For those of you that read E.A., you know I’m mad for Etsy!  There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t scour its pages, hunting for unique items to feature in our home, my closet, or a gift bag for a friend.  There are so many incredibly talented people out there, and I love knowing that I’m purchasing something made by hand on a small, personal scale.  I like to think of it as shopping “global-locally!”

Anyhoo, in honor of my new favorite online pastime, I thought I’d do an EAD Living series featuring my favorite Etsy sellers in different categories, starting with my latest fixation: pottery and ceramics!

PrinceDesign UK

I just recently discovered PriceDesign UK when searching far and wide for a little bowl to sit sit on our kitchen window ledge to hold my engagement and wedding rings whilst cooking.

I personally fell in love with the stacking poppy bowls – what a gorgeous piece for any room in your home!  Sadly, I didn’t have $80 to spend on nesting bowls but I did spring for a little poppy bowl to be put to use for my original search-intent!  {a tough choice, with the lacy tea bird bowl being a super-close contender}  If you’re looking for His & Hers ring bowls – to place on a nightstand or sink – the pair of lovebird bowls might might just fit the bill!  I think these would also be sheer perfection as a substitute for a ring-bearer pillow!

Karin Lorenc

Speaking of fabulous stacking bowls, Karin Lorenc offers a wide selection of nesters with smooth white exteriors and punchy colored insides.  I’m also digging the Orange Creamsicle Mugs – the inviting curvy handles and fun pop of apricot would look lovely on my desk filled with a steaming cup of coffee!

While I love the mugs and bowls, the real reason I fell in love with Karin Lorenc is sitting directly above… two words for you: Brie. Baker.   Yes, that’s correct – a cooking receptacle fashioned specifically for ooey-gooey-delicious-creamy-pungent cheese.  I’ve already purchased four (three for fabulous cheese-loving friends, and one for cheese-loving me).  Karin Lorenc = my current Kitchenwares Yoda.

Red Hot Pottery

Last but not least, how lovely are these vases from Arizona artist Christine Tenenholtz?

I’m an advocate of “off-the-registry” gifts if you are very close to the recipient and see something special you know they’d like.  These pieces are just the sort of OTR gift I look for when considering a surprise token for certain engaged friends.

Tune in next week for a peek into the more fashionable (hint, hint) side of Etsy!