a lovely, little blog

a little sale

2012-01-28T14:04:00.002-05:00

Use LITTLESHOP at check out for 15% off of your entire order! Enjoy! :)

in the shop!

2012-01-27T16:46:00.005-05:00

Coming soon (tonight) to the shop!

currently...

2012-01-08T11:12:00.004-05:00

cards designed by kristen solecki

These images pretty much describe what's been happening in my life at the moment. Working in my space & making new things for the Philadelphia Home Show. It's happening next weekend, on January 14th & 15th (Saturday - 10 A.M. - 9 P.M., Sunday - 10 A.M. - 6 P.M.) & will be at the PA Convention Center (1101 Arch Street). I'm sharing a space with my pal Kristen & we are pretty excited about it. This is the biggest event we've ever done, and we are a little terrified, but I think we've got this. I just hope I made enough stuff. I'll keep making things until my hands fall off. Come see us!!!!

a holiday treat

2011-12-17T13:31:00.002-05:00

Hi friends! Just a quick announcement! All orders placed from December 18th to December 29th will be shipped on December 30th, as I will be away for the holidays. Until then, please enjoy 15% off your purchase by using the coupon code, LITTLESHOP at check out. Have a wonderful holiday & thank you again for your continued support.

a shop update

2011-12-11T12:15:00.003-05:00

New pieces available today in the shop!

coming soon

2011-12-05T22:26:00.002-05:00

Just a sneak peek of some of the new items that will be available shortly.

50% OFF EVERYTHING!!!!!!!

2011-11-24T19:43:00.001-05:00

From now until Sunday, use THANKYOU50 at check out for 50% off everything in the shop!!!!!

holiday bits & life babble

2011-11-20T20:02:00.014-05:00

Hey friends. Just a little update to discuss a few things. Firstly, I'm working on some super awesome items for the shop, but due to shipping and other things out of my control, I'm afraid I won't have everything ready in time for the holidays. I hope I can make it happen. The shop will undergo some changes in the next few weeks and into the new year in regards to look & style. Of course, I'll keep it unique, but I'm experimenting with new concepts. Kristen Solecki & I are collaborating on something awesome, something I cannot wait to share, but for now, I'll keep that under wraps. I'll just say that it involves apparel and accessories. I know, cool, right?

Secondly, my twin sister, Mary, is opening a vintage shop, entitled Little Bird Vintage, named after our grandmother Tiba, whose Hebrew name translates to "little bird." We never met her, but she was one classy lady, indeed. My sister has an incredible eye and seriously guys, I've seen what she's collected so far. You're going to love it, I just know it. Her Facebook page is here & her Etsy shop is here.

Lastly, life has been crazy, as usual, and I can't believe we are already into November, almost December. I remember being in Philadelphia in May, thinking I'd never get to Thanksgiving break. A lot of breakdowns have happened and I've definitely had serious thoughts of leaving graduate school and Philadelphia. I almost did. I wasn't feeling inspired, and to tell you the truth, I'm still not. I'd rather pursue creative endeavors, but I think it's because I'm feeling very stressed and frustrated with other aspects of my life, that I'm taking it out on school, if that makes sense. I'm not quitting, I'm continuing. I owe it to myself and my family to do this. And I will. I am hoping I find a course or a person who will make this worth it, who will inspire me. It'll happen. Besides school, I've been exploring the city quite extensively, met some super rad people, and have been involved in some fun events!

Other things relating to relationships and people, specifically the male species, have not panned out as I thought they would. They'll probably read this and be like, HEY! What gives? Well, oh well. This is my blog, and I'll write what I want. I've made a few friends while in school, three girls that have been truly awesome and I am so grateful we met. They make me laugh and we all understand the craziness of our lives and graduate school. But sometimes, I have to interact with the male species. I hope that doesn't come off as rude or whatever to my ladies, but I think they know what I mean. I have always had the easiest time making male friends, and it is just something that comes naturally. It has and still does.

But dating, is difficult. You strive to make connections with people through your various interests & beliefs in the hopes that a relationship will come from it, or something that resembles a relationship. I thought it was because I was in school that I didn't have time to manage a relationship, but I'm not that type of person. I was in school for four years and had a serious relationship for that entire time. I can multitask. I think it's who I'm meeting, maybe. Or maybe it is ME? I don't know. Dating seemed easy in the beginning and everyone could do it because it's new and you're just beginning to know a person. It seems like things are different now. Life gets in the way, feelings get hurt, and connections with these people fade over time. Kind of hurts, but in the end, I have made a friend or two from this. Maybe in our day & age, it's hard to physically settle down and be in a relationship because our lives are so busy? But like I said, I did it before, and I can do it again...but should I? I was excited about the prospect of meeting someone, and possibly forming a relationship, but it doesn't appear to be in the cards, and you know what? That's okay. It is. This is just a learning experience for me. Right? I'm just rolling with this whole thing & if it happens, it happens. Until then, I'll be the single bag lady with the cat on my head at 10th & Market.

sale sale sale

2011-11-17T08:23:00.001-05:00

SALE SALE SALE - Everything in the sale section is $10 and under! I need everything to go, as I am making room for new, holiday items! Check it out here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/chelsea3349?section_id=7874275

a halloween treat for you.

2011-10-31T11:38:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween friends! In honor of my favorite day of the entire year, I'm offering my customers a Halloween treat! Use HALLOWEEN at check out for 31% off of your entire order! :) Happy Halloween! Coupon code is valid until the end of the week!

in the shop!

2011-10-23T12:58:00.004-04:00

All of these pieces are now in the shop!

coming soon

2011-10-22T10:22:00.002-04:00

These & a few other bits will be in the shop on Sunday!

a clover market sneak peek

2011-10-15T16:03:00.003-04:00

New pieces for Clover Market. Stop by tomorrow to see Kristen Solecki & I! 12 East Lancaster Ave., Ardmore, Pa. 10-4!

I am alive

2011-10-12T11:08:00.003-04:00

I'm alive. I meant to post about many things, including a shop update, which hasn't happened yet, because school is consuming my life, as it should, because you know, that's what graduate school does.

I am participating in Clover Market again this weekend, Sunday, the 16th, with my awesome pal Kristen Solecki. I love having a booth pal who doubles as an awesome/talented friend.

We are super excited about Sunday, and we also have a really wonderful event, entitled "Art et Joie", coming up at Paradigm Gallery + Studio (2020 South Street, Philadelphia) on Friday, November 11th. You'll be able to browse, purchase, and meet our lovely faces, in addition to several other super talented artists who will be joining us. It'll be a grand time, for sure. I would love if you could stop by!

Other things are happening in my life, which are kind of exciting/terrifying/overwhelming/annoying, but I'm not sure if I'll turn this ol' blog into a personal blog. But, I kind of want to share about my life, because I do/think about other things besides jewelry. Soon enough, I suppose, I'll start babbling about my life, if people are interested in the rants of a twenty-something lady with a weird mind.

New things coming soon, I swear.

win a little somethin', somethin'

2011-09-14T10:47:00.002-04:00

Hi friends! Meagan from Mo Pie, Please is celebrating her two year blog anniversary & 300 followers! Congratulations! To celebrate her success, we decided to hold a giveaway and the lucky winner can choose anything from my shop! Enter here! :) Have a great day!

happy birthday to me

2011-09-08T10:05:00.003-04:00

I am 24 today (and so is my twin sister!)! Happy Birthday to me. Happy Birthday to my twinnie twin twin. To celebrate this day, use HAPPYBDAY for 24% off of your order. Good until Sunday!

things & SALE

2011-08-30T11:21:00.003-04:00

Hey friends. Things have been a little chaotic in my life, as I have started graduate school full time, and I'm trying to maintain the shop as best as I can. I've been back in Philadelphia for a few weeks, navigating the city and adjusting once again, to the hustle and bustle. This summer has been chocked full of mayhem, and up until a few weeks ago, I felt as if I was going to have a nervous breakdown from the stress I felt. Life has been very peaceful since my summer classes ended, and I am at a happy place in my life. I've been meeting new people and exploring the city, which I'm beyond thrilled about. My 24th birthday is approaching rapidly, and it makes me think how much life has shifted for me in the past six months. I moved to Philadelphia alone, experienced horrific car issues, went to school full time in the summer, and re-evaluated many friendships/relationships. It was a very, very difficult and painful summer, but I'd like to think I did a lot of growing as an individual. All is well. I have a few awesome events planned and things I'll be sharing with you all in the next few weeks!

I'm prepping for Clover Market with my pal Kristen Solecki, which will be awesome, yet again! I've been ordering supplies and making items until my hands feel like they may whither away into nothing.

In the meantime, there is a SALE going on at the shop! Enter HOORAY at check out, for 20% off of your order! :) Enjoy!

opal chips & triangles

2011-08-20T14:27:00.003-04:00

NEW to the shop - opal chip necklaces in white, blue, & pink and a sparkly bracelet. Enjoy!

teeny, tiny peacock ore post earrings

2011-08-11T17:44:00.003-04:00

These new, super tiny, peacock ore earrings will be in the shop shortly!

2011-07-31T19:30:00.002-04:00

NEW pieces are in the shop!

new!

2011-07-24T19:20:00.002-04:00

NEW! :)

coming soon

2011-07-04T16:22:00.003-04:00

Coming soon to the shop --- a few rings, a bracelet, and necklaces! The shop will be updated over the next few weeks with NEW items!

sneak peek

2011-07-02T09:17:00.003-04:00

A sneak peek (not the best picture) of some of the new things for the shop! More to come soon! Have a great 4th of July!

hello, sunshine!

2011-06-14T10:29:00.002-04:00

Enter HELLOSUNSHINE at check out for 15% off of your entire order! Enjoy!

Attention Philly friends!

2011-06-08T10:43:00.004-04:00

photo credit: penelope dullaghan

Hi all! Kristen Solecki & I were discussing the idea of having a trunk show to not only showcase our work, but other crafters/artists in the Philadelphia or surrounding areas. Before we set a date, venue, etc., we wanted to see if anyone had any interest/experience in this area.

We think it would be a fabulous way to display each individual's talent in one area, while providing shoppers with a unique, intimate shopping experience, as they can meet each of us & see our work! Let us know if you are interested possible doing something like this in the Fall at a local boutique, coffee shop, gallery, or other areas. Any suggestions, advice, or feedback would be very much appreciated.

new new new

2011-06-06T19:38:00.005-04:00

I never wear/keep anything that I make, but I decided to keep this triangle bracelet! I couldn't resist.

So many new things are in the shop! Peacock Ore (many rings)! Yellows! Blues! Check it out! A recap of Clover Market will be posted this week, too! :) Enjoy!

good cheer deal!

2011-05-30T12:13:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone! I'm happy to announce that I am participating in the Good Cheer Deal over at Danni's blog, Oh, Hello Friend. I'm offering the Parallel Highway necklace for $15 (original price $22) with free shipping in the US & $2 shipping internationally! Check it out if you're interested! Thanks Danni! :)

yo!

2011-05-26T18:03:00.004-04:00

Hi friends! Long time, no post. Sorry about that! As you know, I've relocated to Philadelphia & I've also started graduate school, so my time on the world wide web has been limited! I'd like to think I'm adjusting quite well, here in this city, all by myself. Luckily, I have family & friends in the area, too, so that is nice. I do miss my family very much & my two cats (hi guys!). I've been zipping around the city in my ol' car & parallel parking like a mad woman (something I truly detest!). I've been cooking up some awesome things in preparation for Clover Market with Kristen Solecki on June 5th in Ardmore, PA. If any of my readers/friends are in the area, please stop by! I'd love to meet you. I have a few other cool things to announce in about a week or so, so stay tuned for that. :)

a shop update - FINALLY!

2011-05-03T20:39:00.003-04:00

NEW!

new things & future things

2011-04-19T21:21:00.007-04:00

Hi all! I just listed six Peacock Ore necklaces in the shop.

This will be the last update for quite some time, as I am moving very shortly for graduate school & I won't have a lot of time to make new things. I will say that I have two, very cool things to announce in the next month, so stay tuned for that!

Also, on June 5th, I'll be participating in the Clover Market with the super talented Kristen Soleck i. I'm so excited to be sharing a booth with her! This will be my first time selling my work in person, so I can't wait! Enjoy these pieces & thanks so much for your support! :)

P.S. From now until Thursday, April 21st at midnight, enter LOVELYSPRING at check out to receive 15% off your order! :) (I will probably extend this!)

peacock ore rings!

2011-04-16T16:23:00.002-04:00

NEW

new new new!

2011-04-14T19:32:00.002-04:00

NEW NEW NEW

If you'd like, take a look at these new pieces that I just added into the shop. Many of them are one of a kind! My weekend will be filled with nothin' but Peacock Ore. Hold onto your hats, kids. Rings and necklaces in the best shades of this beautiful mineral!

NEW

2011-04-12T11:00:00.001-04:00

NEW

coming soon

2011-04-11T20:22:00.003-04:00

Look for these new necklaces & a bracelet in the shop tomorrow morning!

read all about it!

2011-03-31T20:40:00.003-04:00

Hi all! Recently, Jessica of Wayside Violet (here & here), contacted me about doing an interview for her blog! I said yes, of course! I thought it would be neat for everyone who reads my blog or purchases from my shop to put a face to the mystery girl who makes all these necklaces & such! So, check it out, here! Thanks Jessica! :)

Stay tuned for some new things this weekend! Cross your fingers that all of my supplies arrive in time!

woah

2011-03-28T09:47:00.004-04:00

This picture has nothing to do with beads, but these are my cats, Duke & Gibby.

Hi everyone! Sorry for the absence here on the ol' blog. Things with the shop have been insane these past few days, to say the least.

Between Thursday & early this morning, I received about 60 orders, which all have to be made & packaged. Quite an overwhelming task for me, as it is just me doing this, but no worries, I have managed to get through most of the orders.

I did run out of supplies over the weekend, which made me want to turn into the Hulk & smash through a wall, but hopefully more items will arrive today & tomorrow. The shop is not as stocked as I'd like it to be, but once I catch up on orders (please be patient if you've ordered something!), new things will start to appear. I've got some neat one of a kind/limited necklaces in the works! Thank you all again for your support! Like I said, it is so overhwelming to receive all of this support, but I am very thankful! Have a great day! :)

new!

2011-03-22T14:09:00.002-04:00

I just listed these three pretties in the shop!

tiny earrings!

2011-03-20T15:14:00.001-04:00

NEW!

spring sale!

2011-03-18T12:29:00.003-04:00

Goodbye dreary days! Spring is on its way! Hooray! To celebrate upcoming warmer weather & pretty flowers, I am having a sale!

From now until sometime next week, enter FLORAL15 at check out to receive 15% off your entire order!

new peacock ore rings!

2011-03-17T13:24:00.003-04:00

These pretties will all be listed in the shop in a few moments!

peacock ore!

2011-03-16T17:03:00.003-04:00

NEW! Peacock Ore rings tomorrow, as they have to sit overnight to dry! :)

brights & bits

2011-03-15T12:51:00.002-04:00

These will be in the shop shortly! Peacock Ore update tomorrow!

help individuals affected by earthquake/tsunami

2011-03-11T12:25:00.002-05:00

From now until Sunday night, 20% of each sale from my shop will be donated to the Red Cross to help individuals affected by earthquake/tsunami! :) Please help!

golden-vein 3.0

2011-03-10T20:07:00.004-05:00

The Golden-Vein necklace has went through three transformations, as the originals tabs I used became impossible to find, so I had to switch to different pieces.

I originally purchased them at Michael's, when I first started making jewelry, and literally bought every, single pack I could find. I even went to other locations & shopped online to find them. I had quite a stash of those brass beauties for a while, but then, the well ran dry, and I was out of luck.

In the second version, I found longer, metal tabs, which I didn't really like, but used anyway. I'm a little picky or maybe have an OCD issue when it comes to making pieces, so I knew I needed to find similar pieces to that of the first. I came across a smaller, darker version of the tabs, which kind of resemble the original style! A little different, but I think I like it...for now!

More Peacock Ore items to come & POST STYLE EARRINGS! YEAH! Stay tuned!

Oh, don't forget to enter HAPPYONEYEAR at check out to receive 15% off your purchase. I have a few sales items as well! :)

happy one year!!

2011-03-05T09:28:00.002-05:00

Today marks one year since I started selling my jewelry on Etsy! :) Thank you all for your support & encouragement!

To celebrate my one year anniversary, enter HAPPYONEYEAR at check out to receive 15% off your purchase!

bracelets

2011-03-02T19:27:00.001-05:00

NEW!

shades of blue peacock ore

2011-03-01T17:17:00.002-05:00

NEW

earring advice/suggestions

2011-03-01T11:52:00.002-05:00

I need advice! As you can see, I only have one pair of earrings in the shop.

I do not wear earrings, but long ago, I did have my ears pierced, but due to terrible infection/horrendous experience, I took them out & never wore them again, for fear the same thing would happen if I were to have them re-pierced.

Anyway, since I do not wear earrings, it's difficult for me to envision different styles or ideas for the shop. So, I'm asking those who wear earrings, what would you like to see me create? What style would you prefer? Dangle? Post? What components would you like to see? Metal? Sparkly bits? Any advice/thoughts would be much appreciated! Thank you!

update!

2011-02-28T17:35:00.007-05:00

Just finished listing all of these lovelies in the shop.

tweetin' on twitter

2011-02-25T21:26:00.003-05:00

I forgot to mention that I am now on Twitter! Find me here, or click the picture above, to read my tweets, twats, whatever the hell they are! This is new to me. I will try to post funny things in addition to informative bits and ramblings about the shop, but sometimes I don't think people will understand my humor. Might have to keep that under wraps for now...but, I do have good stories and funny thoughts. I don't have a fancy smart phone (maybe soon), so I can't super tweet or whatever one may call it, all day! Maybe one day! TWEET!

out with the old, in with the NEW!

2011-02-25T18:38:00.003-05:00

The Parallel Highway necklace was originally made of very, very RARE, teeny tiny, glass triangle beads. I acquired the beads quite some time ago, snatching up every single piece. I eventually ran out of the beads & tried to locate them everywhere! I have literally searched all over the globe for them and I cannot find anything like them. I am told that they are from the early 1940s/1950s, and that the triangular shape was rarely made, therefore, I literally had some of the rarest beads around. YIKES. So, in the end, I had to resort to other advances in technology!

What's a girl to do? My brother Cody (hi!) is a talented guy and decided to create a mold to mimic the rare triangles. After weeks of testing, he created larger triangles in a wonderful aqua color. He has hand cut the individual triangles, which are made from resin, a very, very hard plastic, which looks very much like glass. He uses dyes to give the triangles their pigment & drills each individually, so no two triangles are quite the same!

Also, I am working on post-style earrings! Stay tuned to see the progress.

bracelets, oh my!

2011-02-24T18:40:00.002-05:00

I just added these funky beauties to the shop! Check it out!

a winner

2011-02-15T18:18:00.003-05:00

RANDOM.ORG chose lucky number 6, also known as Beth! Congratulations! I'll be contacting you shortly! Thanks to everyone who entered & for your fantastic suggestions! I really appreciate all of the ideas & comments! I have many items in the works as we speak!

In other news, the Peacock Ore gods have spoken. I'll be listing the two necklaces above in addition to the one I posted about earlier. My crummy diamond bit magically restored itself & was able to get through these two pieces. Everything will be listed in a few minutes!

Also, I will be away tomorrow, Wednesday, 2/16 until Tuesday, 2/22, therefore all orders placed during this time will be shipped Wednesday, 2/23. If you order by tonight, I will be able to have your package out tomorrow morning, before I leave.

rings & things

2011-02-15T14:16:00.004-05:00

The reflection on the rainbow Peacock Ore appears to be white, but it's actually grey! I don't know why it is showing that way!

Here is a sneak peek of what I'll be posting into the shop later this evening. I had plans to list plenty of Peacock Ore necklaces, however, my diamond bit bit the dust, therefore, I was only able to drill through one piece, which will be listed tonight as well. Instead of necklaces galore, there will be rings! I'm especially excited about the vintage black glass tiles with the triangle inlays. How pretty! I'll announce the winner of the giveaway tonight as well!

blue & brass

2011-02-11T10:10:00.004-05:00

I just updated the shop with four, new necklaces in shades of blue, green, and brass.

There will be a large Peacock Ore update which will consist of new necklaces & rings. The Keep It Gold earrings will be back in stock soon, as well as two different sizes of the Circling Girl necklace. I will have another type of ring available too, at some point next week. The Parallel Highway necklace will soon be changed, as I can no longer find the triangle beads, therefore, my brother Cody created a mold for similar triangles, which is a pretty lengthy process. I'll be able to change colors and create a similar necklace in the future, which is neat! As far as your suggestions at the giveaway, I will definitely be creating bracelets & such in the coming weeks as well.

I'm also extending the giveaway until Monday! Enter here!

one, two

2011-02-07T10:15:00.003-05:00

new!

a giveaway

2011-02-02T20:02:00.001-05:00

Hi all! It's been quite some time since I had a giveaway here, so I'd like to offer one of you a necklace of your choice from my shop! Just leave a comment below, with a suggestion of what you'd like to see in the shop this year. I will pick a winner next Friday, February 11th. :)

simple

2011-02-02T10:25:00.003-05:00

I just added three, very simple necklaces to the shop! Stay tuned for a giveaway, as well! :)

anouk

2011-01-27T13:13:00.004-05:00

Just listed & sold this ginormous, statement necklace. Thanks Megan! :)

This piece was one of a kind, but I will try to re-create something similar for those who are interested!

COMING SOON - I will be taking pictures of all of my necklaces on a mannequin, to show the length & such. I've had many requests to do so, so stay tuned! :)

valentine's day coupon!

2011-01-25T15:10:00.002-05:00

A little coupon to treat yourself or perhaps someone else to a little Valentine's Day treasure! Use the code, HEART15 at checkout to receive 15% off of your entire purchase! Enjoy! :)

new new new!

2011-01-24T17:28:00.003-05:00

A few, very sparkly & pretty bits were just added to the shop. The classic Golden-Vein necklace received a face-lift, with different, faceted beads and more elongated brass tabs. I created a kind of cheesy Valentine's Day necklace, too. I think the goldstone hearts are really stunning & even if it's a little silly, it sure is pretty! Enjoy!

craft show advice? art star craft bazaar

2011-01-19T16:25:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! So, the other day, I was browsing for things to do in the city of Philadelphia, since I will be moving there in a few months. I came across the Art Star Craft Bazaar, which will be held on May 14th & 15th.

I was thinking of actually applying to sell my jewelry, but I've never done a craft show before nor do I know what to expect. I think it would be a good way for me to introduce myself to the city and new people. Does anyone have any advice on what to expect or how to prepare for such an event? Should I do it? Has anyone ever been to Art Star? Does anyone want to split a booth? Haha! Any advice or thoughts would be very much appreciated! :)

new!

2011-01-17T12:57:00.004-05:00

I just listed several new necklaces in the shop. I have approximately 6 other necklaces to finish as well. Stay tuned! :)

update (finally!)

2011-01-15T12:44:00.003-05:00

I just listed a few Peacock Ore necklaces in addition to two, Peacock Ore rings! More to come! :)

happy new year coupon code!

2010-12-31T10:44:00.003-05:00

Hi all! Things have been rather quiet around here due to the holiday season! To celebrate the new year, enter LOVELY2011 at checkout to receive 15% off of your entire order! :) Enjoy & thank you all for your support. Keep your eyes peeled for new pieces as well. Happy 2011!

holiday coupon code

2010-12-08T18:10:00.003-05:00

Hi all! To say thanks for all of your support, I'm offering another 15% off coupon at my shop!

Enter LOVELY15 at check out & receive 15% off your entire order! :)

The coupon will be available until December 15th! :)

Please contact me prior to purchasing if you need a shipping upgrade, as I only ship via USPS First Class Mail!

update II

2010-12-07T17:15:00.003-05:00

A few more necklaces & a ring were just added to the shop! :)

peacock ore galore & a few more treasures!

2010-12-06T22:45:00.004-05:00

Hi there! I just posted a bunch of Peacock Ore necklaces & a few, one-of-a-kind pieces as well.

In particular, I'd like to highlight these two necklaces, which were created by my oldest brother Mike. Mike painstakingly cut, sanded, and stained black walnut & white oak burl beads into cubes for my shop! They turned out awesome & I have many more available in various shapes & sizes as well. The beads are from our parent's property, a magical place if you ask me, and I think they are really special necklaces! :) More to come tomorrow!

things to come...

2010-12-01T17:47:00.004-05:00

Wow. What an overwhelming past few weeks. Seriously.

Mix my final semester of undergraduate school with a minimal amount of sleep, many orders, graduate school stress, and irritation due to not receiving supplies and you'll get a busy/annoyed lady.

Peacock Ore is on the way (hopefully tomorrow), which means of course, new necklaces and rings. This also means I will be need the assistance of a Minotaur's teeth (see below) to drill through the mound of Ore, as my drill bits are basically shot! It should be an interesting next few days.

I'm kind of overwhelmed in case you can't tell! However, I will get it all done...somehow! Anyway, keep your eyes peeled for mystical Peacock Ore & a few, one-of-a-kind necklaces, too. As always, I always appreciate the support & feedback! :)

tiny peacock ore rings

2010-11-27T10:52:00.004-05:00

I'm not happy with these photos, but that's what happens when the weather is horrible & there is hardly any sunlight to work with. Seven, tiny, Peacock Ore rings are now in the shop! :)

peacock ore update

2010-11-25T12:41:00.004-05:00

These three Peacock Ore necklaces were added to the shop! Peacock Ore is perfect for the holiday season, as it is vivid in color, sparkly, & the perfect size and shape! Happy Thanksgiving! :) Don't forget, I'm running a 15% off discount on all of my necklaces and other jewelry, so be sure to enter the coupon code, "LOVELY15" for the discount at check out!

a holiday sale!

2010-11-24T11:37:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! I thought it would be nice to offer my customers a Coupon Code for the holiday season! From now until Saturday, November 27th (expires at midnight on Saturday), enter the coupon code “LOVELY15” at checkout and receive 15% off of your entire order!

Starting next week, there will be a huge update with several Peacock Ore necklaces & rings. Stay tuned. Have a lovely weekend!

new rings!

2010-11-19T17:14:00.002-05:00

I just listed these sparkly delights in the shop! :)

new items!

2010-11-17T21:49:00.005-05:00

Hi everyone! :) I am overwhelmed by the support I've received thus far from the giveaway over at Anabela's blog! Thank you so much! Just a quick note to let you all know that I've listed a few new pieces to the shop. The aqua/copper triangle necklace is probably my favorite piece in the update! More peacock ore has been added as well. Be on the lookout for more peacock ore rings, too! :)

giveaway at fieldguided!

2010-11-16T16:54:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! I'm giving away the peacock ore necklace that is pictured above over at Anabela's blog, Fieldguided! I'm so excited about this giveaway! Thanks Anabela! She will pick a winner on Friday, so head on over & enter! :)

update

2010-11-10T20:25:00.002-05:00

I just added the Peacock Ore rings to the shop as well as three, new necklaces. I am NOT happy with the pictures of the necklaces, but they will suffice for now.... ENJOY! :)

Oh, also! Stay tuned for a fun & festive announcement as well!

OOAK peacock ore rings & such

2010-11-10T14:41:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone! At some point tonight, after I finish my work, I will be posting these new, one-of-a-kind rings, as well as a few other, new necklaces! So, check my shop later tonight if you'd like! Enjoy! :)

new look & new things!

2010-11-05T12:36:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone! I did a little updating to my blog layout last night, as it was a necessary thing to do!

Thank you to everyone for all of your support over the past week. I'm overwhelmed by the response to my new pieces. I will be creating a few, new things over the weekend & I also have a few Peacock Ore rings and necklaces to list as well. Did I mention how much I love Peacock Ore?!

Also, my 100th customer/sale will receive a special treat in their order! I can't believe how many sales I've had! I'm so appreciative & overwhelmed! Thank you! :) <3

much, much better

2010-10-26T21:27:00.007-04:00

Ahhhhhh. Much better photos of the new pieces. I sure feel better about these. There are also photos of me wearing each piece in every, new listing. What do you think? Credit to my beau, Matthew, for putting up with my zombie-self. I took a few as well! :)

new!

2010-10-23T15:51:00.005-04:00

Hi everyone! Here are some of the new pieces! I have several, one-of-a-kind pieces & limited edition pieces as well! Check out the shop if you'd like to see more creations! More to come!

Also, all SALE items are now $8, $9, & $10. I need to make room for all of my new creations, so if you're interested, check out the SALE! :)

NOTE: I am not happy with these images of the necklaces, as I felt rushed while I was taking them. Therefore, I will be re-shooting these pieces soon & will actually have photos of ME WEARING THEM! HOORAY! (FINALLY!)

new items tomorrow (saturday)

2010-10-22T21:26:00.003-04:00

Hello! This week has been incredibly hectic & horrible! My bank account, credit card, & PayPal account were hacked into, huge, unauthorized transactions were made in my name, and I am awaiting the arrival of my new bank & credit cards. I don't know how it happened, but all I can say is always change your passwords & don't give out any financial info! What a mess! Thankfully, I straightened everything out & I am hoping this NEVER happens again. Scary!!!

Anyway, new items will be posted tomorrow!!! All new necklaces in all shapes & sizes. There will be so many new items to come in the next few weeks (rings & such) as well. I can't wait to share! I hope everyone will enjoy all the new creations! :)

hi!

2010-10-13T17:00:00.004-04:00

photo courtesy of Megan

Hi everyone! I hope each of you are enjoying this fine Autumn weather here in the states and for my friends all over, I hope this post finds you well.

A large shop update was intended to happen this week, however, unfortunate issues with my tools and supplies will have to push the update back a bit. I had all these awesome ideas in my head and when I went to execute them, tools gave out and beads and various other trinkets broke. Frustrating!! So, while certain things are finished, others are not. Moving on to other ideas (while I wait for supplies to arrive)!

I will post a few sneak peeks by the end of the weekend (I hope). I can say that the update will include the following (so far, anyway): amber colored glass, green wood, green GLASS triangles, all kinds of brass bits in different shapes, indigo glass, sequins, peacock ore (or course! an update wouldn't be complete without it), amethyst, and a pretty freakin' awesome, if I do say so myself, OOAK, necklace. I don't want to part with it, but I must, because the world needs to see it.

Whew! Well, anyway, check back here for an update & such soon! :)

cleaning out my closet!

2010-10-04T17:27:00.003-04:00

Hi all. What a dreary, yet beautiful October day. Oh, how I adore this weather. I'm in the middle of midterms & just had a mini melt down because my computer froze in the middle of my TIMED, online midterm. I'm trying to avoid horrible thoughts of throwing this hunk of junk out the window. Happy, Autumn thoughts.

Anyway, I'm cleaning out my closet & I've listed a few things on Ebay! Bags & clothes, oh my! Check it out if you're interested. A good bit of Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, etc. has been listed!

workspace

2010-10-04T10:07:00.004-04:00

Over the weekend, my beau (with the help of his little kitten) took a few photos of my workspace. I thought it would be neat to share with everyone what my space looks like! :) Enjoy. New beads & such are arriving today. I have to warn you, I'm really excited. I can't wait to share my new ideas!!!!!

30% OFF SALE!!!!!!

2010-09-28T17:53:00.004-04:00

Hi everyone! Just a quick post to let everyone know that select necklaces in my shop are now 30% OFF. Everything in this particular section is under $15!

I need to make room for new creations (woohoo!) and I figured that it would be a FANTASTIC time for a sale! Need a Christmas gift for someone? Want to treat yourself to a pretty necklace? Now is the time!

So, check out this section if you're interested. If something happens to sell that you really had your heart set on, send me a message & I'll see what I can do! :)

A post of my studio (a.k.a the desk in the corner of my bedroom) will be posted soon. I can't wait to share with you all of the new ideas I have! Have a great day!!!!

fluffy cats, sparkles, & autumn

2010-09-22T22:21:00.006-04:00

Oh dear. Thank you ALL for your feedback & kind words. Each of your comments were perfect in every, single way. Upon reading your comments, my heart swelled to the size of a large, fluffy, Persian cat. It feels so wonderful to have the support of not only my family & friends, but all of you as well. I know it is kind of odd to some individuals that I have never physically met any of you, however, a little spot in my heart has already felt like I have. So, thank you!

I have to take a look around and revisit the things that made me start creating in the first place. I have new ideas! I do, I do, I do! However, as always with new creations, I'm reticent to show them for my first fear is that they will be copied. Well, not anymore!! I have to get over that! I have all kinds of interesting things in the works and as usual, sometimes my designs on paper do not translate well into actual pieces. Anyway, thank you again, all of you, for your words.

P.S. I wanted to share these two, very wonderful posts by two, very delightful ladies!

Évita wrote a post about my work on my birthday (I was already feeling a little emotional that day) which nearly sent me over the edge...but in a good way! :)

Katie wrote a very sweet post about being the winner of a necklace! :) Isn't she adorable?!!

a creative slump

2010-09-18T09:32:00.005-04:00

The weather has been so gorgeous lately. Hints of Fall, which officially starts at the end of next week, have been swirling around in the air; the strong scent of woodsmoke & the vivid colors of the leaves changing are intoxicating. I love it!

Lately, I have been feeling as if I have hit a creative slump. I know this is normal for most sellers, but I've been finding on Etsy that a lot of my jewelry is being mimicked. I try to think of ideas and just can't seem to execute them because I wonder why people feel the need to copy my work.

It's disappointing to see similar items on Etsy after I've worked hard to create fresh ideas. I'm relatively new to this whole jewelry making thing, but when I see certain things that look eerily similar to my work, I want to stop making pieces.

I haven't added a new photograph to my shop in over two years, TWO YEARS! That's crazy & I'm determined to change that as well.

As for the jewelry, I am wondering if I will continue to leave the shop opened because of these said similarities on Etsy. I'm not sure what to do! If you run a shop, how do you get over a creative slump or similar issues? Maybe I need some input from my readers! What would YOU like to see in my shop? Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! :)

rings rings rings

2010-09-12T20:39:00.003-04:00

Two peacock ore rings are NEW & have been listed in the shop. One is petite while the other one is super chunky! Love them! :) Enjoy.

madebyhank bags for sale!

2010-09-10T15:56:00.003-04:00

So, I have wayyyyyyyyy too many handbags and little zippy purses. I have to make room for all the new bags in my life and while I hate to part with any of my madebyhank creations, I must do so. I have listed them on Ebay in addition to some textbooks and a vintage purse as well. I will silently weep in the corner as they are sold, but I have to part with them. Sigh.

Check them out if you're interested. Of course, as always, everything will be wrapped with love! :) My shipping estimates may be a little high, but if I over-estimate, I will refund you the difference via PayPal. Thanks everyone!

P.S. Thank you for all of the birthday wishes! :) New rings are on the way! HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

it is my birthday.

2010-09-08T15:41:00.004-04:00

Today my twin sister & I are 23. 23! I can't believe it! Time has really flown and I am on my way to my mid twenties, almost thirty. Thus far, this year has been challenging & rewarding for me. I started creating jewelry, applied & got accepted into grad school in Philadelphia for next fall, and I'll be moving to the City of Brotherly Love around April. I am terrified. However, in a good way. If that makes sense. I can't wait for new places, new people, and changes! It will be great, I just know it.

To start the birthday festivities, my bearded beau took me out to dinner and we went to the movies to see Going the Distance (with Drew Barrymore & Justin Long). The film was hysterical and true to life without being cheesy. I loved it. Christina Applegate & Charlie Day made me want to pee my pants with laughter. Maybe that's a little graphic for my readers, but it was that hysterical. After the movie, he presented me with some very beautiful & nostalgic gifts, including a delightfully vintage & musty copy of my favorite childhood book, The Velveteen Rabbit. I was spoiled!

Anyway, upon reflection of past birthdays, I would have to say this is the best thus far. It has been a fantastic day full of love & kindness from family and friends. I am so grateful for everyone I have met thus far, through the blog world or otherwise. Thank you for your continuous support of my work & reading this dinky blog. :)

a small update

2010-09-01T21:51:00.004-04:00

A small update! The pictures of well, every item, have been updated! Hooray! It's been a rough, tiring, and dare I say, incredibly sweaty week. YUCK. I CAN'T WAIT UNTIL AUTUMN! ENJOY! :)

Winners!

2010-08-25T11:31:00.004-04:00

I'm so sorry for the delay in posting about the winners! My internet has been down for a few days, but now, everything is up and running! My apologies.

The giveaway gods have chosen two winners! Hooray!

And the winners are...............

Katie, who is the winner of the Kidnapper Bell necklace (she has a lovely vintage shop as well).......AND Jennifer, who is the winner of the Golden-Vein necklace (she also creates BEAUTIFUL pieces of jewelry!)

As an extra thank you, I have picked an additional winner for a smaller prize, the Wish ring from my Etsy shop...........Congratulations to Audrey (she runs a darling vintage shop in addition to her fantastic blog)!

I will be contacting all of you shortly! Thanks again to everyone who entered & I'll be sure to post soon about new items and of course, more giveaways! :)

giveaway extension

2010-08-13T09:28:00.002-04:00

I will be away until the 20th, therefore I will be extending the giveaway until August 23rd! Feel free to enter here for a chance to win! Thank you to everyone who has entered so far; I appreciate all of your kind posts & comments! :) New necklace (and ring) ideas are being formulated in my mind as we speak. Can't wait to share! Have a lovely weekend!

a giveaway

2010-08-05T19:36:00.003-04:00

I wanted to do a giveaway for quite some time to say thank you for all of the support I've received over the past few months! So, here we are! There will be TWO winners for this giveaway! I will be giving away one of my new necklaces, The Kidnapper Bell & an old favorite, Golden-Vein!

There are three possible chances to win a necklace, so be sure to read below! For each individual entry, you will receive an additional chance to win a necklace. If you may, please leave individual comments for each, different entry. Please indicate in your entry which necklace you would prefer & an e-mail address where I may contact you! :)

*A LOVELY, LITTLE BLOG FOLLOWER*

If you're a follower of A Lovely, Little blog, please leave a comment!

*FACEBOOK FAN*

If you're a Facebook Fan of A Lovely, Little Shop, please leave a comment!

*SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT A LOVELY, LITTLE SHOP*

If you'd like, you may write a simple blog entry to spread the word about A Lovely, Little Shop's giveaway! A post will count as an additional entry! Be sure to comment with a link so I may check!

THE GIVEAWAY WILL END ON AUGUST 14th. Winners will be announced on August 15th! :)

Good luck & thank you so much for your support!

NEW new NEW!

2010-08-03T19:29:00.004-04:00

More necklaces & RINGS are in the shop! Woohoo! I will be posting about a giveaway tomorrow, so be sure to check back! I'm quite proud of my recent mishmash of a collection (if you want to call it that) & I hope everyone enjoys it as well. As always, comments & thoughts are welcomed! :)

update!

2010-07-26T20:15:00.006-04:00

Hi there! I just listed several, new necklaces into my shop! I will adding more necklaces & other items as the week unfolds. As you can see, there are several different mixtures of peacock ore, metal, wood, & so forth.

I will be adding several more peacock ore necklaces as well as countless necklaces which are composed of incredibly old French beads in various shades of green & gold. I added one necklace with the French beads so far, but there will be several, different types with various different beads (SEE ABOVE) added in the next few days.

Oh! Check back soon for a giveaway & new additions, such as RINGS! Exciting! :) Enjoy.

nice things, creations, & a giveaway

2010-07-21T12:20:00.003-04:00

Hi all! After a relaxing vacation for quite some time, I'm back at work creating new necklaces, bracelets, & rings for the shop. I will try to post a sneak peek by the beginning of next week, along with a giveaway as well. In the meantime, here are two posts about my shop by two very lovely individuals. Click the images to see the posts!

Rachel of Milk + Honey has been a repeat customer at my shop & I'd like to say that we've become blog friends! I read her blog every, single day & enjoy her posts immensely because I like to think we have similar tastes & interests. Be sure to check out her blog!

This post is from the incredibly talented Évita, of Et Al., Etc.. I purchased a few garments from her shop & I am blown away by her overall execution and style of each piece. She is so kind, talented, and creative; be sure to check out her work...you won't be disappointed.

Enjoy!

away!

2010-07-07T18:43:00.002-04:00

Ah, yes it's that time of the year when I mentally check out and relax! Vacation! Visits with family & friends in Philly, stopping by a graduate school in Philly, lounging on the beach, sipping sweet drinks, and eating a lot of tasty treats are all on my list of things to do!

I will be creating so many new things when I return! I can't wait to share!

Stay cool everyone! :)

necklace wearin' ladies & kind posts

2010-06-30T23:32:00.004-04:00

Hi all! I just wanted to share these two posts from two, very sweet ladies, Audrey & Kate. Both are shown wearing my Gold Star Mothers (which will be back in stock soon) necklace! Thank you both for writing such kind words! Hooray! :) Thank you to everyone who has purchased necklaces recently! I'm very appreciative of everyone's support! Stay tuned for new creations, as I am busy ordering supplies! I can't wait to share my new creations!

Also, check out this little tidbit by Mustard & Sage! Thank you for featuring my work, Meghan! :)

update!

2010-06-17T17:58:00.002-04:00

Hi all! Just a quick post to let you know that I added two, new creations to the shop! Please don't forget to enter the giveaway over at Hello Lindello! :) Enjoy!