Top Seven Things You Need for Your Beach Bag

Season has died down and that means the beaches are free once again (well, Siesta Key will always be packed, but that's because it's THE most beautiful beach in America).

Are you heading out to the beach this weekend? Then don't forget these top seven items: 

1. Sun Hat - Of course you've put on SPF to prevent premature wrinkles and cancer, but as an extra measure many dermatologists recommend wearing a wide brim hat to shade your face. Store owner Jenean cannot stop raving about these hats from Lakhay's in Los Angeles. A perfect size they also are super flexible and will bend into whichever style you like. The owner of Lakhay's is based in L.A. but has strong ties to Indonesia. Many of his products are handmade from relatives still living in the South Pacific. Only $22.00

2. Sarong- Speaking of Lakhay's, another must have beach item is their sarong. You can wrap it into a beautiful dress, sexy swim cover up or fun summer shirt. Check out the video below for some ideas. Only $30.00

3. Lip Balm - When you have chapped lips it's hard to focus on anything- not your breezy summer read or the soft crashes of the waves. And nothing dries lips out faster than salty air and the scorching sun. Protect yours with a ball of Cosa Nova lip balm. Available in cute animal prints and cake shapes they're the most fun way to keep your lips soft when out in the sun. Only $3.25

4. Lavender Lemonade- This recipe passed along to us from a customer is possibly the most refreshing drink for a hot summer's day. Lavender adds an unexpected but delicious touch to this perfect beach beverage. It's the perfect way to test out our culinary lavender ($14.00 a jar).

5. Wire Free Entertainment- Don't be one of those people ruining the serenity of the beach by blaring your stereo. Instead take advantage of nature as free entertainment. Bring a notebook for to-do lists, short stories, drawings or even origami. Many artists find the beach inspiring: Grab a Cavallini Italian notebook and unlock your inner genius. Starting at $10.00

6. Headband- Keep strands in place in the summer breeze with these wonderful headbands from (who else?) Lakhay's. Super soft, stretchy and fashionable, they'll help you make a statement while keeping your cool. Starting at $5.25

7. Beach Bag- And just where do you think you're going to keep all of this stuff? Our Oil Cloth bags are super spacious. Their smooth finish means sand will wipe right off. Yet another fashionable way to have fun in the sun. Starting at $23.50.

Mother's Day Gifts for Under $50

Okay, getting a little higher in price now but your mom's worth it, right? Check out the fantastic Mother's Day Gift ideas we have for under $50 (most are hovering around $30).

Top Mother's Day Gifts for $50 (and Under)

Deruta Mugs ($27-$34 depending on size and design)

Like all of our Deruta items these mugs are dishwasher and oven safe. Forget the knockoffs, these authentic, hand painted pieces from the original factory in Deruta, Italy. Is Mom an art or history buff? She'll love the "Raphaelite" design (below). That little figure is said to have first been depicted by the legendary artist Raphael. 

Oil Cloth Market/Beach Bags ($27)

Each of these over-sized totes has been on a journey. The fabric is made in Europe and then imported stateside where it's sewn into the large bags you see above. As the name suggests, each bag also has a special "oil" coating (it feels like acrylic) that make these the absolute best beach bags. Sand get everywhere? Just wipe it off!

Polish Teapot (Staring at $48)

Store owner Jenean has tested these beautiful, hand painted tea pots at home. According to her they keep tea hot without making the outside of the pot scalding, poor pleasantly and serve as instant attention-getters. Did your mom ditch java beans for tea bags? Than these beautiful pieces are the perfect gift.