What Do You Fancy Most This Fall?

Keep an eye out for some hints about what our fall / winter collection will look like.  Autumn 2010 has us yearning for the glitz and glamour of old hollywood.  A georgeous vintage rhinestone necklace just might do the trick - but hurry - even though our shop reveal was mere days ago (as of this post), these necklaces are going quickly.  We'll be working hard to bring you more unique finds all season! http://www.etsy.com/listing/54479477/vintage-rhinestone-art-deco

Fall Is In the Air (or Boutonniere?)

With the hum of late summer bugs and shorter days, we're pretty sure of one thing: fall is right around the corner--and our new fall boutonnieres are already here!  Inspired by cooler temps and the colors of changing leaves, find styles to infuse your fall affair; be sure to snag one for your fall formal or autumn wedding.  Guys and grooms alike are sure to love these! www.etsy.com/shop/MeadowbelleMarket?section_id=6009426

Get Ready! Our First Ever Sample Sale!

Approximately one year ago, Erin and I (Aundrea), began adding a new line to our online jewelry shop.  We began designing and creating handmade items for a personal and stylish touch to your wedding event.  Now, after one wedding fashion show and a recent trunk show, we have decided to offer our unique, first-of-a-kind, and one-of-a-kind items to you!

Refreshed by a brief hiatus at the beginning of July (Erin and her new hubby decided to take a vacation get-away, while Aundrea and her husband celebrated their wedding anniversary, the fourth holiday, and each of their birthdays which happen to fall in the first two weeks of July--of course, Erin was back just in time for a collective birthday celebration with Aundrea.  Sisters (and twins) always celebrate together!), we are ready to share our latest and greatest with you.

Here are a few sneak-peak photos from our most recent trunk show.  Look for more exciting items soon in our online shop!  http://www.meadowbellemarket.etsy.com/
*Photos courtesy of Melissa Lin Ellis Photography*

Love Necklace Sends Love to Haiti: Donation Update

The final tally is in.  Inspired by the outpour of hope and help for Haiti, our Sterling Silver Loved Necklace was created to benefit the recovery from the 2010 earthquake.  From the sale of each necklace, $15 dollars was donated to the relief fund.  As of July 2010, a total of $225 has been donated. 
We would like to sincerely thank everyone who has made this donation possible--without you, we couldn't have done it!  Words simply are not enough. 
(*Read more about our Loved Necklace here: http://www.nbclosangeles.com/blogs/want-this/WANT-THIS-Loved-Necklace-81924337.html , Or to request your own personalized necklace, visit our online shop: http://www.meadowbellemarket.etsy.com/ )

One Life Reaches Many Others in a Profound Way; Real Stories, Real People {A Series by Meadowbelle Market}

Immediately stirred by the tragedy of the earthquake in Haiti, we created a 'Loved' necklace to support both the brave survivors and the volunteers from all over the world, ready to lend their assistance, rescue, and relief to a devastated nation. From citizens in the US to nations far and wide collecting food and water, to doctors and rescue workers worldwide, never did we imagine how the tragedy of a nation would coincide with the tragedy of a family's loss.

Among everyone who showed their support to the Haiti relief fund by purchasing a 'Loved' necklace from our store ($15 from each purchase is donated on behalf of Haiti relief efforts), the friend of one family touched us the most. Inspired by love, dedication, and generosity, we have been moved to create a series in which we would like to share the first 'real story' of 'real people' with you.

Often one may wonder what our own life has meant or what it will be once we are gone.  The impact one life can have on many became evident when Paula lost her 23 year old daughter Alexis to cancer.  Clare (Alexis' obstetrician), who delivered both the joy of Alexis' infant son Caelen, and the devestating news of her advanced cancer, was determined that the honor of a young life well lived, but gone all too soon would not only be remembered, but continue to serve a further purpose.

After purchasing a 'Loved' necklace from our shop, we received the following message from

Clare:

"Dear Erin and Aundrea, I received your LOVED necklace and card so beautifully wrapped that I was almost in tears. It moved me so much I decided to give it to Alexis.  Paula put the necklace on Alexis before she was buried.  Many thanks. I think it was a great idea for Haiti, and Alexis would thoroughly approve of that."

Clare followed up by making sure that each close friend and family member would recieve a necklace as a symbol of the impact Alexis' life had held, not only on herself but others as well.  Now Alexis' young son Caelen who was just four months old when his mother passed away, Caelen's father Peter, her sister Karla, brother Sean, Mum Paula, aunt Karen, and best friend Nicola will carry with them a small daily reminder of the beautiful soul that lived, and was surely and undoubtedly 'Loved'.

Organization, Take 2! : The Office

{By Aundrea}

Since I figure I can strech this organization theme from "New Year's Resolution" to "Spring Cleaning", I've decided to tackle the dreaded 'office'. While organization might not seem very wedding related, quite often the unsuspecting new Bride-to-Be realizes that wedding planning can be much like a 2nd job. In addition, sorting through items to combine households and receiveing new wedding gifts gives you a renewed sense of 'nesting' for the life ahead. Suddenly you realize that if you haven't honed these skills yet, you'd better start, because something's going to have to get you through what can sometimes be the chaos of wedding planning.

Why can the office be a constant source of tension? I think it is because we're expected to work there, and let's face it, work can create mess...so how do you achieve a workable area that stays tidy?
I've approached the office delima much like I do my work and designs--like a puzzle with pieces waiting to be assebled in the correct place. A little planning ahead, thinking through both workflow and problem areas will get this done. Some questions you might ask are: Where do I begin the day? What areas can be dedicated to different tasks? What items or tools do I need nearby for each task? It helped me to literally draw a map of my office and then dedicate areas to specific jobs.
Here are the photos of my office ( I don't have any 'before' photos, so just imagine the worst--because it was!):

* (LEFT): Placed in the closet, I love this desk because of how the space is utilized (found at Nebraska Furniture Mart, clearance section): On the left of the desk, the top narrow drawer pulls out to hide my laptop when not in use.

The area directly underneath which would normally be empty space (on most desks), provides more shelves and a bottom pull-out tray where I can keep my desk space clear by storing a caddy with most-often-used items within reach but out of the way.
Last, I added storage containers (at Wal-Mart, $6 ea.) to keep shelves tidy looking and items accessible. Two cloth shoe holders placed on the right hold fabric. Above, balloon curtains (Target, clearance) hide shelves with photography equipment.








*(ABOVE, RIGHT): Shelves painted white unify the look, outfitted with small cup hooks that hold metal baskets. (I love this part--I feel like I'm in a gardening shop--and who doesn't love to be reminded of the outdoors while working?). A word of inspiration to remind you to "dream" never hurts.



*(LEFT): Same white shelf, with holes drilled on the top provide a perfect resting place for clear glass cone shaped holders (found at the dollar store, $1 ea.). Cup hooks underneath add more storage options.

Opposite the closet desk, a book shelf holds the printer, books, and storage storage baskets.

* A bench doubles as storage for what would otherwise be 'empty' space. (I found this bench at Target, and immediately thought of using it under this small desk--which used to be a sewing table that I painted white. I went home and took measurements of the empty space under the desk, and it COULD NOT BE a more PERFECT fit!!!! Thrilling, when this sort of thing happens. It also matches the walls quite well. My lucky day :)

A large vintage armoire was cut down to just the drawers, painted white, label pulls added. On top rests a paper/ribbon/all-purpose storage holder (made by my loving husband). Underneath a nearby window, bouquet flowers are displayed flower box style in another shelf that has been drilled with holes and painted white.

*(Below, right): Inovices and shipping receipts for the year are filled by month, and remain close at hand in a vintage metal holder (yes, painted white).

*(Below, middle & Right): A metal bar with clips (designed with the help of my husband again) holds printed orders ready to be made so that I can see order details and make notes.

Getting Organization Out of the Gray Area

For days the sky has been gray. The kind of enveloping gray that leaves the hour non-descript, uncertain if it is late morning or afternoon. Along with the resolute gray and much like the last thawing piles of Christmas snow, memories of the holidays are melting into a murky pool of bygone memories. However, the new year is young, and the resolutions are fresh, so despite the dreariness of the late days of January I've decided to make the most of this mid-winter lull.



My decree for the new year? Organization. Not very original, I know. But with the unyielding weather outside, I've decided to clear the fog of disorganization. The theory is this: I will spend x amount of time getting organized, then all remaining time will be spent in a flurry of absolute productivity. Ambitious, yes--but it's worth a try.

Similarly, many a generally well-organized individual gets engaged and suddenly turns into a perplexed bride wondering where to begin planning. Often times a wedding also means a move to a new location, or learning to co-habitate. Enhancing your organizational skills can improve the efficiency of your wedding day decisions and help you merge a household full of two individuals belongings, plus the addition of wedding gifts.

The Plan: Since everything is all about the details (for me), and nothing gets done without a list, I will break down my organization into tasks by identifying the "problem areas". You can adapt by making your own list. For example, tangled electronic cords are wearisome in our house. They can be found clustered anywhere--and yet they remain unused and unidentified.

My first simple goal began with organizing the notorious pile of cords into a manageable spot. I started with a through search to pull all (unattached) electrical cords from various drawers, cabinets, and closets. Once I had a satisfying cluster of cords sitting in front of me, I untangled and labeled.

{BRIDES}: (If you are a new bride, choose an important task, such as "catering" and make a list of your ideals--such as menu, number of guest, price, etc.).

The Materials: I picked up an array of labels in various sizes and styles to have at hand, plus markers for labeling, of course. You may choose one color (I used black) or pick a punchy color that you love, just be sure it's easy to read.

{BRIDES}: (This is the part where you start compiling a list of caterers contact info.--or whatever category you have chosen for this task. Start by asking for references, then do some research online. Always check reviews.)

Storage: Once you have everything sorted and labeled (be sure to toss /donate any cords for discarded appliances or electronics), choose a bin and a spot to store your newly organized stash. If the cords are used often, you might choose to place them in a silverware tray with dividers and store them in a drawer in your office or main living area. If the majority of cords are "extras" for your current electronics, a basket stored on a closet shelf will work fine.

{BRIDES}: (Start calling the vendor for your chosen task. Make appointments to meet with your top vendors, then choose "the one"!).

Congratulations! You're on your way to a more clutter free New Year!

REMEBER - {STORE LIST}:

* markers, pens

* sticky labels, various sizes

* bins, basket, or drawer organizer