“No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.”
– Proverb from Guinea

At Mulberry Cottage the flowers are blooming, and bunnies are hopping, as we’ve been “Spring-ing” up the shop for our big Spring Open House on Saturday, March 7th! You’ll find an abundance of beautiful spring flowers, tableware, linens, tasty treats, vintage Easter décor, and more. We’ll be sampling tasty foods and refreshing spring lemonades. Plus, the first 50 people who spend $25 or more will receive a special spring gift! And on top of that, we also have a very special surprise for a couple of lucky customers. Throughout the day, hiding somewhere in the shop, will be a couple of golden eggs. Inside these eggs, will be a $20 gift certificate for the lucky people who find them! These will be hidden at random times during the day, so everyone has a chance. Also, those who spend over $40 will be entered into a raffle for a special Vera Bradley prize! This is going to be such a fun day! Don’t miss it!

Speaking of raffles, I’d like to congratulate MaryAnn Pool, the winner of a $50 gift certificate in our Valentine’s Raffle. Congratulations MaryAnn!

To me, Spring is all about the senses; the colorful bouquet of flowers, the sounds of birds singing, the aroma of flowers in the air, the warmth of sunshine, the taste of juicy strawberries. Mulberry Cottage has something to excite all your senses this Spring!

For your sense of smell—many wonderful new spring fragrances from McCall’s Candles have just arrived. You must try Lilac and Gardenia, my grandma’s favorite flower. We’ve also brought in a lovely new line of soy-based candles from Bridgewater. My favorite scent is Grapefruit, because when I was little and spent the night at my grandma and grandpa’s house, I would wake up to the smell of breakfast and grandpa “Daddy Jim” would always have grapefruit. Every time I smell this candle, it brings back to those wonderful memories. Greenleaf also has a delightful new fragrance called Bamboo and Blossom, which you can find in their lotions, creams, sachets and more. I’d also like to introduce a new line I discovered; the luxurious and wonderfully scented soaps, lotions and bath salts of Pre De Provance. We’ve also received new stock of your much-loved Camille Beckman creams and lotions!

Now for your taste buds—We have some delicious Spa Teas, Spring Teas, Blooming Teas and lovely teapots and cups. Now you must see these special Blooming Teas by Teaposy. They contain silver needle white tea, premium spring harvest, and beautiful flowers that actually bloom when heated in a special clear teapot for an exquisite tasting and gorgeous looking tea. You’ll be amazed. Another tasty new line we’ve added is the gourmet line of hand-cooked Virginia peanuts from The Peanut Shop of Williamsburg! You’ve got to try their New Orleans Style, Cajun, and Old-fashioned Baseball Crunch flavors.

And for your sense of sight, we have a big surprise—A much requested favorite is back. Yes, Vera Bradley is back with a cascade of colorful quilted handbags, purses, cosmetic bags, organizers, wallets and more in the latest Spring and Summer colors. I‘ve been working closely with a wonderful Vera Bradley rep, to pick out just the right mix of the top styles for you Vera Bradley fans. And here’s the best part… if you desire a Vera piece that’s not in stock, we can now special order any item for you! Now, another feast your eyes are the new beautiful colonial quilt throws and pillows by Williamsburg in brilliant spring toile and floral designs that will brighten and warm up any room!

You’ll find music for the ears from the many wonderful themed Sunset Vista wind chimes that just arrived. You’ll find all types; spiritual, whimsical, nautical, natural, and beautiful. These chimes are just delightful to listen to.

Now, you’ll just love the soft, furry touch of our cuddly plush Easter bunnies, bears, cats, dogs and other wildlife creatures that will warm your heart. As many of you know, I’m a big animal lover. Recently, I’ve lost one of my beloved cats. I know, many of you pet owners have also experienced the loss a faithful companion. These little creatures of God are faithful companions who only ask to be fed, sheltered, and loved and they give so much love in return. So I felt many of you would appreciate a few very special memorial items to remember our loving pets after they pass on. There are a few that will bring tears to your eyes when you read them. I hope you love these memorial items as much as I do.

I’ve mentioned only a few of the many wonderful treasures we have at the shop. I do hope you come in to see everything and to say hello. Remember, spring is the time to stimulate all the senses. Open up those windows to the freshness of spring and listen to the birds sing!
Happy Spring to you all!

Love,

Jamie