Father's Day

1. Homemade Gin Kit
$48 at Pickwick's Mercantile
Often the best gift we can give our parents is time and this homemade gin kit is something you can do (and enjoy) together. Nearly everything you need to make your own gin is in the box, from funnels and jars to botanical blend and juniper berries. Simply purchase a middle of the shelf vodka and get making! Even better, once you have your final product (in only 36 hours!), Homemade Gin Kit has some great cocktail recipes you can whip up to celebrate.

2.Sextant by David Barrie
$25.99 at Pickwick's Mercantile
Dads instill a sense of wonder in us and teach us how to explore, and this book speaks to that inheritance. I'm personally looking forward to reading Sextant and you can expect a review in the future, but I'll let the professional critics speak for now:

"Barrie's writing is exhilarating and suffused with a sense of adventure. A fascinating read." (Financial Times)

"As lovingly and painstakingly constructed as the navigators' once irreplaceable talisman, this exquisite book is a hymn to a now vanishing feature of maritime life- a finely-chased reminder of just how much we owe to that one small piece of apparatus- its verniers and lenses kept secure in a mahogany box, closed by a hasp of brass." (Simon Winchester)

3. Whiskey Disks by Hammerstone's
$30 at Pickwick's Mercantile
More than just a unique and practical gift, these 100% natural soapstone whiskey disks are harvested directly from the earth in Chocorua, New Hampshire and are the handiwork of a father-son team. These smooth stones will not dilute your whiskey, scratch your glasses, or over-chill the beverage. And as there are four in a set, you can enjoy the wonderful effect together.

4. Truman Razor by Harry's
$10 at Pickwick's Mercantile
Harry's shaving products are not only tearing up the blogs and wowing the critics, they are a go-to for the son or daughter on a budget. Designed in New York and with a German steel precision engineered blade, the Harry's razor (or set for only $22) is quality at a quality cost. Don't let Dad do the $1 disposables anymore. He's a classy guy. He deserves a classy tool.

5. Campfire Incense by Juniper Ridge
$10 at Pickwick's Mercantile
As a child of the White Mountains, some of my dearest memories include long-reaching shadows around the fire and the natural cologne of wood-smoke suffusing the folds in my father's flannels. Another great budget find, this Juniper Ridge product is made from wild-gathered elements and has 20 incense sticks that really do recreate the most redolent of summer campfires. Grab an incense holder for three dollars at our fellow downtown business, Ganesh!

6. Beard Oil by Prospector Co.
$28 at Pickwick's Mercantile 
Prospector Co. makes all-natural grooming products right here in the United States. This Beard Oil is potent stuff, a couple of drops do the job, so this little TSA-friendly bottle will last a deceptively long time. The woodsy, neutral scent is pleasant and light and will keep Dad smelling fresh, even while the natural oils condition follicles and moisturize the skin beneath.

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May your Father's Day include hugs, good food, gratitude, and many embarrassing tales from childhood. An enormous thank you to all of the fathers out there who have lent us the strength of their arms and hearts!

From "Vader's Little Princess" by Jeffrey Brown

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Can't come in? 

 Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com

and we will make sure your goodies come to your doorstep!

Mother's Day Gift Set

I often tell people that if I end up half the woman my mother is, then I will have accomplished something worthy of taking great pride in. And, while many will bemoan the rise of the Hallmark holiday, I cannot help but feel that taking the time to dedicate a full day to the appreciation of the women who raised us, is a celebration long overdue. Here, I have created a small gift guide, inspired by Mama Thistle and all of the other brave souls that have given so much of themselves to see us succeed.

Mother's Day Gift Set

1. At Last: White Petal & Rice Flower Handcream by Lollia $25 at Lady Pickwick's

Lollia has so many lovely scented creams, but Mama Thistle loves yellow, so it felt right to pick At Last. The packaging is gorgeous, but it is really only a compliment for the quality of the moisturizer, not a substitute. I have been using these sweet creams through the week and they work well and smell delightful and fresh!

2. Rosa Wax Tablets by Santa Maria Novella

$34 at Pickwick's Mercantile

I've gushed about Santa Maria Novella before and you can read some of that HERE, but I'll make a long story short. These wax tablets are hand-made by monks in Florence, Italy, in the same way that they have been made for over 400 years. Not only is their scent delicate and delicious, it can last decades! Come in and we will write out the story of the monastery and its products in a fine hand, so that you can include it with your gift.  

3. The Unofficial Downton Abbey Cookbook

$25 at Pickwick's Mercantile

I feel comfortable recommending this cookbook because my family is eagerly cooking its way through it. I gave this as a Christmas gift to Mama Thistle and everything from these fun pages has been delicious so far. Want to sweeten the deal? Tuck a paper certificate between the pages that guarantees an evening of your time to cook something from the book with your mother. That's really all they truly want, isn't it? Some time.

4. Lavender Bath Salts by Hand-in-Hand

$25 at Pickwick's Mercantile

As all mamas know, relaxation is a rare and necessary thing, and as your mother has spent her life advocating for you, why not gift her with a something from a company that stands up for others? These lavender bath salts look and smell beautiful and come in a great quantity for the price. They are also made completely in the United States, but what I am most impressed by is that for each bottle you purchase, Hand-in-Hand donates one bar of soap to a child in a developing nation and purchases 50 square feet of rain forest! 

5. Pearls of Wisdom collection by Lucky Feather

$15 at Pickwick's Mercantile

Pearls of wisdom seems a fitting theme for a mother's day gift. Jewelry is a sweet gift because it offers up a reminder each time it is put on, and necklaces are even better for mother's day as they are something she can wear close to the heart.

I hope that you are all getting much needed downtime with the lovely lady in your life. May your mother/daughter - mother/son relationship look more like a friendship with the passage of time.

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Can't come in? 

 Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com

and we will make sure your goodies come to your doorstep (or mum's)!

Derek Warburton Visit

Derek Warburton rocking the supple Annabel Ingall tote in saddle, Rebecca Ray wrap bracelet, and his new Innouitoosh scarf!

We passed a truly delightful Saturday in Pickwick's Mercantile this past weekend, as we welcomed a visit from friend and celebrity stylist, Derek Warburton. He swept through the store searching for special items to toss in that ever-active traveling bag, rummaging expertly through all of the unexpected fabulous pieces that fill our shop's every nook and cranny. He certainly uncovered some gems- here is just a preview of what filled those well-stuffed shopping bags when he finally made his way back to the bricks.

Derek Warburton Visit

Aqaba: Jewels of Blu- $80

Jewels of Blu gets serious love on Fragrantica for its unique and gorgeous blend of uncommon notes. Elements such as peach, apricot, Egyptian Jasmine, and Tibetan Musk bring you back to the prosperous Mediterranean coastlines of yore- riddled with fruit trees dripping with fragrant treasure and great stone structures inlaid with gold and precious jewels.

Etat Libre d'Orange: Afternoon of a Faun - $80

This spicy, balsamic scent pulls no punches when it comes to celebrating its herbal heritage. Bringing to mind the pungent halo of crushed flowers and lingering autumn that occurs at the edge of a wood, it features bergamot, pepper, cinnamon, orris root, leather, and then interrupts their heady rampage with the brazen unfurling of rose and jasmine. Debussy knows what I'm talking about.

Santa Maria Novella Anti-Wrinkle Eye Countour Oil - $__

This gel is packed with ginseng, grape seed oil, and echinacea, all grown without the use of pesticides and does absolute wonders for puffiness. With all of those early flights, Derek can attest to how wonderful and useful such a product can be for the sleepless traveler!

Skin Apothecary Soy Body Whip - $20

I was excited to see Derek take this home, because I sing the wonders of this body whip all day long. A healthy dose of Vitamin C, soy, and coconut oil makes an enormous difference for even the most tortured patches of dry skin and, for the cost, it works wonders.

Innouitoosh Scarf - $___

Innouitoosh is a Parisian line and their scarves are incredible. It is difficult to impart it through text- you can really only get the effect by coming in and unfolding and feeling these materials yourself. Exquisite quality with immortal designs!

Bronte, Derek, and Thistle!
Loving that Janessa Leone hat- can I wear it next?

Parting was sweet sorrow from our chic friend, but we look forward to getting our continued style fix from his many spots on television! See you soon, Derek- thank you for bringing the sunshine on a day that may have otherwise meant rain!

Derek and Julep, getting silly!

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Can't come in for yourself? 

 Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com

and we will make sure your goodies come to your doorstep!

Spring Summoning

Spring Summoning by pickwickstyle

If you're anything like us, you wake up with your fingers crossed for spring. In an effort to summon the season, I've been dwelling on springy, sunny things in the shop. Here is a handful of them to aid your own day-dreaming!

Barr Co. White Flower Candle - $24

I was glad to bury the musks and woodsy scents of fall and winter in favor of this light, fresh candle. It burns merrily away on my bureau. I look forward to the days (oh, so near!) when I can open the windows and have the breeze toss this lovely scent about. The Hobnail candles are wonderful- soy, all-natural, and they burn at least 100 hours- can't beat it!

The Complete Novels of Jane Austen - $30

Something about the stories of Jane Austen fits the season perfectly. The roses of Pemberley, cotton skirts swinging low in the dewy grass, fresh white handkerchiefs, the rolling English countryside- I've just talked myself into wanting a Regency vacation! Curl up with this tome in the window seat and look up every so often to watch the flowers grow.

Emma Bridgewater Woodpecker Mug - $36

This porcelain mug has been hand-painted in Stoke-on-Trent, England. You can count on its sweet greens and yellows to never fade as the years wear-on. Pair it with a nice herbal tea- I think it's high-time for chamomile, lavender, and fruit loose-leaf to make it back into the rotation.

"Library of Flowers" Field & Flowers Eau de Parfum - $48

This perfume is the perfect transition scent, with its apricot top note, honey blossom heart, and wildflower mix at the base! Light, sweet, clean, and made in America.

"Northern Lights" Taper in New Leaf - $2

It's amazing how effective changing up a few household colors can be as a mood lifter. Mix these spring green tapers with a dusky rose or coral for a refreshing table setting.

"Besame" Portrait Pink Lipstick - $20

I'm a merlot lip girl, but even I'm feeling the pull towards pretty in pink shades as the days struggle to rise above freezing and this one is knock-out. Paired with a light cotton sweater in white or a buttery yellow? Ooh, the style seed has been planted. You may just see something very similar to those color combos on this blog pretty soon.

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If you see anything you love but can't come in to purchase, send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com and let's chat! I would love to help get it to your door!

Valentine's Day Gift Guide

Valentine's Day Gift Guide by pickwickstyle showing what to wear with leather handbags

Love comes in all shapes and sizes and, although every day is a celebration of the folks that make our lives lovelier, Valentine's Day is an opportunity to thank and appreciate the ones that make our hearts beat a little faster. Here at Pickwick's, we've put together our top picks for the romantic side of the holiday!

Lady Pickwick’s Pick: Peony Pillar Candle - $34

                This soy wax candle has a floral scent so light that it won’t drive the gentleman of the house from the room, but will set the mood for any comfortable space. Set this between the tapers for your candlelight dinner to present it as a surprise gift. And don’t worry about stepping on the toes of the master decorator; the beautiful pale pink design on the reusable glass will fit in anywhere.

Bronte’s Pick: Annabel Ingall “Coco” in Saddle - $410

                This beautiful leather bag is really closer to a merlot than a saddle, in my opinion, but no matter the color, it cannot be denied that it is the perfect purse. Annabel Ingall is an Australian designer at the forefront of sleek and practical design using high quality materials and colors that we can’t get over. Your lady love will use this piece for years to come and love it so much that she might retire her other bags!

Thistle’s Pick: Halcyon Days Salamander Hinge Bracelet in Gold & Ivory - $120

                Jewelry is the most classic of all Valentine’s Day Gift options. If you are going the traditional route, this piece is ideal- sleek and understated, it will go with nearly everything she owns and is of heirloom quality. Handmade in England, this brass bracelet will last a lifetime.

Julep’s Pick: Acqua di Colonia “Tobacco” Cologne - $125

                Perfume is a brave and perfect choice for a Valentine’s Day gift. As it’s such a personal item, it says you know her well enough to choose a scent for her to live in and that you are confident enough to make that call. We have only recently started carrying this selection from the Santa Maria Novella apothecary in Florence, Italy, but everyone in the shop is already thoroughly enamored.  This unisex scent, a sweet tobacco with hints of amber and vanilla, is ideal for the confident woman in your life.

Brian's Pick: Le Dame Aux Camelias by Jardins D'Ecrivains - $150

      This cologne was one of Lady Pickwick's discoveries, stumbled upon in a Paris boutique. Originally designed to be worn to bed *wink*, the notes includes spicy cardamom, orange blossom, and sweet rose with warm underpinnings of musk and juniper wood. Sweet with a hint of the seductress- does that describe your darling? As a bonus, she'll love the old world charm of the atomizer!

I hope you're all gearing up for the happiest of Valentine's Days!

"A loving heart is the truest wisdom."

- Charles Dickens

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Can't come in to snag these treats for your special someones? 

That's alright! Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com to order

and we will make sure they arrive, wrapped and ready on your doorstep!

A Very Merry Pickwick's Gift Guide: Volume III

Gift Guide 3 by pickwickstyle

Last minute shoppers, we hear your cries and we are here for you until the very end! This final gift guide covers everything from essentials to stocking stuffers and there is still time to get in and make these pieces a part of your holiday giving! Clockwise, starting from the upper left-hand corner:

Lady Pickwick's Pick: Swing Design Lacquer Jewelry Box in Soft Pink - $130

     This three tier jewelry box was originally created by a group of brilliant design minds in Concord, Massachusetts and it is as timeless as it is beautiful. So immortal is its sleek lacquered look and pull out trays that the group's boxes were actually featured on Oprah's list of favorite things in 2012! We also carry a single-tier matching box for $70! Give them as a set or alone, with a single piece of glittering jewelry on the inside for her to stumble upon later?

Bronte's Pick: Joyeux Noel Elf Soap - $5

     Not only does this sweet little soap smell great, it is all natural and has a cheery elf stamped upon it to keep the holiday spirit by your sink-side for some time to come! This is one of our favorite stocking stuffers, brought to you by the company that makes the legendary "Egg White Soap". 

Jody's Pick: Baby Alpaca Blanket - $220

     These blankets are an example of what I like to call an "ultimate gift"- something that combines beautiful form and superior function. In options of light blue, cream, or saddle brown, imagine someone you love wrapping up in this throw-sized ultra-soft blanket. Soft enough for a movie night, a lay-down under the stars, or to swaddle a little one, these fine blankets will beat off many passing seasons of New England cold!

Brian's Pick - Aqaba Men - $85

     Perfume communities laud this perfume for being long lasting and possessing of a classic, desirable scent. Woody and green to its core, Miriam Mirani's Aqaba Men is also packed with such tasty overtones as cognac, Amalfi lemon, and leather. This would be the perfect step-up for that gentleman you know who is on the verge of outgrowing the tacky cologne baths of youth!

Thistle's Pick - All the Time in the World: A Book of Hours by Jessica Kerwin Jenkins - $27.95

     I could go on about this book and its companion, The Encyclopedia of the Exquisite, for hours, but I will abstain. All the Time in the World draws its inspiration from medieval books of hours, which imparted the most desirable and fascinating ways in which to spend one's time. A quote from Ms. Jenkin's website sums the impact of the beautiful little book as I never could:

All the Time in the World revives forgotten treasures, while inspiring a passion for good living in the present, and suggesting some bold and wonderful ways to spend whatever time we’ve got left.

Perfect for the eccentric, history-buff, or lord or lady out of time in the family!

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This brings our gift guide series to a close, but I'm so addicted to Polyvore now that you may yet some themed sets popping up of a sudden! Have the merriest of holidays, dear readers- may you pass it with good friends, good food, and good cheer. From everyone here at Pickwick's, may the days to come be merry and bright!

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Can't come in to snag these treats for your special someones? 

That's alright! Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com to order

and we will make sure they arrive, wrapped and ready on your doorstep!

A Very Merry Pickwick's Gift Guide: Volume II

Gift Guide 2 by pickwickstyle

The big day approaches! Today and tomorrow we will have our final two gift guides- great to keep in mind if you've anyone left on your list (and personal experience tells me that you just might). Our staff helps you along with personal picks from around the store! Clockwise, starting from the upper left hand corner:

Bronte's Pick: Santa Maria Novella Melograno (Pomegranate) Perfume & Soap - $125, $18

      Did you know that many scholars believe that the forbidden fruit of the biblical tale was, in fact, a pomegranate? The monks of Santa Maria Novella have successfully captured the unique, powdery fresh scent of this decadent fruit for hundreds of years and bottle it here for your individual use! The matching triple-milled soap has been hand-made and packaged with care!

Lady Pickwick's Pick: Annabell Ingall Tote in "Buff"

     Our new Annabell Ingall totes are absolutely to die for- incredible quality and a flexible appearance that goes with every outfit, dressed up or down! This buff color is classic and workable and a favorite of Madame Pickwick, so you know it's chic.

Brian's Pick: Royal Apothic's Plains of Thistle - $55

     This soft scent is gentle but hard to forget. With notes including mint julep, white pepper, peony, and cedar wood, it is the perfect perfume to convert the newcomer to scent or the immortal perfume skeptic. Brian, one of our gentlemen on staff, is particularly fond of its unassuming and unique nature- if that tells you anything about the potential wearer!

Thistle's Pick: Line-A-Day Journal - $15.95

     I know, my pick should have been "Plains of Thistle", but I can't get over these little Line-A-Day journals. We have a pale pink mother's edition,  a classically bound Jane Austen themed option, the pictured blue standard, and an interactive Question/Answer offering. Each one has the date at the top of the page, followed by 5 years. It's a wonderful gift, particularly for someone in a period of great change or trial. They can see how far they've come!

Jodi's Pick: Charmeuse Pillow Case in Queen - $80

     These 100% silk pillow cases have more to them than just providing a wonderful and luxurious night's rest. Among their many powers? The ability to reduce facial wrinkles by caring for your skin, the fact that they add body and shine to hair by smoothing it at the cuticle level, and the reduction of hair loss and breakage! We often have customers tell us that once they started tucking in with silk beneath their heads, they never went back.

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Can't come in to snag these treats for your special someones? 

That's alright! Send me an e-mail at thistlejones@gmail.com to order

and we will make sure they arrive, wrapped and ready on your doorstep!