Ikebana Unbound: A Modern Approach to the Ancient Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

by Amanda Luu and Ivanka Matsuba

At its heart, the Japanese art of ikebana is about celebrating an intimate connection with nature. To practice ikebana is to find inspiration in the seasons, favor unassuming blooms and branches, seek balance and simplicity, and remain fully present in the moment. It is a beautiful, pure antidote to our age of distraction and excess. Honoring the lineage of ikebana while making the art their own, Luu and Matsuba of Studio Mondine in San Francisco explore new ways to tell stories with flowers. This book offers step-by-step instructions for dozens of stunning, seasonal arrangements, while in the process introducing readers to the themes and stylistic signatures of the art.

Scope: 176 pages

Wabi-Sabi Welcome: Learning to Embrace the Imperfect and Entertain with Thoughtfulness and Ease by Julie Adams

Wabi-Sabi Welcome honors the Japanese tradition of finding beauty in imperfection and creating a life of simplicity. The book is not a text on principals, rather it shows us how we can entertain and welcome others into our homes in a more relaxed way. Nathan Williams, founder of Kinfolk magazine states: “Wabi-Sabi Welcome applies the humble Japanese principle of wabi-sabi to home entertaining, celebrating the ‘perfectly imperfect’ art of hosting small gatherings. An antidote to the veneer of perfectionism so often presented by books of its kind, Wabi-Sabi Welcome offers readers license to slow down and host guests with humility, intention and contentment.” The book is beautifully designed, from cover to cover, and offers a well thought out approach to simplicity that can add an immense amount of value to our lives. Plus, the recipes are great!

Size: 272 pages

The Sunbloom Classic Soy Candle speaks to day-tripping in the desert, spring’s first bloom, infinite blankets of kaleidoscopic wildflowers. It is hand-poured into an amber, apothecary style jar at P.F. Candle Co. in Los Angeles CA and features their signature kraft label and brass lid. This soy candle has hints of golden-rayed lily, yarrow, and tonka bean. The 7.2 oz size is meant for dressers, countertops, nightstands – basically everywhere.

Material: 100% Natural Soy Wax, Phthalate-free Premium Fragrance Oil, Cotton Wick 

Scent: Sunbloom

Size: 7.2 oz

Burn Time: 40-50 hrs.

Artisan/Collective: P.F. Candle Co.

Origin: USA