We all scream for Ice Cream!

Sunny days in the city have me in the mood for some ice cream.

Mini Soapsicle, kc Soaps N more

Ice Cream Cone Rubber Stamp, Cupcake Tree

Soft Serves 1, Wendy Anne Crittenden

Vintage Ice Cream Scoop, Sheer Fab

And we have to have some of the real thing! I can't wait to try the Bliss Organic Ice Cream in Ginger!

But, my absolute favorite is Peppermint Stick available these days from Wilcox Dairy, Vermont. Takes me back to trips to Friendly's when we were kids. Sugar cone, always.

JUDGING A BOOK BY IT'S COVER

The saying really is true...that you shouldn't, obviously! It is a sure fire way to miss out on some fantastic experiences and generally limit your exposure to wonderful things and people in life. BUT...when it comes to the presentation and packaging of something, it can be hard to resist choosing a product when the box/colour/pattern/label really appeals, overriding the relative merits or necessity of the item.

With this in mind, I thought I would pick out some booze for you, based on the visual appeal alone. Don't get me wrong, I would consider myself to be a very discerning drinker as it was my job for over 15 years...well the drinking part was an added bonus (not strictly required in the restaurant biz but it would be like a vegan working in a butcher's, not exactly a cozy fit). I know my fair bit about wine, beer and spirits and can see past the glitz when it comes to choosing a quality drink, but I am only human!

Here are some picks for drinks I wouldn't walk past on the liquor store shelf...

Kate and Cassie Wine

Oronoco Rum

...And a couple that would have my bro parting with his hard earned cash I would suspect!

Colorado Native Lager

Purple Cowboy Wine

Now, surely it is Beer O'Clock?

(All items found by trawling the most fabulous, The Dieline)

DESIGN THERAPY: Packaging

I don't know about you, but I am often induced to buy something at the grocery store because of the packaging it comes in. Sometimes I buy an item just because of the gorgeous label or shape of the box, with no intention of eating or drinking what is inside. Sometimes it is the font used, the combination of colours or the witty interpretation of the item's use that engages me, but whatever it is that catches my eye, I am constantly amazed by the sheer genius of the designers who create this stuff.

I stumbled upon a site called The Dieline, which specializes in showcasing the most innovative and delightful packaging out there. Here are the some of the ones that really caught my eye...

Sverigemjölken (The Swedish Milk). See how the cow pattern is actually Swedish Counties? Clever!
La Compagnie de Provence Soap. I love the simplicity of the use of clean colour and minimal text. After opening up the packaging there are instructions inside to make an origami form out of it.

Botanical Bakery. Gorgeous illustration and overall feel to this packaging that delivers the Brand's image beautifully. See how the leaf is a smile too?


Some examples of work by Minneapolis based Designer and Illustrator Crystal Barlow.
Fancy Beer.
Eenie Meenie All In One Soap.

ABC Paper Cup. I can think of a million uses for this simple and cute product.

I think I have found my new obsession. There are literally hundreds of amazing packaging concepts on The Dieline for you to browse and fall in love with. Go on, have a look.

I think the best thing about packaging design is that it becomes so easy to own your own little piece of art, in the form of a box of tea or bottle of wine for instance. You can decorate and accessorize a space with carefully chosen items that will not break the bank....Hhhmmm, now there's a thought. I will keep you posted because I feel a project coming on!

(All images from The Dieline)