! Our easy-clean vinyl POP Messenger collection features bright colored messenger bags with pop culture graphics. Choose from "Peace Out" (Buddha), "Prince Charming" (Rubber Duck), and "Superlicious" (Poodle).

Fill your new bag with our designer mini flip notebooks to keep track of all your important notes and quotes.

And, after so many days of summer R&R, you'll need to get those creative juices flowing. Our designer origami kits will enable you to create your own fashion line, or make a room full of paper furniture. Your imagination is the limit, so get folding.

Oh, and if B2S, for you, means something a little more mature- our "adult" paint by number set is the answer for sure!

Gardening that doesn't "Succulent!"

It's a win-win anytime you can find a creative way to reuse combined with bringing a little "life" inside your home or office. Our suggestion, upcycle an old container and fill it with a succulent plant. Succulents require little maintenance, so they're incredibly easy to take care of. They add a bit of charm to any space making great house plants (and gifts)!

The first step (and probably the most enjoyable) is to choose a container. Rather than a conventional pot, upcylce an old mug, vintage creamer, jar, or can to use as your planter. The options really are endless! If you like the look, but don't have any of these items handy- hit up a yard sale, or pick a charming tabletop piece from your favorite retailer. Either way, a non-traditional container will give the plant a unique and attractive home that looks good in the center of a table, on a desk, or a patio.

The next step is to get dirty. As we mentioned, caring for succulents couldn't be easier, so to plant them, no green thumb is required. Once you have selected your container(s), fill them with potting soil and place a succulent on top. When using succulent (echeveria) cuttings, they root easily, so it shouldn't take more than three weeks.

Finally, show your new plants a little TLC. You don't have to water succulents frequently (usually about one or two times per month). Be careful not to over water the plants since the water can't escape from the container. Succulents can live in these beautiful containers for a long while, just be certain to give them plenty of access to bright sunlight!