Launch Party

"Loveli Marie," a clothing line by Connecticut locals Jessica Prouloux and Kali Schenkman debuts today at Brazen Betties, 95 Main Street, Torrington CT. "Loveli Marie" represents the journey to achieve your personal best; through creativity, determination and optimism.

Expect Music, Models, Food, Drink and Fashion! You'll also have a chance to meet other 'Brazen Betties' designers.

Saturday, June 6th

2-6pm

Bonhomie Charms!

At last I can share with you the exclusive item I'll be offering at Brazen Betties.....(drum roll...........like you haven't already figured it out by the title.........)

....custom charm necklaces!!! Not such a novel idea, I know, but I really enjoy making these! It started out as just a custom request by a friend. It was the handstamped pieces that first drew me to crafting jewelry and it was so much fun finding stamps and creating something so personal! The charms are crafted of metal clay which allows me so many more options in terms of fonts and symbols - I can use rubber stamps! These are the basic charms available and they can be stamped on one side or both (it took me a bit to figure out the best way to stamp both sides of clay while it was still 'wet'!!). Of course, as with anything, it can be completely customized - larger charms, smaller charms, charms of different shapes....the possibilities are endless! There are five different fonts available at present, several different symbol stamps and a handful of mini charm shapes that can be included. And of course there are birthstones in the form of swarovski crystals! Each charm can be purchase individually so you can do an 'add-a-charm' kinda thing. Would you rather a bracelet? That can be arranged!!

So if you're in the area, stop by Brazen Betties and have a gander at one of my necklaces in person! Not local? Call Julia at the shop: 860.671.0986. She'd be happy to take your order and have it shipped to you!

Poor Economy + Bloggers = Paid Blogging??

I don't know about you guys but I'm noticing an interesting trend..........the worse the economy gets, the advertising requests I'm getting for my blog. I'm not talking about requests from other bloggers. I've been contacted by some major brands and I'm guessing that I'm not the only one!

I was a bit confused at first. I'm proud of the number of followers I have - after all, why would I think anyone wants to hear what I have to say?!?!!? But my numbers are pretty sad compared to some blogs. So why would a national brand contact me? Well, I'd imagine advertising budgets have been cut everywhere so what's better than free or next-to-nothing advertising? Free coupons, a few cents here, a few cents there.....especially if you can almost guarantee that it's going to hit your target market? So their searching out the bloggers. Smart!

I've decided to maintain my focus on supporting handmade and philanthropy regarding any advertising requests I receive, just like I try to do with my Entrecard & Project Wonderful ads. Though I think paid blogging can be a wonderful enterprise (if done correctly), my blog is about promoting my jewelry and the handcrafted work of others. While I'm at it, if I can bring attention to those in need, all the better. And with that being said, I was contacted by The Fresh Air Fund, a very worthy organization. I was lucky enough to grow up in a rural/suburban setting and attend summer camp as a kid. Other's should have the same opportunity so you'll see a permant spot for them in my sidebar. Note - if it's not already obvious, I'm NOT being paid to promote the Fresh Air Fund ;-)

In jewelry making news, I still haven't had a chance to make any of the new pieces I've in mind but I've been filling orders and working on a custom piece. I've spoken with the shop owner of "Brazen Betties" (website coming soon - as soon as it's up, I'll give ya' a link!) about a new offering for the shop. It's nothing spectacularly earth-shattering but I'm excited about it and I think it will fill a 'need' (not that anyone ever needs jewelry!) I'll keep you posted!!