Open House Tomorrow

I've been busy as a little bee here in WI.  Buzzing around, tying up loose ends, putting up my table, re-arranging, trying different things and creating special designs that are going to be debuted live & in person at my first Open House - TOMORROW!  I'm extremely excited and very greatful to my friend Carol for asking me to be part of the open house. 

While I don't strive for perfection most of the time I think I'm almost ready!  YEAH!  I've made sure all of my designs are well labeled so people know what quality materials I use and the size of the necklaces, bracelets & anklets.  With people starting their Christmas shopping, I think that knowing sizes of things really helps people to have an easier time buying jewelry as a gift.

I can't wait to meet new people from my area, and see some that I haven't seen for a while!  Should be a grand time and I'm looking forward to sharing my custom designs with an audience that has yet to experience Designs by Dawn Marie!

Wish me luck!
{Hugs!}

Up-Cycled Beaded Jewelry Set

So many of us have pieces of jewelry laying around that we aren't wearing anymore, or they've gone out of style, or they're treasures we collected that are attached to memories.  Such is the case for these lovely strands of sea shells.

The story behind these itty bitty sea shells...

Years ago my Aunt Diane took a trip to Kauai, Hawaii.  It was a wonderful trip that she'll cherish forever.  As her momento, she brought back these lovely sea shells.  While they are the perfect souvenir, it wasn't practical to wear on a daily basis.


A short bit of time ago, Aunt Diane won my un-announced contest on a family blog we run for the 300th post.  Yes, I have a big enough family that we all contribute to a family blog to stay in touch with each other on a more regular basis.  We don't let our distance keep us a part.  So for posting our 300th post I announced Aunt Diane had won and I was going to make her a special bracelet.


But rather than making something new, Aunt Diane asked if I could "do something" with these sea shells.  I love a challenge and was tickled she asked.  So she sent me the sea shells (and some absolutely delicious homemade caramels) and gave me free reign to do whatever I wanted.


I started with the necklace and was inspired by the tropical colors of the painted abalone pendant.  Sea shells were the perfect compliment to make a special piece.  But I can't stop at a necklace... after all, I had promised her a bracelet.  So I completed the set with a 4-strand sea shell bracelet and matching earrings. 

Here's my finished products!  I'm so excited for Aunt Diane to receive her package.  As a *Bonus* this year our family Christmas has the theme "Christmas in Hawaii!"  So I'm hoping the extra sea shell bling will accessorize Aunt Diane perfectly!  Love you Auntie D!

{Hugs!}
~Dawn