There are so many wonderful shops in various cities and neighborhoods around the country - and thanks to the world wide web, you don't even have to live in the area to shop a good portion of them anymore!

I thought it would be fun to highlight a few shops here that you might not already be familiar with... starting today with Decatur, Georgia-based Heliotrope, which is full of fresh finds for the kitchen, dining room, bar, and more. A few favorites from Heliotrope are pictured here - and you visit them online at www.heliotropehome.com to see everything! Here goes:

Pictured at top:

1. Owl Pitcher Large by Two's Company - $29.95
I've been loving owls lately, as you might be able to tell from this post – and this contemporary all-white ceramic owl pitcher definitely fits the bill!

2. Owl Pitcher Small by Two's Company - $12.95
This small ceramic owl pitcher is perfect for serving milk or cream alongside it's larger counterpart.

3. Sweet Birds Salt & Pepper Set - $9.95
Sweeten up your tabletop with this adorable blue and yellow duo - fashioned from earthenware with a glossy glazed finish.

4. Matte Stephens Placemats by Modern-Twist - $15 each
Made from hand silk-screened non-toxic silicone with a minimalist aesthetic, the Modern-Twist placemat is designed for optimal functionality with an easy-to-clean surface. I'm especially loving the fun, artistic vibe of this particular design by artist Matte Stephens.

Pictured above:

5. Silicone Dog Pot Grabber - $10.95
I actually own one of these silicone pot holders and absolutely love it.... ultra-flexible, so easy to clean (no washing machine required) - and they can withstand temperatures from -58 to 446 degrees!

6. 40 oz Modern Whiteware Pitcher - $15
This glazed, glossy ceramic vase is perfect for serving beverages in style... or use it as a fun vase for displaying fresh florals. (Also available in 82 oz size)

7. GurglePots - $40 each
This fish-shaped pitcher produces a whimsical gurgling sound when you pour from it! Made from durable stoneware; several colors available.

Pictured above:

8. Jane Jenni Plates - $8.50 each
Set a table full of personality! Jane Jenni's colorful melamine plates are full of clever word-picture combos to describe all your favorite attributes. Plates are sold separately, so you can pick and choose your favorites!

9. Head Chefs Pastry Brush - $9.95
Get the little ones excited about helping out in the kitchen with colorful, kid-friendly tools like this fun pastry brush. The unique design includes bendable arms and legs with soft silicone bodies which fit comfortably into small hands, and the feet acta s suction cups so that the brush can stand up on it's own! (Coordinating spatula, whisk, mixing spoon, and measuring cup also available.)

10. Wine Lines - $7.00 / set of 12
Can't find your chianti? Misplaced your merlot? Don't fret. Wine Lines are here to save the soiree. Insert the band through the slot and tighten around the stem of your glass. Voila - your rosé is recognizable!