I wrote down everyone’s name that commented on last Friday’s Katie Armour Home post, closed my eyes and drew a winner from a milk glass bowl. The brass pineapple above goes to…Staley Mc! Congratulations Staley and thank you everyone for your sweet, encouraging and oh-so-very-helpful feedback! The shop is off to a great start and I’m scrambling to upload more inventory. Keep checking back as I’ll be adding things daily starting…now! XO
I am a huge (please note the bold, italic AND underline) fan of the work of today’s Plucky Pioneer and I have a feeling you probably are too! Breck Hostetter is the woman behind the brilliant work of Sesame Letterpress in Brooklyn, New York. Perhaps you’ve seen their beautiful creations for sale in John Derian’s shop or in magazines like Martha Stewart Living…? Breck founded the company with her husband, Matt Heindl, and together they’ve met great success designing and printing custom stationery, invitations and so much more. Breck is also the co-owner of Brooklyn Social Cards (yes, ladies, she’s a double Plucky Pioneer!) the maker of the chicest calling cards on earth. I am personally thankful to Breck because she printed the most beautiful custom stationary for John and me (an engagement gift from Miss Jane Warren) that I just adore! Jane also recently took a letterpress class taught by Breck and Matt at their studio and said it was AMAZING. How much fun would that be? I want to move back to New York just to sign up! Read on for words of wisdom from the lovely and oh-so-talented Breck Hostetter…
Five words used to describe yourself.
quirky, dedicated, sentimental, hard-working (I am counting this as 1 word), kind (I hope I am). [Above, Breck at work on a press in Sesame's Brooklyn studio.]
What inspires you creatively?
Victorian-era graphic design and book design, vintage wallpaper, fabric, children’s books, plants and animals…
How would you describe your personal design aesthetic?
Our letterpresses are circa 1880’s and I love using these presses to print work with vintage inspired elements in bright, contemporary colors. All of the prints we do, from invitations to business cards, greeting cards etc… have elements of this aesthetic. [Above, ridiculously cool letterpress zebra coasters currently available for purchase in Sesame's online shop.]
What propelled you to found your own company?
I have always made things to give or sell. For years, I did this on the side while working daylight hours at full time jobs. It was always my hope that one day I could eventually dedicate my full attention to my own business. I ran my print shop during the evenings and weekends for about 4 years before I finally calculated that I was working 41 hours at the studio and 40 at my regular job so I quickly quit the day job and became a full time printer.
Most glamourous part of owning your own company?
Hmmm. I’m not sure how glamorous owning my own company is on a day to basis but there are definitely some perks. One time I traded services for a really nice dress. I’d say that being able to meet and work with really interesting people is one of the best parts of my job. [Above, the Brooklyn studio.]
Least glamourous part of owning your own company?
Working all of the time, doing bookkeeping, juggling many deadlines, always trying to please custom clients and making sure there is enough work to support my staff.
Best business advice you’ve been given?
I’m constantly accepting advice. [Above, whimsical business cards printed by Breck.]
Creative businesswoman you admire?
I admire every businesswoman who juggles running a business, having a family and trying to be creative. I am constantly working at this balance and welcome tips from anyone else in the same boat!
What keeps you organized and on task?
My gmail account with lists and labels and calendar. There is no way I could run my business without this. [Above, very possibly the most beautiful wedding invitation I've ever seen---printed by Sesame.]
Moment you knew you’d “made it”?
I had a couple silly goals of printing projects for people I admired and having my goods in a couple stores I loved. When I was eventually given these opportunities I felt like I had made it. Really, anytime people tell me that they like my work, it feels validating. Right now I think that being able to take weekends or even just Sundays off and not turn on my computer would really mean I had made it.
Describe your typical work day…
Wake up and dress and feed my daughter. When the babysitter arrives, head to my studio. Stop on the way to buy a chocolate croissant and a coffee. Work with my assistant on printing projects. Leave in the afternoon to pick up my daughter from school. Play with her until she goes to bed. Then turn on my computer and tackle admin and design work in the evenings. [Above, a colorful ink palette at Sesame.]
Your dream project?
I’m lucky to feel like I do my dream projects regularly. These would be the ones I get to design and print for myself (without tight deadlines) or give to friends such as party invitations for my daughter and niece, wedding invitations for my sister, coasters for a friend’s surprise birthday party…
What goals do you have for your business in the future?
My dream would be to move the business to a town by the sea, open a small storefront and be able to take a break mid-day to go for a swim. I think this is more “my fantasy for my business in the future” but it is good to aim high. [Above, a vignette from Breck's desk.]
Advice to other budding creative entrepreneurs?
Do what you really love. Try to schedule time to see things and do things to cultivate your creative thinking. [Below, more cool coasters by Sesame. If only I were hip enough to live in Brooklyn...]
Be sure to check back tomorrow to see Breck’s Plucky Pioneer Cheat Sheet — her top picks for art, film, fashion and more! Until later… XO
It is with great excitement that I introduce to you my latest project, “Katie Armour Home.” My new online vintage shop is brimming with traditional-with-a-twist finds. As you all know I’m a big fan of flea markets, estate sales and antique shops. Well, over the past year or so I have amassed quite the collection and now I’d like to spread the love. In the “Katie Armour” Etsy shop you will everything from vintage brass figurines to Vera table linens. Every item caught my eye for one special reason or another. I buy what I love and I hope you love it too! I chose “Katie” because it’s what my darling, supportive family often calls me and “Armour” (soon to be my last name) because I couldn’t have done this without my partner in crime, John. Besides, did you know Kate Spade wasn’t yet “Spade” when she and her now hubby, Andy, launched their little handbag collection? Below is a selection of items featured in the shop. I take great care to include small styled vignettes to help you visualize. There are forty items currently listed, but I have twice that still waiting for their moment in the limelight. I’ll be adding items all weekend…we’re expecting up to 16 inches of snow!
UPDATE: People have asked about using images from the shop on their own blog—of course you may! Spread the Katie Armour Home love! I’m touched and overwhelmed by your support. I have the BEST blogging friends a girl could ask for! XO
To kick things off on the right foot I will be giving away one of my all time favorite finds, the brass pineapple below. As you know the pineapple is a symbol of hospitality and one of the most classic motifs found in the home. This pineapple opens up to store any number of trinkets—matches, jewelry, or perhaps some pretty paperclips for your desk. It’s handsome and weighty and I’ll be oh-so-pleased to send it off to a happy home. To enter simply link over to Katie Armour Home, decide your favorite item and leave a comment on this post telling me what it is! I’m desperate for your feedback—my goal is to fill the shop with all your favorite things. Oh and you don’t have to be a blogger to comment or enter—everyone’s eligible. Do drop me a line and tell me what you think! Have a wonderful wintery weekend my loves!
XOXO Katie : )
P.S. I’ll be drawing a name at random on Monday at 5:00pm EST to be our winner!
I thought this quote was appropriate today as I rush about tying up loose ends on my project. It will be up this afternoon. Until then… XOXO
(image found here)
I am loving this J.Crew model’s perfectly messy updo. I so wish I could french braid, but I’m a total klutz. Perhaps I just need more practice. Any french braiding tips? I’ve been growing out my bob these past few months and seriously need to master this look before spring rolls around.
P.S. Cute outfit, right?
I adore holidays because they give me an excuse to make wish lists! Valentine’s is no exception—I’m all about hearts and gushy love letters this time of year. Above, a few sweet little things I’m lusting after this Valentine’s season…
Clockwise from the top left: Necklace by Anthropologie, Journal by Matta, I Love Your Style by Amanda Brooks, Pearl Earrings by Viv & Ingrid, Gold Heart Ring by Catbird, Check Scarf by J.Crew, Leather Luggage Tag by Tiffany & Co., Monogrammed Travel Bags by Leontine Linens, Eau de Parfum by Chloe, Floral Heart Card by Rifle Design, Coin Purse by Kate Spade, Monogrammed Lucite Tray by IoMoi, Pop Art Pink Nail Vanish by Essie.
On the top of the list, but not pictured: a quiet night at home cuddled up with John, my soon-to-be hubby.
What’s on your Valentine’s wish list???
Tomorrow is the big day! I’ll be revealing my little side project and hosting my first ever giveaway. I’m so excited to share it with you. I’m a bit nervous, it’s really nothing HUGE, but simple and hopefully, sweet. Can’t wait to get your feedback! Love you all lots. Honest, you make my day(s). XO
P.S. Today’s quote is one of my all-time favorites. Oh Coco, how I love thee…
(lovely image by sssseahorse)
I’m having a bit of a fragrance dilemma and thought I should ask your opinion. I’ve always operated under the belief that a woman should have one signature fragrance and stick with it. Well, a few years ago I thought I found “the one” (Fracas by Robert Piguet) and ever since have called it my own. I adore Fracas, I really do, but lately I’ve been itching to try something new…you know, to mix things up a bit. I am particularly taken with Burberry Brit. It reminds me of young, hip London with its traces of almond, peony and vanilla and in these cold, rainy months it seems like the perfect fit. Would that be cheating? Do you rotate fragrances based on the season? What is your scent of choice?
(image by kristybee)
This red-headed stud muffin is my little brother, Joe. He’s pretty much phenomenal. I try not to blog too much about personal matters, but he has great neo-trad style so I figure it fits. Over the course of the next two weeks Joe’s auditioning for all the top musical theater programs in the country. That’s right he’s a triple threat — the kid can sing, act and dance. Some schools accept as few as five males which makes it like getting into Harvard…but harder. And it helps if you can tap. Yesterday, Joe got some very promising news. Congratulations love and thanks for making me the proudest big sis on the planet. You, my friend, have serious flair.
Next stop, Broadway!
The new Spring 2010 Kate Spade collection is absolute bananas. I’m quite certain I need that black and white polka dot cocktail number. Can you say perfection?
I hope I’m not too old for a coloring book because I can’t wait to doodle in the one above by Matta. The illustrations by artist Claudia Pearson are beautiful and elegant in their simplicity. I love a clean line drawing and would happily frame that Taj Mahal on my wall. The books themselves are printed locally in New York and hand bound with colorful yarn. Next up are plans for Mexican and Moroccan coloring books… What’s not to love?
Thank you Miss Jane for yet another fantastic cheat sheet and Miss Foster for sharing her favorites with us! This Martha Graham quotation makes my heart skip a beat. Until later… XO
