Champagne wishes and bead dreams

This past Saturday my good friend (and lover of all things TKO) Tracey hostessed a jewelry party at the Rhodes pad.

It was GOOD times for sure ... She showed up - champagne, fruit and fondue in hand - and set up a beautiful spread fit for a queen!!

It was a WONDERFUL turnout -- the best yet I think -- and I think everyone had a good time ... especially those who found their way to my bead room/studio -- discovering creations from years gone by ... as well as lots of fun treasures that I haven't yet had a chance to create with yet.

Cat & Heather enjoyed checking out some of my newer stuff that hasn't been released yet ... it's kind of fun sharing new stuff with the ladies ... like a preview sort of.


Even the kitties came out for a little cuddling with Emily -- but mostly just wanted to stay hidden away from all the ladies ... which is where I'm sure Casey would have liked to be as well ... but he was a good sport about hanging out in a house full of lovely ladies :)

I'm looking forward to more parties again soon ... maybe even I should think about doing an open studio type of event ... something to think about for sure!!

BEADISSIMO!!

So ... during my "sabbatical" I've accomplished a LOT ... but the biggest thing I did was to get a part-time gig at my FAVORITE bead store -- Beadissimo!!

If you haven't been to visit this amazing place ... you HAVE to go. I have been working there officially just over a week ... and am enjoying every minute of it. I'm learning a TON and the best part is the opportunity to work with ladies (and gentlemen) new to jewelry making. I have gained SO much confidence in my jewelry making abilities ... and as much as I love selling the stuff I've made ... it's that much more fun to be around others who are also exploring the joy of beading.

Once I got my feet under me there -- back in the retail world ... HELLO CUSTOMERS -- I started to feel right at home. I get to show new jewelry makers the basics -- which up to now have mostly been reserved for my own home studio. I've gained a new level of confidence in my skill and abilities ... and I have to say ... those four years of making jewelry for friends and taking classes, as well as trying to get my own business off the ground have really paid off.

I will still be working at FH -- but spending two afternoons at the bead store as well as one day a weekend. Please do come visit ... I'll be there every Monday and Thursday from 1:30 to close ... who knows ... perhaps you can join me in the world of jewelry making!!

My bio should be up later this week or early next week ... then it'll all be so very very official!!