The following phrase is so commonly heard within the walls of Pottery Barn Kids that it should be a skit on Saturday Night Live: “It’s how much?! I could make that!!!”
I don’t frequent such stores often, because even at rock bottom clearance, it’s usually more than I wish to pay. Oh, I used to. Sweet, money soaked BC days. Before children.
I visited a Pottery Barn Kids with my BF Amie several months ago where I found a lovely pink “Happy Birthday” pennant/banner, made out of several patterns of fabric. How perfectly quaint. And that ridiculous phrase flew out of my mouth. “I can make it twice as sturdy, twice as large, twice as bright…for HALF the price!” I wish I had taken a picture of Amie’s face at that moment. She knew. Oh yes, she knew.
And here it is! My daughters’ permanent, we can use it every year (and we WILL) Birthday Pennant. Made in a short-short 4 months, half as sturdy, same size….hideously brighter….for TWICE the price. So it begs the question: JUST HOW MANY TIMES MUST I LEARN THE PAINFUL POTTERY BARN LESSON? OH DAMN YOU POTTERY BARN AND YOUR PRECIOUS AMERICANA PRODUCTS. DAMN YOU I SAY!
The PB Banner did not, I repeat, did not have semi-coordinating BUTTONS
4 responses so far ↓
1 Ana Paula Durighetto // Aug 2, 2008 at 7:52 am
Lori, Lori…
I went to Pottery Barn Kids this week to try to find the same hanging star I had in Noah’s bedroom for Oliver, and saw the pennant for sale for $9.99, and I remembered your story..but you know what came to my mind?
Whoever gets this, will never feel how much love was put in it specially for them! And that, my friend, is priceless!!!
You rock. These girls are lucky to have you!!!
Heading to St. Louis now!
Love you!
Ana Paula
2 Amie Settles // Aug 2, 2008 at 8:29 am
My dear friend- I saw the one at Pottery Barn, and I have to tell you it cannot hold a candle to the one you have made. The colors are much better, and the buttons are an amazing touch. Like I told you, nothing beats a memory crafted with your own hands. Hip Hip Horray! I knew you would spend more money, but it was worth it!
Love ya!
Amie
3 Amie Rickels // Aug 3, 2008 at 8:25 am
Your craftiness is inspirational and intimidating to the starter mom. The candyland part was a wonderland of childlike goodness. Everything you make radiates love, warmth and beauty. The basket you made us was no exception. It was like a warm blanket and a hug express delivered to our doorstep. Thank you Greg and Lori so much for your continued encouragement and support!
4 Grandma Sally // Aug 3, 2008 at 3:56 pm
All that work, on the banner, yes you can use it year after year. What a great idea. Love Mom