Well, I’ve discovered the most fantastically beautiful little buy ever, that satisfies the need for more, more, more accessories. But unlike most of the decorative pieces out there, these are multi-functional and totally useable.

Glassybaby!

If a dog can have 10 green glassybaby, I want 10 green glassybaby.

Glassybaby ($40 each) are superheavy, unbreakable, one-of-a-kind blown-glass votive holders, that actually have many other uses. I have one I use as a tea light holder, but they can also be used for your favorite cocktail, to display flower buds, hold colored pencils or ice cream at a party.

Did I mention they come in 400+ colors? Some are sheer, some are opaque, some are two-toned. All are fabulous for mixing and matching, and they come with fabulous names like Peter Pan, Dijon, Jane’s Caramel and Lollypop.

If you had to pick one, which would you pick?

Good thing is, you don’t HAVE to pick just one.

The best part about Seattle-based Glassybaby is there is substance and philanthropy behind all that pretty colored glass. The creator of glassybaby is a three-time cancer survivor, and after burning pretty candles inspired her during some of her hardest times, she started the company to help inspire others. To date, she has donated nearly $500,000 from sales to charities dedicated to helping and healing cancer patients.

Buy, buy, buy! We all must. Glassybaby.com

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Presented by developers Merlone Geier Partners (MGP) and GLJ Partners, Stella made its debut today during a groundbreaking ceremony with special guests Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember, 11th District, Bill Rosendahl, and other local community and business leaders.

There was also an unveiling of a virtual tour of Stella and a presentation that wheeled into motion one of the project’s most anticipated amenities: the “Hub” bicycle kitchen where residents can clean, repair and store their bikes. Stella is centrally located within easy biking and walking distance to the marina, beaches, two multiplex movie theaters, three grocery stores, Villa Marina Marketplace with 70 specialty shops and restaurants and Jerry’s Famous Deli.

With its sophisticated modern design and condo-level amenities, Stella is set to re-define luxury apartment living in the classic coastal enclave and stand as a sustainable first for Marina Del Rey. Stella will be LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified by the U.S. Green Building Council for its incorporation of sustainable materials, healthier interior finishes and energy-efficient construction techniques; in compliance with the City of Los Angeles’ green building ordinance. It’s expected to achieve a LEED Silver certification, the third highest rating a green building can receive.

In addition, a pedestrian-friendly streetscape will include 15 new trees, supporting Mayor Villaraigosa’s “Million Trees Initiative,” a FedEx Kinko’s and a café/wine bar.

Stella’s project team includes architectural firm DesignARC and Arroyo Interior Design. Completion is targeted for fall of 2012.

“In addition to creating a new green high-density, mixed use community, Stella will create jobs and be an economic stimulus for the Del Rey and Venice neighborhoods,” said Jim Atkins, MGP managing director. About 300 to 400 construction jobs are expected over the next two years, plus 10 permanent jobs, not including retail.

Located at the gateway to Marina Del Rey, just a few blocks from the marina, Stella will consist of two mid-rises with 244 luxury apartment homes above 9,000 square feet of retail space and two levels of parking. Twenty four units will be offered at below market rates, in compliance with L.A.’s affordable housing regulations.

“Stella will not only raise the bar of luxury apartment living in the region, but also energize and infuse new life into the surrounding neighborhood,” continued Atkins.

Averaging approximately 975 square feet, the apartments will feature refined finishes, sleek modern appliances and exceptional high-end amenities akin to a condominium, creating an engaging resort-like environment. Planned amenities will include a saltwater pool retreat and sun deck; sand beach with five private cabanas; residential outdoor dining rooms and barbeque area, fire pits and lounge; 5th floor “Sky Lounge” indoor/outdoor living room with views of the marina; community/rec room with event kitchen, pool table, poker table, plasma TVs, surfboard storage room; modern gym and fitness studio; spa with two treatment rooms and yoga room; Cyber Café and business center; theater/screening room and the “Hub” bicycle repair, cleaning and storage area;.

For more information on Stella visit http://www.gljpartners.com/about-california-green-builders/stella-marina-del-rey or http://www.merlonegeier.com/pdfs/VillaMarina.pdf.

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“Freddie is like a fabulous character out of Proust. The mysterious cult of Frederic Malle draws followers from the grooviest and most sophisticated nooks and crannies of art, movies and fashion. With the introduction of the home collection Frederic is taking his subtle, intoxicating magic to a wider audience,” said Simon Doonan, Barneys New York’s creative director.

The collection is comprised of nine scents many of which were developed using headspace technology largely based on the work of the late Dr. Braja Mookherjee, a scientist formerly with International Flavors and Fragrances. Frederic Malle invited perfumers Carlos Benaim, a close colleague of Dr. Mookherjee, and Sophia Grosman, to work on scent development. Additionally, Dominique Ropion, a long-time collaborator of Frederic Malle at Editions de Parfums, was also very active in the project.

The fragrances are as complex and differentiated as the designers themselves. Coffee Society, seeks to recreate that ephemeral odor of the living room after the end of a Parisian dinner while Russian Nights, was designed to embody the suave warmth of long nights in Russia. Saint des Saints evokes the mystique of Indian temples. For details on each candle in the Frederic Malle collection, please visit www.Barneys.com.

The candles, which range in price from $80-$140, come in hand-blown glass jars in signature Editions de Parfums Frederic Malle red, but with no logo or label. Thus, the graceful design can work unobtrusively with any decor. The composition of the wax for each scent was specifically formulated to maximize fragrance and diffusion.

Meet Frederic Malle at the following Barneys New York flagship stores:

* Las Vegas – Wednesday, September 29, 4:30-6:30 PM
* Scottsdale – Friday, October 1, 6-8 PM
* Beverly Hills – Saturday, October 2, 4-6 PM
* Chicago – Wednesday, October 6, 5-7 PM
* New York – Friday, October 8, 5-7 PM

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“We are excited to be working with the iconic Vivienne Westwood brand to design and produce what will be a stunning watch collection,” said Richard Tibber, Managing Director of Zeon Limited.

Carlo D’Amario, Managing Director of Vivienne Westwood, echoed Tibbers’ enthusiasm for the new agreement. “It is good that we have signed a license with Zeon to create a collection of ladies and men’s Vivienne Westwood watches,” he said. “Westwood is incredibly proud of her English heritage so we are pleased to be partnering with an English company. “

The watch collection consisting of a range of ladies and men’s watches retailing between 100 to 500 GBP will be available in stores from fall 2011. Vivienne Westwood watches will be offered initially through select, high-end UK department and specialty stores, before moving into similar retail outlets across Europe, the USA and Asia.

# # #

About Vivienne Westwood

Vivienne Westwood began designing in 1971 and has been attributed to redefining street culture such as Punk and New Romantics. As the first British designer to show in Paris since Mary Quant, Westwood also led a new direction in fashion when she adapted historical costumes, traditional Savile Row tailoring techniques and British fabrics and made them modern.

The iconic orb logo represents this, a symbol of taking tradition into the future. Westwood is a two time winner of the prestigious title of British designer of the year and in 2007, she was awarded the Outstanding Achievement in Fashion at the British Fashion Awards in London.

Her contributions to fashion have also been recognised nationally, receiving the Order of the British Empire in 1992 and the appointment of Dame Commander of the British Empire by Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth the Second in 2006.  Westwood’s works have been exhibited throughout the world when the V&A museum hosted a retrospective to celebrate her 34 years in fashion – the largest exhibition ever devoted to a living British fashion designer, which toured for over 4 years.

Today, the Vivienne Westwood brand is distributed internationally offering 4 clothing ranges – Gold Label, Red Label, Anglomania and MAN plus seasonal accessories, jewellery, bags, eyewear and footwear collections. Vivienne Westwood today continues to show in Paris, Milan and London.  She uses the medium of her shows to talk about culture and politics, more specifically about the urgent need to act against climate change. While still completely independent, her business continues to grow with boutiques in China and Los Angeles set to open next year. Vivienne Westwood is now recognized as a global brand and Westwood herself as one of the most influential fashion designers in the world today.  For further information, please visit www.viviennewestwood.com

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“Fireplaces for this fall and winter are about location and sleek linear designs. The technology is so advanced now that fireplaces can be installed with ease in more non-traditional rooms in the house,” said David Coulson with Napoleon Fireplaces & Grills. “Fireplaces are great for the living room or den, but with today’s technology there is nothing stopping you from putting them in your bedroom or even bathroom.”

The newest release for Napoleon is the GD36MN Manhattan Direct Vent Gas Fireplace. This clean looking design has more in common with a High Definition television than a traditional fireplace. With its clear glass front, stylish metal frame and the ability to place it at eye level on a wall, the fireplace will compliment elegant and contemporary styles in any room. Complete with an optional remote control, this fireplace is truly the HD experience.

“The overall trend for this year’s fireplaces are long and linear in black and stainless finishes. Cast iron and copper are popular in fireplaces featuring traditional log sets,” added Coulson.

Incorporating many of the new trends for this season is the Tureen GD82-TDirect Vent Fireplace. This fireplace’s most distinctive feature is the single flame that is framed in a tall, chrome panel case. The towering flame rises from a ceramic bowl and is a striking focal point for a modern style living room.

While many of the new trends focus on contemporary styles, Napoleon has not forgotten about the traditional fireplace lovers that may be looking to add to their home or replace an outdated model. The great thing about the latest designs is not only the ability to control them via remote, but also the ability to place them in any room in the house. This means you can light the fireplace from the comfort of your bed to keep the bedroom warm all through the night.

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“The Club at Cordillera is a crown jewel of the coveted Vail Valley – offering the utmost in luxurious amenities amidst secluded exclusivity,” stated Apple. “50 Spring Creek Place is one of the finest homes that has ever been built in the entire Vail Valley in my 30 year career. This auction format presents an unprecedented opportunity for any buyer interested in living the Vail lifestyle.”

“Over the past months I have been searching for alternative marketing efforts to ensure the sale of our home in order to re-allocate my capital to other investment opportunities. After researching various auction formats and firms, Concierge Auctions was a clear choice due to its expert team and sole focus on luxury homes,” stated seller David White. “I know I am taking a risk by selling Absolute; however, I weighed the decision with great thought. I am willing to risk allowing the buyers to identify the price in return for a guaranteed sale on September 30th.”

One of the Vail Valley’s most magnificent masterpieces and inspired by the romantic architectural style found in the remote mountain villages of Italy, 50 Spring Creek Place offers 11,026 square feet of living area with five bedrooms, seven and one-half bathrooms, and showcases soaring vaulted ceilings and integrated living spaces that seamlessly beckon the outdoors in. Overlooking Spring Creek with the Sawatch Mountain Range as its stunning backdrop, the home features custom finishes throughout, including reclaimed Java limestone, exquisite fixtures, handsome stone walls, rich wood and beam ceilings, stunning archways and gorgeous iron railings. With over 1,000 square feet of picturesque stone terraces, the outdoor living areas are unrivaled – ideal for intimate and large gatherings alike.

Vail offers mountain resort living at its finest, combining the grandeur of the most refined and renowned Alpine ski villages in the nation with the quaint charm of the American West, attracting daredevils, idealists and adventure seekers alike. From world-class skiing and golfing to internationally-acclaimed arts and cultural entertainment, to some of the most renowned shopping and dining in the nation, if not the world, Vail is a dynamic, vibrant, year-round community that inspires the mind, relaxes the body and entices the senses.

The Club at Cordillera is the recreational and social centerpiece of the most extraordinary private mountain community in North America and truly is life at its best. From the Vail Valley floor to Cordillera’s Summit, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Dave Pelz and Hale Irwin have crafted four extraordinary golf courses, each with an award-winning clubhouse and its own special ambience and culinary experience. Within its thousands of acres, Cordillera has private Eagle River fishing; an acclaimed spa; an indoor equestrian arena; miles of riding, hiking and Nordic ski trails; three tennis courts; five indoor and outdoor pools; four fitness facilities; a summer camp; and a clubhouse for children.

“We are pleased to be working in Vail, Colorado, one of the most beautiful and sought-after mountain destinations in the world, and particularly in renown Cordillera,” stated George Graham, CEO of Concierge Auctions. “Concierge Auctions only represents the most motivated sellers with the most premier properties in the most exclusive locations, and both this seller and property are ideal candidates. The Whites have chosen the truest form of auction – Absolute. On September 30th buyers will be able to bid with confidence, knowing that these are the most motivated sellers in the region, and will identify the property’s true value through live competition.”

The 50 Spring Creek Place auction will be held live, on-site at 11 a.m. MDT on Thursday, September 30. Attendance will be limited to registered bidders and their representatives. The property is available for preview daily from 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. A 3% commission is offered to the buyer’s broker. See Auction Terms and Conditions for full details. For more information, visit www.VailLuxuryAuction.com or call 866-818-6986.

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Traditional versus Contemporary: Just because this room is deemed “formal” does not automatically mean it must have a traditional setting. This room is a reflection of the tastes and styles of the homeowner, both in attitude and furnishings, and should be decorated to suit them.

If you tend towards contemporary looks you will gravitate towards statement pieces; one picture on the wall, for example, versus the eight you might find in a traditional interior. And, in traditional décor, shapes are more ornate and finishes are mellow – they look as if they have been aged at least a decade.

Floorcoverings: Luxurious decorations take precedence in the formal living room with the floor serving as the launching pad. For a more traditional feel, use Oriental rugs in common shades of red, orange, yellow and blue. For a more contemporary flare, rugs with geometric patterns or exotic animal prints such as black-and-white zebra stripes add a zesty element.

Window Treatments: Elegance at the window is key, particularly as this room typically resides at the front of the home, giving the first impression of the style of the rest of what’s inside. Luminette® Modern Draperies from Hunter Douglas feature beautiful woven fabrics that offer the look and function of traditional draperies, while making a consistent, clean, modern statement. Unlike traditional draperies, they also offer quick delivery, easy motorization options and the Hunter Douglas Lifetime Guarantee. They’re modern, but with a softness that can work in any design style.

Luminette Modern Draperies also offer a very popular Dual Panel design where the drapery is combined with sheer fabrics on one headrail. This allows for the best of both worlds, the rotating fabric vanes of the sheer providing light and privacy control and the drapery providing elegance.

Walls: Fill this area with decorative items such as gilded mirrors and wall sconces that make the eye wander around the room. Paint hues should be simple so they do not compete with the furnishings and other decorative elements. Colors such as taupe, beige or even a light gold work best. Again, for a more contemporary feel pare down the number of items.

Final Touches: Finish off the look with important accessories including lamps, antique clocks and decorative books, or even a whimsical chandelier. Remember quality over quantity, whatever your style, as you want the room to emit elegance, not clutter.

Using these tips, your living room will be fit to entertain in no time.

Hunter Douglas Inc. is a national sponsor of Habitat for Humanity, covering windows in every Habitat home built in the U.S. and Canada. Headquartered in Upper Saddle River N.J., the company is the leading manufacturer of custom window fashions in North America. For more information, visit www.hunterdouglas.com or call 1-800-274-2985.

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According to Prodigy International president Rodrigo Nino, the exclusive sales and marketing company for the property, “We are averaging ten closings per month, at this stage, with prices that have exceeded $3,200 per square foot. In June, we had more closings than any other high end project in downtown Manhattan. In this market, that is extremely encouraging and we will continue to build on our closings velocity through the Fall.” He added, “Our purchasers have chosen from a number of financing options with third party lenders.”

Among the first purchasers to close was Dr. Lenny Peters, a resident of North Carolina and owner and president of Peters Medical Research with offices in New York and North Carolina. Dr. Peters commented, “Trump SoHo is a completely unique and incredibly impressive property. As an owner, the outstanding success of the hotel is very gratifying.”

The property has captured the attention of international travelers and sophisticated New Yorkers alike who appreciate its downtown location and distinct architecture. As has been previously reported bookings at the hotel have greatly exceeded forecasted projections. “Trump SoHo has received excellent reviews on its architecture, design and service,” stated the hotel’s General Manager David Chase.

Bar d’Eau, the outside bar adjacent to the lushly landscaped, 6,000-square-foot Pool Deck will be the next amenity to open. The Spa at Trump®, an 11,000-square-foot, two floor, pampering experience with New York City’s only authentic luxury hammams, as well as expansive outdoor treatment areas and a state of the art fitness center, is also expected to open shortly. DiGuiseppe Architect was the interior architect for these two floors.

Trump SoHo has established a new paradigm of design bringing together the master works of Handel Architects, for the 46 story shimmering glass tower, and Rockwell Group, for the creation of the interior spaces. Its restaurant, Quattro Gastronomia Italiana, designed by Studio A, has become a popular downtown dining destination. The late-night cocktail lounge, Kastel, designed by Rockwell Group, is drawing an A-list celebrity clientele.

Located at 246 Spring Street, the corner of Varick and Spring Streets, Trump SoHo has 391 hotel condominiums. With just 12 rooms per floor, it has an intimate ambiance. Owners are able to use their fully-furnished and serviced studios and suites for up to 120 days each year. When not in use by owners, the suites are placed into an available rental management program providing a convenient ownership model that is particularly popular with international buyers. Trump SoHo is a joint venture among The Sapir Organization, Bayrock Group, L.L.C., and an affiliate of the Trump Organization.

Prodigy International, the exclusive sales and marketing company for Trump SoHo New York, has an onsite sales gallery in suite 3609. For more information or to schedule a private appointment, call (212) 965-0008 or visit www.trumpsoho.com.

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“The Swarovski fireplace is like no other fireplace on the market,” said David Coulson, National Advertising Manager with Napoleon Fireplaces & Grills. “This fireplace is evidence of Napoleon and Swarovski’s shared passion for cutting-edge technology, contemporary design and artistic craftsmanship,” he added.

The LHD50 Limited Swarovski Edition fireplace comes complete with a bed of authentic precision-cut Swarovski crystals. The light from the perfectly-polished crystals is reflected in every direction through Napoleon’s exclusive CRYSTALITES that light the Swarovski crystals from below.

The innovative and elegant new fireplace has an innovative ‘necklace’ tray design that keeps the crystals in perfect display arrangement. The Swarovski logo is finely etched into the fireplace glass and the unit comes with a certificate of authenticity. The Swarovski edition is available in a one-sided or two-sided unit, making it perfect for almost any room.

Napoleon’s LHD50 Swarovski edition is ideal for residential or commercial spaces that want to make a definite statement. This limited edition fireplace adds to an impressive lineup of Napoleon fireplaces already available to consumers, builders, designers and architects.

For additional information on Napoleon’s Limited Swarovski Edition fireplace, please visit: www.napoleonfireplaces.com .

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Two models and four floor plans range from more than 2,700 to nearly 3,300 square feet and are priced from the high $309,000s. All are single-level homes with 10-foot ceilings and offer up to four bedrooms and up to three baths.

“The Estates Collection at Blackstone is our premier line and represents the finest in luxury living,” said Andy Pedersen, regional director of marketing for K. Hovnanian Homes. He pointed out that the distinctively themed architecture, well-appointed interiors and expansive, open plans embody the feel of Blackstone and its surroundings.

“Each home was designed to offer flexibility for customers’ lifestyles, whether they’re looking for a home with formal and relaxed living areas, included offices, a four-car garage, additional bedrooms, a workshop or bonus room, or even a detached guest suite,” he added.

The Cobblestone model, with more than 2,700 square feet, incorporates formal living and dining rooms, a large kitchen, an expansive family room and a den that can be utilized comfortably as a home office. A private, retreat-like master suite is tucked away from the other bedrooms. A three-car split garage has the option of becoming a fifth bedroom or a detached guest suite.

A second model, the Rockledge, is the dramatic cornerstone of the collection. The largest of the floor plans (nearly 3,300 square feet), its distinctive features include a turret foyer (per elevation selected), island kitchen, master suite with a centered garden tub in the bath and private space that can be utilized as a studio or a workout room. A four-car tandem garage allows space for a workshop or the option of a bonus room or fifth bedroom.

Two additional floor plans include: the Hearthstone, with nearly 3,000 square feet, and the 3,067-square-foot Rockwood.

The Hearthstone is distinguished by an enormous family room that opens to the designer kitchen, privately located master suite and the option of a detached guest suite or fifth bedroom with third bath.

Highlighting the Rockwood plan are a tiled, walk-in shower in the master bath, an office with a separate entrance to a front courtyard and optional detached guest suite or fifth bedroom.

“The Estates Collection appeals to buyers looking for a country club atmosphere in a private, desert setting,” Pedersen explained. “Floor plans can accommodate customers looking to downsize or to increase space for their growing families.”

Among the grand opening incentives being offered for a limited time are $10,000 toward closing costs and $5,000 toward options and upgrades.

For more information about The Estates at Blackstone, call 928-252-2904 or 877-KHOV-NOW or visit www.khov.com. The sales office, located within Blackstone Country Club, is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

The 590-acre Blackstone community is located northwest of Lake Pleasant Parkway and Happy Valley Road in the Vistancia master plan. Family amenities include Arizona’s only golf course designed by the Colorado-based designer Jim Engh and a 30,000-square-foot Hacienda clubhouse with a main dining room and three private dining venues, an outdoor Cantina, a 3,000-square-foot fitness center, three pools and a tennis facility.

To reach Blackstone at Vistancia, turn west on Happy Valley Road from Lake Pleasant Parkway (99th Avenue); or west on Vistancia Parkway from Loop 303. Follow into the Vistancia community and turn right on Lone Mountain Road. Turn left at the Blackstone Country Club main gate.

For information about Blackstone, visit www.blackstonecountryclub.com.

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