Milton Gravy

The Godfather interviews local artist Milton Gravy.
Coming soon to launch the new artist interview series.
Stay awake, this is gonna be good.
Hart by Milton Gravy.

hiphugger

What I like most about hiphugger's bags is not only the sturdiness and fine craftswomanship that goes into each piece, but the originality that makes each bag a unique and interesting work of art. Marcia uses reclaimed fabrics and 'gently used' (in her words) leather belts that give each bag a quality unlike anything else you will throw over your shoulder, or, in my case, stuff full of snacks, a dripping tippy cup and one half of a train set. Each bag has a complete personality with an embedded history. They embody that thing that makes us all so attracted to vintage and antiques, that feeling that with ownership, we are engaging an old friend living in a different era. Our imaginations are free to elaborate upon the tapestry of our beloved treasure, we imagine quirks and dreamscapes. This one I posted reminds me of being 22, driving through the badlands in a floral dress I found at a church rummage sale, barefoot in a cowboy hat. But that is just me. Get your own, see where it takes you. Find a huge selection of hiphugger bags at Ambiance on Higuera in SLO, or click on the photos to link to hiphugger's site.

hiphugger at Ambiance

Amy Bakes Cupcakes

What most impresses me about Amy O'Kane, aka The Peach, aka Amy Bakes Cupcakes, is her uncompromising ability to make anything lovely. She is endowed with the stuff shared by many remarkable women throughout time: the gift of gorgeous that seems to seep from her pores as effortlessly as her glossed smile. The incredible thing to me, is that for a young woman (no need to embellish here, ahem) with two teen-aged sons who are as good as the day is long, she has the chutzpah to start a new business that grew so naturally out of her current endeavor, her label The Peach that features reworked vintage clothing, party favors and adorable hand made bags (I am the proud owner of one, two...FOUR!) But do not be fooled by her demure exterior, Mrs. O'Kane is as much a hustlah' as the boy on the corner. She began in her teens, scouring the swap meet and yard sales with her eldest son, Robin, for great finds that she would take home, and work her magic on, only to be sold again restored and adored into a new and fabulous item. And now, the launch of Amy Bakes Cupcakes that have already have the whole county drooling (myself included! I was lucky enough to be a tester). Find her delicious and adorable cupcakes at the Granada Bistro in SLO, or, click on the photo of the 'Bachelorette Cupcakes' (also by Mz. O'Kane) to link to her website where you can order any flavor under the sun, including vegan & gluten-free! Your guests will worship you for it.