Shop Talk : Illuminating thoughts
By Katryn Yerdon
Published: August 13, 2009
The most anticipated week of the year on the Island is coming next week, with Grand Illumination Night and fireworks in Oak Bluffs, and the Ag Fair in West Tisbury. It just seems right to take advantage of opportunities to dress up your own porch.
Sanctuary on Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs. Photo by Katryn YerdonIf you find yourself on Circuit Avenue, Oak Bluffs, swing by Phillips Hardware for your very own paper lanterns and shades. They are a sight to behold, with a brilliant array of color starting at just $7.99. They also have smaller look-alike string lanterns that plug in for a sparkling look.
Down the street from Phillips is Craft Works, a must-see, where they have the most amazing backyard displays containing wonderful metal work chairs and decorations. Want an elegant addition for your garden flowers? Try one of their hanging glass bud vases with a variety of vignettes fit for any décor ($24). For a little music get one of their metal designed wind chimes with a variety of sayings, such as "Family" or "Woof" (also $24). Then check out their various glass mobiles or driftwood and animal hangers with metal bells.
Step next door at Sanctuary for one of their dozens of molding signs, depicting various locations or feelings ($29).
If you're on Main Street in Vineyard Haven, visit one of my absolute favorite places, Rainy Day. They have battery-operated paper lanterns ($3.95), along with the more traditional, colorful paper shades ($8.95 or $10.95 for the electric version). If you are feeling nautical, try one of their Maritime Flags ($12.95) or a fish-shaped wind catcher ($9.95). If you prefer something different, get some of their colorful parasols and hang them from the porch ceiling. Rainy Day also has a variety of sea glass wind chimes, lighted stars, beaded hangings, wooden signs and even weather station devices (starting at $31). If you are someone who likes a lot of greenery on your porch, make sure to stop by Two Susans for some wonderful, decorative outdoor ceramics, my favorite being the fabulous colorful mushrooms on a stake.
I would be remiss if I did not mention Timeless Treasures's most outrageous and gorgeous black and white checker boarded charcoal grill with coordinated serving dishes and decorations.
Hopefully you are inspired, but if not, go to Grand Illumination next Wednesday, August 19, in the Oak Bluffs Campground to see firsthand how much fun a bright idea can be.
