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NEW YORK CITY GUIDE: TOBY'S ESTATE COFFEE


What: Toby's Estate Coffee, the chicest coffee shop you ever did see. A Brooklyn favorite brought to the city and nestled within Club Monaco's stunning flagship store. 


Where: 160 5th Avenue, Flatiron

Why: Antiqued mirror menu, bistro chairs for catching up with a friend (or the New York Times), delicious cold brew coffee, dreamy white subway tile, conveniently located next to The Strand for leisurely book shop browsing. In other words, how soon can I move in? More New York City recommendations here.

Keep up with Design Darling

COME SEE WHAT'S NEW!


Happy June! I'm excited to unveil our first batch of new arrivals for summer... Baubles and matches and paper, oh my! This assortment is a colorful mix of some of my favorite designers like Julie Vos, Loren Hope, and — brand new to the boutique — Kate Spade! Personally I'm most excited about the tube matches (bright and summery in lime green or chic and neutral in taupe) and the Greek key scarves (a unique layering piece for the excessively air conditioned Starbucks where I bring my laptop). It's truly a privilege to work with so many brands I love and every new collection we roll out feels like a mini milestone (even two and a half years in!). 

I hope you'll find a moment to click over and see what's new. As always, I welcome your feedback on what's working, what else you're looking for, and any brands, categories, products, or website functionalities you'd like to see us incorporate. Your insight, constructive feedback, and continued support mean the world to me. xx

HOW TO MAKE A PEONY WREATH



Want to make a peony wreath for spring and summer? Inspired by my friends Kelsea, Loren, and Sara Kate, I set out to create my own peony wreath before my sister came to spend the night at my apartment. What's more welcoming than a fragrant wreath made with everyone's favorite flower? Nothing, that's what. Here's how to make your own: 


1. Gather your materials.
You'll need the following:
- Green chicken wire
- Green floral wire
- Wire cutters
- Wire clothing hanger
- Greenery of your choice (I used a combination of boxwood and plant stems)
- Flower of your choice (I went with hot pink and white peonies)


2. Bend your chicken wire into the shape of your choice. 
Secure with floral wire.


3. Cut a wire clothing hanger and weave the ends into your chicken wire.
Secure with floral wire. If you have a strong hook or nail, you may skip this step.


4. Arrange greenery into your chicken wire.
Longer stems can be woven through the wire. Smaller pieces should be secured with floral wire. This would be especially easy with garland during the holiday season.


5. Place your peonies.
This is the fun part! I wound up using one and a half dozen blooms but you can adjust depending on your color scheme, whether you prefer an organic or structured look, etc. Secure with floral wire as necessary.


6. Hang and enjoy.
I almost wish I made this with artificial flowers so it would last forever but the smell is too good to resist. These wreaths would be perfect decor for a party or a wedding and definitely make a thoughtful touch for house guests. If you decide to make one, tag me on Instagram (@mackenziehoran #designdarling) so I can check it out!