Cool Stuff: San Francisco Gift Fair

I had about two hours today to (literally) run through the San Francisco International Gift Fair. I'd never been before, so I wasn't sure what to expect -- though I'd been warned that there would be a lot of Hallmark-store junk.

And, indeed, the fromage factor was significant. (I also wasn't quite prepared for the absolute vastness of the show, which is housed in two adjoining convention centers, each the size of an enormous airplane hangar. Nor was I ready for the olfactory overload caused by the hundreds of scented candles, incense, and room sprays wafting about the place. Hours later, my head is still throbbing from them. And I admit I that was a little frightened by the big hair, heavy makeup, and lacquered nails sported by many of the show attendees.)

Still, in between the "Fun Shui" kits and the winged-angel wall hangings and the country-fried decor and the -- egads! -- holiday decorations was the occasional great booth.

My favorite was Roost's gorgeous labyrinth of a space, which I pretty much just wanted to move into right then and there. I think the Roost reps were a little amused (and maybe a little annoyed) that I kept drifting back to fondle their goods (did I mention that I *love* Roost?). They also came at me with fingers a-waggin' the second I whipped out my camera. So sorry, folks -- no pretty Roost pictures today.

But here are some shots of other lovely booths and their enticing wares:

Teacup Clock from Umbra's new U+ line

Thomas Paul pillows

Tea towels from Simrin

Laminate trays from France's Ibride

Pretty beaded-glass pendants from Lunares

Rubber vases from Menu via Creative Danes

Frameable wrapping papers from Elum Designs

Pine-veneer pendants from La Vida Verde

Pagoda Lanterns from HomePort Collections

Designers Guild throws

Delicately beautiful bud vases from Burlingame's j.mendicino

Funky hands light from Nancy Funk Ceramics of Emeryville