Made in USA

With the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, we thought this would be a great time to feature some of the American-made products available here at The Picket Fence.  We are proud of our many "made in the USA" options and are constantly on the lookout for new lines to add to the mix.  Not only do we get to provide our customers with quality American products, but we also get to help support other American small businesses.  It's a win-win!  Here are some of our favorite items -

Many of our jewelry lines are handcrafted in the US.  These artisans use the finest materials to make unique pieces in a variety of styles.  We've had the opportunity to meet most of the designers in person and it's wonderful to be able to support such a talented group!

We love the beachy look of these frames - perfect for showing off your favorite family photos.  Available in a variety of sizes and colors, each frame is hand assembled in Florida.

Made from slow-burning soy wax poured into colorful glass containers, these candles from Skeem are available in many wonderful fragrances.  Once the candle is gone, the container can be reused - the large candles make great drinking glasses or vases, while the small jars would be great for desk supplies or change.

 

We carry several US-made baby lines that offer bibs, blankets and other baby/toddler necessities (we especially love the hooded towel sets!).  These wooden music boxes are all handmade in New York and are available in a variety of traditional lullabies. 

These pewter photograph stands are a customer favorite.  Made in Rhode Island, they are perfect for a desk or dorm room and are a great alternative to traditional picture frames.  Recipe stands and business card holders also available.

No list of our favorite American-made items is complete without Maruca!  We love their unique styles and fabrics, which are designed in-house with new introductions twice a year.  Each piece is hand sewn in their factory in Boulder, Colorado.

Of course, these are just a few of the American lines we carry.  Stop by soon to see all the US-made goodies throughout the store!

Temporary Hours

Just a brief post to let you know a change in our hours for next week.  Beginning Monday, June 27, our hours will be as follows -

Monday, June 27   10-6
Tuesday, June 28 - Thursday, June 30    Closed

Normal hours will resume on Friday, July 1.  We apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to seeing you soon!

Americana

School is out (finally!), the fireworks stands are up and temperatures are rising - it's almost time to celebrate Independence Day!  Here at The Picket Fence we're pulling out all our red, white and blue in preparation of all the upcoming Fourth of July festivities.  Just a few shots of our Americana table to put you in a patriotic mood...

Celebrate Dad

It's time to celebrate Dad!  Father's Day is June 19 and we've got the perfect gifts for every guy on your list.  Here are a few of our favorite Father's Day ideas -

Is your Dad a world traveler?  We have several travel books to choose from, including this great volume about our National Parks.  Give Dad a travel-themed notebook to record his adventures or keep a list of places to visit.

Looking for a unique gift for a wine lover?  You can't go wrong with a candle made from a recycled wine bottle.  Add some wine crackers (available in three flavors) for Dad to snack on while reading up on wine and spirits in one of our many bar books.

Does Dad love to read?  From history to trivia to helpful hints, we have a wide selection of books to choose from. 

Of course you can't go wrong with food!  Dad's sure to love some Virginia peanuts.  Or surprise him with some "cash" - chocolate mints wrapped like money!

Celebrating Dad's first Father's Day?  Filled with stories, games and other activities for Dad and baby to share, these books are especially perfect for new dads.  Of course, you can't forget about Grandpa!  There's a special version just for him as well.

Stop by soon to find the perfect gift for Dad.  And don't forget our complimentary gift-wrapping to help make gift-giving even easier!

Great Gifts for Grads

It's hard to believe the end of the school year is in sight - and that means graduation is right around the corner.  Looking for a special something to help commemorate the big day?  Here are some of our favorite grad gift ideas -

Picture frames are a great gift for grads and we've got several styles to choose from here at the store.  We especially love the handmade frames from a.i. paper for their unique and fun look.  Looking for something a little smaller?  Try one of our pewter photo stands.  Available in several designs, these photo stands are a great way to add pictures to a small space.

Give your graduate a helping-hand as they start out on their own.  These books are full of helpful hints and bits of advice that are sure to come in handy.

Jewelry is another great gift and makes a wonderful keepsake of their special day.  With several handmade jewelry lines to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect piece!

Encourage your grad to keep a record of this exciting time with one of our journals.  Choose from several formats (both guided and blank) and give them a gift they will love to look back on throughout the years.

Maybe your grad would love a stylish accessory to add to her wardrobe.  Maruca handbags and accessories come in many bright, fun patterns perfect for grads of all ages.  We've also just restocked our selection of lightweight scarves in several cheery patterns perfect for summer.

We'd love to help you find the perfect gift for this special day.  Stop by soon to check out all the possibilities!

Pretty Pillows

Looking for an easy and affordable way to update your decor?  Pillows are a great way to add color and pattern to a room.  Whatever your style, it's easy to find pillows to complement your look.  Use a couple to brighten up a neutral sofa or add one with interesting texture to a chair or bed.  Wherever you use them, pillows can change your whole look without having to do a total room makeover.  Take a look at these new arrivals -

Small Business Week

Did you know May 16-20 is National Small Business Week?  According to the US Small Business Administration, more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business.  These businesses perform a vital role in the well-being of both their local and national economies.  Being a small business ourselves, we understand the hard work and dedication that all small business owners put into making their business a success.  That is part of the reason why we love supporting other small businesses both here at the store and in our own lives.  Join us this week in supporting locally-owned small businesses in your area.  Instead of national chains, make a point to visit your favorite local businesses.  Eat local.  Shop local.  Not only will this help small businesses, but it will also make a positive impact on the community.  Interested in learning more about National Small Business Week?  Check it out here.