Ten in '10

The Scouts have come up with their list of ten must-haves for your home in 2010. 1. Wonderful Bedding- make your bed each and every day. Your mother was right. 2. Good lighting- not the Target kind.3. Always have olives on hand for Beer-tinis and Martinis.

4. Great smelling quality candles; no "Gla-de".5. Atleast one piece of heirloom furniture.6. Original art; it's worth the investment. Even better when you support local artists. 7. Good wine glasses. The bigger the better.8. Washable Linen! Slipcovers none-the-less!9. Vintage Silver serving pieces .10. Most important of all in a happy home- a sense of humor! See you in 2010! Lots of Love~ The Scouts

Happy Christmas from The Scouts

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Lots of Love from The Scouts~ Jean, Dana, Robin, & Debbie

The Studio will be closed December 24th through December 27th so that we may celebrate in the fullest with our friends and family. See you all on the 28th! Be sure and stop in the week between Christmas and New Years... you never know what the Scouts might have in store for you.

Great Hostess Gift Ideas

One of the nicest holiday hostess gifts you can give this season is a wonderfully fragrant candle. We carry four distinctive lines of candles that are beautifully packaged and scented.For wine lovers and candle lovers alike, Soy Vey candles are housed in recycled wine bottles. These one-of-a-kind hand poured 100% soy wax candles are clean and long burning.

Belle Fleur candles come to us from famed New York City florist Meredith Waga-Perez. She has brilliantly fused the art of floral design with the science of fragrance to come up with a candle that is luxury for the senses.

Delirium & Co. is a romantic and stylish home fragrance line that is inspired by idealistic periods in history. These rich fragrances will leave a lasting scent that will invoke moods and create memories. And for the more adventurous at heart, we have the thought provoking Jonathan Adler candles. Two gifts in one, once the candle has been enjoyed, the recipient is a proud owner of a piece of JA pottery. One stop by the Studio and your Holiday shopping will be almost done!

News flash: We just received more Cavallini & Co. decorative wrap to help make the holidays even more beautiful. The vintage bird print is especially gorgeous, and like all the themes, these sheets of high-quality paper are also suitable for framing. For the young at heart on your holiday list, use the French ABC paper. Its winsome and charming design will add a special touch to any present. We also have Cavallini notecards, file folders and calendars that are lovely gifts no matter what the season.

There's A New Sofa In Town...

Vintage Scout Interiors is now an official retailer of Lee Fine Furniture, which includes elegant yet environmentally friendly upholstered pieces. Lee Industries went green before it was the status quo. The company has a long track record of eco-friendly manufacturing and uses naturalLEE soy-based cushions, certified frames, and water-based stains. It also offers many organic and natural fabrics.

And while we love the go-green attitude of Lee Industries, we also wildly adore the quality and style of the furniture. The frames are traditional, yet updated ... this isn't your Grandmother's sofa. You'll want to be sure to look at the fabric and leather samples we have in the studio. Among our favorites are the washable linens and Sunbrella fabrics that are perfect for today's busy lifestyles. Stop by the Studio and let the Scouts help you select the perfect sofa, chair, ottoman, chaise or upholstered headboard. The possibilities are unlimited!

Magic Carpet Ride

Fun facts to know and tell- Karastan Carpets was founded in 1928 by Marshall Field, who sought to recreate beautiful, but expensive, hand-knotted Persian rugs for his stores. To this day, Karastan (still made in the United States) is one of the finest machine-made rugs or carpets you can buy.

Take this gorgeous traditional oriental rug; it would be the perfect base for almost any room. Couldn’t you see a pair of Barcelona chairs on it? Or how about a rolled arm chenille sofa? Chippendale dining chairs and table? Yep. In a master bedroom- platform bed or antique 4 post? We could go on and on.

We love this handmade rug by Ohio designer, Amy Butler. Wouldn't this brighten up your breakfast room or make your sun room just a little bit brighter? Help hide the dust bunnies in your daughter's room... these patterned rugs are up to the task.

A new rug is a great way to freshen up a room. Don’t be scared to place one on top of wall-to-wall carpet, especially if you have one of those oversized “great” rooms; it can help establish cozy seating areas. The Scouts have a large selection of rugs to order from. Stop by the studio, run your ideas by us, and we’ll help you select the perfect rug for your space.

Vintage Scout now has Kravet

We are so ridiculously excited about our new fabrics and trims from Kravet and Lee Jofa! You won't want to miss stopping by the studio to see what's new for your fall redecorating projects. The patterns. The hand. The colors. We could go on and on! Come by and see for yourself and let the Scouts help you update your home for the holidays.

Top photo: Kelly Wearstler for Lee Jofa

Middle photo: project board for the Nolita Collection

Bottom photo: Barclay Butera for Kravet

Take a seat

Just in the studio- this pair of gorgeous mid-century occasional chairs. We've updated them with a black finish and upholstered them in a contrasting, gently textured, fabric. We love the tapered shape of the legs. These chairs would be a statement where ever you might place them. Try them flanking your fireplace. Ironic, isn't it; that a piece of the past can update your future.

Somebody Bring Me A Mirror

Mirror, mirror on the wall, who has the most elegant looks of all? The Vintage Scout Studio, of course. We have a new shipment of mirrors that can accommodate a variety of spaces and attitudes.

The Rococo-inspired Patrizia mirror ($477) measures 34 inches by 77 inches. It could be hung horizontally over a sideboard in a dining room to create a dramatic dining experience. Or lean it vertically for a more modern edge.

The gilded sunburst style of the Hesperia mirror ($150) makes it a great accent piece for any wall. The mirror (28 inches in diameter) is perfect to hang in a hallway in order to check your hair or lipstick before heading out the door. And the price is right!

Many other mirrors are available in the studio including several vintage ones. If you don't see one that works in your space, let the Scouts guide you through our many sources to find the right mirror to brighten your interior with grace and originality.

Puccini would be proud

Scouts Jean and Dana were on hand for the Dayton Opera Guild's annual BRAVO! Champagne Brunch and Fashion Show this past Friday at Sinclair Community College's Ponitz Center. The Scouts had a small sampling of what's available in their studio to help support the Opera Guild and also give the attendees a glimpse of the glamour the Scouts can stage in any home. Among the items displayed are Le Jacquard Francais Tea Towels, Cucina Soaps, French Laundry Furniture & Fabrics, and Delirium Candles.

Cucina's In The House

CUCINA soaps, hand creams and kitchen products complement the art of cooking. From Canada to your kitchen, by way of Dayton, Cucina products by Fruits & Passion feature delicious aromas in an elegantly packaged line of purifying hand washes, kitchen sprays, cleaning products and lotions; specially designed for use in the kitchen. The Regenerative Hand Cream, for instance, is specially formulated with the healing properties of cold-pressed olive oil to moisturize and soothe hard-working hands and a delicate fragrance that will not interfere with food aromas. To keep the kitchen looking spotless and smelling superb, Cucina offers biodegradable cleaners in a tantalizing selection of fragrances, including Coriander & Olive Tree and Sanguinelli Orange & Fennel. Because Cucina products are beautifully packaged, they make wonderful hostess or housewarming gifts. Hurry in to the Vintage Scout Studio and see first-hand how Cucina will appeal to cooks and guests alike.

The Scouts say "Bravo!"

The Scouts will support the arts Friday, October 9th, as they showcase their wares and services during the Opera Guild of Dayton’s annual BRAVO! Champagne Brunch and Fashion Show. The fund-raiser, which begins at 10:30 a.m. with a social hour, will take place in the Ponitz Center at Sinclair Community College. The Scouts will be located in the Charity Earley Room to display and sell their wares, including Delirium candles, Le Jacquard Francais linen towels, French Laundry furniture and more. Stop by and see us and support this worthy cause.

A "Jazzy" Piece of Furniture

The Scouts visited the Garden District of New Orleans just weeks before the horrific force of Hurricane Katrina struck the area. They loved the city and its myriad of restaurants, antiques, boutiques, museums and friendly residents.

A set of cherry corner cabinets from the Coleman (of the Coleman camping gear) mansion was one of the Scouts’ purchases. The two early 20th century cabinets measure 9 1/2' tall and deserve a home that is worthy of their noble stature. The accompanying crown trim is included as well. They would be smashing in a dining room, kitchen, office, or even a bedroom suite. If you are interested in having an elegant remnant of The Big Easy in your home, contact the Scouts at 937.312.9461 or info@vintagescout.com

Lulu

The Scouts simply must share our love story about Lulu, the name we have given a great piece of original artwork now in the studio. Everyday, we have been wildly creating a backstory about the lovely lady. Is she a Moulin Rouge dancer? We have no idea! Stop by the studio and see what this enigmatic woman tells you. The oil painting is priced at $1650, and it would serve as a spectacular centerpiece to any room.

Merci Beaucoup!

The Scouts thank everyone who came out to our French Flea Market. We had spectacular weather and it is always fun to see some of our favorite clients and meet new ones!We had some really great items for the event. Love the vintage blue lamps and the wire urns would be great on a front porch all year round.

This hand painted cow got lots of lookers! I doubt he'll be in the studio long. He'd be great in any home... he has quite a modern feel to him. Customers also got a great deal on vintage transferware; it was 30% off for the day.

Jean & Robin served up quite a French themed feast throughout the day. We started the morning with croissants and jam, moving into bread and brie later in the day, and finishing up with a delicious tray of asparagus appetizers and what else... French wine!

Dana is usually behind the scenes, working hard to keep our books straight and generally keeping us all in line. Her laugh is contagious and she was a trooper on Saturday as she dealt with a water crisis at her house and still managed to run the store.

Once again, thank you all for a super fun and successful day! We're already looking forward to next year.

Registering outside the box

classic bride: Registering outside the box The Scouts are MORE than flattered to have been mentioned in one of the premier wedding blogs, Classic Bride. If you haven't checked out this stylish blog, make sure you surf the site; even if you've been married 20 years like some of us Scouts. We love it for design inspiration and fresh new perspectives on everything from using vintage milk glass to cute invitation ideas. Sarah, you are lovely to think of us! (and we love your new look)

Ooo La La!

New and vintage merchandise is arriving daily in anticipation of our upcoming French Flea Market this Saturday, the 19th. Nous aimons these Soy Vey Candles~ hand poured soy wax in authentic French wine bottles with scents to die for! At $22, they are already flying out the door.

The Countdown Is On

Une. Deux. Trois. The Scouts are busy preparing for Saturday, September 19th, which officially marks their Second Annual French Flea Market. Don't miss this spectacular event. The ideas for interiors and entertaining will flow with the creative zeal matched only perhaps by the energy of the Left Bank. And you won't want to miss Scout Robin's sneak peek of her pied a terre in Ohio; so join us this Saturday for brocante and baguettes!

A Sneak Peak at our Flea Market

Treasures are starting to arrive for our anniversary French Flea Market. We thought we'd give you a little something to whet your whistle while you wait for the 19th. The Flea Markets of France is a must-buy if you dream of perusing the Parisian streets in search of the perfect je ne sais quoi. Sandy Price even gives you insight on where to grab your baguette to munch while you shop.

Penny Drue Baird's Bringing Paris Home is a beautiful coffee table book that will guide you in incorporating all the flea market finds you bring home from France (or Vintage Scout) into your own interior.

Both these books are now available at the Studio along with several other inspiring titles. Don't miss Vintage Scout's 4th anniversaire celebration; a French Flea Market~ here at the Studio, 60 N. Main Street in Historic Centerville, Ohio; Saturday, September 19th beginning at 10am.

The Easiest Pet Ever

These ancient Chinese creatures are so classic, so traditional, yet SO fun and modern! Actually, a foo dog looks like a lion and they were commonly placed at entrances to temples, homes and businesses to chase away evil spirits. The pair consists of a male, playing with a ball symbolizing the earth, and a female playing with a cub.

We love them here in this bright blue, but we've seen them in many different glazes. Use them as bookends or pair them on a sideboard like you might Staffordshire dogs.

Let us order you a pair of lamps for your bedside tables, like these Barbara Cosgrove beauties. Interested in something antique? Ebay even has some that are centuries old. So have some fun, welcome good chi to your home as well as a little Chinese tradition... get yourself a carefree pet; a pair of foo dogs.

Labor Day

The Scouts will be taking Monday off to enjoy the last unofficial weekend of the summer. The Studio will reopen as usual on Tuesday morning at 10am.

A fun drink for you to try~ Lavender Lemonade

We're getting invitations out for our upcoming French Flea Market on September 19th, and by coincidence this morning, as I was reading one of my favorite blogs, Design Sponge, here was this yummy drink recipe from Alyssa and Ryan. So I'll pass it along to you... make a pitcher this holiday weekend and dream of the French countryside. AND mark your calendar to celebrate our 4th anniversary with us at the Studio. INGREDIENTS: By the Glass: 1.5oz Vodka (Ciroc seems appropriate) 1.5oz Lillet Blanc 1oz Lavender Syrup (recipe below) 1oz Lemon Juice 2oz Chilled Soda Water French Lavender Flower for Garnish

or By the Pitcher (makes 4 glasses): 3/4 Cups Vodka 3/4 Cups Lillet Blanc 1/2 Cup Lavender Syrup 1/2 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice 1/4 Cup Chilled Soda Water for each glass French Lavender Flower for Garnish

Methodology: Lavender Syrup: Add equal parts sugar and water to a medium saucepan and bring to boil. Add fresh organic French lavender to taste (or 1/2 cup dried food grade lavender for every 4 cups water/4 cups sugar) and boil for one minute over medium/high heat. Remove from heat and let steep for an hour.

Drink: Mix first four ingredients with spoon, pour over ice, add chilled soda water and garnish with lavender flower (or lemon wedges if you can’t find fresh organic lavender).

Back to School

It's that time of year... the air starts to get cool, and Target's got aisles of colorful organizing things everywhere you look. It can only mean one thing- back to school! We thought we might share with you some of our favorite desks. Who wouldn't love studying if you had one of these? At least that's the concept, right?

Love this architect style desk. We would be shamed if we didn't mention this fabulous Williams-Sonoma Home desk!

Left: Super cool glass and metal desk. Great clean lines; you could even use this in a living room. Right: Majorly chic and affordable faux shagreen writing desk.

Of course you need something to sit at whilst studying. This Ikea stool does the trick.

Hot Hot Hot! That's all we need to say about this green lacquer desk.