Eternal Eden

New Beginnings

2012-01-07T10:49:00.000-06:00

I don't make resolutions at New Years. But I do take an opportunity to reflect on the past year - what I've learned, the highs and lows, what I'd like to change for the coming year.

Of course I look at my business too. Where's it's been, where it's going, what's working and what's not. After spending some time in reflection I've made a few decisions about where to spend my time. I've deleted my Twitter account. I've also decided that this will be my last post on this blog. Sadly there are just not enough hours in the day to do everything I'd like to now that I'm a mom.

I'll leave this blog up but will not be adding any new content. You can still find Eternal Eden on Etsy (www.eternaleden.etsy.com) and on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/EternalEden12).

Much love to all of you!
♥ Elizabeth

Happy Holidays from Eternal Eden

2011-12-21T11:49:00.000-06:00

Wishing is all is calm and bright for you and yours this season. Merry Christmas and a joyous 2012!

♥ Elizabeth

Red, White and Blue

2011-05-30T17:32:00.000-05:00

Memorial Day. For some, a day of recreation and BBQ's, a well earned 3-day weekend to enjoy watermelon, fun in the sun, and to kick off the summer festivities. And there is nothing wrong with that. We have have so many reasons to celebrate.

But for those like me, it's a heavy holiday. For anyone with loved ones in the military it's a sobering holiday. A day to honor fallen heroes and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. A day to wonder and hope that your hero isn't the next to give all.

My sense of patriotism has always been strong, but since becoming an Army wife, it has grown exponentially. I have so much respect for all who wear a uniform, be it armed forces, firefighters, EMT's or police. Our country is built on the backs of those with the courage to fight for what isn't free - freedom.

It's inevitable that somehow this sense of pride in our country and the people who make it great has infused itself in my designs. Soon after my husband deployed my designs began to take on a patriotic, home spun feel. Maybe it wasn't what you would expect of Eternal Eden, but it felt right. I went with it.

Bow Peep Necklace

In some very small way, I hope that these little pieces of my subconscious can somehow bring honor to the lives of so many who have served. I hope that they can be a tribute and a gesture of gratitude for the BBQ's and watermelons that I can enjoy every day, because I am free.

Country Chic Earrings

Poppy Earrings

Thank you to all, past and present, who have served. We owe you everything.

♥ Elizabeth

April Showers bring Baby Showers?

2011-04-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

And May flowers too. But mostly baby showers! I love this season. My husband and I are happy to announce that we've joined the 2011 baby boom. We're expecting our first child in August and...it's a Girl! We're thrilled!!

She's a Lady, by Vanilla Extinction on Etsy

As a result, I am in full nesting mode - spring fever style - with visions of nurseries and baby showers dancing in my head. Lady bugs are my thing at the moment, aren't these beauties precious? Must find a way to incorporate them into the nursery and baby shower!

Lady Bug Ornaments by ixhop on Etsy

But we're not just nesting, we're also accessorizing! Yesterday I visited a shabby chic antique shop in Old Town Folsom called Melange and fell in love with literally everything in the shop. This place is like a pink frosting and fluffy cloud factory. Amazing! I came home with a vintage french silk baby bonnet and pink slippers for my little one.

And since fluffy-frosting-spring-fever-baby-mode is in full effect, I'm also adding some wonderful new items to my kid's shop, Eden's Angels. The latest is this cutie, Lemon Cupcake Necklace. There will be pink and fuchsia cupcake necklaces to follow.

Lemon Cupcake Necklace, by Eden's Angels on Etsy

I so wish our little one was here already for Easter, it would be so much fun to dress her up in spring pastels. Well if I can't dress mine, maybe I can dress yours? :) Have you seen this adorable gift set? These tiny earrings are so cute! And it's a great deal too.

Rosebud Earring Set, by Eden's Angels on Etsy

I do hope you are thoroughly enjoying this spring weather, surrounded by lots of joy and new life. XO from pink frosting land!

♥ Elizabeth

Mass Moving. Moving Masses. Massively Exhausted.

2011-03-18T23:49:00.003-05:00

Eternal Eden has been on the move!

Seriously. We have moved from Alabama, to Upstate New York, to California in the span of, oh about two months. Yeah, Army life is never boring! Good thing I have a portable career...sort of. I spent a small fortune shipping boxes upon boxes of product and supplies to Calfornia. All to have it rain for the first two weeks I've been here, making photography (and walking my dogs) virtually impossible.

Sigh.

No matter! I have been busy making collections of pretty Etsy things in the meantime. Check out my latest treasury called "Watery." Can you tell what inspired it? All this spring rain perhaps?

Hey, I am not complaining. Come summer I will be wishing for a little of this water that's going around to wet my parched lips. Summers here take no prisoners!

Great to be back. Some fresh new springy treats are on their way just as soon as the sun comes out!

♥ Elizabeth

Christmas Shopping!

2010-11-19T14:07:00.000-06:00

I am usually a last minute Christmas Eve shopper, frantically grabbing gifts and stuffing them into whatever kind of wrapping I can find. Not so this year. My family is facing some major changes in the new year and I decided to make things easy on myself this Christmas.

Ornaments by Alice's Looking Glass

So I turned to Etsy to find inspired handmade gifts for my family and friends. I've been so pleased with the caliber of craftsmanship and the attention to detail in each one of my purchases that I just have to share them with the world!

The majority of my shopping was done in Flying Bird Botanical's shop. The owner, Scout, has beautifully packaged organic hand-mixed loose leaf teas, and organic bath and body products. Below is her After Dinner Mint loose leaf tea, which is a gift for a special someone in my family.

I also visited Lilac Avenue's shop for handmade scented soy candles. The candle below is Christmas Tree Pine and it smells so good I want to eat it. I might just have to purchase one of these for myself!

Christmas cards were a must to go with all this handmade deliciousness, and I turned to Etc. By Christie, a brand new Etsy shop! I had the privilege of being her first sale which just gives me all kinds of chills. The gorgeous and impeccably crafted card I received gave me further chills! This card is a gift in itself.

And what is a great gift without great wrapping? Vintage Dye provided me with darling gift tags with a nice aged vintage touch. The shop owner was nice enough to make me a custom listing with the exact number of tags I needed!

All in all, my holiday shopping experience this year was the best ever. I never even had to leave the comfort of my couch and ended up with the most incredible gifts!

And in the spirit of simplification this year, I've added gift sets to Eternal Eden's product line. I've taken some of my best selling items and grouped them into coordinating handy dandy gift sets - complete with a nice discount! It's dummy-proof holiday shopping. Stop in and check them out! Gift Sets

Apricot Gift Set

English Rose Gift Set

Here's to a warm and happy Thanksgiving everyone! And take my advice, forget the mall. Spend your Black Friday weekend on Etsy! :)

♥ Elizabeth

Winter Wedding and Other Festivities

2010-11-09T09:18:00.000-06:00

Eternal Eden had a fun custom bridal order last week! Isn't red just the perfect color for a winter wedding? The rings looked so pretty together I just had to snap a photo. Can you guess whose is whose?

Meanwhile, Eden's Angels has officially launched! I'm very excited to see what direction this new venture takes. Have you checked out the new shop yet? http://www.edensangels.etsy.com

Poinsettia Headband

It's hard to believe that winter is on its way and the holidays are already upon us! I hope we can all stay sane and enjoy those special moments. Wishing you much joy and happiness in the upcoming months!

♥ Elizabeth

Thank Heaven for Little Girls

2010-10-25T14:53:00.001-05:00

You've hinted, you've suggested, you've cajoled - you've even demanded. Well at long last Eternal Eden is adding a children's line!

Vivienne Headband

This will be an entirely new shop dedicated to what little girls are made of: sugar and spice and everything nice! You'll find flower headbands, flower hair clips, and even tiny earrings! All handmade (mostly hand-sewn) with lots of love by yours truly.

Pink Starburst Headband

I've decided to call the shop Eden's Angels, and am planning the grand opening on November 1st. Just in time for the holidays!

Gwendolyn Headband

I'm so excited about this new venture! Stay tuned for more info!
♥ Elizabeth

Jewelry Display Frame

2010-10-07T11:41:00.000-05:00

What can you get with wire cutters, some spray paint and some sand paper? Why a clever little jewelry display frame, that's what!

I decided to undertake a DIY project this week after deciding that my current method of storing Eternal Eden's Earrings was less than ideal...(Picture a big shelf with a bunch of haphazard boxes and no light to see what I'm looking for).

So I grabbed an old picture frame and took some sand paper to it with a vengeance. The goal was a distressed, shabby chic look.

Then I spray painted some wire mesh a matte metallic champagne color, and used wire cutters to cut it down to the 11x14 dimensions of the frame.

Word to the wise if you decide to do this yourself...wear gloves! The wire is sharp and my little hands are paying the price today.

Last, using the frame's own metal tabs, I fastened the wire to the inside of the frame, and voila! A functional and chic jewelry display frame!

I enjoyed this project so much I'm now thinking of adding jewelry display frame's to Eternal Eden's regular inventory. If only I had the tools to make jewelry boxes too!

Until next time,
♥ Elizabeth

One year on Etsy! It's time for a BO GO Sale!

2010-09-29T07:58:00.002-05:00

One year ago today I finally decided I was brave enough to tackle the competitive online marketplace that is Etsy. Knowing jobs in this small Southern town would be scarce, I put my heart and soul into making Eternal Eden everything it could be.

Autumn Vineyard Earrings

One year later, here we are! It's been a long learning process, filled with lots of boogie men, the big bad wolf, and a few pieces of really awful jewelry, but overall I'm pretty proud of where Eternal Eden is today.

Aspen Necklace

So let's celebrate with a sale shall we? I'm hosting a one day BO GO (Buy One Get One) sale on ALL items in my shop today! You've got two options...

1) Buy One, Get One Half Off
2) Buy Three, Get One Free

You'll receive the discount off the item of equal or lesser value (We all know how this works thanks to Payless Shoe Source, don't we?) Since Etsy doesn't have a convenient way to set this up internally, I will refund your purchase via Paypal. I swear to you, by my intense paranoia of receiving nasty negative feedback that I WILL follow through with your refund :)

Sale will end at Midnight, CST so if you've got your eye on a few pieces, today is the day!

Happy Shopping!

♥ Elizabeth

Organized work space = Bliss

2010-09-14T15:17:00.000-05:00

Seriously. Bliss. Today I decided to get Eternal Eden organized!

Yesterday, The World's Best Mother in Law sent me an enormous box of semi-precious stones. It was like Christmas, no actually BETTER than Christmas. I was literally beside myself with glee!

And that's when I realized that in honor of my new semi-precious treasures, I needed to get serious about my work space. So today I trotted off to the store and finally purchased a real work desk, a lamp and a yummy scented candle. After all if I'm going to make pretty things, the room should smell just as pretty while I'm doing it, right?

And then the fun part was over and the organizing (or should I say agonizing?) began. A few hours later this pretty picture emerged:

I had this genius idea to use my photo board to "store" Eternal Eden's hair accessories. Works out so perfect, and looks so pretty on my wall too!

A place for everything, everything in its place. I even moved the printer upstairs so I can whip out shipping labels in a jiffy.

I'd say Eternal Eden is just about ready for the holiday season! Are you? ;)

♥ Elizabeth

Almost One Year on Etsy!

2010-09-05T21:56:00.000-05:00

A lot can happen in a year!

Eternal Eden's Etsy Shop is approaching its one year anniversary at the end of the month! And I'm gearing up for what promises to be a busy Fall wedding and holiday season. Exciting!

It's been an interesting year.I'd like to share a few of the lessons I've learned along the way...

1. Follow your passion. Be true to your creative voice. Don't sell out to the trends unless you feel the trends truly express you. Create what brings you joy and your enthusiasm will draw the buyers in.

2. Have a sense of urgency. When presented with a sales opportunity, jump on it, QUICK! Fast responses, quick custom orders, and fast shipping will bind your customer to you faster than you can blink.

3. Discouragement happens. Fix whatever you can and then move on. Negativity is cancer, so get over it. Just refocus and try again. Get educated, try something new. You never know down what avenue success may lie.

4. Social Networking is a powerful tool. And also a powerful waste of time unless leveraged correctly. Find the venue that works best for you and focus on that. Spreading yourself too thin over too many online portals just wastes valuable creative time.

5. Wine is the best creative lubricant. Ever. Hands down.

And now I'm off to cook up some surprises to celebrate the one year anniversary of Eternal Eden. Ciao!

♥ Elizabeth

All that Glitters

2010-08-27T15:28:00.000-05:00

My craving for cooler weather has led me to choose some lovely (and frosty) crystal pieces this week!

This Raindrops Bracelet (ah rain, please come soon!) by He Knows My Name is exactly what I needed to escape the harsh August sun and remember cooler times. So lovely and glamorous!

I am completely enamored with this Rhinestone Headband/Sash by Snow White Studio. Fashion meets function with this gorgeous duel usage accessory. It reminds me of a cold snow covered morning in the mountains...divine!

This Bridal Feather Fascinator looks soft as a pillow and glitters like ice. Bridal Couture brings the temperature down a bit with this lovely hair accessory!

I've offered my own spin on the icy glamor of crystal with my Gatsby Bridal Fascinator, new from Eternal Eden. This was a fun foray into sparkle and shine, and definitely reflects my growing weariness of the Southern heat!

Fall, my dearest Autumn, you are sorely missed. Come quickly!

♥ Elizabeth

Winery Wedding

2010-08-13T18:00:00.001-05:00

My wonderful husband and I were married at a winery almost 2 years ago. As the fall season approaches I can't help but reminisce about our perfect day.

My only regret is that I didn't know about Etsy when I was planning it! If I'd had even an inkling of the gorgeously innovative items to be found there I would have been in heaven. So I've decided to step back in time and plan my wedding, Etsy style!

I didn't have a garter toss, but this Ivory Satin Pearl Garter by Natalie Briggs would have changed my mind about that in a heartbeat. Good thing it comes with a throw away garter, because this beauty is too gorgeous to be hanging from some guy's rear view!

Our table centerpieces were grapes with fresh grape vines. Only problem was, the vines wilted within minutes of putting them on the table...Doh! If only I had known about these Wine Bottle Hurricanes by Johnny Rich 10. Talk about a wine lover's perfect centerpiece! So gorgeous.

We chose Merlot and Ivory for our wedding colors. We opted for fresh deep red roses as our cake topper, but I guarantee you I would have found a place for these adorable Love Birds by Felt Me Up Designs somewhere. Don't they just melt your heart?!

We were cheap and skipped wedding favors. Yeah I know, shame on me. Whatever. But these? These are a wedding favor I can really get excited about. Keychain Wine Cork Favors by Peanut Bearys. Total genius. I repent of my favor-less cheapness and beg forgiveness!

This has been so much fun I think I'll have to insist on a 5 year renewal ceremony so that I can incorporate all the delicious items I missed the first time around ;)

Eternal Eden is gearing up for the fall wedding season in all it's glory! Here are a couple of new highlights for fall in my shop...

Butter Cream Hair Pins - Ivory velvet hydrangea hair pins with pearl centers.

Scarlet Hair Comb - Deep red velvet hydrangea hair comb with pearl centers.

Blush Earrings - Petite champagne colored pearl earrings.

Here's to the richest most elegant fall weddings! Cheers!
♥ Elizabeth

Big. Bold. Rings.

2010-08-06T12:56:00.001-05:00

I've been on the hunt for the perfect statement ring and have been dazzled by some of the finds on Etsy! So many quirky, fun and unique pieces. Join me in throwing practicality out the window, and enjoy these dramatic cocktail rings...

First on my list is the Sono Wood Ring by Sweet Simple on Etsy. There are so many things to love about this ring - the colors, the textures, the modern edge. I especially love the weighty, solid feel of this piece.

You'll be hard pressed to find more unique jewelry on Etsy than at Star of the East. This breathtaking Sea Urchin Ring is simply perfection. Pure white shell, warm antique copper, big impact.

Carved Turquoise? Didn't even know it was possible, but SO glad it is because this Arizona Carved Turquoise Ring by Club Gem is exquisite! I love the cushion-y illusion the carving gives.

This next fanciful find is just pure imaginative fun. This Kawaii Japanese Ring by Sou Zou Creations is the best way to wear your morning coffee!

Indulge your love affair with butterflies with this Monarch Butterfly Ring by Jennifer's Family Jewels. Made with real feathers, this ring is not only unique but incredibly beautiful.

And now if you'll allow a little shameless self-promotion, I'd like to showcase one of my own big and bold rings! Red Dahlia Cocktail Ring by Eternal Eden makes a vivid and velvety statement!

Wearable art? Yes! This Explode Ring by Broken Fingers Art is a hand drawn design that is absolutely exploding with originality!

This icy, crunchy Cocktail Ring by Lean Dog Pottery looks good enough to drink! So unique and completely one of a kind. One of my favorites...

And last (not least), this Old Fashioned Bicycle Ring by The River is Everywhere is anything but out-of-date! I'm so in love with the gorgeous green patina and delicate detail of this quirky ring. Brilliant!

I hope you've enjoyed these gorgeously eccentric finds. Until next time...
♥ Elizabeth

Shelter from the Swelter!

2010-07-19T16:58:00.001-05:00

It is HOT! And humid, and the pool is 90 degrees...Frankly I just need to cool off! What better way to do that than to feed my growing obsession with the sweet soothing color of mint green? Yes. That sounds perfectly refreshing!

First I think I'll give myself a pedi with this Peppermint Foot Soak from BL Soaps and some nice cool water. Doesn't that look divine?

While my kickers soak, I'll light a Soy Aromatherapy Candle from Man in the Moon Herbs and breathe in the revitalization. Love the peppermint eucalyptus combination!

After I'm done with the pampering I'll slip into this vintage gem, a Cool Cotton Summer Dress from Revolving Styles. I feel so much cooler already...

And to complete the ensemble, a little of my own Mint Julep because it's my favorite new item in my Etsy Shop right now, and I'm pretty sure it brings my body temperature down a few degrees just by looking at it! :)

I hope everyone is a little more refreshed after enjoying these lovely finds. Stay cool!

♥ Elizabeth

Mermaids, Peacocks and Sugar Plums

2010-06-27T12:52:00.001-05:00

I decided to spend part of my lazy Sunday making an Etsy treasury. It's turned out to be quite a delight and I want to share it with you! Enjoy :)

♥ Elizabeth

Click the link below to view:

Mermaids, Peacocks, and Sugar Plums

Celebrating a Milestone!

2010-05-10T09:35:00.003-05:00

It's been a busy spring for Eternal Eden! There have been an influx of sales from my Artfire Shop recently which is great! What's even better is that I am about to hit a huge milestone in my Etsy Shop - 100 sales!

I want to thank everyone who has supported Eternal Eden from the bottom of my heart. I have the most amazing family and friends who have encouraged me to keep pushing toward my goals and have actively helped me to get there. I am truly humbled and grateful for your generosity!

To celebrate this milestone, I am giving away a free pair of Eternal Eden earrings! Simply "Like" Eternal Eden's Facebook Page and you're automatically entered to win the pair of earrings below!

Want to be my 100th Etsy sale? Yes you do! Why? Because my 100th Etsy buyer will receive this lovely hair piece (pictured below) as a gift with purchase! Head on over to Eternal Eden's Etsy Shop to make your purchase now!

I am looking forward to what the future holds for Eternal Eden. Thank you once again to everyone who has supported me with your purchases and promoted Eternal Eden on Facebook, Twitter, and in person. You guys are the BEST!!

♥ Elizabeth

Happy Birthday Elmo!

2010-02-22T10:36:00.001-06:00

Today I am a proud Furmama to a one year old mini dachshund! My little puppy Elmo has been blessing this earth with cuteness, laughter, and joy for a whole year today!

And what a year it has been. This little dog has been carted across the country - twice - and probably seen more states than most people have. He's been on emergency vet visits for everything from allergic reactions to a dog bite, and come out with the battle scars to prove it. And he's most definitely chewed his way through almost everything we own.

But most of all, he's stolen our hearts. I never thought of myself as a dog person until we adopted Elmo. Now I find myself watching The Dog Whisperer, planning my day around dog walks, and cutting my social engagements short to get home to my little man.

I am so blessed to have two amazing men in my life - and one just happens to be an 11 pound fur ball with the cutest face on the planet. So here's to Elmo, the big dog in a little dog's body...May you live many more healthy and happy years with us! We love you!

♥ Elizabeth

Eternal Eden's Blogspot gets a Makeover!

2010-02-17T08:46:00.002-06:00

Every girl loves a makeover! Sometimes you just need to change something - even if it is just the color of your hair or eyeshadow. I made myself over not too long ago, went from blonde to brunette all because of a tiny little thing called a birthday...

While Eternal Eden's makeover is not motivated by crisis, it is motivated by a desire to make this blog the best it can be: A sweet little oasis of beauty in a world sometimes lacking it.

I have a fascination with cherry blossoms. Their delicate, porcelain grace and vulnerable beauty has always spoken to my heart. That's one of the reasons I created these lovely little Cherry Blossom Earrings.

So when I ran across this template with these gorgeous blues and pinks and a slight vintage feel, it was love at first sight! Many thanks to Emporium Digital for designing this amazing template.

I hope everyone is enjoying their short work week :) Feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you think of the makeover!

♥ Elizabeth

Le Printemps est Arrivé!

2010-02-03T08:43:00.006-06:00

Ok so, yes I know spring has NOT in fact arrived. And I do believe our little friend the groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter yesterday...But no matter! In my happy little Neverland (aka my work studio) spring has indeed arrived!

I've been working on some hair pieces recently, which means every flat surface in my Neverland is overflowing with gorgeous silk flowers right now. They looked so pretty I had to snap a few pictures!

And then of course I had to make something with these pretties! Using buttons from my mom's vintage button collection that she gave me (talk about gold mine!) I created these little darlings...

I am having so much fun with this little project, I think I might just have to keep expanding this section of my shop! Happy un-Spring everyone!

♥ Elizabeth

Delicious Blueberry Scones

2010-01-30T15:06:00.005-06:00

I've become skeptical of online recipes recently. The last few left me with hockey pucks masquerading as snickerdoodles, and a chicken entree that found its home in the trash.

But today I found the most delicious recipe for blueberry scones! They were fluffy, moist, delicious little bits of carb heaven! Yes, I know this has nothing to do with jewelry or Etsy - and I'm ok with that :) Here is the recipe I used with my own personal tweaks added...

Blueberry Scones with Vanilla Glaze

Recipe courtesy Tyler Florence, Foodnetwork.com

Ingredients

Blueberry Scones:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoons sugar
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut in chunks
1 cup heavy cream, plus more for brushing the scones
1 cup fresh blueberries

Glaze:
1/2 cup milk

2 cups confectioners' sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.

Sift together the dry ingredients; the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Using 2 forks or a pastry blender, cut in the butter to coat the pieces with the flour. The mixture should look like coarse crumbs. Make a well in the center and pour in the heavy cream and vanilla. Fold everything together just to incorporate; do not overwork the dough. Fold the blueberries into the batter. Take care not to mash or bruise the blueberries.

Press the dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12 by 3 by 1 1/4 inches. Cut the rectangle in 1/2 then cut the pieces in 1/2 again, giving you 4 (3-inch) squares. Cut the squares in 1/2 on a diagonal to give you the classic triangle shape.

Place the scones on an ungreased cookie sheet and brush the tops with a little heavy cream. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until beautiful and brown. Let the scones cool a bit before you apply the glaze.

Mix the milk, vanilla and confectioners' sugar together. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Add melted butter. Whisk the glaze to smooth out any lumps, then drizzle the glaze over the top of the scones.

Cyber Monday Sale and Giveaway!

2010-01-25T08:33:00.001-06:00

Today is a good day!

I'm so excited about Eternal Eden's stellar review on The Ivy Twines, that I've decided to do a special Cyber Monday BOGO sale just for my readers, today only - January 25th! Buy one get one half off! Just enter the phrase "The Ivy Twines" in your note to seller and I'll refund via Paypal.

As if that wasn't enough, if you visit today's post on The Ivy Twines you can get details on how to win a FREE pair of Eternal Eden earrings! Are you feeling the love? I know I am!

Speaking of love, Valentine's Day is quickly approaching. If you see something you love, why not treat yourself? Or even drop your honey a little hint...These beauties are limited edition and won't be around for long!

A BIG thank you to Bethany of The Ivy Twines for the fabulous review and giveaway! xoxo

♥ Elizabeth

Take me out to the Fair...The Antique Fair that is!

2010-01-12T12:23:00.013-06:00

This Sunday I had the pleasure of attending the Antique Fair in downtown Sacramento, with the fabulous Charles and Kari Shipman!

Kari runs an incredibly successful fashion blog and consulting business called Juniper James. This isn't your run of the mill fashion blog though - Kari is passionate about thrifting, and shows you how to leverage your dollars by shopping at thrift stores. Check her out at http://www.juniperjames.wordpress.com/

So other than the fact that it was freezing and the boots I wore were much too high for walking on asphalt for two hours, I had such an incredible time! I felt like a kid on Christmas. There were so many painfully gorgeous pieces with history, personality and charm. It was hard not to buy everything!

This lovely set of teacups and saucers made my heart stop. So beautiful and delicate, even with a small chip. I hope they found a good home.

This mini-billboard (maybe 24x36) was just too awesome for words. If my kitchen wasn't so tiny, and it wouldn't cost me a fortune to ship it home to Alabama, this would be mine! Gallo Winery is in Sonoma, California and they make fantastic wines. My little wino self had a hard time passing this one up.

And what's an antique fair without a $65 six pack of coke?

Just. Plain. Humorous. "For medicinal and family use." Really? Hmmm...Genius! Because if we're honest about the real reasons one drinks whiskey, this label about sums it up. Don't you think?

But here are the real treasures, the only things I actually went home with. I practically had fire alarms going off in my head when I laid eyes on these. Oh the possibilities! I absolutely cannot WAIT to use these vintage glass briolettes in my designs. What a find!

A big thank you to Kari Shipman of Juniper James, for inviting me on this fun little outing!

Three Reasons Why I Love Etsy

2010-01-09T01:46:00.003-06:00

I truly believe Etsy is on the cusp of a social and cultural movement. The longer I've been a part of the Etsy family, the more I feel there is something big happening here. Here's why:

1. Real accountability: I feel a personal obligation to my customer. I treat each piece with so much care, from the design to the packaging, because I care about my customer. I also know they have power to positively or negatively affect my business. It keeps sellers in check and on their toes in a way that's not possible with big corporations.

2. Personal Touch: When I make a purchase off of Etsy I know that a real person has handled and created the item. I know that they created it because it expresses a part of who they are. And I get the privilege to own that. Amazing. Conversely, when I sell an item on Etsy I get the chance to connect with my customer, hear a bit of their story, and start to form a relationship in a real and genuine way. You just can't find that freedom in the business world.

3. Creative Expression: Etsy literally gives hundreds of thousands of people an outlet to express and support themselves with creativity - something that is so healthy and vital to our happiness and growth as human beings. I believe creativity nourishes us on a soul level. Etsy gives us a platform to support that growth.

There are many other reasons, but those are definitely my top three. So what do you think? Why do YOU love Etsy?

♥ Elizabeth

2010 is almost here!

2009-12-31T11:05:00.005-06:00

I'm celebrating my New Year in Sacramento, California this year. I'll be in front of a big fireplace with a bottle of fruit forward Terra D'Oro Barbera from Amador County! I can't think of a better way to celebrate the new year. I love wine...

I'd love to hear what everyone else has planned. How have you decided to spend your New Year?

However you're celebrating, I'd like to wish you a very Happy New Year! May 2010 bring you blessings, peace and prosperity.

♥ Elizabeth

Velvet Rose

2009-12-16T11:02:00.005-06:00

I've always been fascinated with velvet - the texture, the mood it conjures, and of course the deep rich reds that characterize the gorgeous fabric.

Recently I ran across some velvet roses in the craft store and I had that special creative tingle that told me I needed to take them home because something beautiful was about to be birthed.

Scarlett - Designing this necklace was such a pleasure! Some pieces are a struggle. From the design to the photography they give me fits, but not this necklace. Everything just flowed perfectly...

Chianti - Bright red and slightly piquant, like the wine itself! This bracelet conjures the joy and romance of the holidays, and looks just gorgeous on the wrist.

Bordeax - This is such a deep rich bracelet, much like the wine it's named after. These dark reds just evoke so much mystery, perfect for the winter season!

I hope everyone is having a safe and happy holiday season! Warmest wishes to you and your family.

♥ Elizabeth

Belle Noir

2009-12-06T22:06:00.001-06:00

The weather has suddenly turned much colder in my part of the country. My husband and I have been enjoying hot cocoa, fuzzy slippers, and the warm glow of Christmas lights. Somehow my state of mind always seems to make its way into my designs, and true to form, the cloudy days and cold nights have turned my creative eye to gunmetal and jewel tones.

Raven - I am so attracted to the sleek smooth look of gunmetal. It's rich, refined, and understated all at once. I stumbled across this acrylic black rose while shopping for supplies the other day. I wasn't convinced I really wanted it until I glanced down into my basket and saw it lying next to this gorgeous gunmetal feather. Happy creative accidents are my favorite!

Intrigued? See more of Raven here

Sienna - Estate style jewelry is a rising trend that has really started to resonate with me recently. I love the opulent feel of the oversized jewels that characterize this trend - even if they're just faceted glass like this one. My favorite thing about this necklace is the juxtaposition of the rich amber against the cool gunmetal, but I also love the modern twist that the thicker chain adds. Such a lovely piece!

Meet Sienna here

Valentina - The inspiration for the construction of this piece came to me once again in the middle of the night. I knew I wanted to use this unique gunmetal filigree stamping with this gorgeous purple jewel, but I couldn't quite figure out how to make it all come together. Suddenly the image just appeared right in front of my eyes. Three chains on each side stretching up to one point with another touch of purple. After a lot of tweaking and tinkering to get the lengths right, the result was a breathtaking and avante garde piece that I really can't take my eyes off of.

Meet Valentina here

If this little trip to the darker side lasts, I foresee many more mysterious pieces to come!

♥ Elizabeth

Black Friday through Cyber Monday - Super Fantasic Sale!

2009-11-22T20:13:00.005-06:00

Oh yes, I've gone and done it. I'm taking 20% off my already probably too low prices for you - yeah you! Why? Because I love Christmas, I love making jewelry, and if you're reading this right now, I love you! And let's face it. The economy has been none too kind to most of us lately, so I think we can all use a break!

So here's how it's going to work: Starting Black Friday (Nov. 27) and running through Cyber Monday (Nov. 30), all items in my Etsy shop will be 20% off. And I'm not stopping there! Free shipping for friends and family - woot! I'll refund you the shipping via Paypal after your purchase.

That's what happens when you're in tight with the designer. Bam. Good deals.

If for some reason you don't have Paypal or don't want to do the internet thing, just contact me and we'll work something out. Chances are, I know where you live so I'm not worried about non-payment ;) Hehe.

Happy Shopping! www.eternaleden.etsy.com

♥ Elizabeth

Vintage Style Lovelies

2009-11-21T12:06:00.008-06:00

Ok, yes I admit it. I love vintage. I love the word itself, all the images it conjures, the way it rolls off the tongue. If I could time travel back into the 30's or 40's I totally would just to wear all those gorgeous clothes! Well since I'm a lousy seamstress, I made a couple adorable necklaces instead. Ha.

Madalynn (sold out)- I named this necklace after my late Grandma Corrington. She was such a hoot. Theatrical, dramatic, even a little rebellious. I'll always remember her bright red lipstick, fake eyelashes and fantastic wigs. Hmmm, that must be where I get my own love of the aforementioned - it's genetic! It's all starting to make sense now...

Amaranthine Rose (sold out) - Yup, throwing in another definition here. I like words, get used to it.

a.ma.ran.thine

-adjective

1. of or like the amaranth
2. unfading; everlasting: a woman of amaranthine loveliness.
3. of purplish-red color.

Pick any of those three meanings and I think this necklace could personify them. I adore everything about this piece. The color of the beads is such a gorgeous antique plum! I love the smoothness of the antique brass flower, the way it adds just enough vintage charm without seeming dated. Yeah it won't be easy to let go of this one...

Amaranthine Roses - I loved the necklace so much I made matching earrings. Kind of a new thing for me since I'm not a huge fan of too much matchy matchy. They really look phenomenal together though!

Even more unfading loveliness here!

Don't worry, many more vintage lovelies to come!

♥ Elizabeth

Filigree Fanatic!

2009-11-21T09:56:00.016-06:00

fil.i.gree
-noun

1. delicate ornamental work of fine silver, gold, or other metal wires, esp. lacy jewelers' work of scrolls and arabesques.
2. anything very delicate or fanciful: a filigree of frost.

********************************************

Delicate, ornamental, fanciful and just plain gorgeous - I can't get enough of filigree!! I think my special love of filigree came from my Dad. Shocking, I know.

Back when he was in college, my Grandma gave him a box of four silver plastic filigree ornaments for his Christmas tree. He kept them forever. I don't remember a single Christmas from my childhood that my Dad didn't insist on hanging all four ornaments himself. What a tough guy... ;)

Juliette (sold out)- This necklace literally takes my breath away. I honestly don't know if I can bear to sell it. Juliette is everything that is soft and feminine: Ballet, lace, pastel pink, roses, pearls. Just unabashed girliness and romance all wrapped up in one delicate necklace. Yeah, I'm in love.

Cranberry Cocktail - (sold out) This necklace looks tasty enough to drink! I just love the gorgeous ruby red beads of this necklace, especially because I had to bargain for them. Yep. Half the strand was missing but I knew they were perfect for my vision of this necklace so I wheeled and dealed and got 'em on sale and half off. Oh yeah.

This is another necklace I love so much I don't even want to sell. Seriously - I need to get over that. But I mean just look at it! Bright red, sparkly, full of festive cheeriness, and just perfect for that holiday formal or cocktail party. What's not to love?

Queen Anne - I may have gone a little over the top on this one but I don't care, it was too pretty not to make. This necklace is an ornate Victorian style explosion of filigree fanciness. The ivory rose cabochon came to me all the way from South Korea. I was so impatient to get it, I stalked the mailman for 2 weeks! I realize this necklace isn't for the faint of heart, but do you think Queen Anne or Queen Elizabeth were faint of heart? I think not!

Pay homage to Queen Anne here

There is no way I have exhausted my fancy for filigree yet, so be assured you will see much, much more in the future!

♥ Elizabeth

Coming out of the Cocoon

2009-11-21T08:47:00.004-06:00

The butterfly motif is popping up a lot in my designs these days. Believe it or not, I found these gorgeous butterflies in the necklaces below at Walmart...they used to be earrings...Ssshhh don't tell!

Moonlight Sonata - (sold out) This necklace literally came to me in the middle of the night. All of a sudden *poof* I could see it plain as day in my mind's eye. And it just wouldn't go away. So I had to make it.

One word to describe the way this necklace makes me feel when I wear it is: Elegant.

Midnight Mariposa - Besides butterflies, I'm also really into asymmetrical necklace designs lately. I just love the look. This necklace is near and dear to my heart because it's so delicate and I'm completely in love with the frosty green rondelles. It was also a royal pain in the arse to make - the chain refused to cooperate with me!

See more of this necklace here!

Be on the lookout for more butterflies in the future...I'm sure there are even more creative cocoons waiting to open!

♥ Elizabeth

Welcome to Eternal Eden's Blogspot!

2009-10-26T14:06:00.008-05:00

Welcome to my Garden of Handmade Jewelry Treasures!!

I decided to take a chance and create my own bliss! I've always been a very creative person and have never been happy working a desk job. Recently I had the chance to stay at home and forge my own path, so here I am!

Eternal Eden was created first and foremost to honor God, my Creator and Savior. I am so inspired by the beauty of His creation that I can't help but try to reflect it in my creations - whether it be oil pastels, writing, or handmade jewelry.

Eternal Eden was created secondly, well...let's be honest - to keep me busy and productive with something I actually enjoy doing. Imagine that!

What will follow is the creative journey I've been on since I decided to take a risk and do something unconventional with my work life. I hope you enjoy my little garden of (sometimes not so) bliss!!

♥ Elizabeth