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 :)

Brushed Silver Shamrock Charm Necklace

Brushed Silver Shamrock Charm Necklace, $28

Well, the dreaded / much celebrated St. Patrick's Day has just about arrived, and what better way to welcome it with a lovely brushed silver shamrock charm necklace?

As with many other pieces in my Ash Tree design collections, this Silver Shamrock Necklace has a meaning behind it. The most popular shamrock meaning was from in Ireland around the fifth century, where St. Patrick was introducing and establishing Christianity among the people there. He utilized the three-leaf clover as an illustration of the holy trinity, with each leaf representing the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The tree sections are also symbolic of the three theological virtues found in the first Corinthians 13:13 - "Faith, Hope, and Love".

To this day, the spiritual meaning of the shamrock continues to be iconic of St. Patrick's teachings, though it was also revered by Ancient Celts because of its trinity as well. A myriad of their beliefs were also based on triads according to the artists of the time, and the occurrence of 3's were aspects of goddesses, gods,  time, and the balance of energies.

(Source: What's Your Sign? Symbolic Shamrock Meaning)

Now that you more thoroughly understand the symbolism behind the shamrock, get your own Silver Shamrock Necklace at a reasonable price for this St. Patrick's day - also makes a great gift for the Irish gal ;)

Lips Charm Necklace Jewelry

Red Lips Necklace, $28

Jewelry featuring lips has been very popular recently - fashion jewelry icons like Jules Smith have released lines featuring kiss kiss "lips", so I decided to create a piece of my own. I just released the latest Ash Tree handmade necklace design Red Lips Necklace, now available for purchase in my Etsy shop.

The lips - also available in a sassy hot pink - are gorgeous enameled charms and strung on a stunning silver plate chain. Since much of the Ash Tree jewelry collections relate to symbolism in some way, I looked up what "red lips" signify - turns out, there's a back and forth when it comes to the meaning of red lips: on one hand, the red lip is a favorite color among men for women to wear. On the other, a red lipstick is considered "fierce", that is, a bright, bold, and powerful fashion statement among women. 

Red Lips Necklace Design, $28 by Ash Tree

What does a fiery red lip (or hot pink) mean to you? Makes a great gift for Valentine's Day for yourself, a daughter or friend - and definitely adds a "kiss" of style to any wardrobe ;)

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!

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!

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! :)

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!

Silver and Gold Leaf Charm Bracelet

Look no further for the perfect accessory to holiday parties this year!

Gold and Silver Leaf Bracelet, $50

This bracelet was painstakingly handcrafted from delicate silver and gold leaf small metal charms on silver plate chain, which makes it an extremely elegant charm bracelet. Each leaf charm measure 6.5mm x 4mm each, and the volume of these brilliant, understated leaves make this a delicate but beautiful piece of fine handmade jewelry.

The bracelet size pictured here is approximately 7"-8" long and secured with a small toggle clasp. I also made a beautiful pair of delicate matching gold and silver leaf earrings, pictured left.

Makes a great gift, for yourself or for someone special :) Listing valid while supplies last, and I've limited it to only 3 editions this season, so hurry and order your Silver and Gold Leaf Charm Bracelet today! Special commission requests may be made post-2011.

Visit the Ash Tree Designs handmade jewelry shop on Etsy.

Rhinestone Cupcake Necklaces

Rhinestone Cupcake Necklaces, $20

Introducing the newest line in Ash Tree Designs handmade jewelry, the Rhinestone Cupcake Necklace. These adorable little treats have been in process for several weeks now - from original conception inspiration from the She's The First cupcakes for education nonprofit that I read about on the train in the Metro to sketching out and ordering (and waiting impatiently) for supplies.

When I first started, I really wanted a bright statement piece of jewelry in cupcake form. I did some research online and did sketches and took notes, but nothing I found really had the "look" I was going for, and I was excited to create my own.

Once I had a sketch in mind, I searched my favorite Etsy sellers for some supplies, as I figured a mold would be the only way to go when crafting something this small and delicate: I was lucky enough to stumble across WhysperFairy, an adorable shop that features molds spanning from anything you could ever imagine. I found a cupcake top and bottom, convo'd her to see if they'd fit, and anxiously awaited them to arrive.

 Meanwhile, I made a trip to Dick Blick art stores to pick up the polymer clay that I needed and a sealing agent that I could use to coat the finished cupcakes and give them a glossy finish and shine. I also ordered my Swarovski crystals in various sizes and colors to embellish the white "frosting" with.

Pink Rhinestone Cupcake Necklace, $20

When my molds came from WhysperFairy ahead of schedule (thanks again to Julie for such great customer service!) I got to work molding and experimenting with how to go about doing the cupcakes and getting them to fit together. Using about a quarter of each color, I made up to 5 cupcake molds, inserted an eye hook, designed and placed in the Swarovski crystals in the appropriate places, and set them in the oven. Once baked, each cupcake got a few coats of a glossy finish to both seal the whole piece together and to give it a glossy shine.


Right now, I have about 20 finished cupcakes and awaiting the arrival of more Swarovski crystals so I can get more out to place on my online store and at my retail location in Hingham, 6 In the Shipyard. But the interest has really taken off, and I'm so pleased to see the results of my time and efforts to come across so beautifully in these statement pieces.

Buy these necklaces at Ash Tree Designs online store

The colors available now (pictured) are red, yellow, green, blue, purple and magenta. I may experiment with some lighter pastel colors, but really like the vibrancy of these for now. You can purchase them online at my Ash Tree Designs handmade jewelry shop, or contact me if you'd like a special order or your color is not in stock. Happy holiday shopping!

Key To My Heart Necklaces

Truly In Love Key to My Heart Necklace, $28

A personal favorite of mine, the "Key to My Heart" necklace jewelry line is a beautiful statement for someone you care about in your life: a daughter, girlfriend, or even fiance. I wanted to avoid the cutesy look associated with this idea, so I chose a modern-looking heart crystal pendant shape, and attached a simple small key to it. No weird "lock" involved - just a simple statement that you have, that you are, the "Key to My Heart".

This concept design comes in a variety of color schemes, pictured here are the clear crystal and red crystal hearts: the heart pendants are made from real Swarovski crystal.

Pictured here is a Swarovski crystal heart is strung with an antiqued pewter key charm on a black rolled leather necklace, and the same with the white necklace. Simple and beautiful.

Key To My Heart Necklace, $18

Actual heart pendant size is 15mm, and the necklace is an adjustable necklace measuring approx. 17". I've also sold this piece on delicate silver chains, which are just as beautiful, for the same price. Chain sizes can be customized to fit whatever length you'd like.

If you'd like to purchase either of these pieces, please visit my Ash Tree Designs Etsy Shop. Also be sure to contact me if you'd like to discuss additional color or chain options - I'm happy to help. And don't forget...Christmas is only a few short weeks away!

Guest Post: "Inspiration" by Kiss Me Creations

I am an artist.

Many of you can say the same. Painters, performers, dancers, poets, jewelers, singers, actors, novelists, crafters...they're all artists.

Or, if you're not an artist, maybe you are an art appreciator. You're moved by a still life photograph. You can decipher meaning in abstract art. You find the perfect piece and want to share it with someone. Maybe the art finds you.

I love crafting. Ever since I was little I've loved to create my own projects, ranging from collecting sticker books to painting wood cut-outs. Even now, in my spare time I make paper beads, and then string them together to make bracelets and earrings. I take photographs, sometimes editing them on my computer. I've also been experimenting with polymer clay.

One great resource for me has been etsy.com. I officially joined last month, but I frequented the site often before opening up shop. Like I said, I love to craft, so in order to fund my hobby I decided to try selling my crafts. Even though I would like to make some money so I can keep crafting, Etsy has been great in other ways. I find myself posting in forums, connecting with other artists. I keep browsing through the different sections, looking at the items other sellers have listed. There are so many wonderful creations that have been so inspiring. I love to see what other people make, what they put effort and love into. Each piece has a story to tell. And you don't have to become a member to experience these stories. You can browse through the pages, or search for anything you have in mind. Another idea is to stop by a local craft fair. As the weather warms, they will become more common, and you can search your local paper for different locations. Art inspires me to create my own, so I love to see what people are trying to convey in their crafts.

But enough about me. What inspires you?

 Your friends?

 The images in your dreams?

 That special someone in your life?

To honor the beauty that surrounds us every day, I've created my very own "Inspiration Collection". With the help of polymer clay, paint, and rubber stamps, I've made these charms that feature words of inspiration to me. Just one word can get you thinking. These charms will all be up for sale at my Etsy shop. Some will be added to jewelry, and some will be sold just as the charms. There will be more styles available than just those pictured above.

So while you're browsing through my shop, or even just glancing out the window, think about what inspires you, and be thankful for that inspiration.

I would like to thank the Ash Tree for giving me this opportunity to share my thoughts with all of you. It has been a pleasure writing this post.

Sincerely,

Kissy, Kiss Me Creations

*If you would like to write a guest post for The Ash Tree, contact me today to get started.

Ash Tree Makes Alzheimer's Donation

After The Ash Tree was featured in South Shore Living, we received a great amount of feedback and publicity for our 6 In the Shipyard store location. One email specifically caught my attention - it was a woman who had read the SSL article and was wondering if I would be willing to make a product donation to an Alzheimer's raffle event. Being the charity-focused person that I am and always wishing I could give more, I said "YES!"


This particular fundraiser is going to be held, in April 2011, at the 99 Restaurant in Wareham to support the Alzheimer's Services of Cape Cod and the Islands (ASCCI). They had written me in the hopes that Ash Tree Designs would like to participate by donating a prize for a raffle to be held at the event. 

"Dining for a Cause" Event: April 2011 at 99 Restaurant in Wareham, MA

In an effort to raise awareness, the woman's daughter, Amanda Sullivan, has organized this "Dining for a Cause" event after her grandfather passed away over a year ago from Alzheimer's (...and she's only in the 7th grade!) In addition to the gift donation I had made, I just wanted to raise awareness about this event to the local subscribers to my blog. This is an excellent organization, and the event itself has 100% of the proceeds go to Massachusetts local programs and services that help an estimated 10,000 people living with the Alzheimer's disease on the Cape - including:

• Memory Screenings
• Family Support and Education Programs
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Caregiver Respite Programs

I hope that you are able to make it to the event - for more information about the charity, please contact Catherine Oldham, at 774-487-3663 or email catherine@alzcapecod.org to inquire about what you can do to support this great cause.

Included in the Ash Tree donation was a great gift bag with a large handmade journal, handmade necklace with a beautiful glass drop pendant, and a pair of handmade rainbow quartz earrings - all in a "green" theme for the Spring!


The Ash Tree has a long history of volunteering and donating time and items to charity events. If you are interested in featuring Ash Tree products at your charity or event, please contact me with event information and I'd be happy to set something up!

Evil Eye Jewelry

Introducing the latest in Ash Tree Designs: Evil Eye Jewelery!

The inspiration for these pieces came from a belief in Greece which I had learned about in my visit there last year, and had further researched recently. Evil Eye jewelry works when the wearer is given the "Evil Eye", or a look of envy or ill-will from another: the wearer's "eye" then looks back at them, neutralizing the negative energy and keeping the wearer safe. 

Evil Eye Bracelet, $8

 

Many people in the Middle East believe that receiving envious stares from other scan bring you bad luck. The most common Evil Eye bead is a beautiful blue color, because in the dry land of Turkey, "blue" water is precious and life-giving. I use a large blue bead for my most basic piece, the Evil Eye Bracelet, $8 which is threaded on a black cord adjustable with two slip knots.

 

Evil Eye Jewelry Now Available from The Ash Tree!

In addition to the simple Evil Eye Bracelets now available from the Ash Tree (and can be bought at Ash Tree's 6 In the Shipyard Hingham store location!) there are also many other colors of Evil Eye jewelry available. Red, another popular color, is often associated with luck and good fortune.
 

Shop all Evil Eye products in Ash Tree Handmade Jewelry online, or stop by the 6 In the Shipyard in Hingham, MA to pick up a good-luck, good-karma jewelry piece of your very own! Makes a great gift for guys, too :)

New Location for The Ash Tree!

The Ash Tree's unique products can now be found at our new store location, 6 In The Shipyard. The new shop, now located in the recently opened Hingham Shipyard Launch at 18 Shipyard Drive in Hingham, has been a smashing success so far in the holiday season.

Though we wished we could have moved in earlier to capture more of the holiday rush, the traffic and business has been excellent. 6 In The Shipyard represents six different vendors that each bring something unique to the table, and I am proud to be doing business with them.

I have been able to contribute my online marketing knowledge in the design of a new website and blog, as well as setting up a 6 In The Shipyard Facebook Page and Twitter account. At the shop, I have all of my merchandise, and will use the venue as an experiment when designing new jewelry or pieces of art. Currently, I have my jewelry (and famous handmade earrings!), handmade books, recycled sail wallets and sail bags, embroidered necklaces, Purple Heart merchandise, seaglass rings, seaglass necklaces, and much more!

Also included in the "Six" are Dock This Way Embroidery and Design, Camilley's Closet, The Pink Poppy, Soul One One, and Sea Glass Photography. For more info, be sure to swing by the 6 In The Shipyard website to view products from each of the vendors, visit their websites, and check out the guest blogging and *wonderful web design work* provided by yours truly!

Contact me for more information!

Seaglass Pendants

Since I just finished an order for a Custom Seaglass Ring today, I figured I'd do a quick feature on my Seaglass Necklaces that I have available. As some of you know already, I do some work with sea glass that I used to find with my family when I was younger: we literally had bags and bags of what we found on the beaches. I recently decided to try and make these memories into some beautiful jewelry pieces, by wrapping them with silver plated wire (pictured here is a "cage" wire-wrapping technique) and stringing them onto a cord.

I usually try and create a pop with a brightly colored cord, although I have done pieces that are more subtle with a black satin or woven cord. The blue that is pictured is actually suede - saw it at Michael's and couldn't resist :) These necklaces are super popular when I have jewelry shows - they add a touch of summer to any outfit.

Want to see if I have a certain color? Need a custom piece for an upcoming birthday? Pissed that I apparently didn't wear enough sunscreen earlier in the day when I modeled this piece? Let me know!

Blue Gray Striped Shell Bracelet

You may remember my Blue Gray Shell Earrings, $10 - this bracelet is intended to be a match for the set! I blogged earlier about how drawn I was to these mother of pearl shell beads, and how much they reminded me of Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Which is an awesome cereal.

Pictured below, again, for your reference.

Mmmmm. ANYWAY, this handmade bracelet is now available in my etsy shop, and it has definitely passed the "Ashley wears her own jewelry to work" phase. It matches black and white outfits, and the freshwater pearls, faceted glass, and hematite bead dangles make this piece almost reminiscent of a charm bracelet. And it goes without saying that its super dangly and fun.

I love working on handmade jewelry pieces :) Do you like the design? Not edgy enough for you? How do you feel emotionally about Cinnamon Toast Crunch? I want to know!

Featured Etsy Seller: Silviasheart

Today's featured Etsy seller is Silviasheart: a gorgeous shop that features beautiful jewelry in creative photography displays. Above is the only piece from her shop she may duplicate for herself, the Green and Chrome Diopside. The shop itself is named after the owner's German Shephard, Silvia, that passed in May 2009.
"I made jewelry much earlier, but after loosing her I just fell apart. My husband Gabriele suggested I pick it back up again to get my mind off of our loss. That is when I really started to learn about genuine gemstones. I just dove into the deep end."

So some expensive tools, a guage, carat scale, refractometer, microscope DVD's and several reference books later, her love became a passion: always thinking of Sylvia. She loves gardening, and finds herself inspired by flowers - which clearly comes across in her pieces and then appropriately photographed against *green* props.

As far as strengths and weaknesses go - her greatest strength in her etsy shop is her passion for further learning and making something that is truly unique. She also enjoys the everyday challenge of learning something new and then applying that knowledge. Conversely - and similar to any other artist, I imagine :) - she considers her biggest weakness to be her impatience with herself. Silviasheart's dream goal would be to have a designer store ask for a one-of-a-kind piece for an outfit or to go with an item of clothing.

She promotes her shop in the Etsy forums, hand out business cards and on she's also on Facebook and Twitter.


She also credits her husband, Gabriele, who she considers to be an incredible inspiration.

"He has spent much time in researching tools and equipment and making special surprise purchases. He has encouraged me in every way to let my creative side out. He will be honest if I ask for a critique and always has great ideas. I wish I had half as much creativity as he has. He should have his own Etsy shop!"

Sounds like a catch!! :)

My favorite piece of Silviasheart is her Citrine Pendant Necklace, $55, pictured above. I'm such a fan of funky, swirled silver pieces like this!