A little bit of pretty

And.... I'm back!

2010-01-16T17:30:00.000-06:00

Holy moley! I haved updated this blog in ages!!! I am so sorry - my pre-Christmas was really busy with custom orders, and then over New Years I was finishing my business plan, etc, etc. Of course I am also working full time as well..... doesn't leave much time for posting! However I am going to stop grousing about how little time I have and just get down to business. I promise to organize myself better and post as often as possible!

I wanted to post a few more pictures of custom orders I completed before Christmas - here they are!

Enjoy! Will post again tomorrow!

What I've been up to lately....

2009-11-29T22:24:00.000-06:00

You may have noticed that my posting hasn't been as regular in the last couple weeks :( I'm sorry about that! I have gone back to work full time again and now that it is Christmas, things are super crazy here. I think things will slow down a bit in a couple weeks, and I will get back into it I promise!

Lately, I have been working a ton of custom projects that I accepted for the Christmas season and I wanted to share them with you!!! So I will post pictures as I finish them - this is one that I just finished today. It is an Amazonite necklace with a "New" Jade focal off to the right side. It is linked together with sterling silver wire and jump rings and finished with a sterling silver multi strand clasp at the back. The longest strand is about 18 inches. Have to pat myself on the back for this one :)

I love how this turned out - don't you? Until next time, Kim XO.

I'm a winner!!!!

2009-11-29T12:44:00.000-06:00

I won!!! :) so cool. Kerry at trystbykerry has been having a super cool

giveaway all weekend - a Scavenger Hunt Giveaway with the prize

being a pretty pair of Azalea earrings.

The Giveaway is only open for one more day - hurry and enter

for your chance to win these!!!

Black Friday/Cyber Monday!!!!

2009-11-26T19:04:00.000-06:00

Hey all! just a short post to let you know about the Black Friday/Cyber Monday

deals in my shop! Starting tonight (Nov 26th) until Monday, Nov 30th

I am offering 25% off all One-Of-A-Kind pieces!!!!

Malachite Multistrand Bracelet was $45 now $33.75

Moonstone and Prehnite Necklace was $42 now $31.50

Aquamarine Opera Length Necklace was $45 now $33.75

And many more in my shop :) Always FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING too!

Happy Shopping! Until next time, Kim XO

the rikrak studio MEGA handmade giveaway!!!

2009-11-24T18:40:00.000-06:00

She's at it again!!!!! Another GREAT BIG giveaway from Kristal at rikrak blog

Its a huge prize pack worth $450 from 30 different handmade shops,

including moi :) Hurry over there now and enter!!!

Giveaway ends Dec 3rd :) Good Luck!

New Canadian Shops on Etsy

2009-11-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Here it is - your weekly installment of New Canadian Shops on Etsy! I'm Kim from A little bit of pretty and this week I've picked SpiderellaStudio. So here we go :)

When I first entered SpiderellaStudio, I was immediately blown away by how beautiful and professional it looks! All of the colours are truly eye-catching and you know how I love colour :) I even love how the items are merchandised - plain white backgrounds really are the best choice when you're pieces are so statement making. Great photography too, very easy to see every detail. Really I could go on all day long!

SpiderellaStudio incorporates uncirculated vintage enamel flower beads from the 50’s, 60’s, & 70's remixed and revamped with newer components into new designs. The shop has a great mix of funky flowers in distinctive shapes and colours, which is what gives it such an eye-catching look! There is also a great selection of rings, bracelets, necklaces, and hair pieces to choose from. Any of the pieces in this shop would make great Christmas gifts!

Personally I love the vintage look of the shop, and have always been intrigued by enameled jewellery. I really like that the shop feels so modern and fashion forward despite its vintage origins. All of these pieces are distinctive and colourful without being fussy, which appeals to many shoppers including myself :) I expect that we will be seeing much more of SpiderellaStudio in the very near future! Happy shopping :) Until next time, Kim XO

Some news..... and more chances to WIN! :)

2009-11-18T18:04:00.000-06:00

If you don't know already, the rikrak studio blog is hosting another GIVEAWAY highlighting her sponsors and I am one again this month! The prize is the same as last month's giveaway - a $25 gift certificate toward a purchase in any of her current sponsors shops :) She has some great sponsors so you should definitely cruise on over to her blog and check out this amazing giveaway!

In other really awesome exciting news..... I have had my first REVIEW published!!!! I am super happy and flattered to have been given this amazing opportunity on Tigerlily's Book- and I have also donated something to the blog for a GIVEAWAY :) It is a great write-up - I am so excited about it! So anyways I think you should cruise on over there too and check it out and of course enter to win a fabulous pair of one-of-a-kind wire wrapped garnet and crystal gold filled hoops! Here is a picture of them :

GIVEAWAY ENDS Dec 1!!!

Have fun!!!! Until next time, Kim XO.

What I've been up to lately....

2009-11-16T18:35:00.000-06:00

So, wow! I have been sooo busy lately. I have a million projects at various stages of unfinished-ness :) haha! I have been making new pieces for a Holiday Limited Edition section of my shop because I scored a coveted spot in the Etsy Stalker Shadowboxes starting Dec 10!!!!! I'm super excited - but I want to be able to showcases new holiday oriented jewellery so I have been spending most of my free time planning out my Shadowbox :)

Also I don't know how many of you know this but I am a member of the LabRats Team on Etsy and we are having a Holiday Challenge with the theme of Glistening Snow and Mistletoe. I have been working on something special to enter in this challenge and I recently just finished it, so I wanted to share some photos of it below - and I would love to know what you think of it! It will also be listed with my Holiday Limited Edition items so you can purchase it if you really love it!

I want to know what you think!!!! Please let me know in the comment section below.

There will be voting on our team blog for this challenge.... I'll let you know when that is :)

P.S Sorry no Wishlist Tuesday tomorrow..... too busy to window shop this week!

New Canadian Shops on Etsy

2009-11-14T09:15:00.004-06:00

Here I am again - Kim from A little bit of pretty - with your weekly installment of New Canadian Shops on Etsy. This week I am featuring Maple Creek Soapworks . So let's begin shall we???

Maple Creek Soapworks is a couple from Edmonton, Alberta who began making soaps together following years of being itchy and uncomfortable after showering due to the use of commercial soaps. After a particularly uncomfortable episode, they had the opportunity to try some handmade soap and were amazed at the difference, and decided to try to make their own. So after some research, there was a working recipe, and the rest is history :)

Maple Creek Soapworks opened shop on Etsy in January 2009, and already have a wide range of products. There are bath soaks, lotions, lip balms, solid perfumes, and a Premium Line of products they call GlacierSpa that includes (for now I'm sure) an Anti-Aging Moisturizer, a Botanical Toner, and a Creamy Green Tea Cleanser. They also have products for tattoo care and make your own lip balm kits.

Their soaps are made, cut and wrapped by hand from top quality natural ingredients such as olive oil, coconut oil, shea butter and hempseed oil. All of their cold process bars contain cocoa butter and natural glycerine for extra moisturizing and they use essential oils or top quality fragrance oils for scenting. Ultramarines and iron oxides are used for coloring. All good stuff! :)

I am particularly intrigued by the bath soaks - especially the muscle soak. I am plagued by a stiff back and headaches dues to hours and hours spent beading and making jewellery, and am wondering if this might remedy or alleviate the tension???? Maybe I'll have to buy some to find out! There are also bath soaks for cough and cold symptoms and a couple lavender blends that would do nicely right before bedtime!

So check out this new up and coming soaperie - they are also having a Christmas sale right now of 15% off all items in the shop! Happy shopping :) Until next time, Kim XO.

TGIF!!! Nov 13, 2009

2009-11-13T12:00:00.002-06:00

Here is this weeks' edition of TGIF- get ready to shop, shop, shop! This week I decided to put together some items that would be great to buy "for her". These are also some of my favourite Etsy shops as well :) So without further ado - get ready to shop!

My first pick are these 3 dot earrings (love colours) by 3dots . I love the shape of these, and the colour of the beads that are within the large wooden circles. I have been coveting several items from this shop for ages! I love the look of wooden jewellery and all of the pieces in the shop are stained this gorgeous deep colour. These would make a great gift for anyone who loves jewellery!

Speaking of loving jewellery, what is better than a one-of-a-kind piece? The BLUE FROST-One of a Kind Lucite Collage Art Bangle with Swarovski Crystals by CindyG's Quirks of Art is truly a unique find. This is a stunning mixed media decoupaged bangle finished on a high quality frosted lucite/acrylic resin bracelet. Each and every bracelet in this shop is a work of art and love - a great gift idea for someone special!

Purple Flower Needle Book and Pincushion Set by JennMaruskaDesign - cute little wool and felt needlebook and pincushion perfect for holding sewing accessories. Great gift idea for that crafty sewing person in your life :)

Beach Bride Hair Comb Starfish SC Ocean Star by OhFaro - this comb is so beautiful! It is three vintage brooches that had been repurposed into a hair comb :) I love the way this one looks with the cute tiny faux turquoise and pearl beads - the piece is dressy but still beachy looking. Love it!

The twilight collection - Esme . bobby pins by pandacub - Great trio of bobby pins inspired by the character Esme from the wildy popular Twilight movie of course! I love the colours, and the combination of flower and vintage cameo. Would make a great stocking stuffer!

Blue and Purple Waffle Hoodie / size Large by Replicca - have someone on your list that hates shopping in chain stores but loves handmade clothing? Replicca has a great assortment of knit hoodies, tshirts, dresses, and turtlenecks and most of the pieces in the shop feature the same 3 colour blocking technique shown here. Very cool!

I love this great recycled, quilted vintage fabric clutch...sustainable purse by rikrak. Its the cutest little quilted clutch ever! Its a great shape and size (10x5 inches), and made of fresh repurposed vintage fabrics! Makes a great small, run around town clutch because it can fit all your essentials but you aren't wieghed down by a cumbersome purse! This one is on my wishlist :)

Snowflakes sterling silver earrings by TDNCreations - I am totally on a snowflake kick right now, so I was really excited when I found these snowflake earrings and I HAD to include them in this Christmas shopping post! Aren't they great? These little guys are handcut out of a textured sheet of silver and tumbled so they have a nice shine :) Love them!

Well those are my picks - I hope that I have helped you out a little bit with your Christmas shopping. I'll be back next time with some more great gift ideas! Until next time, Kim XO.

2 minutes of silence.....

2009-11-11T09:12:00.000-06:00

Today is Remembrance Day - so I am taking the day off of regular blog posting. I will return tomorrow with a new shop feature, but for today I am going to observe the 2 minutes of silence and remember my friend Corporal Bryce Keller. I can't believe its already been 3 years. We miss you Bryce :(

Lest we Forget

Wishlist Tuesday Nov 10/2009

2009-11-10T06:56:00.000-06:00

Another Tuesday - new Wishlist Tuesday post! This week I have some more great home decor picks since I am constantly searching Etsy for decoration stuff :) So I have put together another collage of cute, eclectic, and unique decor items. Enjoy!

1) Darling Petite Silver Mirror by SparrowsNest1

2) elephant bookends by monkeyandsquirrel

3) Custom Map Coasters by CarolinaCottage

4) Original Watercolour Piece - Summer in France by moonthroughfog

5) Two Organic Shaped Tealight Holders by ParadiseHillDesigns

6) Citrine Leaves - Buckwheat and Lavender Pillow by Mireio

7) Two Hand Engraved Wine Glasses "Reaching Branches" by daydreemdesigns

8) Pinch Bud Vase in Green by tannerglass

Happy shopping :) Until next time, Kim XO.

I LOVE my blog followers!

2009-11-06T18:59:00.000-06:00

I told you it was coming - a special announcement :)

Because I LOVE my blog followers SO much I want to extend a special

20% off the One-Of-A-Kinds section in my shop

To recieve this, send me an email or convo through Etsy telling me you are

a blog follower and what item you are interested in. I will set it up as a reserved

listing and change the price to reflect the 20% off. And shipping is FREE!!!

This special blog followers promotion is open from tonight (Nov 6) to Friday,

November 13. Thats a whole week to get a jumpstart on your Christmas shopping

and buy some beautiful jewellery for yourself or someone you love :)

Enjoy! Kim XO.

TGIF!!!! Nov 6,2009

2009-11-06T07:24:00.000-06:00

This weeks installment of TGIF - get ready to shop, shop, shop is all about the November-babies :) I have come up with a bunch of ideas in case you are stumped and don't know what to buy.... this time of year can get that way. Everyone is in Christmas mode, and it seems right from the start of November, those of us who have birthdays in November sort of get lost in the holiday spirit. I should know - I am a November-baby myself! So I have put together a list with a range of ideas, from birthstones to zodiacs. Have Fun!

This ring has been on my wishlist for weeks! They are so cute, and I love the vintage feel of them. There is one for every sign of the zodiac with the corresponding "birthstone" colour - Star Sign rings by pandacub .

My next pick is this Gold Shine - Citrine Quartz geode dipped in 22K gold by mycellardoor . I am in love with this necklace! there is nothing I like more than seeing lovely gems in their natural state. I guess that's the geologist in me :) This citrine geode pendant is dipped in gold and hung from a 14K gold chain. What a lovely gift this would make!

What about some great artwork with a zodiac theme??? I am a huge fantasy and sci fi geek so I am loving the way the artist has portrayed the scorpion and saggitarius in these prints - I would definitely love to hang one of these on my wall. Zodiac Collection - 5x7 Matted Print by mysticmoonmedia - these prints come in your choice of zodiac sign and all are free to ship!

Romantic Rose Golden Citrine Blossom Flower Bobby Pin by ayawedding . How about a beautiful, handmade, organza flower pin to adorn your flowing locks? These flower bobby pins are just so pretty, and you could have one in any colour you want! And the best part is, the flower never wilts :)

How about a set of handy Cute Animal Zodiac Multi Note Cards Set by Cuore. These note cards are blank, A2 size, come in a choice of 3 paper colour choices, and is a set of 12 (one for every zodiac sign or your choice of one sign on all 12 cards). These are really handy to have around - how cute wold it be to send notes to all your friends with your "signature" zodiac sign on them???

Just looking for a little something to give as a gift? How about a Custom Hello Kitty bell phone charm - zodiac crystal inlay by sachicrafts or The Snake key ring by JooSweetie . The key rings come in your choice chinese zodiac sign (in my case - Yes not only am I a Scorpio but I was also born Year of the Snake ;) ) and the bell charms have a choice of strap colour and crystal colour.

I have lately become very intrigued by felting. In fact there was a lady with a booth at the quilt show I attended last week who did nothing but felt. I was mesmerized by the array of items on her table! Here I found this wonderful Cobweb felt scarf - Autumn leaves OOAK by vilte that is in a beautiful citrine shade! And it is a one-of-a-kind!

Of course my last pick has to be a bag :) I love bags, and I stumbled upon this wonderful shop while looking for ideas for this post. I would seriously buy everything in this shop if I could! This Citrine Bow Handbag by mojospastyle is exactly my style - I love the colour, the bow, the shape, the length of the strap (not too long not too short). I hope I get this for my birthday!!! :)

Well thats it - Happy Shopping :) Until next time, Kim XO.

New Canadian Shops on Etsy .... Photo Atelier

2009-11-04T07:01:00.000-06:00

***This post previously ran on CanArtisan - I have decided to share my weekly feature here as well, I hope you enjoy learning about the many talented Canadian artisans on Etsy.***

Hi everybody I'm back again! I'm Kim from A little bit of pretty with this weeks' New Canadian Shops on Etsy feature. This week I am featuring Photo Atelier because I simply adore Sarah's style of photography!

As I have previously mentioned I love photographs of landscapes, and flowers, a quaint little village shots. Sarah's shop Photo Atelier has all these with a few vintage and inspirational shots thrown in. I love all the extreme closeup floral shots and the nature shots - these are the kinds of photos that I like to take myself, but of course they never turn out as well as Sarah's do :) I think the reason I keep featuring artists and photographers is that I really really wish that I could do what they do, half as well as they do it! I am so jealous!

Also in another life (well really about 8 years ago) I fancied becoming an interior designer. I took the some classes through continuing education, attempted a perspective drawing class, applied to the degree program at Mount Royal - I never got in :( Guess what? Sarah's an interior decorator! I don't regret my eventual degree choice though.... actually it makes me happy to see that I am not the only one out there who changes her mind :) And it makes me feel like I belong among so many great and talented Etsians! I love the fact that even though Sarah was in the creative field to begin with, she still felt held back, and now has dedicated her time (full time) to making things that make her smile. They make me smile too :)

Photo Atelier is stocked with a wide variety of 8x8 and 5x5 fine art prints and large, medium, or small photo blocks. The photo blocks are exactly that - blocks of knotty pine, each is stained and sealed, with a photo applied to the front, and a small hole drilled in the back for hanging on the wall or you can set them on your table or shelf. I think that these are a very cool and unique way to display photos in your home - I can't wait to buy one myself! Everything in the shop is made to order and very reasonably priced. I would really recommend that you take a look at this shop - and if you like what you see there, Sarah also has a second shop that houses an array of eco felt cushions, textile art and memo boards - you can check it out here : http://sarahsmilecreations.etsy.com/

Enjoy! Until next time, Kim XO.

Wishlist Tuesday - Nov 3, 2009

2009-11-03T06:47:00.000-06:00

Wow, October is over already! Can't believe it :) Well now that Halloween has come and gone, I am looking forward to Christmas! My favourite part of Christmas is the bundling up in layers, sitting around drinking hot chocolate, being with family, playing in the snow, and eating way too much turkey!!! So as I start gearing up for the season, I start thinking about buying gifts and what I want to wrap them in. My favourite colour scheme is white and silver, and I love anything with snowflakes! So here is my new Wishlist Tuesday post with a snowflake theme. Enjoy!

1) Glistening Snow Greeting Card Set by FreshLemonBlossoms

2) Tiny Pinwheel Snowflake Etched Silver Pendant by ANORIGINALJEWELRY

3) Black Snowflakes on White Stocking by bebesniklefritz

4) Teeny Tiny Cards 2x2 Set of 6 Snowflakes by ThePaperAddict

5) watercolour ornament by cynthiacallan

6) Sparkling Snowflakes 8 ounce Handmade Soy Candle by blackmountaincandle

7) Vintage Style Winter Snowflake Stickers by seasonaldelights

8) Rhinestone Snowflake Faux Diamond Ring by MoonFaces

Happy Shopping :) Until Next time Kim XO

And the Winner is......

2009-11-02T17:24:00.000-06:00

Well my first GIVEAWAY has come to a close and its time to pick a winner!

From a total of 70 entries Random.org's random number generator

draws number 24!!! The winner is .... pippirose!

Congratulations pippirose - you win your choice from the One-Of-A-Kinds section of

my shop! Can't wait to see what you'll pick :)

BIG thank you to everyone who entered and made my first

giveaway such a huge success!

Watch for the announcement coming next week! Kim XO.

What's New? IndieNorth Gift Guide!

2009-11-01T15:37:00.000-06:00

Whats new everybody???? I have been super busy this week - on Tuesday I went back to work and struggled all week to get my blog posts done! You may have noticed that Fridays TGIF post was never posted :( Sorry about that! I had every intention of getting that up, but when I got home from work that night I discovered that our sick kitty couldn't wait for his vet appointment so we took him to emergency that night! Don't worry, he's a-OK :) Just an eye cold is all. We were there late too, so that is why the post never aired - but don't worry it will be posted this week instead Yay!

Also lately I have been working on some special new pieces for the IndieNorth Gift Guide which airs today! You may have noticed that they have their own page in my shop too :) If you hadn't, I am posting the photos below. I have also been working on a top-secret item for a special giveaway..... I can't tell you who is doing the giveaway yet, but as soon as it is announced I sure will!

Multi Strand Quartz and Freshwater Pearl Necklace

Grossular Garnet Wire Wrapped Gold Earrings

Gold and Amazonite Bracelet

That's all for now - tomorrow I announce the winner of my first GIVEAWAY!!!! Good luck everyone :) Until next time, Kim XO.

CanArtisan post day :)

2009-10-28T21:45:00.000-06:00

I'm a little late in getting this post out today, but better late than never :) Today is my guest blog post on CanArtisan and this weeks' feature is TheWoodGarden ! Those of you who have kids should be really interested in this feature - at TheWoodGarden you will find a line of natural wooden handcrafted toys. They only handcraft their toys from sustainably farmed hardwood trees, there are no dyes are used, and certified organic flax seed oil serves as a finish on the toys. This is a great shop! You can read the feature here . Until next time, Kim XO

the rikrak studio: thanks thanks thanks + the new sponsors giveaway!

2009-10-27T07:09:00.000-06:00

the rikrak studio: thanks thanks thanks + the new sponsors giveaway!

Wishlist Tuesday Oct 27, 2009

2009-10-27T07:01:00.000-06:00

Halloween is almost here, and soon we'll be switching gears and thinking about Christmas :) One of the things I like to do every Christmas season is attend the Ballet - and nothing gets me in the spirit more than attending The Nutcracker! And since there are not many opportunities these days to really get all fancy and dressed up, I tend to go all out. So here are my Wishlist Tuesday picks for what I'll be wearing to the Ballet this year!

1) An Unforgettable Cocktail Dress with a Beautiful Aubergine Venice Lace Applique Neck by Chuletindesigns

2) Holly Earrings - green onyx and sterling silver by Kande

3) skinny amethyst bangle by sirenjewels

4) Peacock Clutch in Silk Brocade Teal and Black Antique Brass Frame by ClutchThat

5) Vintage Black Patent Leather Classic High Heels by prairielandvintage

6) Taylor - Peacock and Black feather clip by LovMely

7) New Moon Sterling Silver Ring by mariaburgos

8) Jersey Long Sleeved Shrug, any colour custom size by larimeloom

Happy Shopping :) Until next time, Kim XO.

Happy Saturday!!!

2009-10-24T12:39:00.000-06:00

Hello! I hope everybody is having a great weekend so far :) I just wanted to say that I am so glad I decided to do a GIVEAWAY because everybody has been writing such nice comments!!! Seriously, I'm blushing here ;) I can't wait to find out who wins - but there is still another week to enter! Tell your friends!

Also if you haven't already, check out the giveaway that the rik rak studio is doing right now to say thanks to all of her sponsors - and yes I am one! So if you don't happen to win this my giveaway :( you still have another chance with the rik rak giveaway!

In other news, I spent the day yesterday at the Saskatoon Quilters Guild Quilt Show - not really my thing to do but my mom wanted to go so my sister and I packed up the baby and went to meet grandma at the show :) And I was just absoloutely blown away with some of the quilts that I saw there. Unreal! I am including some of the pictures I took there with this post.

Have a Wonderful Weekend! Until next time, Kim XO.

TGIF!!! Oct 23/2009

2009-10-23T08:30:00.000-06:00

This weeks' installment of TGIF - get ready to shop, shop, shop is inspired by my love of bags :) Infact I recently purchased one from bayanhippo after weeks and weeks of "window" shopping (which is ALWAYS fun ;) ) and a couple more weeks of deciding which one I loved the best. I finally decided on one of course, but it is my goal with this post to make that job easier for you - my readers! So I have picked a small selection of great bags in several different styles and hopefully you find one you love :) Have fun!!!

My first pick is this great Ruffles in grey with leather strap by lovejanice . This is the perfect shoulder bag - it is roomy without being too large, its got lots of pockets (very important!), made out of a sturdy material (cotton twill and linen), and the ruffles dress it up so it doesn't look too utilitarian! I even love the grey, and you can never go wrong with a neutral!

My next pick is this Flat Bottom Firm Frame purse by JPATPURSES in Blooms on Black. Every one needs a change purse to tuck into thier shoulder bag, and sure maybe nobody will see it, but that doesn't mean you can't get a really cute one! I love these little frame purses by JPATPURSES - and they come in several different sizes and fabric prints. With so much choice you'll be sure to find one you love too, and maybe you'll even pull it out of your bag more often just to show it off ;)

Speaking of cute accessories to tuck into your shoulder bag - here is another great one, the Embroidered Wallet - Sage Branches on brown by LBaccessories. I love this wallet! Great colour combination, great fabric choice (linen), lots of pockets inside to hold all your cards and money, and I especially love the embroidery on the outside. One of the things I always look for when I am deciding on a bag/wallet purchase are these kinds of details - they make the item feel a little more personalised and thats always a great thing!

Here is another great roomy shoulder bag, the LOVEE Messenger, dark blue and red canvas with hearts by sineminugur . If you are looking for a roomy bag with an adjustable strap in a fun print - this is the one for you!!! Its got pockets for organisation, sturdy fabric so you can carry items that are little bit heavier, and a magnetic snap closure under the top flap keeps it all inside! ***psst! this is one of the bags I almost bought ;)

If you are looking for a roomy shoulder bag that is also 100% vegan, 100% natural, and 100% sustainable then this Large Vegan Weekender in Brick and Butternut by pansymaiden is the one for you! There are a ton of pockets, a key fob, and a large zippered pocket on the exterior of the bag, as well as the two deep "hoodie" pockets on the front of the bag for organisation. This bag also comes a variety of colours and there is also a detachable shoulder strap.

In the market for something really fun???? ;) The Black and Cream Leather Doctor Bag with Dipper Bird by bonspielcreation has been on my "bag radar" for ages! I love the shape, the lining, the colour, and of course the screenprint of the Dipper Bird on the front - truly unique! There is also a wide assortment of smaller leather accessories in the shop, including wallets and card holders, and all are screenprinted with cute little pictures. You need to check out this shop!

Moving on to something more for a night out on the town.... first is this Raspberry Chocolate Cake - 8 inch Silk lined Frame Clutch Bag by DavieandChiyo . The clutch is made with dupioni silk (inside and out) and then is embroidered with this beautiful bright pink flower. It also features a detachable ribbon laced chain. This great little clutch is very versatile and would compliment many different outfits!

My last pick is a simple small zippered clutch, but its the fabric choice that makes these cute little bags so great. The Purple ume clutch purse by theprinttree is a 9"x5.5" zippered clutch made with a lovely japanese designer fabric and features a fabric covered button for decoration. It will hold all your essentials for a night out, but because it is made of cotton there is no worrying about ruining a fancy silk purse! These fabulous little clutches come in a wide variety of fabric choices - good luck trying to choose just one ;)

Happy shopping :) Until next time Kim XO.

CanArtisan post today and (another) Giveaway! :)

2009-10-21T12:14:00.000-06:00

Its Wednesday - that means its CanArtisan guest blog post day!!! This week I am featuring ShimmeringSky - Bobbie has a really cute shop and some great photographs so I really think you should check it out, here is the link to the article :

http://canartisan.blogspot.com/2009/10/new-canadian-shops-on-etsyshimmering.html

I am also really excited that Bobbie lauched a new product in conjuction with the feature - you can see the first of a line of clutches in the picture I have posted here to the right ----->

Please read and comment!!!

I am pleased to report my giveaway is going well, I am really encouraged by the results. I know that a couple of people have had troubles signing up through Google but DON'T WORRY :) You're comments have been entered into the giveaway. I completely understand that Google can be a little stupid :) sometimes!

I am also participating in a giveaway on the rik rak studio - if you don't already know, I run an ad on Kristal's blog and she is kindly offering a $25 gift certificate to the winner that can be used in any of her sponsors shops. Go here for a list of her sponsors and all the details of the giveaway!!!

Have a WONDERFUL Wednesday :) Until next time, Kim XO.

Wishlist Tuesday Oct 20, 2009

2009-10-20T10:31:00.000-06:00

This weeks Wishlist Tuesday post is about dressing up your walls! If you have been reading this blog awhile you would know that we recently moved into a new house - so I have been really drawn to bright, colourful, original, and of course handmade works of art :) I don't discriminate either, I like photography, paintings, collages, prints... so here is a selection that I am particularly drawn to. Enjoy! As always, until next time, Kim XO.

1) The Courtesan (art print) by stilettoheights

2) Memories of Spring - Original Fine Art Photograph 5x7 by JaredKS

3) Sisters - print by carambatack

4) Original acrylic painting with glass beads texture gel - Modern Zebra by moonthroughfog

5) Urchin - Original Signed Fine Art Photograph by AliciaBock

6) Original Romance is in the Air Watercolour Painting by jellybeans

7) The Eiffel Tower in Pink - 8x8 Fine Art Print by photoatelier

8) Theatrics...8x9 Fine Art giclee archival print by ImagineStudio

GIVEAWAY!!!!! Oct 19 - Nov 1 2009

2009-10-19T09:28:00.000-06:00

Announcing my first giveaway!!!!! So exciting :)

If you are a reader of my blog already, you will already know that I have been "pimping" the blog lately, and now that I have got it looking the way I want it - I need more readers :)

Hence the GIVEAWAY!

I am offering as the prize : ANY piece of the winners' choice from my

One-of-a-Kinds section in my Etsy shop.

All you have to do to enter is :

Follow my blog and then visit my shop A little bit of pretty, look around, come

back here and leave a comment on this post telling me you are following this blog and which

piece in my shop is your favourite and why. And make sure to leave me an

email address too so I can contact you if you win!

Giveaway is open for 2 weeks, and closes 12pm EST on Nov 1/2009.

The winner will be chosen at random using Random.org's random number generator.

Once we have a winner, I will contact them and they can select the piece they want!

Good Luck :)

TGIF!!! Oct 16/2009

2009-10-16T10:15:00.000-06:00

This weeks' installment of TGIF - get ready to shop, shop, shop - is inspired by Halloween of course :) Specifically kids Halloween parties. When I was in elementary school there was this one family that threw elaborate Halloween parties every year, and they invited all their childrens classmates. I had never been to a party like that before, and I certainly haven't been to one like that since. My parents didn't didn't see the point in throwing huge parties for my sister and I - but I am determined that when I am a parent, birthday parties and Halloween are going to be a big deal!!! So I have put together a list of some great party planning ideas - Have Fun!!! As always, until next time, Kim XO.

What better way to set the mood than Halloween Bats 50 Lighted Lanterns by coughcoughchoke ? This is such a cool idea! And a great way to achieve that "spooky" ambience. There are 50 handmade paper lantern shades on this 12 foot strand of 1 1/2 inch bulbs. Sure to be a hit with the kiddies!!

Another great addition to your decorations are these Metallic textured and ribbed cardstock Bat punches by JessieRock. These make great themed confetti to sprinkle onto your table, and each package holds approximately 50 bat punches. They are 1 1/8 by 9/16 inches and are made out of heavy black metallic card stock.

Where do you get Witches Brew, Pirate Poison, Ravens Blood, and Midnight Mead? The kiddies will all be wondering that when you place these bottles on the tables in front of them! This is a Set of 4 Spookalicious Fun Halloween Bottle Labels by MidniteMuse. You find your own bottles, fill 'em up with your drinks, put on these self adhesive labels and you're ready to party!!! And you are also being kind to Mother Nature by reusing your empties - bonus!

I love DIY projects, but I also love the look of professional invitations. This Drop By...A Cute Custom Halloween Party Invitation by onyourtime is the best of both worlds! All you do is choose your design and email your info to Chris and within 24hrs she will email you a proof to approve. Once you've got a design you like, you get the file and are free to take it to any photo finisher of your choice (or just to your printer at home) and VOILA! Professional looking invites :)

What is a kids Halloween party without treat bags???? Wouldn't it be even better if you could personalise each one? You can with this Set of Set of 24 Personalised Favor Bags by LittlebeaneBoutique ! With this purchase comes 24 favor bags and 24 long vertical stickers that you personalise by sending the artist all your info. This is a great finishing touch to any kids party!

And last, but certainly not least, why not add a special little touch to the food too? CupcakeFlair has a wide assortment of "accessories" for everyones favourite little cakes but these Spider Web Cupcake Wrappers are the perfect accessory for your Halloween party (although not neccessarily ONLY for kids parties :) ). This is a set of 12 black laser cut spider web cupcake wrappers that you slip on your cupcakes after they have been baked.

Happy shopping :)

CanArtisan post today and a Giveaway!

2009-10-14T10:24:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!! Hope you are having a great Wednesday so far :) Just a short post to remind you that today is my CanArtisan guest blog post and I am featuring WryAndGinger this time. If you are a fan of witty, sarcastic humour then you will love Cheryl's shop - I promise!

Link to the post is here : New Canadian Shops on Etsy

Also if you have little kids in your life you will be interested in this, Audrey's Country Crafts is hosting a wonderful giveaway by This Little Piggy . Up for grabs is your choice of 3"x5" decoupaged handmade piggy banks - all are one-of-a-kinds! Go here : This Piggy Giveaway to read the great artist interview and enter!

Until next time, Kim XO.

Wishlist Tuesday

2009-10-13T10:13:00.000-06:00

This weeks Wishlist Tuesday was inspired by my need to get organized!!! It's a constant battle :) And since I am currently organizing and setting up my workspace I need each and every one of these items! Enjoy, until next time Kim XO.

1) Three Large Comfy Fabric Storage Bins....58 fabric choices by sewingmomma

2) 2010 Monogram Style Monthly Planning Calendar by LifeSimplified

3) Business Card and Address File Box by FreestyleGifts

4) Busy Bee Needlebook by JennMaruskaDesign

5) Barnwood Pencil Holder by ParadiseHillDesigns

6) 22 x 26 Zebra Fabric Covered Bulletin Memo Board by ExclusivelyByMaritza

7) Bird on a branch Paperweight by PaperFlowers

8) 4 tray pencil/jewelry box by arrikworld

TGIF!!!

2009-10-09T11:52:00.000-06:00

Hey everybody!!!! This is my first TGIF post - my Friday picks to help you get ready to shop, shop, shop!!! These picks are just some of my favourites, if you like them too thats great, but I really just want to inspire you :) For this weeks picks I was inpsired by all the cold weather we have been having lately - Saskatoon has snow already!!! Yikes, I mean where did fall go? Makes me want to bundle up and make some hot chocolate. Hope you like them, enjoy!

First, is this Grey Scarf with Three Buttons by homelab. The reason I love this scarf is because of the buttons! They're so cute :) And I love that this scarf is foolproof, no fussy wrapping and re-wrapping to get that perfect carefree "I just threw this on" look - it's perfect everytime you put it on. It also comes in black.

My next pick is this great ELORA chunky slouchy toque by yarnovermovement. These slouchy hats are so hot right now, and this one has a great shape to it but it isn't really huge. This hat also comes in a variety of colours which is great.

I love little cropped sweaters!!!! I wear a lot of these, even year round because there is air conditioning everywhere. And in the winter when you need to wear sweaters everyday to work, sometimes a great big chunky, comfy one is too much. This Cozy Crop by SquirrelyWhirls is the perfect solution! You are covered up just enough, but you don't get too hot. This one has a choice of 4 colours.

I am really wanting a pair of long mittens right now, and these one are great because they are in a really nice charcoal colour. These Twilight-Bellas Mittens by KnittingCarnival are also inspired by a pair of mittens in Bella's wardrobe from the movie Twilight. These are bound to be VERY popular!

My last pick is this great Hand Knitted Jacket Cable Wrap by alasdelsur . Perfect for those nippy, fall walks - you can just thrown this cable wrap on over whatever you are wearing to ward off the cold air! It looks so snuggly and soft, a great addition to your fall wardrobe :)

Well there they are - my 5 TGIF picks for this week. Happy shopping! Until next time, Kim XO

PS My shop is offering FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING this weekend (Oct 9,10,11) on all items except the Bridal Collection. Free! Anywhere in the world!!! :) (sorry - shameless plug!!)

Weekend Deals!

2009-10-08T15:20:00.000-06:00

Short post today to let everyone know about Weekend Deals this weekend (Oct 9,10,11) - Free Worldwide Shipping. Thats right, I am offering Free Worldwide Shipping on all items in my shop (**except the Bridal Collection**) to anywhere in the world!! All my Casual Collection items are one-of-a-kind as well so you know you'll be getting a truly unique piece :)

This is the last month I will be listing these items - I am planning a major shop reorganization and second shop opening very soon! I want to separate my 2 lines of jewellery because they have completely different looks and also expand on the number of pieces I have to sell. In addition, my Casual Collection will no longer be stocked with one-of-a-kinds - I am currently developing a winter line so that there is a more cohesive look to my shop and I want to incorporate the monthly birthstones into it. I can't wait and I hope you like the result too! Stay tuned :) Until next time, Kim xo.

New Canadian Shops on Etsy

2009-10-07T17:43:00.000-06:00

Today is my New Canadian Shops on Etsy post on CanArtisan, written on Sunny Skies Jewellery. I'll leave you with a link to the post : http://canartisan.blogspot.com/2009/10/new-canadia-etsy-shopssunny-skies.html and my favourite piece from her shop! Until next time, Kim xo.

Wishlist Tuesday

2009-10-06T16:58:00.001-06:00

This is my first wishlist post!!! I decided on a kitchen/cooking theme because I have been revved up to do more cooking since I saw Julie&Julia - infact I went right out a bought Julia Child's "Mastering the Art of French Cooking". Last night I made my first dish, and - success! :) So here are my pics :

1) Fawn Christmas Apron by hometoroost

2) Mom's Kitchen Moss Terrarium by Greenbriar

3) Misty Minty Green Carved Serving Bowl by DarriellesClayArt

4) Chalkboard with Vintage Frame by KFMGallery

5) Custom Map Magnets by ksickles

6) Granite Utensil Holder by twobeans

7) Big Pom Pom Decal by Elephannie

8) Pride and Prejudice Proposal stout cream/pitcher by Brookish

Happy shopping :) Until next time, Kim xo.

"Pimp My Blog" in the works...

2009-10-04T13:42:00.000-06:00

Just a short post this time to let everyone know what I am doing. I am currently deciding on a regular posting schedule where I can feature my favourite handmade shops or something like that. I am also planning on posting my about my CanArtisan feature every week. I need to do something to bring more traffic to this blog, and also my shop. Perhaps I should make a survey? I could post it in the etsy forums, and send it to my facebook fans.... hmmmm. Thats an idea - I could get some more opinions..... I think I will! Off to find that surveymonkey link. What do you think of my new twitter avatar? Until next time, Kim xo.

I have a feature column on CanArtisan!!!

2009-10-01T17:09:00.000-06:00

So I mentioned in my last post that I had been scouring the internet for more promotional opportunities right? Well I came across this blog called CanArtisan that features only Canadian artisans who have shops on Etsy, Artfire, byhand.me, etc and noticed that there was a free directory listing. Of course I applied right away for that - always a great idea to take advantage of as many free directories as possible! While I was filling out my info on the form, the "want free advertising" plug on the page caught my eye. With my interest further piqued :) I delved further - turns out Brandi (writer of CanArtisan) was offering free advertising in exchange for writing on the blog! Sounded great - what did I have to do? Just pitch her an interesting story. So I did. I proposed writing a piece showcasing a new Canadian Etsy shop every week. And by new I mean new within the year new. Cool idea huh? Brandi liked it! Super awesome! Ok so now all my browsing and "window" shopping on Etsy has a purpose and a direction. I'm pretty stoked - free listing, free advertising, and my first opportunity to guest write on a blog, very cool :)

Who did I pick? DreamGallery from Kaslo, BC. Read the feature here : CanArtisan - Thursday's Art Gallery . Well thats all for now.... off to do more shopping :) I'll leave you with my fave of DreamGallery's collection. Until next time! Kim xo

Long time, no see!

2009-09-29T15:26:00.002-06:00

Yikes! Its been 3 weeks since my last post. Oops :) Time flies by so fast - especially when you're moving! Our new house was majorly dirty when the last owners moved out, and we also decided to repaint the whole thing. Lots and lots of work - but its done now and it looks fabulous!

Also is the last 3 weeks I have been making new items, taking pictures and more pictures, listing them, running Facebook ads to find myself some new fans (successful!) and searching, searching, searching for new opportunities to promote my shop. Oh yeah and working on the dreaded business plan. Makes me tired just reading that again phew!

So all in all this are going well. Also this week I will begin a guest blog post on CanArtisan featuring new Canadian Etsy shops! Am looking forward to this alot - I think it will be alot of fun! Speaking of which - I have to get started on that post. Oh yeah, I made myself a new banner - what do you think? Until next time, Kim

Getting there slowly

2009-09-05T20:15:00.002-06:00

Finally I have finished the pieces I need for the Fall Weddings Showcase! Lots and lots of time spent with a needle and thread - yes I said needle and thread :) This time I decided to stitch some of my pieces together instead of just stringing them on beading wire. Tomorrows job is descriptions and pictures, I need to list this week. The spots I have are Sept 11 and 12 - so I still have a week to get things together but I want to get them done early. I also want to completely reorganize my site, and maybe get some advertising going. We'll see how much I get done this week! This is a short post this time but I promise there will be more next time! Until later, Kim :)

Must post more....

2009-09-02T21:24:00.002-06:00

Aak! I am very sporadic at this blog - I must get a more regular schedule of posting down!!! Gosh, this last week has been super mad busy, and this next one coming isn't going to get any better.... we are painting and cleaning our new house so we can move in at the end of the month. So between that, looking after Claire, and working on a new jewelry line I am not getting much time in on the business proposal. I hate, hate, hate not making deadlines! It makes me feel like such a failure :( Ughh - guess that is what I'll be doing this weekend. Plus I have this marathon I am supposed to be training for - did I mention that? Yup I joined up with Joints in Motion for the Arthritis Society of Canada to fundraise and run a marathon in Athens, Greece next year! To date I have not even started thinking about my fundraising because I have been busy launching my Etsy shop. Well once things level out abit I will have to get started on that.

As mentioned I have been really busy, busy launching my shop. Actually truth be told, I have been reevaluating the direction of it and have now decided that my focus will be bridal jewelry. I have been working really hard lately getting enough to launch next week - also expect a completely reorganized shop layout!!! Now to get some sleep - gotta early start tomorrow! Until next time, Kim :)

Things are lookin' up!

2009-08-27T14:21:00.004-06:00

So since my last post there has been some great news... I applied for and was accepted to join the Etsy LabRats which is so cool! I am new to this whole selling on the internet and starting my own business, so it is so nice to have a group of people in the same situation to lean on :) Most of my teammates are new to etsy, but there are some veterans too. I'm pretty pumped about the whole thing - I'm sure you can tell! I also posted my first LabRats treasury last night. Treasuries are a great way to get involved in the etsy community - plus I just love to "window" shop haha. Its fun thinking up new themes for each new treasury.

In other parts of my life.... we are moving! Thank goodness because this place is getting so crowded, honestly it feels smaller everyday. It certainly doesn't help that I keep buying more and more supplies either! Geez... oh I suppose I should tell you that I live with my sister and brother-in-law and my almost 9 month old niece :) I moved in here when I was still working as a geologist and so was out of town ALOT, so the squishyness of the house wasn't so bad. Luckily they are able to now buy their first home, so it will be alot more comfortable for everyone :)

So baby in the house, moving, starting my own business - you could say that I am very busy and stressed, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Working for myself is the best thing I ever decided to do, and I would die if I missed out on any of Claire growing up. I wouldn't trade it for anything :)

Last thing, I am developing a line of bridal jewelry - so stay tuned!!! Talk to you later, Kim

New Beginnings....

2009-08-23T19:38:00.002-06:00

So here goes.... my first blog. Wierd. I have never been much of a journal person or one to write tons and tons of letters to people so this seems a little of a stretch for me. But I'm all about doing new things these days - so why not? I opened my Esty shop and listed my first items on Jul 31. So far, it hasn't gone so bad. Very steep learning curve for me though!!! I never thought that I would actually start my own business, but here I am. I wish I was a candidate for Quit Your Day Job, but in actuality I quit my day job before I had any serious thoughts about changing my hobby into my full time job. Anyways... in the interest of keeping this first post short - and leave you waiting for more! (haha) I'll leave it there for now, and post a couple of my new listings so you can see what I'm all about :) More to come soon, enjoy!