In early 2011, writer-turned-entrepreneur Stacy Anne Longenecker felt it was time to turn over a new LEIF. And so, an elegant, inviting (and absolutely colorful) little online shop was born. Stocked with delightful home accents, charming tableware, statement jewelry, and more, LEIF sets out “to present the most special, beautiful things that add a unique touch to day-to-day living.”
I’ve come to notice that the smallest thing can inspire and enrich your daily life, whether it be a crisp new set of thank you notes, a beautiful mug for coffee or tea, stocking your bathroom with scented soap in a pretty glass bottle, or a colorful vase on display in a most frequented room. -Stacy Anne Longenecker, founder of LEIF
What brands do you carry?
I try not to focus on “brands”, but more awesome individuals and makers – most of what I buy for the shop is handmade by the designer them self, and it’s usually not someone super well known or whose work is carried everywhere else. That said, some of my favorites are Ben Fiess, Suite One Studio and dullDIAMOND.
Suite One Studio Dipped Juice Cup, $25 and Dipped Pitcher, $60
What you look for in a brand when merchandising?
Color, color and more color! I look for things that are either super colorful and happy, or natural and rustic yet modern. There’s this balance I look for, I guess. I’m not totally sure I can describe it. Kind of witty and cheeky yet beautiful and well-designed.
Who is your customer?
Definitely someone creative who likes to be surrounded by nice looking things that make them happy. They usually live in a city – San Francisco, New York, Austin. I think maybe the shop’s style appeals to a more Californian mindset (whimsical and colorful and not too serious), even though I’m based in Brooklyn.
Any advice for new designers to stand out to store buyers/owners?
Take trends with a grain of salt and try to create something that’s different from anything else out there. I like when a designer acknowledges a trend but is able to reinterpret it. Also, I’m not so sure this goes for shops other than my own, but the more color, the better.
Agate Trivet, $20 leifshop.com
What are some of your top sellers?
I keep expecting people to get sick of the agate & gemstone trend, but it’s still going strong!
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1 comment
Elisa says:
Aug 22, 2012
Such an awesome shop!
I understand when she talkes about it appealing to a more Californian mindset – I am a long-time expat but consider myself a West-Coaster at heart, and I LOVE all these colorful, creative, unique items! Love to pair them with simple decor for pops of color and creative energy