La Plates Blog

Kelly Market + La Plates

2012-01-11T14:08:00.000-08:00

We love when La Plates fans send us their pictures of our pieces in action. Especially when it's someone we think has fantastic, out-of-this-world taste! You should hurry over to Kelly's blog & checkout the new look - it rocks!

GIVEAWAYS - Holiday 2011

2011-11-16T15:07:00.000-08:00

We are having a BALL in our POP UP shoppe! We have a fabulous storefront full of great tabletops and we've decided to give them away to our Facebook Fans this holiday season! For each tabletop, we've partnered with Creative Candles for fabulous accents to the tabletops. You'll have to head over to our Facebook Page and leave a comment for each giveaway.

Rules of the giveaway, you can sign up for each tabletop once. Kansas City peeps want an extra chance to win? Stop by our POP UP, 8227 Corinth Mall, Monday - Saturday, 10am-3pm until December 3rd, 2011 & fill out an entry form. All winners will be selected by random.org on date listed via Facebook. Winners will be alerted via Facebook and all tabletops will be delivered/shipped to winners by Christmas. Good luck!

Poppin' Up a POP UP!

2011-10-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

We had SO much fun the last few years, traveling throughout the country for fabulous holiday trunk shows. However, this year we've decided to do something a little different - we're building a Pop Up in our hometown, Kansas City, for the holiday season!

We will be located in Corinth Square Shopping Center #8227. We will be open 11.7.11 - 12.3.11, Monday - Saturday, 10am-3pm and available for private shopping parties in the evenings. Our grand opening will be Monday, November 7th at 10:00 am.

We hope you'll follow along on our Facebook Page as we post photos of our progress in the space. As you can see below, we have a long way to go!

Get healthy!

2011-08-14T18:12:00.000-07:00

With the first day of school around the corner, we decided this is the perfect time to share our new La Plates Healthy Set. It includes a personalized placemat (with proper place setting) and a small plate (details healthy options for each category). La Plates is a Community Partner of the USDA. Checkout their My Plate program, they have great resources and ideas to choose a healthy lifestyle.

If you'd like a chance to win a La Plates Healthy Set, head over to our Facebook Page and "like" us. Then leave a comment on our Facebook Page, telling us who needs a FREE Healthy Set in your life! Giveaway ends Friday, 8.19.11 @ midnight CST - we'll use Random.org to pick our winner.

Nana's Pie Crust - you pick the filling

2011-08-09T17:51:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to blog about Nana's pies - somehow I always forget. Or maybe, it's just that I don't want to share my secrets. For correct preparation, she had me purchase a "sock" for my rolling pin and a proper mat to roll out the dough - both can be purchased at Pryde's Old Westport - Williams Sonoma hadn't heard of either.

Nana's Apple Pie:

CRUST-
1 1/2 cup of flour
1/2 cup of Crisco
pinch of salt
work together - both should be COLD, as in store in refrigerator before you prepare
1/4 cup ice cold water

FILLING-
1 cup sugar
2 tablespoons flour
pinch of cinnamon
2 cups+ of apples (or whatever fruit you prefer)

Bake 10 minutes @ 425 degrees. Then turn down to 350 degrees and bake for 45 minutes.

Back to School - 2011

2011-07-27T15:27:00.001-07:00

School supplies - check, figure out teacher for the year - check, educational inspired meals for 2011 - La Plates has you covered! This weekend only, order a Handwriting Plate and we'll include a matching placemat for FREE!

I'm a retired teacher and I love seeing kids get excited about learning. Why not serve breakfast, lunch and dinner on a plate + placemat to encourage great handwriting? Order a plate online and we'll automatically include a matching placemat - no coupon code needed. Offer expires 7.31.11 @ midnight CST.

HOT SALE - get them fast!

2011-07-22T12:12:00.001-07:00

In order to make room for a few new colors this Fall, these 3 colors of Sunday Catchalls just went on sale - 50% off {LEMON & DENIM available until sold out}. You may wonder why you should check Facebook...well all the Apple Green totes went to La Plates Facebook Fans before I could even post the sale on this blog! I guess that's one point for social media...

Get them while they last! We love a good deal - and love it even more if we can share it with friends. Come on, don't you deserve a Summer treat?

How can we serve you?

2011-07-06T14:19:00.001-07:00

We love entertaining with a monogram. After MANY requests, we have added 20 ounce styrofoam cups to our La Plates Collection. We hope you have many fun festivities ahead with these custom cups.
While we love styrofoam for it's party purpose, it is not cool in the dishwasher. If you'd prefer to reuse your cups, year after year, our 16 ounce frost cups are dishwasher safe.

Happy 4th!

2011-07-03T05:43:00.000-07:00

Every year, we kick off our 4^th of July weekend with a BBQ + Fireworks gathering. (2009, 2010) For a brief moment in time, all that matters is family, friends and good old-fashioned fun. We make the set up simple for all - including the hosts. We provide the BBQ, chips + bevies...our guests bring the sides + a seat for the fireworks show.

Over the years, we've added to our 4th La Plates collection:
We do load up on games for the kiddos at Target + Walmart:It's tough to stop and take photos when I'm having so much fun! Here's the start to dinner:
We did pause for a quick family photo...I love seeing all the red, white & blue outfits - especially the monogrammed ones.
While some eat BBQ, others spill out on the fairway for some fun...These two hitched a ride on a golf cart stopping by, love it!As a mother of boys, I love looking out & seeing a whole evening of games & running...I knew they'd sleep well...After the parashooters landed and before the fireworks began, these two discovered the dessert stash. They found a quiet seat, where no one could stop them...

We wish you a 4th of family, friends and fun! God Bless America!

National PINK Day - June 23rd

2011-06-23T06:04:00.000-07:00

There's not a lot of history on "National PINK Day", but we love any excuse to wear pink & offer a discount! Today only, we're offering 20% off PLATES, PLATTERS + PLACEMATS at La Plates. Enter code: PINK20 at checkout and your discount will be applied. Now get on your best pink sundress and share the pink love today!

discount code expires tonight, 6.23.11 @ midnight

Martha Stewart Living - June 2011

2011-06-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

If you've received your recent issue, I'm sure you've seen the brilliant plate wall that Martha Stewart Living created with La Plates! If you haven't picked up the issue, head to your news stand asap. You MUST get a copy...for the recipes on the cover alone:
We're a little partial to this story - nothing like making your home fit for a fab Summer:
The photos of this home are amazing. Leave it to the MSL team to figure out an exterior plate wall:

The photos above are all from Martha Stewart Living, June 2011.

Memorial Day Cocktails?

2011-05-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day is the kick off to Summer! We want to get you ready with a set of dishwasher safe, shatterproof FROST CUPS to take to the pool, lake, anyplace you're headed this summer. This weekend only, buy a set of 100 La Plates Frost Cups and we'll create a set of 100 matching cocktail napkins for FREE!

Offer expires 5.30.11 @ midnight. Cocktail napkin design will match the cups. If you have a napkin color preference, just add it to the Order Comments.

Design on a Dime - NYC

2011-05-10T14:25:00.000-07:00

Housing Works hosted the 7th Annual Design on a Dime opening reception on May 5, a three-day charitable interior design event, silent auction and public sale that raises funds for Housing Works’ lifesaving services for homeless and low-income New Yorkers living with HIV/AIDS.

This year’s event showcased the largest-ever roster of designers and celebrities who created 56 gorgeous room vignettes using new, donated merchandise, which was then sold for 50 to 70% off. All five of this year’s co-chairs, Iman, Nate Berkus, James Huniford, Charlotte Moss, and Lara Spencer, were in attendance.

Elizabeth Bauer Design of NYC and a retailer of La Plates, created a fabulous vignette, using our IKAT 10" plates and oval platters. We donated the melamine, but Elizabeth worked the decor magic! Checkout her space below...we only wish we could have attended!

Happy Birthday La Plates!

2011-05-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

I can't believe our little plate biz is turning 3! It seems like just yesterday I was dreaming up the La Plates website, brainstorming with friends and diving into this entrepreneurial adventure. Since our launch, we've had quite a ride. None of our success would have been possible without the amazing support from family, friends and our fabulous clients. Not to mention, all the new friends we've met along the way. Editors, bloggers, writers and social media peeps have shared our products with their following - making La Plates bigger than we ever dreamed could happen!

In a small effort to say thanks to all of our loyal fans, we're taking the work week (5/2/11 - 5/6/11) to giveaway La Plates treats. Here's how it works:

You can enter three times a day:
* "Like" La Plates Facebook Page and leave a comment on Celebration Post = 1 entry
* Share La Plates Celebration on YOUR Facebook Page = 1 entry
* Post the Celebration link on your Twitter account, including the following text = 1 entry
(Happy 3rd Birthday @LaPlates! LOVE the #Giveaway! http://on.fb.me/ifmZFH)

What you'll win:
The winning gift certificate amount depends on YOUR participation!
For each entry, we'll add a dollar to the La Plates Gift Certificate.
50 entries = 50 Dollar La Plates Gift Certificate
This means the more peeps you tell to enter, the bigger the prize!
(maximum = $100 La Plates Gift Certificate, daily)

How we pick our winners:
* 5 winners, 1 each day - 5/2/11 - 5/6/11
* Daily winner picked at the end of each day...whenever we end our work day
(between 5pm & midnight CST).
* Winner is posted on La Plates Facebook Page
* Number of daily entries plugged into Random.org - they pick the winner each day

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T11:43:00.001-07:00

How can you GREEN up your tabletop? We hope you REDUCE your paper plate needs and REUSE your La Plates for many years to come. No more paper plates, when you can bring fashionably hip La Plates to the table!

Another GREEN tip? Be sure to check out our monogrammed recycled plastic totes - you won't need any more plastic or paper grocery bags, when you can shop with these fab bags!

Let us know how you're making your world GREEN with La Plates - Happy Earth Day!

Mother's Day is Coming

2011-04-10T14:16:00.000-07:00

Have you thought about Mother's Day yet? La Plates is here to get you ready & offer you a fabulous deal! What mother doesn't love to have her family over for a yummy meal...on durable, colorful dinnerware...that she can toss in the dishwasher?! Order a set of 5 identical plates and we'll throw in a 6th for FREE? Want us to ship them straight to your mom or grandma? Just include a gift note on the order - pricing is never included in La Plates shipments.

How do you get this fabulous deal? Just order online by April 15th, 2011, midnight CST. Mother's Day is May 8th, 2011 - we need 10-15 business days for production of your fabulous La Plates items!

Southern Living - April 2011

2011-03-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

We were SO excited to see La Plates featured in the most recent Southern Living Magazine. We are big fans of the mag and the article we appeared in was right up our alley. From the ham buns on the cover - delish:
To the theme of the page, "porching" with our Monogrammed Silverware Caddy:
Personally, I've been a long-time porching fan. From counting cars with my Papaw as a 3 year old, to my Miami University (Ohio) days; you can't beat hanging on a porch swing with family and friends:

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-22T08:58:00.000-07:00

Somehow the stars aligned and brought 5 "old" friends together. I met two of these besties in pre-school...one at summer camp...the other in brown Nikes in the 4th grade. How we all found a weekend that worked to head to Florida is a minor miracle. Trying to get them to pose for a La Plates BASKET PLATE photo proved to be the weekend challenge.
I finally removed the "challenge" from the photos and simply let the plates, the shells and the vino be at peace - thanks for the laughs old friends!
Safe travels to those of you with upcoming trips - Spring Break 2011, wohoo!!

Flip Flop in Style - Stephen Bonanno Sandals

2011-03-07T17:17:00.000-08:00

We are so excited to offer our customers the amazing Stephen Bonanno Sandals! Attendees of our holiday trunk shows went crazy over the bespoke sandals. Now we're adding them online for Women and Kids! The toughest part is deciding on your color combo...we've got something for every outfit! Due to the custom nature of these handmade in the USA sandals, all orders take 4-6 weeks for production. Below, you will see some popular combos:

Sizing Info for Stephen Bonanno Sandals:

If you're not sure of your sizing and need a little guidance keep this in mind. We are a true B width - not narrow, not wide. Tho the following process to figuring out your size is helpful, it is by no means a guaranteed method to a perfect fit. The general rule is "APPROX" 1/8" between half sizes and 1/4" between full sizes. Due to the hand-crafted nature of our sandals, there can be slight variations in the length and width.

2011 Spring Collection

2011-03-02T05:27:00.001-08:00

We are so excited about our La Plates original designs for Spring 2011! We've been working on them for months...and now for the drumroll...IKAT + BASKET!
Due to our crazy snow in the mid-west, we had to hit the road with our new designs for some sunshine shots:

The new designs are available on plates, small plates, platters, placemats, cutting boards, and cell phone covers.

La Plates Trunk Shows - On the Road!

2011-02-27T12:32:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a fun excuse to gather friends? Need a fundraiser for an organization or your child's school? Wanting to justify your obsession with monogrammed items? Whatever your reason, we'd love to hear more and figure out if a La Plates Trunk Show is for you! We've got great incentives for hosting a La Plates Trunk Show. Email us at hostess (at) laplates (dot) com and we'll give you the details on how to bring La Plates to your community.

Photos by Danielle Norton

Tavern In The Village

2011-02-24T08:21:00.000-08:00

If you live near Kansas City, run don't walk to Tavern in the Village! We are so excited to have this fabulous new restaurant in Prairie Village. It's the perfect place to go on date night OR take your kids for a delicious meal out.

If I were a real food critic, I would have paused to take a photo of each part of my meal. However, I'm a food junkie and couldn't wait to dig in!

We had our kids with us, so every meal begins with what's available to entertain them. The Tavern has gone over the top with cool kid placemats that you can color with pressure (think keys, coins, spoons) or with triangular crayons - I know cool! But it doesn't stop there. If your kids are looking like they might finish up with the color masterpiece, they bring out bend-a-roos. I've never had my kids so well behaved and quiet at dinner!

Now on to the food, presentation + flavor was amazing:

Child #1 = melt-in-your-mouth mac and cheese
Child #2 = chicken strips (real chicken, tempura fried)
Husband = ceasar side salad, salmon with capers, whipped potatoes & asparagus
Me = Tavern side salad, fish special topped with crab/horseradish, risotto & sauteed spinach
Dessert = brownie tower, topped with caramel + peanut butter sauce

From the food, to the service, to the fun of running into friends and neighbors; The Tavern is going to be the place to be. I'm excited for our community to have such a wonderful place to gather. Congrats to our friends, The Mannings, for creating the perfect restaurant for Kansas City. Cheers to them for coming up with the concept - cheers to me, that I can leave cooking up to The Tavern now!

The Tavern opens to the public, Monday, February 28th, 2011.

Valentine's Must-Have

2011-02-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

I love to shop local - that includes fellow online companies + any Kansas City based biz. Marigot combines both! Lynne Gilbert, an interior designer in Kansas City, has always wanted to create the perfect fitting pajamas with the finest cotton - mission accomplished! I'm hoping one of these combos arrives this V-Day from Mr. La Plates:
Of course, this set would take me into Spring and Summer:
Soon to come is a nightshirt and accessories. And if you ask really nicely, they'll monogram your PJ's - I'm always a sucker for a monogram.

Show some love this month!

2011-02-09T15:18:00.000-08:00

Need we say more? You can't live without your phone, so show it some love with our Monogrammed Cell Phone Cover! Since we're just introducing these cell phone covers, we've got them on sale until the end of the month. Head on over to buy yours today!

Thirty-Somethings can still celebrate birthdays!

2011-02-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

I love celebrating birthdays - especially for old friends. Not as in, she's old. She's just stuck with me through the good and bad. This same friend has an obsession with certain foods. For her birthday, we decided to create La Plates celebrating these food obsessions:
Her sweet husband prepared a delish meal, followed by one of her obsessions - carrot cake:
Have you seen a happier thirty-something woman? Cheers to food obsessions!

And the winner is...

2011-02-07T18:47:00.001-08:00

We love this La Plates photo winner for many reasons:

*great girlfriends getting away for a weekend
*the escape to warm sunshine (while we freeze!)
*the fab display of our Reusable Bags

We received some great photos, but this one took the cake. We'll be sending the winner (one of the ladies pictured above) a gift certificate to shop for more items at La Plates. We love to see how all of our La Plates products are used - be sure to keep emailing them in!

Snow Day Blues...

2011-01-31T11:14:00.000-08:00

If you live anywhere near Kansas City, you aren't alone in preparing for the "crippling" snow to come. We've loaded up the house with food and bevies to last the week. (This does include a box of wine - word to the wise, it's not quality when you're snowed in!)

Looking for something to do while buried in potentially 3 feet of snow? Snap a pic of your La Plates in use. If it entertains our team while on winter lock down, you may be getting some free La Plates loot! What's better than free stuff sent to you, when you can't leave the house?

All photos should be emailed to info at laplates dot com by Friday, 2/4/11 @ 8 am CST. Let's get creative people. We want to see what's on your La Plates!

Prizes will be given for 1 out of 10 entries. One entry per person. Yes, that means the more people that enter, the more we give away! La Plates may use your photo for future promotion.

Big Love for Valentine's Day

2011-01-25T14:13:00.000-08:00

Holiday lights are hardly put away & it's time to start thinking about our sweeties! Because we put the personal touch on everything that leaves our store, you must order by Sunday, January 30th in time for a Valentine's delivery. While we think anything with personalization says, "I love you", here are some ideas to get you thinking about what to get your cutie pies:

Our HOLIDAY: Retro Heart plate - get one for each sweet pea at your table!

Our Sunday Catchall is perfect for any woman - feel free to forward this post as a hint to your love bug!

These stickers are a FREE treat this month, when you order any of our La Plates Stationery . Plus we're offering FREE SHIPPING on all La Plates Stationery - talk about LOVE!

We've got paper people!

2011-01-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

We've been working on our stationery collection for years. The only problem? Too many options! In an effort to get our products out there and get your feedback, we're offering a FAB deal! Buy any of our Flat Cards (qty. 25 or 50), Foldovers (qty. 25 or 50), Notepads or Stickers and we'll pick up the shipping. Not only will you received FREE SHIPPING, we'll include a set of Gift Stickers as well!If this doesn't motivation you to write your holiday thank yous...it's not happening!

FREE Gift Stickers will be created at the choosing of La Plates - everything we design is cool, so you're in safe hands!

Who knew?

2011-01-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

As you can imagine, the holidays are a little nutty around here. We're just starting to catch our breath! While looking something up on our website, I realized our La Plates Reusable Bag has been peanut sized online! Unfortunately, we didn't catch this OR the fact that our adorable Pink & Green bag image was missing until now.

So, what does any good business owner do when they realize a mistake? Fix it! Never mind the fact that Kansas City had shut down for massive amounts of snow, the temperature was below zero AND the kids were out of school for 2 days...
You can now find this cute little number online - and who will ever know I was knee high in snow while taking the pic?! Don't you need one of these to start dreaming about Spring Break 2011?

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T06:42:00.001-08:00

We can't thank our customers enough for the amazing year we had in 2010. It has been so fun getting to know you through your shopping, home decor projects and event extravaganzas! We look forward to a big 2011 and hope you'll be a part of it.

This year, we plan to bring you more amazing designs, available on our custom melamine products. We also have new items to roll out...we're putting the finishing touches on them now!

If you have any shopping to do for upcoming birthdays, Valentine's or weddings, do it now! (There will be a few price increases once our 2011 Collection launches.) Don't forget, friend10 at checkout gets you 10% off plates, platters + placemats.

Cheers to you! May you have a happy, healthy 2011.

We were on Oprah!

2010-12-29T14:44:00.000-08:00

Sort of. While catching up on our favorite show yesterday, Oprah was covering the topic of Quints by Surprise. Low and behold, one of our gifts to the Jones Quints appeared - La Plates Placemats on their kitchen table. Seems that our personalized mats keep them entertained and organized at mealtime! Glad they are a hit with the kids...now Oprah might need a few!

Happy Second Birthday to the Quints! And cheers to their big sis and parents for leading the way! Here's a link to our original Jones post.

LAVISH, A Great Group of Bloggers

2010-12-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to be a part of a great gathering of lifestyle bloggers this weekend: LAVISH! in Atlanta, GA. As sponsors, we decorated for the final toast & cupcake treat, take a look at the tables:
Each place setting had a dessert plate, frost cup + a notepad:
We met one of the first bloggers to introduce La Plates to their readers, Melissa C. Morris:
So fun to meet someone in person, after loving her blog for years!
The creator of LAVISH, The Broke Socialite:
Plus all the sponsors behind the event:

Congrats to Honeysuckle!

2010-12-09T05:08:00.001-08:00

We love this year's PANTONE winner!

We think Honeysuckle on our GREEK design is FAB with a little pop of charcoal. Look for more custom options, coming in our 2011 Collection!

Holiday Backup Plan

2010-12-06T09:11:00.000-08:00

Did you miss our December 5^th cut off? Not to worry! We are happy to send you proofs to wrap up with a pretty bow:

Wanting to order other items? Just copy a photo from our website, wrap it up and we’ll send the real deal as soon as it’s ready.

Not sure what your friend or family member would like? Why not buy them a gift certificate?

We have our elves working around the clock here at La Plates. While we don’t guarantee a December 24^th delivery for orders placed after December 5^th, they just might get there!

La Plates CYBER MONDAY

2010-11-28T16:45:00.000-08:00

We have all survived Black Friday and Small Business Saturday - now it's time for...

Shop at La Plates now until Monday, 11.29.10 @ midnight CST and receive
10% off all of your purchases.
Use the code:
holiday10
for 10% off at checkout.

This is a great time to order SETS of LA PLATES. Valid until 11.30.10:
BUY 5 identical plates,
get 1 FREE!
No code needed, we'll add the free plate during production!

All orders placed by December 5th will arrive by December 24th
Any orders placed after December 5th will be processed as quickly as possible,
but we can't guarantee a holiday delivery.

No refunds can be given for previously ordered items or for orders entered Monday without a coupon code - it will give our elves a headache & might slow down production!

Buy Set of 5, Get 1 FREE!

2010-10-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

We love a good deal, so we're really excited to offer one to you this holiday season! Now until November 29th, 2010 @ midnight CST, buy a set of 5 identical La Plates 10" melamine plates and get the 6th plate FREE! No need to enter any codes at checkout, we'll add the free plate to the order. No additional discount codes may be entered for the FREE plate deal to be applied to your order. Set of 5 plates must be identical in design + colors + font + personalization.Customers should only order 5 plates and we'll throw the 6th in for FREE. We will create the plate during production just for ordering 5 of the same identical plates. We can not refund money if you order a 6th plate - but we'll still throw one in for FREE!

Christmas Card Photos

2010-10-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

In an effort to motivate our kids to take Christmas card pictures, I found some old photos of Uncle Matt & me. I had to laugh at the number of monogrammed sweaters my mother dressed us in...La Plates was in the cards long ago!

Let's begin with 1981's sweet leaf pile pic...
A few years later, things got a little ugly...my bad teeth, the pom-pom hats over the bowl cuts, our "friend" Joey...but I've got a monogram!
May you have good luck in snapping a classic of your kids...dog...whoever you plan to show off this year!

Rainy Day Fun - Placemats

2010-10-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to our fabulous art class teachers, the kids had a new batch of sparkly play dough. With an afternoon rain & no tv (mean mommy) the kids came up with a new use for their Handwriting Placemats - pretty creative, if I do say so myself!

We also write directly on the placemats (washable markers only) - it's great entertainment while mommy & daddy are trying to get dinner on the table!

The Nest - what a fab mag!

2010-10-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

From the days of planning my wedding, I've been a huge fan of The Knot. Their sister publication, The Nest is just as helpful & fun for home decor & lifestyle. The Nest Fall 2010 issue has us already thinking about our holiday lists...a great collection of "gifts under $50"! We're partial to the La Plates Cutting Boards on page 24, but found something for everyone. Pick up a copy today - it's great!

Lonny Mag Love

2010-10-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite online magazines - Lonny Magazine - turns one today. While I still wish I could flip the real pages, I adore everything about the content of this publication!

Last week we were thrilled to be a part of the countdown to Lonny's 1st Birthday (sorry it was only a 1 day giveaway). Then to see our VIP wallet in the "We went mad for..." was a thrill!

Balliets, here we come!

2010-10-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

Back in 1992 (Stanton Hall - Miami University) I met a woman that I knew would be a friend for life. At the time, her parents had just moved to Oklahoma City to take over Balliets. It was a great store back then, but this year they moved in to a brand new building - AMAZING!

On Tuesday, October 26th, from 5-9pm, Balliets is hosting a Girls' Night Out. La Plates has been invited to attend and share our products. We can't wait to pack up and head on down! If you're in the Oklahoma City area, join us for the fun!

"Balliets is Oklahoma City's premiere destination for fashion, be it apparel, shoes, cosmetics, accessories... you name it. We have recently relocated from 50 Penn Place and now anchor the upscale retail complex at Western and Grand called Classen Curve.

From the infusion of natural light pouring in all around the store, the three-and-a-half miles of rough white pine on the walls, the pale Italian travertine grand staircase, the revolutionary cosmetics and fragrance studio on the second floor, and the 12X12 foot projection screens inside the store, there is nothing usual about the new Balliets. Each individual dressing room is even uniquely and sumptuously appointed.

A bigger, better Balliets awaits you at Classen Curve. A Balliets with more space, more lines, an expanded shoe department and a brand new contemporary department. Balliets has been reborn and we can't wait to show it off."

If you see me at Balliets later this month, you can bet I'll be having a ball! Nothing like hanging out with an old friend and calling it work...and now for the 90's flashback:

2010 Holiday Trunk Shows

2010-10-06T08:35:00.000-07:00

Today begins our Holiday Trunk Shows! We love our online boutique, but it's also a lot of fun to be able to get out and meet our customers in person. All the trunk shows listed in BOLD are open to the public. Feel free to follow the links and learn more about the location and any fees for entry. Hope to see you this holiday season!

October 5^th – Leawood, KS – Mill’s Farm Girls’ Night Out

October 12^th – Prairie Village, KS – home show

October 13^th/14^th - Wayne, Pennsylvania – home show

October, 21^st - Oklahoma City, OK – home show

October, 26^th - Oklahoma City, OK – Balliets

November 2^nd – Fairway, KS – La Plates Headquarters

November 4^th/5^th – Macon, GA – Sorella

November 3^rd & 5^th - Western Springs, IL – home show

November 11^th-13^th – Chicago, IL – St. Chrys Holiday Faire

November 18^th - Houston, TX – home show

November 18^th-20^th – Franklin, TN – Nashville Junior League, Tis’ The Season

December 2^nd - San Antonio, TX – home show

Home Shows are hosted by La Plates clients who want to bring our products to their hometown. Because they are opening their home, we leave the invite list to them. All Trunk Shows in BOLD are open to the public, some require an entry fee.

Meat Mitch BBQ

2010-10-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite fall events in Kansas City is the American Royal BBQ. On this night, teams from all over the US host tents to show off their BBQ skills. While I'm not an expert - I like a good beef brisket sammy + a cold beer! We enjoy stopping by a lot of parties, but we seem to end up at the Meat Mitch event for most of the night. This team knows how to throw a party!

Now you can take the BBQ home with you. Meat Mitch has bottled his BBQ goodness...if only I could get his brisket to go!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-01T06:02:00.000-07:00

MODERN HOT PINK - PLATES
MODERN HOT PINK - PLATTERS
MONOGRAMMED HOT PINK - WALLETS

10.1.10 - 10.31.10
Donation will be made to:
Susan G. Komen for the Cure

Tervis Tumbler Giveaway!

2010-09-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

We're teaming up with Tervis Tumbler for our September/October GIVEAWAY. Be sure to invite your friends to enter - you'll have more chances to win!
Can't wait to see if you're the lucky winner? Head over to La Plates & get your Monogrammed Tervis Tumblers today!

Hoddy Toddy, we're at the Party!

2010-09-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

We were thrill that Invitation Oxford featured La Plates in their Fall, Football & Fashion Issue. What a fun combo of plates for the next tailgate in The Grove!

What's in your bag?

2010-09-21T19:44:00.000-07:00

I'm the victim of a tragic wallet situation. I refused a proper wallet and insisted on a pencil case 10 years ago {Kate Spade, great product, still use it for my glasses}...I'm a bit of a creature of habit...I didn't give it up until this came along:Our new leather wallet is the best! There's a place for every possible card, coin, dollar bill + receipts. And of course, a classy monogram - your choice of BLOCK or CIRCLE. You pick the leather: HOT PINK (my choice), MANGO, NAVY or BROWN. All leather colors match our Sunday Catchall...are you thinking great holiday gift? Us too!

September is Ovarian Cancer Month

2010-09-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

We are huge supporters of Ovarian Cancer research + early detection of the crappy cancer. We think it's so incredibly important, that we're donating a portion of all sales this month to a national and regional ovarian cancer organization. Women must know the signs of ovarian cancer - heck, it's important for men to know the signs and help women in their lives! You are your own advocate for your health - make your doctor listen if you have any symptoms.

My super amazing mom lost her battle with ovarian cancer. We're fighting to make sure all women know the symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms:

Abdominal pressure, fullness, swelling or bloating
Urinary urgency
Pelvic discomfort or pain

Additional signs and symptoms that women with ovarian cancer may experience include:

Persistent indigestion, gas or nausea
Unexplained changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
Changes in bladder habits, including a frequent need to urinate
Loss of appetite or quickly feeling full
Increased abdominal girth or clothes fitting tighter around your waist
Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
A persistent lack of energy
Low back pain
Changes in menstruation

If you have a history of ovarian cancer or a strong history of breast cancer in your family, strongly consider seeing a doctor trained to detect and care for ovarian cancer patients so that you can talk about screening, genetic testing and treatment options while you are disease-free.
(source=www.mayoclinic.com)

And then there was pre-school...

2010-09-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

Not to be out shined by the big kindergartener, the little man started pre-school this week. After watching his brother pose for 1st day pictures, he was all about having his day documented. The child that wears only vintage (washed 100 times) t-shirts was looking dapper in his "work shirt".

Happy Labor Day!

2010-09-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

We've been a little behind on blogging this summer. But in the spirit of the patriotic Labor Day upon us, we thought we'd share a little something red, white & blue. We are huge fans of Rainy Day Books - a local bookstore that hosts a fabulous author series. Earlier this summer, we attended a gathering with Laura Bush, talking about her recent book Spoken From the Heart. We gave Mrs. Bush a La Plates treat, because we think she's an amazing woman!
Wouldn't you know, just days later, a thank you note arrived? I knew our former first lady was a class act, but a thank you note for little old me? We were very honored to have Mrs. Bush take a liking to La Plates, but more importantly, take the time to write.
Have a great long weekend - safe travels and fun times!

A Big Day

2010-08-21T07:03:00.000-07:00

As a former teacher, the first day of school has always been a big deal for me. This week was a whole new ballgame...We got him all ready with school supplies + backpack + lunch bag...
But then he got the "hot lunch" menu. Nachos Grande won out over carrying his new lunch bag with my healthy, organic ingredients. Maybe next week he'll take me up on a packed lunch & he'll be rolling in style!

What I did for Summer "Vacation"...

2010-08-15T13:05:00.000-07:00

This summer has brought a lot of travel for work + pleasure. It's always nice to mix in a little of both, then you're not feeling guilty for leaving family OR work - I loved it all!

MEMORIAL DAY - Sea Island, GA:

If you haven't been to the Golden Isles, you deserve a trip down! We love staying at Sea Island or St. Simons Island. Jekyll Island has great camping too...if only I could talk my husband into my dream RV!

FATHER'S DAY - Chicago, IL:

We stayed at my brother's girlfriend's...hopefully he'll get hitched to her one day! Highlights of the weekend were: hanging with family in Lincolnshire & friends from Hinsdale, Gino's East Pizza, Lincoln Park Zoo, Children's Museum @ Navy Pier, shopping, grown up's night out and Father's Day Brunch @ Feast - delish!

WEDDING WEEKEND - Bar Harbor, ME:

The bride and groom had every perfect detail planned for our weekend stay in Bar Harbor. We stayed at the Harborside Resort - perfect location & great accommodations! You really can't go wrong with meals or activities in Bar Harbor - be sure to grab a lobster roll!

HOMETOWN WEEKEND - Indianapolis, IN:

We love going to Indiana whenever we get the time. I grew up there & love visiting family and friends. This summer I took my boys for a long weekend while their daddy played in a golf tournament. Highlights of this trip were: hanging with Nana & Uncle Dave in Rush County, meeting the newest addition to our family, Children's Museum, Hinkle Field House and Traders Point Creamery.

FAMILY VACATION - Carbondale & Aspen, CO:

Escaping the August heat of Kansas City is especially delightful if you get to go to the Rocky Mountains! We spent our family vacation in Carbondale, CO. We love to fish, hike, golf - basically anything outside in the cool mountain air! Favorite restaurants include Taqueria El Nopal (great Mexican) and my temporary "office": Dos Gringos - Burritos & Coffeehouse. We finished off our week with a night in Aspen, CO. It was the perfect end to a fabulous adventure. We stayed at Hotel Aspen, rode the gondola up the mountain, played in the fountain and had dinner at Brunelleschi's Dome Pizza.

August Giveaway - SEERSUCKER COLLECTION!

2010-08-05T13:08:00.000-07:00

We're so excited about our Seersucker Collection this Fall! We've added it for all our friends that love to see their name or monogram on preppy bags & totes. It's perfect for your toddler starting Mother's Day Out or the preppy bridesmaids to carry all their "stuff" the day of the wedding - the occasions are endless!

Be sure to head over to our Facebook Fan Page and sign up for our August Giveaway. Leave a comment on the FB Giveaway Post & we'll pick a winner from all comments entered before 8.31.10, midnight CST.

comments left on this blog post will not enter you in the GIVEAWAY,
please enter them on our Facebook Fan Page!

Back-to-School Stickers!

2010-07-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

For years, I've gotten excited about Back-to-School. As a kid, I loved going to Target to pick out all my supplies. As a teacher, I loved getting my room ready for my students. This year brings a whole new spin, as I get my son ready for his first day of kindergarten!

We've just added waterproof stickers to our La Plates line-up. Hopefully this will make it fun & easier to get your kiddo ready for school - we've stuck them on just about everything! We'll be doing our July GIVEAWAY on our Facebook Fan Page, leave a comment there for the chance to win a set of stickers. FREE SHIPPING on all La Plates stickers until Labor Day - celebrate the student in your life!

We offer our stickers in a variety of fonts...we just think the Elementary Print is great for the season!

Southern Living - July 2010

2010-07-08T12:02:00.000-07:00

Southern Living shared La Plates with their readers last summer. Their editor even featured our MODERN plates with Harry Smith on CBS This Morning! This summer, they chose our 7.5" Salad/Dessert La Plates for their Ladies Luncheon article - such a compliment, and a great occasion to use La Plates!

Food Network Magazine - July/August 2010

2010-07-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

Our friends over at Food Network Magazine were feeling the La Plates Fourth of July theme when they requested samples of our GINGHAM plates in NAVY. They highlighted reusable outdoor dining gear - we think it's a fabulous GREEN idea!

BBQ + fireworks

2010-07-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

Over the last few years, our pre-Fourth BBQ has become a tradition. It's a simple recipe for success: good families + good friends + good food = a fabulous time!

Our RED, WHITE & BLUE La Plates collection has grown!

Got to keep the bevies cold at a BBQ!
La Plates koozies coming soon.

Our fearless BBQ leader, Uncle Burgs - the best!

Meat menu of brisket, pulled pork, sausage & hot dogs.

A Kansas City sampling of BBQ sauces...

Each guest is asked to bring a side - fun to try different delish recipes!

The kids can't help but have fun!

Even the youngest guests!

We love a woman with the taste for a good monogram!

And we would never forget our four-legged friends on the 4th!

Cheers to the Fourth!

2010-07-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

More photos are to come of our pre-Fourth BBQ celebration. However, we have had many requests for our "Mean Green" recipe...proceed with caution.

Dictated by my husband:
- 1 "handle" of vodka
- 30 pack of beer
- 2 limeade frozen concentrate
mix together in a spouted cooler, serve over ice, enjoy!

House Beautiful - June 2010

2010-06-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

House Beautiful has decided La Plates are "THE BEST"! We were thrilled to see they dedicated an entire page to our plates...we think they're the best too!

Elle Decor - June 2010

2010-06-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

We were honored to be part of Elle Decor's article: Perfect Weekend Guest = Bring the Perfect Present. Now what did you buy for your hostess?

A Golfer's Dream

2010-05-14T20:55:00.000-07:00

Every kid has his dream...my husband's dream was to be a professional golfer...he did it for a while...his dream pairing is with Tom Watson...he gets to play golf with him in a few weeks...watching his son hang with Tom Watson today...priceless!

The Watson Challenge, Kansas City Country Club, June 12-14, 2010

May Giveaway

2010-05-13T11:33:00.001-07:00

Mr. La Plates has chosen the May Giveaway item - our NEW La Plates Cutting Board! We're so excited about these items...it seriously makes me smile when I head into the kitchen! I know, it doesn't chop your veggies for you, but it makes prepping dinner a little more fun when you do it on a monogrammed board.To enter the GIVEAWAY for 1 La Plates Cutting Board (small), just leave a comment below - tell us what your favorite design would be on the board! Be sure your email is available to contact you, should you win. Enter until the GIVEAWAY until midnight CST 5.16.10. And if you're one of those people who never wins anything, have no fear! Our new tempered glass items are on sale until 5.20.10 @ 20% off - great deal!

WINNER of La Plates Cutting Board (small)
SARAH CAREY
picked by Random.Org.
Be in touch with your favorite design & shipping info
and we'll have your winnings on the way!

Look what's cookin' in our kitchen...

2010-05-11T14:03:00.000-07:00

We've just added some tempered glass products to the La Plates fam and are SO excited to share them with you! Tempered glass is really durable and can accept both hot and cold items. These items will be listed at 20% off until 5.20.10.

Our La Plates Cutting Boards are available in two size, small = 8.75" x 11.75", large = 11.5" x 15.5". Great for chopping, serving cheese & crackers, even as a trivet for a hot casserole dish!

And our La Plates Coasters are available in sets of 4, 4" x 4". Need we say more for function...doesn't everyone need a fashionable hip set of monogrammed coasters?!

Tempered glass is hand-wash only, sorry!

Giveaway at The Motherload

2010-05-11T05:53:00.001-07:00

I've had the best time getting to know my neighbor & fab blogger Erin, over at The Motherload. (yes, it's the same Erin who went to meet Chelsea Handler with me!) She's such a great writer, mother & friend - she's also GREEN, GREEN, GREEN! At a recent La Plates Trunk Show, she purchased our reusable/recycled plastic tote...among quite a few other items! We decided a Giveaway on her blog would be lots of fun! Be sure to head over to her blog and checkout the rules & sign up - you can't win if you don't try!

Chelsea, my late night friend

2010-05-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me, knows I work late into the night. During these late night hours, Chelsea Handler keeps me company. E! has her on twice a night & reruns never bother me. I think she's just as funny a second & third time around! When I heard Chelsea was coming to our local bookstore, Rainy Day Books, I knew I'd be lining up! We even made her fat dog, Chunk, one of our new PuppyMats.

Waiting in line with my friend Erin, great blogger!

Chelsea greeting everyone by name - nice touch, even if it was just reading the PostIt!

Chelsea loving her new La Plates PuppyMat - happy dining Chunk!

Not sure if Chris Franjola was suppose to make it in the store, but women were surrounding him for photos outside.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

2010-05-05T12:33:00.000-07:00

Never a better time to add a new monogrammed cup than Cinco de Mayo! Although we aren't celebrating like our days of Atlanta past, we still like to toast with a cold margarita. We love our new 12 ounce Tervis Tumblers for cocktails or any occasion! Hope you have a spirited Cinco de Mayo!

Silhouettes - great gift!

2010-04-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

The Little House (in Kansas City, MO), is an amazing children's store for many reasons. Right now I'm loving them for helping knock out my Mother's Day gift for Nana! They are hosting Tim Arnold, The Silhouette Man, this week. He does silhouettes the old fashioned way - he cuts them, right then and there. In a matter of 10 minutes, my two wild ones were in and out of the chair. And get this, with them bouncing and singing, he still got their silhouettes! Tim is from Tennessee, but travels the US for similar event. See if he's coming to your town!

Tim Arnold, hard at work!

frames were on sale @ Hobby Lobby, so it was a great deal for 2!

Rock Chalk Ball 2010

2010-04-26T08:30:00.000-07:00

Although I am not a KU grad, the Jayhawks have welcomed me as a transplant...far from my Redhawks, it's my hometown fav! This weekend was their annual alumni fundraiser, the Rock Chalk Ball. We decided to bring a little La Plates love to the table - it was a fun night!

Our hostess and the new KU Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little

Our host posing with the Jayhawk...and his La Plates!

Placemats for your Furry Friends!

2010-04-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

We have been offering these fab placemats at our trunk shows & finally found a few minutes to update the website! Spoil your pet today!

Is your furry friend preppy...

or nautically cool...

or classic & subtle...

What to do on a 16 hour roadtrip...

2010-04-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

Things I learned on our La Plates trunk show roadtrip to Oklahoma & Texas:

-Balliets is the coolest department store around - I got all the inside scoop on their new digs!
-The women of Duncan, OK are awesome!
-Dallas is not a city that you want to be driving through during rush hour.
-Houston is 15+ hours from my home.
-Our host/hostesses during our trunk show whirlwind were amazing!
-RA Sushi on a Friday @ happy hour time, might not be the place to dine with kids.
-Rudy's BBQ is fabulous and so friendly.
-Braum's Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough milkshakes would make me an extra large "plate lady", if I lived closer.

Below was one of my cooler mom moments. We were going on hour 13 in the car, when I remembered the glow sticks I had thrown in my bag. As the sun set, I pulled them out & it was instant entertainment - well worth the $1 spent!

The Pioneer Woman - what a woman!

2010-04-23T13:59:00.000-07:00

La Plates was lucky enough to be invited to participate in a fundraiser for Duncan Regional Hospital Health Foundation - a sold out crowd of 375 women from Duncan, OK. Featured at the event was Ree Drummond, aka "The Pioneer Woman" - a multi-tasking cook, blogger, photographer, homeschooling wonder mom that has guided me through some of my better home cooked meals!

Ree signing one of hundreds of her cookbooks:
The Pioneer Woman Cooks

The Marboro Man signing cookbooks too - a really fun couple!

Some of La Plates products on display for the fundraiser. Thanks to all the women of Duncan, OK that welcome us - we're shipping everything out soon!

La Plates + The Pioneer Woman =
One Fab Dining Experience!

The La Plates we designed for the Drummond Kids -
Bon Appetit!

April Giveaway - fashionably "green" napkins!

2010-04-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Mother's Day, wedding season, heck - a long day at work earns you a cocktail on a monogrammed napkin! Available in both cocktail and dinner sizes, set of 4 white napkins, you pick the font, thread color & personalization.

This month, we're giving away a set of 4 La Plates Reusable Cocktail Napkins. All you have to do is leave a comment below...make sure we can track down your email address if you win! A winner will be selected by Random.org on April 15th, 2010 @ midnight...we figure someone needs a freebie on tax day!

**glass of vino does not come with napkins

UPDATE!
WINNER OF THE GIVEAWAY: The Balch Bunch

How to Monogram a Hurricane : Eddie Ross, teacher

2010-03-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

When our fav KC blogger mentioned that Eddie Ross would be teaching a class here, we knew we had to be a part...once we heard it involved a monogram, we were thrilled! We gathered at the fabulous Creative Candles. Greeted by Eddie & Jaithan, we mixed and mingled, then got to work.

Supplies:
hurricane, vase, whatever you want to monogram
Armour Etch
contact paper - cut to 8.5 x 11
exacto knife
Sharpie
tape
paint brush
printed out monogram - on 8.5 x 11

While nothing can compare with Eddie & Jaithan's step-by-step direction...hand holding...wine pouring we're going to try to give you our interpretation. We're going to do it again, for sure!

Step 1: Tape Contact Paper, grid side down, over your monogram, onto table.
Trace monogram with Sharpie.

Step 2: Peal contact paper off and apply to hurricane.
Make sure it's straight and no air bubbles...easier said than done, but important!

Step 3: Using your exacto, cut your letters out & peal away, leaving letters exposed.
Clean surface area with paper towel, sprayed with Windex.

Step 4: Apply Armour Etch with paint brush - you want it thick, but not dripping.
Let stand for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Rinse off Armour Etch, remove contact paper & tape, clean glass with Windex.

Eddie helping fellow blogger friend

Our fav KC blogger at work!

Loving my teachers - such a fun day.
Thanks Eddie & Jaithan, come back to KC soon!

Another play-by-play from Anne Potter...
a little more organized in her description!

Green is Good - MARCH GIVEAWAY

2010-03-17T13:42:00.000-07:00

We do anything we can to be "green" at work, home & play. These La Plates Reusable Bags help us out in all those categories! You can tote your work gear during the week...your groceries after work...we even took ours to the beach to carry sand toys last Fall! We're offering the bags in 2 styles: NAUTICAL CIRCLES (blue & white) & SWIRL (black & white). Made from recycled material, these 17.5 x 13 x 9 bags can carry all kinds of loot!

As working moms, we're always looking for ways to simplify our lives too! We're knocking out all of our gifts this Spring with these totes...Easter, Mother's Day, birthdays, teacher gifts. At $20 each, it's hard to beat!

This month, we're giving one lucky reader a FREE La Plates Reusable Bag! All you have to do is tell us your fav bag combo in the comment section below. We'll pick a winner at midnight/central time, Sunday, March 28, 2010 - good luck!

Nautical Circles with Roman Fuchsia Monogram

Nautical Circles with Script Lime Monogram

Nautical Circles with Circle Red Monogram

Nautical Circles with Roman Yellow Text

Swirls with Script Fuchsia Monogram

UPDATE: We selected a winner!
hollymsc123,
be sure to get in touch, we don't have your email address!

Thanks for the love, Sara Gilbane!

2010-03-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

Lonny Magazine is sacred around here...when the monthly online issue comes out, the office gets quiet and we each pour over the articles, the photos, the how-tos, basically every last inch of the online pages (after-hours, of course). It becomes a lunchtime discussion of favorite ideas and designers...Sara Gilbane was at the top of our list this month!

So when we stopped by her blog yesterday, we were thrilled to see that she loves La Plates! She's off to Paris for a while, but be sure to checkout her work and see what fab ideas she brings back from her worldly travels!

All images are from Lonny Magazine, issue 3, pg.70 -
Sara Gilbane's residence, I'm jealous...

Little Green Notebook - GIVEAWAY

2010-03-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

Since starting La Plates, we have been introduced to the world of blogging. While we blog on the side, sharing more than we can on our website - there are bloggers that motivate others with each of their entries. One of our favorite daily reads is Little Green Notebook. Jenny is the creative wonder woman over at LGN. She makes fabulous shades out of old blinds, teaches you to decorate a bedroom in a week...heck, she even shares the beautiful story of her daughter's surprise arrival on Christmas Eve!

This week, Little Green Notebook is giving away a set of La Plates Salad/Dessert Plates. Be sure to stop by to sign up on LGN and spend a little time with Jenny - you won't be disappointed!

We're hosting a GIVEAWAY with LGN - a set of 4 Salad/Dessert plates.
You must leave a comment on Little Green Notebook for entry.

Spring has Sprung!

2010-03-04T21:43:00.000-08:00

Today was the day. I can see the light at the end of this very long and cold tunnel we call winter. Phew, it's been a rough one!

Thought we'd give you some of our favorite ideas for kiddo Spring and Easter plates. While we love our bunny plate, we know some of you like to use your La Plates everyday of the year.

GINGHAM with AMERICAN font:

DOTS in light green

STRIPES in turquoise:

Be sure to order by March 19th for Easter delivery! How cute for the family brunch?

They're Here!

2010-03-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

We've been dying for these totes to come in! We finally had a day of no snow and snapped a few shots. Can you stand it? They are perfect for Spring!!

in LEMON YELLOW:

in APPLE GREEN:

in NAVY:

Which one are you going to carry this Spring and Summer?

Artwork Dilemma

2010-02-26T12:12:00.000-08:00

While away a few weeks ago, my 5 year old called to report that he accidentally "cracked" a picture when he was playing frisbee in the living room. I tried to let it go, as I had escaped for 2 days to spend time with an old friend...by myself. Surely it couldn't be that bad...and had he really said he was playing frisbee in the living room? Upon my return, this is what I found:

I wasn't in love with the piece above the mantel, but at least we had something there! (Yes, those are Nutcrackers & a Santa photo...finally took them down this week.)

If you have any suggestions for pieces, feel free to leave a comment. I'm not scared to try something myself, I just need a little direction...

Monogrammed Sweaters - Kids Only, sorry!

2010-02-19T14:19:00.000-08:00

Our trunk show guests have been emailing in "special requests" to order these fabulous Monogrammed Roll Neck Sweaters this winter. We took them to all our Fall shows, but weren't sure how to fit them in online...we decided what the heck, our customers love 'em, we'll add them! So, just in time for Easter and Springtime fun, get your little peanut one of these adorable personalized sweaters! We love them in snowy Colorado with a turtleneck or sunny Sea Island with a pair of madras shorts!

Available in 6/12 month - 5/6T
Shipping is $15 for 1 or 10 sweaters, order with a friend!

Spring = Shoshanna

2010-02-11T08:16:00.000-08:00

What's a girl to do while recovering from a broken tailbone? Online shopping, of course! I'm a little annoyed with ice & winter these days, since they are the guilty party of the injury. However, I know Spring is just around the corner and I can't wait! Propped up in bed with the MacBook by my side, I've done quite a bit of damage (this is a test to see if the hubby reads my blog). My newest addiction is Shoshanna's 2010 Summer Collection. You can find them at fab stores all over...mine will be delivered.

Pretty with Pink!

2010-02-07T19:32:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun rounding up our RED items last week, that we decided we couldn't leave all the pink treats out for Valentine's Day! Mom Agenda in pink for organization, the fab cuff from Kara Ross, new silicone baking gear, New Balance running shoes to get us back in shape, our favorite flowers - pink tulips, pink SUGAR gloss, the Lilly cashmere sweater we've been eyeing all winter, Tervis Tumblers in pink and Garrett's Popcorn - delish! Don't forget to sign up for the February Giveaway by February 14th!

Superbowl Party Time

2010-02-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

As soon as we knew who would be battling our Colts (born and raised in Indy), we created these plates for die hard fans:
Leading up to Superbowl weekend, we were chatting with some friends hosting a suite for the weekend. They asked for some "team neutral" designs. Checkout out what some of the nation's best NFL players received from La Plates:

February giveaway, my sweeties!

2010-02-04T13:28:00.000-08:00

We're giving away a La Plates Platter this month! You get to pick the design, colors, font & personalization, seriously - so fun & personal!

All you have to do is leave a comment about your favorite platter on our blog with your email, that's it! Feel free to follow us on our Facebook Fan Page or Twitter, but really, all you have to do is sign up here.

Random.org will pick a winner on February 14th at 10pm central time and we'll post is asap! We'll contact you for details about your winnings - good luck! Spread the word, La Plates is giving something away each month...nothing like free stuff!

A couple of our favs, remember, you pick the
design*colors*font*personalization!
Giveaway expires 2.14.10 @ 10pm central

UPDATE: all responses must be in English...
sorry we aren't a bilingual office.

WE HAVE A WINNER!
picked by Random.org:
SIMSHABS

We're seeing Red & loving it!

2010-02-03T22:45:00.001-08:00

Here's what we're needing and wanting around here for the big V Day: Speck Mac Laptop Cover, Monogram Necklace from M & B Vintage, Wrap for the upcoming Red Hot Nights event, Spanx bathing suit, KitchenAid mixer, La Plates Cherry Sunday Tote, VDay Brownie Pops, Tory's new make-up bag, Vineyard Vines polos for all the boys in our lives!

Tervis Tumblers have arrived!

2010-01-27T08:47:00.001-08:00

During our trunk shows, we like to test out products to offer online. Over the holiday season, we offered sets of personalized Tervis Tumblers. They were a huge success!

Tervis Tumblers keep your bevies from sweating in the summer and keep your coffee and hot chocolate warm in the winter. Sold in sets of 4, these 16 ounce insulated tumblers are fabulous! You can select from many colors and a CIRCLE or SINGLE INITIAL monogram.

Have you thought of your Valentine?

2010-01-17T16:23:00.001-08:00

Valentine's wasn't a favorite holiday until 2001, when Mr. La Plates pulled a fast one and proposed! Like he can ever follow up with anything bigger than that?! On this Valentine's Day, why don't you show someone you care with La Plates?

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter...you may find a discount code that is good for 20% off plates until 1.29.10. Orders placed by 1.29.10 will be delivered by 2.14.10

Help Haiti

2010-01-15T06:17:00.000-08:00

We encourage you to donate directly to the organization of your choice to send relief to Haiti. However, in an effort to do our part, we will be donating a percentage of all online sales in January to the American Red Cross. This is the same fund that you can donate directly to by texting "HAITI" to 90999 to donate $10 to relief efforts. Peace to all those in Haiti - our thoughts are with you.

Our Flu Season Giveaway!

2010-01-13T08:34:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year that you're dodging the flu left and right! Why not display your anti-bacterial soap in style?

We're hosting our first giveaway of the year, right here on our very own blog! Leave a comment below, telling us what monogram style (CIRCLE*ROMAN*SCRIPT) and color (RED*NAVY*BLACK*BROWN*YELLOW*LIGHTBLUE*HOTPINK*WHITE) you would choose, if you won this sassy soap dispenser. Please include your email address, so we can contact you if you win! Contest will end Sunday, 1/17/10 at 9pm central. We'll announce our winner Monday morning.

We will be hosting a monthly giveaway on our La Plates Blog. Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the giveaway announcements!La Plates Soap Dispenser sitting upon our 2 feet of snow

La Plates Soap Dispenser in warmer times!

UPDATE: WINNER
RANDOM.ORG picked:
LLKays
script for the monogram in brown (or light blue! . . . so hard to choose).

Getting Organized!

2010-01-07T17:58:00.001-08:00

We always love when customers give us a new idea. During the holidays, a favorite La Plates friend let us know she was ordering our caddy as an "art caddy" for kids. We had to admit - it was a good one! We gave one to our resident artist for Christmas - so perfect for all the art gear!
Here's a shot of our original idea of silverware caddy - great however you choose to use it!

La Plates featured on Uptown Liz

2010-01-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

La Plates has always worked to give back to organizations with each sale. Whether customers purchase online or at our trunk shows, a percentage of all retail sales at La Plates goes to charity. Uptown Liz is a fabulous website that highlights only companies that give back. You can shop by the organization that you want to support or by product. Recently the owner of Uptown Liz, Ramona Russell, asked La Plates to share their reasons for giving back. Here's what they featured in their December newsletter:

"Lara Hazelett Shelton grew up with a mother who was a "professional volunteer" and dedicated her career to nonprofit organizations. "She never said 'no' to a fundraiser or organization that needed her help," says Shelton. In 2004, Shelton lost her mother suddenly to ovarian cancer; she knew that she would continue her mother's legacy one day.

With 1 and 3 year old boys, the Shelton tabletop was lacking in kid-friendly style. It was cartoon plastic plates or the good china - there had to be a happy medium. In May of 2008, Shelton decided to take the plunge into the "mompreneurial" world and La Plates was born.

"La Plates produces personalized melamine plates and accessories with style. We bring creative design, fun color and class to your table without any hassle. All of our products have a personalized touch; we make them custom, just for you," explains Shelton. The company donates a percentage of all sales to various causes, most focusing on women's (ovarian cancer) and children's health issues.

Since launching La Plates in 2008, products have been featured in Coastal Living, Self, Lucky, Country Living, Southern Living, Paula Deen and most recently, in the Harper's Bazaar Holiday Gift Guide. La Plates are available online and at boutiques throughout the country."

NY Observer PLAYGROUND

2009-12-09T18:41:00.001-08:00

Could it be, La Plates so close to Gossip Girl? OK, so we just happen to be within a magazine in which Kelly Rutherford is on the cover, but we love it! Michelle, from NY Observer Playground and Chic Baby New York, was kind enough to contact us about including La Plates in their Holiday Shopping for Kids section. She picked 2 of our little boy favorites - horizontal STRIPE with american text. Checkout the mag:

Holiday delivery 2009

2009-11-29T08:55:00.001-08:00

We hope you are enjoying a fabulous holiday season! The La Plates elves are scurrying around to create all the holiday gifts for fans near and far. In order to get everything delivered to customers by December 24th, we must receive your online order by Friday, December 4th at 11:59pm, central time. We will produce orders all December, but we can't guarantee a pre-Christmas delivery after the 4th. Selecting Overnight or 3-Day Select UPS service can rush the shipping, but our production time is still 10-15 business days.

Harper's Bazaar - love it!

2009-11-11T13:01:00.000-08:00

Be sure to pick up the December 2009 issue of Harper's Bazaar. Their holiday gift guide is FABULOUS and includes La Plates Platter in the "Personalized" section of the guide! They really do have a great collection of items...of course we're a little partial to the bottom right area of page 180!

La Plates SQUARES platter - background light blue, script monogram navy - is available at www.laplates.com for $34. Order by December 5th for Christmas delivery.

Holiday is in the air!

2009-11-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

I was racing through Target today, picking up some last minute items before heading to our next trunk show. When all of a sudden, I realized it's really the holiday season! The trees & lights are up, holiday tunes are ringing and I got that little spring in my step!

Now, before my holiday ways are tarnished, I'm whipping up a little treat for all you La Plates fans. We just added 6.5" salad/dessert plates to our holiday collection and we want to give a few away. Until Wednesday, 11/11 at 11:11pm (central), buy 2 sets of identical salad/dessert plates and we'll give you a 3rd set FREE!

Seriously, who couldn't use a set of these fabulous plates? They are great for breakfast rolls, salads, desserts, appetizers, after school snacks, bridge parties, poker night, tailgating, holiday parties, hostess gifts, the list goes on!!

Buy 2 sets of identical salad/dessert plates and we will automatically add a 3rd set FREE! But only if you order by 11/11 at 11:11pm.

Colin Cowie comes to KC

2009-11-06T12:13:00.000-08:00

We have been on a whirlwind of a trunk show tour. However, a friend of La Plates delivered a platter to one of our favorite party planners - Colin Cowie. Mr. Cowie was in town for the American Royal Tablescapes event - hosted at Mary Carol Garrity's Nell Hills.Rumor has it, he loved his platter! Brown Greek with Orange Circle monogram "CC", bon appetit Colin!

New products, just in time for holiday gifting!

2009-10-30T11:04:00.000-07:00

You asked for them and we listened! La Plates has designed salad/dessert plates, just in time for the holidays! Seriously, how cute would these be for gifts to your girlfriends, family - or yourself?! These 6.5" plates are sold in a set of 4 and are designed to match our 10" lunch/dinner plates. But we think these sets are so cute, they could even stand alone! Be sure to order these soon, they are available only for a limited time.
Next up on our list of new favs - the La Plates Catch All. How practical AND fabulous?! The khaki canvas bags come with an accent color of cherry (shown), black, caramel, avocado, denim, mango or lilac. You can select gold or embossed for the monogram. All monograms are created with a block style font, so we recommend doing them in first, middle, last order - or a two letter monogram is cute too!

Back to School in Hollywood!

2009-10-19T06:29:00.000-07:00

What's cookin' at La Plates?

2009-10-16T20:51:00.000-07:00

We always test out new items at our trunk shows. This way, we can get personal feedback on items & see what we should bring to the website. This fall, a favorite of customers has been our La Plates Recipe Box. Seriously, how cute is this? I love that I can transfer all my favorite family recipes...written in the handwriting of loved ones...into my hip, personalized recipe box. There's even a place to secure the "recipe of honor". I hate to say it, but it almost inspires me to cook more often!

Included with the personalized recipe box are labeled dividers, blank recipe cards and a La Plates cover card.