If you own a Vera Bradley® bag, you know these accessories have intricate, colorful patterns. Maintaining these beautiful and high-quality bags takes special care, as they can use several materials in their construction. Here are some strategies to help you clean your favorite purse, backpack, or luggage.

How Can You Maintain a Vera Bradley Bag Properly?

1. Check the Care Label

Most items, including Vera Bradley bags, have a tag inside with care instructions. This can tell you whether to hand- or machine-wash it, as well as what temperature the water should be. Some items indicate to dry-clean only, and some can burn if you try to iron them. Generally, you should hand-wash Vera Bradley items in cold water, but some are machine washable. Then, after washing the bag, leave it in a well-ventilated area so that it can air dry. If you are using a washing machine to clean it, close the zippers and buttons first. 

2. Keep Materials in Mind

One of the most significant factors in caring for a Vera Bradley bag is the material that it uses. For example, you cannot wash leather and performance twill as easily as fabric, and you must spot-treat these accessories. Also, avoid washing bags with cardboard bases because this can destroy the backing and contribute to mold growth. Likewise, performance twill and leather can lose their texture and form when wet.

3. Spot Clean Carefully

For small issues on your bag, use a nonbleach laundry pen or a mild solution of vinegar and water to remove stains on accessories that you cannot wash. If the stain is stubborn, apply a drop of detergent or dish soap and let it sit for 30 minutes before proceeding. Then, rub the pen or solution onto the spot, being careful not to get the bag too wet or soapy. Next, use a damp cloth to remove the residue. Lie the bag flat to air dry.

If you’re looking for a new Vera Bradley bag for yourself or a friend, visit Treehouse Gift & Home in Onalaska, WI. Since 1988, this gift shop has been one of La Crosse County’s best sources for religious gifts, candles, rugs, kitchenware, and home decor. Call (608) 433-7896 to speak with a friendly team member about your needs. 

One trend we’ve seen for this spring is decorating with softer colored succulents. Look for the type that are very realistic and offer a variety of soft colors.  ​The color can vary from green to pink and purple on the same stem, they are getting so popular that even black succulents are trendy this year! ​

​Succulents have long since been a favorite plants for several reasons, one being, that the live succulents seem fairly easy to keep alive. If you forget to water one for a long time, like most of us tend to do, you’ll find they thrive anyway! They actually like dry soil. So, each year I fill a bird bath out front with some new live succulents. I water them a few times just after planting, and I let the Lord do the rest. Then, they live all summer and fall some even return to greet me the next year. You’ve got to love succulents; they make us all feel like we have a green thumb. By the use of color and texture you can instantly change the look and mood of your room!

Succulents mixed with terrariums have really emerged this year too! Try one on your office desk or even on a bookshelf in your home.  Make a room come to life by adding a little green! 
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Come take advantage of the Buy One Get One 50% Off Succulents at Treehouse Gift & Home while it lasts! Bring your own vase, or find one at the store. We compose arrangements and wire florals, free of charge. Bonus: these artificial succulents live forever!

Mother's Day is around the corner, and the bond between you and your mother is worth celebrating. However, you may be overwhelmed by all the choices of gifts that you can give her. If you need some inspiration, review the following options.

What Are Some Creative Gifts That Mom Will Love?

1. Diffuser

Being a mom is hard work. If you want her to relax and unwind, consider getting her a calming diffuser. This trendy alternative to potpourri adds freshness to the entire house. Designs range from clean-cut and modern to old-fashioned elegance, so choose a style that matches her preferences. If she likes floral scents, you can find lavender and rose options.

2. Memory Box

Memory boxes are a beautiful symbol of shared emotions or experiences. Many are inscribed with meaningful quotes or artwork. Specially designed for display, you can fill these containers with meaningful tokens, such as old photographs or jewelry. You can also tuck in a handwritten note explaining the sentiment behind each item. 

3. Collectible Mug

A mug may seem like a simple gift, but it’s a daily reminder of your love. If your mom is constantly running errands or working, look for a travel option that can fit in her car. The design can also include a special phrase like, 'Best Mom Ever,' so she thinks of you every time she takes a drink.

4. Bath Bombs

If your mom likes to get pampered, she'll love a set of scented bath bombs. The effervescent fizzing will make her baths refreshing, and she'll feel like she's visiting the spa in her own bathroom. You can also choose versions that moisturize and care for the skin.

Whether your family traditions for Easter include cookie decorating or not, these Easter delights deserve a little admiring! We want to bring you our top 4 Cookie shapes to decorate this Easter. You'll find these cookie cutters in store just in time for Easter as well!

1.  The Cross Cookie Cutter: what better way to teach your children what Easter is all about than to have several hours alone baking and talking with them about our Great God while making some Easter Cross Cookies. That sounds like a family tradition worth starting! 

2. The Unicorn Cookie Cutter - every little girls dream is to see a unicorn, and we think this unicorn cookie cutter makes a great addition to your cookie cutting collection. This could be the perfect gift from Grandma to her grandbaby.

3. The Bunny Cookie Cutter: everyone needs a classic Bunny to ring in spring and add a little curious bunny to the mix.

4. The Classic Egg Cookie Cutter: with hundreds of decorating options, the traditional Egg gives kids lots of freedom to decorate in so many different patterns!

Make baking cookies with the kids, nieces, and nephews an Easter Tradition this year.  For these cookie cutters and more Easter Gift ideas, be sure to shop your local Treehouse Gift & Home where the professionals can help you find the gifts and decor you are looking for. Happy Easter!