I'm moving...to a new blog...well not completely. Let me back up. As you may know I've been diligently working on creating a business outlet that under which I could offer interior and event styling services as well as a curated shop featuring lifestyle products inspired by the business brand. Well, I'm happy to report that I'm in the final stages of creating the website with my developer, who by the way should be sainted for her patience in dealing with me and my multitude of questions and request.
In a few weeks, the site for One Third Tribal (that's the name of my company guys!) goes live and I'll need to focus more of my energy on networking and developing a client base. I'll also be managing the company blog and sourcing product for the shop, which I hope to launch in late Spring. With that being said I will have less time to update here. So for those of you loyal readers (are there any of you still out there) who've enjoyed my witty repartee and creative stylings I invite you to continue to walk with me on my journey as "Jane of all trades." I'll still add posts here from time to time but feel free to follow my design and styling posts here and "like" me here.
Thank you so much for reading and supporting and I hope to see you on the other side! Oh, here's the website: www.onethirdtribal.com. It'll be up by March 15, 2012 (is that the Ides of March? Hope that's a good omen!)
Later for now!
-Nik
musings of a crafty, urbanite...here I'll share my notions on Design, Decor, Eats, Style, Travel & the adventures of re-invention & starting a business. life is as crazy [good] as it looks...
3.06.2012
2.12.2012
Luminous! Lighting for the Home
Perhaps inspired to find a little light of my own to shine after hearing of the untimely passing of the incomparable, Whitney Houston, I picked up two beautiful lamps today from Ed's Salvage. One of them is bronze and has vintage feel while the other I was drawn to because of the robin's egg blue colored base. They both work well for mood lighting in my space.
1.24.2012
Wish List: Paris Flea
Though it is on my bucket list of things to do before I make my exit, I have not yet had the immense pleasure of a visit to Paris nor any of it's notable merchant markets. Living vicariously through the buyers at 1stdibs I was able to collect an array of covetable items to share.
Judging by the sheer size and assortment I would say that a trip to Paris Flea could potentially mean absolute doom for my meager financials, but I'd be willing to take the risk and test the theory-have passport, will travel!
Judging by the sheer size and assortment I would say that a trip to Paris Flea could potentially mean absolute doom for my meager financials, but I'd be willing to take the risk and test the theory-have passport, will travel!
1.20.2012
Dark, Twisted, Fantasy inspired Home Decor
I love Pinterest! If you don't Pinterest or have never heard of it, you need to get on it. Now. No, seriously.
I'm reading Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe, and I think the melancholy tone of the story has me thinking aphotic, and obscure thoughts, hence today's Pinterest board. It's sounds scarier than it is. The late, incomparable Alexander McQueen taught us that there is beauty in what some perceive as dark and morose. Beauty is all about perspective. These alluring images conjured thoughts of luxury, comfort, and yes, a dash of mystery...
Have a look: http://pinterest.com/OneThirdTRIBAL/one-third-tribal-style-file-dark-twisted-fantasy/
I'm reading Fall of the House of Usher by Edgar Allen Poe, and I think the melancholy tone of the story has me thinking aphotic, and obscure thoughts, hence today's Pinterest board. It's sounds scarier than it is. The late, incomparable Alexander McQueen taught us that there is beauty in what some perceive as dark and morose. Beauty is all about perspective. These alluring images conjured thoughts of luxury, comfort, and yes, a dash of mystery...
Have a look: http://pinterest.com/OneThirdTRIBAL/one-third-tribal-style-file-dark-twisted-fantasy/
1.15.2012
what my eyes beheld: Weekend Edition
One of the things I enjoy most is merchandising and creating displays for shops and boutiques. A dynamic display not only gets customers shopping, what retailers love, but also offers potential customers and passers-by to discover product through provocative arrangements.
This weekend while working with one of my retail clients, I put together a visual "how to" for creating a casual look with formal attire.
This weekend while working with one of my retail clients, I put together a visual "how to" for creating a casual look with formal attire.
NIGHT TO DAY
props & apparel provided by: Ed's Salvage Co. 
1.12.2012
the Glitz & the Glam
While searching for inspiration for window treatments I happened upon an Etsy shop offering supplies for various creative endeavors. The shop owner sent me this pic to help me envision how luxe metallic window hangings might uplift a room.
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| Ball Chain shop on Etsy |
1.04.2012
Welcome to 2012
Hoping all of you had a healthy and happy holiday season! I am beyond excited about 2012. Sure, 2011 was a pretty good year full of the life's traditional ups and downs (a few more downs for me personally), but there is something about the promise of a fresh start that comes with a New Year that just get's me going!
New year brings new things, right? NYE 2011 found me bartending a fab party at the Morelli Gallery in Jersey City. Made a few bucks and a few new friends - good times had by all, bring it on 2012!
I know there's a lot of crazy talk about a cataclysmic event that will end the world this year (no, really, it's crazy). I happen to believe that 2012 will be forth tremendous change and an end to life as we know it, which is not so bad considering the lack of love, the economy, and greed we are currently seeing on a global level. Either way, no one, of course, really knows what this year will bring, but I'm going to hop on the Positivity Bus and hope for the best.
There's nothing like re-mixing your reality with clean slate of a whole new year. Have you thought about what you want to do differently this year? Maybe it's time to start your business, or show yourself a little more love.
Here are a few of my 2012 Intentions:
New year brings new things, right? NYE 2011 found me bartending a fab party at the Morelli Gallery in Jersey City. Made a few bucks and a few new friends - good times had by all, bring it on 2012!
I know there's a lot of crazy talk about a cataclysmic event that will end the world this year (no, really, it's crazy). I happen to believe that 2012 will be forth tremendous change and an end to life as we know it, which is not so bad considering the lack of love, the economy, and greed we are currently seeing on a global level. Either way, no one, of course, really knows what this year will bring, but I'm going to hop on the Positivity Bus and hope for the best.
"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."
There's nothing like re-mixing your reality with clean slate of a whole new year. Have you thought about what you want to do differently this year? Maybe it's time to start your business, or show yourself a little more love.
Here are a few of my 2012 Intentions:
- Write a business plan for my interior design/creative solutions company (just typing these words is making my hyperventilate a little-who invented business plans anyway)
- Be more consistent with a healthy diet and exercise
- save. Save. SAVE!
- Volunteer with at least 2 organizations in 2012
- Launch the website for my interior design/creative solutions company
- Stop buying denim/chambray shirts (i have like 5 of them, guys... it might be a problem)
- Collaborate more
- Meditate at least once/day
- Put up shelves in my kitchen
12.22.2011
Creating a "Brandifesto"
Yes. "Brandifesto," it's a real word, well I mean people are really using it to describe something that exists, whether Webster acknowledges it or not is another story, but I digress.
Anyway, my research on marketing and branding has led me to this concept. "Brandifesto" is actually a brand's Manifesto. Manifesto is a public declaration of intentions, opinions, objectives, or motives. According to PRCouture it's a very powerful marketing tool that can raise awareness about a new site. This tool can, when used properly and genuinely, can help connect brands to like-minded consumers and increase brand recognition and promotion. A great example would be the Holstee Manifesto, which has been shared with hundreds of thousands across the world and helped the brand promote their "kickass products." A "Brandifesto", is an inspired, creative way of telling the world who you are and what you do. As a creative, seeking to launch a start-up in a highly competitive industry this tool is a must have for my brand.
So, here's the skinny on the brand as I realize I've been a little "mum's the word" on the whole project. I'm building a lifestyle creative solutions company, specializing in space transformation for home, retail/wholesale space, and events. The brand is a celebration of diversity, the love of vintage goods, items with a story, and beauty in it's many forms with modern, edgy and global styling.
I started this company in the hopes to show that the experience of beautifully designed spaces, products and spaces is not something reserved only for the very wealthy. There are thousands of affordable ways to create and recreate environments and goods. This brand is a celebration of the beauty in the world as we (collective beings), as individuals see it, and reflective of our individual gifts.
What do you think? Sound like the type of company you'd want to do business with? Well let me know. One of the values I hope to promote with this project is collaboration. What values, beliefs and motives are important to you when deciding to making a purchase?
Anyway, my research on marketing and branding has led me to this concept. "Brandifesto" is actually a brand's Manifesto. Manifesto is a public declaration of intentions, opinions, objectives, or motives. According to PRCouture it's a very powerful marketing tool that can raise awareness about a new site. This tool can, when used properly and genuinely, can help connect brands to like-minded consumers and increase brand recognition and promotion. A great example would be the Holstee Manifesto, which has been shared with hundreds of thousands across the world and helped the brand promote their "kickass products." A "Brandifesto", is an inspired, creative way of telling the world who you are and what you do. As a creative, seeking to launch a start-up in a highly competitive industry this tool is a must have for my brand.
So, here's the skinny on the brand as I realize I've been a little "mum's the word" on the whole project. I'm building a lifestyle creative solutions company, specializing in space transformation for home, retail/wholesale space, and events. The brand is a celebration of diversity, the love of vintage goods, items with a story, and beauty in it's many forms with modern, edgy and global styling.
 |
| via graphichunt.com |
I started this company in the hopes to show that the experience of beautifully designed spaces, products and spaces is not something reserved only for the very wealthy. There are thousands of affordable ways to create and recreate environments and goods. This brand is a celebration of the beauty in the world as we (collective beings), as individuals see it, and reflective of our individual gifts.
What do you think? Sound like the type of company you'd want to do business with? Well let me know. One of the values I hope to promote with this project is collaboration. What values, beliefs and motives are important to you when deciding to making a purchase?
12.21.2011
Beige is Boring
Today I came across this room and immediately added to my "Colors" board on Pinterest, by the way if you don't have a Pinterest account you may want to look into it. It's the internet's answer to the traditional board. Do you Pinterest?
Color is everything and is everywhere right now. Notice the orange Hermes boxes on the mirrored console? I love when non-traditional items are used in clever ways to add visual interest. Are you pondering any dramatic color moves in your space? Let's talk about it.
Color is everything and is everywhere right now. Notice the orange Hermes boxes on the mirrored console? I love when non-traditional items are used in clever ways to add visual interest. Are you pondering any dramatic color moves in your space? Let's talk about it.
12.20.2011
I Love It When A Plan Comes Together..
I'm breathing a huge sigh of relief after turning in the last of my final projects for the semester last weekend (Get it!). Ahh, time for a little rest and relaxation you say? Nope. Not for this goal-crazy, design gal. You know what they say about failing to plan... My list of To Do's for the Winter Break looks like this:
Nik's Winter Break To Do List
-Complete business plan for design business (hope to do a big reveal on the name soon!)
-Write Content for Website Start writing website content
-Paint and refinish a cabinet ($20 flea market find), a dresser, and a salvaged picture frame (stay tuned-should be post worthy)
-Get a little social and attend a few events where people actually mingle and interact (social networking is no substitute for human contact-let me tell you)
-Trademark new logo
-Create social media pages for new biz
-Update this blog
Last weekend I took some pics with my brand spankin' new Canon T3i Dslr (I'm giving you the excited, crazy, electronic sales guy face right now, because the journey to purchasing this thing was epic and I just love it)! These are pics that will be used within my website. Since my company will be focused on styling and decor and the transformation of spaces in homes, retail environments and event spaces, incredible website pictures are key. Nothing sells services relating to pretty things like pretty pictures, right? I was like the Paparazzi up in that piece! Check me out. You like??
Nik's Winter Break To Do List
-Complete business plan for design business (hope to do a big reveal on the name soon!)
-
-Paint and refinish a cabinet ($20 flea market find), a dresser, and a salvaged picture frame (stay tuned-should be post worthy)
-Get a little social and attend a few events where people actually mingle and interact (social networking is no substitute for human contact-let me tell you)
-Trademark new logo
-Create social media pages for new biz
-Update this blog
Last weekend I took some pics with my brand spankin' new Canon T3i Dslr (I'm giving you the excited, crazy, electronic sales guy face right now, because the journey to purchasing this thing was epic and I just love it)! These are pics that will be used within my website. Since my company will be focused on styling and decor and the transformation of spaces in homes, retail environments and event spaces, incredible website pictures are key. Nothing sells services relating to pretty things like pretty pictures, right? I was like the Paparazzi up in that piece! Check me out. You like??
11.26.2011
Footwear Color Pop
Hope you all had enjoyed your holiday! If you're like me your nursing a Turkey hangover and thinking of creative ways to inject turkey into next week's meals so you can get back to eating turkey-free food ASAP!
As with most holidays, I spent this Thanksgiving with my Mom and my Dad (picture the movie "Four Christmases" only Thanksgiving with slightly less drama, but just as much comedy). One thing I noticed as I was preparing for mad dash up and down the New Jersey Turnpike, was that my shoe game has gotten a little drab. Don't get me wrong, I have a bunch of cute shoes that I adore, but my collection lacks color. I've been asleep at the wheel, guys. I literally have no less than 10 pairs of black shoes.
Well, the first step in addressing a problem is admitting you have one. My name is Nik, and I'm addicted to purchasing black shoes. Next step? When you know better, do better. The easiest and most budget friendly way to add color to your wardrobe is via accessories, so I did a little internet shopping today and picked up these babies from Lorishoes.com. Yes, I am aware that they contain a lot of black. Baby steps.
Here are a few other fly kicks I came across during my search. The red boots? Yes, they are giving me all sorts of fever! Do tell, have you developed an addition to "drab" when it comes to your wardrobe? How do you add pops of color to your looks? Enjoy!
As with most holidays, I spent this Thanksgiving with my Mom and my Dad (picture the movie "Four Christmases" only Thanksgiving with slightly less drama, but just as much comedy). One thing I noticed as I was preparing for mad dash up and down the New Jersey Turnpike, was that my shoe game has gotten a little drab. Don't get me wrong, I have a bunch of cute shoes that I adore, but my collection lacks color. I've been asleep at the wheel, guys. I literally have no less than 10 pairs of black shoes.
Well, the first step in addressing a problem is admitting you have one. My name is Nik, and I'm addicted to purchasing black shoes. Next step? When you know better, do better. The easiest and most budget friendly way to add color to your wardrobe is via accessories, so I did a little internet shopping today and picked up these babies from Lorishoes.com. Yes, I am aware that they contain a lot of black. Baby steps.
Here are a few other fly kicks I came across during my search. The red boots? Yes, they are giving me all sorts of fever! Do tell, have you developed an addition to "drab" when it comes to your wardrobe? How do you add pops of color to your looks? Enjoy!
11.18.2011
Ed's Salvage Co.
Last weekend I had a chance to visit (and shop) at Ed's Salvage Co., in Jersey City, NJ. A quaint, shop nestled in a multi-level, brown stone style house, in the McGinley Square section. ESC's offers a curated inventory of unique, vintage and salvage goods. Salvage artifacts and antiques from estate sales, and homes that have been remolded or demolished making this shop a bit atypical as vintage shops go.
I chatted the eponymous owner, (while I eagerly and simultaneously explored/shopped) Ed, about the store, his inventory of Victrolas, and the future of the ESC brand.
1. About Ed: He's warm and uber friendly. Born and bred in Jersey City he's connected to the surrounding community, which probably explains his ability to get his hands on some of the phenomenal items he sells. Ed runs the store using the formula of "people and community getting connected" as part of his business strategy and judging by his network and the success of the store, I'd say it's working!
2. "Ed's Exchange": As part of that formula ESC will launch Ed's Exchange in the near future, to promote and sell the work and goods made by local artists and artisans. This is an admirable outreach method as getting noticed can be tough for up and coming creatives.
3. "Turn on the old Victrola!" During my visit there were at least 4 of them on hand. These coveted, antique music makers are totally refurbished, (thanks to Ed's connects) to play vinyl and old school records (Record connoisseurs call them by numbers like 78's or 50's or something. Clearly I'm no connoisseur.). I actually fell in love with the yellow one pictured below. I have a bunch records and nothing to play them on, (yes, the quandary here is obvious- not sure why I've never addressed it before) so between the novelty, the color and the fact that it plays records AND the radio (bonus) I'm seriously considering the $300 price tag. No, seriously.
4. Consider Consignment: ESC is also a consignment shop, which means if you've got apparel or valuable pieces that you are looking to unload and want to make a few dollars off of, you may want to talk to Ed. It also means that his inventory is not strictly vintage, especially where apparel is concerned, which is also good because unfortunately, vintage is not for everyone.
5. ESC Events: So, in addition to the boutique Ed's Salvage Co. hosts parties and events throughout the year (Ed is serious about connecting with community and making his business fun, ok?). Most recently the space was opened for a Halloween Masquerade party. Check out the ESC Facebook and Twitter pages for updates on future events.
I chatted the eponymous owner, (while I eagerly and simultaneously explored/shopped) Ed, about the store, his inventory of Victrolas, and the future of the ESC brand.
Here's the skinny:
1. About Ed: He's warm and uber friendly. Born and bred in Jersey City he's connected to the surrounding community, which probably explains his ability to get his hands on some of the phenomenal items he sells. Ed runs the store using the formula of "people and community getting connected" as part of his business strategy and judging by his network and the success of the store, I'd say it's working!
2. "Ed's Exchange": As part of that formula ESC will launch Ed's Exchange in the near future, to promote and sell the work and goods made by local artists and artisans. This is an admirable outreach method as getting noticed can be tough for up and coming creatives.
3. "Turn on the old Victrola!" During my visit there were at least 4 of them on hand. These coveted, antique music makers are totally refurbished, (thanks to Ed's connects) to play vinyl and old school records (Record connoisseurs call them by numbers like 78's or 50's or something. Clearly I'm no connoisseur.). I actually fell in love with the yellow one pictured below. I have a bunch records and nothing to play them on, (yes, the quandary here is obvious- not sure why I've never addressed it before) so between the novelty, the color and the fact that it plays records AND the radio (bonus) I'm seriously considering the $300 price tag. No, seriously.
5. ESC Events: So, in addition to the boutique Ed's Salvage Co. hosts parties and events throughout the year (Ed is serious about connecting with community and making his business fun, ok?). Most recently the space was opened for a Halloween Masquerade party. Check out the ESC Facebook and Twitter pages for updates on future events.
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