Happy Friday: Craft Congress & Buzz Jewelry

I had the pleasure of meeting Kristen Billings who designs a jewelry line called Buzz Jewelry based in Cleveland, Ohio. Her passion for using reclaimed and vintage materials is truly evident in her work!

If you detect a palpable creative buzz in the air, it might be due to the fact that this weekend is Craft Congress here in San Fran. From April 4-6, crafters and designers like Kristen from around the country gather for a business development conference to discuss, network and contribute conversation to all that is the evolving craft and design movement.

Happy Friday everyone--hope you go out and support your favorite indie designers and shops this weekend!

Shop Friend: Vintage Joy

I came across these adorable rings made of vintage buttons by Vintage Joy.
They remind me of the candy rings from childhood!

above: flower power for your finger. The rings are adjustable which are just about the only rings both my sister and I can wear b/c of our small fingers.

above: this ring is appropriately named "Candy Dots."

Glass Act: Dale Chihuly

It is always mesmerizing to see world renowned artist Dale Chihuly create personal, autobiographical works through such large scale glass installations. But I also have a fondness for his sketches and drawings that precede or are inspired by those works.

above clockwise: Seaforms Drawing by Dale Chihuly. I LOVE his delicate/frenetic hand! Zoe & Morgan skull opal earrings. Hand painted Matthew Williamson gown. Jimmy Choo snakeskin heels.

Above: Perhaps the one that many of you have encountered is his Fiori di Como installation at the Bellagio Hotel in Vegas. The floating, ethereal installation defies its weight of over 40,000 pounds!

Trash the Dress: John Michael Cooper

A bride from our Paper Studio recently brought in her "wedding binder" and I was so struck by her clips of wedding photography because she was on a mad hunt for something out of the ordinary. One of her clips was from John Michael Cooper, who likes to create alternative shots of the bride and her dress, sometimes juxtaposing them in stark landscapes much like a narrative fashion shoot.

Above: Before clicking onto John Michael Cooper's site, let me first forewarn you, his tag is "bad ass approach with an alternative edge to wedding images." A NYT article on his work was entitled "Is this Any Way to treat Vera Wang?" Don't be scared by the shocking opening photo to his site (ok, well I was too!)...but as you go through his work you'll see his captivating perspective of couples and narrative. Cooper also started Trash the Dress, which could be quite an alarming title for a bride to be! But no worries, this site was created to "celebrate" the bride and her wedding more than to trash it.

above: Photographer Heather Cole captures a bride in "suspense" of her nuptials!


above: Mermaid or bride? This beautiful photo was taken by Del Sol Photography.
These photographers are all on the Trash the Dress site. If you are looking for some truly unique shots and perspectives for your wedding, the site publishes a directory of photographers in your state.

Monday Run

Like many of us, I run to leave the stress behind and to connect with the intangibles. And even though it's Monday, I'm still enjoying some of the endorphins from being out and about over the weekend. I almost never think about wardrobe and prefer just the basic necessities: shorts, wicking shirt, Nano and my pair of Brooks. But I've been seeing some pretty fabulous workout getups on my customers lately...one of them was wearing what I thought was a chic, knit sweatshirt and I was floored to hear it was from the Hearts collection designed by Scarlett Joahnsson for Reebok.

With the abundance of top designers and celebrities designing athletic wear, there are no more excuses for you fashionistas out there to hit the gym! above: Stella McCartney's modern, wearable workout wear for Adidas.

above clockwise: Some fashionable motivations for you to get out there and lose some of that winter weight or tone up for your wedding: Scarlett "Hearts" Reebok knit warmup sweater. Serena Nike tennis dress. Stella for Adidas running shorts and dance top. Scarlett Retro sneakers for Reebok.

above: A sketch of my quiet weekend run path to the ocean.

Happy Friday: Cat Seto Tattoo?!

I know...you're probably wondering where our usual Happy Friday post is where we have something sweet and sugary and girly up for post right?


Well, we all ditched cupcakes and sugar for a day and headed on over to the tattoo parlor and our new Shop Friend: Picture Machine.


It was a mad scramble over to the parlor after work to witness someone (we are sworn to secrecy as to who) on the team get a tattoo of one of our flower designs. We're pretty sure we freaked out the tattoo artist with our cameras and constant crowding over the counter to make sure everything went smooth.

above clockwise: The floral outline and Chanel blue petals were inked onto the small of her back in a matter of minutes. While waiting we asked the tattoo artist what the latest trend was and he showed us an album of photos where customers have been asking for mustache tattoos on their finger (who knew?!). The last step is applying the bandage...no belts, no swimming, lots of lotion (but no aloe vera) for the next two weeks. The tattoo came out beautifully!

Have a happy Friday and weekend everyone!

All Work and No Play: Anya Hindmarch

This time of year we are in full design mode here at the studio and I love Anya Hindmarch's wallets, especially this orange one that reads "work" in such an official, preppy way!

above: The line also produces great bags and shoes (with an "up and at 'em" attitude) for the office.

above: Homeward bound...but with those shiny flats maybe a quick cocktail with the girls first!

Shop Friend: Addiction Salon

I love all of my chic, modern bridal clients and lately I've been hearing about their quandaries for adding some drama to their more modern, simple sheath and column style gowns. One client is wearing this beautiful Junko Yoshioda gown with a dramatic back. Her requirements are: no veil, no gloves, no jewelry (except for her grandmother's vintage teardrop earrings) and the teensy-tiniest of bouquets.

I came across this stunning updo created by Ilona over at Addiction Salon. A work of art like this needs only the simplest of earrings and gown and will cause some jaw dropping when your guests see you walk down the aisle.

above: At Addiction Salon, a revolving gallery of art is also shown for purchase or perusal while you are being styled! The salon is located inside a loft in the Potrero Hill neighborhood where Ilona also cuts sleek, mod styles.

Tea for Tuesday

I think Tuesdays deserve a little tea (hibiscus!) and tranquility.

clockwise: Jennifer found some pictures from her recent trip to an Egyptian tea market where fragrant dried hibiscus sat in bushels. On a hibiscus hunt: vintage embroidered buttons from Skiddoo. And a whimsical "hibiscus" rose wrap to sip your tea in.

Shop Friends: Pleasing Pantry

Designer Sue Rich of Pleasing Pantry truly elevates the products in our studio,
and not just in a flattering way! She creates one of a kind pedestals from
orphaned vintage plates and the results are absolutely beautiful & personal statements
for your home or party. Just imagine stacking these with candies or savories for a stand-out bridal shower or tea! Sue is wonderful to work with and has such a great eye that I asked her to share some words with us on her passion.

above: aside from great touches for your event or wedding, the miniature
pedestals are perfect for placing your jewelry atop


Sue, where do you find inspiration for your vintage pedestals?

I make frequent trips to the East Coast where I comb through
flea-markets and antiques shops, and I am always inspired by the detail
and craftsmanship of the items that I discover and rescue.  On my
travels I collect anything that catches my eye, from orphaned vintage
pieces, to vintage kitchen linens or even old picnic baskets.  I am
often tempted by various random items that now sit in my studio until
the perfect idea to recycle them and give them a new life hits me.


What is your background and has this always been something you've been
interested in?

As a younger woman I studied Graphic Design in Boston.  When life
carried me to Seattle from the East Coast, I noticed the nostalgic
pieces I loved hunting for back east were far less prevalent here.  I
then conceived the idea to turn my hobby of collecting and transforming
these treasures into a business. I've always valued the nostalgia and
comfort these vintage pieces evoke.

What has been the best thing about starting Pleasing Pantry?

Rescuing these orphaned plates and creating a beautiful, useful
pedestal is a joy for me. The icing on the cake is when a customer is
surprised to recognize their grandmother's pattern and the excitement
they feel knowing they'll enjoy looking at it daily. So many people
pack their china away in a cabinet and enjoy it maybe once a year.  My
pedestal's enable people to bring a little of that specialness into
their day to day lives.

What has been the hardest?
For me the hardest part has been finding the time necessary to run
the 'business' aspects of the business. I run the entire business on my
own.  I do the designing, marketing, packing and shipping, and
accounting myself. I recognize that soon in order to continue growing
my business I am going to have to get some help. This is the hardest step
to make.


Where in Seattle are your favorite little haunts to shop, eat and hang out?

Seattle is a great city for enjoying good food made with local and/or
organic ingredients, great shopping offering local artisans, and an
always booming indie music scene. I live in the Capitol Hill
neighborhood and often visit the Volunteer Park Cafe
(alwaysfreshgoodness.com ). The owners are two of the nicest girls
you'll ever meet and everything they offer is delicious. Try the freshly
baked chocolate chunk cherry cookie, egg and prosciutto panini and a
pomegranate lemonade. Yes, I eat the cookie first.


Thank you Sue for your inspiring work! Please click here to see more of Sue's
designs as well as a list of locations where you can purchase her products.

Ring in your Friday!

Bemuse yourself with a wooly nest ring by Felted.


And in honor of our studio's make-believe holiday... celebrate Cupcake Fridays with a felted one on your finger!

First Day of Spring: Janus et cie

Happy first day of spring! Time to start taking a peek at outdoor decor...or at least allow yourself to bookmark ahead for those warm, sunny months that are just around the corner...

above: I love the outdoor furniture that Janus Et Cie dreams up.

This bench is a classic from their "Botanical Estates" collection.

above: "Jardin" chairs in adult Easter pastel shades!

above: the "Obelisk" is a sculpture for your garden by day and a set of silvery rattan chairs by night!

above: whimsical "Love" benches

above: this "Poet Bench" is worthy of any zen garden

for the wall: Curtis Jere

I came across spiky urchin like sculptures hanging in the family room of a beachy, Nantucket home in the recent issue of House Beautiful. I loved how interior designer Frank Roop gave the cozy home some modern flair using the work of 60's metal sculptor Curtis Jere.I love his sunburst pieces! I found all of his work shown here at 1st Dibs.

Domino and Drew Barrymore

The April issue of Domino features Drew Barrymore's gorgeous new Flower Films offices decorated by Ruthie Sommers.
Spirited, spiritual, irreverent and full of laughter and musings...are you a Drew Barrymore? I thought I'd put together a little of her style.
Above clockwise: I think of Drew as the ultimate hi+low girl. She is true to her style and views and seems fearless in surrounding herself with things that echo her spirit. Ensemble by Porridge. Prada bag. Chooka rain boot. Vintage tea cup. Absolut pillow. Green Thumb Designs earrings. Pura Lopez pumps.

St. Patrick's Day Manolos

...and couldn't resist a green shoe post today...
a sketch by Mr. Manolo Blahnik of his beloved Elizabeth mule.

Happy St. Patrick's Day Martha Stewart Style

How to celebrate St. Patrick's Day on a Monday? Food with friends and family...and tips from, not surprisingly, Martha Stewart who has a whole feature on her website with recipes and ways to celebrate.
Above clockwise: Irish Soda Bread, Pistachio Lime Tart, Shamrock Shake, Clover Cookies.
All recipes are from Martha Stewart with exception to the Shamrock Shake which would make a great Monday beverage of choice! I don't know about you, but growing up my sister and I were obsessed with McDonald's Shamrock Shakes (and still are!). I'm sure this was in large part because it was green and only presented itself during this time of year. Below is a much healthier adult version of a Shamrock Shake recipe which also uses soymilk and vegetable dyes.

Shamrock Shake
ingredients:
2 cups vanilla soy ice cream
1 1/4 cups 2% milk or soy milk
1/4 tsp mint extract
1/4 tsp crushed mint leaves
8 drops India Tree food coloring (or liquid vegetable food coloring)
Combine all ingredients in blender on high until smooth
Stop blender to stir ice cream with spoon if necessary
Pour into 12 oz cups and enjoy!

Farewell Tea at the Rotunda

Today is production assistant Mariko's last day with us as she leaves for Japan. We've watched her grow from intern to a master of all things production at our studio. She watched our orders like a hawk and eagerly contributed to our daily binges with sugar (now that's a team player!). We wish you continued success in Japan and we will miss you Mariko!

above: a farewell tea full at the Rotunda was in order.

Happy Friday to all of you!

Shop Friend: Natalie Bowen in the Studio

I posted earlier this week on Natalie Bowen's beautiful floral designs. We were so very lucky to have her stop in to personally create an arrangement for our studio!

Natalie chose shades of green, coral and peach to contrast with our pink shelves. Because our space has so many multiple levels and angles, she explained it was best to go with an arrangement that was low and compact.


Using our vases, she created arrangements that were sculptural, commanding yet demure. True to her style, they looked utterly fresh and organic. I received compliments all this week from admiring clients on how gorgeous they were.

Thank You Natalie for being so amazingly talented and for stopping in to create such special arrangements for us! If you are looking for a floral designer who will bring out the natural beauty of your event (or create a very special bouquet for your home) click here for Natalie's info!

Shop Friend: A.Jaron Fine Jewelry Part II

I'm back with more of Amanda Jaron's work and her answers to some of your reader questions about accessorizing!

Amanda, what inspires your jewelry design and collection?

As an artist you never know where your next inspiration will come from.

I find my inspiration from everywhere. Originally, I was inspired to make jewelry by the simple romantic idea of making sculpture out of gold and diamonds!

My past few collections have been inspired by interior design. This spring my collection makes reference to chandeliers as well, as garden elements. I am carving gemstones into custom made pendants that reference chandelier prisms. I am currently working on a collection using bamboo and rattan elements cast in 18kt gold and applied to sterling silver.

What has been the best part of being an indie designers in your industry?

Being able to work exactly when and where I am inspired. I worked in NYC for over 10 years. I enjoyed working in NYC, I even miss it at times. I treasure the everything I did and everyone I met there. But, as a designer working in a corporate workplace is difficult. To say I am only going to be creative from 9-5 and I will be especially creative for the big board meeting at 2:45 on Tues...is near impossible.

My office was dead center between Times Square and Rockefeller Center. I would dream of the palm trees, sugary sandy beaches and crystal clear water from my childhood.

Back in Florida for the last 3 years,I have found the perfect balance. I LOVE living in paradise year round and designing couture pieces for my clients. Yet, at the same time designing collections for Saks Fifth Ave and The Home Shopping Network allows me to still work with corporate companies.
What has been the most challenging?
Doing it all! Staying on budget! I have caviar taste and enough new ideas in a week to fill the jewelry cases at Saks Fifth Ave in NYC all on my own!

Now for some reader questions.
Joan from Texas wants to ask: I wear suits everyday for work, what is business appropriate that is not so boring?
My signature look is pearls. Many people feel that pearls are too dressy for work. I disagree. I believe in pearls. I believe in wearing pearls with a t-shirt and jeans. But, I plead with anyone wearing a suit to NEVER wear a basic strand of 6mm "GRANNY" pearls! That is BORING! Always do something to update them.

I am on a mission to reintroduce pearls back into young people's wardrobe. Wearing your pearls a suit would be a great place to start. One way to make your pearls seem fresh and young is to twist them with a sterling silver chain and make a 2 row twisted collar.

Watches & bracelets-- how do I make it work without looking like I'm overaccessorizing?
My philosophy is that "It can never be too big or too much!" However, I know that not everyone is comfortable with that. My advice is to invest in 3 watches: 1 small scale casual, 1 small scale dressy and 1 crazy "fashion right"oversized style. So, if you are wearing your dressy bracelets wear them with your dressy watch. That way visually they appear to be just a stacking of bracelets. The oversized watches are a statement all on their own and could look like too much if you are not careful.


Claudia from San Francisco wants to know:
Is there a rule of thumb as to how many areas you should limit your jewelry to wear at once (earrings, necklace, bracelet, etc)? There are really no rules in fashion today. I believe in feeling comfortable and making fashion a personal statement. I can say the first rule is to always have a pair of hoops or studs on hand. NEVER leave the house without earrings! I believe that hoops or studs can act as a neutral if you are wearing a big necklace. You do not want to look too matchy matchy. So, having just a simple hoop/stud to pair with the big and bold neck is nice. On the contrary, if you are wearing big earrings, I would say no necklace and pair it with a stack of bold bracelets.

What would you predict will be the next trend in jewelry?
BOLD COLOR, bracelets will continue to be hot for Spring/Summer '08. I am doing a line of bold Resign Cuffs that will come in an array of vivid colors for The Home Shopping Network that are inspired by my $10,000.00 18kt gold cuffs for Saks Fifth Ave!

Thank you Amanda for your great advice! If you want to see more of the A.Jaron Fine Jewelry line, click here for her website.