Senior Editor of @Chief_Marketer; Promotional Awards Director of PROMONext & The PRO Awards. Hiker, biker, foodie.
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Articles by Patricia Odell
Ceramics Add Gleam and Glow to Your Home Décor
As we move into the cooler months with shorter days and longer nights, now would be a great time to brighten your home with greenery and flowers—even if they’re from the grocery store—and well-placed, but not overly scented, candles. I love handmade ceramics for their subtle, and sometimes not so subtle, texture and glow. And while I do enjoy pieces that are white or cream, a little color can add a lot. These ceramic pieces can be found at the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art’s Museum Shop.
Refresh Your Home with Earth Tones Elevated by Sky-High Hues
I don’t know if it’s a trend, or my age trending upward, but I’m attracted to earthier tones more than ever. Creams, browns, blues, and greens soothe in a way I hadn’t needed before. Seagrass, cottons, and linens deliver these tones expertly, as if they were introduced at a party and became fast friends. Sisals work well for us, because our dog, Jeff Bridges, likes to chew the corners when he’s anxious, which is anytime we leave the house.
Back to (Art) School: Treat Yourself and Your Home
Whether youhave children who are going back to school, or the promise of cooler weather is making you yearn for something new, fall is a great time to learn something new. Why not take an art class? It would give you the opportunity to fire some new synapses, meet new friends, and create something for your home. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has three classes starting soon. Drawing in the Park is a four-class session starting Sept.
Ghostly Goodness: Stylish Gear for Halloween
I know Halloween is probably your favorite holiday. So many people tell me this. I must admit, besides the excuse to have mini-Snickers in my house, I’m not a big Halloween fan. Usually, I smile and pass out candy and never say, “Honey, let’s just take one.” In fact, the number of pieces that each ghoul, goblin, or Taylor Swift gets increases as the evening goes on. Last Halloween we were returning from a trip, and I took the easy way out.
Expanding Convivially: New Collections Exude Organic Beauty
Convivial established a reputation for beautiful, classic dinnerware and vases that do not shout, but that are at home serving dinner for one or 12 and holding our botanical friends with grace and beauty. The company has expanded its selection to include new vases, flatware, glasses, and linens. As with their original creations, the new selections have clean lines and great textures. The handblown stemless glassware and pitchers have a texture that mimics gently moving water.
The Way Home: New Book Captures Personal Journal of Creating Home
If you are continually enchanted by stories of people rescuing homes and bringing them back to life, don’t miss Our Way Home: Reimagining the American Farmhouse. After living in Brooklyn for a decade, Heide Hendricks and Rafe Churchill, principals in the New York-based architecture and design firm Hendricks-Churchill, discovered Ellsworth, an 1800s New England farmhouse and made it their own through a combination of personal expression and respect for the house.
Give Thanks Before and After Events with Gracious Hostess Gifts
https://www.cigna.com/legal/compliance/machine-readable-files This link leads to the machine readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to more easily access and analyze data.
Favorite Follow: Happy Habitat
Karrie Dean’s Happy Habitat Instagram feed is a constant source of inspiration. Her bold cotton throws are a good weight whether you’re struggling with the chill of your roommate’s thermostat choice or the actual chill outside. Her pieces look great, launder well, and always bring life to a room. Whether it’s Totem in greens, Desert Flower in dove, Reverse Black linen or Triple Triangles in ochre for your little ones, they cozy things up and won’t let you down during long winters indoors.
Let’s Sit by the Fire
Perhaps cooking for two seems too much. Or maybe three wouldn’t be a crowd for dinner, but five or six is. Carryout is not out of the question, in fact, it is the answer. Even with a bigger group, there’s still an opportunity to hibernate and have fun. Build a fire. Make some cocoa. Put on music that will make your friends and family feel at home or roll their eyes. And why not do a puzzle?
I Felt Better with You in the Room
I cannot get enough of these felt pieces from MerSea, but instead of wrapping you, they provide a wonderful cover for your pillows and plants. I haven’t settled on my favorite colorway, but the blue and green pillows seem destined for my sofa, once our puppy is out of his chewing phase.
Fix Me a Drink: The Joy of Cocktails at Home
Maybe it’s year-end reports, or incoming relatives, or constantly out-going offspring, but this time of year seems to require a lot of energy. It’s fun, of course, but in its own way disruptive. I do hate to complain—and I do love a party—but let’s face it, part of the reason we look forward to this time of year is for the opportunity to hibernate a bit. I’m making a case for making a date to stay home. There’s a difference between being home for the evening and having a date at home.
New Book by Washington State-Based Designer Showcases a Gift for Mixing Styles
Interior designer Heidi Caillier’s first book, Memories of Home, is the perfect companion for a chilly day at home. Her rooms are warm and engaging, and while she uses plenty of color and pattern, they have a fresh, modern feel. It’s not unusual that floral prints live easily with midcentury furniture. One striking example is the dining room in Callier’s guest house. The stark white Saarinen table cozies up to a floral-stripe banquette that is placed against a black wall.
Tradition, Reimagined: A Historic Arrow Rock Home is Re-Envisioned for the 21st Century
Interior designer Kelee Katillac clearly remembers the decorator from Ethan Allen coming to help her mother decorate their family home. “That started my love of yellow and orange,” she says. An organic creative, she began sewing and painting in college, which led to an interest in art and art history. Eventually, she understood that creating her environment brought her energy.
Estately, a Kristin Holton Collection, is Our New Favorite Follow
Kristin Holton, owner of Estately, is allowing many hostesses a bit of relief with the launch of Estately, a full-service tabletop design service. Holton launched her new career as her youngest child started school full time. She has an extensive collection of chargers, china, glassware, and flatware, in addition to tables, chairs, and linens. She is happy to work with clients’ pieces as well.You can find her on the website, but do add her to your Instagram feed @estatelykc—it’s a delight.
Good Afternoons! A New Store Combines Antiques, Vintage, and New Objects
Longtime design gurus, hunters and gatherers, and generally all-around lovely people, Jaclyn Joslin and Addison Ford, have opened a charming new spot in the antique district at 45th Street and State Line. Their shop, Afternoons, is a well-curated collection of antiques, vintage, and new items that have depth of character without shouting. Their selections range from antiques to midcentury art to—yes, my new obsession—art pottery.
Falling for Autumnal Hues
Orange you glad it’s cooling off? It’s nearly impossible not to feel better once the heat subsides. A bonus, as well, is that it’s easier to look good in the golden glow. While I’ve never been a big fan of Halloween, it can be fun to add some fall color to your table and home. No need to pull out a paint brush (or inflatable—unless that’s your thing.) Instead, adding warmer colors in accessories is an easy way to honor the season.
Ooh La La! Get the Look of the Lounge at Aixois Bistro
Kansas City favorite Aixois Bistro in Crestwood has updated their popular restaurant with a new lounge in the front room. Wisely, they worked with Susan Cannon, owner of Storyteller Interiors, and what a story she’s told here. Crisp white walls, cozy sea-blue sofas, rush chairs, and marble-topped tables provide a winning combination of textures that reference tradition while feeling comfortably modern. Bookshelves and natural woven seating add a relaxed air to the space. Steal the Look . . .
KC Hosts Design Stars: Nationally Recognized Authors with New Books are in Town
While it’s easy to cull inspiration from designers who work nationally and are widely published, it’s a special treat to see and hear them in person. While you may study their rooms in magazines and think, wow, it’s particularly interesting to hear what the challenges were in a project and how they solved them. Because all houses, rooms and clients have their challenges, even if they are small. We are fortunate to have three such designers out and about in Kansas City this fall.
Porter Teleo to Go
https://www.cigna.com/legal/compliance/machine-readable-files This link leads to the machine readable files that are made available in response to the federal Transparency in Coverage Rule and includes negotiated service rates and out-of-network allowed amounts between health plans and healthcare providers. The machine-readable files are formatted to allow researchers, regulators, and application developers to more easily access and analyze data.
How to Assess the Effectiveness of Your Loyalty Program
Redefining the Power of Webinars with Measurable Growth Hosted by Chief Marketer FREE LIVE WEBINAR Date: August 16, 2023 Time: 10:00 am PT/ 1:00 pm ET ROI attribution: arguably the most critical yet arduous part of the marketer’s job. You’re likely reporting on how many leads or engagement your webinars generated. But there’s so much more impact you can show off with your teams! Our cross-functional panel…
Nick Cave Launches Fabric Line with Knoll Textiles
Artist Nick Cave, a Missouri native and Kansas City Art Institute alumnus, works in the performing and visual arts. One of his Soundsuits was part of the 30 Americans exhibit at the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art in 2019, and his work Property is part of the permanent collection. The Air Up There installation is one of the new works at the Kansas City International Airport. Now you can live with his work at home. Cave has created a new line of fabrics with Knoll.
Local Grower Launches Floral Business
When Noella Chung moved into a house on a large lot with her husband and their small children, she spent the first several months working to make the house their home. As she was wrapping up the renovations, she received an unexpected reward. Her first spring in the house, a mature and varied garden began to introduce itself. “When it came, it was with a raucous profusion of cheery yellow daffodils all over the property. It was ridiculous,” she writes in her blog.
At Home with Peruvian Collection
If you’ve fallen in love with the rich and interesting textiles that make up Peruvian Connection’s clothing, its wallpaper, bedding, and linens are a “don’t miss.” Rich florals, crisp stripes, and soothing neutrals combine to create a space that’s just your own.
Create a Beautiful Water Feature in Your Garden
Midsummer in Kansas City can offer the occasional breezy evening, but let’s face it—it’s hot. Still, longer days lure us outside, but we need a way to take the edge off the heat. While my husband is trying relentlessly to convince me to put a pool in our backyard, I’m thinking a smaller water element may make more sense. Fountains provide both movement and a delightful, and I think, soothing, noise.
Living Spaces Home Store Offers Convenience, Updated Style
Recently, I was lamenting needing something for my home. (Who can remember what? There’s always something.) A friend offered, “Have you tried the new Living Spaces?” Momentarily confused, I replied, “I don’t need new living spaces, I need . . .” And she filled me in on the new Living Spaces store in Lenexa. Turns out, it’s quite a find. They feature products by Magnolia Home and Nate Berkus and Jeremiah Brent, as well as a wide range of styles.
Party in the U.S.A.: Celebrate Stylishly this July 4th
Many families have long-entrenched traditions around celebrating the Fourth of July, but it’s possible that you can shift stylishly without upsetting Aunt Gladys. Why not kick things up a bit this year? No need for fancy dress, but you could elevate the look of your table even if you’re serving Bomb Pops for dessert. (And who wouldn’t? They’re perfect.) White plates are my preference, but texture will reflect a casual mood.
Unique Decoupage Pieces Created with Vintage Images on Modern Hand Blown Glass
Kansas City native Grace Knott spent more than 20 years of her career in New York City as a stylist. Her list of clients was long and included Ralph Lauren Home, Saks Fifth Avenue, and The Food Network. When the pandemic struck, the density and sudden isolation of the city made her yearn for space, a yard and, as it turns out, a new career. Knott hung up her props and dug out her scissors and glue and began to decoupage.
Marketing-Friendly Features From Apple That Boost Engagement
VIDEO December 19, 2022 by Chief Marketer Staff Check out this replay of crowning the winners of the 2022 Chief Marketer PRO Awards, which began with a lively conversation between two PRO Awards judges, Visible CMO Cheryl Gresham and Disney Parks’ Senior Manager, Multicultural Marketing, Angela Burgin Logan.
Stylish Accessories for the Perfect Picnic
A couple of years ago my husband gave me a handmade picnic basket that he stocked with exquisite 1220 ceramic plates, small—3.25 ounce—Duralex glasses for wine, linen napkins in a color that I love that he might not, and a Matador waterproof groundcover. This gift was incredibly personal and still highly functional. I cannot discourage the high level of hunting and gathering, as a couple years later I find his effort touching still.
Powder Your Nose—In Style - In Kansas City
The tiniest space in your home often offers the biggest opportunity to surprise and delight. Powder rooms are the perfect place to make a memorable impression. Whether your powder room is jewel-box like with rich colors and patterns, or crisp and clean with white walls, cabinetry, and classic black-and-white photography, it offers the opportunity to provide an unexpected private moment.
Charming Candles to Keep the Bugs at Bay
When it comes to spring and summer in Kansas City, the month of June promises the best weather. Warm enough and not too humid, outdoor entertaining is at its peak. Still, it’s better safe than sorry when it comes to fending off bugs. The Corner Candleshop in Brookside has a charming selection of votives, poured candles, and holders that will help the buzz of your party come from your guests and not six-legged pests. Flying insects container filled with citronella, $24. Bee matchbox, $5.50.
Lively and Lovely, Anthropologie’s New Collection Turns Up the Heat
Ellen Merchant is a decorative artist based in London, but we’re lucky to have products from her collaboration with Anthropologie available here in town. Her designs have a strong Arts and Crafts vibe, and she is inspired by antique textiles and botanicals.Melamine plates, bowls, pitchers, napkins and more—yes, there’s a pickleball set, too—are loaded with bright colors of fuschia, orange, green, and soothing lavender. These products will kick off pool and patio season with flair.
Reopening The Green Door
Green Door Antiques is opening in a new spot with a slightly new game plan. Darren Killen and Dustin Swartz have purchased a building at 2507 Jefferson Street, just west of Studio Dan Meiners, to hold their wonderful wares. “We wanted a space of our own,” Swartz says.
A Peek Inside the Projects at George Terbovich Design
I’m admitting up front that I’ve been friends with George Terbovich, and the relatively new owner of George Terbovich Design (and long-time associate), Lucy Mayor, for, well, let’s just say many years. I have seen some of their projects firsthand but was always hungry for more. More casual sophistication, more wonderful textiles, more . . . more. But publicity has never been the firm’s focus, and the previous website featured a small selection of images and contact information.
Steal the Look: Bring the Casual Elegance of The Town Co. to Your Dining Room
While the wonderful food and cocktails are the focus of The Town Company, the dining room is an inspiration. As the palette of my home becomes more neutral, I find I’m drawn to shape and texture more than before. So, in-between bites, I was absorbing the details of the space of the dining room. The deep blue of the walls makes the room intimate without feeling cave-like. While not a typical neutral, it doesn’t shout, but provides a soothing background.
Designer Sara Noble and Her Clients Reimagine a Beloved House to Make Sense
Leawood living had been good to this family of six. They loved their neighborhood, they loved their schools, but recently they decided their home needed a refresh. They turned to local designer Sara Noble, with whom they’ve worked for several years. Noble’s first project with the family six years ago was the dining room remodel. The room is crisp and classic with white wainscoting.
Bloomin’ Fantastic: There’s No Reason to Confine Floral Prints to Warmer Months
Vintage Botanical PrintsVerdant, the botanical gift shop in the Crossroads, carries a lovely selection of vintage style 8-by-10-inch botanical prints printed on white dove canvas paper. You can either frame them, or, for a casual touch, just tape them to the wall. Eight prints available, $15 each. These simply framed prints from West Elm are by Diarrablu, a Black-owned lifestyle brand whose products are made in Senegal. The palmier prints lend a tropical air to any room.
Designer Lighting Available in Visual Comfort's New Showroom
Visual Comfort began designing and manufacturing lighting in 1987. If you’re not familiar with the brand, you may recognize their product. Their lighting has a broad appeal for its design, as well as quality. That they feature designs of well-known designers, including Aerin Lauder, Christopher Spitzmiller, Kelly Wearstler, Thomas O’Brien and more, make them easy additions to stylish rooms.
Get Hooked! - In Kansas City
Kansas City gets its fair share of April showers, and I think we can agree that no one lives here for the weather. Sometimes you need to make your own sunshine, or maybe even rainbows. These cheerful hooked rugs and pillows from Ampersand Design Studio, a local Kansas City-based company that’s receiving broad national acclaim, will put a spring in your step even if it’s cool and drizzly outside. Hi Round Hook Pillow, $58. Shaped Rainbow Hook Rug, $54. Love Hook Pillow, $52.
Frances Elkins: Visionary American Designer
A new book by Scott Powell showcases never-before-published material from the groundbreaking decorator Regarded by many as the grande dame of 20th-century design. Nearly anything that registers as great interior design in the 2020s appeared in legendary interior designer Frances Elkins’s rooms in the 1920s. Her projects were replete with warm tones, interesting tile, and a mix of modern, vintage, and antique furniture. Bamboo dining chairs in a Chippendale style? Elkins did that.
Five Ways to Level-Up Marketing for Subscription-Based Businesses
VIDEO December 19, 2022 by Chief Marketer Staff Check out this replay of crowning the winners of the 2022 Chief Marketer PRO Awards, which began with a lively conversation between two PRO Awards judges, Visible CMO Cheryl Gresham and Disney Parks’ Senior Manager, Multicultural Marketing, Angela Burgin Logan.
A Second Residence in the Ozarks Brings Families Together
Samantha and Matt Ray are native Missourians, and while they live in Chicago, they found themselves coming home regularly to see their families in Kansas City, where Samantha grew up, and Ozark, Missouri. “I’m from Ozark,” Matt says. “Samantha and I met in Kansas City. Our families are from around the area, and she grew up coming to Table Rock Lake.” When they visited from Chicago, they stayed at Big Cedar Lodge to be close to both families.
Light Me Up: Crate and Barrel Lighting
While I like shopping locally owned retailers, I am aware that the national chains in Kansas City provide a lot of jobs for our residents, and I have a few favorites. Crate and Barrel’s clean-lined products and reliable quality is one. Their new lighting collection is difficult to ignore. While it borrows heavily from midcentury masters, it makes good sense for homeowners who want a great look without getting into the four-digit category.
Take It Outside with Portable Wooden Speakers
If there is anythingI miss about the pandemic shutdown—and there’s very little—it’s the musicians who performed in my neighborhood. Sometimes I would read about their concerts in advance online, but most of the time I’d be outside and hear the first few chords and follow them to a nearby porch. While it’s not exactly the same thing, the Bitti Gitti Design Workshop Wooden Speaker’s wood-grain casing blends well with front porches, backyards, and campsites, or anywhere else you take your music.
Get Outside and See Some Architecture!
Walking tours are available in the palm of your hand. As our weather breaks—or at least begins to break—it’s a great time to get outside and enjoy the city. Fortunately, the Clio App has walking tours of Kansas City’s neighborhoods that includes historic buildings and landmarks. Get to know downtown, including the Financial District, Garment District, and the historic buildings and landmarks in the neighborhood.
The Pink House: A Classic 1920s Mary Rockwell Hook—Designed Home Moves into the 21st Century with Ease - In Kansas City
As a local real estate agent, it’s Margy Regan’s business to be aware of new residential listings. And while she and her partner, Dirk Schafer, were not looking for a new home, two years ago a listing popped up and she sent it to Schafer suggesting he take a look. While she was intrigued, at first glance, he had, let’s say, reservations. “I drove by and told her, ‘There’s no way I’m moving into a pink house,’” Shafer says.
Clairvaux-ant Gifting for Yourself or Others
There are lots of beautiful reasons to shop Clairvaux. (The combo of Kule sweaters, sparkly dresses, and beaded bags being a few.) But we’re talking about dressing our home and not ourselves here. These charming candles are sure to be a conversation starter whether you’re entertaining a crowd or hanging out plus one.
Add a Bit of Blush
While it might not be original to “think pink” in February, it can be fun You may shy away from rosy hues as they can be a bit cloying, but entertaining can benefit from a bit of blush, such as reflected in these items from Jorjy in Brookside. Why not toast your sweetheart or your bestie with pink champagne coupes that you’re sure to pull out again and again? (Everyday can be a celebration, after all.) A brass ice bucket will add a warm glow to your bar and doesn’t need to wait for a celebration.
A Valentine's Day Gift for the Home May Be Better Than Candy
I’ve been a big loverof Valentine’s Day from the very beginning. With arts and crafts, candy and love, and a big dose of red, who can argue with that? Whether you’re buying for someone else or yourself—oh, yes, self-love should be celebrated, too—there are gifts high to low that glow with goodness for your home.
The Old Mango, a New Shop in Downtown Overland Park is a Must-See
I’ve been writing about home decoration and design in Kansas City for more than 15 years. (I know, I had to count it out on my fingers a few times myself.) I have longtime favorite shops, but recently, I was delighted to run across a new kid on the block in downtown Overland Park. Courtney Caldwell and her husband, Trevor, opened The Old Mango, a home décor and design studio last March.
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