Smoking Lily

bye bye blogspot!

2011-09-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

sayonara!

Holy Shipdisturber! A brand new website!

2011-08-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

This Thursday, September 1st, we are launching a new website. I'm kind of scared and really excited.

It will be a brand new look for Smoking Lily, thanks to Natalie of Apartment 527. She is the same person responsible for both our previous websites. We hope you like it.

Our web lady extraordinaire, Emira, has updated the technology. The Smoking Lily site will now be accessible on tablets and smart phones. It will be much easier for you, our customers, to navigate throughout the site. There are more catagories for us to play with. For example, Smoking Lily's kids wear is no longer an "accessory" and we can break up the women's clothing into seperate categories. It will be much easier for us to put our prints up on the site, so we will actually try update that page from time to time.

Another huge change....Our blog is moving over to the new website. All in one!

Some things will stay the same. We have decided that we would like to continue the personal touch, so we will still be phoning and sending emails to our mail order shoppers to complete their orders. We love chatting with you.

Glenda has had a lot of late nights processing photos she took for the new site. We have posted a few on the old site, but the new site has them all. She did a fantastic job. Glenda and our long-standing model Dianna took a few road trips to shoot on location to get some good snaps for you.

We are excited to launch our new website and hope that you will enjoy it. We ask that you be patient with us as we transition and become familiar with the new site. As always, we will be happy to answer any questions you have via phone or email.

Love,

Smoking Lily

Victoria Shops: Johnson Street Fest

2011-08-31T12:59:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time last Saturday at Johnson St fest, I have to share a few photos. If you missed it this year, mark it on your calendars for next year - discounts at smoking lily, cotton candy and tiny donuts! Could you wish for more on a Saturday afternoon?? Oh and all the money raised for the event went towards 'Make a Wish' foundation. Great event- great cause.

Our Guidance Booth

Our past models stopped by for a short visit.

Joanne and Nicole sumo wrestling!!

Rachael filled in for Renee for a bit.

A few spots left!

2011-08-30T17:47:00.000-07:00

Hey Victoria Peeps! We have another screen printing class starting next Tuesday night and there are a couple spots left. Sign up at the Johnson street wee shop to have a super fun time with Trish and Rachael for 3 Tuesdays... When we are finish you will take home your own screen and know how to print your own tee's and things. Great for making your family Christmas gifts this year!

Vancouver Update: Battling the Gloom With Silliness

2011-08-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

The last week has a seen a lot of unwelcome news: death, hurricanes, flooding....Not that there hasn't been good news, too, I'm just feeling that some recent sad events combined with the less than August-like weather the past couple of days has put a bit of a damper on the fleeting effervescence of an already short summer this year. Booo!

In the spirit of "Battling Possible Gloom With Absolute Silliness!!," I thought I'd post some, well, silly videos. The first is from a series of hilarious (but lewd!) clips featuring cast members from the current Broadway production of The Importance of Being Earnest reading transcripts from Jersey Shore. (In case you are unfamiliar with the general, um, level of decorum in Jersey Shore, you'll probably not want to watch this one with the sound cranked at work!)

This second video is from an older but equally hilarious series called Drunk History. It's fairly self-explanatory (and historically inaccurate)...

Happy Tuesday, everyone!

Victoria Update: Pippa Jacket

2011-08-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

It's not that I'm looking forward to the wet weather of fall... but I am excited to sport the very stylish Pippa Jacket. It's a classic look and fit with a hood. Made in waxed cotton means it's water repellant. And, as the washing instructions state on the inside - just hose it down! Comes in black. Sizes S,M,L. $240.

Vanilla Poached Peaches

2011-08-29T10:23:00.000-07:00

I have been enjoying many lovely breakfasts in the garden lately - August has been fantastic in Vancouver. The garden table is in a lovely spot with the tomatoes looming large, the beets tickling your ankles under the table and the chairs sinking sideways into the soft soil. It's feels a little like a child's tea party.

Here's a couple of views of our garden table (one with a Lily linen tablecloth):

Yesterday, after enjoying a breakfast of pan-fried oysters that we shared with our upstairs neighbour, my boyfriend declared that he would love to have vanilla poached peaches for breakfast the following day. It was an interesting request (although I had just purchased 10 pounds of peaches the previous day at a farm stand), as I have never made poached peaches before and he had never mentioned them, but I agreed that it would be a delicious breakfast. So, I did the standard internet search for recipes, blended a few, picked up a vanilla bean and this morning got to work. It was a little time consuming, but fun and the result was so worth it - visually and gastronomically!

I think I may want to turn this whole box of peaches into the glistening gems that follow.

Lily Inspiration: Maternity Fashion (and Comfort!)

2011-08-25T15:25:00.000-07:00

Okay, I admit it, I am not a fan of "maternity" clothes. The idea of buying an entire wardrobe of commercially produced, synthetic and uncomfortable garments that I will only wear for the short time in which my belly measurement will exceed every other part of my body is not appealing to my financial or fashion sensibilities. So far, I have managed to escape purchasing outside my comfort zone and I'm happy to report I've found many Smoking Lily items which have grown with me and my baby, which I'll be wearing long after he or she is snuggling in my arms.

The Hama Hama top was great in the beginning (and perfect for nursing), but now that I'm in my 7th month, the length of the Simple Tee provides flattering coverage and stretch.

The Petite Anglais is by far my favorite skirt, with a wide stretchy waistband and front/back reversible option. Plus I can wear the skirt above or below the knee too, making this super comfy pencil skirt even more versatile.

The Fandango skirt has an elasticized waistband and sits below my baby belly. It hits just below the knee for a fun, flirty sashay.

Our new Frontenac dress (in Black and Olive hemp jersey) is very cute wore with or without the two-tone braided belt, and looks extra special with an Obi Belt.

For special occasions, our Print Your Own service can dress up your own garment with one of our prints. While there are limitations on the fabric we can silk screen on (it has to be at least 60% natural fibers and we can't print over seams or on bumpy fabric), this option can add a finishing touch to an otherwise plain garment. Contact our in-store personnel for details on this service.

Simple Tee in Red $34 and Wool Fandango Skirt in Black $55

The Frontenac Dress in black $102 with cotton Obi Belt $44

Studio Update-athon!

2011-08-25T15:10:00.000-07:00

La la la, Thursdays in the studio and the ladies are gettin things done. Thank goodness it's cooler than yesterday or you'd be peeling us all of the floor at quittin' time.

The disembodied hands above belong to Nicole, who's churning out some Banff skirts (that pic reminds me of Thing from the Addams Family. Best butler ever award?).

Above is the lovely jo-jo-bean ready for snippin' and sewin' of a new sample top.

And this is Rose giving me a hand drying some of our lovely wool scarves (yummy yellow is a big winner for punches of colour this Fall and Winter).

Last I figured you'd all be stoked and ready for our super comfy fall dress: The Frontenac (advice for pronuciantion: imagine you are Jean Chretien).

Cute print of Canoes and Spotted Feather on the black is tres adorable. Also notice the booty? This dress is friends with bootylicious ladies.

And on the olive Frontenacs (more green than they appear in the pic above) are prints of the giant spotted feather. These dresses in stores everywhere tomorrow!

Johnson St. Fest for a great cause

2011-08-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun at the Johnson Street Fest last year that we are doing it again this Saturday, August 27th.

Lower Johnson St. boutiques are raising money for the Make A Wish foundation. Always a great cause! There are a few ways that you can donate this Saturday:

* The boutiques will be selling "wish stars" at $2 each, the street's goal is to sell 2500! Just go into any shop along the 500 to 600 blocks of Johnson Street to purchase them.

* I heard today that our Mayor is going to auction off the use of his parking spot for one week and that Kuba Oms will be taking his turn at the dunk tank!

* Smoking Lily will have a "Guidance Booth", where, for a donation, we will help point you in the right direction in life, love, work, or maybe just where to get a good cup of coffee.

There are many other great events planned for the day. You can check out the facebook page for more information.

Come by and say hi to the lovely Lily's manning our shop on Saturday, check out our fabulous sales rack for great deals, help raise funds for awesome kids and have lots of fun doing it!

See ya there!

Studio Update: Wool Blankets

2011-08-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Here's what's going on in the studio today! Another batch of beautiful wool blankets are headed your way.

First, I lay out the vintage blankets to check for holes or marks; then I get creative with an inspirational pile of printed and patterned fabrics.

I lay out a large print with some harmonious pieces then sew it all together.

The result, gorgeous throws! I can just imagine them strewn over couch backs, on sunny lawns during a picnic, on the deck of a boat or perhaps in a hammock next to the cabin... perfect decorative coziness for wherever you plan to snuggle.

Summer Window Display Up For Sale

2011-08-22T09:06:00.000-07:00

The Vancouver Summer window display is now available for sale. One large pretty birdcage hanging centerpiece ($144) and two sweet birdcage hanging lamps ($86 each) are free to fly out of the shop and into your home. I think they would be fabulous for a children's bedroom or in a breakfast nook (I wish I had one). Feel free to call us at the Main Street shop 604.873.5459 for dimensions, or with any other questions.

If you are on the West Coast today, happy puddle jumping!!

In Memory...

2011-08-22T08:45:00.000-07:00

A great contributor to Canadian politics, Jack Layton, will be sorely missed by Canadians of all political persuasions.

Ashni Scarves

2011-08-20T09:07:00.001-07:00

Beautiful, soft, warm, breathable, colourful, wool scarves with engaging all-over prints.

Available in blue, teal, magenta, grey, olive, coral, dark red, yellow, brown, and black for $48.

Lily Inspiration: Serving Pouch

2011-08-19T17:45:00.000-07:00

Most of the staff at Smoking Lily have worked, are working or will work as a restaurant server. We created these pouches after many requests from staff and customers. They're made out of durable cotton canvas and have two pockets for your serving essentials. Stop by the Milkman's Daughter to pick one up - only 2 left!

Serving Pouch, $26

New Squirrel Hunter

2011-08-19T12:22:00.000-07:00

This just in from one of our favourite mail order customers:

"I just recently got back from holidays and just had to tell you that I loved travelling with the squirrel hunter tunic. I wore it paired with the Cotton Cardigan and cropped leggings. I had planned to take photos, but unfortunately most of the time we were rushing through airports so I couldn't stop to do a "fashion shoot" of my cute AND comfortable outfit. Most importantly, those pockets are not only good for stuffing squirrels, they're also great for stashing a passport when you have a billion things in your hands and need to put it somewhere safe and secure quickly. Those ample pockets came to my rescue numerous times, and also allowed easy access when I was being barked at by the customs officer. Thanks for making such great looking functional clothes!"

Thanks Julie!

Victoria Shops Update: We're Hiring!

2011-08-18T18:01:00.000-07:00

Do you love Smoking Lily?

Do you have retail sales experience?

Do you have the attitude that no job is too small or too large to fulfill?

Smoking Lily is looking for a salesperson to work in the Victoria stores: The Milkman's Daughter and the Wee Flagship Shop. Please forward cover letters and resumes to milk@smokinglily.com or drop off at the Milkman's Daughter.

Studio Update: Olive Hama Hamas

2011-08-18T11:12:00.000-07:00

New this week, we are in production of a new shade of Hama Hama top. This front/back reversible Smoking Lily classic, for those of you who haven't tried one on yet, is close to the body, flattering and features a wide boatneck in a Bamboo-Lycra fabric that is at once drapey and stretchy. Comfortable enough to sleep in, structured enough to wear to the office, breathable and all around delightful!

Liz printing samaras (Maple Pods) on Olive Hama Hama tops $44

Lily Home: Anthropomorphic Plates and Cards

2011-08-17T18:33:00.000-07:00

The Milkman's Daughter and our Vancouver shop both received these amazing plates and cards last week. They make a wonderful gift for others (or for yourself!). Here are a few photos of my favourites:

Tommy C, $80

Fawn $50

Rachelle the cockatoo, $65

Black and White and Grey for Fall

2011-08-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

With some red for good fun!

Cotton Cardigan, Plaid Cypress Skirt, Hama Hama Top, and Striped Hester Skirt:

...And More New Fall Garments!

2011-08-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Bamboo Longsleeve Tee and Wool Fandango Skirt!

More New Fall Garments!

2011-08-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

Wool Vests and Skirts! The Jasper.

Vancouver Update: Fall garments arriving in shops today!

2011-08-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

We are pretty excited about our new Fall line! Fortunately pieces start to arrive in stores today (and are available for mail order too), so we no longer have to contain our enthusiasm - phew.

We will be posting photos, descriptions and prices on our website on Thursday. Until then, I am going to reveal some photos to you via a few blog posts today. Here we go.....

Red Corduroy Dress! Zed for short.

Frontenac Dress!

Studio Update!

2011-08-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

In the studio we've been busy bees creating some new things for the cool weather that seems to already be creeping up on us once the sun goes down. For those cool nights or windy evenings, how about a nice new selection of our classic Cape of Good Hope?

These will be available in three new colours: camel, brown and black.

And for the fellas a new colour of men's tee, Forest Green!!

These new creations will be available in stores tomorrow!

Keep on rockin in the free world.

Lily Inspiration: What I did on my summer vacation.

2011-08-12T15:14:00.000-07:00

This summer Rick and I took a little road trip. We drove from Victoria to Oliver B.C., down through Washington State to Pendleton Oregon and then across to Portland. It was a lot of driving, but so much fun.

We relaxed at Tinhorn Creek's guest house and drank in the view.

Wild horses near Osoyoos. I didn't want to get any closer....now you know that I'm a huge wuss.

Rattlesnake country, the Grand Culees.

We took a tour through the Pendleton Woolen Mills. Sounds dorky but we really enjoyed it.

The mill was built in 1909. A lot of the equipment they still use today was made in the 1940's.

Quality control area.

We made some cushion covers from wool that I picked up at the mill.

Studio Update

2011-08-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of bustling activity going on in the studio recently. Fall designs, fabrics and prints are making their way across our printing tables. There are also some great men's T's, as usual of course! I brought my son in to try them on, he loves the bold colours and great prints.

This is a great time to come on in and get the guy in your life a T shirt that will make heads turn. Can you guess which was his favourite?

Vancouver Update: Cycling Mania!

2011-08-10T18:32:00.000-07:00

If you don't generally tune in to The Early Edition on CBC Radio One, you've probably never heard High Velocity, a regular "column" on the show (Wednesdays at 7:50 a.m.) by local radio personality (and wonderful Vancouver shop regular!), Margaret Gallagher. It's a great little report on the local cycling scene and all the issues related to riding your bike in Vancouver.

This morning, Margaret was discussing the controversy surrounding B.C.'s mandatory helmet law; apparently there is a legal challenge currently underway in the name of increasing cyclist safety. I had no idea there was any ambiguity about helmets being good for cyclists' safety, but the programme had some very interesting food for thought. The main argument seems to be that getting a critical mass of riders on the street (which mandatory helmets for adults discourages) does more to increase driver awareness and, therefore, cyclist safety on the road than the benefit provided by helmets in case of a crash. Does anybody know more about these wild new ideas?

In any event, the whole thing got me thinking about hopping my bike and some of the best pieces in the shop right now for going for a ride....with a helmet, of course!

Our leather Bike Bag (on sale for $62) is a great way to travel around town with a few necessities in style. Even better, it comes with a detachable shoulder strap for when your bike is parked!

Our Simple Tees ($29--$34) are nice and long, so your backside won't be showing (no matter how low you've got your handle bars set!). Currently available in a selection of light-weight bamboo jersey and cotton, they are very soft, breathable, and good for layering.

The Garden State Dress ($108) is made of soft, breathable bamboo jersey and has a comfortable, swingy skirt with lots of room for movement. Bamboo jersey is great for getting sweaty in, as it dries out much, much faster than cotton and is naturally anti-microbial--a fancy way of saying that you wont get stinky even if you're sweaty!

Last, but not least, I absolutely love wearing my Cypress Skirt (linen on sale for $89, cotton $69) while riding around town. The high, wide waistband is super comfortable (and good for hiding tummies!), while the full skirt is roomy and long enough to avoid accidental dismount flashing--yay!

Lily Spotlight: New Tea Cozies and Tea Towels

2011-08-10T10:19:00.001-07:00

One of our silk screeners Liz just came back from her month long wilderness hiatus to mainland B.C. and Alberta, and she has been busy silk screening like crazy around here the past week. Amongst some of her brilliant creations we have new and bright colours of tea cozies and tea towels to entertain and amuse.

Silk tea cozies in Pink, Teal, Pewter, Turqoise and Emerald $49

Cotton tea towels in Pink with Bunnies and Bullets, Gold with Owl, Purple with Rabbits, Wheat with Louis Riel, Striped with Enormous Heart, Lake Blue with Compass and Canoes, Denim with Tractor, Grey with Bike and Blossoms and Forest Green with Lyre Bird - all $14 each

Victoria Stores Update: Blackbird Studios Ceramic Jewellery and Dinnerware

2011-08-08T17:23:00.000-07:00

Blackbird Studios ceramic jewellery by local artist Paige Kearns-Coull is very unique and beautiful. She scours the world for vintage plate and ceramic decals to use in her work. We now have pendant necklaces and earrings in the little shop on Johnson street. One of the necklaces even has three little dots of sterling silver on it! In our shop on Johnson street you will find her earrings and necklaces and in our shop on Government street, the milkman's daughter, you will find bowls, cups and the like...

Pendant necklace $45

Earrings $35

Vacation Station

2011-08-07T10:05:00.001-07:00

Hey guys! Liz here, back from vacation and trying to figure out how to narrate a month of life on the road. Words that come to mind are coffee, coffee, more coffee, sunglasses, roadside treasures, friendly locals, engine humming, sitting on still lakes, beers with buds, ups and downs, hills and valleys, bill bryson on tape, dust, flora, fauna, big sky, red fox, incredible mountains, dirt under fingernails, dirt on everything (really), campfire smoke, BEARS BEARS BEARS, nuggets of gold, dinosaur bones, wide rivers, mars-like desert-scape, and terrifying speeding rigs barrelling down the highway behind us.

The van was awesome. It did tend to get cluttered up pretty fast,

but next time we take off we'll probably only pack half as much.

Sunny times outside Osoyoos where we watched the Canada Day fireworks from a hill overlooking the lake (the camera I was using for these pictures did not have sufficient capabitiles for capturing fireworks in the night sky, but they were crazy! The show went on for about 45 minutes!)

A little passenger ferry we took on our way from Nelson to Banff

And last for now, the truly amazing Rockies. One of the highlights of the trip was being able to explore this mountain range both on wheels and camping/hiking about.

Now these are only the first 3 or 4 days of the trip, once I figure how to get the pictures off the other memory card I'll do another post with more BISON and BEARS and FOXES oh my!

Lily Inspiration: Birthday Flies!

2011-08-05T14:12:00.000-07:00

An extra special (belated) birthday surprise was hiding in today's box from Victoria: the world's most amazing, fly-covered picnic blanket! Knowing that Glenda loves picnics, blankets, picnic blankets, and all of our fly prints, Trish has sort of outdone herself with this one.

I love how all the individual flies are printed in a giant, cross-stitch-esque fly configuration (does that make it fly squared??); even more amazing is that this was printed by hand, one fly at a time! I'm sure it's only a short matter of time before Glenda starts introducing all her new little fly friends to some local ants...

Super Summer Sale!

2011-08-05T13:27:00.001-07:00

Super summer sale! The Pyatt Tunic (above) is just one of the items marked down to make room for all the Fall garments we are making at the studio.

This rack must be empty before we can put the new Fall items out!

Get your guy in some colour would you! Raspberry and aqua Men's Cotton Tees are just $24 starting... NOW!

Our 3 shops have lots of super good stuff to choose from, as does the website, for all you on-liners. I am ready with my mailing envelopes.

(please note, sale items are final sale)

Thanks and happy shopping

Sneak Peek!

2011-08-04T12:09:00.000-07:00

Here is a little sneak peek at some of the

NEW fall looks!

Now lets not rush summer out the door just yet, but we are really excited

about our new fall looks. We have been working hard in the studio these last few weeks to

get a little head start on all our new fun stuff!

Rose working on belts for our new hemp, cotton, Lycra dresses!

New warm woolly Fandangos!

Nicole drafting up a little something for under your skirts and dresses, adding

cute lacy trim to your new or already favourite outfits.

Our long awaited much anticipated new wool vest! Something really different that just looks great on everyone!

Lily Home: Elegant Linen Throws

2011-08-03T16:25:00.000-07:00

Trish has concocted the most beautiful summer throws of all time. They are perfect for draping over your legs on cool summer evenings, pretty as tablecloths, and I think they would make the most charming picnic blankets. They are made with Italian linen, vintage lace, awesome Lily prints and plenty of love...

All studio visitors must report to the office!

2011-08-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

The lovely Steph, who is off learning the art of motherhood, came for her first studio visit with baby Oliver! We have been waiting patiently for them to make the trip, and now we have all had our baby holding fix. Thanks you two! Steph did a little shopping, we are all happy. We've missed you Steph.

Vancouver Update: Garden Before and After

2011-08-02T10:50:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be fun to post a few shots of the progress of my home garden. The greenhouse has done us well, as we have been eating Kale and Spinach non-stop for the last month. The herbs are pretty prolific too, including the Shiso (a Japanese herb likened to basil). Here are a few before and after shots.

before

after

before

after

The new patch is the second round of Spinach.

The Lemon Cucumbers are starting to wind their way up the trellis.

The Beans are pushing their way out of the greenhouse.

And our poppies are blooming (yes, we planted them rather late!).

So far all the hard work has paid off. I'll have to do a quick before and after of the pumpkin patch too...

Happy B.C. Day!

2011-08-01T11:40:00.000-07:00

Lily Inspiration: Locavores on Bikes!

2011-07-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

Anyone with whom I have even a passing acquaintance can tell you that I like food. In fact, I like food a lot--especially locally grown, fresh, seasonal, Michael Pollan-approved kinds of food. In true locavore foodie spirit, Scott, our dear friend Aimée (who we sucker into working at the Vancouver shop every once in a while), and I decided to buy tickets for the Slow Food Vancouver cycle tour of Agassiz last Saturday. What an adventure! The annual tour is a self-guided visit to all sorts of interesting farms and food producers where you can eat, buy local products, and learn all sorts of fabulous things about good stuff to, well, eat. ...And, um, did I mention the eating?

This shot was taken at the first stop on our tour: The Farm House Natural Cheeses. Not only did they have incredibly delicious cheeses, but the world's friendliest donkey and insanely cute goats (see below!).

Riding through the orchard at Canadian Hazelnut was definitely a high point of the tour. The photo doesn't quite convey the overwhelming "enchanted forest" effect the dappled sun had.

Whilst checking out the UBC Dairy Education and Research Centre, we were required to "suit up" with these amazingly fashionable plastic booties in order to avoid tracking pathogens near newborn calves. They were a little silly and sweaty, but they allowed us to get up close and personal with....

...Superhumanly cute baby cows! We named this one Li'l Licky. You can guess why.

A little later in the day we stopped to gobble down homemade pies at Blackberry Lane B&B. Sitting in the grass, slurping down lemonade and pie while looking out over a paddock of happy little lambs was pretty idyllic. One recurring topic of discussion that afternoon was how incredibly cute farm animals are up close and in person....

Another major topic was how ridiculously beautiful Agassiz is.

This is, without a doubt, the best looking corn field I've ever seen--and my mother is from Kentucky farm country. I've seen a lot of corn fields!

The last stop of the day was at the quaintly rustic Limbert Mountain Farm, which sells an alluring assortment of fresh produce, garden plants, homemade comestibles and teas.

None of us had ever been on the tour before, but we had a great time and would highly recommend it to anyone with even a passing interest in food--you'd never guess how interesting a tour of a working family dairy farm from a second-generation dairy farmer is! We will definitely be signing up for next year's tour; you should, too!

Silk Screening Workshop!

2011-07-29T13:59:00.000-07:00

Did you ever want to learn how to screen print? Our second round of classes are filling up fast! If you'd like to get in on this amazing opportunity, sign up now!

This class is geared towards the DIY person. We will teach you how to make a screen from scratch, which you get to take home at the end. We will take the mystery out of photo emulsion. You will learn how to turn your ideas into prints using several different methods. We will provide you with tea towels and a super special tote made by Smoking Lily for you to print with your own designs.

The workshop is broken into 3 classes: August 9th, 5:30 to 7:30; August 16th, 5:30 to 8:00; and August 23rd, 5:30 to 9:00.

The workshop price is $220. You will go away with some lovely tea towels and a tote adorned with your designs, plus you take home your own screen so you can print more of the image you create in class. On top of that, you will have the knowledge to do the whole process yourself, from scratch!

We run on a first to pay, first in system. You can register at Smoking Lily 569 Johnson Street, 250-382-5459.

Oh yeah, you will have homework and there may be minimal expenses for materials ($5 or so).

Studio Update: Farm Vacation

2011-07-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

I was slated to post the Studio Update this week, and I'm pretty sure all the girls at the studio are busy sewing our fall clothes, but I'm on vacation at my parents farm in Ontario... so, I thought I'd share a few photos from my trip.

I found a few antlers in the barn - they're returning to Victoria with me for our fall scarf display.

There are plenty of Canadian thistles around the farm - great print idea.

I found rolls of raw wool in the shed.

Another print idea... chevron of a tractor tire.

I really like the hay rake.

My mom made 2 fresh raspberries pies the first day home. Yum!

My mom made two fresh raspberries pies the first day home. Yum!

Lily Spotlight: Hester Skirt

2011-07-27T11:13:00.000-07:00

Since we have just created a new incarnation of the Hester Skirt, I thought it fitting to do a little retrospective on this cute garment. We've been making this mini skirt for 5 years now. It's seen different pocket styles, and different fabrics, some have been silk-screened, and some not. The common thread is the great fit and cute factor.

I have to confess that I have 5 of them - yes, five! I know it seems crazy but I've loved every incarnation and they are my favourite go to piece for walking out the front door feeling good. In my early 40's I told myself that I would stop wearing mini skirts when I turned 45. Thankfully my boyfriend convinced my otherwise (what boy is going to say "yeah, I think that skirt is too short"?). I will say that I only wear them with tights now, the legs not being what they once were. It will be interesting to see if 50 becomes my new cutoff point for this skirt. For now I am grappling with whether to add a 6th to the collection. Who am I kidding...the new striped version is waaay to cute to resist.

Spring 2006

Summer 2007

Fall 2007

Spring 2008

Fall 2008

Spring 2009

Fall 2010

Spring 2011

Summer 2011

Lily Inspiration: Martin Creed

2011-07-26T15:23:00.000-07:00

On Thursday last I joined up with a few friends to take a guided tour through the current Rennie Collection. To experience Martin Creed's work we waded through pink balloons, avoided runners while viewing hundreds of broccoli cross-section stampings, listened to a wall of metronomes while viewing explorations in office supply felt markers, watched videos of people throwing up (needless to say it was the most challenging room in the building), and listened as a grand piano gently lifted and slammed shut over and over again. It was a varied and fun tour culminating in a perfect view of Martin Creed's neon piece "Everything Is Going To Be Alright".

Here are a few of the photos I took during the tour. I have a couple of videos of the balloon room that I'll try to get posted for you sometime soon.

Vancouver Update: New Skirts!

2011-07-26T09:43:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed these newest additions to a very long line of Smoking Lily skirts posted on our website this weekend. They are fantastic skirts. We love skirts! They are fun, comfortable and I feel they make for a much less traumatic change-room experience than pants (Does anyone else find that pants are overly cruel about pointing out less than desirable physical features, while skirts are happy to help out with acceptable delusions of walking about in your younger body by skimming over the difficult spots and highlighting the good stuff? Aaah skirts, you're a good friend). As any of you that have shopped in our Vancouver store will know, Erin and I are always happy to extoll the benefits of the almighty skirt... and their awesome cousin, the slip.

Here's the new Cypress skirt in men's shirting cotton plaid, paired with a red Hama Hama top and a cotton jersey Cardigan.

And here's the new Hester skirt in striped cotton canvas paired with a Simple Tee - fun!

Victoria Shops Update: Blackbird Studio ceramics, and my first blog!

2011-07-25T15:27:00.000-07:00

Welcome! My name's Chance. I started working at Smoking Lily back in March and the time has come for my first blog post! If you're familiar with this blog, I'm the one who can be seen thoroughly enjoying the Anthology magazine in one of our recent posts; it really is a great magazine :)

You should all try to make it down to The Milkman's Daughter soon so you can so you can A: say hi to me!; and, B: check out a new line of ceramics we're carrying by Blackbird Studios.

These beautiful pieces are created by Paige, who lives here in Victoria.

This lovely little kitty food & water dish (on the left) is so adorable it makes me want to get a cat just so I have a reason to buy it (I'm deathly allergic to cats, but it's just that cute!).

Each piece is 100% unique, with no design repeated.

I love this bowl, too, it's so purdy.

....And with the lovely flower and itty bitty polka dots inside? Get out, too cute!

These coffee mugs are just lovely, with their blue bottoms--a great touch.

I would have to say, though, that my favorite part about this whole line is that Paige signs each piece, adding a very personal and warm feel.

So happy to meet you all and I hope to see you down at Milk soon!

Victoria Pride Parade

2011-07-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

Is it summer yet? I see the occasional pocket of sunshine and a whole lot of unseasonably cool weather. When it may not be as summery out as I would like, I think about Victoria's Pride Parade a couple of weeks ago.

The entire city was beaming with light and good energy. I went with a friend of mine and we trailed along the parade route behind the loud speakers of the last float. We danced through the city behind the Eve's of Destruction roller derby team, and behind the Cheesecake Burlesque troupe. Later in the afternoon I was joking to my friend that we're probably already on YouTube... and it turns out we were.

At :32 seconds I can be seen in my black Garden State dress with orange flowers in my hair. I was mighty tired by that point but my friend pirouettes through the frame. I can't wait until next year!

Studio Update: Banniverithary Day

2011-07-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, today's post is shamelessly very much all about me. I have been working for the wonderful and great Smoking Lily for 1 year as of July 19th. When I first got in the studio I was generally quiet and could barely put in a zipper. Now, thanks to all the great ladies I work with, I am a master of the sewing machine.

I whipped up some awesome vanilla rainbow cupcakes with pretty purple icing as a thank you for putting up with me for the last year... I am known to quote movies, dance a lot, and ramble on about various things until I create obnoxious amounts of laughter.

Funny? yes.

Annoying to others?

... YES!

So, July 19th was my 1st Annual Smoking Lily Banniverithary Day.

Cut Loose... It's Friday.

Studio Update: Park Dress

2011-07-21T14:08:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I managed to make it into the studio to be entertained by Joanne (and her music) and to sew the last run of Park dresses. They are one size and will fit a variety of 2-4 year old girls. Each summer dress has a purple floral top and is printed with our Owlfly or Tweety. You can find these cute dresses at the Vancouver shop and The Milkman's Daughter. They make great presents and retail for $36.

Lily Home: Stools!

2011-07-20T15:50:00.001-07:00

Two super cute new stools in the Vancouver shop! Grey velvet with our new, all-over garlic print (above, $139), and black embroidered leather (below, $80). I particularly love the curved, saddle shape of the the little garlic-y fellow--so good for bums and feet!

Silk Screen Workshop

2011-07-20T14:49:00.001-07:00

Last night was the final night of our current workshop class and Rachael and I had a blast. We had a great group of people in.

Okay, this is cool. Anna flattened a flower in a book and then she drew it. Good job lady, you taught me something new.

Perfect bread bag by Katherine.

Cathy put a lot of thought into this and ended up with four perfectly matched napkins.

Cathy is doing it! Yah!

Close up of Margot's owl in a tree with hand painted leaves.

Natasha had a little factory going on in the back corner. Pillowcases, bags, tees, skirts, tea towels.. and I'm sure there was more.

Margot prepping her screen to print her onzies she made for her niece.

Natasha came in with a quilt she made in the last week using her sample screen run we did in the 2nd class. Pretty impressive.

Julie's daughter Ruth is getting a great bag for her first day of school in the fall.

Vancouver Update: Backyard Garden Tour

2011-07-19T17:27:00.000-07:00

I know I have documented my love for the Hastings-Sunrise neighbourhood in these (virtual) pages before, but today I want to share some more 'hood-related info that might also be of interest to denizens of other parts of the city. If you're free this coming Saturday (June 23rd) you may want to check out the 2011 Summer of Sustainability Garden Tour, a self-guided jaunt through the neighbourhood to specific residential gardens that focus on various aspects of sustainability. Not only is the tour geared towards good things like xeriscaping, beekeeping, veggie gardening, and backyard chickens, but there are interesting workshops, snacks, seeds for winter gardening, the voyeuristic pleasure of snooping around in other people's yards, and it's free! Awesome!

Sadly, it's the same day as the Slow Food Vancouver cycle tour of farms in Agassiz, for which I bought tickets ages ago. Since I won't be around to check out the Backyard Garden Tour myself, I expect a full report from someone next week!

Victoria update

2011-07-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

Some darling new onzies & baby tees in are now in stock. In papaya, ocean and danish blue.

Onezies in sizes 3-6mo, 6-12mo, 12-18mo and tees in size 2.
These cuties are printed on 100% organic cotton, designed in Canada and made in India in a sweatshop-free environment. And of course perfected with a Smoking Lily print!

Studio Update

2011-07-18T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hello

The end of July and August is a weird time in the studio. It's hot, people go on vacation and we transition from making our summer line to our fall line. Today we are sewing skirts that are either left over fabrics or from bolts we never got to in our regular summer production run.

The Keith in the Donna Tunic fabric.

Grey Keith with Maple Pods printed in black and Minnesota Yellow.

Black and white plaid Cypress Skirt in cotton....(I only have three of these skirts already, but I am very excited for my fourth).

Art Show: Remember Home

2011-07-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

Studio Update: Print Yer Owns and Special Orders On Hold

2011-07-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

We are told that it is summer here on the West Coast (I urge those of you West of the Rocky Mountains not to look out of your window if you want to maintain that delusion today). Despite the unpredictable weather, many of us have booked vacation days at the end of July. With the mass exodus of optomistic staff, our studio will be pretty quiet over the next two weeks.

So, from July 21st to August 2nd, there will be no Special Orders or Print Yer Own Orders taken. Don't worry, we'll get right back at it after that.

I have my fingers crossed that our wonderful silk-screeners and sewers will be lounging pool-side with frosty cocktails, rather than drinking hot toddies and snuggling under blankets to watch old movies. Bon voyage mes amis!

(If you haven't discovered the wonders of Special Orders and Print Yer Owns, feel free to call any of the shops and we'll fill you in on the fantastic possibilities for custom Smoking Lily products!)

Where I Went On My Vacation: A little taste of sunshine

2011-07-15T14:26:00.000-07:00

One month ago today I was laying in the hot sun, sipping fresh pineapple juice, while waiting for a plane to take me from Maui back to Vancouver. If you haven't been to Hawaii... I recommend opening up another window in your Internet browser and booking a trip right now. Young, old, kids, no kids, it's a must do trip. I went with my sister Charlotte and her two boys Charlie and Parker... Hilarious and fun.

We happened to see some of Anthony Hopkins' art on display in Lahaina. Very awesome and inspiring.

Parker got in trouble from security for splashing too much.

Volcano beach at the end of a dirt road.

Doing out best Sports Illustrated pose.

My favorite spot for shopping was Paia. Lots of locally made products and clothing. There was a bikini shop called Maui Girl that makes all their bathing suits right there in Maui. You can custom order a bikini just the way you want it. Paia also has a Flatbread pizza place with amazing flat bread pizzas smothered in cheese, attentive staff and a great selection of crayons with a mission statement to better the lives of all who eat there and as well as all their staff and community members.

Best Trip of All Time.

Lily Inspiration: Anthology Magazine (again)

2011-07-14T09:56:00.001-07:00

I know we just did a post about this magazine, but it was so darn good I had to do another. I was so excited when I was in the Anthropologie shop in New York and came across Anthology. I had been seeing the magazine here and there on various blogs, but never really gave it a thought until there it was, right in front of me! I thought that I would adore it, and sure enough I did. I convinced Trish to carry it here at The Milkman's Daughter, so now you can come pick it up too! (We are the only supplier of this magazine here on the island! So proud!)

I thought it would be appropriate to spotlight this Spring 2011 issue, as I have been inspired by at least eight parts of the magazine (that I can think of right now.) I have narrowed it down to three, and at the same time am giving you a little peek into the magazine itself. Come by and get your copy, you won't regret it! It's really more like a home decor, inspiration, cookbook, people, places...everything awesome book. Not a magazine. It comes out quarterly, with the seasons, so you can be sure to get inspired all year round!

Apologies for any washed out photography, it is rainy here today and I just couldn't get good lighting!

Crazy quilts! Oh how they are so amazing. My mom and I have been collecting 1930's vintage reproduction, and various other quilting fabric, for quite some time. When I saw this quilt at the foot of the bed on page pictured above, I knew that was what I was going to make with it. The photo on the right is the start of my version.

I am admittedly obsessed with Anthropologie's style, so when I found out they recently opened up a store in Vancouver, I worked it in with a visit for my cousin's baby shower. There I found this cute kitchen timer! My boyfriend later pointed out, while flipping through the magazine, that it was the same one as on the door of the stove in this photo. Subconsious Anthology influences!

It was about two years ago that I did this family photo montage in my living room. I was glad to see it in Anthology done with thrift store find paint-by-numbers, still lifes, and landscape paintings. I am now inspired to do a similar collection above the headboard in my bedroom!

Smoking Lily Spotlight: Screen-printing Workshop

2011-07-13T14:06:00.000-07:00

Last night was the second evening of our current screen-printing series. I really am enjoying teaching the current group. We burned screens, which is the nerve racking evening. You never know if it is going to work because there are so many variables. It is so exhilarating when it all works out.

Yesterday afternoon I burned a test screen to make sure everything would go smoothly during class. I made a little cactus branch, and today we screened it on the Lucrezia Top. I wish summer would come...

There are still spots available for the August screen-printing workshop! You can call the Johnson Street shop at 250.382.5459 if you'd like to join in on the fun.

Milkman Update: Anthology Magazine

2011-07-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

The Milkman's Daughter is now carrying an awesome new magazine: Anthology. It's relatively new (currently 3rd issue) and highlights home decor, travel, design, entertainment and culture. Come by to pick up a copy, $14 CAD.

Beautiful.

Even an article from the island... (you'll have to pick up an issue to find out more)

All of our staff loves Anthology.

Vancouver Update: Lily at Stanley Park Concert

2011-07-12T10:53:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night, Christina and I closed up the Main Street shop, hopped on our bikes, met up with our boyfriends, and cycled down to Stanley Park to enjoy some of the free concerts put on for Canada's 125th birthday.

Christina reminded me to bring my camera, as we were all clad in Smoking Lily, naturally!

It was a busy, boisterous, friendly atmosphere. We met up with and bumped into numerous friends (including 2 visiting from LA) and so my camera lay forgotten for most of the night as we chatted and cajoled and listened to Neko Case and then The New Pornographers. Here are a few of the snaps that I did take:

Christina took the photo of her boyfriend Blair's affection for Neko - hilarious!

We cut out a little early to avoid the crowds and managed to snake our way around Lost Lagoon. It was a fun and refreshing ride through the dark park. We stopped in Yaletown for a snack and then hopped on the Canada Line train with our bikes, to avoid the big hill on the way home at 1:00am. As much as I thought I should feel lame putting my bike on the train, I must admit that it was really nice to cruise downhill the last few blocks toward home...

Keith Skirt

2011-07-11T13:11:00.002-07:00

I have this lovely photo of the Keith skirt and though I'd post it to go with the earlier days photos. I loved this skirt instantly when I saw it in the original red and am excited to see it in the blue.

Victoria Store Update: Meet the whole family!

2011-07-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize it until now, but we have been giving all of the clothing around here people names recently. We usually stick to descriptive terms, obscure words, perhaps names of places, but we've really been keen on the "actual" name names these days. I guess it happened by fluke for the most part. The Keith skirt got named that because of the man who came from the Globe and Mail to do an interview in the studio. He wondered what the name of the new skirt I was sewing was, and Trish jokingly said "It's called the Keith!" He seemed to not mind. The Donna tunic came around because I called the new tunic "That 70's tunic" for lack of a better name. That wasn't going to cut it, so naturally we came to "The Donna" instead. The Lucrezia dress, is in fact a name too (and not an obscure word!) This is the name of a girl from the TV show "The Borgias" which Steph and I became rather enthralled with recently. Lucrezia Borgia was in fact a real woman (according to wikipedia). With such a cool name and family history we just had to name the prettiest of our dresses after her. So yes, come on by and meet the whole family! Keith, Donna and Lucrezia would be happy to make your acquaintance!

The Lucrezia, in the new plaid fabric

The Keith Skirt, in a beautiful new blue

The Donna tunic, in its many resplendent colours

Come To Our Art Show

2011-07-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

Three of the Smoking Lily ladies are having an ART SHOW. The opening is this afternoon from 2 to 5 at the FIFTY FIFTY Gallery here in Victoria, over on Douglas at Bay. We were there late last night hanging, ironing and polishing. It looks great. Come by and say hello to Rachael, Renee and Trish.

ART SHOW!

2011-07-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today July 10th at the 50/50 Arts Collective - 2516 Douglas Street.
Brief sneak peak!

Hello!

2011-07-09T20:29:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Rose. I am the new 'studio gal' which, to me, feels like I've just been given a super-hero name. I'm new to the crew at Smoking Lily and The Milkman's Daughter, happy to be here helping to create the clothing that we all know and love.

I'm an artist and feel the most at home in a studio where inspiration and creativity flow. I've quickly learned that inspiration for the Lily crew comes from everywhere, even from a peek outside their own window.

Out on the rooftop this year's small batch of seagull babies (apparently this is a annual phenomenon) nestle in their nest, waiting for their doting parents to feed them. They hatched not long ago and are growing right before my eyes. I'm sure it won't be long before they fly off to the mean streets of Victoria in search of new adventures, maybe some kyaking or eating ice-cream?

So it seems fitting that hot off the printing tables today came the new Donna dress with soaring birds on an absolutely bewitching sapphire blue.

The colour is really rich and alluring, there's just something about it... It reminds me of phthalocyanine blue paint, or the ink of my favourite pen sliding across white lined paper.

I could see myself wearing this to an art show opening, roaming the beach with my journal, or hitting the Galloping Goose trail on some roller skates. But then again everything goes with roller skates.

Lily Inspiration: Playing for Change

2011-07-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

Studio Update: The Donna

2011-07-07T14:21:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press, ready for you to enjoy at your next summer BBQ! The Donna, a longer more fitted variation on our Pyatt tunic. Trish and I felt this tunic dress was reminiscent of the simple dresses of the 1970's, slip it on with your jute espadrilles and off you go to macrame class. Made of 45% cotton 55% linen, printed all over with a flattering elastic waistband at the back. Great worn layered with pants, or is long enough to go without, as Jo-anne is so beautifully demonstrating for us. With a wrap around pocket to stash your tickets to ABBA and a nice scooped neckline, you be lookin' mighty fine girl. I am sewing these as fast as I can. They should be in stores by next week!

Lily Inspiration: when things are not what they appear to be

2011-07-07T09:12:00.000-07:00

I had to shake my head a little as I tried to figure out what I was looking at when I viewed the following photos.

discovered via Happy Mundane

I knew my brain was meant to be referencing celestial bodies, but was certain that the materials were something quite different. Don't you just love that? When your mind is suddenly jolted into really assessing something, rather than all the automatic connections we routinely process to make sense of our surroundings.

I think that is a little of what I feel when I'm second-handing and come across a rusty tool box or mini doll hands. I see the doll hands in a bin, and then imagine them cleaned up and attached to an embossed wallpapered wall, and from them dangle beautiful necklaces and earrings (I actually have to get around to making that vision a reality in the shop...). Art, like the pieces above, often provides the inspiration for those connections.

These gorgeous photographs are part of a series called Devour. They are an "investigation of worn-out fryingpans" by Christopher Jonassen - brilliant!

Lily Home: Things To Take Home

2011-07-06T07:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, during my lunch break, I sent myself on a mission to visit The Milkman's Daughter. I work in the studio so I don't get to see the outside Smoking Lily world that often. Which is probably a good thing because there is so much AWESOME stuff that I now want! Is it too early to start writing to Santa? 172 days... hmm... Nope! Dear Santa I want....

Trunk Style basket, and the yellow wool blanket, and the book on trees...

Sea foam blue hutch... I've had my eye on this piece since it first came in.

Squirrel lamp

Beetle pillow, tea cozies, and eye glass cases... Yep all of them.

Pretty glasses to put milk in for Santa when he comes to drop off all my gifts...

and I want a pony.

Canoe race in 24 hour day light

2011-07-05T19:00:00.000-07:00

We have a fair number of mail order peeps up north in Whitehorse and Yellowknife.

Garnet, from Whitehorse, emailed me a few weeks back when we posted the new canoe print on the blog. She is doing an epic (in my books anyway) canoe race and thought it would be fitting to have a Squirrel Hunter Tunic with canoes printed all over as a reward when she is finished.

Here is Rose, our new studio gal, modeling the canoe covered Squirrel Hunter. Check out Garnet's super cool canoe race in the northern part of this great 144 year old country of ours. We are cheering on team #22. Good luck Garnet! Hope you love your tunic. Send us a photo!

Vancouver Update: Summer Fabrics

2011-07-05T15:56:00.000-07:00

Mmmm, the warm days of summer have finally hit. When I stepped outside to take photos of new items that arrived in Vancouver today, the sun was wonderfully warm but exceptionally bright, so I shot the garments in the shade of a small tree in front of the shop.

Here is the Lucrezia Dress in a cute lightweight cotton plaid, with an Engineer striped sash. It has that great feminine style with masculine fabrics dichotomy that I always find appealing.

The latest Mt. Pleasant fabric is an acidy yellow/chartreuse. A great fresh summer punch of colour.

Lily in The Globe

2011-07-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

According to a new article filled with fabulous pictures (like the one above), The Globe and Mail thinks we're neat. Yay!

O-Canada O-Yeah

2011-07-04T09:34:00.000-07:00

Arriving to work in style....okay, I'm just a poser. In the background you can see the teepee style tent that Korinne made for the window display. We haven't done the final tally (meaning you can still come into the Milkman's Daughter this week and purchase one or two of Timothy Wilson Hoey's paintings) but it looks like we raised about $500 for the Sally Ann's Send a Kid to Camp charity.

Tim arriving at the show with the cake on his Eaton's Road King. Who knew Eaton's sold motorbikes in the 1960's.

Thanks for the great cake Thrifty Foods. It was delicious.

Yum!

2011-07-03T13:15:00.000-07:00

My raspberries are ripe!

Victoria Visit

2011-07-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

As Trish mentioned, I was over in Victoria earlier this week to help hang Timothy Hoey's art show at The Milkman's Daughter - today! It was really nice to meet Tim and hang out with all the Victoria Lilyites.

Here are a few photos of Tim's work.

And a few random photos of the shop.

Trish, Korinne and I also met to talk about the Fall line and some interesting upcoming events. This was the first time I glimpsed the new Fall pieces and I have to say I fell in love with a few garments; the rest will be really good friends with my ever growing Lily wardrobe. There were some great fabrics and interesting tailoring. Fall is going to be fun.

As for Summer, there are still new pieces in the making, including a really cute linen dress in two stunning colours - a bright fresh green and a deep tealish royal blue. They will likely be in stores next week. We'll keep you posted.

Lily Inspiration: Homes away from Home

2011-07-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today I will be venturing off into the wilderness (after we get out of Calgary I suppose) for a month long road trip with my best fella. We will be travelling all over BC, Alberta and the Yukon. Our general route incorporates visits to friends in big cities, family, and a pal currently tree planting up in Manning. Below a very rough map of our route, as we once we finish paying visits to those good aforementioned folk we will be going wherever the wind takes us.

During the trip our awesome 1994 Toyota Previa will be our home away from home, decked out with a leisurely bed in the back, a trunk full of supplies, mini cooler, poorly made curtains (by yours truly) as well as a bunch of books on tape, books in real life, backgammon, sketch pads, guitars and a harmonica.

(me sewing in some velcro around the windows for curtains)

I've been having a ton of fun polishing up the Thunderwagon into cozy home away from home and making up new and interesting ways of organizing and containing all the things for our trip. Seeing as we won't usually be near computers, my blogs will most likely be few in July, but expect some awesome shots and accounts of travel once I return.

Sayonara!!

Happy Canada Day!

2011-06-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

Wow, I really need to do a better editing job, the last line on the flyer blows - nonsensical grammar and a "typo". The fact is, we will be processing all Canada Day mail orders on Saturday July 2nd. If you have questions pertaining to your mail order, Rachael will get in touch with you on Saturday.

In other Canada Day news, the Victoria Times Colonist newspaper printed an article today about Tim's O-Canada art show tomorrow at the milkman's daughter. Here's a link to the article, and here's the related video.

Glenda came over from Vancouver to help Korinne and Tim hang the show. The shop looks really good.

Remember Home.

2011-06-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

Here at the studio we are excitedly anticipating and preparing for the O-Canada art show at The Milkman's Daughter, on Canada Day, this Friday. It is going to be fabulous.

There is another art show we are excited about around here, one that we have not yet announced!

Trish, Rachael and I are doing an art show together at The Fifty Fifty Arts Collective, a Victoria gallery located at 2516 Douglas Street (between Bay and Hillside). The opening will take place on Sunday, July 10th between 1pm and 4pm. The show will consist of works using various mediums, including: painting, sculptural installation, living art, and silkscreening, of course! There will be much to see and taste, with delicious food and wine available.

The show will run from July 11th to July 29th, with the gallery open 1pm - 4pm daily.

Lily Spotlight: Random Revival

2011-06-29T17:13:00.000-07:00

Random Revival is one of the fabulous lines of jewelry we carry in the Vancouver shop. The creator/artist/jeweler is Sophie Wyser. She is a really interesting person (she recently did a 400 km bike ride, in one day!!, for charity) and has an amazing eye for unusual angles and recycled materials. All of that finds an outlet in her charmingly ever-changing jewelry line.

Here are a few photos of some pieces that are currently in the shop.

Vancouver Update: Bread Photographs Well!

2011-06-28T12:19:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite websites to cruise is a photo blog called The Selby is in Your Place; it's basically what happens when a hipster commercial photographer who knows a ton of interesting people all over the world starts taking photos of his friends' homes and posting them online. Fascinating!

A recent spread he did covered both the workplace and home of the couple who run the Tartine Bakery in San Francisco, and it literally had me dying for baked goods this morning (ok, maybe not literally, but it was pretty bad--look at that photo!!). Just as I was really cursing the fact that San Francisco is so far away I realized that this is the same bakery whose cookbook we carry at The Milkman's Daughter! How sweet is that?

Anyway, we don't have any of these fabulous books in stock in Vancouver (what kind of a "Vancouver Update am I writing, here?!!?), but we'd be more than happy to have the Victoria gals send some over if anyone is interested. I may have to take up baking....

Victoria Update: Our customers are so cool!

2011-06-27T15:34:00.000-07:00

We just got an email from one of our customers--Susan, from Salt Spring Island--containing pictures of an art project she's working on inspired by our vintage wool blanke t s.

This blanket in particular was used to cover a dog crate, and the lovely little bugger decided to use it as a chew toy. Not to worry, though! Susan came up with the (awesome) idea to embroider around the holes and stains and make this beautiful pastel check blanket into something new and totally original.

This submarine (at least that's what my eyes see) totally reminds me of The Life Aquatic. I definitely approve.

Now I'm going to go pull all the damaged blankets out of my goodwill pile (why does this pile never actually get to goodwill...?) and get my art on. Thanks Susan!

What took me so long?

2011-06-26T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have frequently given Smoking Lily tea towels as gifts. They are unique and fun - some are pretty, some are edgy, they come in lots of colours and the recipients always love them. It is my go-to hostess gift, usually as wrapping on a bottle of wine...

Funny thing is, up until a few days ago, I didn't own any myself! And I have to ask myself 'What took me so long?!' At last, though, I am the proud owner of an awesome set of tea towels that really dry things (isn't it weird how some don't?) and my quirky kitchen is way cooler :)

Lily Inspiration: Found Vintage Viking Sewing Machine

2011-06-24T21:30:00.001-07:00

On my way home the other day, I spied an abandoned sewing machine next to a dumpster. Feeling optimistic I ventured closer and found this amazing vintage sewing machine. It needs a good cleaning, some electrical repair and a couple new parts, but I plan on restoring it and seeing what it can do. In two-tone grey with all metal parts and red accents I think it is unique and beautiful. I have never even seen a machine like this before, so I am thrilled to add it to my collection (it's only my second vintage sewing machine find, but in my books more than one equals a collection).

Exposed wires where a plug should be

It might be a Viking, or maybe it isn't?

This grill reminds me of the front of a classic car

All metal gears are forever

Gorgeous Bike Accoutrements

2011-06-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

At the moment it is raining torrentially here in Vancouver. So, when I came across these amazing "dress guards" by Simeli it was nice to feel summer in my heart, if not in my bones. I think they will remain a lovely cycling fantasy (roaming the Dutch countryside) for me as I couldn't bear to see them caked in West Coast mud. Sooooo pretty....

via HONESTLY...WTF

Come get your groove on!!

2011-06-23T16:19:00.001-07:00

One of our Lily store gals, Chance, is in an awesome Motown band.
I'm swingin by, you should too!
June 30 - Logan's Pub - Victoria - $10

Studio Update: Sneak Peak!

2011-06-23T13:00:00.000-07:00

Hello information highway surfers. I've got a couple snaps of some new things we're working on in the studio today!! New fabrics, new designs, same awesome fun Lily things.

Above is some stuff we're going to get into the box going out to Vancouver today, come down to the Main Street shop tomorrow to try out the striped Simple Tee and the new Keith Skirt!

PLAID PLAID PLAID PLAID PLAID PLAID PLAID PLAID

I really love plaid.

Harmony turning that plaid fabric into drool-worthy dresses. One for me please!

Smoking Lily Home: There's no place like it, but it's good to get away

2011-06-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Times Square (In case you didn't guess) This photo looks like I Google Image searched for Times Square and this is what popped up. I swear I took this myself.

My two best friends of all time moved away from Victoria, one right after the other, coming on a year now. They are off doing really cool things like living in Teaticket (aww so cute), Massachusetts doing research at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, and living in Hamilton, Ontario (now cooler thanks to Claire living there!) getting a Master's degree at McMaster University. Claire and her boyfriend were having some visitors who were New York bound, so of course Zoe and I were informed and plans were made.

This road is just minutes away by bike from Zoe's house. SO GORGEOUS (that's Cape Cod for you). I biked around here and took the ferry to Martha's Vineyard. Sigh. Sigh.... It was amazing.

Teaticket is about an hour and a half drive from Boston, and Boston is only a bus ride away from New York, so the next thing you know, the girls were reunited! I had the good fortune of being able to first to see what Zoe was up to in and around Cape Cod and Boston. Then, along with her and her boyfriend, we headed down to New York to meet up with the other six. It was a grand affair filled with good people, good sights, good food and awesome memories.

Paul Revere (he did that famous "The English are coming" thing). This is in Boston, of course. We followed the "Freedom Trail" and generally felt like we needed to do more research on American History.

When in New York I made sure to stop by the Erica Weiner store! We carry this amazing line of jewelry in our Johnson Street and Vancouver stores and I was really excited to go see her store front. There was a woman behind the counter, and after introducing myself she got excited and said that she was Erica and showed me around (it's so great when cool shops can have a mutual appreciation for one another!). I was so glad to have had the chance to meet her in person and to explore her adorable little shop (kind of like our tiny store!). I took a video, but unfortunately it is much too large to fit on our blog. Compressed it looks like a movie shot at the bottom of a murky lake...sadly, until I hone my AV skillz, you will have to make due with these few random photos I took other places.

I have a penchant for mail and objects to do with it... I wish we had cool post office mail boxes like this here! This is the post office in Hyannis, where Kennedy enjoyed vacationing.

Random Photos

2011-06-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

Tonight, after work, a few of us gals visited Steph and met Oliver. He is so cute, and smelled so good. It looks like Smoking Lily has a new model.

Nicole made this beautiful cake and brought it over to Steph's house. It was a rhubarb bundt cake, so delicious. We need to get her to share the recipe. Great job on the decorations too. Very creative Nicole. (Hey--This is Nicole, I came to share my recipe! I used two cups of rhubarb instead of one and a half and it worked fine...check out Mollie Katzen's other recipes too, they are all fantastic and have never failed me!)

I got my hair chopped off yesterday to celebrate the first day of summer.

Hello Victoria! I flew home, via float plane, after a great visit with some family in Vancouver (plus checking out the Main Street shop - love the new displays Glenda and Erin). I took this photo because I like the tree lines in the golf course and I think it would be a great print.

This is a photo of "the blue bridge" at the end of Johnson Street in Victoria. I'd never seen it from this view before.

Picked up this chair at the auction last week. We are going to re-upholster it in the next few weeks.

There you go, a little random, but I thought I would share a little of our lives.

Vancouver Update: Little Girls Dresses

2011-06-21T17:16:00.001-07:00

We have a number of really cute little girls dresses in stores right now. They are light and summery and sweet.

Here is a photo of my niece wearing the Lucy tunic ($46) layered over some fleece to combat the cold Spring air while rocking some summer fashion down at Granville Island.

We also have a cute spaghetti strap dress, the Stanley ($46), in a number of different bright printed fabrics, and one run of a gorgeous puffed sleeve linen dresses ($120). Ready to simplify the morning conundrum of what to wear - just a dress! easy peasy!

Some Customer Love

2011-06-20T14:02:00.000-07:00

Just got a great photo from a fave customer who sent it in after seeing Renee's shout out to see what people were up to in Smoking Lily this summer.

"I'm in Paris for the summer, and a friend snapped this in the Belleville neighbourhood on a street known for graffiti art. I always travel with my Smoking Lily! Kate (from Portland)"

Merci beaucoup Kate, the octopus print goes well with the graphic wall. Ayez un grand été.

Victoria Stores Update: Bamboo Pyatt Tunic and Turquoise Mt. Pleasant

2011-06-20T10:48:00.001-07:00

This week in the stores we have some great new colours and fabrics in the Pyatt Tunic and the Mt. Pleasant top.

The Pyatt Tunic is now available in Clay in 100% Bamboo. Perfect for layering, this fabric is like nothing else. The taffetta like material is silky smooth with a shiny finish and crisp texture, breathable and light as air. The tunic features a front-back reversible scoop neckline and pockets with a print.

Clay Pyatt Tunic $92 with matching Silk Obi

Shallow scoop neckline and Squirrel print on pocket

We also have a new colour in the Mt. Pleasant top as well this week. Featuring an all-over repeating Canoe print, this Turquoise top is perfect for wearing if you're going out on the water to do a little paddling.

Turquoise Mt. Pleasant with new Canoe print $85

Riding Bikes and Car-Free Day!

2011-06-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today is Car-Free Day in Vancouver, with simultaneous activities on The Drive, Main Street, Denman, and in Kits. Main Street looks like it's going to have a focus on music, with several stages and some good bands lined up to play outside of Neptune Records and Red Cat.

....And what better way to get to Car-Free Day than on a bike! I just wanted to share this dorky snap I took of myself after riding to work on Friday to show everyone how awesome the Cypress Skirt is for cycling: swishy, comfortable, and long enough you don't have to worry about flashing anyone while dismounting!

Happy Car-Free (and Father's) Day, everyone!

Babyheads

2011-06-19T11:04:00.000-07:00

That is funny Korinne! I had uploaded some photos and thought of putting up a post about the awesome cement sculptures on Friday too! Guess I might as well share them now.

As Korinne mentioned all of these small sculptures are made of cement and are garden friendly. They also make great paperweights if your desk is next to a window - we'll finally be opening the windows wide to let in some warm fresh air.

Lily Inspiration: Baby Heads

2011-06-17T15:02:00.001-07:00

Baby heads have arrived at all Smoking Lily locations. They come in small, medium, large and rhino (my favourite). Also, in the shipment: hands, little birds and a wall plaque. Made from concrete, these heavy heads could work indoors (large heads work great as bookends) or outdoors.

Rhino Head $24, Large Head $22

Single Hand $62, Small Chickadee $8

Wall plaque $52

Two Hands $72, Small Head $8

Tester Hatchet Print

2011-06-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

Just printed a tester of a new print. I'm trying to decide if I should re-burn the screen or not. There are tiny little flaws in the resolution that I could fix or I could re-do the whole thing. It is after six, I'll sleep on it and decide tomorrow.

Canada Post and the Portage Show

2011-06-16T17:52:00.000-07:00

As we all know Canada Post is currently out of service. What you may not know is that Smoking Lily will be hosting an art show featuring local artist Timothy Wilson Hoey at the Milkman's Daughter on Canada Day. As this is going to be a big shindig, we wanted to invite all sorts of VIPs. First of course are our wonderful customers, but we also are sending out the word to Members of Parliament, our MLA, the Governor General, City Councillors, and the Mayor to name a few. Of course, half the invites were dropped into a mailbox (crossing my fingers on that one) and the other half will just have to be delivered by hand. So if you happen to see a Lily out and about with envelopes in tow, you'll have the inside scoop.

Studio Update: We Are Hiring

2011-06-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

Rachael is looking for someone to be part of our studio team. We need someone to keep the studio tidy, to help with production, to run errands and more. It would be great if you have sewing knowledge so you could help out in the cutting room, and if you like to clean and you are organized we will love you forever. If you want to work in a creative environment and need a part time job, send Rachael a resume with a cover letter and email it to info@smokinglily.com.