« September 2009 | Main | November 2009 »

October 31, 2009

Portraits Last Forever

 

Young Family

Memories Fade, But Portraits Are Forever 
As the year winds down, our studio always winds up for the most important family time of the year- Thanksgiving and the Holidays.  This is the time of the year that most of us sit back and look at all the accomplishments and milestones that we have achieved personally and also our family's growth.   Our baby, Zoe, is already 9 months old. Whitney's missing front teeth have all grown in and she has probably grown at least 2 inches this year and James has moved out of the toddler's section of clothing.  I am sure you can relate.  Procrastination leads to missed opportunities to capture this moment in time.  Don't put it off any longer.  This is the perfect time to get the family together for professional portraits.
Our clients not only cherish the portraits that Danny produces, but also enjoy the experience from start to finish.  Danny Clark Photography will deliver beautiful professional portrait art that you will be proud to display in your home and to share with friends and family.  Don't let another year go by without investing in the beauty and pride that you have for the biggest accomplishment in your life--your family. 
To learn more about Danny Clark Photography, we invite you to call us at the studio or visit our website and blog.  To schedule your portrait session call 713-942-2272.
Memories will fade overtime, but portraits last a lifetime.  

 

Posted by Denise at 08:10 AM |

October 29, 2009

Life as Baby's Mommy

I came across this cartoon this morning and thought that I would share it with all you mommies out there.  As a mom of 3, I can totally relate. (You can see our 3 kiddos in their Halloween costumes in the entry below this...aren't they too cute?) 

Milo, our Chiuahua, makes sure our floors stay free of food.  I highly recommend small dogs for families of small children.  We miss him at dinner time when we come back from a trip on Sunday and he is still at the kennel.  It is not often that I have to clean up the aftermath of the meal on the floor around the highchair.  Good Dog.

Posted by Denise at 08:34 AM |

October 26, 2009

Oh The Insanity!

Mommy is out of town this week and left us all alone Saturday afternoon.  Since then we have discovered the following thing:

1.  Zoe likes to read magazines as long as she gets to eat 1/3 of the cover page.

2.  If the dryer is on, you can stick a garden hose in the outside vent and the water will splash back in your face.

3.  Kids don't let kids take naps.

4.  Its not advised to read a pop-up-book around a 9 month old. 

 

Halloween goodness in the studio is always fun too.

 

 

Posted by danny at 10:17 AM |

October 15, 2009

25% More Money Free!

We are busy getting the studio ready for the Girls Night Out Event on Saturday and wanted to officially announce our Big Sale, which will only be offered to those attending the event.  In honor of the charity of the evening, we are going to have our very own bake sale to benefit the Texas Center for the Missing.  Danny has been baking up a storm and we will have lots of bags of his famous original giant Chocolate Chip Cookies for $5 a bag (value priceless). 

 

We will also be selling $100 Danny Clark Photography Gift Cards for $75.  That's $25 free for every $75 purchase.  

We look forward to seeing you Saturday. 

Posted by Denise at 06:47 PM |

October 14, 2009

Nest & Cot- Girls Night Out Business Highlight

 

If you are expecting or are looking to re-decorate your little one's room, Nest & Cot is a “must” on your to do list.  Located at 2402 Rice Blvd in the Rice Village , this store has everything a baby (and mommy & daddy) needs. 

Sister duo, Whitney Janke and Ramsey Miller opened Nest & Cot in August 2005.  These native Houstonians, and University of Texas graduates, felt there was a need for wonderful, different and unique children’s furniture, bedding and accessories.   Whitney and Ramsey enjoy working together, both bringing a different aspect of business to the table.  Whitney is the creative mind and heart of the business, while Ramsey focuses on public relations and advertising.  “We believe that Nest & Cot provides the best customer service and uniqueness to the baby and youth market that no other store provides in Houston .”  The sisters have made the perfect baby & decor design boutique.  I can't forget to mention Lauren, the store manager.  She has also played a role in the success of Nest & Cot and can answer just about any question regarding the product lines and custom nursery designs and consultations. 

Nest & Cot concentrates on making your baby’s nursery a “dream land” but also provides design services for all walks of life.  From baby, teen, to adulthood, and even empty nest, they can do just about anything on any budget.  You will love their extensive selection of fabrics, accessories and furniture.  One of the most popular linen and bedding lines, which is not only for baby, is the Belle Notte brand.  Many of their room designs will have the delicate florals and soft fabrics of Belle Notte included. When in the store, you’ll even see a few awesome frames and portraits (by Danny Clark!).   Nest & Cot’s exclusive line of furniture is now a national brand.  Each piece in the collection refers to the birds that are found in children’s nursery rhymes.  “The sentiment and care that goes in to each piece stops nothing short of the fairy tale ending.” 

Nest & Cot has the latest and greatest baby items, too!  Soft blankets, even softer plush animals, stroller accessories, baby carriers, and more, line the walls.  Some items that you must have (and they will bring to GNO) are the Lexie Rose Line of cute fashionable infant and toddler car seat covers (above) and Sophie La Girafe.  Sophie is a the perfect baby's first teething and sensory development toy.  We got one for Baby Zoe and she absolutely went gaga over it.  It's shape is perfect for little hands to grasp, it squeaks and it has a very distinct smell for baby.  The store can't keep Sophie on the shelves.  

Their infant clothing is “awwww” worthy.  If you are looking for a baby gift, Whitney and Ramsey have it.  Be-Jeweled pacifiers, silver rattles, mary jane socks and adorable baby crib shoes are just a few. 

It is easy to get caught up in all the baby gift goodness.

Danny surprised me while in the hospital with the best Dwell Diaper bag, but they also carry Bumble Bags and MZ Wallace.  Moms no longer are stuck carrying Disney or Winnie the Pooh character bags.  We can now also be fashionable with our mom purse and accessories.  The coolest new mommy must have is the diaper and wipe bag.  It's perfect when you are just running a few short errands and really all you will need is a diaper change.  They are perfect to keep in the car also.

 

Nest & Cot is our final small business highlight for our Girls Night Out THIS SATURDAY!  Make plans to join us, Whitney & Ramsey and all of our wonderful business owners Saturday, October 17th from 6:00 – 9:00pm.  Be sure to register at www.gnohouston.com and you will be entered to win the grand door prize of the evening.  We can't wait to see you there!

Whitney Janke & Ramsey Miller Nest & Cot

2402 Rice Blvd.

713-429-5246

www.nestandcot.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by Denise at 09:16 PM |

October 12, 2009

Hip Hop Lollipop- Girls Night Out Business Highlight

This is not the first time we have told you about our favorite girlie girl party boutique, Hip Hop Lollipop, but there are always new cool items that Diane finds at market that you have to check out so it's about time you stop by and see what's going on.Hip Hop Lollipop is a girl’s paradise.  Where else can you shop for clothes, jewelry, toys, and have a tea party? Diane Sizemore has always enjoyed throwing parties.  For years, Diane’s friends told her she should go into the party business.  “Everyone always said I should do it for a living and I always said NO.  I never want people's happiness to depend on me.”  Finally, Diane decided to follow her friends’ advice (and passion), and three years ago Hip Hop Lollipop was born.  Hip Hop Lollipop is in the heart of West University, just across the street from West U Elementary. 

The store is fun and inviting.  Diane and her friendly “hip” staff are always there to help you find the perfect something you are looking for.  You will find the hottest fashions, fun gifts and the coolest items on the market. You will find everything from baby gifts (the must give baby gift- the Itzbeen), little girls fun fashions and mommies stuff too.

 

Hip Hop Lollipop specializes in children's clothing, the coolest jewelry and accessories.  But you will also find bags and backpacks, lunch kits, novelty items and other gifts.  The best sellers are bottle cap necklaces, candy headbands, kooky pens and all things peace.  

 

I have found that Hip Hop Lollipop is the perfect little girl's gift shop.  When Whitney has a birthday party to attend, I know that Diane will have exactly what every little girl wants..like a doorbell for their bedroom or a cute patterned overnight bag, especially for those slumber parties. 

 

 

There is also a special spot in the store just for us “older” girls.  Diane has an eye for fashion.  Her tops, bottoms, and dresses are current and cute!  And invitations!  Diane has a large selection of card stock that is personalized for your fabulous party.  

 

Speaking of parties…the back of Hip Hop Lollipop is where you’ll find the real fun!  You’re little girl can host all of her friends and have a blast dressing up, putting on make-up, painting nails, and more.  Diane has racks of tulle, glitter and plenty of glam to throw the perfect party.  Party themes like Princess Tea Party, Spa Day, Glamour Girl, and Groovy Girl Rock Star are a blast (and it’s NOT at your house!).  Diane and her staff take care of everything and every detail.  Even the sandwiches are themed, cut-out in the shape of tiaras for the Princess Tea Party. 

 

Don't forget the holidays-- Halloween and Christmas!  Diane and her family go nuts for Halloween themes and decorations, so of course that has spilled over into the offerings at the store. Check out this perfect purse for your Halloween party.

Diane is bringing the best of Hip Hop Lollipop to our Girls Night Out… We have less than 7 days left until the fun-filled evening.  Don't forget to pre-register at www.GNOHouston.com.  Only those pre-registered are entered into the GRAND Door Prize Drawing (and the odds are looking really good).  Not to mention, you will save time at the door.

Diane Sizemore

Hip Hop Lollipop

6207 Edloe

713-218-7800

www.thehiphoplollipop.com

Posted by Denise at 08:36 PM | | Comments (1)

October 08, 2009

Exclusive Girls Night Out Event at the Studio

 

 

Get your babysitter scheduled because you are not going to want to miss this event.  We have been planning for this special event for the last several months.  We hope that you all can take some time to drop by to shop and support the Texas Center for the Missing at the same time.  ONLY those attendees that pre-register at www.GNOHouston.com will be entered into the Grand Door Prize drawing of lots of goodies and gift card cash!  Pre-registration will also save you time at the door.

The first 100 attendees will receive an earth-friendly shopping bag filled with goodies and even more room for your shopping finds of the evening.  As you can see above, we have a great line-up of businesses and boutiques for everyone, so don't forget to bring a friend or two.  You can learn more about each of the vendors here on the blog (search "Girls Night Out").

Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres, wine tastings from the Roving Vineyard, delicious cake balls from Angie's Cake, Mojitos provided by Republic Distributing & Bacardi, and Sweet Leaf Iced Tea provided by The Sweet Leaf Co.

We will also have a SWEET special portrait promotion/sale at GNO just offered to those that attend.  If you plan to have portraits made soon, this will be for you (details still to come).

We can't wait to see you there.  8 days and counting!

Posted by Denise at 08:26 PM | | Comments (1)

October 06, 2009

Alan Cable Jewelry- Girls Night Out Business Highlight

 

 

 

Alan Cable Jewelry has a sign on the window, “Hand crafted silver and gold jewelry, No Tricks.”  This one metal smith shop is true to the statement, but it should also say “most unique and cool jewelry in Houston.”  When you walk into the rustic shop you see true craftsmanship first hand.  And, on most days, you’ll meet the sweetest dog Charlie too!

Alan Cable has always been an artist, sketching and building things from a young age.  He was a “rocker” during the 80's as the lead singer of the band “The Refuge” (some native Houstonian’s might remember hearing them at dances and parties).  As a young adult, Alan found that jewelry design was a relaxing, creative outlet.  Before mastering metal smithing, he designed pieces that were produced in Indonesia.  He loved the country and people so much he built a house in Bali where his business was headquartered.  In the early 2000s, Alan decided to shut down his jewelry import business and began creating his designs himself.  Completely self-taught (aside from a few diamond setting classes and books) Alan created his first pieces “trial by trying.” 

Years ago, one of his customers described his style as “Germanic Industrial.”  I asked Alan what that meant and he said he didn’t really know, but it sounded good.  His inspiration comes from his own paintings and sketches and also his limitless imagination.  A few reoccurring themes you see are trees and houses.  Alan says when he is working on pieces “the art just takes over.”

Alan creates every piece of jewelry himself – from the initial sketch to the final polished metal setting with stone.  It is fascinating to see his handmade molds, casts, and “works in progress.”  Different stations in his shop have different uses.  His messy workbench (he says if things are too clean he can’t concentrate) holds tools, wax castings and molds.  He has a vacuum and heater area which melts silver and gold, and a stone setting bench where he sets his pieces with precious and semi-precious stones. 

Gender neutral, his signature heavy silver beads are fashioned into necklaces and bracelets.  Alan pays close attention to the details – even the clasps are a piece of art. 

Alan Cable Jewelry is a warm and inviting shop.  The rustic wood fixtures and iron wall hangings are intermixed with beautiful dried roses from Alan’s own rose plant collection.  The glass cases show off Alan’s designs in both gold and silver, some with precious stones and pearls.  Charlie, the sweetest dog, keeps Alan company during the day, and if you’re lucky, you’ll meet Alan’s wife and infant son.  And you will always find Alan at one of his work stations busily finishing up a custom piece or a design he’s “really wanted to do.”  Alan Cable Jewelry was recently voted in the Top 5 Best Designer Jewelry in Houston on Click2Houston.com

Alan will bring his works of art to our Girls Night Out.  Don’t forget to pre-register at www.gnohouston.com to speed up your check in.  This will automatically enter you into our grand door prize drawing, if you attend.  So, join us on October 17th and meet Alan.  But, you’ll have to go by his shop on Bissonnet to meet Charlie!

 

Alan Cable (& Charlie)

Alan Cable Jewelry

2356 Bissonnet

713-521-2031

 

Posted by Denise at 08:13 PM |

October 04, 2009

Greenpark Pharmacy & Gifts- Girls Night Out Business Highlight

 

 

 

I was so excited when Keri suggested Greenpark Pharmacy & Gifts as one of our invited vendors for Girls Night Out because as many of you already know, I am actually a pharmacist and Danny's Dad and Uncle are also.  (In fact, a little tid bit of trivia about Danny and I- we had 8 pharmacists in our wedding including all my bridesmaids.)  But enough Clark family facts.  Let me tell you about this hidden treasure in the neighborhood.

 

 

 

The running joke between Nancy and Ken Hughes is “Do we own a gift shop or pharmacy?”  The answer is BOTH!    Eighteen years ago, Nancy and Ken bought a “typical” pharmacy in the Greenpark professional building near the medical center.  Ken, a pharmacist, always wanted to offer compounding drugs.  Doctors send their patients to Ken when mass produced medications don’t work.  Soon the Greenpark Pharmacy was exclusively compounding prescriptions.  Nancy saw that the space filled by over the counter medications was just getting dusty – people bought their Tylenol and Advil other places.  That is when the “Gifts” were added.  Since moving to their Bellaire Blvd. location 5 years ago, Nancy and Ken’s shop has flourished. 

 

 

Just walking into Greenpark Compounding Pharmacy and Gifts makes you feel good.  Nancy and Ken’s goal is to make their customers feel better physically and mentally.   Obviously, the compounding pharmacy helps those with special pharmaceutical needs.  The gift store just makes you feel good walking in.  “We have patients come in with their prescriptions not knowing there is a gift store.  They usually find that perfect gift for themselves before leaving with their medication.  Others come in for the gift shop and don’t even notice the pharmacy.”

 

 

Nancy has a knack for finding unique items you “just have to have.”  Holiday , baby, teen, jewelry, home, religious, funky and elegant, you’ll find the perfect gift for just about everyone on your list. 

 

Some of Nancy ’s favorites right now are beautiful wood block plaques shown with sepia toned images and bible verses from The Julie Chen Collection.  Also, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces from China Baroque.  Pendants and bracelets are fashioned from hand-cut china set in sterling silver.  Nancy has a full flavor selection of candles from the Houston Candle Company.  These no soot, soy based candles boast scents like Iced Lemon Biscotti, Sage & Citrus, and Spring Rain. 

 

 

Greenpark Compounding Pharmacy and Gifts carries a full line of Caldrea products.  These “green” household products are made with essential oils and are never tested on animals.  Caldrea’s Sweet Pea Stain Remover is a must for anyone with kids (or husbands!) 

 

 

Of course, this is just a taste of all that Greenpark has to offer and not to forget their specialty compounded perscriptions.  Come to our Girls Night Out and meet Nancy.   (Don't forget to pre-register at www.GNOHouston.com to be entered in the doorprize drawing)  Nancy will have her favorites and more for that perfect holiday gift.  And, the next time you are on Bellaire Blvd., be sure to visit Greenpark Gift Shop (& Pharmacy).  You won't find aspirin here in this pharmacy, but you will find the perfect gift for nearly everyone in your family.

 

 

Nancy & Ken Hughes

Greenpark Compounding Pharmacy & Gifts

4061-F Bellaire Blvd
Houston, TX 77025
(713) 432-9855
www.greenparkrx.com

 

Posted by Denise at 08:55 PM |


Hosting by Yahoo!