Elaine Tse, who left the world of finance to pursue her passion of making semi-precious jewelry and handbags, has been working out of a studio Old City since 2002, creating several lines of delicate, feminine jewelry that are sold at boutiques around the country.

At her retail home base, a jewel box of a corner shop in Rittenhouse Square, she extends beyond her own creations, selling baubles and trinkets of all types. Tselaine is the perfect pre-party stop-in spot for finding the perfect little gift. Pick up chunky scented candles for a hostess, hand-bound journals for acquaintances’ birthdays, cat-shaped staplers for your co-workers, and even trinkets for your friends’ kids (check out the shiny, vintage-looking wind-up toy section). The collection is always changing, and like any good independent shop, local artisans are well-represented.

Tse’s own necklaces, bracelets, tiaras, and earrings burst with translucent floral-colored beads and reside in display cases in the front. Her most extravagant pieces, ornate enough to wear with a wedding gown, are bedecked with freshwater pearls and crystals. But her most popular pieces come from the “branch” collection, in which silver or gold wires are woven to evoke flowers, leaves and tree limbs.

Tselaine
1927 Walnut St., Philadelphia PA 19103
215-301-4752
www.tselaine.com

As we tighten our belts during these frugal times, we’re training our take-out dialing fingers to cook up something in our very own kitchen.

In an effort to avoid the world of bland, I’ve been spending more time in the Italian Market Spice Store. Beyond the go-to staples of salt, pepper and your basic herbs, the Spice Store is stocked with every dried spice that you’ve ever heard of on the Food Network. Yes, that’s right. You can finally make those dishes that call for the unknown herb or spice. From lavender, to cayenne, pickling spices, jalapeño powder, pumpkin pie spice, olive dipping spice, and countless other spices from around the world, I’ll guarantee they have enough spices to please the pickiest foodie’s palette.

But the flavor overload doesn’t stop at dried seasoning, as they also carry an array of flour (almond flour, semolina chestnut flour), coffee and loose tea, along with an assortment of dried fruit/nuts and other baking ingredients.

And to make this deal even sweeter (or saltier depending on your tastes), you’ll save by buying these spices in bulk rather than overpaying for the fancy schmancy grocery store brands. Make sure to leave your plastic cards at home, as they only take cash.

Italian Market Spice Store
949 S 9th St Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 627-8039
www.italianmarketspice.com

It all started with a Maryland surf shack in the summer of ‘68.

Over forty years later, South Moon Under’s Center City outpost remains true to its laid back, free-spirited roots but its spirit has been infused with a taste of Rittenhouse sophistication. The chain’s team of buyers culls fashion show lineups and hundreds of vendors’ racks each year to select a unique collection of women’s and men’s casual clothes, jewelry, accessories, swimwear and footwear for its twelve East Coast locations.

Perfect for the spiking summer temps: wander into the conveniently situated 1731 Chestnut shop to browse the impressive second floor bathing suit stock, from tankinis to separates to cover-ups to board shorts for the dudes. While you’re upstairs, flip through the always-promising sale racks, offering major discounts on highly coveted pieces year round. Guys don’t miss out, either: quality button down shirts, hoodies and shorts are paired with worth-the-price-tag watches, sunglasses, wallets and hats.

Scattered throughout the shop are South Moon Under’s finely honed habitat items, the home decor and gift-giving pieces that set the store apart from its many apparel-only counterparts. You might find a coffee table book, kitchen wares like cutting boards or glasses, or great living room sprucer-uppers like frames and throw pillows.

Summer is South Moon Under’s claim to fame season, given its typical billing as a swimwear destination- but any month, for any need, it’s a veritable member of the Philly shopping scene. The two sets of fitting rooms accommodate customers well, and the easily navigable store layout, sleek hardwood floors and friendly staff make the experience pleasant. Plus, at the heart of the Rittenhouse shopping district, chances are it’s on your way to or from another destination. Di Bruno’s cheese samples anyone?

South Moon Under
1731 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 568-2170
www.southmoonunder.com

If you’ve recently upgraded from college futon, fold-out “furniture” and are looking to revamp your cookie cutter IKEA look with some fabulous one-of-kind pieces, then you need to make a trip to Hello Home, the stylish home décor shop located on Pine Street on Antique Row. (And just to clear up any confusion, Hello World was previously located on 12th and Pine, but can now be found 10th and Pine) Along with the hop, skip and a jump change of location, owner and interior decorator, J. Lamancuso, appropriately changed the name from Hello World to Hello Home as the store’s goods focus on your casa (although he still carries fabulous bags, jewelry and other goodies to accessorize your persona).

Staying true to the Antique Row location, Hello Home is filled to the brim with mid century furniture and home décor accessories, from Andy Warhol plates, 1960’s international studio pottery, antique drawings and paintings, molded fiber glass chairs, a bevy of 60’s bar carts, not to mention a refurbished signed Paul McCobb planner group dresser, and many more home accoutrements that Lamancuso handpicks from estate sales and auctions (it’s like having your very own interior decorator).

Beyond the vintage, Hello Home will satisfy your modern love with an array of contemporary home décor, such as Trina Turk’s bold rugs, wasabi mint and bergamot tobacco candles, minimalist wooden menorahs, guitar ice cube trays, a plethora of vivid pillow, an entire display of tea forte, enough lamps to light up your life, and an endless amount of other décor accessories (vases, frames, etc) to turn your blank four wall box into a design blog worthy home.

Oh, and even though your eyes will be glued to the décor goodies, make sure to take a peek at the fabulous patterned ceiling!

Hello Home
1004 Pine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
www.shophelloworld.com

The first thing that struck me when I met Jimmy, as we were paired together for the Dancing with the Philadelphia Stars charity event, was his friendliness. The same feeling struck me when I first walked into JimmyStyle, his Home Gift & Baby boutique on East Passayunk.

Sex & the City fans will love the blue walls, inspired by Carrie’s apartment, the giant “Love” painted on a wall from the same name key chain, and the famous movie playing in circle on a flat screen TV.

From candles and soaps to small furniture, from all-natural cake mixes to recycled shopping totes, the home gift section covers most of the boutique’s floor, and Jimmy proudly carries local products such as Duross + Langel beauty care and HughE Dillon greeting cards. But my favorite part is the “Nobody puts Baby in the corner” baby corner, with its cute and colorful baby collection… in French!

And because Jimmy got some style, JimmyStyle will soon have its own scent. In September, the boutique will partner with Duross + Langel to lauch the JimmyStyle Soap. For the occasion, the soap maker will come to East Passayunk and demonstrate his art on site.

Whether your budget is $5 or $500, check out JimmyStyle’s funky yet functional collection. You might find something to gift, something for yourself, or find a new inspirational messages on the chalkboard wall. Whatever you go with, you’ll do it in style.

JimmyStyle
1820 East Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA
www.shopjimmystyle.com

Joan Shepp’s namesake shop, packed among the chain stores of Walnut Street, is a true standout. Shoppers feel cooler just walking into the industrial-chic, white-washed space, which feels more like a downtown loft than a boutique. After over 35 years in the business (her first two stores opened in the suburbs in 1971), Shepp is Philadelphia’s reigning queen of high-end fashion. She and her daughter make annual trips to the major fashion weeks and use their discerning eyes to choose pieces that are trendy and sophisticated.

The result is a carefully curated designer selection of everything you need to get dressed: shoes, accessories, bags, and a mix of wardrobe staples (smartly tailored shirts and Jil Sander pants) and avant-garde looks (asymmetrical patterned Gaultier dresses). There is a smattering of new designers on the racks, but tried-and-true names prevail: Yohji Yamamoto, Sonia Rykiel, Ann Demeulemeester, and Junya Watanabe are among the perennial favorites.

And if you’re so busy salivating over everything you need some extra help navigating the collection, you can set up a personal style consultation with one of the boutique’s seasoned staffers.

Joan Shepp
1616 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
215-735-2666
www.joanshepp.com

PHAG (Philadelphia Home Art Garden) has been a staple of the Philadelphia Gayborhood for years. Don’t let the narrow storefront fool you; PHAG occupies the entire depth of the building and even has a second floor in the back.

Unlike many high-end boutiques, PHAG actually carries some reasonably priced furniture pieces and fountains. In fact, PHAG Interiors will even help you make selections and plan entire rooms.

The real reason to visit, however, is for all the great gifts they sell. For any occasion, PHAG is worth the visit. Your cocktail-loving friends will be thrilled with their extensive collection of bar accessories, and the mini-Martha Stewart in your life will love the home decor accents. Not really a close-enough friend for an actual gift? Check out the card selection on the second floor loft. Almost anything you select will be sure to elicit laughs from the recipient.

PHAG is open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 8pm, and 12-6 on Sunday, and 24 hours a day online at www.thephagshop.com.

PHAG
1225 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA
(215) 627-0461
www.thephagshop.com

I am a fan of the cheese counter at the Rittenhouse Square Di Bruno Bros. store. It offers just as many cheese options as its South Philly counterpart, but without the frenzy or crush of customers (although, if you’ve never been to the original location in the Italian Market, get down there. It is a not-to-be-missed, authentic Philadelphia experience).

I discovered something over the weekend that endeared the Di Bruno cheese counter to me even further. On the counter, tucked in among the samples and limited edition cheeses, there is a unassuming 4 x 6 sized, notecard file box. Customers are encouraged to open it up, grab a card and record their favorite cheese purchases.

Filed alphabetically, your card will be there to remind you which cheeses you’ve sampled and which you liked enough to take home. You can record your likes and dislikes, as well as make note of that rinsed rind cheese you’ve been meaning to try, but has already been priced out of the June food budget (if anyone is looking for a new blue to try, I’m currently devoted to the Jasper Hill Bayley Hazen Blue).

Go forth and eat cheese!

Di Bruno Brothers
1730 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
P. 215-665-9220
www.dibruno.com

Stores like Omoi (pronounced Oh-mo-ee) don’t just pop up out of nowhere. They always seem to have a cool back-story. Owner Liz Seiber got the idea from studying abroad in Japan and finding her favorite things to bring back to Philadelphia. Liz said Omoi, which roughly translates as “thoughts” or “ideas” in Japanese, is a store you might see in Osaka or Tokyo with a distinctly Japanese perspective, making it something special and not just another place selling novelty goods and Hello Kitty.

You’ll likely find a lot of French, European and American labels as well as authentic Japanese goods with brands like 2K by Gingham, Cram Cream along with more familiar names like TRKFLD and KidRobot. Omoi deals out men’s and women’s clothing; a constantly changing collection of gifts, collectibles and stationary.

Look forward to an expanded selection of premium Japanese stationary in the coming weeks and a sale the last week of June.

Omoi
1608 Pine St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 545-0963
www.omoionline.com

This is how you celebrate a second anniversary on Rittenhouse Square.

To commemorate two years on the historic, high-end retail corridor, Lisa M. Reisman et Cie, the square’s extensive print gallery and boutique, is opening an exhibit blending design and original research on Wednesday June 17th. And there’s going to be a party.

The exhibit, called La Fête du Savon, will present Art Nouveau and Art Déco chromolithographic labels created in Fin-de-Siècle France for the soap and perfume industries, dating back to late 19th and early 20th centuries. The exhibit explores the coquettish allure of vintage French commercial art from this early stage of graphic design history, and the culture that created a demand for such imagery.

To celebrate the exhibit opening, Lisa M. Reisman et Cie is holding a reception from 6-9 p.m on June 17th. Summer punch and pastries will be served at the free and open event. La Fête du Savon will be on display at the gallery through July 31st. A closing event will be scheduled in late July.

All of the displayed works will be accompanied by interpretive curatorial text and be available for purchase. Additionally, four specially designed, ready to frame exhibition posters will be available for $20 each. For more information, call 215-735-2781 or visit www.lisart.com.

La Fête du Savon Reception
Wednesday June 17th, 6-9 p.m.

Lisa M. Reisman et Cie
1714 Rittenhouse Square Street
215-735-2781
www.lisart.com\

Hooray for InLiquid! This weekend marks their 10th annual Art For The Cash Poor event, and as our perspective has changed somewhat with the economy, the title now carries a more poignant tone…

Belt tightening or not, we always try to support the arts and bring art that speaks to us into our lives, and Rachel Zimmerman and her crew have, once again, put together an arts happening where you can meet the artists and experience their work. Once again at the Crane Arts Building on North American Street, this is a two day event that is free, free, free, so whether you pocketbook is flush or flat, bicycle the few blocks north of 3rd & Girard and have a blast!

InLiquid’s Art for the Cash Poor 10
www.inliquid.com/features/aftcp10/details.php

Crane Arts LLC
1400 N American St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
(215) 232-3203
www.cranearts.com

Trying to eat more local greens? Or maybe you’re visiting Philly and want to try some of Lehigh Valley’s famed abundance. Take yourself to the Fair Food Farmstand in Reading Terminal Market. Run by the White Dog Café Foundation, The Farmstand focuses on local and artisinal products produced by small local farms.

From vegetables and herbs to meat, dairy and cheese, the store supports over 90 local organic farms. An educated and enthusiastic staff will be happy to tell you the difference between green garlic and Spring scapes, and you’ll find out just what is in season in the Philadelphia area.

In one trip you can pick up groceries for an entire local meal, and maybe discover some new flora favorites. Have to hit the road? Don’t worry – they also carry delicious non-perishables like homemade granola and John and Kira’s chocolates.

Though the Farmstand been a fixture at Reading Terminal for years, they’ve just moved to a larger location with expanded hours.

Reading Terminal Market
1200 Arch St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 925-1511
www.readingterminalmarket.org

Recently, our video blogger Stephen Metzger stopped in to visit Hudson Beach Glass Studio in Old City, Philadelphia. Husband and wife team Sean and Emily Gilvey took him around the studio and shop, and Sean even showed him how he creates his gorgeous glass flowers. Cool!

For more information on Hudson Beach Glass Studio, be sure to visit their official website. Enjoy the video!

Hudson Beach Glass Studio
26 South Strawberry Street, Philadelphia PA, 19106
(267) 319-1887
www.hudsonbeachglasspa.com

The 100 South block of 13th Street has received one the chicest makeovers in Center City. We’ve got OpenHouse, a home, kitchen, bath and gift shop, the wildly popular bring-your-own-tequila restaurant Lolita, and the wonderful modern Indian BYOB, Bindi.

Another great addition? Meet the newly opened Verde, a garden, gift and chocolate shop. Blooming plants on the sidewalk signal the store’s purpose. Inside, you’ll find the tools to turn your little city patch of weeds and cement into something more beautiful. Botanical themed bath products and hostess gifts occupy the back of the store, directly in front of a huge chocolate counter, serving up homemade truffles. Swing by and check it out.

Verde
108 South 13th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 546-8700
www.verdephiladelphia.com

Attention you all-star shoppers! Skip the mall, log off eBay and enjoy spending your cash in the great outdoors. The 2009 Art Star Craft Bazaar is happening this weekend from 11AM to 6PM on both Saturday and Sunday. Crafts, food, free gifts, live music and play for the kiddies-it all takes place at Penn’s Landing Great Plaza thanks to the good people of Art Star Gallery.

Craftaholics get ready, ‘cause this bazaar is big! Over 100 emerging artists fresh off the Indie Craft Scene have been selected by Art Star for this show. That means that artists and crafters from all over the country will be displaying their work for your shopping pleasure. Take your pick from a fine array of clothing and jewelry, handmade dolls, hats, house wares and stationary. There will even be a selection of fine art like prints, sculpture, ceramics, glass and more. And the best part? It’s all surprisingly budget-friendly and, of course all handmade, with that distinctive quirky Art Star aesthetic.

Wanna know what music you can enjoy while you shop? Check the line up out after the jump!

To add more fun to the afternoon there will be a chance to win a craft-stocked gift basket filled with goodies like 2 tickets to Inliquid’s Anniversary Benefit and a 3-Month Group Membership to Balance Health Center.

And when you’ve worked up an appetite, stop by NoLibs hot spots A Full Plate and The Soy Café, who will be on hand to feed hungry shoppers. Meanwhile, keep the little ones amused with hands on ceramic projects courtesy of The Clay Studio and meet and greet embroidery queen Jenny Hart (only on Saturday!).

Don’t forget to get to the show early as the first 250 visitors will get a chic Art Star Craft Bazaar tote stuffed with gifts like treats from Holly Hue Clothing, Jaime Zollars, Brainstorm Print & Design and Philly.Life.Craft, just to name a few.

See you there!

The 2009 Art Star Craft Bazaar

Penn’s Landing Great Plaza

Columbus Boulevard between Walnut Street and Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

www.artstarphilly.com

Saturday

11A.M.: Pairdown

12 P.M.: The Josh Olmstead Band

1 P.M.: The Documents

2 P.M.: Gildon Works

3 P.M.: Padre Pio

4 P.M.: Toy Soldiers

5 P.M.: Folklore

Sunday

12 P.M.: Perkasie

1 P.M.: Photon Band

2 P.M.: Like A Fox

3 P.M.: North Lawrence Midnight Singers

4 P.M.: The Mural & The Mint (The Mural & The Mint)

5 P.M.: Oh!Pears