December is the time of year you get to eat all of your favorite sweets before those New Years’ resolutions kick in, and after the crazy year this has been, I think we’ve all earned it. So grab your favorite mugs and get ready for a Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board that puts the Merry in Merry Christmas!
]]>December is the time of year you get to eat all of your favorite sweets before those New Years’ resolutions kick in, and after the crazy year this has been, I think we’ve all earned it. So grab your favorite mugs and get ready for a Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board that puts the Merry in Merry Christmas!
To start, you need to find a flat tray to display all your favorite hot cocoa toppings. Wooden trays are traditional for charcuterie boards, a nice wooden cutting board can work great. If you don’t have either of those, you can always take a metal cookie sheet and secure some festive wrapping paper to the top to place your toppings on.
Next, you want to pick what toppings to display on your charcuterie tray. Think of what might taste good melted into your drink.
You’re going to need a good cookie pairing. Not only do they taste great dipped in hot cocoa, but you can use them to fill in the gaps on your tray. Plus, their shapes and colors make it easy if you want to give your board a theme. Just about any cookie will work, but gingerbread men are a Christmas tradition and can give your plate some extra holiday vibes.
Now you need to put your tray together.
Last but not least, keep a kettle of hot water or a pot of warm milk on the stove for your guests to start with. If this is an adult party, consider having your favorite liqueur close by, and of course, don’t forget the whip cream!
That’s it, your Hot Chocolate Charcuterie Board is ready to party! We hope this brings a little more magic to your holiday parties and we wish you a happy and safe New Year. Feliz Navidad!
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Wondering where to start with your holiday shopping? No problem! I’ve created a holiday gift guide with a few of my favorite things for all of your favorite people. You can visit the website or our etsy shop for all your festive shopping needs. Whether it’s your significant other or a special family member, I’ve got you covered. Don’t miss my picks for the littles in your life!
Men are very often the most difficult to shop for. But you can’t go wrong with these Mexican embroidered Coco Joe bow ties. Add a splash of color to any collar (which we know was far too serious, anyway).
For her, pick up one of these Bonita Lolita. They are 100% manta with an intricately embroidered design on the front. She’ll love the roomy, lined interior and comfy soft strap.
Or why not mix and match a gorgeous Lia Mini with one of our graphic tees from Pajaro Studios? I love the big embroidered design on these itty bitty minis. And the originally designed tees are nothing but fun!
We have partnered with Extra Virgin Art Studio to offer up some handmade mirrors and magnets with folkloric decoupage designs. My friends Karen and Victor have created some truly wonderful and whimsical works of art. The four piece magnet set is a perfect stocking stuffers!
Head over to my Etsy shop and check out this vibrant Oilcloth Wallet Clutch Set. I just love our easy-to-clean oilcloth, always offered in vibrant, fun designs. These clutches organize it all, from keys to cash to tech devices. Break it up for multiple gift buying, or wrap it up in a set for that hard-to-buy-for relative!
These stylish Trucker Hats are the ideal gift for the sun lovers in your life. Choose between our embroidered or hand-painted designs. Our hats are beach-ready, lightweight and dry quickly.
Of course, I haven’t forgotten about the littles you love! Wrap up this sweet Chelito Toddler’s Dress for your mini boho babe. It’s hand embroidered, comfy, breathable cotton with pockets for all their tiny treasures. And for your little guy, we’ve got the Boy’s Guayabera Set. This manta top with matching shorts would be sublime with a matching bow tie!
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Entertainment can be found everywhere during this three-day-long festival. Street performers put on shows, charro’s ride their horses in parades along with marching bands, and live music can be found throughout the city. Artists stand in front of large canvases, creating murals depicting different aspects of the holiday. And finally, at night, the cemeteries are filled with the sound of laughter and the glow of candlelight as families stop by to pay their respects.
This year Dia De Los Muertos in Puerto Vallarta may look a little different. While the city may be decorated, the people will be home celebrating with their families, but that doesn’t mean this holiday will be any less fun. Bring your family together and have your own celebration at home! Play traditional music, make sugar skulls, put together an altar and have everyone give an offering, wear traditional dresses, and paint your face like La Catrina. Most importantly, tell stories and share memories of those you have lost, laugh, cry, and heal as a family. Check out how Brush Babes in Puerto Vallarta entertains for the special occasion.
The Day of the Dead is meant to celebrate the life of those we have lost, but it also serves as a reminder of how precious our own lives are. Time is short, so take advantage of every moment.
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But don’t despair, you can still enjoy a night of spooky fun with your family or friends. We’ve got some great ideas to celebrate a terror-ific Halloween while keeping everyone safe! Follow our top three favorite tips to an unforgettable monster ball!
Above all, don’t lose that spine-tingling spirit of Halloween fun. Go big with your outdoor decor! Hit up Erica Maree for some great Day of the Dead themed decorations for your party, whether it’s outside or a virtual fiesta!
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
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Better yet, routines help families stick to a schedule. This means there’s less wasted time arguing over who is supposed to do the dishes and take out the trash. It also means there’s more time spent together finding the weirdest pumpkin spice mashup (pumpkin spice Oreos, anyone?). Here are a few easy ways to get into a routine that will keep things low stress.
As a reward to yourself for getting your family on track at home, shop Erica Maree home collections! We’ve got the goods to add those extra splashes of style to any home.
Want a quick and easy way to change the look of any seating area? Try changing it up with our Tiaz Pillow covers. Patchwork Mexican embroidery from our project remnants.
Check out these sweet and whimsical decoupage vanity mirrors. Each handheld mirror is uniquely designed by local artisans, using 100% crabwood.
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But the thing is, 2020 has been a year made entirely of uncharted waters. This whole time, we've been adapting and forging new paths for ourselves and each other. We've been learning, in the School of Life, that within the sea of unknown there is also boundless potential.
That is one way this September is just like all the September before it: the unmistakable feeling of potential, and anticipation. If there is one thing we all know now, it’s that anything can happen. 2020 has taught us that anything can be.
No matter if we’re e-learning or in-person learning, there is a spark of possibility in this moment in time. When we couple that spark with anticipation, genuine excitement for the possibility of what is, we can confidently travel those new paths for ourselves. Even if the times we’re living in look nothing like they did last year.
It’s not the mode of learning that matters; it’s that essence of curiosity about life. The spark of creativity and imagination. Brightness, hope, curiosity, color. The potential for a life with more texture, more feel.
This philosophy of creative potential is always with us at Erica Maree! As we move into another year of academic potential, get inspired for work and protect your precious tablet all at once, with a bright and colorful pouch
What better way to look forward to learning, than with a backpack that you can't wait to wear? Carry all your books and supplies in style, and water resistant oilcloth protects your stuff from the occasional oopsie.
Don’t forget about the littles in your life! It may not be time for school just yet, but that doesn’t mean they can’t join in the fun. Learning and growing is for everyone! See Erica's kids collection!
Click here for more Erica Maree lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted fashion looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the street, in the blink of an eye. All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective of artisans, and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand-embroidery alive.
Learn more about Erica Maree Puerto Vallarta here.
If you’ve ever seen photographs of the poppy fields in bloom or the orangey-red blossoms in watercolor paintings, you’ll know why these frilly blossoms are the muse of so many still life artists. You can’t help but be captivated by the oversized, fearless flowers featured in Georgia O'Keeffe's 1928 oil masterpiece, Oriental Poppies.
The artisans at Erica Maree were also inspired by the passionate poppy, and got to work on some wearable art. We’ve got a brand new line of summer totes covered in these beautiful blooms. Let’s face it, wildflowers are an Erica Maree specialty! Think color, beauty, durability and sustainable design.
There are four different styles to fit in with all of your summer plans, from our Mini Poppyseed Tote to the beach-friendly Large Oilcloth Poppyseed Bag. And, if you can’t get enough of our signature Mexican embroidery, you’re going to love the poppy design on our Poppyseed Jalisco Tote. It’s perfect for a quick trip to the market for some summer-fresh fruit.
Our one-of-a-kind bags may come in several styles and sizes, but all feature our fearless and fun poppyseed prints. Constructed from water-resistant, easy-clean oilcloth, these gorgeous totes are ready for summer adventure and don’t mind a little action! Whether you spend the day relaxing poolside or seeking out a quiet beach for a day in the sun, Erica Maree has it covered.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
]]>Above all, don’t forget: we’ll be back together again soon. Be kind to yourself and reach out to people you love. We’re in this together!
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click HERE for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
]]>Comfort is key - You don’t have to buy expensive furniture or install a swimming pool to be comfortable in your space (although you sure can!). Adding in something as simple as a brightly colored hammock across your deck can make outdoor living such a pleasure. Throw on a few pillows with hand-embroidered covers from ericamaree.com to finish that stylish space. Finish off the look with our comfy and essential Coachella Blanket Throw. Now you’re ready for a good summer read in the great outdoors!
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However, since those early days we’ve been advised (and even, in some parts of the world, mandated) to wear a cloth face covering when outside of our homes. This is because studies have found that masks, even simple cloth ones, can reduce transmission of the virus significantly. With all of us beginning to re-enter public places in order to revitalize our economy, risk reduction is going to be a pretty essential activity!
There are some tips issued by the World Health Organization that help maximize the effectiveness of mask wearing. If we’ve got to wear masks, we should make sure we are doing it right! For example:
We may need wear face coverings in order to keep everyone safe and healthy, but we can still have a little fun! With Erica Maree, you get three layers of protection in one beautiful, hand-embroidered mask. Not only are our masks easy on the eyes, a percentage of mask sales goes to the Vallarta Food Bank. Now that makes mask wearing even more worthwhile!
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
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Puerto Vallarta’s Pride celebrations offer a close up look at the fantastic talent represented in our own LGBTQ community. Vallarta is a popular tourist destination for LGBTQ travellers, so it’s natural that the annual Pride Parade, normally held at the end of May, would be such a spectacular event. The Lazaro Cardenas Park Party offers live shows featuring singers, dancers, artists, Youtubers, DJs and more. It’s joyful, noisy, and so. much. fun. The best part? Everyone is invited to the party, which is just as it should be!
Unfortunately, this year’s Pride celebrations were in danger of being completely cancelled due to public sanitary restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic. That didn’t stop some seriously determined volunteers, who set up the Puerto Vallarta VIRTUAL Pride Week on Facebook! More than fifty local businesses and performers signed up to participate during the online event that took place during the week of June 8 - 14, live streamed on their Facebook page.
Our very own Mama Tits teamed up with Effie Passaro and Diego Guerrero in a beautiful musical performance. Local businesses such as Myskova held fashion shows. Paco Ojeda offered lively discussions and interviews about the news and culture that affect the local LGBTQ community. DJs such as Voidlove threw online dance parties with Pink & Proud. In every show, funds were raised for local businesses and performers who have been struggling due to the Covid-19 quarantine measures.
In other words, it was Vallarta Pride. We weren’t physically present, but we were still together as one vibrant, strong, united community, supporting each other in challenging times. And that’s just what Pride has always been about. Stay cool under the sun while showing your PRIDE with one of Erica Maree rainbow hats!
]]>Frankie, Jimmy and Francie all had experience in organizing a variety of volunteer initiatives here in Vallarta and beyond. And all three wanted to give bank to the community who had welcomed them with open arms.
Jimmy and Frankie worked quickly, converting their BBQ restaurant into a food bank, donating much of their own business’s food to the supply. Francie joined the board of directors and immediately set up the group’s gofundme page, which has raised nearly $87,000 to date.
Bags of food are being provided to families all over Vallarta and into surrounding villages such as San Sebastián, Quimixto and Chimo. As of this date, as many as 3000 families have been the recipients of the weekly dispensas (groceries).
Of course, there’s no way this kind of incredible support could be possible without community involvement. At Erica Maree, we decided we needed to lend a hand by doing what we do best: making beautiful things. We created our very own handcrafted masks, for sale now on our website. For every masks sold, we will donate a portion of it's profits to the Vallarta Food Bank.
Not only that, this project ensures that members of our tribe can keep working and providing for their own families - it’s a win/win situation! If you’d like a beautiful hand-embroidered mask (complete with a middle protective layer) made from 100% recycled textiles, order now!
Purchasing masks from Erica Maree means you get a beautiful face covering and you get the chance to support a wonderful community effort. There’s no downside! Check them out here.
If you want to know more about the Vallarta Food Bank, you can find them online
Website https://vallartafoodbank.com/
Instagram https://instagram.com/vallartafoodbank
]]>French forces may have outnumbered Mexican troops in Puebla 2 to 1. However, under General Ignacio Zaragoza Seguín’s command, Mexico’s army defeated the French. This victory is celebrated every year on May 5.
This victory was (and still is) a source of pride for the Mexican people. The French army was considered one of the best at the time and hadn’t been defeated in over fifty years. Despite the fact that the French army went on to take over the country a short time later, it remains a moral victory for Mexico, one that united the country as a symbol of patriotic pride.
Cinco de Mayo is a national holiday but mainly celebrated in the city of Puebla. However, it has been adopted in the United States as a day to celebrate the culture and heritage of Mexico.
In cities with significant Mexican populations, you will find festivals and parades celebrating the Cinco de Mayo with enthusiasm. Mexican music, food, and dance are all featured throughout the day. You will find symbols of the holiday and of Mexico in banners and decorations all over the city. Don’t miss the chance to join in the festivities celebrate Mexican pride wearing one of Erica’s embroidered Maxi Dresses!
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
The parade still takes place, but it’s become so much more than just a (really amazing) flower fight. Fiesta San Antonio celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the city with food, parades, competitions and lots of entertainment.
This year’s festivities will take place from April 16 to the 26th. It’s bound to be a spectacular party, with an opening ceremony, several dazzling parades, and a series of food events including an Oyster bake and a New Orleans themed experience.
Fiesta Fiesta, the opening event, kicks off the party with medal exchanges and fireworks. Flanking the main courtyard will be a Taste of the Republic, where distilled spirits will be on offer from all over Texas.
You can’t miss the Battle of Flowers parade, which started it all. But you’ll want to catch the Fiesta Flambeau, the largest night parade in the country, and the unique Texas Cavaliers River Parade.
Events such as A Day in Old Mexico and Charreada explore San Antonio’s cultural roots. You’ll find Mexican horsemanship, traditional folk dancing and live mariachi music. Near the heart of downtown San Antonio you’ll find the colorful and unique King William Fair, with food concessions, music, a children’s play area and a variety of arts and crafts vendors.
The best part of San Antonio’s Fiesta? Funds raised from this event, run by at least 75,000 volunteers, go to services that directly aid the city’s inhabitants. Make sure your dressed to impress in one of Erica’s one of kind dresses for girls. Or snazz up your little man in a easy clip on bow tie and embroidered shirt.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
]]>Careyes is the creation of Italian financier Gian Franco Brignone, who first set eyes on and fell in love with what was a rugged, wild, almost inaccessible stretch of paradise in 1968.
His dream was to create a beachside retreat for lovers of all things artistic and all things Mexico. And that he has, inside of what is now 20,000 acres of lush jungle, and what includes more than1,200 species of natural life. There are about 70 species of mammals and 270 species of birds living inside the property’s boundaries.
The community itself is multicultural and multilingual, and there are more than sixty villas and forty casitas on the property, all privately owned. Not to worry, many of them are for rent, and you can spend your days in your own infinity pool, with someone to cook delicious meals in-house.
Of course, if you’d prefer to head out for local cuisine, you could try the deliciously exotic Cocodrilo Azul, located near the central plaza. You must have lunch on the beach at Playa Rosa, with beautifully served seafood and pasta dishes and a spectacular view. If you visit the surrounding beaches of Tenacatita, Chamela and Perula, you’ll be able to find some freshly caught fish to enjoy.
If you’re not one to sit and watch the waves roll by, there’s plenty to do at Costa Careyes. The area is surrounded by small beaches perfect for surfing. Not only that, you can walk for a long stretch on quiet Playa Teopa. You can find a turtle sanctuary on one side of this beach, where sea turtles are often released around sunset… an unforgettable experience for sure! Kayaking, snorkeling and windsurfing are available of course, but did you know there was a chic polo club onsite as well?
On top of it all, this artists’ and architects’ haven has produced some world-renowned art installments. One of the most iconic is the Copa Del Sol, found perched on cliff overlooking Playa Teopa.
Naturally, if you are thinking of spending some time soaking up the rays and the atmosphere of luxurious Careyes, you’ll need to pack your bohemian chic from Erica Maree. Spend the day at Playa Rosa with this perfect beach bag in brightly patterned oilcloth.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
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Love has had divine connections in Mexico since the days of Mesoamerica, where chocolate was first discovered for its delicious and amorous properties. The Aztec people worshipped a goddess of beauty, love and friendship named Xochiquetzal. She was also the patroness of lovers and prostitutes, and she is commonly depicted along with beautiful flowers. But don’t let the flowers and the friendship fool you. She was an extremely powerful goddess, and some of the rituals performed in her name involved human sacrifice. Love, indeed, hurts.
There are many legends and myths surrounding amorous couples throughout Mexico’s history. One of the most famous involves love and tragedy in beautiful, colonial Guanajuato, considered to be the most romantic city in Mexico.
As the story goes, a greedy and selfish father wished to marry his daughter, Doña Carmen, to a wealthy Spanish nobleman in order to refill his depleted bank account. However, his dear daughter wanted to marry for love.
Naturally, she fell in love with young, definitely-not-wealthy miner named Don Luis. They met in secret and vowed their eternal love to one another. Naturally, they were discovered, and poor Doña Carmen was locked in her room to await her fateful wedding day with an elderly Spaniard.
Don Luis decided to buy the house next to her, since the homes were so close they could kiss across the nearly-touching bedroom balconies. One night the star-crossed lovers were sharing a goodnight kiss and were discovered by the enraged father, who plunged a dagger into his daughter’s heart, killing her instantly.
Don Luis was so heartbroken he jumped into a mineshaft, ending the sad tale. You can still visit the alley, Callejón del Beso, in Guanajuato where the story found its origins. If you kiss your partner on the third step, legend has it that your love will last forever.
If you plan on an evening out with your Valentine, you can’t go wrong with this ultra-romantic embroidered maxi dress from Erica Maree.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Or perhaps you used your vacation time to relax and chill out on the beach. You may have spent the day lounging and the nights out finding a great little bar with a band. Traveling with children is less relaxing and more active (with a much higher spf on your sunscreen bottle).
But traveling with children can be a memorable, rewarding family experience. Here are a few tips to get you started:
Come Prepared
Kids come with more gear, so leave yourself time to get through security with your stroller and bottles. Also, always bring snacks. Snacks are essential when traveling with young children. You can distract an impatient toddler with his favorite goldfish crackers (rainbow ones are more delicious). Even grumpy teenagers are transformed with the power of a favorite piece of chocolate or a package of spicy Doritos. You can keep it organized with one f Erica Maree’s many oilcloth pouches, bags and totes!
Prepare Your Kids
This is important. Some families enjoy surprising their children with a trip to Disney. Depending on the child, this can turn out wonderfully. But with many children, a diversion from their expected routine can be unsettling. Explain where you are going, develop a fun, reasonable itinerary, and give them advance notice before changing plans. Happy kids are prepared kids. Happy parents have prepared kids.
Stay Positive
Chances are, you will lose an important item. It could be a passport, a phone or a camera. You could be stuck in the middle of nowhere with a flat (oh so flat) tire and no one to call. Your child will spend a night throwing up in the hotel bathroom. Things. Will. Go. Wrong. Roll with it and make up a new game called Jump Up and Down on the Tire Iron Til the Lug Nut Loosens. These stories will be family legends some day. And you will be so glad you traveled with your kids.
When you do go on that vacation, don’t forget to cover up with a fashion-friendly embroidered trucker hat from Erica Maree! If your next adventure brings you and your family to Erica’s puebla, be sure to reach out to Puerto Vallarta’s favorite tour guide, Sylvie with Tours du Jour Mexico!
The ancient Aztecs honored the goddess Xochiquetzal annually with feasts surrounded by garlands of flowers. With her name stemming from a compound of the Aztec words for “flower” and “precious feather”, Xochiquetzal was the goddess of female power, beauty and fertility – protecting young mothers and holding them safe through pregnancy and childbirth. She was also the patron deity of weavers and embroiderers; one reason why floral patterns still feature prominently in artisanal embroidery in Mexico today. Xochiquetzal’s Mayan cultural counterpart was Goddess I, who presided over eroticism, human procreation and marriage for the Maya, whom also was lavished with offerings of flowers by her people.
Three of the most iconic flowers in Mexican culture you will see in traditional Mexican craftwork include Marigolds, Dahlias and Poinsettias, all which date back to Aztec and Mayan culture. But you don’t need to be a deity to be adorned in in the power and sensuality of flowers, because Erica Maree takes this ancient Mexican tradition and pairs it with looks you’ll love. Here are 3 favorite picks for bringing a little flower power into your life:
Mexican Embroidered Dress Dhelia Navy
Flowing, easy and with a sexy open back to free your inner goddess.
Mexican Embroidered Pillow Cover
Need to spice up your love life? Try these handcrafted throw pillows in honor of Goddess I and see if she rewards you with some erotic favors.
Michele Clutch in Eggplant
Even a goddess needs something stylish for her essentials. This roomy handcrafted clutch is perfect for everywhere you go, day to night.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
If you live in Mexico, the cooler temps are still a ways away. The leaves don’t fall much, unless someone accidentally chops down a palm branch when going for a coconut. Luckily, pumpkin spice IS a thing in the local Starbucks. And, although the Day of the Dead is the biggest fall celebration, Halloween has caught on in some areas, especially those populated by expats.
Trick or Treat!
Many of our Puerto Vallarta and Nuevo Vallarta neighborhoods do welcome trick or treaters. You can even walk along the Malecon, Puerto Vallarta’s ocean promenade, to see the scary sights. If the kids want to dress up, and don’t mind a bit of spicy candy, they’ll have a spook-tacular night.
Candy Clean-up
Beware, these sweet treats don’t taste like your childhood Tootsie Rolls. It’s a sweet and spicy battle in every lick or bite. Try mango-flavored lollipops rolled in chili, or spicy tamarindo fruit leather with salt and chili mixed in the recipe.
Party on
If you’re in Vallarta for the ghostly holiday, drop by the American School for their epic Halloween party. They’ve got rides, pumpkin contests, carnival-style games, and haunted houses for all ages. You can’t miss the chance to dress up in your bloodiest finery and enjoy an evening of creepy fun!
Halloween is just terrifyingly fun at any age.
Here at Erica Maree, we’ve got you covered for a festive, creepy-cute look. Our Machete Screen Printed Tee fits in with any eerie ensemble. Try our classy black Mexican Embroidered Off the Shoulder Dress to complement your calavera makeup.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye. All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of
traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
The cobblestoned street of Basilio Badillo is located right in the heart of the Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta. It runs for nine blocks, beginning at Playa de los Muertos and cutting its way through Old Town. Basilio Badillo is buzzing with the best Vallarta can offer -theatre, restaurants, art galleries, Mexican style textiles of every kind, and exquisite silver jewelry.
Erica Maree Boutique is (naturally) right in the center of the action. The Erica Maree tribe opened their doors one year ago on November 9, 2018. Erica Black, founder of the Erica Maree brand, answered a few questions about this chic little shop on the remarkable calle of Basilio Badillo.
Q – What made you decide to open a shop on Basilio Badillo?
When I first arrived to Puerto Vallarta and discovered Calle Basilo Badillo, I realized I stumbled onto something special! I found gorgeous shops to get lost in and delicious food on every corner! Calle Basilo Badillo is a magical, vibrant & bustling part of PV and I knew that if I ever were to have a business in Puerto Vallarta, this street is the ONLY place I would want to be!
Q – What do you love about the Basilio Badillo neighborhood?
I love the community feel about it. You won’t find any chain stores or restaurants here! Every business is a “small business” and locally owned. I feel really proud to be a part of it all.
Q – Tell us more about some of the new products available in the shop!
Apart from the staple pieces Erica Maree studios create, we will be carrying new jewelry lines made here in Puerto Vallarta along with luxury resort and beach wear.
Q – Can you give us any hints about new products or projects coming up for Erica Maree?
I’ll just say…. “when you have one you have none”. The Bay of Banderas is growing, and we’ll grow along with it!
Q – What do you like to do in this end of town when you aren’t busy running a fabulous shop?
I love coffee almost as much as I love tacos. You can find me on Basilo Badillo between El Sofa Cafe and Cafe Cathedral for a deep dark bitter espresso on the go! I love wandering through parque Lazero Cardenas with my son grabbing an ice cream along the way. Ohhh and our sunsets from Los Muertos beach are dreamy.
Q – How are you going to celebrate this anniversary?
The Erica Maree tribe will be hosting a weeklong anniversary storewide sale starting Nov 8th through the 15th! However our official anniversary date is Saturday November 9th and we are looking forward to celebrating with our customers on this day with some very festival appropriate shenanigans! Giveaways, new product drops and more!
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Agua fresca is normally made with fresh fruits and grains mixed with water and sugar. Common favorites are the ruby-hued jamaica water, made with hibiscus flower, comforting horchata, a combination of cinnamon, sugar and rice water, and tart tamarindo, made from tamarind pods.
The flavor options can depend on what fruit is in season, so be adventurous and try something unexpected!
Local ice cream stores and stands will also often offer “paletas”, which are fresh fruit popsicles often made on-site. You can usually get a water-made version (paleta de agua) or milk-made (paleta de leche) of most flavors. If you want to go decadent (and you really should), try some of the paletas dipped in chocolate and fresh coconut or granola. One of our local Puerto Vallarta favorites are from Pericos Paletería y Nevería
Ice cream is also a popular local treat, for children and adults alike, often called “nieve” (snow) or “helado” (frozen). Many of the local neverias make their own and there are many familiar flavors available. Try flavors of local, in-season fruits such as papaya and guava. You can even find such exotic flavors as tequila and kahlua.
Don’t forget to keep your ice cream loving girls cool in the summer heat with our light and breezy Mexican dresses found here.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
If you would like to see the official version of El Grito de Dolores, you should set out for the main plaza (commonly referred to as the Zocalo) of any Mexican town or city for the traditional Ceremonia del Grito de Independencia. The mayor of town (or, if you are in Mexico City, the President) will be ringing that bell at 11pm, the traditional hour of El Grito, and there is always a fireworks display.
The very next day is El Dia de Independencia. It is always a national holiday, so schools, banks and many offices will be closed, and there are often parades and fiestas all over Mexico. Don’t miss out on sampling some of Mexico’s most delicious food. Start with Huevos Rancheros for breakfast. You can’t get more Mexican, more filling, and more delicious.
Don’t forget to pick up a beautifully embroidered Chelow Mexican Mini-Dress by Erica Maree. Its light fabric and short style will keep you cool in the September heat. Choose green to match the colors of the fiesta!
Enjoy all the sights, sounds, smells and flavors of Mexico at its most patriotic. Get out and become part of the crowd when the bell is rung, calling Mexico’s people to answer the battle cry. Join in the resounding shouts of “Viva Mexico”, because tonight, we are all Mexico, and long may she live.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the streets, in a blink of an eye.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective or artisans and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican embroidery alive.
Lock in the Moisture: conditioning treatments are the best way to combat the dryness and frizz that result from salt, sun and wind damage. We’re loving this overnight hair mask that we whip up at home using local organic Mexican products from Puerto Vallarta: take a few teaspoons of coconut oil (depending on your hair length) and add some natural yogurt, the contents of two capsules of Vitamin E and stir until it reaches a creamy constancy. Apply evenly and massage into your head for 4 to 5 minutes, before covering with a shower cap and going to bed. Rinse off to gorgeous, shiny mermaid hair the next morning.
Master your shampoo technique. We get it… that gritty, post-beach day hair MUST get shampooed, but keep the shampoo localized to your scalp to protect the moisture of the rest of your hair, which just needs good rinse, followed by conditioner.
Up your SPF game. There are lots of leave-on conditioning products that contain SPF to protect both your hair and your scalp from the sun. For a more organic, stylish approach, cover up with a hat, like one of our super cute snapback baseball hats from Erica Maree, locally made in Puerto Vallarta, or an always
classic scarf.
Go natural, girl. Summer is the time to set your natural hair free. Avoid harsh chemical or color treatments, give that blow-dryer and flat-iron a break, and let your hair feel itself for a while. Embracing your natural beauty is what its all about.
Click here for more Erica Maree lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted fashion looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the street, in the blink of an eye. All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective of artisans, and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand-embroidery alive.
Learn more about Erica Maree Puerto Vallarta here.
The Coco Joe Bow Tie Black
Add a little boho to his black-tie look or just a pop of style to his everyday. As one-of-a-kind as he is, these hand-sewn, hand-embroidered bow ties come in three colorways and are all completely unique. And, of course, each Coco Joe Bow Tie comes with easy-to-follow instructions on how to tie because….you know…. guys.
Machete Screen Printed Unsex Tee
Any of our super soft, screened t-shirts would be a perfect made-in-Mexico fashion gift, but we’re especially grooving on our Machete print because it’s totally masculine – but unisex – because he’s modern like that.
Beaded Black Snapback Hat Huichol Art
Our Official Snapback modern flat bill hat features over 3000 handmade “shakira” beads which are handsewn onto a leather base patch, creating a wicked three-dimension effect, using traditional techniques of the local Huichol indigenous tribe. Added bonus? He’s not going to get mad when you borrow it, looking all cute.
Erica Maree salutes all the dads out there – traditional dads, LGBTQ dads, walking the dog at 2am dads, surrogate dads and non-biological dads – that are stepping up and making a difference. We love you all, and honor you this Father’s Day in Mexico and abroad.
Click here for more Erica Maree style and lifestyle tips, a bohemian fashion and accessory store in Puerto Vallarta, focusing on handcrafted fashion looks that support Mexican artisans and traditional Mexican handicraft, reinvented with a modern twist that goes from the beach to the street, in the blink of an eye.
All Erica Maree products are handmade by our incredible collective of artisans, and we are dedicated to supporting living wages, fair trade and sustainable practice in everything we do, to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand-embroidery alive.
Learn more about Erica Maree Puerto Vallarta here.
Recently placing 5th in the USAToday’s Top 10 Botanical Gardens by popular vote, the Vallarta gardens never fail to astound their visitors. They extend over 20 acres and feature over 3000 plants. The garden is most widely known for its vast variety of orchid species. Roam through stunning palm trees, a mesmerizing rose garden, a fern tree grotto, an orchid house and discover all kinds of tropical flora and fauna along your way.
You can choose to embark on a guided tour of the gardens or decide to adventure through them on your own. The guided tour allows you to venture through the garden’s trails, conservatories and exhibits with an expert guide who is chalked full of nature knowledge to share. After hiking along the trails, you can swim in the river, enjoy a meal at the magnificent Hacienda del Oro Restaurant, and visit the orchid conservatory.
When visiting the Puerto Vallarta Botanical Gardens, it is recommended you bring sunscreen and bug spray, as well as comfortable walking shoes, a bathing suit and towel, and a reusable water bottle.
For more information on the botanical gardens and how to book one of their excellent guided tours feel free to visit their website. Trust us, when it comes to things to do in Puerto Vallarta, a visit to the city isn’t complete without an adventure to the Botanical Gardens!
Here at the Erica Maree studio, which doubles as a bohemian fashion and accessory shop in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, we believe in the value of supporting artisans whose handicrafts have been made in Mexico for generations. Each one of our pieces is created by hand with heart and soul, and provides fair labor wages for artisans in order to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand embroidery alive!
As always, thanks for shopping handmade!
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Sayulita’s cobblestone streets are lined with delightful restaurants and eateries where you’ll find cuisine of all origins. While on a stroll through the main streets you’ll come across many charming boutiques where you’ll find handcrafted made in Mexico items of all kinds. Browse through enchanting in beautiful bohemian home décor, handmade Mexican embroidery items, alluring wall art and photography, jewelry, handmade clothing, and so much more.
While of course there are an endless array of things to do in Puerto Vallarta, if you’re in the area we highly recommend taking a trip out to Sayulita. The little town is an Erica Maree favorite because of its fascinating boutiques, wonderful cafes and restaurants, and its beaches too. Choose your spot at one of the many beach clubs or beachfront restaurants, order yourself an ice cold beverage of your choice and enjoy time spent at the seaside.
While in Sayulita, there are a few spots that we highly recommend:
Sayulita is the perfect place to slow things down a couple of notches and enjoy your very own taste of tropical beach life. Once the sun goes down, you’ll find awesome nightlife too! Like we said, one day in Sayulita simply isn’t enough – but it’ll do!
Here at the Erica Maree studio, which doubles as a bohemian fashion and accessory shop in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, we believe in the value of supporting artisans whose handicrafts have been made in Mexico for generations. Each one of our pieces is created by hand with heart and soul, and provides fair labor wages for artisans in order to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand embroidery alive!
As always, thanks for shopping handmade!
]]>Let’s face it, we all know dinner and a movie is a little old-fashioned. And although old-fashioned dates can be fun, we’d like to share a few of our favorite romantic date ideas just in time for Valentine’s Day weekend.
Not only is this a great way to add some fun and laughter to the date, but it’s also very wallet-friendly too. Pack a picnic and head outdoors or to a local café to challenge your person to a game of strategy and wit.
No matter whether one or both of you are great cooks, there is lots of fun to be had while cooking together. Pop a bottle of wine, put on some fun Italian cooking music and see what you can conjure up!
Dancing is sexy and can be funny all at once. Have fun learning something new together that you can show off later!
Even if you two aren’t avid readers, there is always something interesting to find in a bookstore. If you want to make it really interesting, choose books for one another and then head to a cute spot to read them together.
Who doesn’t love tasting new wines or beers? Or even better, tequila or whiskey? Take a look around your home town or nearby to see what kind of trouble you can get into.
It’s a fact. We all love to be pampered. Book a mani-pedi or facial with a couples massage and let loose together. This is especially great for couples who work hard and don’t get a lot of time to spend together.
If you like giving back to your community, why not find a way of doing it together? Sign up at your local dog shelter or help with weeds at a community garden. What’s better than time spent together while helping the planet?
Tent, stars and campfires…it doesn’t get a whole lot more romantic than that. If you’re not the camping types, book a weekend at a cabin somewhere out of town and enjoy the peacefulness of nature together.
Skeptics or not, it’s fun to get your fortune told. Look up your local card reader or astrologer and go to have a peek your future together.
Doing a puzzle is a great way to spend some time together doing something fun. It also leaves a lot of room open for good conversation. Bonus points for a bottle of wine or two. Plus, if you pick something pretty you can have it framed and have it be décor for your home.
Have some fun wandering around in your own city and learn something about your partner’s favorite places. Do they like being up high on a mountain, or lower by a lake? Romantic date ideas where you can learn something about your partner are the best!
Whether you live together or are just headed out on your second date, exploring a nursery and learning a little more about plants is fun for anyone who’s a nature lover. Plus, you’ll get to add some green to your home!
Lots of cities are now hosting paint nights and crafts nights. Book an evening to sip on some wine with your boo while getting arts and crafty.
Two minds are greater than one right? Head out for all the materials you’ll need and see how well you can work together on “do it yourself” projects.
Do you have some favorite romantic date ideas that isn’t listed here? Share it with us!
Here at the Erica Maree studio, which doubles as a bohemian fashion and accessory shop in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, we believe in the value of supporting artisans whose handicrafts have been made in Mexico for generations. Each one of our pieces is created by hand with heart and soul, and provides fair labor wages for artisans in order to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand embroidery alive!
As always, thanks for shopping handmade!
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“Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.” – Anna Lappe
It’s easy to lose sight of how much power lies behind the decisions we make as consumers. It’s common for us to make purchases based on convenience and necessity. Although shopping handmade can have a positive effect someone else in your community or somewhere around the world.
The great thing is, even just having more awareness about how you spend your money makes a huge difference! It’s easy to make little decisions that most people don’t realize have such a great effect on the community and the planet. For example, you could choose to go shopping at your local community grocery store or farmers market as opposed to big chain store, or choosing to support small coffee shops instead of going to Starbucks for your next coffee meeting.
There are tons of ways to make little changes in your life as often as possible to create a better world. One of our favorite ways, of course, is to shop handmade! Shopping handmade is not only a great way to find unique one-of-a-kind things, but may actually impact the world more than you thought it did:
First, shopping handmade usually means the product went through a more sustainable manufacturing process. Just the fact that a product is handmade means it required less energy to make than mass production does.
Small businesses, designers, artisans and anyone else who is creating a handmade product is usually putting in at least little more love than say…a machine. The difference between something that is hand-stitched or hand-embroidered is noticeable right away. Which also leads perfectly into the next point:
Photo by Vladimir Proskurovskiy
Shopping handmade gives you the best opportunity to find things made with creativity. Each piece is unique, and usually one of a kind. Handmade supports the tradition of skilled handiwork that has been passed down through generations.
Finally, a handmade item will always have a little piece of the spirit of the person who made it. There’s nothing better than supporting your community or small businesses by choosing to shopping handmade a little more often!
Here at the Erica Maree studio, which doubles as a bohemian fashion and accessory shop in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, we believe in the value of supporting artisans whose handicrafts have been made in Mexico for generations. Each one of our pieces is created by hand with heart and soul, and provides fair labor wages for artisans in order to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand embroidery alive!
As always, thanks for shopping handmade!
]]>There is a lot of great advice when it comes to starting your year off on the right foot and paving the way to accomplishing your goals. In fact, sometimes it can become overwhelming and it feels like there are too many tips.
Here are a few simple and powerful ways to start your year off on the right foot with clear intentions and on the pathway to happiness:
Of course you knew you were going to see this one at the top of this list. It may seem like New Year’s goals are sort of over-rated. But in all honesty, setting goals is the best way to push yourself to achieve more. The thing is, your goals have to be realistically achievable. One of our biggest mistakes when setting goals is to set goals that are unrealistic. Start small, and work your way bigger. One way to do this is by setting monthly goals, and then breaking them down into 4 smaller weekly goals that represent the steps you can take to achieving the bigger goal. Trust me, looking back at your planner and seeing that you did actually accomplish what you set out to do makes achieving your next goal even easier. Long story short: start every week with a clear intention, and break bigger goals into smaller, bite-sized tasks.
Often, starting our year off on the right foot comes with a new budget; or at least a look at your current budget and some financial shifts. Budgets are constantly shifting and monthly expenses often vary. However, what many people forget to include in their monthly budget is a budget for self love. We all love to pamper ourselves in one way or another. This could mean setting a specific amount of money aside to treat yourself to a facial or mani-pedi, or a buying yourself a beautiful flower arrangement just because. Self love is important, and we should never need an excuse to treat ourselves to something that makes us feel good at least once a month. No, this does not mean a budget for wine night with the girls or family movie night, this is a budget for you.
No matter how focused on starting the year off on the right foot, it’s very easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of juggling work and social with family and relationships. Sometimes we get so lost in planning the week to week or month to month, that we forget to plan in little things for us to look forward to. Building healthy anticipation in your life is proven to have the potential to improve our lives in a huge way. Planning a weekend out of town at least once every two months, a fancy lunch break to help you get through a tough week, or planning a future vacation are all simple ways to build anticipation in your life. It is inevitable that we will find ourselves in not-so-ideal present moments throughout the year. Giving yourself something to look forward on both short and long-term basis makes it easy to get through tough moments. It’s important for us to disconnect as often as possible so that we are our most effective selves when it’s go time.
With every year that passes we continue to grow and evolve into new versions of ourselves. We make new connections, leave behind old ones, overcome all kinds of obstacles and take advantage of new opportunities. All these things pave the way for us to become new versions of ourselves as the time passes. Asking yourself powerful questions is a great way to get to know new versions of yourself and decide what aspects of yourself to keep or let go of. Sarah Biermann wrote a great article with a series of powerful questions that are a great place to start when it comes to doing this. Read her article here.
Another great way to start your year off on the right foot is by taking a second to think about all the people in your life that you appreciate. Even if you haven’t spoken to them in a while, take a few moments to call them up or write a quick message to tell them you appreciate them. We all need positive affirmation in our lives and giving it out will almost always result in it coming back to you full circle. Don’t let the hustle and bustle create too much distance between you and the people you want in your life.
Starting a new year off on the right foot doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s really only about giving yourself a bit of time for yourself, recognizing what and who is important to you, and remembering life isn’t all always about reaching the next level. You are always exactly where you’re supposed to be. In fact, one of the greatest things of all that you can master is the art of being present, and recognizing that everything happens as it should.
Here at the Erica Maree studio, which doubles as a bohemian fashion and accessory shop in beautiful Puerto Vallarta, we believe in the value of supporting artisans whose handicrafts have been made in Mexico for generations. Each one of our pieces is created by hand with heart and soul, and provides fair labor wages for artisans in order to keep the magic of traditional Mexican hand embroidery alive. We’re looking forward to starting our year off on the right foot with these tips, and hope they are valuable to you too!
As always, thanks for shopping handmade!
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