Store tour: Jonathan Adler's colorful and funky world

It was, as they say, destiny that the Jonathan Adler store and I would meet. A little silly, perhaps, but I can't help thinking this because I really did just happen upon his store by accident. It's hard to believe since I'm a big fan of his decorating philosophy, but I had no idea that there is a Jonathan Adler store at the Fashion Island mall in Newport Beach. First of all, the mall is huge, the stores tend to be hugely expensive and I'm on a strict budget these days, but sometimes even a little window shopping can feel like retail therapy, especially when it's outdoors.

You can imagine my surprise when I walked by with my kids and immediately spotted the colorful interior.

Jonathan Adler speaks my language!

Elegant yet fun

Cozy to the max

Retro hip

Perfect dose of pattern

Feminine and flirty

Kid-size sofa with loads of style

A little over the top

for a girl’s bedroom, but oh so fun

Choices galore

You’ll want more than just one

Pretty housewares

See you again soon!

I should mention that the salespeople were absolutely the best, ever so helpful and friendly, allowing me to take as many photographs as I wanted. Their friendliness made my store experience a pleasant one. I would expect no less from a store named after a man whose manifesto says: "I believe that your home should make you happy."

These photos are really just a taste of the many Jonathan Adler products available, but I must confess that my favorite piece of Jonathan Adler is his first book, "My Prescription for Anti-Depressive Living." Obviously not a tome for the unhappy, but a guide for creating a home that makes you happy. He has two other books out, which I hope to get my hands on soon.

The Jonathan Adler store in Fashion Island is one of twelve in the United States. It's at 579 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach, Calif. (949) 759-0017.

I hope these glimpses into Jonathan Adler's world brightened your weekend.