There are a few recognizable companies that offer the home shopping experience that have been around for decades. Here are a few that you may not have considered in the past that have now branched into the home décor arena.
Tupperware
Tupperware parties were all the rage back in my younger days. The array of storage and serving solutions for the home are outstanding and are a real asset to any home. A cluttered kitchen will detract from any decorating you do, so it's a good idea to keep your storage solutions in mind. A Tupperware home party is a fun way to get together, shop and streamline your kitchen. I checked out their website recently and they now have lovely cookware sets available as well as the old standbys, which are fun and colourful. www.tupperware.ca
PartyLite
The PartyLite experience fills the senses -- literally. Lovely scented candles are a popular part of this company's offering, but the ranges of decorative candle holders will add tonnes of drama to your home décor. They are constantly adding new design lines to their accessories, so there's always something new to look at. From African-inspired candle holders and sconces to a line of Thai-inspired holders and accessories, there is something for every taste. Shopping with friends at a home party is a fun way to test the scents of the candles as well as getting a hands-on look at many of the accessories available. With winter coming, there's nothing cosier on a dark, cold night than having a room filled with exotic candle holders burning scents like coconut milk chocolate or orchid and pink peppercorn. Yum! www.partylite.com
Avon
Avon has been around forever, it seems. Great products brought right to your door. Avon used to carry the odd home décor product, like collectible perfume bottles and decanters, but now they have taken a step into the realm of home décor. Avon Expressions is their fairly new line, offering linens, furniture slipcovers, accent lamps and even small furniture items like ottomans and accent tables. Though Avon doesn't normally sell through home parties, you can purchase items through a sales representative/brochure, and the items are usually delivered right to your home. They also offer shopping online now as well, so check out their website: www.avon.ca for info on the home décor products.
Stampin' Up!
Stampin' Up! is a company that has a new line of home décor products that has spun off their successful rubber-stamp business. The rubber-stamp line is for the scrapbooker or for those who prefer to make their own greeting cards and such. Their new line, called Décor Elements, offers a range of self-adhesive vinyl art (and lettering) for walls, mirrors, or any smooth, flat surface of the home. They are sort of like appliqués, but are removable and reusable. Our feature photo shows how that little extra touch adds interest and dimension to a space. These would be great in a home office, small business or any room in the home. I love the changeability and versatility of this product, because you can change it on a whim. These products are available through a sales representative at a home party. Check out their website for more info: www.stampinup.com
I'm sure there are more direct-sales (home-party) companies out there, but you get the idea. It's nice to have yet another option for home décor shopping. Each company offers its own unique products that each have intrinsic value for the home decorator. Aside from that, shopping at a party with food and friends is never a bad idea!
Happy home shopping!
Am I nuts?
I received an e-mail from a reader about the Back to School article that ran on Aug. 31, 2008. I had mentioned packing a "nut-mix snack" for the kids, which was a faux pas on my part. The reader informed me that most schools and day cares do not allow nut products due to allergies. I concur. Thanks for the correction. My apologies for the oversight.
Connieoliver@shaw.ca
