Made by Southern Hands

Southern Living does a great feature 'Made by Southern Hands' which shares information on Southern artists and craftsman. One of my favorite features is this hand blown water carafe by Belnko. Belnko Glass Company, based in West Virginia, has been a family owned and operated company since 1893.  I actually have the carafe from my Grandmother's kitchen and receive more compliments on the piece than anything else. Looking in New York City, one can the item at William-Wayne (Lexington Ave location). William-Wayne also has beautiful housewares and gifts beyond Belnko and is where we found our great collection of mismatched blue and white cereal bowls. You can also find the carafe at Fishs Eddy near Union Square. Fishs Eddy also carries an assortment of china formely used by New York hotels and private clubs. It takes a little digging but there really are some great finds!  Every summer my parents and I visited NYC and each time we stayed at the Cornell Club in midtown. For Christmas a few years back, I was able to find two bread plates formerly used by Cornell Club which made for a Christmas gift of great memories (one can only give so many framed pictures).   Back to the carafe, it comes in a wide variety of colors and makes a fabulous hostess gift. With the holidays coming up, I also have it in mind for my sister-in-law.

Image from Southernliving.com

Another great gift idea found through 'Made by Southern Hands' is this Bloody Mary Mix by Charleston's Fat and Juicy. So far the mix is only carried by retailers in the South but you can order online here or through Southern Connoisseur. I also love Mother Daughter Jewelry based out of Richman, Virginia. You can find the fabulous pieces in New York at Darling. It's always nice to have an item made with love by someone close to home.