Brentwood Kitchen Shopper

New Year, New Decor

2011-01-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

It is common to start moving things around in the beginning of a new year. Desires for change and transformation, gets the ball rolling for the ultimate redo, come Spring. Enjoy the article below from Buffalo News on trends for 2011 and how you can give your ideas life.

Fresh and fashionable home decor

By Susan Martin
HOME & STYLE EDITOR

January is the time when many people get the organizing bug. Once they get that out of their systems, it's time to think about freshening up the decor.

Much joy can come from seeing new colors, new patterns and new ideas for the home. There's nothing like a splash of fresh fabric or an eye-catching accent piece -- even a refurbished one -- to breathe new life into your living quarters. And a few familiar signs of spring -- bird or butterfly motifs on pillows, perhaps -- can always do wonders to beat the winter blues.
As for some trends, this is just a preview of things to come.

Furniture

For home furnishings, it's all about coming together. Media entertainment centers were a very hot item during the holidays, said Bob Caruso, managing partner of Calvin's Furniture in Clarence. Going along with this is growing interest in sectionals. Although sectionals never really went out, they're very popular again, Caruso said. It's as basic as this: "People want more family time," he said. They want to get together, kick back, watch movies on their big-screen TVs -- and they can do so comfortably by creating a sectional that works for them. Customers can pick an arm style, choose between loose- or attached-back styles, add a chaise and so on, Caruso said.

That same customization moves into the kitchen, where a table-and-chair set comes with a number of options including a selection of leg styles, finishes, etc., he said. Other trends he noted: silver and gray (including mirrors and mirrored accent pieces; silvery textured items such as Bombay chests, and -- still popular -- nickel hardware on espresso- or chocolate furniture finishes). People also are choosing bold pairings, such as transitional pieces mixed with Tuscan-inspired ones (a sleek white sofa paired with a Tuscan-style coffee table, Caruso said).

Color

You have to love the predictions. The word from Benjamin Moore paints: Purple reigns. "From deep smoky wine to wildly pumped-up fuchsia, purple promises to be a predominant color in home decor in 2011," the color pros pronounced. Shades of gray will continue to make themselves at home as well, including a subtle blue gray color called Smoke.

This from www.benjaminmoore.com: "The chameleon among colors, gray is a classic, refined neutral that works well with any color scheme. Depending on the shade, it can be cool and calming or, with a little bit of silver, energetic." And let's not forget about honeysuckle, a dynamic reddish pink Pantone named as its color fo the year. For home interiors, it goes like this: "Honeysuckle is upbeat and dynamic when used on large areas like the entry area of a house or an apartment. It is an appetite and conversation stimulant when used on the dining room walls. In the kitchen, it adds a fun touch on the table in place mats and other linens (patterned or solid), colored glassware, candles and small appliances," according to Pantone.

Patterns

Be bold. Strong graphics and fearless florals done up in fresh colors already are out there -- especially as accents. Look for them on lamp shades, storage bins, area rugs and dinnerware -- and expect to see more in the coming months. Pier 1 is mad for roses. Pottery Barn's new pillow covers feature some mighty big butterflies. And the February issue of Martha Stewart Living shows classic damask "blown up to new proportions" on rugs, carpets and more. Patchwork is something else to watch for.

Wall covering

A word on walls? "People are definitely going toward more plain wallpapers -- more earth tones and natural-looking wallpapers, such as grass cloths, and eclectic looks such as alligator skin," said Jim Black, from the family-owned Eade's Wallpaper & Fabric in Olean (www.eadeswallpaper.com). Going this route enables one to easily change the look of a room by adding a few new accessories or accent piece without spending a lot of time or money. Wallpapers known as "embossed paintables" also are popular, Black said. "If you have a rough wall in an old house, you put on the wallpaper and let it dry and it covers all the bumps and imperfections," he said. Once it's dry you can paint it with your own paint -- or leave it white. These embossed paintables can mimic wainscotting (picture one in a rich color such as copper) or stucco, for example. They're popular for ceilings as well, with some resembling tin or swirly leaves.

Some ideas to consider in the new year? Perhaps.

But, first, about those messy closets ...

Coupon Alert

2010-02-08T10:23:00.001-08:00

Here are this week's finds...

Linen TableCloth

Coupon code: twitter50082010

20% off your order

Oriental Trading Company

Coupon code: VA1019751

20% off your entire order

Kohls

Coupon code: new1729

15% off through February 13, 2010

Beyond The Rack

Coupon code: Visit the store, no coupon needed

$10 off your first order, and every time a friend you referred, makes a purchase.

In the spirit of Valentine's Day.....

Frederick's of Hollywood

Coupon code: FACEBOOK

15% off your order through Valentine's Day

New Year, New Luck

2010-01-25T10:50:00.000-08:00

The last quarter of 2009 was a difficult time for my family and I. After gripping with the news of a loved one battling cancer, and slowly watching him wither away, we learned to deal with their passing in the first week of 2010.

While I am in mourning at this time, I am trying to focus on life and work, as these are the only ways that we can push ourselves to look forward. It is easy to immerse yourself in darkness but it is our responsibility to look up, and move forward, if not for ourselves, for our loved ones around us. Truly, the only healing to such pain, is with time.

For the holiday season, I had ordered a handful new aprons for the site and added some beautifully designed tea for one sets. They have been extremely popular and I'm looking forward to replenishing my inventory very soon.

I am offering $5 flat shipping on the following items for the week of January 25-31, 2010.

The year is still dealing with a very shaky economy, thus, let's start it with some special discounts. Enjoy and may you all have a wonderful 2010.

Gearing up for the holiday season

2009-09-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Too soon you may say? Well, I'm like a little child when it comes to Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. I believe it is the most beautiful time of the year, where everything seems perfect (people angrily pushing at Target to buy the hottest gifts), people are sweet (rambling on top of one another for sales) and, I don't know, that special spirit is in the air (last minute shopping stress). Awww, you gotta love the season to be jolly.

Well, I have to start looking around for new additions to Brentwood Kitchen to gear up for the holiday season. Although it's another 4 months away, if you have any special suggestions for gifts that I should offer on the site, I would very much welcome them.

And of course, they will always be below the retail value!

Something a little different, and yummy

2009-08-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

I may not be a food blogger. However, in the last few weeks, I have made the same new recipe about 3 times and I must say, it has become my new favorite dinner item.

I was at my parents' home on a regular Sunday, waiting for someone to get ready (it feels like eternity, waiting for either one of my siblings or parents to get ready to go anywhere), and watching the Food Network. I sometimes watch the Barefoot Contessa, although I think her food is not the healthiest, she prepares it with such elegance and passion, it's really a viewing pleasure.

She got my attention when she started using lime, avocado and big piece of tuna steak for her recipe. Three items, I love, love, love. After reluctantly waiting a week (different plans came up), the evening finally arrived where I would get to make it at home. I tweaked it a little bit of course, like every cook would, by adding a little more lime than recommended and not serving it on rolls (too heavy) but rather with tortillas.

I am sure you are going to love it.

Here's the recipe, I "borrowed" it from FoodNetwork.com:

Ingredients

Good olive oil
1 pound very fresh tuna steak, 1-inch thick
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 lime, zest grated
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (2 limes)
1/2 teaspoon wasabi powder
1 teaspoon soy sauce
5 dashes hot sauce (recommended: Tabasco)
1 firm, ripe Hass avocado, medium-diced
1/4 red onion, chopped
1 tablespoon minced scallion, white and green parts
1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
9 hot dog rolls, grilled or toasted
1 bunch baby arugula, washed and spun dry

Directions

Heat a charcoal grill with hot coals. Brush the grill with oil.

Brush both sides of the tuna with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Cook the tuna over the hot coals for about 2 1/2 minutes on each side. Remove to a plate. The tuna should be seared on the outside and raw inside. Allow to cool and cut into cubes.

(If you don't want to heat a grill, you can sear the tuna in a dry saute pan over high heat. Heat the pan for 2 minutes, add the tuna steaks and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side until seared on the outside and still raw inside.)

For the dressing, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil, the lime zest, lime juice, wasabi powder, soy sauce, hot sauce, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper in a small bowl. Toss the avocado in the dressing and then add the tuna, red onion, scallion, and sesame seeds. Line the rolls with arugula leaves, fill with the tuna mixture, and serve.

Handbag hooks --a place to hang your bag!

2009-08-14T17:01:00.000-07:00

I get very excited when I add new items to the store. In particular, the new handbag hooks designed by Luxe Link.

Picture it: You are out to lunch at a french cafe, find a great seat. The chairs are wick with a round back. Just comfortable enough and adding to the beautiful french bistro feel. But, where do you put your purse? You can't hang it on the chair, b/c it fall right off the rounded edges. Alas, you relent to parking your beautiful purse on the floor.

If you hate doing that as much as I do, then the handbag hooks are just the right thing for you. Just whoop out the handbag hook, hang your purse handles on the hook and attach the designer top to the table. And voila, problem solved.

I can tell you, there has not been a single time that I am out at a restaurant, with my purse hanging of my decorative handbag hook, and at least one person asks me about it.

My best friend bought it for me for my birthday. I must admit,when I first received it, I thought I would never use it. I put it on my large hobo, thinking it someday it may come in handy. The first time I used it, I became hooked. Now, if I do not have it with me (because my busy head forgets everything at some point), I hold my purse the entire time, instead of putting it down. I'm so used to not putting my purse on the floor anymore, that the mere thought of it, 'grosses' me out.

It's convenient, pretty, practical and every woman will use it.

I decided to carry a selection of these handbag hooks in my store (although it's not technically houseware related) because I love them so much. I hand picked the designs available and hope that you will enjoy them.

Needless to say, I'm offering them below retail value. Always a deal at Brentwood Kitchen.

Let me know how you like them. I look forward to your feedback.

A new 'tomato' look

2009-07-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

Phew! What seems to have taken forever, is no complete!

I have been working on making some structural changes to Brentwood Kitchen for a while now. I wanted to facilitate the shopper's experience, provide better images, ability to zoom in on a product image and decrease the checkout time. As I was drafting out plans for technical changes, I figured, why not go with a whole new look?

So after a lot of back and forth, I present to you the new 'tomato' look! Brentwood Kitchen in all its red glory is here to present a much better shopping experience. Take a browse and let me know what you think! I love to hear your feedback.

To celebrate the new 'tomato'--I'm offering a 10% discount on your next order during the month of July! Just enter the coupon code TOMATO at checkout.

The Housewarming Present-Part I

2009-06-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

I've been a little invisible lately. Just a little. What can I say, life is unexpected and sometimes you are just blown away with the wind. My blog got neglected, but I have vowed a regular schedule of new blog posts with new deals, coupons and updates on Brentwood Kitchen.

Reality is, with the economy continuing the plummet, we all need more deals and are all shopping less. Personally, I'm coupon searching more than ever before and definitely shopping less. But the inevitable housewarming party gifts still drive me to shop, yet more carefully and mostly online.

I always try to personalize my gifts a little bit and depending on my relationship with the individual I can determine what the best gift would be. What do you suggest is the best housewarming gift?

Below is a list of suggestions;

A casual friend;

Beautiful glass bowl, which is 8 inches in diameter. The price is only $4.29! I found this product through Nextag.com. The price is so low for this beautiful piece, you can add a few floating candles to decorate the gift.

A trendy friend;

Colors, colors, colors! French Bull accessories are all about color splash and fun. Their Mosaic Salad Servers make any salad taste better, if you ask me. Who would say not to salad served with something so fun looking? If you have friends who love color in everything, you have got to give these salad servers! Cost: $15. If you like, add a salad bowl to make it a set!

The tea lover;
Another colorful set-but one of my favorites. If this individual is young at heart, I recommend the solids tea set for 6-stylish and contemporary. The price is right at $24.99. A nice addition to this gift would be a variety of tea assortments. My friend recommends www.Harney.com --it can be a bit pricey, but apparently their teas are amazing.

The bachelor:

For men, anything alcohol related will work. Whether they are young and you bring Martini and shot glasses, or for older more refined gentlemen, wine glasses alongside a bottle of wine. You cannot go wrong. For under $20 you have a lot of choices in the department.

More to follow shortly......

A New Year, New Jessie Steele Aprons

2009-01-21T13:30:00.000-08:00

A new era has begun. With the ushering of a new President, we at Brentwood Kitchen decided to usher in some changes as well. We are currently working on updating our website (exciting!!) and of course, adding a whole lot of new products.

Jessie Steele Spring/Summer Collection 2009 is arriving in February! It is a very exciting time, and we have waited a long time. The new Jessie Steele aprons have been designed, and will arrive shortly! With more styles, more feminine touches, and more colors, this promises to be another season of chic cooking. If you pre-order your choice of Jessie Steele Spring Summer aprons by February 1, you will receive a 10% discount and priority shipping on your product. On all other Jessie Steele products you will be upgraded to priority shipping! I hightly recommend you take advantage of this offer! My Jessie Steele aprons are the most discounted on the web and you will receive your aprons before anyone else does!

Take a look at some of the new styles:

Bib Audrey Blue Poppy Fields -Spring/Summer 2009 (Pre-order through February 1 for just $25.17)

Bib Gigi Summer Lemons Apron -Spring/Summer 2009 (Pre-order through February 1 for $26.06)

The Bib Gigi apron has larger coverage with lots of feminine details. This new style is like the chef's & hostess aprons combined! The apron has a pocket, and an absorbent terry towel attached by the hip!

Bib Carmen Black with White Bias Apron ($27.92)

Half Ava Pink Paris Apron ($24.98)

And our best seller and always popular;

Jessie Steele Bip Josephine Cafe Toile Apron ($27.99)

Jessie Steele aprons are beautiful for the stylish chef and hostess. All Jessie Steel aprons are heirloom quality designer hostess aprons and constructed from a fine linen/cotton Blend. Ties at neck and wait for easy adjusting. Contrast bias-trimmed at edges with a flattering Drop-waist, and flouncy skirt. Exclusive Jessie Steele Designer Apron Collection.

Now, order some aprons and prepare for some chic cooking!

Are you ready for New Year's?

2008-12-26T18:12:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Happy Kwanzaa...and any other holidays you may be celebrating. I hope you have a had merry time with your family, friends and loved ones.

This time of year is very special to me, as I can always see smiles on people's faces and everyone seems so much friendlier. With Christmas 08 in the past, it is time to focus on the new year's festivities. In case you are going to throw your own celebrations this year, I wanted to recommend some must have's for that special night.....
Colorful foil hats, leis, throws, tiaras...a set of 42 items, perfect for a cozy new year's party of 10 people. For $14.99 you are set for your new year's party decorations!

Also, have you had a second to focus on your new year's resolutions? I stopped making new year's resolutions a few year's back, to be quite honest. I believe that we do not need to wait for January 1st to make a positive change in our lives, but every day is precious and we can start at any moment. I hope you will take today as an opportunity to make that positive change in your life. Happy New Year! And keep shopping!

BK's Holiday Guide

2008-12-05T13:52:00.000-08:00

What would a shopping blog be without a holiday guide? It's like fries without ketchup, or shopping without bargains! There are some things that I believe every host must have! This a list of 5 must have’s I recommend and love. So without further ado, I present to you the BK Holiday Guide:

1. A trendy dinnerware set. Hibiscus 20 Piece Dinnerware Set: A dinnerware set is a must have for every home. The trick is to have something cute and chic that you can use daily and to entertain. And of course, it doesn’t break the bank. My recommendation-the Hibiscus 20 piece dinnerware set by Wrapables. Set includes 4 of the following: dinner plate, salad plate, soup plate, tea cups and saucer, all served in a gift box for less than $100.

2. Chic attire for a host. Jesse Steel Josephine Café Toile Apron: I love Jessie Steele Aprons, but this one in particular is one of my favorites. The fun designs not only add life and vibrance to your kitchen activities, but you can buy a matching accessories for the ultimate trendy cook. Jessie Steele hostess aprons are made from fine cotton, this one has two round-edged waist pocked and the bow dresses it up to serve not only as a great cooking accessory, but also for chic entertaining. $26.99

3. A nice tea set to entertain with. Pink Swirls Coffee & Tea Set: Everyone who entertains, needs a tea set. Tea time is a traditional service, but we can vamp it up with a colorful design such as these Pretty in Pink Tea collection. My personal favorite these cups and saucers are hand wash recommended with cake frosting pink and black swirls printed on them and a silver trim. $32.99 Set of 6

4. Nice glassware to match your dinnerware, regardless of occasion. Stemless Wine Glasses $1.95 each. Some say it’s all about the wine, but these stemless wine glasses are my favorite new item because they are about everything. You can enjoy a nice glass of pinot in them, or your favorite lemonade. At that price, you can break them without feeling guilty and they are so chic and elegant, you can use them for every dinner party. Love’em! From Crate And Barrell.

5. A little bit of luxury-treat yourself. This last piece is in my opinion a luxury piece but a nice addition to any home, dinner or wine and cheese night. A nice swoon Carafe. Sensuous curves with a stylish trim will make this stand out at any table and at $26.95 an affordable gift to yourself.

Holiday Gifts Part I-Hannukah

2008-12-04T19:22:00.000-08:00

With the holidays right around the corner, it's time to offer deals and offers! I'm not sure how many out there have had a chance to already take care of their holiday shopping, but if you are still looking, I highly recommend my site Brentwood Kitchen, for cute tea sets, decorative candelabras and other elegant gifts at affordable prices! On BK, you can find gifts starting at $9.99!

With the holiday of Hannukah being just around the corner, this post will highlight two beautiful choices of Hannukah menorahs.

If you are looking for something more elegant and antique inspired, then the Decorative Silver Plated Chanukiah/Hannukah Menorah is right up your alley. It's silver plated and made of the highest quality to prevent tarnish. It's my personal favorite in the elegance department. Right now it's on sale for $51.08!

The second Hannukah menorah is more playful and fun. With a variety of vibrant colors, fruit displays and beautiful stars of david painted, this porcelain menorah makes the candle lighting process a joyful experience for the entire family. Price $55.75

Happy Hannukah everyone! Festive lighting to all

An Afternoon at the Getty Museum

2008-10-28T18:41:00.000-07:00

I have been living in Los Angeles for about 14 years now, and never had a chance to visit the Getty Museum. Last Sunday, my best friend I. and I took a spontaneous trip, after running a quick errand at Bed, Bath & Beyond, to the museum.

It was a perfect day for the Getty. The sun was sparkling at 75 degrees, there was a slight breeze, and the view of Los Angeles from the Getty was clear and beautiful. We strolled through the Impressionism section, glanced at 18th & 19th Century furniture, and eventually ended up at the colorful Getty Gardens. What a beautiful sight. I. has enjoyed photography since high school and was snapping away all afternoon.

I wanted to share these great pictures with you. Visit Color Moods Getty Afternoon

Stemless wine glasses, not just for wine

2008-10-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

I finally bought them! I am so excited to share my latest purchase with you. Since I moved out of my parents house last year, I have been shopping little by little for my home. Thankfully, my roommate had furniture, so I was spared a big expense. Now I can spend my last cent on houseware items. Yes, I realize I can walk into my family's warehouse and pick and choose all I need, but they don't carry everything! In particular, I am referring to my latest purchase; the newly popular stemless wine glasses. Crate & Barrel Stemless Wine Glasses $1.95 per glass. Eligible for free shipping.
Ok, maybe not that newly popular, since they have been on the market for a while. I have been watching them for a while and awaiting a price drop. The other day, I visited Crate & Barrel with my mom and my uncle. We were walking around the store, just browsing. Towards the end of our visit, we came across them: the perfectly shaped stemless wine glasses. There they were, in all their loveliness, delicate shape and perfectly molded to fit your palm for $1.95 a pop. I looked at my mom and she saw the excitement in my eyes. My mom is always telling me that I spend too much money. On Sunday, she knew this was a battle she would not win. However, for her to actually approve of the items is a big deal in itself. She actually motivated me to buy them! I knew that was a sign from higher powers.

Well, who can deny a mother's wish? I didn't waste a minute and grabbed a sales associate. 20 minutes later, I walked out of Crate & Barrell with a sweet memory and owner of these new versatile and delicate stemless wine glasses.

The glasses are meant for serving wine, however, they are so simple and beautiful, you can use them for any occasion. I think they are very versatile, and I am planning to use them for regular drinks as well. In fact I used them a few days later, for a small dinner gathering and they were perfect. Some guests enjoyed wine with them, others their Diet Coke.

There is a variety of styles and colors available for you to choose from. Take a look at the following:

Acrylic Stemless Beverage Glasses $2.95 each, Crate and Barrel Outlet

Stars Glass $2.95 each, Crate and Barrel Outlet

And I was so happy to finally own a perfect set of glassware for any occasion.

Tip: If you create a wedding registry, they will send you a 10% discount coupon towards your purchases.

Coupon Alert!

2008-10-15T02:42:00.000-07:00

I know I have been MIA for a while, but my vacation took a while longer than expected. Meanwhile I have collected some great stories and experiences and can't wait to share them with you. Just in time for the holiday season, I will be collecting some great deals and reviews.

I have finally added some Lalique pieces to my own website, for all your fans out there. Take a look. All Lalique products come with authenticity certification and are 40% below retail value. The Lalique Anemone flower is my personal favorite. Lalique has such a delicate and unique style to its figurines, that it's hard not to love them. Check them out on Brentwood Kitchen.
As always, if there is a particular store or product you are intersted in, let me know!

Let's just start this new beginning with some sweet deals:

COUPON ALERT:
Kitchen Collection Coupon $10 off any order of $50. Enter coupon code bb
Horchow is having an amazing 20% off the entire site sale, but it will expire on Wednesday 10/15 at midnight. Enter code 2Days. Try to combine it with this additional 10% off coupon. It might work. Code: newhome
Sur La Table is offering a 10% discount on All Clad items. Enter code 332004

I love L.A.

2008-06-15T13:11:00.000-07:00

It is almost ironic, that I left for New York with a blog about customer service, and all the things I love about LA, as it has never been as poignant before how much I prefer to live here. I had a wonderful time in New York. If you follow my Twitter updates (on the right side of the page), you will see a short summary of my moods and experiences, while I was there. It was busy, lively, people running around, shopping, making money and tourists all over the place encompassing the 13 million+ people that are on that tiny island on a daily basis.

But more than ever before, I encountered the NYC hospitality of rudeness. It didn't help, that New York was experiencing one of their worst heat waves and as an LA girl, I'm not used to 95 degrees plus 5000% humidity. So, I was required to spend most my time in stores to appreciate the air conditioners. Most store associates were rude, not helpful, or reluctant to be so, with the exception of one. However, the sales that were in progress made up for it. Of course I spent every penny I had. I am a professional shopper!

Most people believe, that whether you shop in LA or NYC, all stores are the same. Especially chain retail stores. But in reality, it's all about timing and selection. Bloomingdales, for example, in NYC is 4 times the size than their LA branches. So chances of you finding more selection in NYC, are 4 times as high.

During sale season, I have had more luck in New York at the following stores:

Macy's: Hands down, has one of the most amazing sales, but beware of the mob of people. It can get crowded and you will have to wait a long time for your requests, unless you snatch a sales associate.

Saks Fifth Avenue: Yes ladies, Saks Fifth Avenue has an amazing sale and offer extra incentives during sale season to sign up to be a card member. My sales associate, offered me an additional 43% off EVERYTHING on sale in the store (without any conditions), if I opened a card, and no tax if my items were shipped out of state. Of course, I obliged!

Finally, here is my personal piece of news for shopping. I met with a distributor and am proud to announce that I will start selling Lalique pieces at 35% and higher discounts on www.BrentwoodKitchen.com .

Coming soon: Adding Lenox and Villeroy and Boch to inventory. As of now, they are only available on special order.

Now back to fun and entertainment in NYC: In terms of restaurants, I must recommend "Buddakan". It's an Asian Fusion restaurant, decently priced with amazing food. It's actually the location of shooting for one of the "Sex In The City" movie scenes.

All in all, I must say, it was a nice trip. We had great food, went to great nightclubs and a beautiful rooftop bar. Plus, it was a girls trip-which comes with an extra high dose of laughter.

The Big Apple

2008-06-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

I'm taking off to city that never sleeps for a week! I love going to New York and it has become an annual tradition. I love the people, Central Park, and everything that differentiates it from Los Angeles, funny enough. Whenever I am there, I am jolted with energy. I cannot wait to share all my fun experiences and shopping finds.

I must admit, by the end of every trip to NYC, I realize the many reasons I love Los Angeles.

During my trip I won't be able to update my blog, but I will surely be shopping! I will be back on June 10th.

Customer Service is not history!

2008-06-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

On Memorial day, I decided to make Creme Brulee for my Sex in the City brunch! Basically my closest friends came over for lunch with a hot dish of gossip served on the side. I began preparing the creme brulee the night before, and everything went so well until the next day, as I was preparing the finishing touches, my blow torch dies! My Williams & Sonoma blow torch dies!!!!!

I have used it a handful of times before and was so baffled. On top of being surprised, I was so upset, that my creme brulee won't be complete. I mean, we all love the sugar crust on top. Regardless, I ended up having to put a strawberry garnish (my friend's idea to the rescue!) and serve them without the sugar crust.

I went to Williams and Sonoma to return the blow torch. As soon as I described my problem, the sales associate attempted to figure out the problem for the next 10 minutes. He then showed another associate the problem. They told me shortly after, that there seems to be a leak and that they would gladly replace it for me. They were so sweet about it! I had no receipt, no box and I didn't even have to ask them! They brought me a new, upgraded and more expensive blow torch, apologized for the inconvenience and I was on my way!

I have had so many negative experiences lately with customer service, that this just blew me away. It is so nice to know there is a store that appreciates the customer. With that, I would like to encourage all of you to go visit Williams & Sonoma this week-one of the few stores that still offer true customer service!

I was going to post a coupon, but the Williams & Sonoma's summer sale started last week!

A Chic Cook

2008-05-29T23:27:00.000-07:00

Face it cooks; we all like to look good when we are in the kitchen. There is something sexy about a woman who knows her way around the kitchen, and whips up a delicious meal. Be it for herself or her family but specially when she is entertaining.

In reality, cooking can be messy. Insert aprons. When I was growing up, my mom had many aprons, all colorful, but kind of ugly, quiet honestly speaking. And nowadays, when we entertain, who wants to wear something with plain cherries printed on vinyl? (YES VINYL!)

Insert Jessie Steele Aprons. My friend actually helped me stumble across this haute couture aprons. This mother-daughter team, decided to design aprons, reflectinga 40's and 50s era design and 'symbolizing the grace and beauty of a forgotton time'-as they so eloquently put it.

So how much are these aprons? They range from $39.95 to $29.99. Here are the best deals on my favorite selected designs:

Cafe Toile-This one is my favorite. So beautiful.

Brentwood Kitchen: $29.99 --Best deal
(Yes I have these in my inventory-I love them! My friend bought one, as soon as they arrived!)

Amazon: $32.99

Wrapables: $34.99

Brown & Pink Polka Dot-matching kids apron and pott mitt available

Cooking.com: $32.95

Brentwood Kitchen: $29.99

On my website, Brentwood Kitchen, also has the matching Children Brown & Pink apron, and pot mitt.

Plus gals, for all my blog readers, here's a special treat: a 10% off coupon. Just enter the keyword BkShopper at checkout!

"All aprons are made for the stylish chef and hostess. Heirloom quality Designer Hostess Apron constructed from a fine Linen/Cotton Blend. Ties at neck and wait for easy adjusting. Contrast Bias-trimmed at edges with a flattering Drop-Waist, and Flouncy Skirt. Exclusive Jessie Steele Designer Apron Collection. "

Enjoy!

Coupon Alert!

2008-05-25T13:30:00.000-07:00

I just found these discount coupons. Shop away!

Mikasa: 10% off $75 or more order when you use Visa card
Mikasa and Company Coupon Code : VISA080106
Expires: June 30

Linens N Things: 20% off single item
Linens N' Things Coupon Code : 265900000004
Expires: Dec. 31

Lenox: $10 off orders over $75 (link redirects to Lenox page, with code already embedded when you purchase)
Expires: May 26

Horchow: 10% off any order
Horchow Coupon Code : NEWMOVE
Expires: Dec.31

It's Magical

2008-05-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gents, may I propose, the magical trash can. Ta dah!

Deep down inside, we accept that trash cans are a faulty tool and have not been perfected. Step trash cans, break frequently, or are hard to maneuver after a while. Trash cans with swing lids, are messy as you have to hold the lid, while you are throwing trash in. And well, you cannot have one without a lid, because it is smelly, unhygienic, and if you have a pet-messy (again).

So imagine a trash can, that automatically opens as you are near it. Imagine a lid you don't have to hold open by either stepping on something, or manually holding it while you are throwing your trash away. Imagine throwing away trash to become a hygienic, bacteria free event.

Abra Kadabra: The Touchless Trash Can. Stainless steel, stylish design with infrared technology. When your hand reaches within 6 inches of the lid, the sensor commands the lid to open and it will remain open for the duration that you remain within those 6 inches. Once you move back, within 3-5 seconds, the lid automatically slowly closes.

There are buttons for manual operation (if you want to do it the boring way). It has an on/off button, for the infrared technology. This trash can makes throwing away trash, fun!

I read a variety of consumer reviews and they were all positive and described the item to be easy to use.

Now, let's talk $$$:

Target: $169.99 with free shipping, holds 18 gallons

Living Comforts: $79.00, holds 13 gallons

Best Brands Club; $69.99, *Special* holds 13 gallons

Enjoy!

Shop, Chop, Shop

2008-05-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

Cutting herbs is not my forte. I was frustratingly attempting to cut parsley to add to a ground turkey medley for dinner when I decided to either never cut anything again (!!!) or find an easier way to do it.

So, I ventured onto a few sites, looking for a solution. Nowadays there seems to be a gadget for every cutting need, and look at the fun toy I found: Rachael Ray’s Furi Froggy Mezzaluna.

It has two blades, rubber handle and a half moon shape for a quick cut. Just put the blades over the item you want to chop, and rock it back and forth! The rubberized grip, makes it non-slip, and easy to use. It is supposed to cut anything from herbs to chocolate and nuts. Ooooh, I’m loving it.

It definitely looks like genius. Now let’s see how genius the price is. I found a variety of prices from $50 at bigger retail stores to $19.99 at PriceGrabber.com (a shopping comparison network). The lowest priced options are;

1. Gold Violin $34.99 includes the froggy and a non-slip mat
2. PriceGrabber $ 18.99-$39.00 from different retailers, but all include froggy, cutting board and a non-slip mat (18.99 offered by Amazon)

$18.99 sounds like a good price to me! Let me know how you like it- I’m shop, chop, chopping away!

Welcome

2008-05-17T12:35:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my houseware shopper blog! I have decided to write about products that I find useful (and cute!) in the kitchen and my home. Not only ordinary tools, no! no! no!, but ones with pizzazz associated with them-cutting edge tools, at cutting edge discounts. (And did I mention cute!)

Why? Ever since I can remember, I have been fascinated with houseware products. When I was a little, my mom would take me to ‘Lorey’ (department store size version of Williams& Sonoma) to shop. Lorey is one of the finest stores in Frankfurt, for luxurious houseware needs, including everything from dinnerware to kitchen tools.

Yes, you read right, Frankfurt, as in Frankfurt, Germany. The Mecca of all stainless steel products (WMF knives!!!). So walking from store to store, would be a never ending delight. As she would shop for our household needs, I would run around the store and stare at their beautiful tableware, kitchen products and start building a registry in my mind -one that I would likely not purchase until years later. But the excitement continued with every visit. To this day, there are many moments etched in my mind, moments surrounded by crystal glasses, beautiful cookware, and designer dinnerware.

It must definitely also be genetic, as I grew up in a family filled with wholesale houseware distributors. Once you have those connections-how can you ever shop retail again?

Fast forward to today-a L.A. based college graduate and e-commerce professional-I am now starting to bring an old flame back to the present. The time arrived for me to shop from my fantasy registry, for my own home. Thus, I started looking for products to my heart’s delight. But it all came to a screeching halt when my bank account gave me a reality check!

So this blog here, is dedicated to all you lovers of beautiful houseware products but shop on a budget. I will post new products regularly (either from my site, or others) with great deals. And I hope you let me know when you find great deals too!If there is anything you have our eye on, let me know and I will put my deal talents to work. I look forward to hearing your thoughts about the products you use and deals you find.

Welcome to the Brentwood Kitchen Shopper!