Sunday 26 August 2012

Back to School in Style!


We can't believe it's almost that time again, the kids are off back to school for another year! We know that Back-To-School shopping can be stressful, which is why we've put together a fantastic collection of accessories guaranteed to get the new term off to a great start! And it's not just students we have in mind, we've got loads of goodies for teachers too!







Perhaps most important for starting the new school year is finding the perfect school bag, and we've got loads to choose from in our collection. From vintage and travel-inspired bags and satchels by Disaster Designs to Gorjuss bags in all different sizes and designs, you're sure to find the bag for you!










The collection has bags for girls of all ages, so whether your wee one is off for their first day of primary, or entering their final year at secondary, we've got the bag for her. This Fuzzy Nation Bag is perfect for dog-lovers!































Next on the Back-To-School list is stationary to be proud of! With a huge selection of journals and notebooks, as well as some cute pens, organisation will be easy and homework is bound to be less of a chore! Our favourite is this Organisational Notebook from Gorjuss! 







These Morris Memo Holders are a must for any organised desk! They are practical and will help you keep on top of your notes, as well as bring a smile to your face every time you see them!











Lunchtimes are an important time of the day, a chance to recharge your batteries and get to know your classmates better! This cute Yoohoo Carry Case is perfect for packed lunches, and is bound to be the envy of the dining hall! 







Stay refreshed and hyrdated with one of our lovely Water Bottles! We've got plenty of designs to suit all ages and tastes, to ensure thirst is a thing of the past!














This funky little Cat is from our huge range of Keyrings, and is a sure-fire way to brighten up your bag or make your keys easier to find! We love it's big button eyes and quirky bead detail!









Studying sometimes requires use of a laptop, and now you can keep yours safe and stylish in one of our gorgeous Protective Cases. From sleeves with secure zip fastenings to carry cases with handles and straps, you're sure to find one to take your laptop or netbook from drab to fab!




We have loads more School Goodies in store and on our website, so take a peek and you're sure to be kitted out for study in no time! Best wishes for the new term from all here at Maia!


Thursday 28 June 2012

Time for Tea!

A GREAT EXCUSE TO HAVE A TEA PARTY!


At Maia we believe that tea shouldn't just be for the Jubilee, and now tea-lovers everywhere can enjoy their favourite tipple al fresco with our new range of vintage tea party accessories


As big fans of social gatherings and girly get-togethers, we've got some top tips for making your vintage tea party a success:


1. Choose tableware worth talking about. The key to a perfect tea party is to have your cupcakes and sandwiches displayed beautifully! This Birdcage Cake-stand from the decadent Pastries and Pearls range is ideal and will definately be a talking point among your guests. 


Even better, afterwards it can be used to display jewellery and trinkets in a totally unique way!






No tea party is complete without fine crockery. The Pip Studio collection has lots of charming accessories such as this Vintage Teapot from its Shabbi Chic range. 








Team it with this Regency Roses porcelain cup and saucer for a laidback look!










2. If you prefer disposable, don't sacrifice the look. No-one can be bothered cleaning up after a party. But if you're going to go down the disposable route then it is still easy to pick up items that belong at your vintage tea party, like these gorgeous paper plates!




3. Fresh doesn't have to mean Tupperware. Don't spoil the effect you have created by storing your French Fancies and cream teas in a plastic box. Pay attention to the little details and store them in something that is pretty enough to sit on your table, like these Regency Cake Tins!




4. Dress the garden beautifully. Set the atmosphere by scattering some rose petals, lighting pretty tealights and draping some flower garlands. Special little touches will help create a romantic atmosphere that your guests will love! These cute hanging owl tealight holders work perfectly with this rose flower garland!













You could even hang up some bunting for a festive feel!Flag Bunting | Pastries and Pearls
5. Serve in style. There's no point going to all this effort only to then carry the teacups out by hand! Why not transport them your crockery in vintage style with some baroque-inspired trays? These Romantic Mirror Trays have classiness written all over them and are available in different sizes to suit smaller or larger parties. Afterwards they make the ideal resting place for the perfumes and cosmetics!


6. Dress appropriately! There is nothing more fun than getting into character! Why not don a vintage apron, curl your hair and raid the charity shops for clothes from a by-gone era? Slip on a summer-inspired necklace such as this Poppy Teardrop Pendant from Shrieking Violet's range of real flower jewellery, or how about this Antique-style Watch Pendant









If this has just served to whet your appetite you can get even more inspiration from Angel Adoree's The Vintage Tea Party Book, packed full of advice and ideas for your very own garden party!




We'll take milk and two sugars please!



Check out more at www.maiagifts.co.uk!


Wednesday 9 May 2012

Dolls too Gorjuss!

SIMPLY GORJUSS!- COLLECTABLE DOLLS

As all Gorjuss fans wait eagerly to get their hands on the new Special Edition Gorjuss Dolls, we are delighted to announce that the range is heading our way this week! Being fans of Suzanne Woolcott's Gorjuss Art right from the beginning, we are chuffed that the range has become a huge hit. The initial launch of the Gorjuss Doll Collection will consist of 3 exciting Gorjuss Girls in a fantastic 'Rag Doll' style and Maia Gifts is lucky enough to be one of the first suppliers worldwide to receive them! Woohoo...

Gorjuss - Collectors Doll - Toadstools
Available to buy from our online store the dolls arrive with us on the 10 May 2012 and having already seen them ourselves, they can only be best described as simply Gorjuss!

Each hand-crafted doll has it's own unique style, capturing the essence of each Gorjuss character which translates beautifully into a life-like doll, that no doubt will be treasured forever! As with all things Gorjuss, the dolls are perfectly detailed, and of the highest quality.

Suzanne's ability to capture a brooding and gothic sense in her art makes these dolls something rather exceptional. A vision of innocence with an underlying depth and mystic.

As you would expect with a growing global following, these Gorjuss Collectible Dolls are high in demand. That's why we are giving you the opportunity to guarantee the doll of your choice by pre-ordering them now!

These are the first three dolls to be launched of a whole range of limited edition Gorjuss Collectable Pieces. Initially only 600 of each doll are being produced. So don't miss your opportunity, grab yours quick!

And in true Gorjuss style each plush doll comes in a High Quality Display box. The Ultimate Collectors Piece!
                                                                
    

You can buy these Gorjuss Dolls now by visiting our website: www.maiagifts.co.uk

Our price is £69.99 - You will also get FREE UK Delivery with same day dispatch!



PICK YOUR FAVOURITE GORJUSS CHARACTER!
The first three modern collectable dolls to be launched are:
Santoro Gorjuss 14-inch You Brought Me Love Doll
Gorjuss You Brought Me Love Doll - 14"
Gorjuss Toadstoll Doll - 14"







  • Ruby - is a favourite of many, dressed in a gorgeous red dress carrying her pet cat.
  • You Brought Me Love - With her long dark tresses flowing and her stripy tights she is complete with her Squirrel Friend by her side
  • Toadstools - is doning the trademark Stripy hat and accessories and accompanied by her Hedgehog Friend

  • All High-End Collectible Rag Dolls - By Santoro London in connection with Aurora World.

                                                                    


    Gorjuss Large Shopping Bag | Family in a Book


    You cans also buy from our range of Gorjuss Bags, Gifts and Unique Stationery: Gorjuss Collection






    Tuesday 28 February 2012

    Mothers Day



    Mothers Day is fast approaching – 18th March to be exact! – and at Maia we know how important it is to indulge the woman who has given you so much. But as much as we love our mums, we know they are not always easy to please. That’s why we have put together a fantastic collection of Mother’s Day gift ideas, perfect for celebrating your lovely Mum! There are presents for all ages and tastes, and to suit all budgets. We care about making her feel special, which is why we stock only unusual and unique products!



    For mothers who love to be pampered – and what mother doesn’t? - we’ve got plenty of great Mothers Day present ideas amongst our collection of toiletries and accessories! From our delicious-smelling bath bombs to our stylish toiletry bags and luxurious Nougat Range, there’s loads of gift ideas perfect for making her feel a million dollars! We've got loads of yummy-smelling candles and fragrance diffusers too!



    For the Mum who deserves to put her feet up with a good cuppa, how about one of our Mothers Day mugs or a gorgeous vintage-inspired Regency Teacup and Saucer? You could even offer to put the kettle since it's her special day! Hee hee..


    A gift from our jewellery collection is a wonderful way to show your appreciation, and we have a wide range of styles from all over. Check out our current favourites, our collection of "Made with Real Flowers" Jewellery, a bloomin' brilliant Mothers Day present idea (excuse the pun!).These really are something quite unique and special and have been very popular instore!



    At Maia we all agree that mums' cooking is the best, and for Mums who love their kitchens, you can find loads of bakery books,teatowels,and kitchen accessories. Our brand new Pastries and Pearls range is full of cute vintage-inspired cakestands and table decorations! You never know, you might even get a cake or two out of it! We’ve also got plenty of gift ideas for elsewhere in the home, ranging from our vintage telephones to our classy jewellery stands! Our range of vintage fashion books and accessories are perfect for Mums who love to look good, and our huge collection of sweets are a real treat for sweet-toothed mothers!



     Pastries and Pearls Cakestand

    If you’re looking for gift ideas to make her giggle on Mothers Day, look no further than our collection of novelty products, ranging from our Ring-For-Coffee Bell, to our comedy gums, books, badges and wall signs.  No matter what makes your mum special, at Maia Gifts you’re bound to find the perfect present to show her you care
     this Mothers Day!

    Pip Studio Blue Senseo Mug 
    So there are a few Mothers Day gift ideas for anyone who is looking to make their mum feel like one special lady on March 25th! Though the greatest gift you can ever give her is undoubtedly your love and appreciation,it's always lovely to show you've made that extra effort with a heartfelt gift. :)

    To see all the products mentioned and much much more visit www.maiagifts.co.uk



    Sunday 19 February 2012

    Food For Thought - Pancake Day!

    Shrove Tuesday 2012 - 21st February 


    We love Pancakes, and will definitely be celebrating this Tuesday indulging in lots of yummy pancakes!! Mmm mmmm...... You may wonder why much of the population dust off their large frying pans and start tossing pancakes this time of year!?! Well Shrove Tuesday falls the day before lent begins (Ash Wednesday) which traditionally is a time of abstinence, of giving up things. So it’s the last chance to indulge or in many people’s cases, that excuse to see how many pancakes they can eat in one sitting (Check out our delicious pancake recipe below!). Some even celebrate with pancake races. Tossing pancakes on the run sounds pretty fun hey! 


    Monster Glasgow Pancake Race next year anyone!?!





    What is lent? The idea back in the day was that people use up 'forbidden' foods before Lent in order to avoid spoiling and waste. (Fat, butter and eggs were forbidden being luxury items). The 40 days of lent would then allow them to reflect inwards, spiritually grow and connect with Jesus who fasted for 40 days and nights before the Easter feast.

    So why am I posting all this!?!  Although many of us may not be Christian and perhaps some Christians feel maybe the meaning of Lent has been lost, I see it as a good time to make a fresh start and give something up!?! Why not! We all want to develop, become healthier and happier and this is a great time to do it. Food is such an important part of our being and as they say, you are what you eat!

    I have personally never participated in lent, but this year I’ve decided why not!?! So why not join me and many others out there and give something up. In my case Sugar! Arrrghh... I typed it! Should have just typed Chocolate. No going back now (this is a big deal for anyone who knows me!). Growing up with mum’s delicious cakes and like many now enjoying all things sugary (throughout the day) it's going to be tough! The plan is to significantly cut back on my sugar and chocolate so its not an addiction, but in balance, and 90% natural sugars.

    Last year while taking some time out in Thailand I decided to do something different rather than just laze about on the lovely beaches and undertake a detox program (madness, I know!). And you wouldn’t believe it, it was one of the best things I ever did. Hilary, the lady who ran the course was a fountain of knowledge and really educated us fully on food, the impact it has on the body while also providing a concoction of herbs and a special detox diet.

    I felt fantastic afterwards. The best I can remember ever feeling! I was bouncing around, rejuvenated, full of energy, with total clarity and feeling like pure health!  I realised how every meal has such a huge impact on our emotional and physical state and it felt a little crazy how many of us aren’t even aware the impact that a normal western diet has on our mood and overall health, and what we are doing to our bodies long-term. Our education, like our diet has gone so out of whack!  

    Beach at Dharma Healing Centre, Thailand



    So after Thailand my whole world of food changed and I was actually excited by the thought of healthy food! My boyfriend and I went “raw”, eating mainly raw fruits, vegetables nuts and seeds and it felt amazing, and the food tasted it (although it wasn’t always easy!). So now we eat a lot more consciously. Not so much raw but eat healthy wherever possible apart from the sugar addiction! So that’s why I want to break it. Get back in balance and feel fab again. Feeling full of life and not depleted in energy from another sugar crash!

    So whether you feel the pull to give up a luxury of some sort, start a new diet or simply EAT the pancakes this Tuesday, hopefully you can take something from Lent spiritually or in some other way to allow yourself to grow, feel full of life and even happier! But first lets eat the pancakes.........


    FLIPPING BRILLIANT PANCAKE RECIPE!


    Prep 10 mins
    Cook 20 mins
    Note: there is some rest time inbetween.


    Ingredients


    140g plain flour
    200ml whole milk
    2 eggs
    25g unsalted butter , melted, plus a little extra for greasing
    sweet or savoury fillings


    Makes 10-12 Pancakes


    1. Sift the flour with a pinch of salt into a medium-size bowl and make a well in the middle. Mix the milk and 100ml of water together. Break the eggs into the well and start whisking slowly. Add the milk and water in a steady stream, whisking constantly and gradually adding the flour as you go.


    2. Whisk until the batter is smooth and all the flour has been added. Put the batter to the side to rest for 30 mins, then whisk the melted butter into the batter.


    3. Heat the pan over a medium heat. Very lightly grease the pan with melted butter. Using a ladle, pour roughly 2 tbsp of batter into the pan and swirl it around so the bottom of the pan is evenly coated. You want to use just enough batter to make a delicate, lacy pancake. Cook the pancake for about 45 secs on one side until golden and then using a palette knife or fish slice, flip the pancake over and cook the other side for about 30 secs until it freckles.


    4. Slide the pancake out of the pan and either serve immediately or stack on a plate with baking parchment in between. Continue until all the batter is used up.


    5. Add flavour. 
    You could add orange or lemon freshly squeezed, cinnamon or even finely chopped herbs to the batter, depending on what you fill the pancakes with.


    I love adding freshly squeezed lemon afterwards, with some sugar sprinkled on top (surprise, surprise!) or maybe some nutella!

    ________________________________________________________________

    And for those of you who want a yummy healthier vegan option click here!

    Flipping Brilliant!!!


    By: Samantha @ Maia