The Dandelion Patch

Oh Baby!!

2009-08-25T15:36:00.001-04:00

These quilts are two gifts in one! Lay it on the floor for some all-important "tummy time" with the various textures and adornments, or wrap up your little one so they are "snug as a bug"...either way, they are scrumptious! (And yes-- we have an adorable blue quilt with frogs for your prince.)

We have plenty of pre-packaged gift sets that are perfect for a baby shower or that first visit to the hospital!

These little guys are too cute!

Did I catch you smiling?

Creative, Fun and Originial Invitations....

2009-08-03T08:21:00.003-04:00

Looking for something "out of the box" for your special day? Check out our line of original, hand-finished invitations that reflect luxury from Real Card Studio.

Not only does Real Card Studio create amazing Wedding invitations, but they also have a wonderful line of Bar & Bat Mitzvah and Holiday Cards. If invitations aren't what you are looking for, how about some personalized stationery for that new graduate or as a gift to that bride-to-be? Check out the full line at the Dandelion Patch or at www.realcardstudio.com!

These invitations are sure to be the best first impression of your special event.

Be a Star!!

2009-07-03T16:20:00.004-04:00

This summer, we have the perfect collection of summertime jewelry. Honestly, the first time these came into the store, they never made it onto the floor because our team (the Patchettes) purchased all but 1 or 2 of these pieces! Beyond the colorful bracelets, we have a glittery collection of starfish bobbles for your ears.

Even if you're not Ariel from the famous Disney show, The Little Mermaid (at least it's pretty popular in our household), these freshwater pearl bracelets are a perfect way to update your wardrobe.

Surely you've heard that story about the kid walking along the beach that throws all the starfish back into the sea, even though he can't possibly get to all of them before they die? (if not, read the whole story here.)

This summer, give one of these stars to your someone special and enclose a note that says "it matters to me."

Add a little "happeez" to your life!

2009-06-24T09:24:00.001-04:00

Just last year, the perfect gift was born! Frustrated due to the fact that all notepads and decorative items for the refrigerator were backed with magnetic strips (which don't work for households with stainless steel, glass or wood paneled refrigerators), Sue Russell used her creative juices and some innovation to create Happeez.

These mighty little clips and gadgets grip to stainless steel and other slick surfaces such as glass, mirror, aluminum, plastic or vinyl-- no joke! And if that's not enough-- unlike a magnet, Happeez® products protect surfaces from scratching and marring, and will not leave a residue.

So, we've begun a sample gift list.... it goes something like this:

Busy family? No problem-- try a message board!

New home? No problem-- an adorable note pad, great for honey-do lists.

New baby? Not a problem... try a photo frame that sticks anywhere!

Ohhh, so it's triplets? Got you covered! :-)

Don't forget the most important gift-- the one for you!

It's a grand ol' flag

2009-05-26T16:02:00.008-04:00

Summertime is the season of celebrating all things Americana. From Memorial Day, to 4th of July, and quickly followed by Labor Day-- clearly red, white and blue rule.

These whimsical figurines are both decorative and collectable! I know the saying "Virginia is for lovers"... but with Colonial Williamsburg and Mount Vernon both in Virginia-- we have no excuse to visit, enjoy and remember our nation's history.

These little guys are bursting with American pride!

Oh say, can you see???

These patriotic pieces of art will make you stand a little taller this 4th of July... let freedom ring!

Dads will flip for these gifts!

2009-05-26T15:46:00.010-04:00

Fathers day is right around the corner and we have found the PERFECT gift. When I think of most dads-- I think of them grilling outside on the bbq and watching their favorite college sports team. Mine would also be eating a bag of potato chips and drinking a cold one (or two)....If this sounds like your dad-- then we've got you covered for this sunday.

I think we have every team in the nation.... really! (ok, maybe it just seems that way?) From Clemson to West Virginia, and Penn State to LSU -- Add a little bbq sauce and you will hit the tri-fecta of Father's Day!

These spatulas give a whole new meaning to the word "branded"...

With rings on her fingers...

2009-05-26T15:22:00.005-04:00

The only picture that is missing here is the one with my daughter wearing a ring on each finger (but I thought better of posting it for the world to see)!

She may have gone a little over-board, but seriously, she has a point. For $10 you can afford one of these hand-painted gems for every outfit in your closet!

Even if you don't buy one for yourself (or your darling daughter!), buy one for a glam-grad and forever be considered a rock star!

Teacher Gifts Galore!

2009-05-20T09:29:00.012-04:00

Did you know that Lilly Pullitzer is celebrating 50 years of style this year?

What better way to accent the 50 year old brand than to launch a new line of stationery and gifts...

Your favorite Patch store has the newest collection of Lilly Pulitzer stationery and gift designs! Seriously, there are so many variations of pink and green to choose from that it will be hard not to purchase the entire set!

These colorful circle notes could be great by the phone or on your favorite teacher's desk!

Thank you cards and note cards are always in style! Jackie O' would be so proud to use some of theseTo me, Lilly has always defined summer with a powerful ( and pink) punch....

Look at these darling colorful patterns and envelopes!

Tired of plain-jane organization? Brighten up your files and your day with these cheerful patterned file folders!

Every teacher and mom needs a pink pen!

What better way to have inspired writing than colorful and trendy diaries and journals?

Who says being practical means being boring? Stay stylish with these chic coasters....

Lilly Pulitzer has some exceptionally cute designs, from paper to pens and everything in between! Sometimes those end of the year teacher gifts can be hard to find, though when you see all her new products here, at The Dandelion Patch, you will not have to look far for some adorable and affordable gifts!

Organize in style!

2009-05-13T13:03:00.019-04:00

These adorable, reusable bags are the perfect solution to summer! I can speak from experience that these oil cloth bags wipe up clean after muddy picnics, holds all those water toys and towels that you lug to the beach every summer, keeps your groceries tidy while traveling home from Whole Foods and does it all with style! It's no wonder that these "scout" bags (as their called) have been on Oprah's O-List and featured in almost every magazine you can think of! Treat yourself to one ( or more!) of this season's collection... and add a monogram for that personal touch.

As if they're not delightful enough... the names are just as darling... can you say "twall y'all?"

When life gives you rain, buy some rainboots!

2009-05-06T12:17:00.014-04:00

As the saying goes... spring showers bring May flowers. Well, the rain has come (a little late), and so have our adorable rainboots! These Trumpette rainboots are simply too cute to pass up.

From the Johnny red and blue boots for your prince, to the darling purple and pink Mary Janes for your princess, your little ones will love splashing around in these!

Match your boots with a rain slicker and you have one very stylish "rain queen". I see many photo ops in your future....

So you had a bad day?

2009-04-22T08:26:00.016-04:00

No, we're not selling downloads of the famous American Idol song by Daniel Powter... but we've found the cure for those lousy days: the universal cure to crappy situations is laughter. We're sure you'll love these t-shirts as much as we enjoy giggling at them.

We believe that poking a little fun at ourselves, and the world, is the best was to get through those occasional awful moments. Laughter is the best medicine after all...

So for those of you who aren't eternal optimists, let Life Is Crap be your anthem and wear it proudly. Otherwise, buy yourself a download of the good ol' standby of Bob Marley's Don't Worry Be Happy and turn that frown upside down!

Make room for Mariposa!

2009-04-08T13:59:00.014-04:00

At this time of year, we're eagerly looking forward to spring and summer. We can't wait to embrace these warmer seasons of welcome - a world of garden parties, tall ships, and tropical seas… of gleaming days and glowing nights of entertaining.

Have you seen what's new at The Patch recently? We've expanded our most popular Mariposa line so that we have that perfect "something" for all of your hostess needs. From tennis racquets to graduation hats, Mariposa's spring collection is fun yet elegant.

So you're not familiar with our Mariposa line? Well, it's not the chic hotel on the mountains of Costa Rica, nor is it the famous restaraunt in Deer Valley or even the city in California...

...Mariposa is frankly our absolute favorite gift to give! Since 1980, these beautiful and functional collections of handcrafted aluminum napkin boxes serve as affordable art for any occasion! At $44, one is never enough...

Which flops are your Switch Flops?

2009-03-31T14:26:00.009-04:00

Summer means flip flops! Don't have the perfect pair for every outfit? Then Switch Flops is for you! Switch Flops allows you to switch the style of material according to your mood or outfit! Seriously. The top material velcros on to the base flip flop for a quick switch. We have a wide variety of 'sandal covers' to choose from.

The base shoe comes in three great neutral colors, get all three and you are set for the summer! Changing your shoe style has never been easier.

Buy a pair (or two!)for yourself and a friend and enjoy! Just make sure those tootsies are painted....

Gift Wrapping Please!

2009-03-24T21:50:00.007-04:00

We are now offering gift wrapping in both our Reston & Vienna stores!

Do you have a gift-list that is a mile long and not enough time to run around to find that perfect choice? No worries-- we have a wide variety of birthday, baby, bridal, special occasion and hostess gifts. We pride ourselves in being NOVA's one-stop shopping destination. Paired with our new wrapping services, you'll be all set! Remember: Presentation is part of the package!

Come by The Dandelion Patch to see the great new spring must-haves!

Goody, Goody, Godiva!

2009-03-19T14:35:00.006-04:00

Yes, you read right... The Dandelion Patch is now a specialty retailer for Godiva chocolate! Just in time for Easter and Administrative Assistant's Day!

From traditional gold boxes of chocolates with their signature ribbons, to the dark sophisticated (and tasty!) truffles, we have the perfect solution for your gift giving needs.

Believe it or not... this adorable spring flower is also a tasty treat! This cheery chocolate on a stick will surely brighten any gloomy day.

These chocolate (Godiva!) bunnies and eggs make for a great decorations for any festive party placesetting. Or they could make a great treat for a special easter egg hunt! With Godiva as the prize...you just might have a competitive hunt on your hands.

With so many yummy (and beautiful) options... how can you decide? We say: help stimulate the economy and try them all!

Happy St Patrick's Day!

2009-03-17T10:45:00.003-04:00

St. Patrick's Day Sale at The Dandelion Patch, March 13th-17th!

Save 17% on all regular priced merchandise and an additional 17% off
all sale merchandise.

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No price adjustments, no rain checks, and no special orders.

VIENNA : 111 Church Street NW, Suite 101 | Vienna, VA 22180 | 703-319-9099

RESTON : 11923 Market Street | Reston, VA 20190 | 703-689-2240

www.TheDandelionPatch.com

The Perfect Housewarming Gift at The Dandelion Patch!

2009-02-19T12:24:00.009-05:00

Trapp Candles are back by popular demand!

These wonderfully scented candles come in many varieties and have NEW and IMPROVED packaging. So far, our staff favs are : Orange Vanilla, Sexy Cinnamon, and Mediterranean Fig. Personally, I enjoy the fresh, clean scent of Water (yes, it does smell good!).

This past holiday season we could not keep the Reed Diffusers in our stores, they kept flying off the shelves! So come in and try a few... for you, or a friend. These "tiny houses" are the perfect housewarming gift. Get it? (houses, candle warms...) Enjoy!

Tea With Anna Post!

2009-02-11T11:22:00.007-05:00

You're Cordially Invited to a Very Special Tea
with Wedding Etiquette Expert Anna Post!

HOSTED BY THE DANDELION PATCH & WISH SPECIAL EVENTS

WHAT:
Anna Post talks to brides, members of the bridal party and family members about how to handle difficult moments during wedding planning, and how to incorporate classic points of etiquette for a new generation. From invitation wording to thank-you note tips, Anna offers insights that will keep brides sane and their mothers nodding in approval. And, whether it's the future mother-in-law who insists on hosting a rehearsal dinner that's more formal than the wedding reception, a maid of honor who won't return the bride's calls, or perhaps a bride with a wee bit of a control problem, Anna offers helpful advice about how to handle emotional interactions with those around you leading up to the big day. Relationship landmines abound on the way to the altar, and Anna's words of wisdom will arm brides with the tools they need to smooth the way.

WHERE:
Bazin's on Church
111 Church Street NW, Vienna

WHEN:
Sunday, March 22, 2009, 3 - 5 pm

HOW:
Sign up in one of our stores or email lindsay@thedandelionpatch.com
$60 per person - includes an autographed book from Ms. Post!

Wedding Wire Award

2009-02-03T22:54:00.003-05:00

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced that The Dandelion Patch has won the 2009 Bride’s Choice Awards™!

In its inaugural year, the Bride’s Choice Awards recognizes and honors vendors from the WeddingWire Network that demonstrate excellent quality of service, responsiveness, professionalism, value of cost and flexibility. This year’s recipients represent the top three percent of WeddingWire’s vendor community, which includes over 100,000 wedding vendors from across the US. That means The Dandelion Patch is one of the very best in invitations.
Unlike other awards in which winners are selected by the company, the Bride’s Choice Awards are determined exclusively by recent newlyweds through surveys and reviews.

“We are excited to launch this annual award program to honor high-performing vendors based solely on the experiences of our WeddingWire community,” according to Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “This year’s recipients have set the bar high, exhibiting excellent service and expertise in the wedding industry.”

The Dandelion Patch would like to thank our past clients for speaking on our behalf and helping us win the 2009 Bride’s Choice Award!

Splash of Color at The Patch

2009-02-03T22:48:00.005-05:00

Even though the weatherman says that we'll be in the teens this week (yes, can you believe it?), our products are beginning to show signs of spring! After a dreary and dark winter, what better way to brighten up your home than these fun and colorful serving dishes?

Want to make an even more perfect hostess gift? Here's how:

1. Make a batch of yummy toll house cookies

2. Put them on this platter

3. Give to your hostess

4. Enjoy the squeal of delight!

Ye Bit of Irish

2009-02-03T22:47:00.004-05:00

These jolly punchers are back by popular demand! The Halloween and Christmas versions of these pens sold out quickly, they are interactive and fun for someone of any age. Wait 'till you see what happens when you make the arms punch! It's definitely a fun surprise!

Relaxation in Progress

2009-02-03T22:44:00.002-05:00

Ok, I simply couldn't pass up the opportunity to share these wonderful, luxurious spa-aaah gift sets by Do Not Disturb. Trust me, there is no better way to buy 30 minutes of your day back!

These lavender relaxation products are made of the finest ingredients, infused with the purest essential oil of lavender and the aroma is calming, gentle and comforting. If you are in search of that perfect gift for that perfect gal in your life (or maybe yourself!)... stop looking! We have found way to close the door to distractions and it's wrapped in a purple box!

Dot, Dot, Sold!

2009-02-03T13:08:00.018-05:00

For those of you who haven't been in our store recently, we have a FANTASTIC promotion going on for the month of February.... All red dot items in our imprintable invitation and stationery area are 50% off! We have so many darling choices that it will make you WANT to plan a party. And there's no better time than now to take advantage of this great deal. Hurry into your favorite Dandelion Patch because they won't last long!

Hoppy Easter from The Dandelion Patch!

2009-01-27T22:16:00.008-05:00

Easter is just days away and the store is a beautiful color pallet of pastel chicks and fuzzy bunnies.

Hurry and fill up that Easter basket full of goodies from The Patch! Easter beaded braclets are some of the staff favs, although the bunny bath gel and little chic-a-dee necklaces are perfect for the lil' princess in your house (at least they are for mine!).

Balls, frogs and chocolate bars, anyone?

2009-01-27T20:41:00.025-05:00

As you know, dry winter weather can be harsh on those lips. One of Oprah's favorite products (as well as ours) are these snazzy lip balms. Not only are they a bright spot in winter, the bright colors make it easy to find them in your bag or purse!

Want to know the secret to a happily married life? We believe this chocolate bar tells the truth! Who says 50/50 is equal? It's a perfect gag gift for that anniversary or Valentine's Day joke.

Aren't these the cutest? The only thing they're missing is the words that we all think when we see them in the store: "please take me home!" So, come in and do so! Adoptions available daily!