I
the buzz
School Frills
Logo blankets, ergonomic backpacks and more.
Conege Cover—Up
Book Smarts
When Eric Ceresnie and Jordan Wolfe — friends since they were 6 — gradu-
Choose the right backpack for back-to-school according to your organizational
ated from college in 2004, they realized how much money they'd spent on
needs. Options include pockets for water bottles, built-in organizers, padded
college memorabilia that did not last. So Eric's mother, Paula, owner of Names
compartments for laptops and a spot to nestle your iPocVMP3 player — all
features in the SwissGear Serge Computer Backpack ($49.99; above) from
in Knit, offered her 20 years' experience, and the three West Bloomfield natives
brought to life BlanketU's knit blankets designed to last a lifetime. Licensed
with University of Michigan (Eric's alma mater), Michigan State University and
Indiana University (Jordan's alma mater), the blankets can be custom designed,
too. (248) 470-9824; blanketu.com
— Jeanine Matlow
B 1 2 •
Staples. Also hot, says Amy Shanler, director of public relations for Staples, are
ergonomic straps, better weight balancing, air flow padding for the back and
mini backpacks for carrying lighter loads. Staples.com
— J. M.
One Step Ahead
Magic Carpet Ride
As the new owner of Seashells Children's Footwear in Southfield, John
Outdoor rugs not only help to define au naturel spaces, they serve
Parry is all about offering quality footwear for children with per-
,
sonalized service. Inspired by his son, who is autistic, and using his
to make the outdoor areas feel cozy and homey. These out-durable
rugs, available at English Gardens, also are fantastic indoors — in
background in marketing and sales, Parry says, "I was ready to have a
little more fun working with , kids." For back to school, look for hard-
high-traffic areas of the home and perfect for the dorm. Made of ole-
to-find European brands, like Geox and Primigi, .funky versions of Vans
solid colors including brick red (shown), black, slate grey, gold, green
(above) and high-end accessories like diminutive handbags and stylish socks.
and espresso brown. Also available: braided rugs in rich earth tones.
(248) 948-7888; seashellsfootwear.com
(800) 335-GROW; englishgardens.com
AUGUST 2008 •
J-N- platinum
M
fin and polyester, the rugs are stain and spill resistant and available in