Renegade Craft Fair 2011: Brooklyn, NY

In the NJ/NY area and trying to decide what to do this weekend?  Skip the beach traffic, gather some friends, and come out to support local artists at Brooklyn's 7th Annual Renegade Craft Fair!  If you remember, we attended this craft fair last year and were overwhelmingly impressed by the number of talented artists in our area. Unique and original handmade crafts from greeting cards to jewelry to bath products and home decor can be found here at very reasonable prices. Though some vendors will take credit cards, be sure to hit up the ATM and get some cash for those that don't (and also for the wonderful little Italian ice carts that we're hoping will be there again this year). The fair will take place this Saturday and Sunday (June 11th and 12th) from 11am-7pm at McCarren Park and will feature over 300 vendors. Here are a few of the vendors and items we are really excited to check out:

1. Daina Ceramics | 2. Bark | 3. Brooklyn Charm | 4. Coatt | 5. Julie Nolan | 6. Perch | 

7. Taylor Ceramics | 8. Yardsale Press | 9. jesswitaj | 10.  Georgia Varadakis Jewelry | 

11. Katharine Watson | 12. Nervous System | 13. d'emploi | 14. Lauren Haupt | 15. bettula |

16. Krank Press | 17. Pansy Maiden | 18. Bunny Butt Apothecary |

XOXO

Jen & Saira

The Eleventh Day of Christmas Winner!

On the 11th Day of Christmas PDR gave to Kasey... a unique owl locket from Gypsy Warrior and a beautiful collage etching by Kate Van Vliet! 

Kasey will receive this amazing silver and gold heart locket from Gypsy Warrior.  Gypsy Warrior is a collaborative effort from two very stylish dolls, Nicla and Michel (who went to college with us!) The ladies combined their eclectic personal styles to create a website that provides unique and vintage clothing and accessories to women everywhere who want to stand out from the crowd.  Their selections are strongly influenced by retro 60s and 70s style, and have a bohemian edge. While Gypsy Warrior is a fairly new business, they are wildly popular and their items have been selling out like crazy! Be sure to check out their Etsy and Ebay page for the latest fashion deals, and follow them on Facebook as well!

It is definitely Kasey's lucky day. In addition to the amazing owl heart locket, Kasey will also receive this gorgeous etching by Kate Van Vliet. What we really love about Kate's art is that it reflects a beautiful contrast between masculine and feminine. Working with wood, metal, and fire (traditionally thought of as very "masculine" elements) Kate creates art with traditional "feminine" subject matters, such as birth control, compacts, doilies, etc. Kasey will receive a beautiful, framed drawing of a hot air balloon drifting away from a lovely castle. Jen in particular loves this item, as her husband proposed to her on a hot air balloon! But even if you don't have this romantic sentiment to draw you in, we're sure you'll enjoy Kate's delicate and unique style that makes her work so eye catching. Check out Kate's website to view all of her collections, and check out her Etsy page to see what's in stock!

Thanks again, to Gypsy Warrior (big shout out to Michel!) and Kate Van Vliet for their wonderful contributions!  Keep up the amazing work, and have a safe and happy holiday season!

Congratulations to today's winner, Kasey!  Please send us an email with your contact information so we can ship out your prizes asap! Also, tune in tomorrow for the last day of our 12 Days of Christmas (last chance to win a prize if you haven't done so already) and our last post before we go on a Christmas hiatus!

XOXO

Jen & Saira

The Tenth Day of Christmas Winner!

On the 10th day of Christmas, PDR gave to Kate... a custom button necklace by Land and Laboratory!

Kate will receive a custom button necklace designed by Jen of Land and Laboratory.  Jen has a B.F.A. in painting and a Masters in art history, and incorporated her love for the arts in her jewelry making.  While she began making her button necklaces and earrings as a way of relieving stress during graduate school, her hobby quickly became a passion.  As her friends and family began demanding more and more jewelry, Jen's stress relief quickly became a favorite accessory among her social circle and beyond. We love Land and Laboratory's unique style, which is reflective of Jen's own unique personality.  The pieces have a wonderful sense of color and style that stand out from other designers. The necklace pictured above is one of our favorites, and we also love the mother of pearl earrings that are available on her site.  Kate will be able to have a necklace custom designed for her. May we suggest shades of purple and mauve? Or canary yellow and cream? Or perhaps wooden buttons for a more earthy look? The possibilities are endless!

Thank you Land and Laboratory for your generous donation!  Dolls, be sure to check out Jen's etsy page so you can add her collection to your wish list.

And congratulations to you, Kate!  Please contact us with your email address and we'll be sure to put you in touch with Jen to get started on your custom necklace!

XOXO

Jen & Saira

The Fifth Day of Christmas Winner!

On the fifth day of Christmas, PDR gave to Jen (Making it in Madison)... a fun and funky pair of earrings by Heidi Roland.

Jen will receive this fantastic pair of 4 inch, dangly and elegant earrings by jewelry and accessory designer, Heidi Roland.  This ultra light pair of earrings features small pieces of white leather, a delicate gold chain, and small, very real, white feathers. Based out of Philadelphia, PA,  Heidi Roland creates gorgeous earrings for women who dare to be bold and who aren't afraid to express themselves. Using feathers, leather, gold and other natural materials, Heidi creates a look that is truly one of a kind and certainly one that makes a statement. In addition to these winter white feather earrings, we are loving her simple, yet high impact, leather horseshoe earrings that dangle at a dramatic 5 inches and also her long and lovely feather and leather fringe necklaces.  Her expertly crafted earrings are inspired by art, fashion, and free spirited women in a way that is perfectly Pocahontas meets Park Avenue.



Thank you, Heidi, for contributing this gorgeous pair of earrings to our 12 Days of Christmas giveaway and congratulations, Jen, on winning these!



Never fear, dolls!  While this pair of earrings will be on its way to Wisconsin shortly, you can check out Heidi's shop on Etsy for her whole collection and purchase some other great items for yourself, your friends, family, or other bold women in your life.



XOXO

Jen & Saira

The Third Day of Christmas Winner!

On the third day of Christmas, PDR gave to MEG B.... a lovely assortment of pink items from two very lovely designers,  Zucchini and Co. and Bathtub Jungle.  

It was such a pleasure to meet Melissa, from Zucchini and Co., last week.  Not only are her designs cheerful, romantic, and fresh but she is an enthusiastic and all around delightful person.  Melissa received her BFA in printmaking here in NJ and she is certainly making a name for herself with her charming designs and items that are just perfect for gifting this holiday season. We spent a lot of time gushing over her work from her desk top calendars to her holiday cards, ornaments, and prints.  

Meg B. will receive a whimsical set of all occasion cards from Zucchini and Co.  This set of 6 cards features 2 "Happy Birthday" cards, 2 "Thank You" cards, 1 "Congratulations" card, and one fun little card for just saying "Hello".  Send one of these cards and you'll surely be sending your wishes in style.  

In addition to these cards, Meg will also receive a hilariously funny pair of earrings by Maggie Huth.  In her designs, Maggie states that she strives to, "take the ordinary and make it extraordinary", and this is definitely evident in her shop, Bathtub Jungle.  Her hand cut sterling silver silhouette necklaces are so delicate and beautiful and feature a variety of designs from classic keys and antique chairs to funky tentacles emerging from a lovely old fashioned bathtub.

Meg will receive one of Maggie's favorite items from her shop, this funny little pair of pig head and butt earrings.  You'll find a variety of pairs of these kitschy earrings in all different animals - pigs, cats, dogs, horses, wolves, and more - perfect for you or any animal lover in your life.  These are small little stud earrings (smaller in person than they appear here) with sterling silver backings and would make excellent stocking stuffers this Christmas.

And, finally, Meg will also get a special little pink cupcake ornament courtesy of Paper Doll Romance.



Congratulations, Meg B.! Please email us with your contact information by Friday to claim your gift.

Thanks, again, to Melissa from Zucchini and Co. and Maggie from Bathtub Jungle for donating to our gift giveaway and for supporting Paper Doll Romance.  We wish you a very happy holiday and were so pleased to have been able to feature you and your wonderful work.

XOXO

Jen & Saira

Holiday Gift Guide: Let's Get Personal

With just a few weeks left until Christmas, we're all scrambling to find that perfect gift for our friends, families, coworkers, mailman, etc. The best gifts are, of course, the ones that are the most personal and show the recipient that you really took the time and put a little thought into it.  So, what can make a personalized gift even better?  Choose a gift that is hand-made and unique, just like your loved one!  We'll leave it to you to get creative but, just in case you're stressing,  here are a few random ideas that put a unique spin on the personalized or monogrammed gift item.

Everyone loves some sort of hot beverage in the winter time, be it coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. So, personalized mugs are a safe gift choice.  Now, we're not talking about any old "Mom", "Dad", or "Grandpa" kind of mug.  We're thinking of something a little more unique, like this one by bailydoesntbark.  This mug is super sentimental and allows you to hand write your own message on it and then bake it into the mug permanently for years of enjoyment.

Being an urban cowgirl was never so tempting!  We love this one of a kind bracelet so much that Jen recently purchased it as a gift for a friend.  It's modern, industrial hammered metal is complimented perfectly by a rustic leather band and custom hand stamped letters. 

Have a musician in your life? Do they march to the beat of their own drum?  If so, these personalized drum sticks would be the perfect gift option for any little drummer boy (or girl!).

Tell your sweetie not to go to Jared this year and to consider getting you something a little more unique.  Sure, this handmade spoon bracelet doesn't have diamonds or gemstones, but it certainly has history and charm, which is definitely something we romantics can appreciate.

Looking for the perfect gift for any puzzle or word lover? This customized word find would be a great gift for a friend or loved one.  Personalize it with names, important places, inside jokes, etc. so they can hang in on the wall and always be reminded of how much you care.

Does your mom/sister/girlfriend/wife/babysitter/etc.etc. love snow?  Why not get her a beautiful personalized snowflake pendant.  Snowflake necklaces have become increasingly popular, but we're willing to bet none of the ladies in your life have one quite as unique as this one!  

Pretty stationary is always a good thing to have around and the prettiest and most impressive is the kind that's personalized.  Can't think of something to get for that coworker you happened to get for secret santa?  No worries! Cute stationary like this is an easy solution for any professional person or really anyone who appreciates good old fashioned snail mail.

Say it in binary!

We just 011011000110111101110110011001010000110100001010 (we hope that says "love") this great etched, sterling silver binary code bracelet!  Have a name, quote, or  secret message encoded in this bracelet for your loved one as a fun little surprise.  Even funnier -- don't tell them what it says and let them figure it out for themselves!

Who would we be if we didn't support our friends and local artists? Get Yard Sale Press's Letter Tile Coasters to represent names, words, jokes, etc. and you're sure to score major points with your favorite word sleuth or board game lover. Send Bryan an email if you're interested in placing an order.  AND, be sure to keep commenting because we're happy to say we have a set of these babies to give away during our 12 Days of Christmas!



XOXO

Jen & Saira

Fall Fashion: Leaf Jewelry

Autumn in NJ is known for brightly colored, falling leaves.  We love fall and we love accessories, so, why not combine the two? Leaf jewelry makes it easy to add some fall flair to your wardrobe and with the kick off of the holiday season we think some of these items would be great gifts!  Here are a few great styles we've come across:

Dainty and delicate, this leaf necklace by JewelryDeli is a great find for those elegant special occasions or for your classic, everyday, work attire.

This modern style leaf bracelet by Juliesadorabowls is certainly something to swoon over.  It's got just the right gold tone and it's clean lines and modern shapes make it easily wearable all year long.

For a slightly more statement like necklace you can choose this one by Mystic Moon Studio.  The bold leaves will certainly draw some attention and update your fall or winter wardrobe. 

You don't need to be a Greek goddess to rock a bracelet like this one, by BeadsbyEvelyn.  Show the world you're a winner in this bracelet that we think is reminiscent of Greek laurel wreaths, a symbol a victory.

Hello, modern!  This is not you typical fall inspired jewelry.  Paper Demon Jewelry's necklace is a crisp, modern, and romantic take on fall with an icy blue color that can seamlessly transition to winter.

How this is done we cannot comprehend, but lauralidesigns uses real leaves, hand painting and gold plating them, to create these lovely little works of art.  The detail is amazing and they are real leaves so each pair is slightly different from the next, making them as unique as you are!

This necklace by FreshyFig has a classic leaf  pattern with modern varying sizes, but the antique brass gives it overall vintage charm.  We think this would look stunning on some fall wedding bridesmaids in strapless navy gowns!

Sometimes simpler is better and, when it comes to jewelry, it's nice to have pieces that are versatile.  These earrings by roundabout are so simple that they can go with pretty much any outfit, for any season.  

Express your love for fall in this casual, understated bracelet by Silkstone Designs.  The thin suede wrap-around band and tiny leaf charm make this bracelet the perfect one to accompany your weekend jeans and t-shirt look.

An acquaintance of ours, a best friend of a friend, has recently started selling jewelry through her company, Gypsy Warrior!  We want to help her spread the word because not only is her stuff lovely, it's unique and therefor right up the PDR ally.  Check out these fun, dangly leaf earrings and other accessories on her etsy shop!

Hammered metal makes a statement and this handmade bracelet is no exception.  Be bold and show your your edgy side this Fall with a metal leaf shaped cuff like this one by birdforbread.





XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Renegade Craft Fair - Top 10 Finds!

Hey Dolls!  Last weekend we braved the sun, heat, humidity, and tornado-like winds at the Renegade Craft Fair in search of handmade treasures to share with you. Talented local artists were out selling creations ranging from cards to baskets to t-shirts and handmade children's toys and the quality of the work was seriously impressive! Overall we had a great day, met some wonderful people, and, of course, ate more Italian ices than we care to admit. Although it was very hard to choose just 10 out of the many beautiful things we encountered throughout the day we have managed to come up with a list of our favorite items. So, as promised, here are our Top 10 Picks (in no particular order) from last weekend's Renegade Craft Fair in Brooklyn, New York.

All you need is L-O-V-E... even if it is only worth 7 points. We L-O-V-E these adorable "Letter Tile" coasters by Yard Sale Press. These wooden coasters are handmade, sanded with care, and then screen printed with letters that you can use to create your own words! How F-U-N!  These babies were so popular that they sold out!  But, never fear, there are more in the making and you'll be able to purchase your own set soon, just send Bryan at Yard Sale Press an email!!  

 To say that we adore PaperPastries would be an understatement! Kittens, cupcakes, and candy, oh my!  You will find these common things on many of their products in colors that just drip with ooey gooey sweetness. Their notebooks and cards are beautiful, but, what we really are enamored with is this customizable address stamp! This stamp comes in your choice of one of 4 whimsical fonts and would be the perfect way to add your own personal flair to your next correspondence.

Calling all hipsters!  We've got just the card for you. This card features a tall emo boy and just-a-bit-too-short gal smooching in their crazy colored pants and classic Converse All Stars.  It is simply perfect and we can't imagine a better card to give your sweetie. Plus, the ladies from the Rubina Designs table were completely awesome and we can't help but love girls with a sense of humor that dig classic literature (the one girl told us her favorite book is Pride and Prejudice, one of our all time favorites, so major props for that). 

These chair necklaces, by Colleen Heineman, really rock! There is just something so fun about taking natural everyday objects and turning them into art. These are hand punched out of a sterling silver sheet and strung on delicate silver beaded chains for a modern, yet still vintage, look.  And, if you think these are great, check out her nautical knots series! We wouldn't be surprised if these were making their way to an Anthropologie near you in the near future but until that day comes let us enjoy this talented local artist while we can.  

What craft fair would be complete without unique prints for your walls?! Jason and Briana over at Brainstorm Print and Design are an extraordinarily talented (and super friendly!) duo with big ideas. We were delighted by their totally one of a kind prints, like this one above, that feature some beautiful graphics, bold messages, calming nature themes, and funky retro colors.  These inspiring and creative prints encourage us to set our worries aside, relax, and take it easy... and we couldn't be more willing to oblige.

There is just something about letterpressed invitations - the look, the feel, the history.  Whatever it is, we can't help but be drawn to beautiful things and the gorgeous stationary, by Sesame Letterpress, certainly got our attention. Sesame Letterpress, of Brooklyn, creates intricate and detailed stationary on 100% recycled cotton paper using old 19th century Victorian letterpresses.  We initially were drawn in by the colorfulletterpressed coasters , but on closer examination we fell in love with just about everything else, even their business cards, which are pretty little works of art all in themselves!!

Regardless of the situation, it's always important to stay classy.  So, if you want to call someone a "jerkface" the only appropriate thing to do is to write it in a formal letter or card, which they can hold in their hands and treasure for a lifetime.  But, in all seriousness, Blue Barnhouse is great and their cards are hilariously funny.  Why buy your average run of the mill card when you can get one with a kitschy letterpressed image and unusual and cleverly inappropriate saying??  We have no idea!  These are the perfect cards to give your girlfriends, siblings, lovers,or really anyone with a sense of humor enough to enjoy them.

 How cute!  These tree branch bud vases, by designer Jennifer Fisher, are some of the most original items that we came across in our shopping.  They are minimalist and modern, but are still semi-rustic and romantic. These bud vases are meant to hold just a couple small flowers, but even with just a few blooms, they have the power to make a huge impression. Display one solo if you're going for sleek and modern but we also enjoy the look of all three arranged as a sort of little collection to add interest and drama.

A gift without a tag is like a cupcake without icing..a total travesty. And in search of a great gift topping, we've found these fun little tags by The Small Object. Who knew that one tiny little tag could be used to serve so many different occasions? We dig things like these that are completely practical and simple but serve to display a bit of our own style and personalities. These are the perfect blend of  old fashioned etiquette and modern, personal expression that says you have a sense of humor but still appreciate the beauty and formality of tradition.

No more pencils, no more books... wait, wait... we like books! And pencils! And folders. And, actually, every kind of school supply imaginable. Call us nerds if you must, but we just love school and organization and that is why Urban Posture will round out our Top 10 picks from the Renegade Craft Fair.  They have great style and we are thoroughly enjoying their fantastic line of eco-friendly, ultra quirky, school (or office!) supplies. Being quirky is a good thing and sets you apart from the crowd, so don't be afraid to express your uniqueness, even in something as simple as a binder or folder.





Get crafty, dolls!



XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Sex and the City Character Inspiration: Carrie Bradshaw

Today's the big day, and no, we don't mean Jen's birthday (even though it is..)!!  We mean, the big day for the Sex and the City movie and of course we have saved the best character inspiration for last!  Here is a fashion look book inspired by Sex and the City's most famous character, the fabulous Carrie Bradshaw! Carrie is the center of our Sex and the City universe, and her 6 years on the small screen have transformed her into a bona fide fashion icon. A little bit quirky, a little bit crazy, and definitely a little bit sexy, Carrie is the most daring of the group, always trying (and starting) new trends. No heel is too high for this fashionista, no trend too bizarre (she rocked a fanny pack, remember?), no flower too large... Carrie is truly a fashion legend. Here are our suggestions on how to dress up like Ms. Bradshaw aka Mrs. John Preston:

Shimmering and dramatic, this Grecian style, one-shouldered dress is something only the daring fashionista can pull of. Backless and super short, this is definitely a dress that someone with a small frame like Carrie can wear without feeling too overwhelmed. 

Carrie's nameplate necklace was her signature piece on the show, and even played a small role in the series finale. Get your own name necklace, in gold or silver, from My Name Necklace, and always stay true to yourself.

Sometimes Carrie's wardrobe can be a bit outrageous, and other times it can be drop dead sexy. To go with the latter, we suggest this fabulous sequined pencil dress by Karen Millen. Just throw on a pair of sky high heels and Mr. Big will be eating out of the palm of your hands.

We can just picture Carrie romping around Manhattan in this grey, open back playsuit by Kate Moss. With a sky high ponytail, some killer sandals, and gold bangles, our girl is ready to strut her stuff.

Of course, in order to strut your stuff then you need a pair of shoes that will live up to the hype. These Badgley Mischka sandals are outrageous and romantic, just like our leading lady, and are much more affordable than Carrie's staple Manolos.

Bonjour! Carrie was all about stripes and bows when she went to Paris a few years back, and she looked effortlessly chic. To mimic Ms. Bradshaw's Parisian style, throw on this striped mini dress available at Mod Cloth, add in a bright colorful belt, heels, a ton of bangles, and don't forget to curl your hair!

and, of course, one of Carrie's most iconic looks is her cupcake skirt worn in the opening credits. While not as poofy, this ruffled skirt by American Apparel is a bit more user friendly, and still manages to create that perfect balance of cute and crazy.

Time to get Carried away, dolls!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

Ahoy there, matey!

Summer is around the corner, and the nautical look is back in fashion. But, don't fret, you don't need to own your own yacht to try out this look. It's fresh and cool without being too preppy, plus it's a really simple look to put together...no eye patches or peg legs required! All you really need is a striped shirt, some oxfords, and a blazer, and you're all set to go. Here are some must have pieces to include in your wardrobe that will have you on deck and ready to set sail this summer:

This simple boat neck striped shirt by BDG is pretty and casual. Jazz up the nautical stripes by pairing it with rolled up jeans or khaki capris, and add some gold or yellow accessories or red heels (or flip flops if you're feeling a little more laid back) for contrast.

Don't just walk the plank... strut your stuff!  These wedges by Jessica Simpson will add a pop of color to all the navy and white and we love the braided rope look on the wedge itself.  Plus, it will draw attention to your cute summer pedicure!

But if you're looking for a piece that is a little more summery, we suggest something like this nautical sun dress by O'Neill. It has a fun sea gull and sailboat print and ties in the back to give it a nice slimming fit. 

Every girl knows that a snug blazer can go a long way, and can be paired with almost anything in your wardrobe for an instantly polished look. Chart your course to style with this navy blazer by Gap! It's all about the fit, so don't be afraid to get something narrowly tailored to fit your physique. 

It's probably pretty obvious by now, but we are crazy for charm necklaces. This nautical themed necklace available at Metropark is a great look for this summer. The gold will look great with your navy pieces and the white gives it that beachy shell look that will perfectly compliment your tan.

We love this flowy striped shirt available at Mod Cloth. The stripes are subtle and the bow and peasant style sleeves are just darling!  This top makes it easy to wear the nautical look without going overboard!

Those ocean breezes are killer! To stay warm during the cool summer nights, try on this cropped nautical-inspired coat from Delia's. We love the brass buttons and the bold red stripes but what's really fantastic is it's made from sweat shirt material, so it's super comfy!

All aboard!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira