Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix 2012

This weekend is the Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Fesitval. It’s my first summer here, but I’ve heard it’s kind of a big deal. We all know that Sarasota is a sleepy coastal town in the summer so take this advantage to have fun while you can.

Events You Can’t Miss This Weekend:

1. Festival Parade of Boats

All competing boats will be making their way down Main Street starting at 7. Music, racers, and if it’s anything like usual parades, tons of freebies.

2. Block Party

After the parade stick around to party into the night. Vendors and food carts will take over Main Street starting at 5pm. Local darlings The Garbage Men and Chameleon will be providing live music in J.D. Hammel Park.

3. Powerboats by the Bay

Sounds just like a block party only this one will be at Centennial Park. All of the festival food and fun for free from 10 am to 9 pm. A perfect price for this economy.

 

4. Miss Super Boat Bikini Contest

If you happen to be at Powerboats by the Bay on Saturday stop by for the fine American tradition of objectifying women in the Grand Prix Bikini Contest from 3-4:30. Hey, no hatin’ here. If you’ve got it, flaunt it.

 

5. Super Boat Grand Prix

After all the fuss, head to Lido Beach to see the boats in action. There are two heats starting at 11am and 1pm. Bring your spf and settle in for a day by the waves. 

Sarasota Movie Review: First Position

I am in love with Burn's Court Cinemas.

The theater is quaint and old fashioned looking without feeling old. I don't get serenaded by models on jet skis trying to sell me Fanta while I wait for the movie to begin. The small theater, with it's stage light in the far corner and mere two rows of seating creates a cozy atmosphere. I feel like I'm stepping back to a time when movies weren't available on demand. You went to the theater not because you were bored but because you want to experience art. 

This week I felt extra "artsy" as I took in First Position, a documentary about the Youth America Grand Prix ballet competition. Each year 5000 ballet students world wide will compete for only 300 spots in the final competition. The film follows six of them to see what it really takes to make a career in ballet. 

Ballet has fascinated me ever since the very twisted film Black Swan, but I appreciated this film's positive outlook on this very competitive art. While it does show the strenuous schedule required of the young performers it also shows that they each have a true passion to pursue dance. Joan Sebastian, a teen from Colombia, was put in training by his mother to keep him off the streets. Another film subject, 14-year-old Michaela, was inspired by a photo of a ballerina during her time in a Sierra Leone orphanage and vowed to one day become as beautiful and graceful as the woman she saw on a magazine cover. 

The Youth America Grand Prix awards ballet contracts and scholarships to the best performers. Rebecca, a high school senior featured in the film, is banking on the competition to bring her a career instead of going to college. It's a life changing moment for all of the featured competitors. It was inspiring to watch each of their journey's from very different backgrounds to one prestigious competition. 

Burn's Court frequently swaps out it's films, so don't miss your chance to see this wonderful documentary. You can find showtimes here. 

A History of Provencale Fabrics

I was going to write a post on the history of tablecloths in France, but Jenean isn't here to spellcheck my French. Instead I thought this video provided a good summary. Enjoy!

PS: Wanting a handcrafted tablecloth from Provence of your own? Visit our store to our selection of Provencale fabrics.

An Afternoon In Burns Court

This afternoon I took some time to explore Burns Square. A newbie to Sarasota (the 24th of May will mark six months!) my roommate was quick to fill me in that this was the "artsy" quarter of Sarasota. Burns Court, which houses the local independent cinema, was first built when John Ringling rolled into town to house the little people who performed in his circus. The houses were built smaller and today still resemble the beautiful architecture of the turn of the century.

Main Street is always full of action and has everything from toy stores to fine dining. But on a quiet afternoon Burns Square is perfect for a quiet stroll in search of treasures.

I started at Starflower Essentials, an all organic skin care line made with the freshest of ingredients. The sales woman, Vera, was warm and welcoming and if there was chance the stores products could give me her glowing skin I was all aboard! I walked away with the Rose Almond Exfoliant and Mask. It's made with essential oils and crushed almonds and promises to "leave skin moisturized and silky smooth". I'll have to keep you updated on the results but I can't wait to try it at home tonight before bed.

My next stop was Delight. I love this store because what isn't a chic item from a designer label (for an unbelievable price) is made from re-purposed fabric. There's a beautiful bohemian dress made of sheer fabric and scarves I've had my eye on for a while. A selection of the store's items is also available at the Farmer's Market each weekend.

I had just a few moments left to make it to my shift at European Focus but I had to check out the Tortoise & Pearl. This store is simply exquisite. It had everything from gorgeous vintage tea cups to hand crafted jewelry. I am definitely going back to pick up some of the vintage decor pieces but with only a few minutes I barely had time to grab a steel heart and wings wall hanging and a hand drawn birthday card for my sister.

Main Street is the perfect shopping destination if you're looking for a gift, new outfit or something to eat. But occasionally it's nice to get out and meet the neighbors. Once you've stopped by to tell us hello wander down orange and check out what the quaint stores of Burns Square have to offer.

We'll be waiting at 1469 Main Street to hear what you thought. And as always, at www.efvillageshop.com.

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.

The History of Murano Glass

While also home to Michelangelo and Leonardo Da Vinci, when it comes to art Italy thinks beyond the brush. Since the early 13^th century Murano, a small island in the Adriatic Sea, has served as the home to glass artisans recognized throughout the world.  

Glass starts out as a mixture of siliceous sand, soda, lime and potassium and has to be heated to 3000 degrees Fahrenheit in order to be molded. In the early days of glass making it soon became apparent that Rome’s wooden buildings did not make a good setting for glass factories. Fires were a frequent hazard in the populous city and as a result operations were moved to the island.

During Murano’s glory days glass makers were considered part of the upper class. They could marry nobles, carry swords and their crimes were overlooked by lawmakers. On the downside, they also were prohibited from leaving the island out of fear of the Murano glass making secrets getting out. Those who were caught often faced getting their hand chopped off! These strict regulations worked. Murano contued to dominate the glass industry until the 18^th century when competing artisans with new techniques started to become prominent in Northern Europe.

Today glass can now be found at every home goods store and there’s no secret to creating mirrors (prime Murano merchandise once upon a time). But the artisans of Murano are still at work creating beautiful pieces of jewelry, dishes, and more. After decades of persistence, the island is now back on top of the glass market.

We have beautiful Murano glass rings at fantastic prices – One for $10 or two $15. Bracelets made with the avventurina technique are also available (so named because of chance mixing of copper flakes with glass that led to it's discovery).

We look forward to seeing you soon both in store and at www.efvillageshop.com.

Sarasota Mothers Day Gifts for $20 (and Under)

Mother's Day this year is May 13. Do you have something special planned for the most important woman in your life? I was going to send my mom to Broadway to see Darren Criss in "How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying"...except he left the show four months ago. Left with three weeks to find the perfect gift (that doesn't require a plane ticket) I turn to the trusted European Focus Village. For the next few weeks we'll feature Mother's Day gifts for every budget. It's the perfect place to find a gift in Sarasota will ship anywhere in the country.

Top Mother's Day Gifts for $20 (and Under)

Handmade Soy Flakes - $6 each

Just one tablespoon of these soy flakes (which are hand crafted in Sarasota, FL) will release scent for eight hours when heated. Lemon Verbena is a delicious scent that reminds me of the sweetness of the Lemon Chalet Cremes from the Girl Scouts. Plumerian Lei is like walking into a spring garden. The hot plate burners are also available for $20.00. 

Devi Watches - $20 each

Brightly colored watches are the must have accessory for summer! In addition to the bold colors we also carry a line of bangle watches that have been very popular among the women of Sarasota. A beautiful accessory your mother will love. 

Sticky Notes - $12.50

Remember when you were young and your mom used to leave notes in your lunch? Now you can repay the favor with these delightful sticky notes from Cavallini & Co. Each pack breaks apart for several different sizes of adhesive note pads. 

Stop in and see us from 11-5 Monday-Saturday. Or shop online at www.efvillageshop.com.

Polish Wine Stoppers Back in Stock!

For anyone who loves polish pottery our display of tea pots, trivets, cream and sugar sets and even decorative crosses is a dream come true. Now to add to your perfect European kitchen are polish wine stoppers, handpainted in Bolestawiec.

Made of ceramic and natural cork these stoppers are great hostess gifts or even something to treat yourself with. 

Of course many wine bottles already come with a cork stopper (though an urban legend that wine cork is endangered has recently lead to an increase in rubber or even -ugh- twist off caps). But our polish wine stoppers are much easier to reseal and add a decorative touch.

What might you do with those extra wine corks you might ask? Save them up for some wine cork crafts.

Here's one idea:

Or perhaps you could make your own "cork" board: 

And if you're feeling truly ambitious:

Even if you aren't handy with a hot glue gun, that's no excuse not exchange your regular wine cork with one of our handpainted Polish ones. Just 13.95 at our Main Street Store.

As always, we welcome you to visit us at www.efvillageshop.com.

Want 10% Off? Follow Us On Twitter!

Now that Jim and Jenean have explored every corner of the physical world they're now navigating the mysterious terrain of social media. We've set up Facebook and Twitter accounts for the Village and want you to follow us!

Why might you be want to be our online friend? Periodically we'll keep you updated about sales, special events and new items. You might even catch a picture of Jim and Jenean in Europe buying from our vendors. 

And just for following us we'll give you 10% off! 

All you have to do is follow us on Twitter, then stop by and mention to Maureen, Lynda, or Stephanie that you're a follower. They'll check it against our verified list and give you 10% off. Super easy!

Putumayo: Your Taste-Tester of International Music

As an infamously indecisive person I love to order flights of wine when dining out. The simple choice of white or red can be difficult enough without adding in the decision of which wine-making region I want to test. A little taste of all the local tapas bar has to offer is perfect.

The selection of Putumayo music at the Village is just as tricky to choose from. A truly global music company, these CDs capture the flavor of everywhere from Ireland to New Orleans. And just like a flight of wine each compilation gives you a little taste of the music scene in these regions.

The entire Putumayo collection is terrific, but if I had to choose some favorites, I’d go with the following:

1. Music from the Winelands

Of course I have to keep with the wine theme for my first selection. This CD has a song from every wine producing region you can think of: France and California, of course, but also Spain, Greece and Argentina. The tracks are perfect for a relaxing evening at home with friends chatting over vino.

2. Rumba Flamenco

This lively mix of tunes puts you in touch with musicians from as far as Spain and as close as Los Angeles. The eclectic guitar paired with smooth vocals makes you wonder why modern radio bothers with auto tune. Dancing is not required…but most likely will occur once you catch on to the rhythm of Spain.

3. Acoustic France (pairs well with Paris) 

Imagine if Jason Mraz or John Mayer released tracks in French. Acoustic France shows that singer/songwriters are just as carefree in Europe as they are stateside. With a little bit of high school French you’ll be able to enjoy the lighthearted nature of the lyrics. A bit more traditional, “Paris” is also a great, jazzy offering, and "French Cafe" is a consistent best-seller.

4. A New Groove

One of the more modern sounding of the Putumayo CDs, a new groove features some of the best electronic artists from around the world. You may recognize Thievery Corporation, a popular band featured in the soundtracks to several movies and TV shows. I even heard a track played at a chic downtown Sarasota lounge. This CD takes from all over Europe, a true Putumayo taste tester. 

To sample more of the collection, visit www.putumayo.com or come to the listening station in our store. 

We're available, as always, 24/7 at www.efvillageshop.com