Joyeux Noël!

Happy Holidays to our family, friends, customers and supporters! We have closed the doors on our 3rd Holiday Season in the Old Oakland community.

While 2008 has been a challenging year for us all, we are appreciative of the support and patronage our customers have shown us. Small businesses like Mignonne will make it through the tough times with the support of the community.

We look forward to 2009 and another year of being part of Oakland's diverse family. Kim will be returning soon to France, on a mission to discover new small treats and treasures to share with you all.

We plan to have our next shin-dig in January! We are excited to usher in 2009 and Change Change Change! as we welcome a new president, a new direction and a New Year!

We'll post more details soon, until then ...

Thank You ALL and much love from Johnelle and Kimberlee!

Toast of the Town!

T'is the season ... the party season! and we've got cool vintage barware, sparkly new glasses, bar and wine books, funky winestoppers crafted from old vintage doorknobs ... well you get the picture ... we've got what you need to entertain in style ... gift your favorite lounge lizard ... and bring in the New Year with flair!

Stop by SUNDAY, December 21st and pick it all up for 30% OFF our already affordable prices.

We've got the mimosas waiting!

Don't Miss Out on a Week-end Of Last Minute 2008 Holiday Savings!

Mignonne is helping you with the final countdown to 2008's Christmas. We'll be open everyday until Christmas ... including Sunday AND Monday.

Our daily hours will be 11:30 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. through Christmas Eve.

This week-end we'll have hot coffee and wintery treats, along with 30% Off Savings on all store items (except local artists). That's right, Saturday and Sunday you can stop by and finish checking off your list with unique gifts you won't find at the BIG BOX stores.

We have GREAT stocking stuffers, beautiful candles, luxurious soaps and lotions, robes, music c.d.'s, AFFORDABLE original artwork from several local artists, men's shaving lines, baby gifts like French bibs, Oaklandish onesies, handmade toys, Robeez footwear, French baby books and more. You'll find holiday decorations, our usual terrific vintage glassware and we've even got a jump start on spring with a few new lines. All at AMAZING pre-Christmas SAVINGS!

Support MIGNONNE, your local Old Oakland gift boutique, SAVE 30% on beautiful treasures, receive FREE Gift Wrapping and enjoy some Christmas Cheer as you finish off the season with ease.

Hope to see you there!

Thanks to all for a terrific evening!

Our 3rd Annual Holiday Reception was filled with holiday fun and good cheer! Johnelle and I truly appreciate the support of friends, family, and community throughout the year. We couldn't do it without all of you and we're looking forward to another year in Old Oakland!

There ARE Second Chances!

Did you miss Mignonne's 30% off, day-after-Thanksgiving Sale?!

Well, here is your second chance to get a great discount on a special holiday treat that won't be found at your local big-box store.

We are hosting our 3rd Annual Christmas Holiday Reception and BLOW-OUT Sale tonight, Thursday, December 11th from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Not only will ALL MERCHANDISE (except local artist's work) be 30% OFF, but there will be wine, fabulous jazz and holiday music by djenaturalselection, ongoing raffle drawing giveaways and double your Je Suis Mignonne frequent shopper stamps.

Stop by and meet local artists Valerie J. Cochran and Whitney Smith ... check out their affordably priced, beautiful and creative work that would make a wonderful present for someone you love.

That's right, 30% OFF the special items you love including VOLUSPA Candles, L'Epi de Provence Soaps and Body Products, Archipelago Candles and Diffusers, Mette Vangso aromatherapy gifts, Claus Porto soaps, DOUX soaps, great gift books, gorgeous new and vintage glassware, jewelry, holiday cards and décor, and our special array of beautifully restored vintage furniture and accessories.

As local Old Oakland small business owners, we truly appreciate your support and patronage for our third year in the community we love.

Hope to see you there!

After Thanksgiving Sale At Mignonne!

30% Off All Store Inventory!!!*

10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Friday, November 28th!

*local artists' work excluded

We are opening early to offer you great savings on all store inventory* at Mignonne.

 30% Reduction on our already affordable prices ~ a sale you won't want to miss!

We have gifts for every budget ~ starting at $5!

Stop by for freshly-brewed coffee and yummy poundcake while you browse all the great choices in stock ... 

Time for a headstart on holiday shopping and of course,, your opportunity to support your local Old Oakland retailer.  We have new inventory to peruse and we will be offering FREE gift wrapping ... All this at your favorite Old Oakland boutique ... Mignonne!

List Making Time!

Gorgeous Hand Thrown Pottery Pieces Now at Mignonne!

We are very excited to introduce the work of ceramic artist Whitney Smith at Mignonne.

Whitney began "throwing clay" in 1994. Whitney says her design sense is primarily informed by her obsession with flowers and other forms found in nature. She has painted and drawn since she was a small child. Whitney likes the look and feel of old things and antiques, and her glaze choices have a certain look that reminds people of an different era.

She also tries to emulate the craftmanship of an earlier time. Unless otherwise noted, all of her pieces are thrown on the potter's wheel first, then carved and textured into their final shape.

We have selected some great choices that would make a lovely addition to your home or a wonderful treasured gift for the holiday season.

What's better than functional art that you and your family will admire and love with each use?

Pictured is Whitney's Cake Stand with Bird.

New Voluspa Candles Have Arrived!

Voluspa continues to be one of our most popular candle lines at Mignonne.  Not only is Voluspa committed to using the highest quality waxes and fragrance oils in their candles for a clean, long-lasting burn ... but their beautiful and inventive receptacles make lovely accessories for the home.

We recently received a new shipment of the following fragrances:

Goji & Torocco Orange - Goji berries grow on evergreen shrubs in temperate, sub-tropical climates and the scent is combined with Torocco Orange, similar to blood orange.

Makassar Ebony & Peach - Woodsy ebony combined with peach create a sensuous result.

Frost Pinecone - A perfect hostess gift for the holidays, with scents of forest cypress, pine needles and pinecone seeds. Beautifully boxed and ready to go!

Speaking of Artists.

"delauers" - Valerie J. Cochran, photographer

We recently introduced our other featured artist at Mignonne, Valerie J. Cochran.

Valerie's photography has been featured in print publications as well as many online sites including the BBC, Photoblogs Magazine and SFist. She has also self-published a photography book.

Valerie's work received rave reviews during our recent Oakland Art Murmur art reception.

At Mignonne, not only do we seek out compelling local artists to provide a venue for their work...but we are committed to helping our customers bring beauty and art into their homes by finding affordable options to meet a wider variety of budgets.

Valerie's work can be purchased at Mignonne at $50 per print. Her work explores the relationships between people and places in an urban landscape, and utilizes only film photography.

Treat yourself and your home environment to the added dimension original artwork can provide.

If you'd like another chance to see her work in person, mark your calendars for December 11th when we will be hosting a Closing Reception for Valerie's art. More information on the event will be shared as the date draws near.

Welcome Back Gary Comoglio!

We are thrilled to welcome back, by popular demand, the works of local artist Gary Comoglio.

Gary's art captured the imagination of many of our customers and we are delighted to feature his paintings again during the holiday season. Here's a bit about Gary and his process:

Since graduating from San Francisco Art Institute, Gary's main creative focus has been acrylic painting and Japanese wood block printing.

By changing colors and constantly challenging his completed works, Gary Comoglio is able to create a body of prints that captures the interplay of light to evoke different moods and emotions in the viewer.

He employs European, American, and Japanese techniques to produce the final printed image. Using linoleum as the base material, Gary hand prints all his own prints, the majority of which are one-of-a-kind.

"I am dedicated to creating unique images drawn from my surroundings, and mastering precise technical skills in carving and hand printing. My art is inspired by images from my daily life: I focus on simple beauty, brilliant colors, and strong composition."

When he is not painting, carving or printing, Gary is enjoying one of his other passions which include playing golf; cooking with fresh produce usually purchased at local farmers' markets; spending time with family and friends; motorcycling along the magnificent Bay Area's roads; drinking Sonoma County zinfandels and pinot noirs, New Zealand sauvignon blancs; eating fine cheeses and chocolates; watching British Comedies; and traveling.

A sampling of his works on display and available for purchase at Mignonne, through the end of the year, are shown in the slide show below:

Tonight ~ Art Opening and Sale at Mignonne!

Join us tonight from 6:00 to 9:00 PM for a wine reception celebrating NEW work by this month's featured artist. Tonight's reception is in conjunction with Oakland's Art Murmur ... so plan for a great evening in one of Oakland's hottest neighborhoods.

Take advantage of our Huge Store Sale while you're here. See you there!

23 Months: Stories of the Street

Valerie J. Cochran

yourwaitress.com

Gifts for every budget!

Mignonne Featured Artist ~ Valerie J. Cochran

Mignonne is pleased to introduce our latest featured local artist! Valerie J. Cochran grew up in Missouri and arrived in the Bay Area on January 1, 2001. She currently lives and works in Oakland. Valerie has been shooting photography since she was a young girl and began with Polaroids of her family. She took her first photography class at the age of 15 and studied for a few years at the Savannah College of Art and Design although she did not obtain a formal degree.

In 2004, Valerie began her photoblog, YourWaitress.com. Her return to photography was documented in the early days of the website which has become a home to her now usual suspects of street photography and portraiture. Valerie's images today explore the relationship between people and places in the urban landscape. She shoots only film photography with various 35mm, disposable, and toy cameras.

Valerie's photographs have appeared in print publications such as JPG magazine and PhotoJournal Southwest. Her work has been featured in numerous other publications online including the BBC, Photoblogs Magazine, FILE magazine, Flak Photo, Filmwasters.com, and SFist. In February of 2007, she self-published her first photography book collection, your waitress | 2004-2005.

Valerie's work will be featured in our next Oakland Art Murmur late night reception.

Special Holiday Hours at Mignonne!

We're helping you prepare for the upcoming holiday season with new hours and a new store design.

Mignonne is extending our closing time until 9:00 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, October through December. Old Oakland is a favorite destination, and we'd like to help make your visit easier ... now you can plan to stop by Old Oakland for dinner and some holiday shopping.

We've also organized the store to accommodate all of your shopping and gift budgets. We make it easier to find just the right gift in just the right price range ... with vignettes grouped at $10-$25, $25-$50 and $50-$100.

Gift ideas include lots of new goodies, one of a kind vintage furniture & knick- knacks, candles, soap and local art! You can find a special small treasure from France ... or an original piece of artwork. Don't forget our custom refurbishing service ... maybe you have something you would like designed for a special someone? Just ask for a free consultation.

Custom Painted Furniture and Décor at Mignonne.

We recently told you about our custom services for refurbishing furniture and assisting with design make-overs. We thought you'd enjoy seeing a couple of pieces in progress, courtesy of co-owner Johnelle. If you hold your cursor over the picture, you'll see a brief description.

The lovely, refurbished table that would spice up your fall décor is offered at $185.00 at Mignonne. How's that for a one-of-a-kind bargain?

Weekly Peek ~ Cooking! Eating! Drinking!

We've got your new and vintage style injection just in time for the entertaining season! Here's a little appetizer ...

Custom Furniture Refurbishing at Mignonne

Do you have a vintage piece of furniture you just KNOW has good bones but don't know where to begin? Have you seen a piece at Mignonne or elsewhere that you love, but would love more in a different color or fabric?

Mignonne provides services customized to fit your needs. We consult with you on room makeovers, color schemes, shopping assistance and furniture refurbishing and design.


Johnelle uses her art and design background to partner with customers on creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces for their homes. She can personally refinish, repaint and restore your vintage treasures as well as consult with you on selecting fabric and coordinating reupholstering as needed. From contemporary designs to a hip punch of color, we work with your style to come up with inspired ideas for your home.

Fees for services vary by the project, but like everything at Mignonne, you'll find the cost fair and affordable.

Give us a call for a free consultation regarding your project. With holidays around the corner, and budgets slimmer this year, perhaps a sprucing-up is better than buying new? We (and mother earth) definitely think so!

Affordable New French Soap Line at Mignonne

La Petit Marseillas, a trusted French brand with simple packaging and quality ingredients. Soap from Marseilles is a familiar item in most French households. It is renowned for its simplicity and value. Typically olive oil based, pure and natural components ensure it is biodegradable and eco-friendly.

What's better than using a soap that dates back to antiquity, is pure and vegetable based and at an affordable price? We've brought in Lait (milk) and Verveine & Citron for you to try.

French Reunion!

You may have noticed that Johnelle has been missing from Mignonne the past couple of weeks. That is because she has been here in France visiting me and enjoying a well deserved break!

In addition to a couple of side trips (Paris and San Sebastian, Spain), Johnelle has spent time painting and treasure hunting with me in the petite brocantes here in the countryside.

She left for the States this week, bearing lots of new French finds for Mignonne and some good stories to share as well. If you are too far to visit Mignonne, keep your sights set here ... we'll be posting pictures of what's new in store.

Weekly Peek!

Here's a glimpse of what's on display currently at Mignonne ~ Stop by soon for a closer look ...

Browsing for Baby!

We've refreshed our baby stock, and our new intern, Hannah Fenves has created some pretty displays showcasing all the beautiful items we have for the little ones. Now's a good time to tuck away a special holiday treat for the babies in your life! Do some window shopping now and stop by soon to check off your list!

Thinking of changing your tabletop for fall?

Mignonne has everything you need to update your look. From a beautifully redone dining set in matte black with 4 matching chairs with toile seats, to interesting combinations for your table top.

We are all about incorporating vintage and fresh new designs at Mignonne, not only for the beauty of the mélange, but because it is gentler to Mother Earth!

Take a look at this inspired combination of old and new in an interesting mix of colors (soft washed blue, chocolate browns and warm gold tones). All colors you'll see as you stroll the blocks of Old Oakland these days and observe the turning season.

Shown in these photos are large, square blown glass chargers in tones of soft blue, generously sized plates with a simple bird graphic in brown, topped with vintage smaller plate (salad, dessert?) in warm gold with a geometric brown design.

All of these pieces are extremely versatile and could be utilized as platters, serving pieces, or dinnerware.

The table setting is displayed on pale brown linen placemats bordered in soft blue, and a bold, floral design cloth napkin repeating all of the same color scheme.

We've mixed it up further with some gorgeous vintage amber glassware. You can click on the photo for a closer view.

There's lots more where this came from at your favorite place for French-inspired décor, Mignonne.

Stop by soon!

Changing Seasons ...

Falling leaves, crisp mornings, the harvest moon ... Autumn is on its way, as reflected in our final window design by Mallory Vogel, showcasing some one-of-a-kind furniture and décor pieces designed by Billy Kroft.

The perfect seat to gaze at autumn colors or a crackling fire. Sip from a vintage mug, admire the reflections seen in a beautiful painted mirror. The birds on the chandelier can adorn your sitting area as well.

This vignette captures the tranquillity and easy pace of the fall season as another year slows to a close (click on photos for closer view).

Introducing our new Merchandising Intern, Hannah Fenves

We are delighted to introduce our merchandising intern for the coming quarter.

Hannah Fenves grew up in the east bay and graduated from Saint Mary's College of California with a degree in Studio Art. She is interested in how design can influence people's perceptions of the environment they are in, whether it be graphic design, fashion design, or interior design.

She also enjoys collaborating with other artists to create installations that are layered, unique, and colorful; juxtaposing elements that are not often paired together.

We anticipate some great collaborative outcomes from Hannah partnering with Johnelle to design our popular store windows and in-store vignettes.

As a reminder, Mignonne has extended our commitment to local artists to include creating opportunities for young aspiring artists to demonstrate their creativity and gain experience in décor merchandising. We have a rotating, 3-month internship program for design and art students in our local community.

If you know of a local artist or student in the area that would be interestested in our program, have them contact us at Mignonne (contact details in our blog header).

We will be interviewing for the new year (2009) rotation in December.