FIELD TRIP! HEDLEY & BENNETT HEADQUARTERS

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

I can't tell you how excited I was to take a field trip to the Hedley & Bennett headquarters and get a closer look into the most amazing apron (and now homewares!) line in all of the land. Ellen Bennett, the founder and designer, is not only one of the hardest working people I know, but she's one of the coolest too. Ellen is a truly kind and positive person who seems to always be having fun (while dominating the world, of course). It's plain to see exactly why she went straight to the top in just two short years. A former line cook, Ellen created her aprons with no design background - just instinct and her experience in the kitchen. Looks like her instinct is spot-on. Not only are her aprons gorgeous, they are the real deal and built to last -- worn by top chefs across the country. Every Hedley & Bennett product is handmade in Los Angeles using top-grade materials such as American canvas, raw Japanese selvage denim and European linens. 

In addition to her aprons and chef coats, she recently expanded her adorable kids' apron line and added homewares -- including napkins, pot holders and chef caps. 

Sis and I, along with our favorite photographer -- Jenna Elliott, took a tour of the H&B headquarters and saw just how fantastic apron making with Hedley & Bennett really is. 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

A warm welcome into the headquarters. 

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Is it just me, or do these aprons totally excite and inspire you? I would actually like to wear them as outfits.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Stacks of gorgeous aprons with her signature "&" logo on the pocket. 

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

You can get caught up on Hedley & Bennett's story right here on the wall.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

I could hang in this light-filled room all day. Hope you don't mind if I do, Ellen!

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Bright and cheery from her Spring 2015 collection.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Prettiest wall.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Ellen's inspiring mantra.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Love these napkins, recently added to the collection.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

I couldn't wait to jump right in and start trying aprons on. I am already a proud owner of several H&B aprons but "Red Rover" was calling my name!

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

The matching pot holder is perfect.

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

Sis loved hers too!

 

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

photo by: jenna elliott of one eleven photography

The perfect ending to the perfect apron afternoon. Thanks for the push and the tour Ellen! We are proud to be members of the #ApronSquad! xx

DTLA'S POKETO

Located in DTLA's Arts District, POKETO is a one-of-a-kind boutique with a little something for everyone. I really love and want to support stores, like this one, that carry wonderfully unique and handmade pieces, that you can't find just anywhere. I especially love their perfectly put together displays -- each with its own theme, telling its own story. Founded by husband and wife team, Ted Vadakan and Angie Ayung, POKETO recently opened a second location in Koreatown's Line Hotel. Here's a look into the flagship store.

The cash register displays house jewelry, sunglasses and Mast Brothers Chocolate.

I love this camp themed display.

The colorful and lively childrens' display, in front of datebooks and greeting cards.

Beautiful pouches, clutches and jewelry are displayed next to gorgeous brass desk accessories and pens.

Another story being told with this beautiful theme. And the copper watering can is outta sight!

Lovely homewares, books, baskets and two fabulous marble clocks.

A selection of design and entertaining books and magazine.

Handmade ceramics, flatware and other special items for the home.

Genius "LA" mugs.

And I saved the best for last: golden playing cards. I'll take a deck please!

POKETO is located at:

820 E. 3rd Street 

Downtown LA, CA 90013