{Graffiti} Happy, Merry, Bright!
Welcome to Happy. Merry. Bright!
For unique and authentic holiday gifts, I turn to pop-up shops that feature local artists. It’s absolutely amazing how talented our neighbors are. I took a few snaps of my favorite finds at Happy.Merry.Bright, a shop at Fieldwork Gallery featuring Pittsburgh based artists and chatted to the women behind it all – Lauren Doyle and Leigh Solomon Pugliano. Read on below to see the gorgeous pieces, shop, and learn about more Lauren and Leigh’s inspiration.
Ella the Elephant Stool
GG: Lauren & Leigh, tell me a little bit about yourselves pre-Happy.Merry.Bright!
Lauren: I’m the author of The Modern Lady Official and cultural attaché born, bred and educated in Pittsburgh. I studied Economics at the University of Pittsburgh and have spent the last few years consulting, writing, dating rockstars and working with non-profit organizations as an advocate for at-risk youth.
Leigh: I am originally from Guyana, South America. My family moved to Pittsburgh in the 80’s, and I’ve been here ever since. I began my professional career working for a world-renowned luxury retailer, managing markets in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. Three years ago I started my second company, Straightforward Consulting, offering HR and Business Development services to small businesses, startups and nonprofit organizations. I’m a busy wife and mother of three young girls, a musician, music educator and advocate for the arts.
Is it dinner time yet? – Alla Famalgia Vodka & Marinara Sauce
GG: What was your inspiration behind opening Happy.Merry.Bright?
Pittsburgh is filled with movers, shakers, and doers, and we wanted a way to showcase their talents in an elegant and shoppable boutique environment. Many of the products sold are from local artists, creators, designers and entrepreneurs. And we wanted a store that hosted unique shopping experiences–live music, complimentary gift wrapping and delivery, and private shopping events.
Stunning Necklace by Wanderluxe Design
GG: What 3 items are on your wishlist this Holiday season?
Lauren: Inspiration, experiences, and anything cashmere.
Leigh: Two days of rest and relaxation, two days of rest and relaxation, and two days of rest and relaxation
GG: What’s your go-to gift to give?
Lauren: Soyil candles, which are sold at Happy.Merry.Bright! They’re delicious smelling, hand-poured, all-natural, and a gift that lingers for quite some time.
Leigh: A beautiful ornament, preferably handmade.
Toulouse Cashmere Shawl
GG: Why is it important to shop local?
Small-business owners are passionate about what they do and care personally about their customers. You’ll find authenticity instead of scripted recitations, and your hard-worked dollars stay right where they belong, within the community.
Chrisu Scarves
Rings from the ‘Born to Be’ Collection by Moriah McCullough
Headbands from the ‘Born to Be’ Collection by Moriah McCullough
GG: What’s your favorite Holiday tradition?
Lauren: Smooching under mistletoe.
Leigh: Christmas Eve mass and decorating the Christmas tree with my family.
Soyil Candles by Greta (Had to take one home!)
Stop by Happy.Merry.Bright ’til 12/27 to shop Pittsburgh’s local artists’ best gifts at 4925 Penn Avenue.
Where do you love to shop during the Holidays? Comment below!
