Raleigh moms create reusable, interchangeable decor

Jennifer Pittman and Becca Nelson, both Raleigh moms, got to know each other when their kids attended the same preschool. They began working together when they started planning parties for all their friends turning 40.

That's when they found that they really click.

"We work together really well," Nelson tells me.

They both work in creative fields - Pittman as a graphic artist and Nelson as a photographer, model and actor (she's as former Miss Tennessee USA). And as they planned decorations for their friends' parties, they starting wondering if there was a material they could use to cover tables, cabinets or other surfaces to create different looks.

They found the material, but the fabric, used on billboards or to wrap elevators, for instance, with advertising, was too expensive for big party decorations. They knew there had to be another use for it.

When the line was less than a year old, Pittman and Nelson got a big boost when The Container Store agreed to sell evREwares in their stores. The products also are carried at stores and specialty boutiques around the country and in Canada. They recently received nominations for “Best New Product” at the National Stationary Show in New York City and were dubbed “The Next Big Zing” in the children’s category product professional Dhana Cohen in Chicago.

The two are now busy designing new products and designs, often asking their kids what would most appeal to their friends. They each have two children - Nelson's are ages 5 and 7; Pittman's are 5 and 8.

"People are really excited about it," Nelson said. "Once we get it out there and they understand, they like it."

And, adds Pittman, the two friends are passionate about their product.

"I think that translates," she said. "We really believe in what we're doing. As much hard work as it's been, it's really fun."

The drink labels would come in handy during a New Year's Eve party. And the ties and other products would make great party favors.