New Year's Resolutions.

 The Motivated Type

It's coming down to that time again: resolutions and goals for the fresh new year are being pondered over and written down, promises to ourselves of how we are going to be better going forward.

The most popular resolutions according to USA.gov are as follows:

• Lose Weight
• Volunteer to Help Others
• Quit Smoking
• Get a Better Education
• Get a Better Job
• Save Money
• Get Fit
• Eat Healthy Food
• Manage Stress
• Manage Debt
• Take a Trip
• Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
• Drink Less Alcohol

All admirable goals, and all achievable with a little hard work.  Do any of these make your list for 2015 in some shape or form?  We'd love to hear what your resolutions and goals are for the coming year!

2015 Calendars.

2015 is almost here- can you believe it?  This year has completely flown by and we've had such an amazing year!  We took a peek through a few of our local friends' Etsy shops to find the perfect calendar options for the coming year.  If you are calendar-less, or still need a gift, here are some fantastic options from Connecticut businesses:

Queen Vanna Creations

These wooden block perpetual calendars are awesome because they never go out of date- since there is no year on them, they can be used over and over.  It's super useful because kids can physically change the date to see that it is a different number if they are working on that concept.  These calendars can sit on a desk or a shelf or a counter, and they make awesome teacher gifts.

RiverDog Prints

Dog lover?  Know a dog lover?  This dog-meets-birth-flower calendar comes complete with a small clipboard, making it perfect and easy to hang on an office wall or other small space.  Each month brings you a new pup to enjoy.

freckle paper

Still looking for a gift for the guy in your life?  Check out this calendar called "A Year of Go", with a different object of motion on each month.  Hangable or frameable, these beautiful watercolor illustrations will keep you smiling all year.

three little birds studio

This frameable calendar with sleek, clean designs would be perfect to hang in any room of your house, or they can be featured on a small easel and placed on a tabletop.  Fun and functional art that offers a pop of color.

Letter C Design

Each page of this hanging calendar is a soft, stylish print, and the large day blocks make it perfect for scheduling.  Hang it in your office or kitchen to keep track of appointments and events.

Made in the Shea'd

This desktop calendar is an eco-friendly choice, being printed on recycled paper.  The bold designs will motivate you to be your best self each month.

Here's to a fabulous 2015!  Which one would you choose?

Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts for All. + Giveaway.

We hope you've been enjoying our Holiday Gift Guide this week! We've covered the house and home, the men, the kids and babies, and the ladies.  Our last day is dedicated to presenting gifts for anyone on your list.  This is also the last day to enter our fabulous giveaway- three lucky winners will receive and Etsy gift card from The Collective to shop with us!  Read on:

Start Talking Vintage

Nothing rings in the holidays like a favorite carol, hymn, or off-key sing-along with good friends. Start Talking Vintage creates a nifty new spin on this timeless element of the holiday season. Using reclaimed vintage sheet music, these ornaments are great for the music lover in all of us. Whether you hang them from the tree, the ceiling, or even the doorknob, these festive little ornaments fuse together the worlds of handmade crafts and vintage decorations

 RiverDog Prints

For gifts for the animal lover, RiverDog Prints can't be beat.  This Bulldog Stationery Gift Set includes a box of eight folded notes, eight round gift tags tied with cotton twine, and a small notepad with "from the chair of..." printed in modern text.  Just don't forget the dog treats for the recipient's closest companion.

Smirking Goddess

Smirking Goddess Studio offers affordable stocking stuffers to entertain family, friends and co-workers, featuring home-brewed wit, like these humorous refrigerator magnets.  Offering up levity on just about every subject, you're sure to find the perfect gift here.

 Treefort Naturals

There is not much that smells better than handmade soap, and Treefort Naturals's bars are no exception.  Your choice of four bars of all-natural cold-process soap comes packaged and ready to gift in a bamboo basket tied with twine. What's even better, this gift can be sent directly to recipient with a personalized gift note by request.

Evelyn Pelati

Hand fabricated of hammered copper, this cuff bracelet by Evelyn Pelati has an Arts and Crafts-era influence. The focal of the cuff is a copper plaque in a geometric design, attached with tiny copper wire rivets. The edges of the cuff are etched in a geometric pattern.  And because it is self-sizing, it can be a great gift for a man or a woman.

Mystic Knotwork

Mystic Knotwork represents three generations of craftsmanship on the coast of Connecticut.  Their Monkey's Fist keychain would make a perfect gift for any sailor or lover of all things nautical. Monkey’s Fists are a traditional knot used as weight at the end of a heaving line. The heaving line is used to pull the dock line to the pier.  This miniature version is crafted to hold your keys.

We hope we've been able to provide you with some awesome ideas for those special people on your holiday list, and we hope you'll check out all of our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops.

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Not only are we excited to show off our products to you for the holiday season, but we want you to shop!  The Nutmeg Collective has THREE Etsy gift cards up for grabs for three lucky winners who will get to shop our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops and pick up a special gift or two.  One winner will receive a $50 gift card, and two others will receive a $25 gift card each!  Simply enter through the Rafflecopter below at any point this week.  The giveaway ends Friday, December 5 at midnight and the winner will be chosen shortly thereafter.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: For Her. + A Giveaway.

Just two days left of our Holiday Gift Guide! This week we've been visiting some of our favorite member shops to help those of you who still have shopping to do find the perfect item for gifting. So far we had goods for house and home, the men, and the kids and babies.  Tomorrow we'll provide you with some great general gifting options.

Today, though, is for the ladies:

Petite Maus

The classic look of pearls meet the edgy world of hammered mixed metals to create this beautiful pair of rustic-chic earrings.  These trend-forward modern yet rustic earrings from Petite Maus have luminous freshwater pearls of varying sizes perfectly accenting hammered and wrapped metalwork and would be fabulous for any occasion.

Mango Tree Ceramics

This adorable little notebook paper print ceramic dish from Mango Tree Ceramics would be useful in so many different ways: a ring dish on your sink or night table, a tea bag holder in the kitchen, and earring holder for your dresser, or just as a lovely little token to sit on a shelf or table.

Milo and Molly

Wrap yourself in warmth with an infinity scarf from Milo and Molly.  Lightweight and extra soft, yet still cozy on your neck, each jersey knit scarf can loop several times around the neck, and because it is a continuous circle it will not slip off.  The perfect accent for any outfit, and wearable through multiple seasons.

Trinkets by Tracy

This unique and beautiful bracelet by Trinkets by Tracy is done in brilliant blue and gold. The large blue beads are carved acrylic, the carved parts being filled in with gold. Sparkling Swarovski crystals accent the larger beads perfectly. With a slight Moroccan feel to it, this bracelet would be a lovely bright spot of color in your winter wardrobe.

Glitter and Bold

Give her a truly personalized gift with this hand-painted custom name mug from Glitter and Bold.  The writing is available in eight colors on a 14-ounce white mug, and she will love seeing her name on the side in this fun, swirling script.

Made in the Shea'd 

As we welcome in the new year, consider this nature-themed desk calendar from Made in the Shea'd.  Each month features nature-inspired art, each with a hand-lettered quote about the world around us.  The clear plastic jewel case that it arrives in opens and folds over to become the display easel, making this a practical and adorable decorative item for your desk, table, dresser, or computer stand.

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Not only are we excited to show off our products to you for the holiday season, but we want you to shop!  The Nutmeg Collective has THREE Etsy gift cards up for grabs for three lucky winners who will get to shop our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops and pick up a special gift or two.  One winner will receive a $50 gift card, and two others will receive a $25 gift card each!  Simply enter through the Rafflecopter below at any point this week.  The giveaway ends Friday, December 5 at midnight and the winner will be chosen shortly thereafter.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: Babies and Kids. + A Giveaway!

Day 3 of the Holiday Gift Guide is here! This week we will be visiting some of our favorite member shops to help those of you who still have shopping to do find the perfect item for gifting. On Monday we had goods for house and home, yesterday we focused on the men, and later this week we have items for the ladies, as well as gifts for anyone, anytime.

Today focuses on the babies and kids- definitely some of the cutest stuff out there.

 tiny mack

You will love the baby and toddler clothing that tiny mack has to offer.  For example, this handmade organic baby gown/sleeper with red and white stripes and colorblocked trim. This baby essential has built-in mitts that fold over to keep newborns warm and scratch-free, a twist-free elastic opening at the bottom for easy diaper changes, and a classic lap tee/envelope style neckline that easily slips over baby's head -- no snaps or buttons to fuss with. A playful and practical unisex look for new babies. 

Patti Murphy Boutique

For a nautical themed room or for those who live by the sea, this shoreline alphabet print is perfect for any child's room.  Using seacoast elements to form the letters of the alphabet, the bright colors that Patti Murphy Boutique uses will add a touch of whimsy to the space.

Baby Boies

Every little one needs a blanket to cuddle up in, and this striped one by Baby Boies is perfect for doing just that.  Soft and plush, this hand-knit blanket is made for wrapping up and snuggling, and you can customize the colors of the stripes to match with baby's nursery or big kid's favorite colors.

Whimsy Ones

Know someone with twins on the way?  Whimsy Ones has a variety of onesies to welcome the pair into the world, including this sweet "Buy One, Get One Free" package of two, which comes in colors to suit the pairing.

Little Fingers Gifts

Every child needs their own buddy, and Little Fingers Gifts can provide you with a customized, one-of-a-kind, handmade little goodycritter for your sweet ones!  These animals are made to order and each is designed individually based on what you are looking for, so no two will ever be alike, making it a truly special gift.

Sea Urchin Studio

Teeth are going to come falling out and you need to be ready when they do!  This Lost Tooth Reporting Kit from Sea Urchin Studio will make your big kid feel important and will provide parents with a record of each tooth loss.  Each note pad comes with enough sheets to record each tooth, and it also comes with a certificate to be signed by the Tooth Fairy herself!

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Not only are we excited to show off our products to you for the holiday season, but we want you to shop!  The Nutmeg Collective has THREE Etsy gift cards up for grabs for three lucky winners who will get to shop our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops and pick up a special gift or two.  One winner will receive a $50 gift card, and two others will receive a $25 gift card each!  Simply enter through the Rafflecopter below at any point this week.  The giveaway ends Friday, December 5 at midnight and the winner will be chosen shortly thereafter.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: For Men. + A Giveaway!

The Nutmeg Collective's Holiday Gift Guide continues on! This week we will be visiting some of our favorite member shops to help those of you who still have shopping to do find the perfect item for gifting. We've showed off what we have for house and home yesterday, and we'll have offerings for kids and babies, for the ladies, as well as gifts for anyone, anytime coming in the next few days.

Today we're looking at gifts for men- the often elusive and hard to buy for.  Suggestions for men are always in demand and we have plenty for you:

The Copper Fox

The Copper Fox has some wonderful hand-stamped metal options for the holiday season, including this four-sided bar keychain.  Made of food-grade aluminum, each side can be stamped with the wording of your choice, making it a truly personalized gift.

Pure Naked Soap

For those who hate shaving, or get irritated skin from the process, consider Pure Naked Soap's Shave Soap.  Produced to reduce allergens, they use gluten free products, and rather than using a combination of chemicals to create a slippery lather, this shave soap uses organic and natural oils combined with French green and bentonite clay.

Hartford Prints!

The ladies of Hartford Prints! help represent Connecticut's fine points, one of them being local brew.  For the beer lover, this "Small State, Great Beer" glass would be the perfect gift- perhaps combined with a bottle or two of locally brewed beer.  Sold individually and in sets of four or six.

Rad Dad Tees

If you are a dad, have a dad, or love a dad, then Rad Dad Tees is the place to find the perfect t-shirt for him.  Bold graphics and humorous taglines that are all too true celebrate dadhood and the job of being a good father.  Not only are these shirts completely cool, but a portion of the proceeds are donated to charity.

Queen Vanna Creations

Instead of a page-a-day desk calendar, how about something a little more interactive?  Perpetual calendars from Queen Vanna Creations are made from sturdy wood blocks and meticulously detailed with patterned paper.  Useful year after year, they make for a fun accent for any desk, shelf, or mantel.  Plus, we're partial to the paper airplanes.

BMR.photographs

Local travel enthusiasts will love the photography of BMR.photographs.  Featuring nature scenes and architecture of New England like this Vermont gristmill, these rustic images will add charm to any photo display.

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Not only are we excited to show off our products to you for the holiday season, but we want you to shop!  The Nutmeg Collective has THREE Etsy gift cards up for grabs for three lucky winners who will get to shop our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops and pick up a special gift or two.  One winner will receive a $50 gift card, and two others will receive a $25 gift card each!  Simply enter through the Rafflecopter below at any point this week.  The giveaway ends Friday, December 5 at midnight and the winner will be chosen shortly thereafter.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Gift Guide: House and Home. + A Giveaway!

Welcome to the first day of The Nutmeg Collective's Holiday Gift Guide! This week we will be visiting some of our favorite member shops to help those of you who still have shopping to do find the perfect item for gifting.  We've got offerings for men, for kids and babies, for the ladies, as well as gifts for anyone, anytime.  Check in all week for a different category.

Today we're looking at gifts geared toward the house and home- hostess gifts, newlyweds, the domestic goddess, or even just something for those who love their house and being at home.

Hockman Photography

Original photos by Doug Hockman Photography, these three snowy tree photos make great pieces for Christmas and Holiday decorating!  Mounted on wood blocks, these would sit perfectly on a shelf or mantel, and would be a great gift for anyone who loves the winter season.

Nutmeg Naturals

This all-natural laundry set from Nutmeg Naturals makes a great gift for those who are eco-conscious and those with sensitive skin.  The set includes handmade laundry soap, a set of six wool dryer balls- to replace those dryer sheets!- and a carry bag appropriately printed with a laundry motif.

 Designer Dwellings

From the chic hostess to someone starting out in their own new home, this entertaining set from Designer Dwellings makes a perfect gift.  Bamboo utensils, cutting board, cork trivet, and toaster tongs are hand-painted in your choice of 14 colors- ready to match any color scheme.

The Blue Twig

For vintage elegance, visit The Blue Twig, who offers a curated collection of antique & vintage prints both rare and beautiful.  This vintage Soviet odometer has been matted and framed and is ready to hang.  The historian in your life would appreciate such a well-preserved piece.

Melley Nelson Design

For a truly special gift for those who truly love their home, contact Melley Nelson Design for a custom home portrait.  Available in both black and white and color-shaded, each beloved home is preserved in time, completely hand-sketched and ready for framing.  Those with historical homes would especially appreciate such a thoughtful gift!

Easton Place Designs

For your favorite chef, this fun set of recipe cards from Easton Place Designs would be a great stocking stuffer or gift basket addition.  Each card in this set of twelve shows off a row of colorful stand mixers and offers ample space for your cherished recipes. 

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Not only are we excited to show off our products to you for the holiday season, but we want you to shop!  The Nutmeg Collective has THREE Etsy gift cards up for grabs for three lucky winners who will get to shop our amazing Nutmeg Collective shops and pick up a special gift or two.  One winner will receive a $50 gift card, and two others will receive a $25 gift card each!  Simply enter through the Rafflecopter below at any point this week.  The giveaway ends Friday, December 5 at midnight and the winner will be chosen shortly thereafter.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Holiday Weekend Deals!

Forget the Black Friday crowds- shop The Nutmeg Collective!  Our members are offering some amazing deals and we would love for you to shop with us!

Queen Vanna Creations: Handmade paper crafts and paper crafty things!

Take 30% off all orders (currently listed, excludes shipping), using coupon code SALEWEEKEND14, expires 11/30/14

Petite Maus: unique handmade fine jewelry made with precious metals and genuine gemstones.

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday: Save 15% on purchases of $20 or more using code BLACKFRIDAY14 

Treefort Naturals: handmade all natural soaps, balms & gift sets.

All orders placed on Small Business Saturday will receive a FREE wrapped stocking stuffer soap. No code required. 

Smirking Goddess: home-brewed wit in magnet and pinback form.

You will receive FOUR Dog Licked them Clean magnets for you and family and friends! Only $10.00 (S+H). Find them here. 

Designer Dwellings: stylish home decor and gifts.

Black Friday and Small Business Saturday: Save 20% on purchases of $50 or more using code BLKFRI14

tinymack: cozy, bright handmade playwear for babies and kids.

Black Friday: Receive $10 off purchases of $30 or more using code STAYHOME14

Small Business Saturday and Sunday: Receive free worldwide shipping using code SHOPSMALL14

Cyber Monday: Save 25% on any purchase using code CYBERFUNDAY14

Boxed and Bowed: fun, sparkly party banners and decorations.

Small Business Saturday, Sunday and Cyber Monday: Save 25% on any purchase using code SHOPSMALL14

Sea Glass Designs: elegant jewelry that reflect the dazzling colors and simplicity of the oceans.

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Sunday and Cyber Monday: Save 20% on any purchase using code SMALLBUSINESS

BMR.Photographs: fine art photography.

Buy Two Get One Free, on all “Print on Gatorboard” Sizes (4x6”, 5x7”, 8x10” & 11x14”). Find them here.

2015 Calendars - $33. Find them here.

Buy Two 2015 Calendars, Get $10 off. Find them here.

Free shipping on All Items!

Pure Naked Soap: Handcrafted skincare, small batches, and naked ingredients.

Black Friday: Use code BLACKFRIDAYSOAP for free US shipping off a purchase of $30 or more (international customers can message for $10 off) 

Saturday: Use code ISHOPSMALLBUSINESS for 20% off

Milo and Molly: Handmade modern fabric goods and gifts.

Black Friday through Cyber Monday: Use code SHIPFREE for free US shipping.

The Copper Fox: Fresh, fun, foxy! custom accessories.

Take 30% off on Black Friday using coupon code BLKFRI30.

Trinkets by Tracy: Handmade and vintage jewelry and supplies.

Use coupon code GIFTFRENZY to get $10 off any purchase of $50 or more

Studio St. James: Handcrafted Jewelry and Beads.

Use coupon code HOLIDAYSALE20 for 20% off on each item purchased until midnight 12/1/14

Nutmeg Naturals: Handmade soaps, bath, and home.

Use coupon code SHOPHANDMADE for free U.S. shipping on orders of $25 or more. Code expires December 1, 2014.

Have a wonderful weekend and have fun browsing through our fantastic shops.  

We'll be back next week with our Holiday Gift Guide and a giveaway!

Written by Alonda Baird-Juhasz, owner of Designer Dwellings, who believes in adding color to life. An avid DIYer, sparkle-loving, all things fabulous addict, her shop features bright and fun home decor accessories and gifts. When not in the shop you can find her interior decorating or visual styling events and photo shoots.