Yesterday morning our favorite photographer Amanda Jones was featured on Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends program to discuss her new book Dog Years: Faithful Friends, Then and Now. We were thrilled to be included as Amanda's sweet little pup Ladybug was also on set wearing our Caramelle collar in Pistacchio! We think it looked stunning on her and she was a pro in front of the camera, of course! If you'd like to watch the interview, it can be found here: http://tinyurl.com/o4rv65g.
Amanda's book captures dogs she has photographed over her 20-year career as puppies or young dogs, and then a decade or so later. A very touching tribute that honors the dogs we love in all stages of their lives. If you'd like to order the book, signed copies are available at thedogstudio.com.
As it turns out, the best souvenirs are free. Relaxation. Laughter. Memories. Inspiration.
Most tourists will hit the big cities, dashing from one monument or museum to the next as they "do" Rome, or they "do" Venice. But my first visit to Italy was a business trip for my former employer, to a small beach town on the Adriatic called Pesaro. It was the last week in July and although my days were spent inside a dark photo studio without air conditioning, mornings and evenings were free to relax and observe the ease of the Italian lifestyle.
From my balcony each morning I watched the perfectly aligned umbrellas and lounges on the beach below being set up for the day. Soon entire families would arrive on bicycles and Vespas, looking forward to another day together enjoying the seaside. Later in the center of the town, la passeggiata, the daily stroll. I was smitten by the relaxed everyday life in this Italian town, and there was no turning back. After visits to many other Italian cities and towns since then I've discovered that it's everywhere in Italy, every day.
As I walked through the streets of Pesaro one afternoon, I had the idea for Pantofola. I wanted to combine my design background, my love for dogs, and this incredible country. Italian craftsmanship is the best in the world, so I knew the final products would be perfect. But I also wanted to do what I could to support this intoxicating way of life, this special souvenir, especially because so much of Italy's luxury manufacturing has moved elsewhere. I was going to create a new brand, raise money for dogs in need through profits, and make an investment in Italian craftsmanship.
Collezione Lido was inspired by the time I spent in Pesaro. A day by the sea, the relaxed carefree attitude, the color palette and combinations, my own intangible souvenirs from that trip. In the photos below, you can see the translation from my view from the hotel balcony to final product and fluffy friend.
People love getting presents, and people love their dogs. For these reasons we enjoy putting together each package, because the only thing better than receiving a gift is sending one. We do always wonder who the lucky recipient might be: a dachshund, beagle, or Frenchie? A little mixed breed pup by the name of Max? We'll probably never know, but it's always fun to imagine the possibilities.
When a shopkeeper takes the time to carefully wrap a purchase it's such a special treat. Even when the item is just for you, this added touch is always so appreciated and thoughtful. While on a trip to visit a tannery I bought a somewhat ordinary coffee mug from a kitchen shop in the small Italian town of Biella. I'll always remember how the woman behind the counter took the time to wrap it so beautifully, it felt like my birthday. So when I began to consider the options for packaging Pantofola collars, I wanted to provide the same care. After all, a new collar for your best friend is a big occasion!
We begin with our black and white gift boxes, and tuck a super soft pocket that holds your collar inside. Underneath we place a card with your purchase information that bears our seal as certified Pantofola production from Italy. The card also serves as a reminder of our pledge to donate a percentage from your purchase to dog rescue organizations worldwide.
It's a few extra steps, and it's our pleasure to take them. We only hope you enjoy receiving our package as much as we enjoy putting it together. Here's to you, Max!
