A Calligrapher's Engagement

After working with brides for more than 5 years now on their wedding invitation calligraphy and place cards, I'm going to get a little personal on my business blog with my own engagement, which happened a day before my birthday - September 21, 2013.

The Proposal

It was a brilliantly gorgeous, blue-sky, almost-fall day. Because I went for the first time last year and loved it, my boyfriend took me apple picking again at Russell's Orchard in Ipswich, MA as an early-birthday date. After the hayride to the orchard and walking through the aisles picking apples, they came to an area of several large, swooping apple trees with branches that created private "rooms". After going inside one of them to make sure he could fit, (my fiance is about 6'5") he sent me back out to pick more apples while he placed the ring in between two apples growing together on a high branch.

My Ring!

He called me back inside to come and look at these 2 apples that were growing together, and I looked up and saw the ring. While I was in a state of shock, he took it out, got down on one knee and said, "I love you more than anything and I want to spend the rest of my life with you - I hope you want to spend the rest of your life with me. Will you marry me?" And I said yes!

The Ring

Everyone always asks if it was a surprise, and did I pick out the ring - yes, it was a surprise, and I love our story. I left the ring design up to him - mostly because I get so overwhelmed looking at all the possibilities, and he really got into it. He wanted a 3 stone, and I just wanted the center to be more prominent so it looked like an engagement ring. I also wanted more sparkle and less metal :) so the side-view of the ring has the diamonds "floating" in the setting, which is the coolest thing I've ever seen. So he did good!

I'm so excited to start this new journey this year, and can't wait to get started on all my own wedding-projects - I've got some great stuff lined up and designs in the works that can't wait to show you guys :)

Navy and Yellow Nautical Baby Shower

Yellow and Navy Nautical Baby Shower Invite, $12 for template

So much has happened since my last few posts! I'll definitely make some updates over the next few weeks, but thought I'd start here. In September, I put together a baby shower for one of my best friends expecting a baby boy. I worked with her mother and one of her friends, and I had a blast int he process!

One of the only themes I had to work with was "baby-preppy" when trying to figure out the decor. Once we secured a Yacht Club for the shower location (both the mommy-to-be and my families have memberships there) I figured you don't get more preppy than nautical - and for a baby boy, let's get away from the powder blue and make the theme "preppy" with navy blue and yellow.

Handmade Baby Boy Shower Banner - Navy, Yellow, and White

The Banner

A lot of this shower involved me just making / designing things because I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for. The first of which was the banner saying, "Welcome baby Carter!" I bought cardstock in alternating yellow and navy patterns, cut into triangle pendants, and printed out the letters on Avery Circle Label templates to stick on. All of them were glued on a satin white ribbon and strung up right when you walked in - and it looked awesome! (I looked pretty hilarious on the floor of my apartment putting these together ;)

Navy Blue and Yellow Diaper Cake

The Diaper Cake

These are actually easier than I thought to make. I bought a cake platter for a base (TJ Maxx had a really cute white one with Gold ribbon accent) then a container of baby powder for the center. I also got rubber bands - both small and x-large - to roll up the diapers, and a preppy navy blue ribbon to wrap around the cake (I was going to hang toys off of it and shit, but the thing would have looked tacky. We were going for a more chic-awesomeness, here :) and some yellow flowers for accents - both from Michael's. 

I used Newborn size diapers, rolled each of them with a small rubber band. Then you layer them in a circle around the baby powder, and secured all of them with the large rubber band (it's helpful if you have another person to help you out - they can hold the diapers in place when you put the band on them). I did a few "layers" around, and built the cake up from there. Then I put the ribbon over the bands, added a few yellow flowers for pop, and topped it off with a little teddy bear. It was adorable :)

The Diaper Station

These were just funny, and I found the idea admittedly on Pinterest. It was basically another excuse to load up my friend with as many diapers as possible, because I know they are definitely something you blow through!

This was also super easy to put together. Found a cute basket - TJ Maxx again - and loaded it up with diapers - think I used size 2 because the Newborn sizes are really tiny to write on.

Late Night Diaper Station: Basket, Instructions, Diapers & Sharpies!

Some late-night diaper ideas :)

The Favors

The favors I made matched the invitation - also something I designed after the scouring the internet and coming up with nothing that worked for me. I designed these cute "Ready to Pop!" baby shower favor tags that I cut up, hole-punched, and tied with navy ribbon to bags of caramel popcorn. It was completely adorable and easy to do!

Ready to Pop baby shower template, $8

"Ready to Pop!" Nautical Baby Favors

The shower was a blast, and I loved putting it together! I decided to make some of the things I've designed available for download at my Etsy shop, in the event you are also in need for something fabulous. All of the files are customizable - I've done a few different variations, both in color and text. Shoot me a convo if you're interested or if you have any questions!

Rune Charm Necklaces

In the 5 years I've maintained this blog, my Rune Necklaces post from 2010 continues to be the most popular post on my site. So I decided to give an update to the post with some fresh new images and feature my latest rune necklaces now available for purchase online at my Ash Tree Designs etsy shop. Read the four available now below, and let me know if you're looking for any specific rune that I haven't posted yet - I'll be happy to get it up for you.

Raido - "Journey" Necklace, $12

Journey Rune Necklace - Raido, $12
Raido is the rune of the journey. Meaning arrival, departure, or reunion, Raido stands for an movement and direction, as well as an overseas adventure. Those who wear this rune carry the knowledge to follow the cycle of life to progress quickly and efficiently. It's time to embrace the hard times knowing that the harder it is now, the easier it will get in the future. It is the perfect gift for someone who has been going through a difficult time, and is a symbolic reminder of their struggle.

Jera - "Success" Necklace, $15

Success Rune Necklace - Jera, $15
In the Runic Alphabet, "Jera" is J or Y: A year, a good harvest. The results of earlier efforts are realized and a time of peace and happiness, fruitful season. It can break through stagnancy. Hopes and expectations of peace and prosperity. The promise of success earned. Life cycle, cyclical pattern of the universe. Everything changes, in its own time. Makes a thoughtful college or graduate school graduation gift.

Othila "Prosperity" Necklace, $15

Prosperity Rune Necklace - Othila, $15
Othila is the rune of prosperity. Meaning home or homeland, hearth, or family, Othila stands for an adventurous nature, culture maturity, adaptability, and personal skill. Those who wear this rune carry the strength of their family with them, as it can represent your spiritual home: very unique and recommended housewarming gift.

Dagaz "Hope" Necklace, $15

Hope Rune Necklace - Dagaz, $15
Lastly, we have Hope. This particular listing is black and gold, but is also available in the silver/black combo and vice versa. In the Runic Alphabet, "Dagaz" is D. Meaning breakthrough, awakening, awareness: daylight clarity as opposed to nighttime uncertainty. A time to plan or embark upon an enterprise. The power of change directed by your own will, transformation. Hope and happiness, the ideal. Security and certainty. Growth and release. Balance point, the place where opposites meet.

Don't see the rune or the meaning you are looking for? There are many more runes available for purchase that haven't made it into listings yet. Shoot me a convo to get your own special order, and carry the energizing rune meanings with you every day :)

Chinese Symbol Charm Necklace

Chinese Symbol for Love Charm Necklace, $28

Continuing along the "symbolic" design element for all Ash Tree jewelry, the latest creation now available for purchase and customization in my shop is the Chinese Symbol Charm Necklace line. I've been wanting to create something like this for a while: as a calligrapher, I really admire the intricate symbols that make up the Chinese language. Written Chinese comprises characters used to represent the Chinese language, and are often composed of parts that may represent physical objects, abstract notions, or pronunciation.

All Chinese symbols above can be ordered at my Etsy shop

I took several words and have made them available to my customers online: now, you can order a necklace with the Chinese characters for LOVE, LONG LIFE, GOOD LUCK, GOOD-HEARTED, AND FRIENDSHIP. Just select which charm you want from the drop-down when you order would be a great, affordable but beautiful Valentine's day gift for a friend!

Elegant and simple, each charm is about 17x11mm in size, and though they are listed on a silver plate chain, but I bet they would look just as great on a black rolled-leather necklace as well. Definitely check out the "LOVE" character - especially if you are in the marketing for something different this Valentine's Day!

Cupcake Necklaces Have Raised over $500 to Support She's the First!

Purchase a STF Cupcake Necklace: 75% of proceeds
Go directly to She's the First!

Thanks to the generous and fabulous supporters of She's the First over the holiday season, I've actually surpassed the next few tiers of my goal to help raise $1,600 to this great organization with cupcake necklace sales with a whopping $500 donation that was made in 2012: and I can't thank all of my customers enough!

With Valentine's Day soon upon us, I thought this would be a great time to show how through a cute cupcake necklace purchase for your best friend or little sister, you can help support girls' education in the developing world during the season of love :)

If you look on the She's the First website, $500 is enough for an essential sponsorship for the Selamta Family Project in Bethel, Ethiopia.

Holiday Sales Raised over $500!

About the Selamta Family Project

“Selamta” means “be at peace.” in Ethiopian Amharic: the goal of this project is to help orphaned children regain the sense of peace they lost when they lost their family. The Selamta Family Project protects Ethiopian orphans, vulnerable children, and marginalized women by establishing permanent, stable family homes and providing access to continuous medical care, education, and social safety nets. Selamta works to maintain the cultural connections that sustain healthy families, neighborhoods, and communities - so that loving families may build strong citizens.

Selamta has several family homes located in Bethel, a suburb of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. To reduce the stigma that often plagues orphans, homes are dispersed throughout the neighborhood, allowing kids to be easily integrated in the larger community. Each family is organized around a permanent, stable Selamta-trained mother, who assume parental duties and provide respectful, loving care for her children. The Selamta staff support the mother in every way to ensure her successful parenting, and the staff is responsible for sustaining her healthy living arrangement.

All of the school-aged kids receive an amazing education at the Alpha Keranyo School, a private school located in the Bethel neighborhood. After-school tutors provide extra support to help children succeed. Despite the fact that many children could not attend formal school before joining the Selamta Family, many kids excel at the top of their class.

What Does This $500 Do?

There are several tiers for this sponsorship, ranging from $360 to $800. This $500 amount can cover the following:

STF Cupcake Necklace, $20

• Continuous education at a rigorous K-12 private school
• School supplies including uniform, backpack and notebooks
• After-school tutoring programs
• Sports and soccer registration fees
• Summer enrichment programs
• Small budget for birthday and holiday celebrations
• Small savings account each child

Interested in helping to sponsor a girl in the Selamta Family Project, or any other girl around the world? Here's how to help!

1. Give the Gift of Awareness for yourself or a friend for this Valentine's Day: 75% of these specially designed Ash Tree She's the First Cupcake Necklace go directly to She's the First
2. Explore the Directory on the STF website to read more about girls who need your help
3. Organize your own Bake Sale to sponsor a girls' education in your school with these great tips from She's The First.

Thanks again to all my customers for your support - I look forward to posting another fundraising update soon for 2013!

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

As with most of the pieces in my design collections, this Gold Wishbone Charm necklace has a meaning behind it. The wishbone symbol is something we're all familiar with after having a "bird-meal", and we've all been on both the winning and losing end of the wish bone break. But what is the tradition behind it, and what does it actually mean?

The wishbone-breaking contest / ritual actually dates back to the 4th century, where civilizations such as the Romans and Etruscans would pull a dry turkey or chicken bone until it snapped - or gave them a "lucky break". The winner was left holding the larger piece of the wishbone, and it was believed that their wish or dream would come true.

Delicate Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

The tradition has continued, as many believe now that the symbol will bring good luck, "catch" dreams, and make wishes come true. It's also become a channel of good energy, and astrologists have linked it to the horoscope sign Sagittarius - who are born between November 22nd and December 21st.

Knowing the rich history behind this energizing symbol, why not take that with you every day, or give it to someone who will? What would you wish for?

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

Elegant and simple, this gorgeous golden wishbone charm suspends beautifully on a stunning silver 16" silver plate chain with 1" of extender chain. The charm is in the shape of an unbroken wishbone,made of bronze with a golden shine. The strong material ensures that it will never "break", keeping your future wishes fulfilled. The bone rests on your neck at approx. 20mm in size.

Source: Symbols and Their Meaning

This piece is one of those designs I've been thinking about for a long time and finally was able to make it come to fruition - as well as being one of those pieces I secretly want to keep for myself :) Makes a great gift for your best friend, daughter, or even bridesmaids at your wedding - contact me if you'd like to inquire about a bulk order, or additional chain sizes.

I hope that you'll see the meaning behind the charm, and that all your wishes will come true!

Cupcake Necklaces Reach First Goal to Support She's the First!

Cupcake Necklace Sales Have
Raised $300 Towards our goal!

We did it! Thanks to the generous and fabulous supporters of She's the First, I've reached the first tier of my goal to help raise $300 with cupcake necklace sales to reach my goal of donating $1,600 to this great organization.

With She's the First now going to be on NBC's American Giving Awards, I thought this would be a great time to spotlight some of the great work they are doing. STF are currently the running to win $1,000,000 - which comes down to Facebook voting. So if you have a moment, please vote for them to  help to unlock this tremendous donation to send girls to school and share before December 4, 2012.

Back to stunning little cupcake necklace sales: if you look on the She's the First website, $300 is enough for an all-inclusive yearly package for everything a girl needs to go to school in Kopila Valley in Surket, Nepal.

About Kopila Valley School

The girls who go to school here come from poor circumstances. The girls all come from poor or illiterate families, and fall into the “high risk” category of being married off to a man, work as domestic servants, have to work in hotels, or by dry riverbeds to earn a living for their family. These girls are the first of their generation to be educated and literate. Kopila Valley is a co-ed primary school that is a safe place for students to spend the day, receive an education in basic English, Nepali, Math, Science, Health, and Social Studies and have their basic needs met. School runs from Sunday-Friday, with Friday being a half day for extracurricular and fun activities, i.e. racing, sports matches, dance competitions, debate, art, and other activities.

What Does This $300 Do? 

This is enough to provide the following for one girl for a YEAR:

• School uniform: $28 (includes 1 skirt, 1 pair of pants, 2 school shirts, 1 sweater, 1 hat, belt, school tie, a pair of shoes, socks, and warm tights for winter)
• School bag, supplies, and set of the year’s text books: $22
• School lunches: $75  (this includes, rice, fresh vegetables, and lentil soup 5 days a week)
• Tuition: $120 (goes towards everything needed to keep the school functioning and sustaining itself, i.e. staff, teachers, and cook salaries, repairs, and construction, school materials, and classroom needs)
• Medical needs: $55 (i.e. vaccines, vitamins, sanitary napkins, medical emergencies, and dental care for the year)
                                     
Total: $300

Interested in helping to sponsor a girl Kopila Valley, or any other girl around the world? Here's how to help!

Puchase a STF Cupcake Necklace: 75% of proceeds
Go directly to She's the First!

• Give the Gift of Awareness for yourself or a friend: 75% of all specially designed Ash Tree She's the First Cupcake Necklace go directly to She's the First
• Explore the Directory on the STF website to read more about girls who need your help
• Organize your own Bake Sale to sponsor a girls' education in your school with these great tips from STF. 
• Vote for She's the First before Dec. 4th to win the American Giving Awards so they may receive their $1 million grant!

Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Necklace

Just because we could use all the good luck we can! Check out the latest creation from Ash Tree, two of which are now available at my Etsy shop for purchase this holiday season.

Always looking to incorporate symbols into my work, I took a look at the horseshoe symbol's actual meaning. Did you know that the horseshoe was another ancient emblem used to ward off the "evil eye"? After the Evil Eye Bracelet I designed, the horseshoe (and eventually four-leaf clover!) was a logical next step for the "good luck" line :).

Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Charm Necklace, $28

Common legend is that the ends of the horseshoe must be pointing up in order to keep all the good luck in. There are theories that the magic of this symbol is in its shape, which is that of the horned moon. Then again, most are satisfied with the notion that the shoe protects the horse, so the horseshoe must work for people, too.

Pretty cool, huh? As I mentioned, this is a limited-edition line: so when these two pieces are gone - they're gone! And with an affordable price like this, it makes a great gift - especially for those needing a little extra luck on final exams, or wedding days :) so don't wait, check out my Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Charm Necklace etsy listing to see more pics, and get yours today!

Sterling Silver Dove Necklace

Sterling Silver Dove Necklace, $28 

Every once in a great while, I design a piece that I'm so in love with that I wish I could keep. I made one of these Sterling Silver Dove Necklaces and put it in the 6 In the Shipyard store...then I made another one which is now for sale in my online shop. And I have to not wear it everyday because it's for sale for my lovely customers :)

I fell in love with this Sterling Silver dove link charm the second I saw it. It's just so delicate and elegant, and is very understated - I think it would also make a great bracelet, so I'm definitely going to make one up next. It suspends on your neck on a silver chain, and is such a subtle and beautiful representation of hope.

Very understated and elegant -
perfect for those who don't wear much jewelry.

My style of jewelry is usually pretty in-your-face and chunky because I'm quite a tall person, so I simply can't keep it. I think this would make a great birthday or thinking-of-you gift - and in some way matches the theme of my "When Pigs Fly" charm necklaces as well, which have been very popular recently. It's also at a great price point, which I try to

What do you think? Check out my Etsy shop listing to see more pics and to purchase - I definitely think this may be a *limited edition* item!

The David - Pastel Drawing

Just for fun, but check out my commissioned artwork offerings

I finally broke down during the tax-free weekend in August and bought myself a nice set of new pastels: they are pretty expensive, and I haven't used them since living in Italy, where my bag was so packed on the way home that I had leave them there. While they were well - used, the case was broken and I had to make a choice. 

But it was fun to break them out again. It's interesting that I've always favored the soft pastel, but think they are so powdery. They are really forgiving if you want to layer on color if you change your mind, but you have to be careful about muddying up an image with blending. 

So I got a picture of The David from Florence - one with a different perspective - and did a quick sketch out with my pastels, feeling out the contours of his muscles and face without much blending. I kind of liked the texture of no blending anyway...how it feels really quick and strong. It obviously is not finished and I only focused on the cool parts of the image rather than the whole thing (big artist no-no), but what matters is that I am drawing again. 

I have done commissioned pastels in the past, so if you're looking to do something with a creative spin, I'd love to talk to you. Pricing varies on project and size, and you can read more about my commissioned work here. Working with people on creative projects like this is always the best! Shoot me an email to get started!

Charcoal Drawings of Wedding Photos

Commissioned Charcoal Drawings, $100 each

In June of 2011, my best friend got married to the love of her life. It's hard to believe that now over a year has gone by, and even harder that she's not around. She has since moved to Texas, and I'm still in Boston - so between student loans and her moving expenses, it's been tough not seeing each other for so long.

The year she got married, I saw her a good 3 times in a year period - which was awesome! Now that we have gone back to the distance, I miss not being able to hang out. So on their anniversary, I picked out one of their wedding photos (their hands with their new wedding rings) and did a sketch in charcoal of it. I matted and framed it, then shipped it off as a surprise wedding gift / housewarming gift for them about a month ago.

Commission your own drawing - Add Matt + Frame for extra $20

I really do love working on these pieces, with thought and meaning behind it. If you think about it, your wedding photos are memories that will last forever. They are beautiful images, and are great resources to use after your wedding as special gifts to family members or to use as thank-you notes.

For wedding calligraphy brides, another unique way that you can your images is to have one of significant meaning translated into a piece of art. It's a great way to add another perspective to your big day, through the eyes of an artist. This makes a great piece for your new home, and with the charcoal technique, the classic black-and-white charcoal look will match any decor - and look great in any room!

Not the bride? These charcoal wedding drawings make great gifts for bridesmaids or the maid of honor to give to the bride as a wedding gift, or make a fabulous and thoughtful 1-year anniversary present for the couple. It's a great way to say how you remember their big day: how much fun you had, an how meaningful it was for you to be a part of it.

Above is the original image, printed off and bit creased from working on it. Any .JPEG file or link will do for this project. Commissioned charcoal pieces are a flat $100 each, for a standard 8"x10" image, unframed. You can also do a framed or matted only option for an additional cost (approx. $20), and I'd be happy to ship right to the couple with a note from you!

Just some food for thought - the holidays are right around the corner, and you'll need something for the new Mr. & Mrs.! Contact me to get started :)

Whimsical Wedding Calligraphy: Place Cards and Table Tents

Calligraphy for Wedding Receptions,
$4 tents (names on both sides) and $1 place cards

I just finished such a fun wedding reception calligraphy job! I met with my bride about a month ago who was desperately in need of a calligrapher to write out her wedding reception table tents and place cards for her wedding. She had her place cards screen printed, and had cut deep purple long cards for her table tents - both needed calligraphy to tie her reception theme together.

First, the table tents: instead of going with table numbers, she decided to name each of her tables after a fictional place, presumably from books and stories. For example, her table name list ranged from Wonderland, Hogwarts, The Shire, Treasure Island, and even Peter Pan's Neverland. It was such a whimsical theme, that her calligraphy definitely had to match. I recommended a lighter color ink (such as white, which is opaque and would stand out) for her deep purple tents so that the name would really pop - to keep with her color theme, she chose a light lavender ink color, which I custom - mixed to match her place cards. They came out beautiful!

Wedding Calligraphy for Place Cards, $1 each

Now for her place cards (above), she did the same whimsical floral print, but in two different card stock colors with two different inks, red and deep purple. She elected to have guests' names written out in the corresponding ink color that the place card was printed in, so I used red ink and mixed a deep purple to match the darker place cards. On the backs, she had the table names screen printed to inform guests where to go: it was a really great touch, because she took the distinct fonts the original places were printed in (for example, Hogwarts if you read the books or have seen the movies has a very distinct lightning bolt in its title) and had them printed on the back in deep purple, regardless of the color card. Take a look at a few of them, below:

Each table was named after a storybook place!

All in all, it was so fun to work on, and I love brides who take the extra step to make their wedding reception unique conceptually. Do you have an idea you'd like for your wedding reception, but need some help piecing it together? Contact me to get started on your wedding calligraphy project today!

Handmade Rose Rings

Pale Pink Rose Ring, $12

Announcing the newest handmade jewelry line from Ash Tree Designs: the Rose Ring!

I saw a similar design while doing some research online for the newest jewelry trends, and understated rose rings are very hot right now. After seeing a few turquoise blue and cream pieces, I started making some sketches to figure out how to construct my own.

Turquoise Blue Rose Ring, $12

I found some ring bases at Micheal's that would provide the sturdy foundation for the rose itself. Then I ordered a rose mold from my favorite mold store, WhysperFairy, on etsy. I then used some clay I had purchased for my Handmade Cupcake Pendants and made a few roses in colors I thought would be great for spring.

After making four selections, I made the roses using the mold, baked the clay, sprayed with a smooth glossy finish, then attached to the rings using jeweler's HYPO cement. And I love the results!

White Rose Ring, $12

There are currently four rings available in my etsy shop, and the plan is to roll out more colors and create more for the 6 In the Shipyard store location. Right now, the colors available are Turquoise, Pale Pink, Black, and White. I thought the white seemed so bridal to me - and the pale pink such a perfect delicate touch to your spring outfit! And the black rose on the bold silver just makes a straight-up statement.

Click the links above to visit my shop and to purchase - and enjoy! :)

Custom Calligraphy: Return Address for Ink Stamp

Custom Calligraphy Return Address Digital File, $15

After consulting with a bride recently who was looking to have some custom calligraphy work done (my favorite!) one of the items she requested was getting a single calligraphy "Return Address" digital file that she could then bring to her own printer so that she could have a custom stamp made for all of her future return addressing needs.

I thought this was such a great idea! After completing the job (see file image, above) I sent to her in her required size and file type. I then decided to try my own and see how it would come out. I chose to use Staples, and uploaded my own address in calligraphy artwork to have a custom self-inking calligraphy return address stamp made.

I was so excited when my stamp finally came in the mail - it came out perfect, and I'm now pleased to offer these custom self inking return address stamps on my etsy website! Not interested in dropping $40? I also  have an option to just purchase your own custom calligraphy return address file that you can use to bring to your own local or favorite printer of your choice!

Custom Calligraphy Return Address Self Inking Stamp, $38

I've sold a few so far, and they've been such a success - I can't wait to do more. You'd think as a calligrapher I'd have thought of this already...but now I look forward to bills and mail so I can stamp my return address. Lame? Maybe. Excited over little awesome things? Definitely.

Click any of the links above to visit the shop listing to get your own custom calligraphy stamp or custom calligraphy return address digital file - it makes a great gift for a new bride (help them commemorate their new address together or new shared name!) or will definitely make your own life easier, if you're a bride with Save the Dates, Invitations, and Thank You Notes to address (that's you're entire guest list x3!)

RAM Construction: 10 Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a Home

As a calligrapher, I cater many of my posts to things of wedding nature for my bridal clients. But after the honeymoon, there's still things to read up on - like how to take care of your new home together! In this guest post contributed by RAM Construction (carpenter and home remodeling contractor in Massachusetts' North Shore), he discusses the top 10 questions you should ask before purchasing a new home.

Finding your dream home can be a challenging experience: especially since you are physically visiting houses that must stack up to all that dreamy criteria in your head. While it's great to visit open houses, it's not enough to just do a walk-through. In order to paint a comprehensive picture of your investment, you should ask the right questions for every house you visit, and don't be afraid to ask!

Here are some essentials every potential homeowner should ask when viewing a home. Print this out as a worksheet if you have to, especially if you have a few houses in mind without a method to compare them. So let's get started!

1) What am I buying?

Ask exactly what is included in the sale, including land, that spacious garage, and other fittings. You'd hate to  invest in your new home and realize that you've now got to purchase a boiler.

2) How much will my bills be?
It's not enough to just determine what your monthly mortgage payment is: you'll need to know how much your utilities and council tax bills will be. Determine whether the house uses electricity, gas, or both, and ask the seller what you might expect to pay for these bills.

3) Who’s lived here before me?
While not many people think to ask this question, it's a good way to approach the condition of the house that you're interested in. New homes that have just been placed on the market ensure that it hasn't had any previous neglectful owners.

4) Have there ever been any issues with the boiler?
Boiler issues are extremely expensive, so always inquire as to whether there have ever been any faults with the boiler, and details on when it was last serviced.

5) Is it insulated?
A properly insulated home will save you hundreds in heating bills. Ask the seller about the cavity and loft wall insulation: if the home doesn't have any, you will need to pay for a new remodeling project.

6) Has it been remodeled?
If the home you're viewing isn't new, ask about previous remodeling projects that the house has undergone. Be sure to request building and planning consent forms so you can see the history of the house.

7) Is central heating installed?
This is a big one: ask if the house comes with full central heating. If not, you could pay a great deal for individual heaters or remodeling projects to fit radiators. If there is central heating, ask how old it is and if it has a history of problems.

8) How new is the décor?
A house with dated decor may require you to invest in updates when you move in. In this case, you'll have to evaluate whether this is something you are willing to do and how much it will cost.

9) What’s the surrounding area like?
This is good to both research online and to ask the real estate agent or seller. Ask about local amenities that are important to you, and inquire about the crime rate.

10) What are the neighbors like?
Take time to ask about the neighbors! You'll be living next to them for years to come, so it's a good idea to get to know the street atmosphere. Ask how long they've lived in the area, who they are (i.e., young couples like you or big families?) This could save you a lot of frustration in the long run, and maybe be a deciding factor if you're in a deadlock between a few properties.

So go look at some houses, and good luck! And if you're local to Massachusetts' North Shore, contact me for any remodeling questions or projects and I'd be more than happy to help out.


Source: The Most Important Checks You Must Make Before Moving Into a New House

About the Author: Rick McManus of RAM Construction in a local Massachusetts' North Shore carpenter who has owned and operated his own business for several years. He specializes in indoor and exterior remodeling, as well as home construction projects such as deck construction and home additions. For more information, please visit this great business' home construction website to contact him about how you can get started on your next home improvement project!

Want to write a guest post for The Ash Tree? Contact me to get started!

11 Tips for Wedding Dresses

I received the following guest post on wedding dress tips, and thought it would be great for my bride wedding calligraphy clients and readers that are looking for some fun (and budget-saving!) wedding-dress reading before their big day. Enjoy!

1) Wedding dresses should be purchased at least a few months before the ceremony. It takes about a month for the gown to arrive. Once it arrives, you will need to take it to an expert seamstress to have the gown fitted and altered.

2) Never use foundation on your décolletage. The powder can stain wedding dresses an unattractive yellow or tan color.

Little Mermaid Inspired Wedding Dress, Alfred Angelo

3) Trunk shows are planned well in advance, so bridal stores should be able to give you a list of dates. Trunk season is from January to May and each show lasts from one to three days. Appointments fill up quickly so call early!

4) "Normal" alterations include shortening straps, adding a bustle, adding a bra cup to the bust, and adjusting a hem. If the gown is too tight and bunching, no amount of alterations will make it comfortable and will fail to show your figure in its best light.

5) Bridal shops often have sales right after high school dances. Check out your local high schools’ websites to get a calendar of school events. If you’re able to shop during a weekday, you will usually get better service.

A-Line Wedding Dress, Simply Bridal

6) When deciding the dress budget, factor in the cost of accessories and alterations. Be aware that sleeve, bodice, and hemline alterations all have different costs. If you plan to lose weight, you will want to discuss it with your seamstress.

7) Create a log of likes and dislikes about various wedding dresses. You can start immediately by buying wedding magazines, ripping out pictures, and circling your favorite parts. You can also do this with accessories.

8) Most trunk shows offer a discount for placing your order on the spot, up to 20%. Even if the salon doesn't offer a discount, the designer may throw in a few extras (buttons down the back, additional length on the train) without charging you more.

9) Before buying a dress online, be aware of the shipping and restocking costs. If the dress seems too good to resist, call up your credit card company before you buy to see how you can protect yourself from unscrupulous sellers.

10) Details like beading and lace are often done by hand. It is often more economical to choose a simple and classic gown and dress it up with well-chosen accessories. You can wear the jewelry again, but not the dress.

11) Keep in mind that most of your guests will be staring at the back of your dress for most of the ceremony. Make sure the dress looks fantastic from all angles.

About the Author: Molly Warner is a writer for SimplyBridal.com, a well known retailer of high quality online wedding dresses. She's been planning her own wedding since she was a seven-year old flower girl and has written for various publications before deciding that her passion is in the bridal industry, especially wedding dresses. 

Want to write a wedding themed guest post for The Ash Tree? Contact me to get started!

Swarovski Valentine's Day Heart Necklaces

Guess what, guys? Only a few weeks left until Valentine's Day! How is your shopping going?

Devoted 2 You Heart Necklace, $18

If you're like most men, you probably haven't even started. And that's OK - I've got this.

Featuring the newest line of handmade jewelry, the Ash Tree 2012 Valentine's Day Collection. In it, I've featured a selection of different shape hearts all within the "Key to My Heart" theme. Here are some images and breakdowns of the symbolism of each heart that you can then lovingly explain to your Valentine this year.

Passion Pink Wild Heart Necklace

Devoted to You Heart Pendant. This pendant necklace features a fun heart shape, with the Swarovski crystal heart itself sweeping down in a simple, different, and yet elegant, shape. Like all of the Ash Tree Valentine's 2012 Collection, this features a single pewter key charm, tying the concept of "Key to My Heart" into the beauty of the piece.

Wild Heart Pendant. The innovative shape of this piece represents a passionate love, and is perfect for the "wild" girl, or one who cherishes her individuality. The Swarovski crystal pendant features an elongated shape with asymmetric faceting, and the elegant shape offers a modern twist Valentine's Day jewelry.

I Love You Pendant. This is the simple and elegant heart shape piece that is perfect for the traditional, sophisticated woman. The Swarovski crystal one-of-a-kind brilliance and intense luminosity is a result of alternating large and small facets throughout the pendant.

Miss You Heart Pendant

Miss You Heart Pendant. The Miss U Heart crystal pendant features a surface is covered in irregular long and short flat facets for a hip, modern flash of light. The absence of a the complete whole heart represents a symbolic placement, conveying a sense of "You Are In My Heart".

It's a fabulously modern spin on the classic heart pendant, and is great for the long-distance relationship - or as a simple love reminder every day.

With all these options, boys, you don't just have to settle for Valentine's Day! If by chance you're too late to take advantage of these pieces, you can always get one of these affordable Swarovski Crystal Heart Pendant Necklace for her birthday - any time of year - by contacting me, visiting the Ash Tree Shop, or stopping by the retail store location, 6 In the Shipyard!

Cupcake Necklaces for She's the First

I've decided to take on my first charity jewelry project. I've found a great charity called "She's the First", a non profit organization that sponsors girls’ education in the developing world, helping them be the first in their families to graduate: and I'm all for young women's education and empowerment!

She's the First Cupcake Necklaces, $20 Each

The primary method of fundraising for this nonprofit is through cupcake sales: but not just any cupcakes, tie-dye cupcakes! Using creative layering and food coloring, the end result is a powerfully colorful confection that perfectly represents the blossoming young girls who are trying their hardest to just find a place in this world. I have now placed a limited selection of cupcake jewelry available for purchase at the 6 In the Shipyard Hingham Boutique, and online at my Ash Tree Etsy Shop.

These Cupcake Necklaces are going to be sold for just $20 each, with $15 of each necklace going directly to She's the First. These necklaces are adorable, speckled with rhinestone "sprinkles" and available in teal and bright magenta tie-dye "cups", which are the She's the First brand colors. Cupcakes are also available in red, green, yellow, purple, pink, and red "cups". So help support a worthwhile cause - please purchase an adorable cupcake necklace - makes a great Valentine's Day gift!

I've been working closely with the Charity's Founder herself Ms. Tammy Tibbets, and Ash Tree Designs will be an active partner in helping this charity reach their goals!

PURCHASE A CUPCAKE NECKLACE TO FUND GIRLS' EDUCATION!

Silver Starfish Necklaces

Silver Starfish Necklace, $18

I'm so pleased with the popularity of these silver starfish pendants during the holiday season. Everyone loves starfish, and with a simple and elegant piece like this, MEGA MONDAY customers can't seem to get enough!

There are two versions of this necklace that I am featuring both in my Ash Tree Designs Shop, and in the retail store location 6 In the Shipyard. The version I introduced first, pictured above, took off immediately. It featured an antiqued pewter silver starfish pendant with long, skinny arms: it's hidden bail makes it seem to "float" on the necklace (okay...maybe nautical pun intended...) I have these starfish pendants on white, black, and even pink rolled leather necklaces, which are strong cords with a beautiful finished look.

Puffed Out Silver Starfish Necklaces, $15 each

I also created a slightly smaller and less expensive version of this pendant, pictured above. This antiqued pewter starfish is slightly puffed out, and very cute available on pink, black, and white necklaces.They've made great stocking stuffers for our 6 In the Shipyard clients, and because they are limited edition I've sold nearly half my stock already. They also make a great compliment to the brilliant Swarovski Crystal Starfish Necklaces ($18 in Bermuda Blue and Clear) that I also have available.

Check out my Etsy shop to get your own nautical necklace today!

Hand Crafted Cheese Boards

Handcrafted Cheese Boards, $32

I'm so excited to be featuring these! Made from skilled carpenter craftsman Mr. Richard McManus of RAM Construction located in Topsfield, MA, these gorgeous handmade cheese boards are carefully crafted out of local Massachusetts wood. The boards have been treated with natural mineral oil to preserve the board, and each one is food safe, guaranteed not to split for life.

I found your next housewarming gift for hostess!

The detail in the contrasting maple and oak wood panels is stunning, and perfect for serving cheese and crackers at parties.

Makes an excellent, unique and thoughtful gift for your next hostess, housewarming, or wedding shower - and the quality is outstanding.

These are so fun to pick up and feel how smooth they are, (if you're weird like that - like I am...) so if you're local I recommend stopping by 6 In the Shipyard to check them out.

And if you're looking to round this unique gift out with a little something extra, I recommend checking out these cheese knives available from Williams Sonoma. The beautiful wooden handles of each cheese knife are a perfect match with these local woods featured in these handmade cheese boards. You can purchase the whole set for $49.95, either online at the Williams Sonoma website, or at a W-S retail store location.

Williams Sonoma Cheese Knives, Set of 5 $49.95

 Help Support Local Artisans: Purchase Your Handmade Cheese Board Online Now!