Time less Sparkle Simon Pearce first began making and selling his understated glassware more than 30 years ago in an old mill that overhangs the Ottauquechee River in Quechee, Vermont. He chose the location, in part, because he could power his kilns and furnaces hydroelectrically, which was a more cost-effective energy source than what he could find in his native Ireland. Today, Pearce’s team of artisans continues to handcraft one-of-a-kind sculptures, one of the most beloved being his Vermont Evergreen trees. Individually, the timeless firs make a simple and elegant statement for the holidays; when clustered together, they present a splendid scene. The trees are crafted in four different sizes and are available in bubble or frosted versions. For added doses of seasonal style, the company even makes lifelike frosted polar bears, sculpted from leadfree crystal using Old World techniques. To create your own heirloom-worthy winter wonderland, visit neimanmarcus.com, where the glass works range in price from $130 to $500. Mighty Minipresso Whether you’re heading far off the PHOTO OF WREATH: MARION BRENNER FOR FLORA GRUBB GARDENS December 2014 /January 2015 7 beaten path or just to the office, Wacaco’s tiny new espresso maker ensures that you’ll never have to leave your caffeine behind again. Called Minipresso, the petite product is only 6.5 inches long, so it easily fits in a purse or backpack. It’s lightweight – a mere 0.8 of a pound –making it an appealing accompaniment for back-country hikes and camping. And unlike regular espresso machines, it does not require compressed air or electricity. The handheld device contains a piston, which moves up and down via pumping, producing the same amount of pressure as a traditional machine. The Minipresso comes with two different tank sizes, and it even contains a little cup. So all you really need to get your day going is hot water. To pre-order your Minipresso for $39, visit wacaco.com. Circle Mof Chee r ost people are so accustomed to seeing wreaths mounted to front doors during the holidays, they hardly pause to enjoy them. Now there’s one that will cause guests to stop and look twice. Fashioned from live plants, Flora Grubb’s succulent wreaths grow, bloom and change over time. The stunning decorations are low-maintenance, requiring only an occasional dunk to perk them up, a sporadic trim here and there and a periodic spritz of water to remove dust. The garlands can tolerate the shade of a front porch and flourish in bright spots. They can even be hung inside or used as a centerpiece for a few days at a time. The unique wreaths are available in a variety of styles featuring different succulents, and they range in diameter from 10 to 16 inches. But perhaps one of the best parts about the striking decorations is that they will live long into the New Year. To find a succulent wreath, visit floragrubb.com. n
South Bay Accent - Dec 2014/Jan 2015
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