June

When we think of June at Artisans, we always think of "Dads and Grads." And, of course, Artisans is currently full of all sorts of great gifts and cards for the father or alumnus in your life.

But this year, June also has us thinking of...Weddings! (Could it be because two lovely Artisans ladies have been/will be wed in 2010? Perhaps, perhaps.) The next time you're invited to a wedding, break the habit of a predictable registry selection and consider a hand crafted gift, made in the United States. Consider a Treestump cutting board paired with a cook book from Bookshop Santa Cruz, or Rolf wine glasses and bottle of wine made with grapes grown in the Santa Cruz mountains from Vinocruz.

Finally, if you are getting married, check out our jewelery selection. We carry classic pearl sets from Violet Drury, as well as modern and fun earrings and necklaces for brides and bridesmaids. Ritch & Co. rings have also become very popular as wedding sets or wedding rings for men. We can order a ring to fit you, so don't be shy about trying them on!

Whether you're celebrating dads, grads, newly weds, or the sunshine, Artisans wishes you a happy June!

Who, Being Loved, Is Poor?

Wrote our friend Oscar Wilde.

Thoughtful sentiment aside, some of us might be feeling a bit of a pinch in our wallets as Valentine's Day approaches this year. Fortunately, Artisans offers a wide range of Valentine gifts, from the affordable to the extravagant.

Why not amuse your love with a card from Cara Scissoria? This long time Artisans card line features witty takes on politics and current events, with seasonal variations celebrating Christmas, Halloween, Hanukkah, and, of course, Valentine's Day.

We also offer valentines from Papaya!, Peculiar Pair Press, and You Send Me. And, if you know where to look, you might find some beautiful valentines hand-made by Artisans owner and artist in her own right Linnaea Holgers.

While you're searching for the perfect gift for your sweetheart, be sure to head to the back of the store and bid on one of the items offered in our Hearts for the Arts silent auction. This fundraiser features prints from David Fleming and Doug Ross, posters by Steve Hosmer, original paintings from Paul Fortis and Marie Gabrielle, and much more. Be sure to come in soon as bidding ends, you guessed it, February 14th!

Happy Valentine's Day!