GateauxFab

Montgomery Ward: yes they are still around.

2008-05-13T10:06:00.009-04:00

I need storage that doesn't look like storage. Sound familiar? The last place I expected to find it was in a chaise lounge at Montgomery Ward. Made with a soft tan microfiber (stain resistant) fabric, the entire seat lifts to reveal an ottoman like storage area. With a nailhead trim, and cherry finished legs, it is perfect for hiding papers, toys, and other sundry items in style. Grand total with shipping: $475.

Perfect for those "popover" visits from your in-laws.

Art house

2008-05-06T16:33:00.005-04:00

A blank wall is a blank canvas. It calls for something special, both as form of self expression, and as a point of reflection. Finding unique oil paintings or wall sculptures on a budget can be a challenge. Available at homedecorators.com a very large collection of framed art and 3D art for under $150. This eye catching wave art sculpture for a very affordable $149 is sure to spark conversation and catch sunlight.

Because every home needs a little art.

Love Affair

2008-05-01T13:23:00.005-04:00

Family room furniture purchases can be tricky. Most living room sets are bulky and have a "matchy-matchy" effect. But mixing furniture styles as shown in lifestyle magazines can be delicate and often difficult to balance.

Elegant and fashionable, this faux leather armless loveseat at Target fits many spaces that need just one more accent. Can be mixed and matched with more expensive Pottery Barn style couches or as a filler in a large entryway. Sells for $230, shipping is free, and an additional 15% will be taken off at checkout, costing a grand total of $195.50, until May 3.

Just Lovely.

Center Stage

2008-04-26T01:00:00.002-04:00

Coffee tables have many responsibilities. Usually parked in the center of the room, they are a magnet for magazines, newspapers, coffee mugs, and other sundry items. Now on sale at Macy's a round coffee table with a beautiful cherry finish, shelves for storage, and castors for easy mobility.

Originally $500, now $297, it's the perfect piece for high traffic living or family rooms.

Sure to be a star in your home.

Men on the Go

2008-04-24T22:25:00.004-04:00

Men can be hard to shop for. Finding a thoughtful gift that they will appreciate takes time. Now at Pottery Barn, an Ipod classic case in espresso for $3.99, regular price $12.00. As an added bonus, the case can be monogramed, preserving those MP3 players in style.

Perfect for your man on the go.

Estate Sale

2008-04-22T16:38:00.005-04:00

April has been a month of guests for us, and keeping the guest bedroom looking fresh and inviting is important. On Smartbargains.com, solid sateen "Grand Estate" duvet sets with intricate embroidery in chocolate, blue, or black. 68% off a 400 thread count duvet set with pillow shams. Grand Total: $39.97, regular price $125.00

Feel luxurious for a fraction of the price.

Tarshay

2008-04-22T10:30:00.002-04:00

I love Target, or as the Gateauxfab pronounce it: Tarshay (with a french accent of course). Low prices, high styles, it's a decorator's dream. The other day I noticed after quite a bit of hunting, that their clearance section has a separate 75% off section. These are the deals among the deals and filled with finds for the family. Table linens for $5, simple baby clothing for $1.24, storage bins for $7.49, the list goes on.

There is only one catch. Unlike their standard clearance section, the 75% off section is not searchable by category. Today there are about 12 pages worth of sales to sift through.

Perfect for treasure hunters on the prowl.

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2008-04-22T09:50:00.005-04:00

Surprise! It's a new post! I know, I know: I've been MIA. As some of you know I am expecting a baby in August, our first little bundle of joy. We are so thrilled, but the pregnancy has been an exhausting one as most moms out there know. Combine that with hectic schedules, major renovations to the house that required stripping the walls down to the studs, and loving family and friends visiting us on the weekends, I have not had a lot of time to write.

I have been prowling the sale racks for the good stuff though. And I hope to start blogging again on a regular basis. If there are specific things that you want to read more about, please let me know. I would love to hear what deals you are looking for. And some days I may not post, because honestly, just because something is 50% off, doesn't mean it's a great deal.

And now back to our regularly scheduled blog.

A True Aide in the Kitchen

2008-04-11T12:15:00.010-04:00

I love my KitchenAid Stand Mixer. There is just nothing that puppy can't do, primarily because of its capacity and power. Finding discounts on these mixers is rare, unless you settle for a factory refurbished machine. Today only on Amazon.com, a new 5 Quart, 325Watt, heavy duty 10 speed stand mixer for $170 (Free Shipping) in Imperial Black. In addition, a pouring shield, which is not standard (a $20-$25 bonus attachment), is included. At this price, you'd usually have to settle for a 4 1/2 quart mixer with 275 watts.

Bring on the cinnamon rolls.

Yum-O

2008-04-11T11:48:00.008-04:00

Rachel Ray is on sale. Well, not her exactly, but her cookware. The weekend bargain on Amazon.com is her 10 piece non-stick cookware for $130 with signature orange handles. Not chic, but not shabby either. It's a great graduation gift for those young folks in your life. Actually, I am more covetous of her signature "Garbage Bowl." The design is based on very pricey vintage pieces that sell for almost a hundred dollars. This weekend only, on sale at Amazon for $7.20, $10 off .

"Oh my gravy!"

The $225 trash can

2008-04-10T14:01:00.012-04:00

Today's mail brought no less than 3 Williams-Sonoma catalogs. This is a store that generally fascinates me the way toy stores fascinate 5 year olds. For one thing, there is the fantasy aspect: perhaps I do need a $170 risotto pan for my next dinner party, prepared by me in my spotless $36 apron and tasted for perfection with my $30 olive wood tasting spoon.

Yeah Right.

But what really caught my attention is this $225 trash can. There is a paragraph describing its features, but the bottom line is: It Holds Trash. I know that trash cans that match appliances and don't scream "ugly" are very appealing. But I'll pay $225 (free shipping!) for a trash can when it comes with a spouse that remembers to empty its contents on trash day.

I do however need a trash can. And even the plastic models are $15. For stainless steel, the cheapest I could find was this $40 model at Linen's and Things. Assuming you could wall paper your house with their 20% off coupons the way I could, that comes to $32 for a 30L stainless steel trash can and a 3liter "bonus" can. Not great, but not bad either.

Because nobody wants to throw their money in the trash.

Fit for a Queen

2008-04-09T15:52:00.007-04:00

Before my husband and I got married, neither of us had much in the furniture department. When we bought our first house, my thoughts immediately went to a nice bedroom set. But the prices for headboards, platforms, night stands, and dressers definitely made me pause. Nice furniture bargains require a careful eye, which is why this queen sized bed frame caught my attention. Made of uber strong rubberwood, with a striking walnut cherry finish, this bed frame doesn't require a box spring. Regular Price $1082.00, it is on sale for $352, a $730 savings. A coordinating dresser and night stand are also available. Shipping is only an additional $2.95.

At prices like that, we can all sleep like royalty.

Top Chef

2008-04-08T15:34:00.005-04:00

It's all the rage in Europe and now it's finally here. I'm not talking about Gucci handbags or Prada shoes, I'm talking kitchen appliances. Specifically, the Beaba Babycook, now available in the U.S. at Williams-Sonoma and Splendora.com . A French made blender, steamer, defroster, and re-heater all in one, it makes home made baby food a snap, and saves mom from having to clean a dozen different appliances, pots and pans. The steamer preserves the nutrients in fish, meat, fruits, and vegetables in just 15 minutes. The blender requires just a turn of the knob and when the light turns off, the food is ready. As an added bonus: home made baby food can save about $250 a year, and has been found more nutritious.

So easy a baby could do it.

Cristal

2008-04-04T10:49:00.006-04:00

Let's face it, unless you're french, champagne is not an everyday beverage. Special drinks for special occasions, they deserve a special glass. Crystal is the best, but buying a table's worth of flutes can be expensive. Unless you catch this clearance sale at Macy's. Elegant, yet modern, these tall crystal flutes are etched with stars to mimic the bubbles in your bubbly. Marked 50% off, they are on sale for $20 a pair and make great gifts or additions to your crystal collection. As an added bonus, purchase between April 2-6, and receive an extra 15% off. Filled with my favorite gateauxfab sparkler, they are sure to be the star of your table.

Did someone say mimosas?

Give it a Shot

2008-03-31T14:36:00.006-04:00

Espresso was originally invented by a guy named Luigi Bezzera, an Italian man short on time, who wanted an express cup of coffee, hence espresso. Who knew? Today espresso machines are expensive and miles away from how the tradition first began. The truly high end models run thousands of dollars and lower priced units are full of complicated parts and pieces to clean. Add the counter or cabinet space necessary to store them, and the $4 espresso at Starbucks seems worth it. But a $26 solution in the spirit of Luigi is available. The Aeropress coffee and espresso maker is a truly simple and inexpensive way to make authentic espresso for the pickiest coffee snobs. Just put the microfilter sheet in the cap (it comes with a one year supply) and coffee grounds into the chamber. Microwave hot water for 20 seconds (175 degrees) and add to the cap. Let it sit for 10 seconds, and slowly plunge the coffee into your cup (for 20 seconds) for a perfectly brewed shot of expresso. The clean up involves pushing the grounds into the garbage can and rinsing the plunger. The best part at $26 it will pay for itself within a week. Don't believe me? See for yourself.

Have your espresso and drink it too.

Easy Riser

2008-03-26T09:35:00.006-04:00

I am not sure when it happens, but at some point in a young adult's life, the futon mattress disappears. It's a gradual process, rarely planned, that usually involves re-gifting to a younger sibling or friend. Taking it's place is the guest bedroom, or for multiple guests air beds. Available at liquidator Tuesday Morning, Pillow top Queen Size Air Beds for $80, regular price $200. The mattress inflates within 30 seconds with a remote control button and the pillow top is covered in velour to make your guests extra comfortable. When your guests leave, the bed deflates in 1 minute and stores away in a duffle bag for their next visit. As an added bonus it can support 750 pounds.

So your famous sticky buns can stay on the brunch menu.

Oh So Soft

2008-03-25T10:05:00.005-04:00

Spring is here, but it's still chilly outside. A soft blanket, great movie, and a cozy couch make a perfect sunday afternoon. The movie and couch are up to you, but the blanket is taken care of. Micro-plush fiber blankets now available in five different colors for $9.97, regular price $40, at Macy's.

These are closeout sales, so once they're gone, they're gone.

Tell your spouse to get their own.

Wall Art

2008-03-24T10:09:00.008-04:00

I love my drill. It's a handy little thing, that over the years has been a true friend. Using the wall to decorate vertically keeps the house organized and creates unique spaces. Now on sale at Potterybarn, the perfect combination of function and style. Wide, sturdy "entertaining shelves" which store either six bottles of wine or 10 wine glasses. The upper portion of the wine racks are deep enough to hold cookbooks, flowers, photo frames, and other wall art. Can be mixed, matched, or stacked to create a beautiful wall with a modern look. Perfect for an empty dining room wall or kitchen wall. Each shelf is $30, regular price $65 each.

Extra space in your kitchen: priceless.

Bath time

2008-03-23T09:42:00.000-04:00

I love the Hotel Collection line at Macy's. Thick, durable, and constructed with solid Turkish cotton, they are truly luxurious. The catch? A simple bath mat can cost $55. Ah, if only there were a close out sale like this one. Now on sale for $16.48, it's just the right deal for anyone looking to add a little comfort and luxury to their bath time. The catch? It's a closeout sale, so once they are gone, they are gone.

Soaking in the tub never sounded better.

Nothing but "Nett"

2008-03-22T00:04:00.011-04:00

When you have a juicy steak awaiting you, the last thing you want is a dull knife standing between you and bliss. Have no fear, extremely sharp German Wustof Euro steak knives can save the meal. Made in Portugal of high carbon, stain resistant steel, the regularly priced $45 set, is now on sale for $20. With a sleek and ergonomic design, Wustof knives are some of the highest quality cutlery available.

And at such a low price, leaves more money to splurge on dinner.

Tablescape

2008-03-21T09:41:00.008-04:00

I don't put plastic over my tablecloths. Perhaps it's because I don't have children yet, but mostly it's because I use the most inexpensive ones possible and scotch guard them. At the JC Penny outlet this week, it doesn't get more affordable than this. Damask linens made of machine washable cotton/polyester, are comparable in quality to more expensive linens, and yet the prices range from $2.99 for a set of 4 napkins or table runner to $4.99 for a set of four placemats. Tablecloths range from $4.99 to $6.99 and are available in a range of colors while supplies last.

Bring on the red wine.

Not for Squares

2008-03-20T09:48:00.005-04:00

Looking for Lamps? Picture it: white on white square etchings. Satin finished ceramic. Topped with a black shade lined in white to radiate more light, and a 50% of discount. Now see it: the Squares Table Lamp at Crate and Barrel. It has both style and function and now on sale for $35, regular price $70.

Seeing is believing.

Extreme Patio Makeover

2008-03-19T08:25:00.000-04:00

Where I live, today is a cold, blustery, winter day. Hard to believe, but summer is only a few months away. Not too soon to start thinking about a patio makeover. Instead of the standard iron framed furniture, why not upgrade to a sleeker all weather wood set? Made
of durable all-weather Indonesian Kapur hardwood this patio set is both practical and stylish. $80 for each cushioned armchair, $99 for each cushioned bench, and $70 for each coffee table. The wood is galvanized and the hardware is rustproof. Available at Amazon.com

Super Saver

2008-03-18T08:42:00.005-04:00

Today only at Linen's and Things, a great space saver: Luigi Bormioli 4 in 1 Cake Plate. Regular price $35.99, on sale for $17.99. A footed cake stand, chip and dip, 5 section crudite server or punch bowl rolled into one, it has everything you need for when company stops by. Free Shipping today only, and use coupon code: 26620000008 for an extra 20% off.

Who says you can't have your cake and eat it too.

Organized Home

2008-03-17T09:19:00.006-04:00

How many times have you walked out of the house without the thank you card you meant to write in during lunch, or the glasses you need to write it. No more. Fun, kitchy, and very practical Patinastores.com has a great little item to keep life on track. The Pink Door Organizer hangs on any door and stores all of life's forgotten essentials. Permission slips for children, reminder notes, your keys, bills that need mailing, and just about anything else that needs remembering.

Made with sturdy canvas and lined with sweet white stitches it has three roomy pockets in the front and a clip in the back to hold all over sized necessities. For $11.16 it comes in Red or Pink.

Now if only it helped remind your loved ones to pick up their socks.

The Georgetown Look

2008-03-16T09:59:00.009-04:00

Like most newlyweds, my husband and I have residual furniture leftovers from our single lives. For some people it is that quintessential leather lounger men love to watch their favorite sports in. For us, it's an IKEA coffee table purchased circa 2000 for $75. It's definitely time to upgrade, which is why these estate style coffee, sofa, and drum tables from Macy's caught my eye. Starting at $397 for this mahogany sofa table to $499 for a coffee table, these pieces are finished with a rich mahogany veneer and have a classic shell motif, similar to furniture made in the 1780's during the reign of King George. Loaded with detail, it makes an elegant statement without breaking the bank.

Shhh. Don't tell the neighbors.

Hotel Style

2008-03-15T09:48:00.001-04:00

After a long day, a comfortable bed with soft fresh linens can make bedtime something to look forward to. Luxury Nancy Koltes linens are now available online at liquidator Tuesday Morning at almost 70% off. An American designer, her linens are made in Italy, and sold in boutiques in Beverly Hills, SoHo, Laguna Beach, and four other cities in the U.S. The 300 thread count cotton sateen sheets have deep pockets and fit 17 inch mattresses. Regular price $155, they are now on sale for $49.99 per Queen set, $59.99 per King or California King set. Each set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and 2 pillow cases in white on white stripe.

Sure to turn any bedroom into a 5 star hotel.

How to Keep Your Cool

2008-03-14T09:02:00.005-04:00

A lazy summer day on the deck isn't complete without an ice cold drink and a party isn't a party without plenty of cold ones. To keep everyone out of your fridge and outside in the fun, consider this beautiful outdoor cooler from Cost Plus World Market. Constructed of plantation-grown Indonesian Acacia wood, it has sturdy hurdles for easy moving and carrying and a water resistant basin for storing ice. At $129.90 it looks like similar luxury models retailing for 10x the price.

Now that's cool.

Right on Target

2008-03-13T12:01:00.002-04:00

When my husband and I first moved in together, our first major purchase was a rug. We must have searched a dozen stores trying to find rugs that wouldn't break the bank, had a neutral color scheme, and looked like a quality textile. It never occurred to me to shop at Target for rugs. In addition to a luxury rug division, they have a large selection of wool rugs at modest price points, available primarily through their website. This rectangular Vienna Woven rug is shipped for free and ranges between $30-$280 at Target in a host of sizes. With a variety of styles and colors to choose from, there is something for every type of decor.

At those prices, you're sure to avoid rug burn.

Down Right Comfortable

2008-03-12T00:01:00.000-04:00

There are few things as cozy as a thick down comforter on a crisp cold night. A good comforter is an investment and one of life's great indulgences. Now you can enjoy the warmth of a quality down comforter for the price of a blanket. At Macy's this week for $29.97, (regular price $100) a queen size down comforter with 200 thread count cover. The natural fibers adapt to your body temperature, and the baffle box construction prevent the stuffing from bunching together. King sizes are also available for $32.97.

Sleep Tight.

Hold back

2008-03-11T08:57:00.000-04:00

Children's room furnishings open up a whole new world of color and design. Kids allow you to be more whimsical and fun. And it's nice when their rooms reflect their personalities. It's also nice when you can do it within a budget. At JC Penney's for $4.99 come these sweet curtain holdback sets for children's rooms. Hand painted and made of durable enamel and metal, they offer lots of color and will match most decors. Curtain rods are also available for $5.99.

These are outlet prices, so once they are gone, they're gone.

Window hardware for $11, now that's hard to holdback from.

Sleep like a Baby

2008-03-10T09:04:00.000-04:00

Selecting baby furniture can be both a joy and a chore. Finding a smart design with safety features to protect baby, and a price low enough to leave money for diapers is not always easy. However, now at Overstock.com, is this Bridgeport Cherry Crib. The crib includes five position posture perfect mattress support, rolling or lockable casters for portability, and is made with solid wood. The bed converts into a toddler bed or loveseat and the sides convert into a full-size headboard and footboard for when the baby gets older.

Regular price $600, now on sale for $230.

With prices like that, mom and dad can sleep like a baby too.

Shimmy Shimmer

2008-03-08T11:19:00.004-05:00

For 75 cents at Crate and Barrel, these cloth napkins will put a little sparkle on your dinner table without denting the budget. Infused with metallic threads, it's glamorous without being too fussy.
Best of all they are machine washable. Available in Ice Blue or Red.

No fuss, no muss.

Sweet Dreams

2008-03-07T08:27:00.002-05:00

There are few joys in life like a cupcake. Just looking at them brings back memories of childhood. What better way to enjoy them (and save a bit of time) than to bake one large cupcake with this Wilton Giant Cupcake Pan. Made of non-stick material, it works with any 10 cup cake recipe and is sure to bring smiles to all your guests faces. $27.95 at Sur La Table.

Makes for one very happy birthday.

Cutting Edge

2008-03-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

Just in time for Easter, Macy's is having a pre-season sale on this high quality Wustof Carving Set, with case from Germany. Made without welding, from a single sheet of high carbon, stain resistant steel, all Wustof knives are precision forged by hand. The cost? A very modest $29.97, regular price $75.

Now that's sharp.

Ottoman Empire

2008-03-05T00:02:00.003-05:00

For a number of reasons, storage is always at a premium. It doesn't matter if you live in a 600 square foot condo or a 6000 square foot house. Clutter has a way of taking over living spaces when it doesn't have an assigned place to go. Which is what makes this cubed ottoman from Linen's and Things so great. It opens for storage and the top becomes a tray, great for when you need just a little more storage or surface space. Plus it serves as a foot stool or seat when needed and the faux leather finish fits in with most rooms. The best part, you can use one of the million 20% off coupons Linen's and Things has sent you, or borrow one from a friend. Turning this $60 bargain into a $48 steal.

Now that's a real Turkish Delight.

Loveshack

2008-03-04T00:03:00.006-05:00

Pop Quiz: What's cool and fun and has four legs?

Answer: The new Briar Loveseat from CB2.

Not a wing chair, not a sofa, it's the perfect combination seat for hard to dress spaces.The neutral stripes match most color schemes and the kiln dried frame with hardwood legs, is assembled in the U.S. Available at CB2 for $899.

Less stuffy, more fun. Now that's Love.

Copper Topper

2008-03-03T00:07:00.011-05:00

I love to cook, and like most newly weds I'm still learning. One of the first things I learned: heat is the most important ingredient in the kitchen, and copper is the best conductor of heat. Unfortunately good copper cookware comes from Europe, and most European cookware is expensive, heavy, and lined with tin.

For Americans that want the benefits of copper cookware, but don't want to spend $200 for a frying pan, Calphalon's TryPly Copper Cookware is a good blend of European copper cookware and All Clad cookware. Lined with 18/10 stainless steel, it is a cinch to clean; and the 2mm of copper are surrounded by an aluminum core for heat conduction like All Clad. Like all good cookware, it has riveted handles, fitted lids, and is oven safe to 500 degrees.

Best of all, unlike the thousands of dollars copper sets can cost, Calphalon's Copper series is made in the U.S. and 70% cheaper. A 10 piece set is available at Cooking.com and Crate and Barrel for $450.

Now that's something to relish.

Old World

2008-03-02T00:09:00.012-05:00

From Umbria Italy, near Tuscany, come these extravagantly hand painted canisters. These Deruta style ceramics are perfect for coffee, sugar, and other kitchen staples. Now 60% off at Williams-Sonoma for $39.99. Regular price $99.99, these blooming vine canisters have a delicate and elegant and look to them.

Molto Bene

2008-03-01T03:40:00.000-05:00

Sometimes less is more.

Guests on hand and nothing but chedder cheese and ritz crackers in the house? They'll look gourmet on this handcarved and oh so beautiful italian breadboard.

Pottery Barn Rustic Bread Board for $19.99.

Bellisimo.

Not your Mother's JC Penny

2008-02-29T00:02:00.004-05:00

I confess: The last time I went to JC Penny I was a kid tagging along behind my mother. As soon as I was old enough to do my own shopping, I didn't look back. Today, their website reveals a modern store, maintaining its sensibly priced roots. Still, the last thing I expected to find was this ornate floral and vine wood carving. At $69, it's a great price and packs a strong visual statement. The dark brown finish mimics rubberwood from Indonesia. As a bonus, until March 4th, enter discount code XBMS while checking out for an additional $10-$20 off, depending on your final total. All returns can be made at JC Penny retail stores and shipping charges will be refunded.

Now that is my mother's JC Penny.

Show me the Light

2008-02-28T23:59:00.000-05:00

Lamps are probably my favorite home deco pieces. They make rooms warm and inviting and unusual colors and designs can add interest to any room. But a good lamp can also run upwards of a hundred dollars, making frequent swap outs unlikely. Good thing Pier1 has some great solutions. Their styles range from modern to traditional and the prices start at just $29.

($49 for this glass block lamp, regular price $89) The catch? They don't deliver. Pier1's website will help you find the store closest to you.

And show you the light.

Stonecold Fox

2008-02-27T14:40:00.000-05:00

Japanese Raku pottery is both elegant and informal. The beautifully glazed stoneware can add a rustic and sophisticated look to the table. Real Raku can cost upwards of $30 a plate however, making a six or eight piece place setting an investment. Enter CB2, the cheaper, hipper, sister company of Crate and Barrel. Currently on sale are 11" Jade dinner plates for $3.25 each, salad plates and bowls for $2.95.

Take out never looked more home made.

Fake Out

2008-02-26T11:59:00.000-05:00

Fireplaces are cozy, but what if your house or condo didn't come with one? Introducing the wall mounted fireplace. It's reasonably sized (25in x 27 in) and requires no installation (just a wall hook). The wall mounted fireplace uses three cans of gel fuel to create real warmth with the snap and crackle of a wood burning fireplace. Best of all there is no mess to clean up. Available at overstock.com for $199. 24 cans of gel fuel for $99. All delivered straight to your door for $2.95.

Perfect for sunrooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and anywhere else a little winter warmth would be welcome. Now that's hot.

Summer Dreams

2008-02-25T11:15:00.000-05:00

Cold winter climes can leave even the most die hard winter lover yearning for spring. Picnics and outdoor gatherings can be a wonderful way to celebrate the end of hibernation. What better way to prepare than with getting your own Picnic Basket. Packed with everything you need for a perfect outing, including plates, glasses, utensils and napkins for 4. The best part: ordinarily between $30 and $60 at Macys, it is now on sale for $19.99. Great for housewarmings and wedding gifts.

Leaving enough left over for a lovely bottle of wine.

Bottoms Up

2008-02-07T20:24:00.000-05:00

Glassware can take some abuse in our house. Whether it be an unfortunate dishwasher mishap, visiting children, or one two many cocktails, drinking glasses, wine glasses, and cocktail glasses have a way of chipping or breaking. So for casual bar and drinkware, I love the Crate and Barrel Outlet. Like any outlet, their collections rotate and the discounts are deep. Great selections right now include this all purpose tumbler for 95 cents which as it's name suggests can handle almost any requirement stylishly. Kira Martini Glasses for $1.95 can also double as ice cream bowls or dessert dishes. A decanter for $2.95 is perfect as a bedside water pitcher.

That's worth raising your glass to toast.

GlobeTrekker

2008-02-04T14:03:00.001-05:00

One of things DH and I try to do is make time for travel, and sometimes it's to a place which requires mosquito cream and boiled water. Traveling to a third world country can be rewarding and the crafts and textiles indigenous to Africa, Asia, and South America are truly amazing. But international travel is not always easy, and bringing back that beautiful leather table from Peru may seem impossible. Which is why I like Worldstock, a store within Overstock.com, an internet liquidator. Unlike PotteryBarn and other major U.S. furniture and fabric importers, Worldstock purchases from artisans directly, and its markups are far less than other retailers. They don't work with any artisans that employ or apprentice child labor and the direct transfer of funds promotes economic and environmental sustainability. Currently shipping is free on their website, their return policy is 30 days, and unvarishned customer reviews of each item provide honest feedback. Particularly interesting were these Hand painted Storage Boxes from China:$47 ; hand blown mexican glass for $55 and handpainted Moraccan Ceramic Vases for $38.

And you didn't even have to lug it through customs.

Smooth Traveler

2008-01-25T09:32:00.000-05:00

There was a time when air travel was fun. When strangers didn't rifle through your luggage and question you endlessly about nail clippers and cologne. Enter the Travelon 14" wheeled carry on. Made out of ballistic nylon with unique see through panels, the front and sides of the bag zip open for easy viewing of contents by airport security, leaving your unmentionables untouched. The best part? It's now online at liquidator Tuesday Morning for $49.99, regular price $99.99, a 50% savings.

Leaving plenty leftover to spend on souvenirs.

Window Dressing

2008-01-23T17:37:00.000-05:00

When my husband and I bought our first home, the sunroom was what grabbed my heart. Warm, sparkling morning light flooding through the 12 windows led to daydreams of morning coffee, muffins, and the newspaper with my husband. Of course, what I didn't think about was how much it would cost to put window treatments on all 12 of those windows. Ouch. So I was intrigued to find these window treatments at smartbargins.com, which gets its inventory from the very fabulous Loehmann's Discount Stores. With access to one of the largest liquidators in the country, smartbargins has an amazing collection of fabrics and the discounts are attractive. Particularly, interesting were these lined J aipur Dupioni Silk panels for $59.97 per 96 inch set. Compare that to the sale of Dupioni Silk at Pottery Barn for $99 per panel. Cons? Like Loehmanns, smartbargins.com might only carry certain sizes and colors depending on their stock, so you may have to keep checking. Pros? Checking online is a lot easier than wading through piles of fabric in a discount store. And saving 50% percent of your budget can leave plenty to daydream about.

Season's Leftovers

2008-01-22T23:36:00.000-05:00

This time of year is when retailers are trying to unload some of their leftover holiday wares. Sometimes the deals are good, and sometimes, well, it depends. Holiday wreaths are in the good category if you've got the space to store them for next season. For $14.99 at Pottery Barn an 18 inch wreath woven with faux rose hips, berries, and leaves. Regular price: $59, a $44 savings.

Leaves more money to be merry with at Christmas.

Linens To Sink Into

2008-01-21T22:50:00.000-05:00

The nice thing about Pottery Barn Linens is they are made with thick Egyptian Cotton that doesn't pill after a few washes. Their quality is high but often it comes with an above average price tag. So I try to grab their linens whenever they have sales, and here is a big one: King Size quilts for $69, regular price $199. Standard and Euro Size Pillow Shams are also available for $9.99, regular price $29, each. The catch? They are only available in Harbor Blue. Perfect for the linen chest when guests come.

Internet Only.

Hand Dipped Tapered Candles

2008-01-20T22:26:00.000-05:00

I love candles on the dinner table, but it's not worth the mess to buy cheap candles that drip all over the tablecloth, and the good ones, well they can be pricey. Crate and Barrel now has a set of six hand dipped 10" ivory candles on sale for $2.95. Regular Price: $7.95. Made in Denmark.

Just in time for Valentine's Day.