Hello, FOX 5 News! & Shop Local for Holiday Gifts

Have you ever been on live TV? Until this past Friday, me neither!


I received word a few days ago that there was an opportunity to be one of several local entrepreneurs and artisans featured on our local FOX 5 News station ... and would I participate? (The answer: yes, of course!).

About 48 hours later, I was headed to downtown DC and gearing up to share Mira Jean Designs textiles and holiday gift ideas* (more on this, below!) with viewers, including our tea towels, available in any of our artisan textile designs.

 A peek at some of our watercolored fabric designs, now available in tea towels for the holiday and hostess gift season. 

My family joined me for the fun; we reported to the studio ahead of schedule and were directed to "The Green Room." There, we had the chance to meet fellow artisans and entrepreneurs who were all part of the Shop Local / Shop Made in Arlington segment.

It's a family affair! The Hougen crew on the set of FOX 5 News

Such a fun event! And what a wonderful group of fellow creatives and entrepreneurs in the room. Participants included Julie Jernigan of Jules' Jewels (fun fact: Julie and I first met almost 20 years ago; she was the cantor at our wedding! The Universe works in mysterious ways); Stas and Salim, creators and co-founders of Can You Solve Me Puzzles and Lori Stultz of Dennison Lane. We are all part of Arlington's new Made in Arlington pop up near Courthouse. (Local friends, check it out when you're doing your holiday shopping this season!).

The big surprise? About 10 minutes before we met newscast anchors Tony Perkins and Shawn Yancy (also an artist in her own right), we received word that the segment was going to be recorded "live." Suddenly our convivial room got very quiet! Lol.

The highlight for my son? In addition to experiencing being "on set" during a live telecast, he had the opportunity to hang with the Can You Solve Me puzzle creators Stas and Salim. If you don't know these guys and their puzzles, know this: their products are a must buy!! I first met them about a year ago, at Arlington's premier Made in Arlington pop up. I was immediately hooked on their puzzles.

My son (far right) on Cloud 9 with Chief Strategist Salim Khene (far left) and Founder Stas Casa (middle) of Can You Solve Me Puzzles.

Can You Solve Me puzzles are available for all skill levels (beginner | intermediate | advanced). Last year, we bought a few (a bargain at only $5 ea ... the perfect stocking stuffer!) and all generations spent time around the family table trying to solve them. So... much... fun! (and no, they did not pay me to write this!!). Love these puzzles.

Fun on the set (this was *before* they told us we were going LIVE! gulp!)

Not only that, but Stas and Salim are true gentleman. Unbeknownst to me until later in the evening, they gave my son a few puzzles when I wasn't looking - AND they could not have been kinder and more generous after the segment, staying late to help everyone schlep out display tables and more. These guys are the best.

So as I gear up of for the holidays, what am I thankful for? Family, friends, home; the creativity and and generosity of people like Stas and Salim, and the opportunity to support fellow artisans and entrepreneurs as I look towards my holiday shopping list. Thank you, Arlington and FOX TV for the opportunity,

xo, Kate

p.s. Our Mira Jean holiday gifts include tea towels, available in any Mira Jean textile design. Simply order online or select your favorites and email us today to place your order! If we have it before Thanksgiving we can guarantee delivery before Christmas.

We are also offering Lavender sachets, stuffed with a long-lasting, high grade French blue lavender and hand sewn by yours truly. These aren't even online ... we are too busy!! But, they are at the new Made in Arlington Shop near Courthouse. Or, you can email us at Info@MiraJeanDesigns.com to place your order. ($8 ea or $2 for $15 + shipping ... while supplies last! Limited quantities).  Happy Holidays & Shop Locally!

Our Lavender Sachets in various designs, including Corgis from our new Pup Collection, created in collaboration with local artist & illustrator Emily Dere

We're at the DC Design House! Celebrating AMERICAN Made

Today was a day to remember. I had the honor of speaking on a panel discussion at the DC Design House (yes, THE DC Design House!). Pinch me.



Over the years, it's been tradition that my mother and I tour the DC Design House. When I launched Mira Jean Designs, I never dreamed that I would have the opportunity to speak on a panel discussion there ... AND with two well-established businesses whose work I greatly admire: Thos. Moser and Barry Remley of Salvations Architectural Furnishings.

Thos. Moser furniture is made to last many lifetimes. Salvations Architectural Furnishings' work lasts for decades as well. What do I love most about each of these companies? In addition to creating works of art and mastering their craft, they are operating their businesses with American Made principles in mind. They are leaving a legacy for their families and clients. They are employing local artisans, blacksmiths and carpenters and creating beautiful and timeless works that support our local economy.

Today was an honor. Thank you, Universe,

-Kate

p.s. If you haven't yet been to this year's DC Design House, go soon! It ends on October 29th. Here are a few pics of my favorite spaces in this grand home:

Caryn Cramer's Guest Bedroom ... this space had me at its Hallway! Hello, Gorgeous hand painted walls with its bold and bright colors.

The view from the bedroom, looking into the hallway. Love how the drapery panels frame the hand painted mural, like art in a jewel box.

Another view of the Guest Bedroom hallway ... such a work of art!

The Idealized Family Room by Home on Cameron:

The view as you enter the room ... love the kids' art on display (of course!). 

Hello, Yellow! China Seas Wallpaper and Fabric by @Quadrille Fabrics)

The fabulous Ladies' Retreat by the talented Marika Meyer. Check out those framed Hermes scarves ... gives a whole new and sophisticated meaning to the word 'repurpose:'

Photo courtesy of DC by Design

Congratulations to all DC Design House 2017 participants! And to the DC Design House Host Committee. Another year, another beautiful show house and memorable experience.

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Designer Show Houses & Fall Surprises

Happy Fall! It's been a whirlwind as usual - and with some wonderful new surprises:

Here in the Washington, DC area, selected interior designers are gearing up for the area's biggest annual Design Show House fundraiser: the DC Design House to benefit Children's National Health System. Now in its tenth year, this show house is always a must-see. New to the program in 2017 is a series of events, including panel discussions, and ... I was asked to be one of the panelists for their October 25th event! I am beyond honored. Click here for details. (Admission is included with each ticket purchase). 

Around the same time, I was also invited to join a group of fellow DC/MD/VA designers and Instagram lovers who were gathering at the beautiful home of Missy Walsh, aka Missy at Perch. Beautiful doesn't begin to describe her home! It is a show house all on its own. Below are a few photos of Missy's gorgeous property. You can also view more via here and via her Instagram feed - and read about it on her blog.

Have you been to the DC Design House yet? It opened five days ago and will close at month's end. Check it out! I'll share pics of a few of my favorite spaces soon. In the meantime, you can take a virtual "tour" here through these wonderful posts by freelance writer Jennifer Sergent, author of DC by Design, and fellow designer & entrepreneur Sarah Sarna. Enjoy! & Happy Fall,

xo,
Kate

Welcome, Instagram lovers! The view from Missy's front steps, looking down her private drive

The stunning kitchen with its beautiful trim, roman shade, and millwork galore

My favorite spot in the entire house? The pool house (that still counts, right?). Amazing! 

The view of the pool house from across the way

One of several sitting rooms throughout the home, each one inviting and warm. 

A close up of Ranunculuses on the coffee table ... I couldn't stop noticing
all of those bright colors and patterns in the petals! 

The sunroom ... love these botanicals! 

A sweet side table in the sunroom space

Another view from the sunroom, overlooking the garden: 

This house is no stranger to beautiful details. Check out this custom painted wallpaper by Billet Collins and inspired by pagodas. 

Finally, no detail is forgotten in this home: sweet sentiments on Missy's front hall foyer table ... 

... and a Mum for every guest. Thank you, Missy! Such a wonderful treat and special day.

(Photo courtesy of Missy @loveyourperch)

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Dog Days of Summer

Happy Dog Days of Summer! 

Did you know that August 26 is National Dog Day? In celebration, we dedicate this post to it and your favorite furry friend -- and encourage you to make a donation to your local animal shelter or pup rescue league today. (Our favorite is Lost Dog Rescue, the non-profit who fostered our second pup until she found her forever home with our family). 

Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to a fellow artist who shares my love of dogs: Emily Dere.

Emily and I first met via Amy Rutherford, owner of Red Barn Mercantile (and soon to open! new stationery store, Penny Post). Amy is one of those great individuals and connectors who reminds me of the Malcolm Gladwell book, "The Tipping Point". She loves sparking new ideas and helping creative people connect. Thank you, Amy!!

Upon meeting Emily, I learned more about her work - primarily black pen and ink illustrations - and started following her on Instagram. One day, I caught an Insta post of her dog drawings - and had an idea: how fun would it be to see Emily's pup drawings in color, on fabric?! I reached out to Emily and we began talking about ways to collaborate. The result? Our new collection of Pup textile designs.

Illustrations by Emily Dere

Recently, I asked Emily to share more on her work. I am thrilled to "introduce" you to her virtually and via this blog post (the fourth in my Collaboration series):

(And p.s. If you're in the MD/DC/VA area, keep an eye out for Emily and her products at Penny Post and Red Barn Mercantile where she works part-time, when she's not illustrating) 

Introduction: Tell us where you're from; your art background and when you started illustrating?

I’m from Alexandria VA; born & raised. I’ve been an artsy type my whole life and can’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawing or painting something. Always have been with a crayon or pen in hand from the very start. I’ve put it to use in different fields  - did my Bachelor's in theatre design and worked for several years in costumes & sets, took a minor swipe at interior design, and have more recently been to London to study illustration -- and have been focusing on that primarily, ever since.

Tell us a bit about your craft ... where and how do you typically make your art? Always black ink? Preferred type of paper? Is there a favorite place or space that really sparks your creativity?

I’m a pen & ink person. An art teacher early on took away all the erasers in class announcing “There are no mistakes in ART!” and I kind of rolled with that and took to the more permanent medium [of ink]. I second guess myself with pencil. With ink, you put it down, and there’s little room to say “well, let’s erase that bit”.  Gets rid of some of my hesitant tendencies. So, I like pens, and ink washes with brushes. Or watercolors - I love the effects you can get with translucent layers.  I love color, but I do find I primarily work in grey scale. As for paper, I lean towards cheap.  There are occasions for a nice cold press watercolor paper to really soak up the ink, but I like doodling on typing paper or bristol board. I find it helps my process if I’m not being precious with my materials.  

As for favorite places, I feel like I have my best creative spark moments in places that are most inconvenient for drawing - driving in the car, or in the shower, or that moment riiiiiiiight before I fall asleep.

Close ups of Emily's pen and ink drawings

Do you have a favorite subject to draw?

I’ve been really enjoying drawing spots in Old Town. I did a line of doors around Old Town, and tried to branch out and drew a little collection of Del Ray spots. I like trying to see new things in the places I’m used to driving or walking by without a second thought.

Do you have a favorite pup illustration?

Hands down, the little ugly pug that is sitting looking straight ahead. I was a dogwalker for ages, and she is my hilarious little buddy Ella. And the pugs are just so sweet with all of Kate’s playful motifs.

Pugs! from our new Pup collection, now available on pillows, wallpaper and more. 

Recently you've created some super cool totes with your illustrations ... do you have a favorite product you like to make?

Well thanks! I’m gonna stick with the teatowels! I always collect teatowels whenever I travel somewhere, so I like having created a line of them for folks to do the same. Practicality speaks to me :-)  But the pup designs are a great opportunity to see my work in a more colorful playful light.

Old Town Alexandria Tea Towels by Emily Dere

Tea Towels from our collaboration and new Pup Collection

What's been surprising / fun about the collaboration with Mira Jean on the new pup textile designs?

Creating the pup line has been a great chance to see my work transformed into something more colorful & playful, since most of my other projects lean towards simple black linework. It has also been a good opportunity to collaborate with and observe the working processes of a fellow local artist (something I should be doing more of!) as well as the opportunity to create a range, rather than a single solo illustration.

Do you have a pup of your own?

I don’t! I did dogwalk for ages, so I have had lots of favorite little (and bigger) buddies - some of whom I still get to see around town. I dote on my parents' beagle mix Toby - a trouble maker with the best butt wiggle when his tail wags him. I also live with an old lady Great Dane named Bella whose imposing size I tend to forget until she trods on my bare feet. Oof!

What would you love to see someone do with the fabrics?

I think they’d be a lot of fun as dogbeds or poufs for humans to lounge on, but I also think they could be a lot of fun in kids’ rooms whether as window treatments or bedding. Upholstered headboard anyone?

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Happy 4th! Red, White & Blue Colorways

Happy 4th, 2017!

I love this holiday. It always says “Summer!” with a capital S. One of my favorite Fourth of July memories is watching the fireworks on Martha’s Vineyard years ago. It was my first summer back in the U.S. after living overseas for a time and the fireworks did not disappoint. 

To celebrate this year’s Independence Day, I've rounded up a few of my favorite red, white and blue interiors and inspiration:

From fellow DC-based designer Marika Meyer, whose textile designs
are inspired by antiquities and places like Pompeii:

Picture found here

From one of my all time favorite textile designers, Kathryn Ireland, her festive red white and blues:

Kathryn's Diamond Batik in Red, picture found here ... 

her Kirkbean Aubergine (picture found here) ... 

... and her Tangier in Brilliant Blue (picture found here).

One of my favorite patriotic homes? This one, courtesy of Luxe (article and photo found here). 
Reminds me of that fourth on Martha's Vineyard. 

Finally, here's a little dose of our own red, white & blue: our Ginkgo Love design in new colorways ... Happy 4th!

xo, Kate

p.s. did you know all of our textiles can be custom colored? It’s true! If you see something you like, but wish it was in red, white and blue or another hue, let me know and we can make that happen for you. 

Summer Intern: Welcome, Allaira!

Welcome, Allaira!

It's that time of year again, where spring heads into summer and we are thrilled to welcome a fabulous new summer intern to Mira Jean Designs: Allaira Bartlett. 

Allaira first shared with me her passion for textiles about a year ago. Fast forward to February, when she reached out asking if she could be Mira Jean Designs' Summer 2017 Intern. The answer: Yes!

Allaira is a go-getter and I can't imagine a better fit for our Summer 2017 internship. She is a student at University of Iowa -- the state where many members of our family hail from (Go Hawks!) and my husband's alma mater. She, like me, loves coastal places and the water. She's studying communications and considering a career in textile design -- AND she's a marketer. (My favorite story of hers is when she showed up at U of Iowa's news station her first day on the job, there was a story breaking, they gave her a camera and said, "Go!" And she did -- and got the story. Pretty impressive).

But don't take it from me; "meet" her here for yourself: Welcome, Allaira!

Allaira on the campus grounds of the University of Iowa ... can you tell she loves pattern and color?

Tell us a little bit about yourself: where do you currently live, what are you studying?

My name is Allaira Bartlett and I am a junior studying art and journalism at the University of Iowa. Originally from Portland, Oregon, I spent my childhood between my parents' homes in Portland, South Carolina and Guam. Because of this, I have a major case of the travel bug and am always looking to experience new places and cultures, learning about their artwork along the way.

Other things to know about me: I'm an avid cafe-goer, bubble tea enthusiast, future Daily Iowan Films Producer, diary-keeper, budding scuba diver, and of course, an avid painter.

Why are you interested in interning for Mira Jean Designs?

As an artist and art major, the idea of being able to turn my artwork into a profitable career is highly appealing. And while this is not an easy path to take, watching Kate grow Mira Jean Designs into success, has made me confident that she will be able to teach me the skills I need  to know in order to pursue a successful creative career. I'm excited to learn about both the creative side of the process and ins-and-outs of running a small business, and believe that Mira Jean Designs is the perfect place to begin this professional journey.

What appeals to you about the textile design field?

I love the textile industry because it allows for tons of creativity in the workplace and the satisfaction of having a tangible, useful finished product. I have always had a passion for painting and think that to have the ability to make a living doing it in an industry such as this would be an absolute dream.

What do you love about design? Do you have any favorite interior spaces that have incorporated fabrics into the space? If so, tell us about it!

I love how design allows people to express themselves in practical ways. It's true that having a living space is a necessity of life, but how one chooses to decorate it is a direct expression of themselves and their values. One of my favorite spaces that shows this is the Biltmore House near Asheville, North Carolina. The space uses opulent fabrics throughout which showcases the wealth and tastes of the Vanderbilt family who lived there.

Favorite place?

The beach! Especially the one in Astoria, Oregon. There is nothing like burrowing your toes in the sand, listening to the sound of the waves and relaxing with a good book.

Allaira on vacation in Guam, soaking up the coastal blues of the Pacific Ocean 

A shot from Allaira's sorority photo shoot

Favorite brand?

Rifle Paper Company has beautifully designed stationary products and phone cases. For everything else, my go-to is always Target! (Local friends: shameless plug for one of our partners - you can find Rifle products at Red Barn Mercantile in Old Town, Alexandria -- and yes, they also carry our textiles). :-) 

How fun is this mug designed by Rifle and Co.?! (Available via Anthropologie)

Favorite color? Peacock blue 

Check out these colorful stairs! Talk about color inspiration...  (Source: via Pinterest & Real Simple Magazine)

... And this seating area? Wallpaper, upholstery, pattern & color ... Galore! (Source: Architectural Digest)

Goals for the year ahead? 

This year I will be heading the new Daily Iowan film team, creating both mini-documentaries and social media content. My goal is to grow this team, create quality work, and improve my leadership skills.

Favorite thing in your home?

Not things so much as moments, my favorite thing about home is sharing a cup of English Breakfast tea in our kitchen with my mom or watching saturday morning cartoons over breakfast with my little brother.

What makes a great business? 

A great business is one with a vision that both its employees and clients believe in. Its employees would look forward to getting to work in the morning and leave each day with a feeling of satisfaction in their work. Mira Jean Designs is a great business because I know how passionate Kate is about her products. From hand-crafting each design to keeping her products made in America — Kate has a bright vision for her company which shows in every aspect of her work.

What makes a great design?

Great design is something that invokes an emotional response. Whether it's bold or understated, good design stands out as something that grabs the viewer and holds their attention.

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In the Press! New Feature in Arlington Magazine

The other day I was in the check out line at Whole Foods, browsing the latest issue of Arlington Magazine ... and lo and behold, there was a feature on yours truly, Mira Jean Designs Pinch me!

Our feature article(!) in the latest Arlington Magazine HOMES issue

I was interviewed back in November by the talented writer and editor Adrienne Wichard-Edds, whom I have admired for some time for her great scouting and sourcing of all things artisan and local. (After all, it was Adrienne who profiled one of my favorite boutiques, covet; and Arlington's best home made play dough for kids, Happy Dough Lucky).

Am beyond thrilled to be in this latest issue -- and an issue all about one of my favorite things, no less: Homes!

Thank you, Adrienne & Arlington Magazine!

xo, Kate

p.s. Yes, that's a peek at our new Tunisia design colorway in yellow, getting ready to ship as part of a custom pillow order for a client in the midwest ... more on that and our custom colorways, coming soon!)

Historic Home + Fellow Entrepreneur Spotlight: Moley Evans

People (myself included!) often say it is a small world ... this blog feature is a true testament to this.

If you know me well, you know I absolutely *love* historic homes. Years ago, my mother in law invited me to tour a magnificent one: a turn of the century Antebellum farmhouse in Alcova Heights, Arlington, Virginia. Her good friend Alice lived in it and was a master gardener; I remember vividly the day Alice graciously gave us a tour of her beautiful home and its surroundings. It was a house and garden to remember. 

A house to remember: the front door of this historic grand home with its welcoming front porch, haint blue porch ceiling and yellow door. Photo courtesy of its current homeowner, Moley Evans.

Fast forward about fifteen years ... and I found myself back in the home's dining room with the new owner, Founder & Director of EverWonder Moley Evans, talking about fabrics for her newly remodeled kitchen. My friends, this is the Universe at work. 

The view from Moley's dining room table, looking into her beautiful new kitchen (pre- roman shades)

Moley is an amazing business owner and entrepreneur. A fellow mom of two, she launched an after school enrichment and summer camp program, EverWonder about ten years ago -- and it's been growing ever since. 

Moley was kind enough to sit down with me this winter and share her thoughts and advice for fellow women entrepreneurs, below are excerpts from our conversation. She also selected my watercolored Aquafern textile design for roman shades in her newly remodeled kitchen(!!). Check it out: 

Do as the romans do: Moley and I collaborated on custom roman shades for her new kitchen in our Aquafern watercolored textile design on linen & cotton canvas. 

I am honored to have some of my Mira Jean Designs textiles in this historic home -- a home that is such a thoughtful blend of old + new. Even the coffee table in Moley's family room honors the home's past: it was custom made, from an old tree that had to be taken down on the property:

The Evans' family's coffee table, custom made from an old tree formerly on the grounds. 

Thank you for following along (and p.s. if you're a fellow mom and entrepreneur, would love to hear your $.02 on running a business, too ... what advice would you offer? Do you have a 'to do' list when you're on vacation, too? Tell me!).

xo, Kate

A Conversation with Fellow Entrepreneur Moley Evans:

Tell us about your business - what is your role, and how did it start? 
I am the Founder & Director of EverWonder Camps. I taught for six years, and then when I had my second child started tutoring ... which in turn sparked wanting to launch my own after school enrichment programs. Today, EverWonder offers camps across Arlington and Northern Virginia.

What advice would you offer fellow business owners? 
You write a business plan and think it's one thing -- but don't be afraid to make changes and get advice from other people. Brainstorm with others! Don't be afraid to say, "I was wrong about that." Do stick up for yourself and your product. Most importantly, celebrate your successes. As women and moms, we often do a lot. Don't be afraid to ask for help - and know it's okay to say no.

It is also very important to give back to the community. This is a big part of what we do at EverWonder. We sponsor the Jennifer Bush Lawson Foundation's Annual 5K Run, donate to Doorways for Women and Families, and more.

What's the best thing about running your own business? 
I love love love being able to give people jobs! I also love mentoring employees, creating incentives for them that help them grow, and providing teachers with work when schools are out of session.  I also love that I have a viable business that I could hand down to my kids.

What was the biggest surprise in running your own business? 
How much work it takes! It's hard to stop working -- even when I'm on vacation. There's alway a 'to do' list.

Tell us more about your beautiful home. 
It was built in 1836. The house has a spiral staircase, windows everywhere, pocket doors and a screened in porch. Douglas Wallop and Violet Lucille Fletcher ("Lucy") lived in it, in the 1950s. He wrote "The Damn Yankees." She was a writer, too, used to throw parties and played the piano ... I love that she is a part of at the home's history.

What other updates have you made to the home? 
Paint, paint, paint! When we first moved in, rooms hadn't been painted in 25 years. We also turned a back porch that was added in the 70's into a mudroom. Upstairs, we kept the same window line to keep the integrity of the house.

To learn more about Moley Evans' EverWonder camp classes and programs and ways they give back to the community, visit their website at: everwondercamps.com

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Hello, Fall! & Partnering with ASID

Happy Early Fall! Summer is over and we are settling in to a new routine for my fourth and seventh graders. Mira already has our Fall "to do" list up on the kitchen chalk wall ... check it out! Looks like it's going to be a busy autumn. :-)



Work-wise, it's been busy announcing our new textile collection to interior designers across the country - and closer to home, presenting to interior designers affiliated with the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID).



At the encouragement of my SCORE business coaches, I joined ASID earlier this year as an Industry Partner. Thanks to my coach Ellen Brotman, this in turn led to last week's meeting ... such a great opportunity! Not only did I get to meet with a room full of professional, local interior designers, but also met fellow guest speaker Stacey Tranter of Twin Diamonds.

Stacey and her company Twin Diamonds' work is beautiful. They specialize in wallpapers and decorative painting. Stacey brought a few samples with her to the ASID meeting, check them out. I just love the natural textures, colors and artisan touch:

Two painted wallpaper samples, above, shared at the meeting. The textures and subtle colors are beautiful. 

Above: another wallpaper sample, painted and stenciled. Love the natural colors and textures of this one!

Twin Diamonds does custom stenciling, too. Check out this bathroom and its coastal colors:

Photo from Twin Diamonds' website

Stacey and I share a love of all things custom. If you have a color or design you want, just ask her ... chances are she and her team can create it for you.

Speaking of custom, during the meeting one of the designers shared a design dilemma: she spent a day at the DC Design Center, picking out fabrics for a client's new kitchen ... only to find that the repeat pattern they selected wouldn't accommodate what they were seeking, nor was it within their budget. The next step? The designer is bringing me to the client's home, to see the space and discuss potentially painting a custom textile design that works just for her. Will keep you posted! Hope your fall is off to a great start.

xo, Kate