Miss Gracie Hair Bows

We're Back!

2011-10-26T02:50:00.000+01:00

Whew! After two weeks of reading manuals and emailing Help (I could think of other words) Desks, Miss Gracie is finally trading online again.

Simple & Practical

2011-09-23T15:08:00.000+01:00

Customers talk about our hair bows and often what they have to say is about the clips and the quality; how well they stay in and how beautifully they are made. We have taken the suggestion of creating sturdy, simple clips for school. A variation on the Chloe clip, a two prong pinch clip covered in simple saddle stitch ribbon. More colours plus mini dot ribbon will be arriving soon and best of all they are made in the UK!

Back to school...

2011-09-13T15:56:00.000+01:00

A week ago we snapped this year's "First Day of School" photo and each day I plan to add it to the blog. Uniform ironed, hair tidy and in lovely Miss Gracie hair bows but what to write? Could I be a bit clever or funny? What made our first day back something someone, besides our family, would want to see or read about? So I left it. No photo, no "story" until this morning when I stepped over the Lego again.

I have been stepping over this little Lego Mermaid and all the "bits" that accompany her for a week. Perched on her rock, gazing at a starfish while Merman gently rocks the Merbaby in the back ground (the dogs seem to be just "dogs", not "Merdogs"; no fishtails) and for some unknown reason the chosen play space is inconveniently, a doorway we all pass through regularly. This is my "back to school" photo. It is easy to remember the uniform, the hair bows, the smiles and the anticipation but I want to remember everything else. Long afternoons when we had time to "play", the round rock from Devon and the flat stone from Scotland, the Mer-Lego from her fourth birthday, the Pirate ship from the charity shop, the little starfish from California, Playmobil dogs and their tiny dog treats, the blue fleece blanket and the un-hoovered floor.

Term time now and the toys are hardly touched as school, homework and activities fill our days. I will leave Mermaid and her family until the weekend but then it is back to the playroom. Mermaid will have to consider her playroom options; she can either borrow the Playmobil's camper van or move into the Regency Hotel with the Sylvanians.

"Do you make these?"

2011-08-10T23:59:00.000+01:00

As the proprietor of Miss Gracie Hair Bows, the question I am asked the most is, "do you make these?". The times I have been tempted to say "yes" and take the credit for the beautifully crafted hair bows is too many count; oh how I would love to be that talented!

I consider myself "crafty". I am a dab hand at play date art or buying up half of an art shop in anticipation of a school project but I know by the end results that it is best I remain the retailer, not the maker. So who makes the beautiful Miss Gracie hair bows? "Mums", "Moms" and "Mamans" with artistic flair, an eye for detail and a great deal of patience. Some of them have hair bow making businesses while others are talented crafters and when asked if they would consider making hair bows, they agreed to the task. Thanks to email, Twitter and Facebook, we can communicate across time zones, in three currencies and between nap times and school runs.

You don't have to be a mother to be a hair bow maker for Miss Gracie, it just seems to have worked out that way.

Summer is upon us!

2011-07-12T14:48:00.000+01:00

School term nearly over and as always, June and July fly by! Assemblies, Sports Days, visiting relatives and this year we have thrown new jobs for Mr Gracie and I into the mix! Roll on slower summer days, camping, Cornwall and sand between our toes. We'll be back after a much needed relaxing break.

Please email your requests for September school hair bows to info@missgracie.co.uk to ensure we save them for you.

Happy Summer!

http://www.stives-cornwall.co.uk/about-stives.html

May Half Term

2011-06-10T15:27:00.000+01:00

Four relaxing days in Scotland as guests in our friend's beautiful home. The only decision we had to make all weekend was which "pebble" to bring home. After much deliberating we chose "Haggis" pictured on the right.

2011-05-22T19:24:00.000+01:00

High on my list of favourite local places is the Bekonscot Model Village . Each time we visit the children spot new additions to the small world: another boat on the lake, more animals in the zoo or another building. The "real fire" in the thatched cottage and the responding fire truck is a favourite as is remembering to look for Noddy at the door of Enid Blyton's home. We will be headed there again this Tuesday to introduce this little world to our young friends visiting from the USA. They may have Disneyland, unlimited sunshine & Hollywood but they don't have "Model Village".

Birdy Birdy

2011-05-10T15:42:00.002+01:00

Peering at me through the clear plastic boxes in my office are these gorgeous birdy clip holders and tooth keepers meticulously created for Miss Gracie by the talented Marie at HeartFelt Handmade. Each time I pack one up to post I automatically say Shel Silverstien's poem in my mind:

Oh, if you're a bird, be an early bird
And catch the worm for your breakfast plate.
If you're a bird, be an early early bird-
But if you're a worm, sleep late.

2011-04-27T13:19:00.000+01:00

What to write about the school holidays, Easter weekend and another Bank holiday to come? This photo sums up all that needs to be said. Sunshine, hammock, bunting, blossoms, rubber duck and friends.

Made in Scotland

2011-04-05T16:04:00.000+01:00

Introducing the latest additon to the Miss Gracie range, the Lucy polka dot hair bow. A crafty mummy in Scotland is creating these hair bows for us. We like her colour choices, red or navy to match school uniform, lime, hot pink or orchid for Easter but our favourite is sea mist. A great match to the Spring collection from Joules.

Party Time

2011-03-08T14:30:00.001Z

Our household is having one of those months when there is a playmate's birthday party every week. Time for gift buying. I used the stack of invites as an excuse for some online retail therapy so we are wrapped and ready. Of course the pretty parcels include Miss Gracie clips. Blossom & the Simone bow this time plus a charm bracelet from Daisy & Mouse with a cupcake charm. All wrapped up with "lots of curly whirly ribbon" and finished with a beautiful personalised gift tag from Fraser & Parsley. Easy, peasy thanks to online shopping!

2011-03-02T15:31:00.000Z

A sneaky peak of what is to come. Bottlecap clips with her initial. My 9 year old and her pals have flipped for them.

Samples

2011-03-01T21:39:00.003Z

Glancing back at some old Miss Gracie photos and I spotted this.
Wow! Let's party!

I do need to mention that it was a sample and lil' mg never actually wore it out in public.

A Good Week

2011-02-25T14:59:00.000Z

Sketching Chinese Dragons at the Victoria & Albert Museum

Lively music at the Royal Albert Hall

Spotting celebs at the Burberry show, London Fashion Week

Cycle ride in the sunshine

A morning of baking and product testing the new "Lauren" hair bow.

All in all, a good week.

Half Term

2011-02-16T11:47:00.000Z

Half Term. Some mums dread it some mums love it. I am one of those in the love it group. I love the time. Time to do lots or time to do nothing. The week always flies by much too quick, a couple of days out, a pajama day in. I always end up tired as I then work at night to allow me kid time in the day but it is the kid time I just don't like to miss. Yes, I am one of those annoying mums who enjoys the kid activities as much as the kids. Ask me how many times I have seen the Bubble Show at the Science Museum? I may be to embarrassed to answer.

This half term we are doing our usual "find a fantastic and free activity in London" day and we have chosen the Ignite Family Concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Always exciting to visit such a beautiful venue. Weather permitting we will picnic in Kensington Gardens otherwise we will be slurping noodles at Wagamama's on High St. Ken.

We never have a winter half term without a visit to feed the lambs. We cycle to Odds Farm Park, and join the crowd to feed the over excited lambs and play with the "kids". Love those goats!

If I do need to squeeze in some work in the daylight hours then the kids will be off to Mop End a lesser know option for fantastic school holiday activities. Mop End is the South Bucks venue for the Field Studies Council. We have enjoyed fantastic days in the woods with enthusiastic guides building dens, open fires and solving Harry Potter mysteries.

Must go get some work done if I am going to play next week! Happy half term!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T23:04:00.000Z

I know it is just a coincidence but I think it rather fun that three of today's orders were made up entirely of pink or red, the colours of the Valentine. I presume the red hair bows are for school but I know the box of pink are on their way to three ballet loving sisters. Enjoy your hair bows girls and Happy Valentines Day!

Isabel

2011-02-11T13:48:00.000Z

Just a sneak peak at what is to come. Little Isabel hair bows in yummy colours. Like little scoops of gelato on a warm sunny day.

Girl Guiding

2011-02-06T16:51:00.000Z

Each year on 22 February, Girl Guides and Girl Scouts all over the world celebrate World Thinking Day. World Thinking Day theme for 2011 is MDG 3: girls worldwide say “empowering girls will change our world” and the aim is to raise awareness of the situation for many girls and young women and empower them to take a stand against inequality. Gender equality and empowering women is the third of the eight areas of focus made by 189 world leaders at the United Nations Millennium Summit in 2000. You may think this is a big topic for little girls but in true Guiding fashion even the youngest members of Guiding can begin to understand this topic and the role they can play in promoting gender equality.

Lil mg always looks forward to Thinking Day and this year the activities look to once again be thought provoking, exciting and most important to a 9 year old, Fun! For more information on UK Girl Guides or how your daughter can get involved in Girl Guides,visit www.girlguiding.org.uk

Each week our local Brownies and Rainbows take part in crafts, games, songs, friendship, sports, drama, cooking... the list seems endless. To the girls, it is all friendship and fun but as a mother of a daughter I love that she is learning about the wider world and the part she can play.

Young Talent

2011-02-03T01:30:00.002Z

Isn't this beautiful? I had the pleasure of being introduced to a friend of a friend recently. She and her family are in London for a few months and they were given my email by a mutual friend. I often play host to friends of friends who are passing through London and this recent meeting was an absolute pleasure! Not only did I get to lunch at the Natural Kitchen (always delicious and in my favourite neighbourhood) and make a new friend but I also met her daughter, Tasha Bock. I am sharing her full name as it is one to remember. I am sure we will be hearing her name in the fashion world one day.

This beautiful headband is one of Tasha's creations. You can view more on her website www.macallisterdesigns.com but what is even more impressive than this gorgeous collection of headbands? Tasha does not have years of design experience, she has only just finished high school! Spending a few months in London, inspired by her favourite things; Liberty, Downtown Abbey, historic interiors, then she is off to university. We wish Tasha the best of luck and we look forward to her future creations.

Unsatisfactory

2011-01-19T15:49:00.000Z

It had to happen sometime, more than three years into my little hair bow business and I have had my first quality issue. I am a bit of a stickler for quality. If I order a style of hair bow then I expect each hair bow to be exactly the same as the other, the colours to match the sample and for them to "withstand little fingers and playground play". So far so good... until now. Blame it on the big freeze, temperatures high in the atmosphere (some bows do travel by air) or overnights in the postman's truck but a selection of the hair bows just do not like the cold. Unfortunately when some glue freezes it becomes brittle and no longer does the job. I have had feedback this week that the ribbon on both the Simone and the Charlotte styles was lifting from the clip. Please if you have purchased these styles and you have had a problem, do not hesitate to contact me.

Both these styles will continue to be offered but the faulty product is being replaced. The maker is one of my best when it comes to detail and styling and she quickly rectified the problem when it was brought to our attention.

Feedback is always helpful. Thank you to both Miss Gracie customers who high lighted this problem. The fact that you took the time to email me is greatly appreciated.

"Hi!"

2011-01-14T10:42:00.000Z

Miss Gracie's little friend Maddie popped by to say "hi" and brightened up my misty grey morning!

It only takes one...

2011-01-09T17:55:00.000Z

One little hair bow on top of a birthday gift to a little friend who would never let her mother put anything in her hair. Now the little friend won't dress without it! Her mum has just rung to ask for one more of the same just in case it should get lost. Happy mummy, she is a bit of a Joules fan and "the bow matches everything!" and another happy little Miss Gracie friend.

Twitter

2011-01-06T13:41:00.000Z

Well that's us! Lil Miss Gracie, myself and Mr M. Lil MG often features in our photos as she is our resident hair bow tester. Thanks to the wonders of Twitter I decided to share a photo of me. This does not mean that my followers on Twitter were begging to see a photo. It is because in my new found joy that is Twitter I have discovered that my followers and followees actually live in my little world. We coffee, shop and school run in the same places but we wouldn't know each other if we passed on the footpath.

Before I joined Twitter I didn't get the point of it. I only joined, as like the blog, it is considered a marketing tool. Well... let me tell you, it is more that that! As someone who lives for the weekend papers, it is heaven. Little snippets of news constantly streaming in, a network of supportive career and home based mums, recommendations of new books to read, where the best sales are, recipes, who is watching what on TV, traffic updates, weather, celebrity gossip, fashion, parenting tips, craft ideas - It is all there! Yes, it has done what it was meant to regarding marketing Miss Gracie but for me, it is like stopping for a coffee with a large and eclectic group of friends. Someone always has something to say and I can pop into whatever conversation suits my mood and when I am in front of my laptop at 1am it is nice to know their are other crazy mums out there doing the same.

Twitter followers in Sydney, New York or Edinburgh you probably won't bump into me but if you are in South Bucks, say "hi".

Priorities

2011-01-03T16:27:00.000Z

A new year and so much to do! First thing on my list is to purchase new bunting for the climbing frame. Yes, my life must be rather blessed if this is top of my "to do" list. Actually it should be action item number 1,726 on the list but... a little break from admin and a visit to Charlotte Macey's moved the action item forward. At the moment when I glance out of the window at cloudy skies and bare trees I see this:

Our once vibrant and much loved gingham bunting has seen too many years. Charlotte's gorgeous bunting should spruce things up a bit and I think the neighbours will appreciate it as well. They did mention, "how long have you had that bunting?" I guess I should take the hint!

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T21:58:00.000Z

The first day of the New Year and Miss Gracie is looking ahead. Office tidied today, bows counted and replenishment orders placed. Glad I checked on things because already my new favourite is running low on stock. Blossom is not a bow but the cutest flower. Hand knit then carefully attached to a pinch clip. This gorgeous flower is already a best seller.

2010-12-28T18:47:00.000Z

Happy post Christmas. Four relaxing days at home, many friends, never enough family, an abundance of food and so many lovely cards and gifts. I love that our Lil Miss has included a pink hair bow on her card this year. That's my girl!

2010-12-23T23:41:00.000Z

Today was spent amongst the shoppers in London's West End. A family tradition to go and see the windows and the lights plus Mr M escorts Lil Miss away for an hour of "shopping for Mommy". So many lights and beautiful shop windows but this little mouse in the Liberty window is the family favourite.

2010-12-23T01:29:00.000Z

I wish I could blame it on the snow but these hair bows began their journey long before the first snowfall. Miss Gracie's darling Christmas bows finally arrived today. I couldn't resist letting you have a sneak peek for next year. A few local Miss Gracie girls are keen to collect theirs in the morning and our own little Miss has worn hers already but the rest will stay safely tucked away. Thinking positive; one less task to do for Christmas 2011!

2010-12-12T22:58:00.002Z

Fresh colours, bold patterns and a little jewel to add some sparkle. A beautiful and practical gift. Small enough to pop in her kit bag and pretty enough to give as a present.

2010-12-05T21:49:00.001Z

Someone is on Santa's naughty list! Seven boxes tracked since the 1st of November and the one to go missing has the Christmas bows in it? Not impressed! Sweet little bows with snowflakes and a bit of sparkle were going to brighten up this chilly season. To cheer me up it has to be the classic Charlotte bow; Christmas red, small or full size, pinch clip or barrette, for the good little girl on your gift list.

2010-11-28T23:17:00.001Z

Our ever popular hair clip holders are back in stock just in time for Christmas. Choose from a ribbon bow (pictured) or a wooden heart. Each has one metre of ribbon on which to store her clips. A mum pleasing tidy storage solution and a colourful accessory for her bedroom.

2010-11-18T19:02:00.000Z

All I want for Christmas is a Fairy Post Box from Daisy & Mouse. Actually that is not really what I want but I do wish I had someone to buy it for. Notes and envelopes, rubber stamps, postage stamps and little toadstool shaped paper clips all come tucked inside the gorgeous tin postbox. It is the tin I am really after. Maybe I could just pop it on my desk in lieu of my "in" tray.

2010-11-07T18:25:00.000Z

They all do it. Mummy's lipstick left unattended is just too tempting for little hands. I have friends whose children have lipsticked the walls, the leather car interior, the dog and each other. Thankfully our little miss just loves a big lipstick grin and always insists on a photo.

2010-10-25T01:37:00.000+01:00

We are often asked why we stayed on this side of the world when we came for just three years many years ago. Today was one of those days to remind us why.

The weather was beautiful (autumn sunshine), we enjoyed a hassle free train and tube journey (it's true!), dined at Carluccio's (kid's meals free during half term), small people had manicures at Hamley's (we succumbed!) and best of all - family concert with the LSO at the Barbican. If you haven't enjoyed a concert with kids and the LSO then put it on your London must do list. Just an hour plus a selection of crafts and activities beforehand. The LSO understands how to grab the kid's attention. Today they made instruments, attended a singing workshop, had a go (see photo) and the concert ended with a Scottish Piper. A very good Sunday in a city we love.

2010-10-20T14:02:00.000+01:00

We do love hair bows but another bow we love is the one tied around a yummy box of treats from Biscotti Kitchen. Friends in the north can sample these tasty treats at the BBC Good Food show in Glasgow this weekend and everyone else can find them online at Biscotti Kitchen. I recommend the Fig and Cinnamon with a cup of tea. mmmmmmmmmmmmm

2010-10-17T22:53:00.000+01:00

Tuesday, I have been reliably informed, will bring the delivery of the long awaited return of the Katie bow. Katie is the perfect bow "for school, parties, or play". Big enough to top a pony tail, not too big for pig tails and so cute as a top knot. School colours due in first and fashion colours not long to follow.

2010-10-13T23:59:00.001+01:00

And then I spotted Mr Hootie. I love online shopping and I always blabber on about how convenient it is AND how much easier it is to stick to a budget when you are not tempted by something more in store. So how is it that I now have Mr Hootie winging his way to me at this very moment? Because he was just too cute! After all it is October, Halloween is just around the corner and we are huge Harry Potter fans so a very justifiable purchase!

Ps. I did also order Christmas ornaments for my daughter's friends. So cute, beautifully made in England by the very clever Marie at Heartfelt Handmade. I know, it is only October.

Fraser & Parsley

2010-10-05T20:32:00.005+01:00

Ticking tasks off of my "to do" list, I wish birthday present shopping was always this easy. I use any excuse to indulge in the beautiful stationary from Fraser & Parsley and this time it is something for the girls. The "Hollywood" note cards are the perfect gift now that my daughter's friends have reached the very grown up age of nine. We have chosen the colour "lipstick pink". I think the girls will love having something personalised and their mums will appreciate the practicality. Beautifully gift wrapped from Fraser & Parsley, we will be adding the finishing touch and topping the gift with a bespoke gift tag. I just couldn't resist!

2010-09-28T07:03:00.002+01:00

Replenishment stock! The little Simone bow arrived today. A favourite in our house for school - Side parting, two pigtails and a little Simone bow on the right.

2010-09-26T22:07:00.002+01:00

Miss Gracie loves to receive photos of girls in our bows. Miss Gracie hair bows "for school, parties and play"... and washing up!

Ella Bow

2010-09-13T20:10:00.004+01:00

Oh sweet Ella bow you are finally here. You come from far away but you are oh so cute, it was worth the wait.

Hannah Bow

2010-09-08T14:24:00.003+01:00

The Hannah bow remains a favourite and not just because the Hannah bow is named for our little bow wearer. Tied without ribbon tails, the Hannah bow can be worn to the left side, right side, on a top knot or at the back and the double prong pinch clip with the extra grip helps it stay in place. I always think if it as a bow for the little ones because of the size and it is so durable but my high school babysitters have all gone back to school with a side parting and a Hannah bow. Miss Gracie is cute and practical and now she is in fashion!

2010-08-17T14:27:00.004+01:00

The slightest occasion in our house and the question is aways "can we get cakes?" I used to be slightly insulted because we do bake and isn't homemade always best? Our Christmas cookies are an annual event, brownies seem to be necessary if it is raining (a few too many lately) and their is nothing better than a warm chocolate chip cookie but then we met "SusieCakes!" Susie is the creative baker at Angelic Cupcakes and the person we call upon when it is celebration time.

I have totted up the occasions this year and Angelic Cupcakes was deemed necessary at 2 family birthdays, 1 Holy Communion, Grandma's visit, as hostess gifts, 2 50th birthdays, 1 40th and as a raffle prize at my daughter's school - whew! Her creative efforts have saved me allot of time and I know the recipients were happier with the outcome. Delicious cake, icing you actually want to eat and each cake decorated just enough to be pretty but not so much that their is more sugar than cake.

My experience running a business that fits around the family usually means late nights or early mornings at the computer and I often wonder how these home baking woman do it. I had visions of toddlers under foot, batter dripping off the Aga onto the dog and dawn icing sessions but then I visited Angelic Cakes and boy was I wrong! A kitchen so clean Mary Poppins would be proud, an inventory of decorations in plastic boxes sealed and labelled, sugar, flour and eggs neatly stored and dated and two of the cutest little girls who responded well to "go play and then you can have cake". Wish I had an offer as tempting as that when I need to get some work done!

2010-07-28T17:05:00.004+01:00

Well I knew this day would come. My almost nine year old announced today that she would like to redecorate her room "when I turn 10". The lovely red gingham I chose before her arrival because it was so fresh and suitable for a boy or girl will go. Over the years I have mixed in pillow cases for a bit of fun; Cath Kidston boats, Laura Ashley gymkhana, Pottery Barn animals and I even succumbed to a bit of Disney. She would like her room to have "lighty greeny colours" inspired by her wonderful frog pillow.

The coveted frog pillow, a gift from her Auntie, is from my favourite website Pillowfolly.com . The tag line "like jewellery for your sofa" says it all. One of the best browsing websites I have visited, always fresh, the fabrics are beautiful and the site is perfect for those late night shopping temptations. Now I have just over a year to find some green gingham sheets and to break the news to my daughter that her bedroom walls will remain white.

2010-07-17T09:07:00.003+01:00

Our friend Issie and her Miss Gracie bow. Never leave home without one! We noticed in this year's holiday snaps that she not only took along her bows but swapped styles throughout the day. That's our girl!

2010-06-29T14:02:00.004+01:00

A mum to admire (worship or ... ). Had an email with 19 darling girl's names, a customer would like a personalised clip holder for each. She had just received the class list for her daughter's reception class next term. 19 gorgeous Miss Gracie packages wrapped and ready in her cupboard for future birthday parties. Job done! That is an organised mum!

2010-06-24T12:23:00.004+01:00

Whew! Time to focus on Miss Gracie after a very busy week. Greek Day, Sports Day and Book Day all in the same week? I would like to have a word with the person who put the school diary together. Just when it all seems too much, an image like this makes it all worth while - A very happy Pippi!

2010-06-13T23:06:00.001+01:00

"Will we be friends forever", asked Piglet. "Even longer", Pooh answered.

2010-05-27T22:42:00.002+01:00

Fraser and Parsley are constantly tempting me with their gorgeous stationary and now they are adding beautiful cupcake wrappers to their range. Looking closely, I think one of the girls parading along on this perfectly pink wrapper even has a bow in her hair. Time for a Miss Gracie tea party!

2010-05-18T21:17:00.003+01:00

A beautiful little girl, her handsome big brother and a Miss Gracie bow. Thank you to Maddie's mummy for sharing her photos. I would normally publish the one which best shows the bow but this was too good to pass up.

Claudia

2010-05-09T17:20:00.002+01:00

Claudia is a pretty twist on the basic school headband. Like all of our headbands, the ribbon is wrapped on a very comfortable and pliable band and an iron-on name label can be applied to the underside.

Chichiboulie

2010-05-06T20:14:00.004+01:00

So cute I had to share. My talented friend Gretchen at Chichiboulie has created these gorgeous invites and party bag labels for my daughter's upcoming First Holy Communion.

Charlotte

2010-04-30T09:43:00.005+01:00

The newest addition to our circle of friends. Not enough hair yet for a bow but a promise to her big sister led to a collection of bows being named Charlotte. The Charlotte bow is almost as cute as the real thing.

2010-04-24T15:00:00.005+01:00

Beautiful little girls celebrating a birthday. Party dresses, cake, crafts and home made decorations. I would love to say this was at our house as it is all just so very lovely but it is miles away in New York and the hostess is a mum I have never met. Why do I know about it? Well this very creative mum with a beautiful family authors a blog and I now have to admit, I do read it quit regularly.

Last year some smart marketing friends told me Miss Gracie needed a blog. Why? "As a marketing tool that will cost you nothing but time". Ah hah! Now blogging had my attention. I did my research (late night surfing) and started blogging. Miss Gracie's blog is an opportunity to shout about new product and a little bit of how the business mixes with our family life. Your comments are always welcome, do email me photos of your girls in MG bows and with your permission I will blog them.

Blogs worth a peek:

mysixinthecity adventures of moving a family of 6 from suburbia to NYC

The Crafty Crow if you are ever stuck for inspiration for kids crafts

ikeahacker inspiring ideas to give Ikea furniture a personal twist

hostesswiththemostess fab ideas for kid parties and entertaining

2010-04-21T14:24:00.003+01:00

It was a sunny, beach filled weekend. Bliss!
Miss Gracie girls now consider themselves surfer girls so I better get to work designing hair bobbles to match their wetsuits.

2010-04-15T21:33:00.005+01:00

Busy week! Audrey bows have arrived, replenishment orders chased, gorgeous new colours chosen for the Charlotte bows and two new headbands designed - Lauren and Payton will be here later this spring.

A cleared desk always make heading off on holiday a teeny bit nicer. Just a mini weekend at the seaside this time but sunshine is forecast which makes this California girl very happy!

2010-04-07T12:27:00.008+01:00

Cake baking, cake eating and friends to play easily fills these school holiday days.

2010-03-31T14:02:00.002+01:00

The weather may be telling us otherwise but it is Spring and it is Easter. The bright pink and fresh apple green of the Niamh bow just seems to say "Happy Spring!"

2010-03-26T16:55:00.003Z

"Girls in the Lead" is the theme of Girl Guiding UK. This is our little Rainbow proudly displaying her badge for completing her time as a Rainbow and now it is off to Brownies. More friends, adventures and girls taking the lead in a variety of activities, projects and most importantly - FUN!

The girls of Beaconsfield currently meet in a very drafty and damp "Guide Hut" but they are well on their way to raising funds to build their new "Headquarters" and Miss Gracie is keen to help. We have designed head bands and pony elastics to match both the Rainbow and Brownie uniforms and £1 from each will be donated to the building fund.

Spot the Hair Bows

2010-03-23T14:24:00.005Z

Sometimes she makes her bed without being asked and today was a particularly good effort! Her well coordinated hair bow wearing friends made me smile. How many hair bows can you spot? The first correct answer emailed to info@missgracie.co.uk will win a hair bow. Be sure and include your post address on the email.

The Matilda Bow

2010-03-03T14:28:00.002Z

A name can conjure up an image and Matilda is always a happy one for me. She is cute and giggly, a girl with tree climbing talent but not too much of a tomboy to forgo a bow in her hair. Roald Dahl's Matilda is my kind of girl and this is the bow I would pop in her hair. Red because pink just wouldn't be her style, grosgrain ribbon so the mud would wash off and a pinch clip so she could "do it myself".

2010-02-15T23:43:00.002Z

Why do I always succumb to a freezing afternoon at the farm during February half term? I love the farm on sunny days, feeding the lambs, spotting the new bunnies, losing the kids in the maze. But in February? I hugged my steaming mug of tea (they do make good tea) and then realised we used to visit the farm most weeks and now we may make it there twice a year. I will be terribly said the day I suggest the farm... and the kids have other half term plans.

2010-02-06T15:05:00.003Z

Local to Beaconsfield? Miss Gracie will be at the High March School Coffee & Shopping morning this Thursday the 11th of February. Pop into the Upper School between 8:45 and 11am.

2010-01-29T14:13:00.003Z

Miss G is so pleased! After many requests for a mirror in her room we have found the perfect solution, "a beauty station". Now I do not think an 8 year old needs a "beauty station", GLTC where I bought the ideal mirror has named it that but it is just perfect! A slim two door cupboard attaches to the wall and opens to reveal a mirror plus lots of storage. It is the storage bit that we are loving. Teamed with a Miss Gracie hair clip holder, it is hair bobble & bow nirvana! No more bows left on the side of the bath. Why leave them lying about when Miss G can organise them in her "beauty station". So far she has spent more time organising the bits and bobs than she has looking in the mirror. Long may it last.

2010-01-23T00:42:00.003Z

"Coming soon", a phrase that I am using too much lately but with postal delays due to weather, a photographer who actually has a "day job" to see to and the talented creators who are tying bows as quick as they can; new bows are "coming soon". In the meantime I have decide to create the unthinkable - a coming soon image. UGH! I find it so frustrating to be shopping online and not be able to see what it is I am so keenly seeking. Needs must so I am popping in the image on bow styles that are already offered, it is just the colour that is new. The image will not be there for long - the bows will be finished, the postman will deliver and the photographer will have a free Saturday afternoon - "soon".

2010-01-13T14:00:00.002Z

Sorry girls, no school today. I guess you'll have to spend another day in the snow.

2010-01-07T23:16:00.004Z

2010! While readying myself for this brand new year I came upon this old photo of the first retail days of Miss Gracie. I laughed at the products on offer (some items were just terrible!) and how small a part the hair bows played. Now it is all about the hair bow and never could I have imagined having a business dedicated completely to hair bows or that I would sell them to customers worldwide. The sticky dots on our world map tell the story. Spain, Italy, Switzerland, France, the USA, Singapore, Belgium, Hong Kong, Australia... Thank you to all Miss Gracie customers, family and friends worldwide. We wish you a very Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-23T00:10:00.008Z

Wishing you a wonderful Christmas full of magic and memories.

Baking Day

2009-12-15T00:02:00.004Z

Sunday afternoon at the gingerbread factory and the intense concentration of Miss Gracie and friends. Not one cheeky grin at the camera as the girls work hard at their task.

And after all of their hard work?

Slumber party!

Stocking Filler

2009-12-02T21:52:00.002Z

Any pony mad princess would be happy to find these pony hair clips in her Christmas stocking.

Gingerbread Men Recipe

2009-11-23T22:09:00.002Z

If she has the Gingerbread Men bow, she will need the recipe to go with it. This is an easy one.

Makes approx 16 Gingerbread Men - 350g (12 oz) plain flour, 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda, 2 tsp ground ginger 110g (4 oz), diced butter 175g (6 oz), soft light brown sugar, 4 tbsp golden syrup, 1 beaten egg, currants - to decorate.

Method: Preheat oven to 190 °C / 375 °F / Gas 5. Sift the flour, bicarbonate of soda and ginger into a mixing bowl. Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs, stir in the sugar. Beat the syrup into the egg the stir into the flour mixture. Knead this dough until smooth, divide in half. Roll out, half at a time, on a floured surface until about 0.5 cm (¼ inch) thick. Using a cookie cutter, cut out gingerbread men until all the dough has been used up, re-rolling and cutting the trimmings. Repeat with the second half of the dough. Place the gingerbread men on greased baking sheets and decorate with currants to represent eyes and buttons. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Leave on the baking sheets to cool slightly, transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Then eat! Bite their heads off or feet first? I always leave their little head until last. Somehow it just makes me feel better.

Gingerbread Bow

2009-11-20T15:39:00.004Z

Gingerbread men are always irresistible even when printed as a simple shape. Printed in white on chocolate brown ribbon, this little bow is the perfect accessory for cookie baking days.

2009-11-10T08:58:00.003Z

A long Sunday lunch, a trampoline, a three year old and a Chloe clip. Lunch was delicious, the trampoline kept the kids entertained, the three your old was a happy combination of chatter and activity and through it all the Chloe clip stayed put! Never once did her mum say "would you hold my wine while I fix her clip".

2009-11-06T22:29:00.006Z

Loving the spots and the colour combo! A very comfy headband in a sleeve of beautiful ribbon.

2009-11-01T21:51:00.003Z

Halloween fun! As children we planned for weeks what we would be and not necessarily something scary - cowboys, fairies, Disney characters, race car drivers and fireman were all acceptable choices. The dressing up box existed long into our teen years as the previous year's costumes were altered to create something new. A hula skirt became a rather itchy scarecrow wig and the cowboy waistcoat and sheriff badge took on a whole new style when worn by a 15 year old in a denim mini skirt. A rather humorous costume was the "bunch of grapes". Purple tights and leotards with many balloons attached was a great idea until we realised we would not be able to sit down all evening.

Fairies, a Ladybird, a Pumpkin, Cinderella and a Cowboy (that same waistcoat, first worn by my brother in 1969) filled the house with laughter this year. Nothing scary just pumpkin carving, too many sweets and lots of fun!

2009-10-22T12:05:00.003+01:00

Simone - A star of a bow! The perfect alternative to the Ella and the Hannah bow, 5cm in length, attached to a pinch clip and just £2.00!

2009-10-12T16:24:00.003+01:00

Never like the mention of Christmas in October but Miss Gracie's hair clip holders are always a sell out and replenishment has just arrived. Very practical and in the popular colours of Pink or Orchid they make a lovely wall decoration for her bedroom. Remember Miss Gracie gift wrapping is always free. Type the word "gift" in the special instruction box at check out.

Blue Bird

2009-10-02T22:13:00.002+01:00

Miss Gracie bows come in over sixty colours but Blue Bird remains my favourite. I think it is the name and it just works with so many other colours. I particularly like it with denim for those jeans and tee shirt days when a bow isn't necessary but she just feels like wearing one anyway.

2009-09-20T22:48:00.003+01:00

Autumn colours have arrived. The Chloe clip is a simple ribbon covered pinch clip but without a bow. Brown, greens and blues - perfect with this season's play clothes.

2009-09-13T22:15:00.004+01:00

As requested, Miss Gracie now offers a really big bow! The Bethany bow is the largest basic bow in the Miss Gracie collection. It measures 15cm and is attached to a 7cm barrette. Currently it is only offered in a few basic colours but if you would like it in more then do let me know.

2009-09-08T00:13:00.003+01:00

Another happy customer! All smiles, hair bows and pirate tattoos?

Sunday in Primrose Hill

2009-09-05T21:27:00.002+01:00

Primrose Hill Summer Fete - Sunday the 6th from noon. Miss Gracie along with Daisy & Mouse and Graham & Green will be amongst the stallholders. Weather looks promising!

2009-08-26T21:26:00.004+01:00

In just a few days Miss Gracie and her friends will be running back to school. Time to get organised, iron the uniform and start getting to bed earlier!

2009-08-23T00:03:00.003+01:00

We have a little secret we would like to share with you. Our holiday home is a chicken coop! Luckily the chickens moved out long ago and now it is a comfortable holiday home in the Tuscan countryside. Beautiful views, a pool to keep the kids entertained and acres of olive groves. Tempted? Email Lucy via www.villaluciaoftuscany.com and tell her you are a friend of Miss Gracie.

2009-08-10T22:32:00.004+01:00

Quick! Before she grows up dress her in these gorgeous Liberty print dresses from Peak Princess. Beautifully made, oh so pretty yet so practical they can be worn everyday. I love that they offer something equally nice for the boys and who could resist adding a Liberty print bunny or teddy to their order?

2009-07-23T23:32:00.003+01:00

Amelia, a very pretty bow. Soft sheer ribbon on a pinch clip available in navy, pink or white.

2009-07-17T16:35:00.004+01:00

Looking for something to do this weekend? Miss Gracie and friends spent Thursday at ART IN ACTION "a four day showcase of excellence in the visual arts and crafts". So much to see, do, listen to, watch and eat! The girls busied themselves modelling castles from clay and creating mosaics while we enjoyed the music, exhibits and Pimms. Located near Oxford on the M40, it is worth slipping into the Wellies for. Click Art in Action for more info.

2009-06-29T23:58:00.003+01:00

So hot today, Miss Gracie and friends headed straight from school to the garden. All that splashing and the hair bow still stayed in place!

Sunshine & Bows

2009-06-16T12:09:00.003+01:00

What a fabulous sunny Sunday in Marylebone! Thank you to Miss Gracie's London customers who popped by to say "hi". The day was a huge success and now it is time to replenish. Gorgeous new bows arriving soon.

Miss Gracie in Marylebone

2009-06-13T02:49:00.003+01:00

This Sunday, June 14th, Miss Gracie will be at the Marylebone Summer Fayre. Find us at stand 33 in the Cabbages & Frocks market opposite Conran.

Ruby Bow - Butterflies

2009-06-07T23:23:00.004+01:00

So perfect for a summer's day. Flutter by little butterfly...

2009-04-30T22:52:00.003+01:00

It was reported by the BBC today that we are in for a warm, dry summer. That is very good news for this California girl. And what does summer mean to a five year old? ICE CREAM!

Ella Hair Bow

2009-03-27T23:35:00.005Z

I joined the hustle and bustle on Regent Street, London this week in search of the perfect party dress for a friend's 40th. Dashing in and out of shops while the weather turned from bad to worse I spotted a little girl who made me smile. Happily skipping up and down the steps of a shop and oblivious to the grown ups dashing past, was this very cute little girl wearing a navy blue Miss Gracie hair bow!

The Ella hair bow is VERY popular but London is a BIG city. Such fun to spot a bow and just how I imagined... on a very happy little girl.

The Audrey Hair Bow

2009-03-11T13:11:00.007Z

Looking forward to Spring. Sunny warm skies and a garden of flowers. As a child I always looked forward to a new "Easter Dress". Something pretty and maybe a lovely cardigan to match just in case the weather isn't quite warm enough. Springtime colours and finished with a bow.

Ruby Hair Bow

2009-02-22T23:03:00.007Z

Oh so sweet! We have added a darling new hair bow to our range. The Ruby hair bow is perfect for fine hair and is offered in both pattern and solid colours. Our Ella hair bow of similar size is so popular we went in search of something equally cute. And a hair bow this cute could only be named for our cute little friend, Ruby!

A Valentine's Lunch

2009-02-16T22:38:00.010Z

In our house any holiday is reason enough to bake cookies and make decorations. This year we decided to introduce Miss Gracie's friends to the traditions of an American Valentine's day. In the UK Valentine's Day is for couples. No paper covered shoe boxes awaiting Valentines, no candy hearts or class parties. We decided to have our own party.
Cupcakes, heart shaped cookies and sandwiches, sweet little heart boxes from the craft shop to paint and best of all Valentines! The girls loved the selection of Valentines I found online to print and food always tastes nicer when it is shaped like a heart. Miss Gracie's Valentine lunch may just become a tradition.

Bow Lady

2009-02-07T01:21:00.009Z

"Are you the hair bow lady?" I never thought I would answer yes to a question like that. I am an American Mom residing in the UK. On a visit to grandma's when my daughter was one, I purchased little hair bows to keep her hair out of her eyes (cutting a fringe was out of the question as I was twelve before I was allowed to grow mine out). Back in the UK on our first trip to the shops, people were commenting on the bow and mums were asking where to buy them. A simple plan to buy a few on my next trip home led to an invite to sell at a school fair, more invites followed and Miss Gracie was launched. Now I am "the bow lady".

My career prior to my current one as mum and bow lady, was in retail. Now I had a product and small customer base, I dreamed of a shop. What else should I sell? Toys, books, gorgeous little gifts, tutus, bedding... the opportunities seemed endless. So many lovely things could be sourced for little girls. BUT a shop would mean overhead, business hours... then my clever (IT expert) husband suggested a website. Perfect! I did add products to my range. They sold but nothing ever matched the popularity of the bows so that is where we are today. Just bows! and I love it!
...and that gorgeous little girl in the photo is my Miss Gracie.

Visit our online shop at www.missgracie.co.uk