Bitters Co: Abaca Tree Products

This versatile, exotic species can be used to make lovely household wares.

Did you know that there is an edible species of banana grown specifically to make textiles? The fibers from leaves of the Abaca tree, native to the Philippine archipelago, may be woven on looms into a variety of home decor accessories. Considered one of Seattle’s most eclectic mercantile locations, Bitters Co. has imported these decorative treats from the island of Mindinao and now offers them to mainland dwellers for a very affordable price.

Continue reading →

Serafina: 20 Years Old And More Fun Than Ever

The famous Italian eatery is hosting a festive birthday bash — and everyone’s invited.

What: The owner and staff members of Serafina — as well as sister restaurant, Cicchetti — would like Seattleites to come party with them on Sunday, May 29. The day-long extravaganza will be reminiscent of the colorful street festivals that are common throughout Italy, complete with live music, flowing wine and chefs grilling sausage on the patio.

Continue reading →

Harnn: Beautifying And Protecting Your Skin

Get your outer layer ready for summer with these fine lotions and creams.

Not to jinx anything, but if the last week is any indicator — warm weather days are here at last! Your knee-jerk reaction might be to run outside wearing as little as possible to absorb all the natural elements, but your skin has been tucked away for months — a little pre-exposure treatment might be in order.

Continue reading →

Semigood: Committed To Mother Nature

Seattle’s Thom Jones explains the sustainable approach that defines his company.

Founded in 2002, A Semigood Company has earned a reputation as one of the finest, most conscientious furniture providers in Seattle. The company’s philosophy is simple: consumers deserve the best when it comes to home furnishings. For this reason, Semigood not only offers quality, handmade furniture but also guarantees that their pieces are manufactured under the most sustainable, eco-friendly conditions.

Continue reading →

Boxwood Designs: Going Wine

Reinventing the winery, after more than two decades in the design business.

When Joe Chauncey founded Boxwood Designs in 1989, the vision he had for his Portland venture was simple and specific: a design firm that delivered desirable aesthetics and sustainability in equal measure. Eventually, Chauncey crossed the Columbia to take part in Seattle’s blooming sustainable architecture market.

Continue reading →

Sexy Food: Penny De Los Santos

An on-line workshop that teaches how to photograph food — and so much more!

Four days and five showers later, I can’t get the campfire smell out of my hair. And I love it! Last weekend I had the honor of participating in a three-day, live streaming photography class taught by the inimitable Penny De Los Santos, senior contributing photographer at Saveur magazine. The course was put on by local company Creative Live and over 200,000 people tuned in.

Continue reading →