Rose Gilley Designs by Shannon Culmo

What I just finished reading....

2012-01-17T08:53:00.000-08:00

Have you read "Half the Sky"? Not an easy read, but a must. Violence against women is so unbelieveably prevelant and yet so undiscussed. Doesn't matter what country your in, no one wants to talk about it or hear about it. Breaks my heart. Half the Sky does talk about it, but also offers up options of what each of us can do to get involved...

Take a few minutes and read it, see what you think, and see what you can do.

January 2012

2012-01-09T10:31:00.000-08:00

So I recently bought another book, yes another book..."how to see your crafts online", it focuses on Etsy but also other media. I have to say it has some good suggestions, including keeping up with your blog, which I am horrible at. But who has time, I barely have time to wake up in the morning, much less keep up with facebook, twitter, my website, blog, stores, and as if I even have time to make anything....that's out the door. I am going to write my own book, "How to have time to make your crafts"....that would be a best seller!!! That is for sure!! So I think I am about to add an "Etsy" button to my blog, we will see if this increases traffic, or just more busy traffic for me.....

As for 2012, bring it on, it is going to be a great year, and let me tell you day 1 was fabulous, the Bay Area, the sun, good food and lots of fun....2012 is going to be great!!!

Don't forget to check out my "Etsy" button. :)

November Here and Gone......

2011-11-16T18:23:00.000-08:00

Here it is the beginning or should I say half way through the holiday season, how about a third of the way through, and I am still trying to figure out where the last 11 months went. Where did spring go, then the hot summer, the fall has just pretty much been skipped over and now...winter? What has happened....

Well regardless of the seasons passing, I have still needed to keep up with the world of Rose Gilley Designs. Trying to figure out facebook, yes I am still figuring things out even tonight right before I typed this. Trying to decide how do I get 100 likes before the end of the year....I need help with that....do I still twitter? NO....who has time, the website, the facebook, the replies, the preparing for shows, displays, paying bills, oh and did I mention I handcraft every individual piece....yes!!! All of them, no casting here ladies and gents...although on days like this I think what an easy way to go....but for now...NO!

So next up, NY, yes we are moving forward and going to do the show....I am completely excited and horrified at the same time, we got juried, and now I have to figure out my display, nothing seems catchy enough, dramatic enough without the $ tag!! But I am sure I will figure it out. Then run to Tucson to buy gems for the year, yes I have to admit now that it takes several days to do, it is much more enjoyable...then a show in SF!! Yes, it will be March by then....crazy!!!!!

All in all though, life is great, I am surrounded by people who love me, like who I am and want to be in my presence, we should all be so lucky!! So off to do what I love and to let December know....BRING IT ON :)

Yes we did it......

2011-10-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

We are going to do the New York International Gift Fair, call me crazy, uninformed or whatever you may....but I figure why not jump in while the fire is hot!!! So January New York, February San Francisco and somewhere in between Tucson to buy stones for the year!!!! So exciting and stressful, but it will be a great learning experience!!

As a side note, reading "Half the Sky"...there are no words to explain what emotions it evokes, but I can say....pick it up and read it!!!

Rose Gilley Designs for Trumpette

2011-09-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

We have been blessed, again, to have a relationship designing baby bracelets for Trumpette. You know that great company that makes the best baby socks, amazing bags and t-shirts!! I am so excited for this opportunity!! So when you get a second, visit their site http://www.trumpette.com/collections/accessories and see what you find!!!

Upcoming Events

2011-08-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

To end hot August days, I will be attending Rominger West Winery's summer series, with a booth, wine tasting and yes some music. There will be plenty of vendors and good wine to monopolize anyones time. Rominger West Winery is located in Davis, California and is a small, family owned and operated winery. The people that work there are kind and talented!

12 - 4 August 27th Come out and relax!

Change is good.....

2011-07-21T08:56:00.000-07:00

...so lots of changes coming, a new business adventure and a name and company change....more to come soon, I am still working on it all, but I have a good feeling!!!

June Jubilee

2011-06-10T09:45:00.000-07:00

Back from the ACRE show in Vegas, lets just say it was a learning experience, one in which I will not be participating in, in the future!! But Vegas, as always, was a blast! The question at this point is what didn't we do? We walked, drank, ate, drank, walked and ate again. Went to all casinos, danced, and just had a good time!! The highlight was the top of the Stratosphere and the great view, cocktail, food and watching people jump off the side of the building, that is on my list of what to do next!!

So this June, i will relax, recoup and spend some time on me....that will be nice and much needed! Have a great June....oh and a good book, is the Kelly Cutrone Book, if you are going to cry go outside, (i think that is the title) it is pretty interesting!!

May Exhaustion!

2011-05-24T11:59:00.000-07:00

May is almost over, quick update...Zulily.com one of a kind, exclusive pieces went well...and now to finish pieces to take to the ACRE show in Las Vegas next week!! Out with the old, on to the new....who knew it would all happen so quickly....although lately I have been reading the Traveler Magazine, and thinking of far off tropical places that I so need to visit....asap....but for now, it my mind!! Happy End of May!!!

May Madness

2011-05-11T15:58:00.000-07:00

April flew by, one more year under the birthday belt, and yet I feel a little more spring in my step....or maybe that is just spring!

Thanks to Rose and Thorn in Sebastopol for hosting a trunk show for us the other weekend, the property and store there is unbelieveable and a must visit if you are ever on your way to Bodega Bay!!

Next we have ACRE show in Vegas...yes Viva Las Vegas, or is it lost wages? I can never remember, I suppose it depends on who you are!! For me it will be Viva los Work!!!

We hope the show goes well and we meet buyers of great boutiques and galleries interesting in carrying our one of a kind pieces. Also, check out www.zulily.com May 21 - 23 this month, we will be featured under the new designer category and I have handmade 90 pieces only, they have 2.5 million customers, to sell, these are exclusive pieces and can only be obtained from them for 3 days....so visit!!!! Happy May!!

March Madness

2011-03-07T14:12:00.000-08:00

February is over, and it went quick!! Who knew with so much to do I could miss talking about so much. KKPW Designs just found out we are juried for the ACRE Las Vegas show this coming June, which is terribly exciting, and that means I have to figure out my display, and how to get it there.

This coming Friday we have a Fashion Show at Uptown Girl in El Dorado Hills, and then April 1st and 2nd a Trunk Show at Serendipity in Sacramento, April 30th a Trunk Show at Rose and Thorn, in Sebastopol, CA, and that same weekend, a Spring event on April 30th at Parkside Pharmacy.

Not to mention I am taking a class at the Academy of Art, San Francisco, this is a crazy Spring, but it could be worse, and it has been...so 2011 will be great!!

No new books, no time, and the only thing I have to share is I just bought the CD by Adele, and it is fabulous!! Highly recommend it!!!

February

2011-02-04T18:57:00.000-08:00

It's funny how your years start to cycle as you develop certain parts of your life, whether it is an important time of year because of loss, or gaines, or there is something you do in that same month every year.

February is a hard month for me, it was 2 years ago this month that my dad passed away. It hasn't been an easy 2 years, so much has happened since he passed, so many changes, most of which I have had no control over.

In times like these I find that I need to hold on to something that I know will be there for me. Sounds crazy, but every February I go to Tucson to buy gemstones for my jewelry designs.

I remember the first time I mentioned to my dad that I wanted to go to Tucson to buy gems. Now my dad was always up for anything and everything. He liked to try new things and he was big on encouraging and supporting others. But one of my dads favorite things to do was to find that great "get". So my dad being the great, and I do mean "great", dad that he was, he jumped in his car a few days before I would arrive in Tucson, and he drove from Sacramento to Tucson, just to scope it out for me. I will never forget his phone calls to tell me about what he was seeing, and all the places that I was going to love to visit. It was like he was hosting a TV show about the Tucson Gem Show. I had no idea then that just a few years later he would be gone. My dad died about 3 weeks after I got back from the gem show, just 2 years ago. He and I sat in Cornerstone Cafe and we talked about my trip and I showed him all the great "gets" that I had found. He was a great support to me. My dad didn't go, but he said "next year I am going to go to the show again". He never made it, at least not physically. As I fly through the air to Tucson, I think about my dad being there, and I thank him for being one of the great "gets" in my life.

I am a lucky girl to have a father who was ALWAYS there for me. I love you and you know that I miss you terribly dad!

Life's Uncovered Treasures

2011-01-29T17:00:00.000-08:00

So I love vintage stores, and I mean antique type vintage, furniture. Pieces that have been repurposed, redone, and reloved (I think I made that word up)! So there is a store that I drive by often, usually on Mondays, and it is closed. But Friday I happened by and there it was "OPEN" sign!! YEA!! So I went in to "Le Jardin"..."Fabulous finds for your home and garden" on Freeport Blvd in Sacramento, ol California!! Great store, and I was greeted by Linda, the mother of Janice, they share the shop. It is a great, little place, with the perfect amount of vintage antiques to keep you looking, but not get lost. For me that is key...don't get me lost, I get ADD and then I am out of there. Linda and I had a nice conversation about how long they have been in business, and their previous location. She showed me a delightful old piece of jewelry that she had, which would be so lovely as earrings.

It is a great place and should be visited by all....Le Jardin 2598 21st Street, Sacramento, Ol' California!!!

Day 3 & 4 and Beyond

2011-01-26T08:38:00.000-08:00

So I started off well keeping everyone up to date of the SF show, then I stopped....but good news to report...it was a great success.

We were picked up by some great stores including Hands Gallery in San Luis Obispo and Fern's Garden in Long Beach. We can now be found in a Seattle Show Room, where wonderful stores can pick up some of my designs as well.

And then we were fortunate to get into Bardessono in Yountville, CA, I spiffy, Eco-Friendly, beautiful boutique hotel, in the middle of Napa. A fun town to visit, a great place to eat, and an exciting place to have wine, which I did!!

Bellafloria.com is a wonderful site we were picked up by, that focuses on organic items, and now has an organic jewelry line :)

It was great!!! So I am making an executive decision to do more shows!!! Isn't that exciting? I think so, and at the same time I get stressed about all the possibilities, but good stress!!

Well off to make some new pieces, visit Serendipity Boutique and follow up with Parkside Pharmacy!! Have a great day!!!

Day 2

2011-01-08T22:23:00.000-08:00

Day 1 of the SFIGF brought a slow morning and a rip roaring afternoon...things started slow but we picked up quite a few orders, with some really great stores including Idaho, one right down the street from me in my hometown and a few others...so fun!!

I had a great friend come in and help me out, and only then did good things start to happen. I met a lot of great people, who had the surrounding booths and got some great advice...so I am pumped for the next few days! They will be great!!!

SFIGF

2011-01-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

Set up done for SF show, I think it looks good, although it could always look better. Made 8 trips to unload my car and get everything into the booth, thought I was going to blow my back out!!! Once that was done....walked one hundred miles to a boutique in SF that my pieces are in and 100 miles back, exhausted, but never too much to go to Union Square and do just a wee bit of shopping! I didn't buy anything but I love to look!

Got the show guide for SF show, www.sfigf.com, and there are many great companies there....although my booth is surrounded by jewelry designers, not my favorite, but it is what it is...speaking of which just down loaded that song....good song!

I have help tomorrow, which is greatly appreciated, and in order to get over my major back pain, I took a nice soak...the gym at my hotel is great!

So tomorrow wish me luck, send good thoughts, and who knows maybe you will see my designs in a store near you soon!!

Facebook

2011-01-05T18:47:00.000-08:00

Ok so Facebook, social networking, whatever you want to call it, but it drives me crazy. I can't figure out how to do it, then when I do, I didn't even know I did...then I can't remember all my passwords...yatayatayata...makes me crazy!!

So this weekend the San Francisco International Gift Show...it is going to be a great success, I am determined. When I return I will decide...Boston Show...or not? That is my current question.

In addition, to my surprise I will in fact be going to the Tucson Gem Show...I have gone every year for about the last 5 years and thought I wasn't going to go, but someone came through for me...very kind!

So far 2011 is already looking way better than 2010....and I know it will stay that way. Oh and I did finish "The Happiness Project" book, it is inspiring, insightful and fun to read....give it a try!!

New Year on the Horizon

2010-12-28T17:23:00.000-08:00

So with the new year right around the corner, I am terribly excited!! The last two years have brought so much changes to my life...many of which I can't even begin to talk about. But so change comes growth. I must say though most of this growth is completely unwanted, however, I have had no choice, so therefore I am going to make the most of it. I think, no I will.

I did find out yesterday that another boutique that I am quite fond of is closing, out of San Francisco. Each boutique that has closed has stated "due to the economy", times are tough. It is heartbreaking...so I am off to the San Francisco International Gift Show in just 2 weeks...I hope that it goes well, but with the economy the way it is, it will be interesting to see.

I spent the last week in Las Vegas, can I just say, what a great trip it was...I went to Cirque du Soleil Elvis, which is great at Aria Hotel, I visited the Eiffel Tower, Hoover Dam, Ethel M's Chocolates, saw Jerry Seinfeld (hilarious, laughed my ass off), shopped, spa'd (massage and facial), ran every morning on the strip when it is quiet and only the drunks are up from the night before, I was an Elvette with Big Elvis at Bill's, saw all the decorations, oh and I did gamble, and won, who knew!!! It was a great trip, and much needed. I feel refreshed and have a nice perspective on some things!!

So to all of you....happy holidays...oh and here is to a Rockin' (good kind) or New Year!!!!

Here's to the Next Year

2010-12-21T05:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and enjoy your holidays!! Here's to 2011, a new beginning. I have made a few ecisions about what I am going to do differently in 2011. It is exciting to think of all the posibilities!!

Enjoy!!

Another Small Business Bites the Dirt

2010-12-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

A couple of weeks ago, maybe longer, I received a notice from this great boutique I was in, French Hen, that they were closing. I was so sad to hear it, it was a great boutique that was run by a woman named Nicole and her wonderful mother, and sometimes Nicole's children. It had a very French feel, Parisian flare and couture uniqueness. I loved to go in there, it was everything I wanted my home to feel like. Then the other week I receive an email that a great site, Posh Mama, was closing. This site focused on mother's, delivering information and various giveaways to mothers, and they did a wonderful job.

But with the economy and lack of support from the immediate community these boutiques and others will continue to go out of business. In a country that allows people to dream big and then encourages originality, we somehow don't support it once it is established.

It is saddening. I challenge all the big businesses, making all the money and often monopolizing various industries to spend just as much time encouraging, supporting and directing people and monies to small businesses in their communities. It can only be good for the whole.

So I am off my soap box!!

With this Druzy I the....

2010-12-08T16:25:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine found sterling silver and gold metals from an estate sale...what I have been able to do with the metals is so much fun!! The beaded wire above, I have never worked with, and a bangle is what I came up with...I love it, definitely a statement piece!!

So for the next month...literally from this day forth, I will be working towards making pieces for the SF show, and getting my display ready, as well as my little giveaways...that is my goal.

Oh and yes...I as of today have my business on track...so exciting!!!

Well off to zumba...now that makes me smile too!!

Sacramento, California

2010-12-03T19:02:00.000-08:00

So living in the same town that you grew up in can be not so much fun...sometimes. It can feel like nothing is new and everything is the same. Which of course can be boring. But then you start to realize that there are some great benefits to "the same ol thing".

Well of course the obvious...I never get lost, which is lovely, I know where all the boutiques are, and the malls as well, I can find my favorite greek restaurant in a heartbeat, and know my massage spa phone number by heart (oh and they know me). Because I have been in the same place for so long, it is comfortable, stable and yes it is still fun.

I have been fortunate to run into people throughout town that have been huge supporters of me, kkpw designs, and what I create. So tonight I turn on the news, and Adrienne Bankert of Channel 3 is wearing my earrings. She is a sweet person, I met her several years ago at a fashion event, and she has been kind and supportive of my designs since then. Not to mention the support I have received from Good Day Sacramento, thanks Jackie, and various local blogs. But the best part of being in your home town, is that people appreciate my designs and that they are local, and that my pieces reflect Sacramento, or should I say Sacramento has had an effect on me, therefore an effect on my designs.

Best of Sacramento was last night, it was fun, and do you know how many people I ran into from all different parts of my life. Too many to count, but it reminded me that sometimes, there is new in old, you just have to be open to it!!

New Year

2010-12-01T17:47:00.000-08:00

So for the new year, with regards to reading "The Happiness Project", it makes me want to start a year of working on being "happier". I almost want to follow Gretchen's same path, with a few tweeks here and there, that is for sure!! But the first month of her plan, she cleans and organizes...I love it. Although I have spent most of this year doing that, I am going to reinforce my organizing by going over and through everything in January. February will be month of doing something new....what does that mean? Well how about going to a museum I haven't been to, reading a new book, donating to a new organization, taking up cooking (that would be new for me, maybe I should start with a class first)...I know there is so much more to do, but I am going to start with the first two months for now. As for the jewelry business, I am going to apply the same philosophy. Get organized. Then try something new, a new technique, class, develop a new skill. Sounds so exciting and inspiring to me!! Hope your December has started out great!!

Copper, Copper, Copper

2010-11-27T16:45:00.001-08:00

So I use copper in my designs, it is fun to work with and sometimes takes on a rose color, much cheaper than rose gold. Copper has healing properties that alleviate cramp-like pains from menstruation, now that is great! It also is said to promote smooth funtioning of glands. Copper is good for the heart chakras and prepares one for meditation. It is found in the US and all over the world. Copper should be cleaned with hematite stones, and should not come into contact with water.

So I have updated the website...again. I need change, constantly, keep looking for the right look, the right feel...something new. It is almost like cleaning out my closet in some ways.

I was also fortunate to have two good friends of mine, Darcy and Alexa of Me & D, model my jewelry for me. They took so many pictures so I have something to show what pieces look like while being worn.

So up this week is a Holiday Bazaar at Parkside Pharmacy, I am telling you that place is so cute!! And then between now and January 8th, I will be working to get ready for the San Francisco International Show...so excited, I hope it is a good show.

It is time to start thinking about my new year's resolution and in preparation I bought "The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin. I am only about 30 pages into it, and I am loving it!!!

Hope all had a great Thanksgiving...enjoy the upcoming holiday festivities. Up next will be....Jasper. Thats fun!!!

Ladies Night Out

2010-11-19T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last night was ladies night out at the Citizen Hotel, thanks to my delightful girlfriends for going with me. We had a little drink, little food and got to see some local boutiques and local businesses. Thanks to Serendipity and Face It for showing off my pieces as well.....that was very sweet of you!!!

What's new....well Dec 4th is an open house at the Parkside Pharmacy, did I mention it is a boutique, in William Land Park, so I will be working on pieces for that. And guess what, San Francisco International Gift Show is just around the corner, I barely have time!!! But I will get it together!!

Oh and the pieces that I got at last weekends Antique Faire, to incorporate into my designs.....lovely!! Can't wait to use them. Have a great weekend!!

Curate Gifts new website!!!

2010-11-08T17:58:00.000-08:00

I met these ladies, Debra and Mary, at the San Francisco International Gift Show last February and they were embarking, n their new boutique adventure. I was fortunate enough to be one of the designs they chose to put in their store. Most recently, they created the website to go with their boutique. They are located out of New Jersey and have created a unique gift shops.

Their online boutique is fabulous with one of a kind gifts to purchase for yourself, friends, family, yourself (hahaha). But definitely a must check out. My favorite items, so far, are the "Dream" Belt buckle...
http://www.curategifts.com/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=5676

Also....this vintage looking journal
http://www.curategifts.com/store/comersus_viewItem.asp?idProduct=6174

So take a second and check out www.curategifts.com

I can promise that you wont be disappointed!!!

Aquamarine - What does it mean for you....

2010-10-23T17:27:00.000-07:00

Buying jewelry for someone is such a personal thing. It can be helpful to have some insight as to what certain parts of a jewelry piece mean when looking for a gift. So with that I have decided to start providing information about the stones I use....Aquamarine is up to bat!!

Aquamarine is place around the neck to heal neck and throat problems. It can also protect against seasickness. Aquamarine symbolizes peace. It encourages a gentle nature and personality in the wearer. For Aquarius it promotes friendship and love, while for Pisces it encourages awareness. Libras are warned against danger.

The stone is to be worn directly on the skin. It is found in Brazil, Madagascar, Ural, USA, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

"Healing Crystals and Gemstones" Dr. Flora Peschek-Bohmer, Gisela Schreiber

Next stone up for meaning....Copper

What's New!!

2010-10-14T18:58:00.000-07:00

So I love books....and I can't get enough books, magazines, anything that I can read, review, gain knowledge from, and admire!! So lately there isn't a book/magazine that I have passed up, including that I now have a membership to Barnes and Nobles. Right after I got it, my friend said "aren't they going out of business?"....Great...well too late now...so what is my new favorite book purchase..."Where Women Create". It is this amazing book of various fabulous artists who have allowed the cameras into their studios to show off their functional, inspirational and creative studio spaces. I love them all!!! Makes me want to revamp everything!!!

Next up, Parkside Pharmacy November 4th, Ladies Night, then Holiday Bazaar Nov 4 - 7 & Nov 11 - 14, Parkside Pharmacy Holdiay Bazaar December 4th. But tomorrow, new designs into Serendipity Boutique and by next week new designs for Parkside Pharmacy.

Our most recent collaboration and exciting boutique we have entered is Madam Butterfly in the Pavilions. It is an amazing boutique that offers a wide variety of clothing, fashionable and timeless, with much style. All the girls that work there are inviting and very friendly...so check it out Madam Butterfly, Sacramento, Pavilions on Fair Oaks. We'll be back soon!!

Fashion Show

2010-08-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

My friend and I drove to San Francisco yesterday to check out the Northern California Fashion Show, to see if we would like to have a booth there for my designs....we learned quickly not a good idea!!

But I did make a decision, I am going to do the San Francisco International Show, once again. We did it last February, this coming year it is in January. Lots to do and focus on so I need to get creating!!

One of the best ways to find inspiration is in learning a new skill, on my list(long list) of things I want to do!!!

Hope the summer has treated you well, here comes fall!!

Appeal

2010-07-20T18:49:00.001-07:00

There are things that we come across in our lives that appeal to each of us. Some are visual, some auditory and others based on smell or reminiscent of past experiences. My appeal to jewelry and the pieces I create come from all of these for me. When life has misguided me or I have become lost it is hard for me to draw from these various areas.

This piece comes from my desire to find something pleasant to focus on. To me if feels vintage and rich (and I am not talking about money). I hope that you will take a few minutes to enjoy this necklace made with gold filled wire, sterling silver wire and aquamarine stones.

Pieces of Jewelry

2010-05-30T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hello....what do you do when things beyond your control keep happening? How do you deal with it? What do you focus on?

These are all things that I have been forced to think about lately. More like in the last year. It is funny how you think life is going one way, and then boom, it takes this unbelieveable turn. It is for the better? Is it for the worse?

Who knows. I don't. But I am trying to find direction. In something. Some days easier than others. Some days I feel like there was an explosion in my heart and in my head. I am fortunate, I have lots of good friends to get me through those crazy days.

I have friends who bring me laughter, who bring me joy and who allow me to just be me. Not everyone gets that. Not everyone is fortunate enough to spend days as they are, without question.

Some of my best days are alone. It feels good sometimes to just be stuck with myself....that is funny!!

Well the one thing I am trying to do is refocus on my designs. I have stepped away at random times in the last year, but in the upcoming year I have great plans. I plan to move forward with the pieces that I am passionate about, regardless of what others are inclined to like. I plan to make plans to do the New York show. I want to do that so much!! I am going to go to school, yes, the self taught girl is going to go to be schooled. I am so excited about that!! I have wanted it for years, and I just kept putting it on the back burner. No more!!

So, I have this new found faith in putting my goals out there...I mean literally, look where I have put them. On the world wide web....lol. So my challenge to you...put one dream/wish/desire out there...for the world....I promise if you believe in it, it will come one way or another.

Life takes us down a road for a reason...sometimes we just don't know until later.

Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend!!

Is May Here?

2010-05-19T11:26:00.000-07:00

So I have been horribly bad the last month. No posts, no winners to the giveaway and no giveaway for May. Well life has happened, things have changed and people have to. Myself included. So I will announce the March giveaway winner, but we will not be doing anymore giveaways, I am sorry to say.

As for the jewelry world, KKPW Designs (that would be me) will be on Good Day Sacramento next week, I believe May 25th at 6am to be exact. I am very excited about that. We have lots to prepare for including making my studio area presentable. At this point it is so far from that. But I will accomplish my goal!!!

Hope all are doing well in blogging world!! I will announce the March winner shortly, and yes I will post it!!

KKPW Jewelry Designs

2010-03-18T17:21:00.000-07:00

We did it!! We did it!! We finally finished our new web page. I had no idea that I could do it on my own. I thought, you must pay someone if you don't know how to write HTML....well guess what I thought Wrong. Several years ago I paid a company to do www.kkpwdesigns.com since then I have been unhappy with the look, the length of time to get updates done, and just the overall service. So with a challenge from my husband and a push from the ladies of Me & D I found a service already in existence where you can do your own site but with there assistance, only you don't have to ask for the help they have it all there. It is wix.com....awesome site!! So now you can visit us at www.kkpwjewelrydesigns.com let me know what you think, do you like it better than the other? I do!! But I want to hear from you....so take a look and leave a comment.....boy am I happy about this!!

March Giveaway

2010-03-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

Happy March!! How February flew by. It was a good month, so much happened, good and renewed, I am thankful for that. So I feel good and I am going to pass that on to my readers.

This month's giveaway is blue pearls and 14kt gold filled chain and wire. It is delicate but can be layer or worn alone. I love it!!

If you have any questions please let me know. To enter see the post about the rules on the left hand side. Don't forget to log into our regular site and create an account, www.kkpwdesigns.com.

March is going to be a good month, the sun will come out, the flowers will start to bloom and Spring will be here shortly!!! Have a great month!!

February Giveaway

2010-02-15T14:03:00.000-08:00

I am so slow!! This months giveaway is similar to the picture featured, but is in sterling silver with 14kt gold filled wire wrapped with a single pink tourmaline. Fun and pretty. Ring size is about a 6 and a half. So read the rules and sign up if you would like to win. Have a nice and relaxing Feburary!!

Just me

2010-02-13T18:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, so it has been a crazy week, I went to Tucson, AZ to buy all my wonderful stones for the year, yes the year. I flew in on two flights from Sacramento, spent the whole day running ( I know what I want) and then flew home that night (yes 2 flights back). Got up the next morning and met up with a friend who helped me go to SF and get ready for the show. It was amazing. I learned so much, met so many amazing people and had some great orders from some great stores/boutiques. We got an amazing store in New Jersey and tons of new places in Cali. I had a blast, but can you say tired, with much work to do, and follow up. Not so good at that.

Not to mention I still haven't shipped January's winner nor have I put up February's giveaway, so lame!! Ok, I promise by Monday to have done the posting for February and by early next week to ship to Ghainsom. Sorry Ghainsom!!!

Well hope everyone has a rockin Valentine's Day...I will, I am with my honey!!! Happy Heart Hunting!!!

January 2010 Winner...For Real!!

2010-02-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

Congratulations lin3arossa who won the turquoise and sterling silver bracelet!! We hope she enjoys her piece of wonderful jewelry. Our next giveaway will be posted shortly!!

Congrats lin3arossa!!!

January 2010 Winner.......

2010-02-01T17:22:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I don't know yet, but I will shortly. We have our biggest group thus far, thanks to a great blogger, Handmade Giveaways, who found us and passed our blog on!! We picked up two new stores this last month, Pure Bliss in San Diego, a hot little boutique with all the current styles and trends, very San Diego and we picked up Artist Exchange in San Francisco. If you need a gift, this is where you go. They have work from local artists and when I say artist, I mean it. They have paintings, jewelry, sculptures, artistic bowls and plates, and the owner, Scott, and Catherine, the manager, are unbelieveably nice!!

Ok, so I promise to pull the name by Wednesday, post it and it will have to ship after the 10th. We will be at the San Francisco International Gift Show starting this coming Saturday for four days, and on Thursday I take my annual trip to Tucson to find fabulous stones for my designs....oh so excited!!!!

Have a wonderful February, oh and if you haven't signed up for our monthly newsletter, email me at kkpwdesigns@hotmail.com and you will receive our Coupon codes as well!!

January 2010

2010-01-24T12:07:00.000-08:00

So I was committed to making this year better.....sound mind, body and soul. So far a lot is going "better" if you will. I started meditating, not just going into my head, but taking some silence, LOVE IT!! I got into a great store in San Diego called Pure Bliss, the owners are wonderfully delightful and the store is quite cute!! Current trends with all the things you want to keep!!

Today I am off to San Francisco in hopes of gaining another store, Artist-Exchange. I little different from what I normally go for, but we will see. Wish me luck!!

Next up to making the year better, finishing pieces for the San Francisco show. Two weeks and counting....where has time gone?

San Francisco International Gift Show

2010-01-08T16:30:00.000-08:00

I am preparing for the show in February, and I am trying to put pieces together for the show, but you know when you must do something it makes it even harder to do it. So I go home everyday with every intention of working on a piece, and then guess what, the cats need attention, dinner needs to be cooked, I got a new magazine in the mail, the phone rings, my husband is home, we go for a walk, we talk, we do anything other than make jewelry......now what do they call that???

PROCRASTINATION....what is a girl to do!!

January Giveaway

2010-01-03T13:04:00.000-08:00

Here it is, January's giveaway. I am on this blue kick, I just repainted our whole living room in light blue with brown accents and a little green as well. I love it, but this bracelet goes right along with my theme for the year. Relaxed and soft!! So sign in, leave a comment and you can enter to win the bracelet....turquoise and sterling silver relaxed and soft bracelet of course!!!

Blog

2010-01-02T19:10:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder if anyone is reading your blog? I do. All the time, I don't even think my own husband reads my blog. Maybe I need to add some new stuff to it. Ok, let's see, what is exciting.....

I am currently watching college bowl games, so not exciting, but enjoyable (at least from my perspective). I just finished the new "W" magazine, it was good, Jennifer Gardner is so cute and entertaining at the same time. There was a great article on a Taiwanese woman who went to school in NY and is 35 and her jewelry designs are amazing!!

Finished buying supplies for the San Francisco Gift Show, that is good. Oh and I had a great conversation with a few friends the other night who never enter the monthly giveaway, what is up with that. They promised they would from now on....I guess I should actually put up January's new piece!!!

December Winner!!

2010-01-01T15:50:00.000-08:00

Jennifer at cspmom is our winner for december. She will receive these delightful hoop earrings and we hope she loves them!! Don't forget to enter our January giveaway, we should have the design available within the next few days.

Happy 2010!!

2010-01-01T13:30:00.000-08:00

I have been looking forward to this day!! 1/1/2010...I never thought it would come. 2009 was such a hard year, a learning year, and unfortunately a year of sorrow for me. The loss of my father was by far the hardest thing I have ever dealt with. I miss him every day, but 2009 became a horrible year as soon as he was gone!!

With the new year, comes new beginnings, including my resolutions....1. to be a better wife 2. to be a better counselor (my full time job) and 3. to actually work at my jewelry business. Now my husband says that number 1 and 2 are a waste of time b/c I already do a good job there, that I really should focus on number 3. Well I am going to focus on all of them, maybe at different focus levels though.

So for the new year, we have new designs as always, but we have a new venture. We are going to be at the San Francisco International Gift Show, Feb 6 - 9 Booth #939, now I am not going to say that I am not frightened by what may or may not happen. But I will say, I have so much to do, including getting going on creating some inventory. My goal.....to get 3 boutique stores in San Francisco....how I will do that...by showing my delightful, one of a kind designs. Mission accomplished? We will see.

Any suggestions out there would be oh so helpful......but if not, I will figure it out.

December Giveaway winner will be announced shortly, and yes, we will still do a giveaway in January, so stay tuned. And if you haven't noticed, we are no longer selling on our website. You will need to visit www.1000markets.com and search "KKPW Designs" to purchase my designs. I am in the cost effective mode, or you can always contact me directly on our site through "Contact Us"....well tata for now...Wish me luck and Happy New Year!!

New Year!!

2009-12-26T20:11:00.000-08:00

So I updated our blog....yeah I love the new look, but what I should have been doing all along is reinventing it. Let me know what you think. Does it need more color? More design, or should I just focus on the jewelry? I am so excited for something new. I am determined that 2010 is going to be a great year, and with that I am making some business changes. We will no longer have a shopping cart on our website. We are now going to post our designs on our site but you will need to purchase them through www.1000markets.com which is owned by amazon. It is a great site. We are changing our blog and just making it sleeker and I have updated Etsy.....who knew time at home could be so productive!!

Next redo the living room, new paint, new furniture arrangement!!! I love the new year!! Oh and of course new designs coming!!!

KKPW Designs November Winner!!

2009-12-04T16:47:00.000-08:00

Jennifer57 is our winner!! Yea, she wins the sterling silver leaf imprint hoop earrings from November. Don't forget to enter for December's giveaway!!

KKPW Designs Golden Holidays!!

2009-11-30T20:45:00.000-08:00

Well our winner for November has not been decided yet, however, our giveaway has.....gold filled danty and perfect hoops. About 1 inch in diameter, simple and perfect, what more can you ask for. To enter our free giveaway see the directions located on the right of our blog. Also be sure to come to Parkside Pharmacy from 12 to 4 on December 4th off of Del Rio across from the Sacramento Zoo for the Holiday Bazaar with raffles, and kids experiences and great gift buying!!!

What else is new with us, we are doing the San Francisco International Gift Show in February so we are trying to work on our new designs, inventory and wonderful display, which I might add may be the most difficult part!!!

See some of our new designs at www.1000markets.com/wwwkkpwdesigns also.....great site, with unique artists creations!!

WE HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT HOLIDAY SEASON!!

KKPW Designs at Parkside Pharmacy

2009-11-30T15:28:00.000-08:00

Come to Parkside Pharmacy Holiday Extravaganza, Saturday Dec 5th from 10am to 4pm at 4404 Del Rio Rd, right across from the Sacramento Zoo, to enjoy holiday cheer including raffles, givea-a-ways, Balloons, Storybook Readings and Face Painting. Parkside Pharmacy is a great boutique with one of a kind holiday gifts....you must come. We hope to see you there!!!

KKPW Designs November Giveaway

2009-11-08T14:46:00.000-08:00

Ok, so what can you say, our October winner was also our September winner, but that is what happens when so few take advantage of our giveaways. She is excited though!!!

This month's giveaway is our sterling silver leaf imprinted hoops with amazonite wire wrapped. Cute and sweet and perfect for the holidays!!

October Giveaway

2009-10-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

We were a little slow this month on getting out our October Giveaway, but it is here. Gold filled, wire wrapped and pink tourmaline ring, fun and complimentoary to last months bangle bracelet. Great as stackables, but for this giveaway we will be giving away one ring.

October 24th come by the Fountains in Roseville for a KKPW Designs Trunk Show at Serendipity Boutique. And October 22nd check out KKPW Designs at an evening event at Uptown Girl in El Dorado Hills.

Hope your October is festive!!!

September Winner!!! October Events!!

2009-10-01T20:10:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Jennifer57 who just won a gold filled and tourmaline bangle from our September giveaway!! We hope she enjoys it!!

This October see KKPW Designs at Rominger West Winery on October 11th from 12 to 5, they are hosting a fall event with plenty of vendors, food and wine. October 24th you can visit Serendipity at the Roseville Fountains for a KKPW Designs Trunk Show. Come see our one of a kind designs and be the first to try some of our new pieces.

October's Giveaway will be posted shortly. Stay tuned and sign up to enter when it is posted next!! Happy October!!!

August Winner!! September Giveaway!!

2009-09-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Jennifer who won the August Free Giveaway, I must say though with only two sign ups, her odds were pretty good!! Directions on how to sign up are posted on the right hand side, just follow the directions and you can enter every month!! This month's giveaway is....a gold filled bangle bracelet wrapped in tourmaline stones. These bangles are my favorite, so don't miss out!!!!
Check out our article on Runningwithheels.com this month, also be sure to check out styleforfree.com to enter a ton of different giveaways, including one for KKPW Designs!!!

Hope you have a great September!!

Parkside Pharmacy

2009-08-18T16:35:00.001-07:00

So for those of you Sacramentans who are looking for a little something different, have you been to the Parkside Pharmacy? It is a great new place that has just gone up next to La Bou on Del Rio in William Land Park. If you haven't seen a pharmacy that makes you want to shop, you will now....Parkside has great gifts, great jewelry (yes, ours also) and they have a esthetician who is readily available not just to do treatments but she actually cares about what you put on your face and what you do to your skin. They have lotions, soaps, great cards, magazines (yes fashion magazines) and best of all, the women who work there are delightful and entertaining. A Pharmacy that is really a BOUTIQUE.....what will they come up with next...I can't wait!!!!

Hot August Giveaway

2009-08-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

Lil Mom was last months winner of our free giveaway, she walked away with the sterling silver, smoky quartz and labradorite faceted stone dangle earrings. Now we hope you don't miss out on joining our August giveaway. To win do the following:

1. Visit http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ , click on "LogIn" and create an account

2. Leave a comment on that months blog, posted off of http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ , about your favorite KKPW Design by clicking on "Comment" and signing in, with your name which is the same name you used to create an account at http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ .

3. If you purchase something your name will be submitted twice for the drawing. Each month's giveaway will be different and will vary depending on pieces available. The winner will be posted on the blog for that month and will be emailed at the email left on the account created. For any questions or comments about the drawing please contact us at knickknack1@hotmail.com.

We hope you will enjoy this months giveaway and stay tuned for Hot August Updates!!!

KKPW Designs July Free Giveaway

2009-07-02T18:48:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!

Smoky Quartz and Labradorite faceted stones dangling from sterling silver are our July Giveaway. See below for how to enter and don't forget to leave a comment on our blog.

Also, for all you visitors, use COUPON code "4th of July" for this months 15% off discount. We don't do this often, so take advantage of it!!!

Good Giveaways!!

KKPW Designs June Winner

2009-07-02T08:08:00.001-07:00

June has come and gone...4th of July is here....with so much activity and so much to celebrate we are excited to announce our June winner......Jennifer Lipscomb....you have won the Gold Filled Green Amethyst Earrings.

July's Giveaway will be posted soon. Remember to do the following to enter:

1. Visit http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ , click on "LogIn" and create an account

2. Leave a comment on that months blog, posted off of http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ , about your favorite KKPW Design by clicking on "Comment" and signing in, with your name which is the same name you used to create an account at http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ .

3. If you purchase something your name will be submitted twice for the drawing. Each month's giveaway will be different and will vary depending on pieces available. The winner will be posted on the blog for that month and will be emailed at the email left on the account created. For any questions or comments about the drawing please contact us at knickknack1@hotmail.com.

Come back for July's Giveaway in just a few days...and remember to tell your friends.

KKPW Designs May Winner!!!

2009-06-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Deborah...you are the winner of May's Giveaway the fabulous moonstone drop earrings!! We will get those out to you asap. Hope you love them!! June's giveaway will be out shortly...remember you can enter every month, just leave a comment and as long as you have created an account on www.kkpwdesigns.com you are ready to role!!!

Next up..........Green Goddess Facted Amethyst Earrings with Gold filled wire....leave your comment about them, and if you are new, see below for directions on how you can enter our free drawing every month!!!

May Giveaway

2009-05-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Well I must say, that April's giveaway definitely started slow. We only had 3 people sign in to win, but that just leaves lots of room to have more this month. Our giveaways are free, you just need to follow the directions, and here they are:

Beginning in April, and each following month, KKPW Designs will be giving away one piece of original jewelry. Interested individuals will need to:
1. Visit http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ , click on "LogIn" and create an account
2. Leave a comment on that months blog, posted off of www.kkpwdesigns.com , about your favorite KKPW Design by clicking on "Comment" and signing in, with your name which is the same name you used to create an account at http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ .

If you purchase something your name will be submitted twice for the drawing. Each month's giveaway will be different and will vary depending on pieces available. The winner will be posted on the blog for that month and will be emailed at the email left on the account created. For any questions or comments about the drawing please contact us at knickknack1@hotmail.com.

Back to other stuff, we had our first Trunk Show this last weekend, it was fun, but with the rain came very few people out shopping, but I got to know the gals at Serendipity Boutique really well and I must say, they are a fun group!! I also have to admit, I did a little shopping. But how can you not shop there????? We are now on Twitter, Facebook and of course our MySpace site as well.

Enjoy May's Giveaway and don't forget to tell a friend.

April Giveaway Winner!!!

2009-05-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

So we had our first giveaway and although we only had 3, yes 3, people sign in to participate, we do have 1, yes 1, winner!!! And it is.....................................Val!!!! Val you are the winner, Kevin drew your name and announced it today, May 1st!!!! Our May Giveaway will be posted within the next few days, so make sure to follow the directions below and participate, don't we all love free things!!!!
May Giveaway Soon!!!

KKPW Designs at Serendipity

2009-04-25T18:03:00.000-07:00

Our first ever trunk shows this coming month, May 1st and 2nd we have 2 shows. The first is at Serendipity at the Fountains in Roseville, the second downtown at Serendipity on H Street. We are so excited!! Still waiting for more people to sign up for our FREE GIVEAWAY, if you haven't yet see the directions below to enter. Each month a new piece!!! If you haven't been to Uptown Girl in El Dorado Hills yet, you must go, the newest clothing at affordable prices and the owner, Brie, is great!!! Oh and guess who reopened, midtown's own M.E. Boutique, check it out on J Street now. They are bigger and better!!!

KKPW Designs & April Giveaway

2009-03-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

April is here, so quickly. The month of February left us with much loss, my father passed away. He was and is a great man and will be missed so much. But my dad was a believer and always kept moving forward even in toughest of times. With that in mind, we are moving forward to set out to do what we were planning to do in the month of March.

Our first giveaway. Please read our post below to see how you can qualify to enter our giveaway, make sure to follow all the directions and you could win this April's giveaway. Good luck!

"Do it! Move it! Make it happen! No one ever sat their way to success." Not my fathers words, but so much a part of what he believed. With all my heart.

KKPW Designs Giveaway

2009-02-18T16:16:00.001-08:00

Beginning in April, and each following month, KKPW Designs will be giving away one piece of original jewelry. Interested individuals will need to:

1. Visit http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/ create an account
2. Leave a comment on that months blog about your favorite KKPW Design, with your name which is the same name you used to create an account at http://www.kkpwdesigns.com/
3. If you purchase something your name will be submitted twice for the drawing

Each months giveaway will be different and will vary depending on pieces available. The winner will be posted on the blog for that month and will be emailed at the email left on the account created. For any questions or comments about the drawing please contact us at knickknack1@hotmail.com.

We hope you find this fun and enjoyable!!!

KKPW Designs and Tucson, Arizona

2009-02-10T11:31:00.001-08:00

Yes we just got back from Tucson, Arizona where the largest gem show is offered once a year....don't think that we didn't find some of the most amazing stones including....opals, sapphires, amethyst, rubies, tourmaline, spinel, pearls and so much more....the weather was great and our hotel was wonderful, beautiful with the best food you have ever had. We spend 2 full days walking the show, and yes buying. There were so many great stones to see and oooo and ahhh at, some we could definitely invest in and some that we just wanted to look at and dream of using in our designs. Overall though, I give the trip an A+, already planning for next year, now that is exciting!! Look for some great new designs using our great new finds real soon!!!
Also, if you haven't checked out Stringing Magazine, go to http://www.stringingmagazine.com/contributors.asp to see KKPW Designs as a contributor with the magazine coming out on the news stand this month. More to come as always!!!

Happy New Year from KKPW Designs

2009-01-06T18:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! Wow, where did the time go....2008 just blew by with all the ups and downs that a year can bring. I am a firm believer that 2009 is going to be a great year and things are going to start looking up. We finished 2008 by attending Rominger West Winery's Open House on December 20th, it was a great time, with music, wine tasting and lots of yummies! This coming year brings new articles in magazines, new boutiques and stores to check in with and yes my favorite is coming!!! TUCSON GEM SHOW! It is here and I am bursting with excitement, great gems, stones, faceted, cut, cabachons and findings are waiting to be purchased. In addition we have some new great designs, that I have put online yet, but will be up within the next week!! So much fun and so much to do!! Oh and for readers.....when you purchase something this month from www.kkpwdesigns.com and use the COUPON code "New Year" upon check out, you get 15% off your entire purchase. My new year gift to you!!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

KKPW Designs at Rominger West Winery

2008-12-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

Come see us at Rominger West Winery in Davis, CA on December 20th from 12pm to 5pm. There will be vendors, wine tasting and hors de voures. Our designs will be perfect for holiday gift giving as well as affordable. Unique, one of a kind jewelry that will not disappoint. Not to mention the wine is really great!!! Rominger West Winery puts on a spectacular event....so join us and don't miss out on a once in a great while opportunity. See you there!!!

KKPW Design

2008-12-07T17:00:00.000-08:00

With the month of December upon us, there are dinners to plan, parties to attend, people to visit with and holiday cards to be sent. Friends to catch up with, family to talk to, and as always designs to be created. If you haven't visited us lately, www.kkpwdesigns.com, you should, we have some great new items for you to use as gifts. We are charm bracelets, significant pieces and simple quality, affordable gift items. We hoep to do one more show before the end of the 2008 year....and then start of 2009 with a bang by attending the Tucson Bead Show. This will be our 3rd year attending, and to be honest, it is something that I plan for the moment I am leaving the show. It is so exciting, so overwhelming and of course so inspiring. So what does this mean for you....new designs, new creations and new pieces for you to enjoy. We hope you visit us soon.....Happy Holidays.

KKPW Designs Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T13:51:00.001-08:00

So I was thinking of all the things that we have to be thankful for this year. So many things and where to begin to list them is difficult. We are of course thankful for our family and friends. Although we may not be with all of them, we are very greatful!! This year we have met so many new and exciting people that have helped KKPW Designs, there is Dina of Stellarocco, who has managed to share so much business information with me that I am amazed, Tori of Little Fish Boutique and Misty of RAG, 2 boutiques who have welcomed us into San Francisco, Laine of Morgan Lain, Barbara of Serendipity, Razieh of Nat Boutique, Barby of Barby K Boutique, then there is Adrienne Bankert of KCRA 3 who has worn our designs on the news, the girls of www.twinsoup.com and Alyse of www.Sporkfashion.com and so many more. It really takes a group of people to make a small business work. There are so many others that we haven't mentioned but without them, well, thanksgiving just wouldn't be as thankful!! Thank you!!!

KKPW Designs & Sporkfashion

2008-11-20T20:47:00.001-08:00

Every so often we come across someone who wants to help out one of the causes that we feel so strongly about. Most recently Alyse of www.sporkfashion.com has done a feature on our "Rose is a Rose" pendant and how the design came about, but most importantly that it supports the work of the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center. We appreciate the time and energy she put into the feature. The work to end domestic violence and sexual assault comes from all of us....thanks Alyse for helping!!!

KKPW Designs and San Francisco

2008-11-15T17:11:00.000-08:00

Yes.....we have finally expanded and spread our wings to the out areas. We were recently picked up by two, yes two, fabulous little boutiques. One called Little Fish Boutique and the other RAG Co-Op both in San Francisco. Great stores that bring one of a kind, and unique items to everyone. If you are in the San Francisco area, be sure to drop in to both stores. You would be disappointed if you missed them!! Next on our list.....world domination!! :) Til next time!!

KKPW Designs on My 58

2008-10-22T14:26:00.000-07:00

See KKPW Designs and SADVC on My 58 this coming Friday at 7:20am Sacramento, California. We will be talking about domestic violence awareness and KKPW Designs support to end domestic violence. Tune in!!

KKPW Designs in San Francisco for Capsule Festival

2008-10-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

Hello out there....to all my new SF friends that I was fortunate to make today. Thanks to Scott and Harris for allowing me to join the Capsule Festival on such short notice. It was a lively event with food, music, art and lots of people. I met many wonderful individuals and learned so much about each one of them. Including the women who just got married on Friday, and the ladies who help me pick up my display after the wind knocked it over, as well as the nice "indecisive" shopper as she called herself, but then immediately went home and placed an order with me. It really was a good time. I must say working a show alone makes for quite an interesting day. If it weren't for the helpful eye of SF's finest, I would never have made it to the bathroom. Other than that though, we survived. All in all, it was a good day...SF was cold, as it always is, but it was still a lot of fun!! Next up....KKPW Designs and the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center will be on KRCA News 3 this coming Friday, October 24th around 7:30 am. Don't forget to check us out!!!

KKPW Designs and Octoberfest

2008-10-05T12:57:00.001-07:00

I love October, the fall of the leaves, the racking of the leaves, the playing in the leaves, the first rain, the smell of the first rain...so much fun!!! I have felt the need to clean things out and start fresh including my design space. Of course, I must admit, it was with urge from my wonderful husband......he is always trying to get me to tidy up. I don't blame him, when I start designing, I can't stop and one thing leads to the next and the next....and boom it looks like an explosion occurred. So with my new clean area, I hope to find more space in my designs. We are looking forward to an upcoming article in twinsoup.com and sporkfashion.com, as well as potentially finding a couple more stores to work with. Thanks to Dina of Stellarocco, I have learned so much more, and have more to work with. She is a dynamic, small business owner who does great things with her clothing line as well as by giving back to the community.

Well as always we hope you visit us at www.kkpwdesigns.com HAPPY FALL!!!

KKPW Designs in September

2008-09-21T19:19:00.001-07:00

September is here and with so much to figure out, the month is almost over. We are planning on going to the Golden Gate Accessory Show in January, if you are in San Mateo during that time, stop by our booth. We are looking at a Spring feature in a magazine, shortly we will be on twinsoup.com and Sporkfashion.com. There is so much to learn about the business of getting our designs out....who knew. We would love suggestions if you have any!! More to come as always!!

KKPW Design in LA

2008-08-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

Yes we went to LA, my friend Brenda and I did, and because of Jennifer at ME Boutique we met up with Chris Meyers of Chris Meyers Showroom as well as a nice Sales Rep who was willing to talk with us about the process of being in a showroom. I learned so much, including that being in a showroom was not the route for me, at least not right now. We have decided to focus on doing an accessories show to look for boutique/store owners and we will continue to meet with store owners to increase being stored. It is an amazing process, and everyone we met was so nice and welcoming. Brenda taught me oh so much as well, she understands the wholesale world far more than I did going into LA. However, I have a much better understanding.
Next up we will look for more stores and hopefully you will see us in San Francisco or Golden Gate Accessory Show soon.
Life is a learning process!!

KKPW Designs & Poshmama.com

2008-08-08T18:32:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Susan of Capitola Girl Jewelry Network we now have a great article on poshmama.com, a fun women's only website all about women and what is interesting to women. From children to fabulous jewelry....of course I include us in that. They also do weekly give aways, one of our designs is this weeks give away. If you haven't visited either of the above sites mentioned, be so to do so soon! They are hot!!!

KKPW Designs at Rominger West Winery in Davis

2008-07-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday we were at Rominger West Winery in Davis, CA as a vendor for just one of their Saturday open house wine tasting. We had a great time and met many wonderful people. Mark West one of the owners of Rominger West Winery was a great host and quite gracious. Our designs were a hit, which was an added bonus!!

If you are ever in the Davis, California area, make sure to drop by Rominger West Winery.

KKPW Designs

2008-07-11T16:29:00.001-07:00

Happy July 11th!!

Just a quick update on what KKPW Designs is up to...come by and see us on July 26th from 12 to 5 at Rominger West Winery in Davis, CA. And visit Morgan Laine in Sacramento, CA to see more new designs, just recently added to the fabulous boutique. Owner, Laine Lakata, has done a fabulous job and bringing in original clothing designs and making her boutique a place you want to shop at. I am so happy that we are now a part of her place. To come.....we are looking to join Sunshine Creations boutique in Folsom, CA within the next month.

Don't forget to visit us at www.kkpwdesigns.com for new designs, updated information on where we are at, and to check out our charity design.

KKPW Designs and the Big Bang

2008-07-02T17:44:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!!!

It is hard to believe that half of the year is already over, that it is time for bathsuits and swimming pool....I can't believe how quick it all goes!!!
If you haven't visited us at www.kkpwdesigns.com recently, you must do so......this month we are offering 15% coupon at time of checkout on all purchases.....just use coupon "4th of July" upon checkout.
On the 26th of July, visit us at Rominger West Winery in Davis, where we will by partaking in their open house festivities....should be fun....there is wine!!
And keep your eyes open for KKPW Designs in a few more boutiques....we are hoping to be housed in 2 more boutiques within the next month or so. Of course we will let you know.
If you haven't already read our article on www.seeprettythings.com ....it was fun and fabulous!! If you haven't seen our article on www.ultimatepinkonline.com ....do that when you get a chance.
Next up......who knows.....the world is our oyster!!!

KKPW Designs Abroad

2008-06-17T19:54:00.001-07:00

We are back....and oh did we have a wonderful time in Germany and Ireland. There aren't many words to explain just how breathtaking, lush, green and enormous the beauty is abroad. Germany has many rolling hills and vineyards, great food and yes, great wine, of course beer as well. And Ireland, the gardens are amazing, the castles unique and the architecture overwhelming. We had such a great time, and came back inspired. So look for new and upcoming designs soon......although we loved being abroad, we loved coming home!!!

KKPW Design Abroad

2008-05-31T18:31:00.000-07:00

Yes we are going....just for a little while to Germany and Ireland!! I can't wait....the city, the countryside, the castles, the beer....so fun and so much to see...I can only imagine what new ideas for designs and creations I will come back with. I know I will be inspired, how can you not. In the meantime, we believe we just got picked up by another store, we will announce when we return from...yes...Ireland and Germany. But things are always looking good.....as they should...stick with us, and when we return....yes, from Ireland and Germany....we will post how our trip was, and once I have some new creations those will go up...and of course the new store we are in will definitely be posted!!! Tata for now.

KKPW Design

2008-05-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

Here it is the end of May and so much to do.....we have officially entered 2 boutiques, we were in a magazine this month, as well as an online magazine, and will be in 2 online magazines beginning June, as well as a shopping guide beginning June. We are considering doing the San Francisco Gift Show, but that may have to wait till next year. We have several new designs online and I am so excited about each of them. We have some chunky designs, which are fun, and then of course our more organic designs, with leaf imprints and the perfect stones to compliment. You have to check out the crocheted designs, it is a new twist on a old skill. Well what is in store next we do not know....but I do know it will be great!! Til next time!!

KKPW Designs & Ultimatepinkonline.com

2008-05-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

If you have never visited www.ultimatepinkonline.com you should!! It is this great website from out of southern California that focuses on women in business. They do wonders for up and coming designers, arts, business owners and so many more women. They work to give individuals a chance at an outlet as well as a place to be featured. Most importantly they have great tips and cover the whole spectrum!! If you haven't checked it out....your missing out!!!

KKPW and Wire Jewelry Magazine

2008-05-09T07:15:00.001-07:00

If you haven't seen the latest Wire Jewelry Magazine, pick one up next time you are at Borders and take a look at the gallery of designs and you will see one of our designs (under Shannon Culmo), tell me what you think. It was actually sold quite some time ago to a Rockette in New York City, she loved it.

If you haven't visited in a while, see below for some new designs, and don't forget to visit the site, SADVC benefit piece will be up shortly.

KKPW Designs in May

2008-05-04T16:54:00.001-07:00

Happy May!!KKPW Designs has lots of new designs and exciting news. This month you can catch us in Wire Jewelry Magazine, we have just been added to Barby K Boutique downtown on L Street, and we have an ad coming out in Ultimate Pink Magazine. If you have visited our site lately, www.kkpwdesigns.com, you should, you can see our blog and most recently you can learn about the nonprofit we are working with to provide proceeds to. With May comes Mother's Day, so Happy Mother's Day to all you mothers out there!! As always we have attached photos of recent designs and would love for you to forward this to as many friends and family as you would like!!Sincerely,Shannon CulmoDesigner/Co-Ownerwww.kkpwdesigns.com
- Shannon

KKPW Design About Town

2008-04-30T10:39:00.000-07:00

If you live in Sacramento or on your way, be sure to stop by M.E. Boutique on 33rd and Folsom, Jennifer has great clothing, and yes some of my designs. Next up with be Barby's place on K Street, this is a new venture for us, but we are so excited, so stop by her funky and fun place on K and 24th to see her clothing and yes, our designs. You can always have dessert afterwards at Rick's Dessert!!!

Be sure to check out Wire Jewelry Magazine this month to see our design, and also N.E.E.T Magazine for a current add. Next up is Ultimate Pink Magazine, a great add designed by Brittney and hopefully a nice article about KKPW Designs in the future.

KKPW Designs & Sacramento Fashion Week

2008-04-27T14:09:00.000-07:00

Friday night was the Sacramento Fashion Show.....we were a vendor there and it was great!! We made a great connection with Charlene of Ultimate Pink, it is an online magazine that supports female business owners. We also met Mark, the owner of a local Davis Winery and had a great conversation about hosting a wine and jewelry party at his winery. And last but not least, we met Adrienne Bankert of KCRA 3 and she loved our designs which we were so very excited about!!! So it was a blast, the designers did a great job on the clothing as well. So in the fall, come see us there, we will do it again!!

KKPW Display Setup

2008-04-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

I got the pieces from Brenda to create the display for Friday night, and I love them. She gave me some modern vases, tall, slender, black and clear, with some rocks and other pieces to add as accents. I think it will go well!! I am going to work on putting it together tonight so that it is aesthetically pleasing.
Pictures to follow!!

KKPW Designs & Sacramento Fashion Week

2008-04-20T14:01:00.000-07:00

So I believe I have come up with the perfect setup for Sacramento Fashion Show. My friend, Brenda, own's the Kraft Factory, and she has pulled some great vases together that can be vertical or horizontal, I can place rice or stones, or even beans in them and use them as the core of the table. I am going to place pieces within the vases and around them by color. The table cloth will be black and I have my normal black cases that I have filled with rice to use as displays as well.

I am looking forward to putting all the pieces together. Wish me luck!!

Shannon

KKPW Display Setup

2008-04-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

We have setup manytables, and some have been good and some have been iffy, and now my mission is to find the perfect table display for our designs, at least the one I think is perfect for this week. Is it out there? I have looked for ideas, suggestions, pictures, what others are doing, let me tell you, there isn't much to be found.

Any ideas? I would love to hear them!!!!

KKPW Designs Blog Award

2008-04-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

Yeah.....we received a blog award, isn't that exciting....go to http://www.capitolagirl.com/2008/04/yay-blogging-award.html to read about our award. Now I just have to find 5 individuals to pass it on to. That will be a chore as I am still figuring out this whole blog network. I have met some pretty amazing jewelry design individuals and have made some great connections through blogging. So it will continue.

Well I am off to get ready for next weeks Sacramento Fashion Show....you will hear about it.

Saturday with KKPW Designs

2008-04-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

So last night we did a boutique show at the local M.E. Boutique, it was fun and well attended by a very large group of friends. One of the woman's husbands bid on the evening at M.E. Boutique at an auction and it was catered with food and wine and the woman invited her friends and they were able to laugh, shop, eat and drink all together. It was quite a blast. I met quite a few people myself and learned quite a bit from one person in particular.

Today I am recooperating and creating......can't beat that!!!

KKPW Designs & Sacramento Fashion Week

2008-04-08T15:16:00.000-07:00

KKPW Designs is coming up on another event, the Sacramento Fashion Week will be hosting a fashion show on April 25th from 6 to 9. More information can be found online. If you are there, come by and visit us. See you soon.

KKPW Designs in Search

2008-04-03T07:18:00.001-07:00

Hello,

And welcome to our designs companies search to the next level. We are trying all different avenues, we have created press kits, sent them out, contacted magazine, newspapers directly, we have joined networks, and we have done just about everything but show up on front doors. I know it is a process and things are going well on the day to day elements......if you haven't visited our site, you should, we have a nonprofit we will be selling a piece for shortly. The nonprofit is the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Center, in Yolo County. They provide services to abused women and children, and it is one of the best nonprofits around. I was a board member for many years, and believe strongly in what they do. So within the next month or so, you should be able to visit us at www.kkpwdesigns.com to see the design, and learn more about the nonprofit.

KKPW Designs Celebrates

2008-03-31T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well we are celebrating KKPW Designs all the time, but most recently we are celebrating my birthday....yes it is a fun month for me, the month of April. I love that my friends and family allow me to make the month about me.....it may actually drive them crazy...but so be it.

In celebration of me..... we are offering 15% off of all our designs at www.kkpwdesings.com, yes 15% when you check out...so just type in "CELEBRATE" under the coupon box while you are checking out and you will receive 15%. Let your friends and family know, we don't do this often.

Happy Birthday to me and enjoy my present to you!!!

KKPW Design

2008-03-26T14:56:00.001-07:00

We are looking for different ways to advertise and it isn't easy. We get such good feedback from people who do visit our site, and we would love to take that to the next level. It can be overwhelming at times.

KKPW Design Press

2008-03-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

We have been fortunate to have 2 pieces chosen for Wire Jewelry Magazine, the next will be out in May 2008. In February we were featured by www.twinsoup.com and in the upcoming month we will be featured on www.fashionsac.com. Currently I have been chosen as one of 10 designers to feature on www.fashion-networks.com, which is really fun and a great way to connect.
We are always looking for ways to work with others and pursue advertising and marketing. We have done several open shows and those have also been a great success!!!

Designs below

2008-03-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

Be sure to check out just some of our designs below.

2008-03-25T11:22:00.000-07:00

KKPW Designs came from the love and desire to create unique, inspirational designs, that attract woman due to the affect that the pieces have on an individuals spirit as well as their attire. I love what we do, the inspiration of each piece is very different. Often I start with something in mind and when it is completed, it is something completely different. My designs most often include gemstones, precious and semi-precious: aquamarine, onyx, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, apetite, peridot, citrine, just to name a few. All of our designs are either created with sterling silver or gold filled metals, occassionally I use other precious metals as well. Each of our designs is meant to be affordable and unique, you won't find another one out there. We hope to have you visit us at our online boutique www.kkpwdesigns.com or become a friend on www.myspace.com/kkpwdesigns. I will try to post as often as possible, don't be afraid to comment on our designs as well. We also have recently done custom jewelry designs for brides and their bridesmaids.....visit us at www.kkpwdesigns.com under contact us for more information.

2008-03-25T11:21:00.000-07:00