Homes are notoriously materialistic, in that they only seduce human inhabitants as a means to acquire more furniture, cars, and jewelry. Submit to the whims of a persuasive domicile with today's Groupon: for $10, you get $20 worth of home décor at Ellis Home Decor & Garden's five locations.
A family-owned former pottery emporium for more than 100 years, Ellis continues to expand its collection of home accents, scented candles, and floral arrangements. The 13-inch high ceramic jars ($27.99 each) come glazed in light blue or olive green, each with a distinct earthen appearance that evokes the wisdom of ancient cookies. A Roman-numeral-decked old world clock ($16.99) bears the image of an ancient map, and a 16-inch mini accent lamp ($16.99) casts light on miniature books. In addition to its own artisanal accouterments, Ellis carries items by such crafty outsiders as Circle E Candles ($15.99+), whose stout wax blocks feature aromas from almond crème cake to kiwi strawberry. A rotating selection of seasonal décor and garden accessories, such as ceramics, lanterns, and flags, adds visual interest to the backyard landscape.
Ellis Home and Garden
The Ellis family traces its history of working with plants to the late 1800s, when they operated a pottery-manufacturing company in Texas. Current-generation family members build from their familial expertise at all five of their store locations, spread between Louisiana and Texas. Twice a year, the Ellises travel overseas to identify upcoming horticulture trends decided by UN meetings in The Hague. This has expanded their decorative focus to include all aspects of home décor to complement greenhouses filled with tropical blooms and locally grown shrubbery. Clocks, lamps, and vases score homeowners extra credit in interior-design classes, and fountains and outdoor furniture make gardens hospitable for warm weather. For those who want to get ahead on holiday decorating, they offer an extensive selection of seasonal decor and accents year round. The Ellises encourage creativity with hands-on classes in subjects such as making centerpieces, weaving wreaths, and tying ribbon into perfect bows.