Colour & Meaning

Ever wonder why you gravitate toward certain colours time and again? Styles change, trends come and go, but people don't often change their favourite colours. So while you may no longer be sporting feathered hair and bell bottoms chances are you still love white kitchen cabinets and the same flowers in your garden.

Certain colours have different effects - so we thought it would be fun to find out what those are.

White
The colour of perfection - or so some experts say. All I know is it's hard to keep clean...
White is associated with light, innocence and safety and brings about a sense of calm and order.

Gray
Considering this colour is associated with loss and depression it's surprising the number of people choosing gray suits in the office sector (guess that's why I'm not there)

Black
I hope it makes me look slimmer as so many say.
Black is associated with authority and power, and brings about a sense of mystery and possibility.

Green
The peaceful colour that brings about a sense of relaxation and renewal. Except when one is green with envy.

Blue
Blue is a calming colour when it's pale, but more exhilarating when it's bold and vibrant.

Orange & Purple
Orange stimulates and gives a sense of warmth at the same time.
Purple is uplifting and is often associated with royalty. However, wearing it didn't get me any closer to Kate & William on their recent visit to Calgary...

Red demands attention and often draws the eye quicker than any other colour. It is the colour of love and the colour of aggression ~ interesting combination!

Brown
This earthy toned colour evokes a sense of being grounded and wholesome.

So what colour should you use in your interior spaces? The next wardrobe staple? A new car? I don't know, depends on how you feel but when in doubt, go grab a big bouquet of multi coloured flowers ~ I think it is one time when colour could possibly be irrelevant.

Spring At The Willows

We're loving the warmer temperatures knowing Spring is just around the corner. So we decided to share our favourite Spring accessories to inspire you! 

All photos taken by the amazing Ryan Veldkamp!! Enjoy

The Art Of Saying Thank You

From Guest Blogger Lee-Anne Michayluk


In today's age of evites, facebook posts and tweets, receiving a note in the mail can be a lovely surprise. Stationary companies create gorgeous cards and paper. Having some on hand with a roll of stamps makes it easy to send off a letter or thank you note.

Once you have the cards, here are some basic guidelines when sending a thank you note.

1. Be prompt
When a friend extends a kindness or you receive a lovely gift, take a moment as soon as convenient and write a note of thanks.

2. Be personal
Address each person individually thanking them specifically for 'the lovely travel journal' or 'inviting us to share such a wonderful evening!'

3. Be polite
Etiquette never goes out of style. Stay clear of off color comments or jokes, even if Uncle Joe did get a little tipsy.

4. Be positive
What if you don't like the gift or action? Acknowledge, instead, the heart behind the kindness. You can thank them for being so thoughtful or taking time with you.

Sometimes it might be appropriate to include a little something in the envelope ~ a picture from the dinner party or of you using the new gift received.

Taking a moment to say Thank You is always appropriate and appreciated.
And with designs as great as these, who can resist!

Thank You Notes from the Gallison Mudpuppy Collection

Stylish Thank You Notes From Jonathan Adler

Nantucket Thank You Cards from Peter Pauper

Boxed Yellow Poppies Correspondence Cards from William Arthur

You might also like Discover: Vintage Postcards ~ an article from Eat.Love.Savor Magazine. They make a wonderful Thank You Card.

Valentine Ideas for The Man in Your Life

How do you say 'Happy Valentine's Day?' Dinner, movie, flowers, chocolate, diamonds ~ it's so easy for the men, but what should we get them? We would like to offer our suggestions for some unique Valentine's gifts for the man in your life.

A new and fun product at The Willows are Whiskey Rocks - actual ice cube molds that mimic the look of stones. Pair these with a bottle of your man's favourite scotch for a thoughtful and well received gift.

For the fashion conscious guy we offer a fine selection of solid sterling silver jewelry and accessories from the world renowned Thomas Sabo line. From cufflinks to pendants to handsome watches, we have an excellent selection to choose from.

Another fashionable idea is the gift of chic office accessories. These vintage replicas are sure to be well received.

So now that we've taken some of the guess work out of finding the perfect gift all you need to decide is what to wear! 

Buon San Valentino!

Twitter Tuesdays

We love Twitter - it's been so much fun to tweet with new friends! As our way of saying THANKS to our followers we've launched Twitter Tuesdays.

Every Tuesday when you shop in store at The Willows show us on your mobile or via a print out that you follow us on Twitter & receive 10% off your purchase... It's that easy. You can also enter to win our monthly giveaway (it's always something great!).


So thanks for following & thanks for supporting us :)