tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67229506065971383812024-03-20T07:57:54.838-04:00Lofted Designs :: Unique Handcrafted JewelryThis blog takes you up to the loft (Lori's studio) where the magic happens and provides a behind-the-scenes look at Lofted Designs jewelry. Learn about upcoming projects, creative inspirations and how one-of-a-kind pieces come together. Feedback and comments welcome!Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.comBlogger127125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-46527241332938664282016-11-30T13:30:00.001-05:002016-12-01T10:30:07.610-05:00Ocean Fire Pottery Holiday Extravaganza Weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I participated in two amazing craft fairs this past weekend, and I have two more coming up! </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to everyone who came out to shop at the brand new </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/634453990063561/" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Etsy Maine Team Artisan Fair</a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> at the Brick Store Museum in Kennebunk, Maine! Thank you also to the HUGE CROWDS shopping </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1260515670687986/" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Craft Fix</a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> at Buoy in Kittery this year -- that fair, now in its 8th year, never fails to astound me with the most talented, kind artists and supportive customers around. I am so grateful to have participated in both of these shows!</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/103707866780981/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwI0t1CvODL2IOaRcNsJYmf_YG-veY0Q0MpLIFyckXWM2xAjrOECVlRwMivvHA_Fz-eKvOfIo7BYwb1YJuZlba2HyMLMXqfEL20lYEpL0tl1wZe59rll8LwBDhUNO7e5ivTzjXjnJ9PoI/s320/OFP-Extravaganza.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Coming right up, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/103707866780981/" target="_blank">Ocean Fire Pottery's Holiday Extravaganza</a> is this weekend, also celebrating its 8th year! I love participating in this event and am honored to have a spot in Amy Clark's pottery studio on <b>Saturday, December 3rd from 10am to 5pm</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Amy will host different artists in her studio each day, Friday through Sunday, featuring her own stunning pottery plus jewelry, candles, body scrubs, cards, calendars, driftwood gifts, coasters and other home decor. Other activities include <b>mini-lessons on the pottery wheel</b> (for adults and kids!), raffles, wood-fired kiln opening (check out Amy's incredible backyard pottery kiln), chair massages and refreshments each day. Don't miss this one! </span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Artists throughout the weekend include:</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Amy Clark of <a href="http://oceanfirepottery.com/" target="_blank">Ocean Fire Pottery</a> - (our fearless host) handcrafted, wheel-thrown gifts</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://glowbodywork.com/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">GLOW - A Holistic Wellness Studio</a> - Chair massages all weekend. Treat yourself!</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Becky Louison of </span><a href="http://hoppyhippy.com/beckylouisonartist/" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Hoppy + Hippy</a><span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Cherie Herne & Cheryl Patten of </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SaltyGirlandLongDog" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: center;" target="_blank">Salty Girl and Long Dog</a><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; text-align: center;">Sam Goodall</span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">E</span><span style="text-align: center;">llen Braley of <a href="https://www.elscards.com/" target="_blank">El's Cards</a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Erin Donovan of <a href="http://www.vesselandco.com/" target="_blank">Vessel and Co </a></span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;">Ellen Lamoureaux</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: center;"><b>Here's a sneak peek:</b></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXh1F183a66E7khUAvLntUQaz4FqUD6-yYcseEYgy1uZkY4NPTguT92YBqjYWDsmTYDPJZpGaXIVQdciwH5v31oAIs-KMcDXkxmIHjSw8kEFU7vW2t3oIbsPPYINyY4zNQiaZA8mgmg2c/s400/LoftedDesigns-Etsy-2016.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my latest Lofted Designs creations</td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6LIdZ-vgRW8fqoSYPnqrzNbIadibcogBlmbuxBoA6th-NtW61dJTJ79Co5fXutRCWdj-pGrWg6RXJzsObJwJPe1R2SgRvOYsm7TR0rZ_6tBAnZ-fRDxtcRumJfjMU482Ew63px9R90g/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-12-01+at+10.23.20+AM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh6LIdZ-vgRW8fqoSYPnqrzNbIadibcogBlmbuxBoA6th-NtW61dJTJ79Co5fXutRCWdj-pGrWg6RXJzsObJwJPe1R2SgRvOYsm7TR0rZ_6tBAnZ-fRDxtcRumJfjMU482Ew63px9R90g/s320/Screen+Shot+2016-12-01+at+10.23.20+AM.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.800000190734863px;">Ocean Fire Pottery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO5Pz7mxi9xLLINvNEMvqyEFX2oeFd-yfvaYd7hEHGKBt_811pPbyhCNxD2jkKXGXcYqqNIWpF24EcbGOufV7cdPZHIcXLDdej4Z_bPTnHaU0aCrRF_NkiNVVRBZs1SEduJKfQfZreYc/s1600/Salty+girl+and+long+dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyO5Pz7mxi9xLLINvNEMvqyEFX2oeFd-yfvaYd7hEHGKBt_811pPbyhCNxD2jkKXGXcYqqNIWpF24EcbGOufV7cdPZHIcXLDdej4Z_bPTnHaU0aCrRF_NkiNVVRBZs1SEduJKfQfZreYc/s320/Salty+girl+and+long+dog.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salty Girl & Long Dog</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KW-WI3GW8DPrV3TuWxxB9T10Nvt5YP_h4DOy4iKusnIEKO2EmWTb3rNdTt585Qi13MXug6UHANyR_FUkJ8bwBXa2SS_QAk9GG0W-U4fQbxtzsUO6V_cXo7IyYxr2Coz2CzYScgFg8Cg/s1600/OFP-pots.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5KW-WI3GW8DPrV3TuWxxB9T10Nvt5YP_h4DOy4iKusnIEKO2EmWTb3rNdTt585Qi13MXug6UHANyR_FUkJ8bwBXa2SS_QAk9GG0W-U4fQbxtzsUO6V_cXo7IyYxr2Coz2CzYScgFg8Cg/s320/OFP-pots.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ocean Fire Pottery</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxe_BUfskdrxEyGwJGs1z_tD30q9TpCnD3xLnnuh8Zc5YQBj8j0ZNlA3DkMQudeoIeW6FZ4a5qO73yDOYF7M7YgXKdNziTWo64EC6UXm8FmG4XFveqTWgyf_BL7iT-TUKCvEc9oZMyAZk/s1600/VesselandCo-Candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxe_BUfskdrxEyGwJGs1z_tD30q9TpCnD3xLnnuh8Zc5YQBj8j0ZNlA3DkMQudeoIeW6FZ4a5qO73yDOYF7M7YgXKdNziTWo64EC6UXm8FmG4XFveqTWgyf_BL7iT-TUKCvEc9oZMyAZk/s320/VesselandCo-Candle.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vessel and Co</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK279i1Dwkl9LzNxYBRwzRG6ZvlgwMmGow2vFY6LlepFbLSnFlBqt0TNlCmM3x4imU-BsZqbEYR5odqtZfnNbVNQU5fprJbFplMC4xQkxlNZAEXJilOSdl0i9zrQjwi40Qvn0kyCwKnLg/s1600/VesselandCo-Cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK279i1Dwkl9LzNxYBRwzRG6ZvlgwMmGow2vFY6LlepFbLSnFlBqt0TNlCmM3x4imU-BsZqbEYR5odqtZfnNbVNQU5fprJbFplMC4xQkxlNZAEXJilOSdl0i9zrQjwi40Qvn0kyCwKnLg/s320/VesselandCo-Cards.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vessel and Co</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6S_CAGrdEQFLl7MjZXTBfgt-_Z6gbuFY0OgeX7vj3XbFBk0hqEF-DmY9_cgrUHyFFPRu4F_G3EqN16rHMvQ7po2C4aQhsNCbLvsadr9OAsaajtu1Q64CVjSEhYlm2AxL92IVzzXdr9qo/s1600/El%2527sCards-Calendars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6S_CAGrdEQFLl7MjZXTBfgt-_Z6gbuFY0OgeX7vj3XbFBk0hqEF-DmY9_cgrUHyFFPRu4F_G3EqN16rHMvQ7po2C4aQhsNCbLvsadr9OAsaajtu1Q64CVjSEhYlm2AxL92IVzzXdr9qo/s320/El%2527sCards-Calendars.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">El's Cards</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoshYmyjx83A2d7ZXjzf5SSA6GobtSiGRPeWRAWM7EGrpYpn0VekK-BQTH2WUacmVeO9UWIHJNIhk7pS3TWc93ABv64KUQozXMg09NqSS07meQ2Tcj0WRmGBO9A9-MExBXE5mtey7Vx-o/s1600/saltygirllongdog-sign-shelf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoshYmyjx83A2d7ZXjzf5SSA6GobtSiGRPeWRAWM7EGrpYpn0VekK-BQTH2WUacmVeO9UWIHJNIhk7pS3TWc93ABv64KUQozXMg09NqSS07meQ2Tcj0WRmGBO9A9-MExBXE5mtey7Vx-o/s320/saltygirllongdog-sign-shelf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Salty Girl & Long Dog</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwD56lZPjJOVfj_bhcQspobH5PD-YEJG9nDlj-wTj-crChpwD-ym_urHfxY-2r8NlG8FSwrbPkg5tJmtkf03aYeydXjHrqIyfvbqP4v0rKqR7gzKsOlFOtUjYS6jUXQJONpuC1Sx7mzPo/s1600/OFP-mugs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwD56lZPjJOVfj_bhcQspobH5PD-YEJG9nDlj-wTj-crChpwD-ym_urHfxY-2r8NlG8FSwrbPkg5tJmtkf03aYeydXjHrqIyfvbqP4v0rKqR7gzKsOlFOtUjYS6jUXQJONpuC1Sx7mzPo/s320/OFP-mugs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ocean Fire Pottery</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The event runs in conjunction with the <b>Festival of Lights </b>in York Village, and is a quick walk around the corner from festivities</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> including the Festival of "Fostering" Trees, Festival of Lights Parade (Saturday), 12th Annual Gingerbread House Festival & Santa Claus at the library and <b><a href="http://www.thecenterforwildlife.org/upcoming-events" target="_blank">Center for Wildlife's Holiday Bazaar</a> </b>(Saturday: I've donated some jewelry to this event and all proceeds go to wildlife care!).</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-90415002039820060342016-09-29T20:34:00.000-04:002016-09-29T20:38:23.327-04:00Read the Etsy Shop Review That Made Me BlushEach Etsy customer has the opportunity to leave a review after making a purchase. There is a 1-5 star rating system, and an optional text box for additional comments. I recently read through some reviews that came in over the summer and WOW...I have some of the nicest customers EVER.<br />
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It's so awesome when people take the extra time to leave a comment, especially when they are so happy with the quality of the products and my customer service.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vmvtbUQaf5_PSEdQOjqlzGcZ15CVOrLnLVD27dX1z_X4i2KXBj-Y8KeeHdkWMYIH06uDsdeaFt2ASBiLc82REbzJCIhjO5a7FsqbRHwdkHNauWunNAp7F6ds90biagRyKc3AJeoe_cQ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.11.03+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vmvtbUQaf5_PSEdQOjqlzGcZ15CVOrLnLVD27dX1z_X4i2KXBj-Y8KeeHdkWMYIH06uDsdeaFt2ASBiLc82REbzJCIhjO5a7FsqbRHwdkHNauWunNAp7F6ds90biagRyKc3AJeoe_cQ/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.11.03+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Yes, it's true...if you tell me your order is a birthday gift and you need it by a specific date, you'd better believe I will do everything in my power to get it to you on time! I will often include a gift note or even gift wrap your item free of charge (if you ask nicely).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGfTBsZBhrFqs7F0WRHonedZ2i25kMLjo1yGwMoPtLdh5rLz5MrU4HhPyVTl2M507sxJuPxlOPyGzX_RbdcP_eFRrCQpCW5xPK2t5_q4c2xy2JbK35LM1dg1N5NX7dTs8LCk2hVXbIoc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.10.28+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHGfTBsZBhrFqs7F0WRHonedZ2i25kMLjo1yGwMoPtLdh5rLz5MrU4HhPyVTl2M507sxJuPxlOPyGzX_RbdcP_eFRrCQpCW5xPK2t5_q4c2xy2JbK35LM1dg1N5NX7dTs8LCk2hVXbIoc/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.10.28+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This reviewer was kind enough to comment on the craftsmanship and style of my handmade earrings, as well as my packaging and speedy shipping. Awesome! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22f7go_-wDHYsAerIT_1wB7Zbt5ON99IIAHXIcwwrUvILH5LDGrcrD5KCCuQhzioeDydKXxl8SPI3Q0kFVjGXmH26sEBrCVARTUJU76435wBpo6HOy3APDYDndCc9s7FckdFvP05yzx0/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.21.22+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22f7go_-wDHYsAerIT_1wB7Zbt5ON99IIAHXIcwwrUvILH5LDGrcrD5KCCuQhzioeDydKXxl8SPI3Q0kFVjGXmH26sEBrCVARTUJU76435wBpo6HOy3APDYDndCc9s7FckdFvP05yzx0/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.21.22+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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What?? That order was an engagement ring?! That's pretty much the best compliment a jeweler can receive...to know your piece was selected as a symbol of commitment to hopefully be worn until the end of time. Incredibly special.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_X_5ymsc-ffgG7jW592uh-VVPPCiUxeHXfuoxXNq6-vUX8tiCe05gGyL2QKrrjCGi5syoxT0WYA-cPurlFHdtMXoa5VOb7iBUuwGu28L9io6zpL5dbjy-zzpxgF0b5POM5xwum4OqM4/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.23.32+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1_X_5ymsc-ffgG7jW592uh-VVPPCiUxeHXfuoxXNq6-vUX8tiCe05gGyL2QKrrjCGi5syoxT0WYA-cPurlFHdtMXoa5VOb7iBUuwGu28L9io6zpL5dbjy-zzpxgF0b5POM5xwum4OqM4/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.23.32+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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This repeat customer's review warmed my heart!!! What a wonderful testimonial.</div>
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And finally, this shop review made me blush! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tKVvrr9FKaztjtJCEecvgqZwGIfpqlWJvpRJ5Q3EbM1pGX3gZ0XS8nEjs9spFaVCdWp70au_pZtef40cxVZKJgOtXi2X2saOcrwye9Dwot2mXl_1RBdRDTjSmpNGadB0068pm0tOoCc/s1600/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.11.15+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tKVvrr9FKaztjtJCEecvgqZwGIfpqlWJvpRJ5Q3EbM1pGX3gZ0XS8nEjs9spFaVCdWp70au_pZtef40cxVZKJgOtXi2X2saOcrwye9Dwot2mXl_1RBdRDTjSmpNGadB0068pm0tOoCc/s400/Screen+Shot+2016-09-29+at+8.11.15+PM.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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10 stars?! A <u>perfect</u> experience from start to finish? Kinder words were never spoken. Like I said, I am the luckiest and have the BEST CUSTOMERS EVER!<br />
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You can read <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns/reviews" target="_blank">more Lofted Designs Etsy reviews</a> (all 243 of them, and counting) <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns/reviews" target="_blank">here</a>. And, if you'd like the opportunity to write your own Lofted Designs review on Etsy, purchase one of my items <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns" target="_blank">here</a>. Thanks!</div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-35979110741654556862016-04-16T14:40:00.000-04:002016-04-16T14:48:28.985-04:00My Year of QuittingSo far, 2016 has been my year of quitting. I didn't do it on purpose. One thing just led to another and before I knew it, I'd pretty much removed myself from society. Here is how it's gone down:<br />
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<b>1. I quit volunteering at The Music Hall in Portsmouth.</b> Or at least, I tried to. Volunteering my time is super important to me, but sometimes there just isn't any time to give. Greeting patrons there and ushering was a great way to get myself out of the house and, as a bonus, get to see a free show or movie now and then. But Lofted Designs got extremely busy in January (<a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/2016/01/lofted-designs-on-buzzfeed.html" target="_blank">see last post</a>) and I felt guilty about never signing up for any volunteer shifts. So when the time came to confirm my commitment and sign on for another season with The Music Hall, I opted out. I didn't fill out the form. I quit. At least I tried to, but for some reason I continue to get their emails each week asking for help. Who knows...maybe I'll go back sometime.<br />
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<b>2. I dropped out of my book club</b>, which is actually way cooler than a regular book club (it's a deep dive into a specific topic for several months, looking at literature, film, cultural relevance, art, music, etc.), but the pressure of committing to regular get-togethers was too much. I might re-join again soon because they are discussing super interesting topics right now. I'm just feeling non-committal.<br />
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<b>3. I stopped consigning my jewelry </b>at Pear Tree Gifts in Dover, NH. I've been consigning jewelry there since the store opened, and long before that when it was Lucy's Art Emporium. It's a fabulous store, filled with many wonderful things, but consignment just isn't a good fit for my business right now. It took me a long time to come to terms with that.<br />
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<b>4. Finally, I just recently made the decision to close my Etsy shop.</b> It's temporary, but my work-life balance was (and is) way out of whack. Lofted Designs has never been my full-time job, but has always been a creative outlet and relief from a long list of full time jobs I didn't quite like. For years, I worked in bustling offices filled with energy and noise, and the studio in the loft was my respite. My evening and weekend haven, with space to myself, quiet if I needed it. About two years ago, I found a day job I actually like that allows me to work remotely from home! This removed some of the need for quiet studio time to myself and I "needed" the loft less and less.<br />
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Then, in the last few weeks, my day job got a little crazy. I've taken on some new responsibilities (not necessarily by choice) and I find myself traveling quite a bit and working until 7pm or 8pm most days just to keep up with the extra workload. This doesn't leave any time or energy for creativity in the evenings, and I am reserving my weekends for recovery from my weeks (i.e. doing absolutely nothing). I've received a few desperate emails from customers who were hoping to place orders and it pains me to view my shop stats and see all the sales that could have been, but I'd rather miss out on some Lofted Designs studio time and disappoint a few people than end up working 24/7 and risking my sanity.<br />
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So that's that. I'm hoping to relaunch the shop this summer with a new look and some exciting additions to my jewelry line. In the meantime, I'm coming to terms with being a quitter. And I think I'm OK with it.Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-69120547516009993482016-01-28T11:54:00.001-05:002016-01-28T11:56:13.506-05:00Thanks, Buzzfeed!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I didn't see it coming. Everything was nice and quiet, January-style. I was out of town attending work meetings for my day job when I got the Etsy notification: </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-weight: bold; line-height: 32px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">"Kudos, one of your listings is getting a lot of views!"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Huh? But it's the middle of January. And it's a Monday afternoon. What is going on here? A quick view of my Etsy stats showed Buzzfeed as the primary referring site. Well, that's interesting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">It didn't take me long to figure out <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/norawhelan/beautiful-fucking-jewelry" target="_blank">the source</a> of all those clicks:</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/norawhelan/beautiful-fucking-jewelry" target="_blank"><img alt="Buzzfeed curse jewelry list" border="0" height="381" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1z51ZgejM03ymhXZSLi7wa4s6_OGArt9tSkOoRciJO2d8ikbX3YcSTEH38XlzpqqvwQUqJ5ILxnIE8fyF9wPVVxnOGV2hwZfZ6Zbkihf_WxWIYpA7pajQi8HA0Y_TmxGnu5OAYW84A8o/s400/Buzzfeed.png" title="Buzzfeed" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I absolutely love the title of the post: </span><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">19 Completely Fucking Exquisite Pieces Of Jewelry For Your Best Friend Who Curses A Lot<br /></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And the brilliant subtitle:<br /><b>Goddamn, these shits are fucking elegant as hell.</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My Lofted Designs <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/89325628/anger-management-f-you-ring-secret-swear" target="_blank">secret swear ring</a> was featured as #9 on the list of 19, with the caption "Because there are just some things you can't say quite so obviously to your in-laws." So true.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/89325628/anger-management-f-you-ring-secret-swear" target="_blank"><img alt="Lofted Designs fuck you secret swear curse ring" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuaCV2IZTgipNZGHwCz7yy4uZdgPZwZgdIxuUkrTxpJKVwIJA3wFVbc-7zjFldzwbCPQVgewNVZU-8nhJZ6VUT20QSi58Pq2-odRLmo2eB6t31P41tU-4zdP6if_uivmZGwnND85MPZEg/s320/LoftedDesigns-Buzzfeed.JPG" title="Lofted Designs Secret Swear Ring" width="274" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">People have asked me what I did to be featured in this brilliant post, and I tell them the truth: "Your guess is as good as mine." Honestly, I think I got lucky with one of those right-place-at-the-right-time scenarios. I haven't been doing any paid advertising (not even sponsored Facebook posts or promoted Etsy listings). I semi-regularly post Instagram pics and Facebook and Twitter updates, but I think the real key is having a unique and clever product with an optimized shop and listing, and decent photos. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">And really, if my diverse <a href="http://www.lofteddesigns.com/" target="_blank">shop</a> featuring seaglass necklaces, pet tags, button earrings and other random items is lucky enough to be recognized for one single product, I'm pretty fucking glad it's this one. I'm very proud of this ring design and its therapeutic properties that will hopefully help people all around the world deal with shitty bosses, rude customers and the like.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I'd like to send a shout out to <a href="https://twitter.com/noraiswrite" target="_blank">Nora Whelan</a> for recognizing greatness when she sees it and for coming up with such an incredibly inspired list.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Now it's back to the jewelry bench to make more of these fuckers. Thanks to everyone who has placed an order! I'm filling them as quickly as possible.</span>Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-69949815462299195902015-05-17T12:56:00.001-04:002015-05-17T13:02:21.936-04:00Handmade Running Necklaces for Heinemann's Wallis Sands Half Marathon Team<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption"><i><span style="color: #999999;">Team photo by Michael Grover – 7/10 of the Heinemann running team sporting their new necklaces</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Huge congratulations are in order for Heinemann Publishing's running team! This amazing group of ten women made it a goal to train together through the winter and complete the Wallis Sands Half Marathon in Rye, NH today. Some of them are seasoned runners and others are new to the sport, with the half marathon begin their first official race. What a fantastic goal!</span></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/running-necklace-handmade-sterling" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqw1urgvNhB75YxGT4-Er79z1OTMLxvoWK9o_j6QN-l4g9POr3fNaS7bM0-K-Yq7ItQeBz1vA03_NYQ3sNXxka9tsIz-TajQsH1IRS75NVkOQDmNs5Ly9S5i1wqnInAMDVO2Vf_zshAIY/s320/IMG_3814.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was honored when the team's organizer reached out to me to order <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/running-necklace-handmade-sterling" target="_blank">running necklaces</a> for the entire team. She thought it would be fantastic to congratulate the team with a meaningful, locally-made gift. I couldn't agree more!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'm sure the team did a fabulous job this morning. The <a href="http://www.wallissandshalfmarathon.com/index" target="_blank">Wallis Sands Half Marathon</a> follows a gorgeous route along the New Hampshire coastline through Rye and all the way up to Odiorne Point State Park, and what a beautiful morning it was for a run along the beach. Go team Heinemann! I'm rooting for you!! Thanks for supporting the local arts community.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMURSPVlbduGP99bdqz1YMScQaybgCMdztgrvZcWWRmB62hi_1pC8UyTVjfIKyALqDQlnhmIobOHvv4RYszAESj9HY57_jf23pOhSLw_-2NTxJkRGTABeuCljZNhpjB1ageBNAEVmafx4/s1600/IMG_3820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMURSPVlbduGP99bdqz1YMScQaybgCMdztgrvZcWWRmB62hi_1pC8UyTVjfIKyALqDQlnhmIobOHvv4RYszAESj9HY57_jf23pOhSLw_-2NTxJkRGTABeuCljZNhpjB1ageBNAEVmafx4/s400/IMG_3820.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.heinemann.com/" target="_blank">Heinemann</a> is a publisher of professional resources and a provider of educational services for teachers, kindergarten through college. Their offices are located in a reconditioned 1800s mill building near downtown Portsmouth, NH. </span></span><br />
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<br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-24576450090299299362015-01-26T15:45:00.000-05:002015-01-26T15:46:57.521-05:00Things Making Me Happy - Winter 2015<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmZ3Kz5tvr-bZhhJz-CRNMYuIsVQSlkWUkgauaiQ7Z3dMiPzSeNk95njOmdICVStxSsFa0cyc1abextHBuNDT4GAwlcZBfGNQ8zgjkTD7GjHyDR6vxWou9auEPDuW7Ye0j4GUNGRheUI/s1600/MakingMeHappy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqmZ3Kz5tvr-bZhhJz-CRNMYuIsVQSlkWUkgauaiQ7Z3dMiPzSeNk95njOmdICVStxSsFa0cyc1abextHBuNDT4GAwlcZBfGNQ8zgjkTD7GjHyDR6vxWou9auEPDuW7Ye0j4GUNGRheUI/s1600/MakingMeHappy.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm usually a fairly happy person, but winter can be a struggle (for anyone, not just me). The shorter days with limited sunlight, long stretches of frigid New England temperatures and suburbia's lack of cultural diversions can be a drag. Winter just lasts longer here. So I'm making a point of focusing on the small stuff that makes me extra happy. Physical objects that bring me joy. Here's the first list – hope you like it!</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Ruins-Novel-Jess-Walter/dp/0061928178" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzZqFMKL_lNXqBIQuiQhElSu1ZFCvVWqRokhyphenhyphen_9GC3Bnx20ZKtktWLMSm14aEhIAbKQu89xqYsrWLAiF_nhv65ZN3ySY2er3LUGcxEtSVfb7azYrnPRhJMwaab2EUaIV-YZirePrzT7w/s400/blogger-image-1628663875.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First, <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Ruins-Novel-Jess-Walter/dp/0061928178" target="_blank"><i>Beautiful Ruins</i></a> by Jess Walter </b>is the best book I've read in a long while. It came out in 2012, but I'm a little late to the game. This book presents a fascinating and completely realized collection of characters and worlds and is beautifully written, with passages that feel more like poetry than fiction. This book is equal parts love story, travel narrative and mystery and it includes a play, a screenplay, a chapter of a Hollywood memoir and a war memoir. Though the book spans more than fifty years and follows dozens of intricate story lines, it never felt contrived or confusing. On the contrary, it felt very real and almost believable, and I was devastated when it all ended. So much so, that I actually immediately started it over again. I LOVED this book! I would go so far as to say it saved my January.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUxdTIMwJRdzkcqx6RYBJit2OGX7zJWjEm6QVz3k7mnYG7OYosep8ZE9yXiXqDbkb4NWPuj3siQMsc3S4uDM7AMARiH2TOp30UV0n9MZKdwjdnJfsR7jsCc3SPd_HN7DBs1at5P_ZSPg/s640/blogger-image--1931149459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUxdTIMwJRdzkcqx6RYBJit2OGX7zJWjEm6QVz3k7mnYG7OYosep8ZE9yXiXqDbkb4NWPuj3siQMsc3S4uDM7AMARiH2TOp30UV0n9MZKdwjdnJfsR7jsCc3SPd_HN7DBs1at5P_ZSPg/s400/blogger-image--1931149459.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Next up: <b>beautiful, bright, tactile objects</b>. I recently got a new case for my iPhone and surprised myself by gravitating toward the neon red color option, which is actually more of a neon peachy-salmon. I'm almost always drawn to blues and greens, but this color really spoke to me and I'm glad I stepped outside my comfort zone. It makes me happy every time I see it and is also slightly soft for good grip, but not so rubbery that it can't easily slip in and out of my pocket. The <b><a href="https://www.incipio.com/cases/iphone-cases/iphone-6-cases/ngp-flexible-impact-resistant-case-iphone-6.html" target="_blank">Incipio NGP</a> case</b> was recommended by <a href="http://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-iphone-6-case/" target="_blank">The Wirecutter</a> and only cost $13 on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MUQ9IBY?tag=thewire06-20&linkCode=as2&creative=374929&camp=211189" target="_blank">Amazon</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of my goals (always) is to drink more water. I don't drink nearly enough – I just never think of it – and a friend recently suggested that if I had a great vessel I loved drinking from, I might be more inclined to remember. After some searching, I decided on a <b><a href="http://www.mybkr.com/" target="_blank">bkr bottle</a> </b>(pronounced "beaker"), a glass bottle enclosed in a silicone sleeve. Its narrow glass mouth is amazing to drink from and the silicone sleeve feels great to hold. I want it with me all the time and therefore I am drinking more water! Color: Deep; purchased from <a href="http://gusandruby.com/" target="_blank">Gus & Ruby Letterpress</a> in Portsmouth, NH. </span></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/oceanfirepottery" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf856KenBhYp4ARA8eEmy0ohAhOj04sMmlbCtKhMXhN8Q8mqTd9S_VPvEMkpWTbp839gAtrWlhUrlafuJc3zNwzRD4a7Mr452mgrXLo8e8GGTRdugk8U52M0ZlWbT3MBdHHiYxpSS70-I/s400/blogger-image-1861847079.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This <b>handmade noodle bowl </b>from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oceanfirepottery" target="_blank">Ocean Fire Pottery</a> was crafted in my hometown of York, Maine by Amy Clark. I've had this bowl for a couple of years now and it has always made me happy. The fact that it is handmade automatically makes it great, but also it's one of my favorite colors and its size and shape fit perfectly in my hands. As you can see from this photo, even a pre-packaged $1.19 grocery store packet of ramen noodles (yes, I splurge for the "pricey" brand!) can be elevated to new heights when enjoyed from a handmade noodle bowl. Bonus: handmade chopsticks made in Kittery!</span><br />
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<a href="http://bobos-mountain-sugar.myshopify.com/collections/all/products/grade-b" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0MCmAY-ifTGIovKSzS3uabEngjtjwSAo8ON-7EO9RYefXNV8rpXnL_4fVU6GJY2Q2CEErFUZM2HG0Yeusp_xl5dhqVhWEQ4rN4XSPLMdqAflpuRQNravk1I1iLTD6DUaQ2DB7GDdWYQ/s400/blogger-image--241160242.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have Al James' "<a href="http://www.acontinuouslean.com/2015/01/05/stuff-used/" target="_blank">Stuff That Gets Used</a>" article to thank for this one (and my husband who reads <i><a href="http://www.acontinuouslean.com/" target="_blank">A Continuous Lean</a></i> on a regular basis). He clued us in to <b>Bobo's Mountain Sugar</b> wood-fired Vermont maple syrup, whose tagline "A Taste of Tree" is quite accurate. <a href="http://bobos-mountain-sugar.myshopify.com/collections/all/products/grade-b" target="_blank">This maple syrup</a> is the best I've ever tasted, and the fact that it's handmade in small batches by a young couple carrying on an ancient tradition makes me love it even more. Dark and robust is where it's at, and this is coming from a girl who grew up thinking Aunt Jemima and Mrs. Butterworth's were the real deal (I've come a long way!). If you're confused about the new maple syrup grades, check out this cool <a href="https://www.facebook.com/rumbletree/photos/a.137660988836.110124.135348843836/10152613297523837/?type=1&theater" target="_blank">maple grade graphic</a> designed by Rumbletree, created for New Hampshire but also applicable to Vermont (but trust me on the dark and robust thing). </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.portlandpatchproject.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBTqQadqsWJ2WcpC7HL8V7zc1yw2VBUyZAGK7CWAk0WXjEzEKNHKwoCttFuqlylVxL8aOLarpH57K4cD9WsyCIXFEp_sM8tu0B500dak5CcpgbJH6EDtTXyNJhObYREDFdsyhePQXhYw/s400/blogger-image-1401665519.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I bought myself a year-long subscription to the <b><a href="http://www.portlandpatchproject.com/" target="_blank">Portland Patch Project</a></b> for Christmas and I am looking forward to a year of surprises in my mailbox. First of all, surprise snail mail! Secondly, a slew of talented local artists from the Portland, Maine area will be designing these sewn patches throughout the year. So far, I have not been disappointed. Pictured here are the January and February patches, plus a bonus lobster patch and authentic 1980s NKOTB trading card (random, but so fun). There was also a great print in the first shipment (not pictured). The <a href="http://www.portlandpatchproject.com/" target="_blank">website</a> features artist profiles and I can't wait for the March patch (I'm a HUGE fan of <a href="http://erichou.net/" target="_blank">Eric Hou's work</a>). Not sure where to sew my patches just yet, but they're making me very happy.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKATlaBQQC1uvvHA8ujpWB0IpkWPi9dVY87kcKrTaacPF1lTunpJT05hDFLGV0hr_Vg-_tVJ91Q7dVi8KjU5t0SXbeAEtNUkw01DmVOnYrjyDhIGknVMWENTyTVMT-mSOEIBcMwaSh2rk/s640/blogger-image--919126874.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKATlaBQQC1uvvHA8ujpWB0IpkWPi9dVY87kcKrTaacPF1lTunpJT05hDFLGV0hr_Vg-_tVJ91Q7dVi8KjU5t0SXbeAEtNUkw01DmVOnYrjyDhIGknVMWENTyTVMT-mSOEIBcMwaSh2rk/s400/blogger-image--919126874.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm a long-time David Lynch film fan, however I've never seen <b>Twin Peaks</b> in its entirety. I watched the first few episodes about 10 years ago, but couldn't get into it. I finally decided to commit and am immensely enjoying the <a href="http://www.blu-ray.com/movies/Twin-Peaks-The-Entire-Mystery-Blu-ray/93181/" target="_blank">Twin Peaks: The Entire Mystery Blu-ray box set</a>, taking care to spread it out and not binge-watch the entire series all at once. I'm watching an episode or two a week and loving it! I haven't started delving into the extra features yet (of which there are a ton) because I'm terribly afraid of spoilers, but I will backtrack and watch them all before winter is through. The packaging of the box set alone makes me super happy and each episode feels like a new gift to be unwrapped.</span></div>
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<a href="https://new.fortnumandmason.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJEPyT48oqUkTPRnnHjfKQC25sTFZ_QYzjO_PLwMy8RmfR_d0g-wGph844NFhFozBQdgHs-uT0dSNGiFMc2369Zhl4x4iS2yXApsY26wLXwqQgchl-ohRi1IyupsVf1tXtakMD-xVU4U/s640/blogger-image-1446578176.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Speaking of unwrapping gifts with amazing packaging, my sister sent me this <b>incredible box of chocolates</b> from her holiday trip to London. These are from <a href="https://new.fortnumandmason.com/" target="_blank">Fortnum & Mason</a>, a department store established in 1707! The box alone is incredible, printed with gold foil and featuring a scenic flora and fauna print under the lid, not to mention the chocolates inside. Of course, I had to geek out and look up the <a href="http://www.packagingnews.co.uk/design/new-packs/design-bridge-fortnum-mason-create-new-confectionery-packs/" target="_blank">brains behind the packaging design</a>. My photos don't do it justice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Disclosure: </b>I have no material relationship to any brand or person mentioned in this post. These endorsements are based on my own personal opinions only and are not sponsored in any way. </span></div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-68684309079308084352015-01-01T18:48:00.001-05:002015-01-01T18:49:14.731-05:00A Look Back & A Look Ahead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbb-C6UjcGiRpvweWxpNsxdSsDYkZv6Vy5rJtDu1dgfyWPJHW5Ll89LUw3sS5oQ0xBHDgHBLMftksGTh8lGoCS36o65tRXyxTyQJjySr66pTTDs6jkQGETFikT45pig-itY8L8ldpJaA/s1600/150242-Happy-New-Year-2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPbb-C6UjcGiRpvweWxpNsxdSsDYkZv6Vy5rJtDu1dgfyWPJHW5Ll89LUw3sS5oQ0xBHDgHBLMftksGTh8lGoCS36o65tRXyxTyQJjySr66pTTDs6jkQGETFikT45pig-itY8L8ldpJaA/s1600/150242-Happy-New-Year-2015.jpg" height="342" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First thing's first: happy new year and <b>THANK YOU</b>! Thank you for following along in my creative adventures, whether we know one another in person or just online. I'm so lucky to have friends, fans and followers interested in what I do. Lofted Designs started out as a personal hobby eight years ago, and I am constantly amazed by and grateful for the number of people who enjoy my work.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Looking Back</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2014 was a year of many milestones for this little jewelry company:</span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Lofted Designs surpassed the 700-sale mark on Etsy!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My work had more than 17,000 views on Etsy from all over the world (93 countries)!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I shipped more than 135 orders all over the US and the world – not a record-setting year, but certainly nothing to sneeze at. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The fewest craft fairs ever – I only participated in three shows this year and none more than 10 miles from my house. This was a risky move, but I loved the shows I did and didn't miss the rest! It all worked out. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Each year, I donate a portion of profits to some of my favorite organizations and 2014 was no exception. For the first time, I decided to align specific products with non-profits. </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.hiusa.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizUUOPxiqQ-DwTqaVkHv7dFQsh0VjgS5AN7zg7YsDwprMx8WLEQdDtwPAhJhVR56jMzev10t4rOlga_A8HEs2sR5D_eOPRWUCRVTi2Kg48hsmeCzPQdELaHYlRvWUQIngtZ8zfCSKTBfc/s1600/HI-WanderlustEarrings.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The ever-popular sterling silver <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/107180583/wanderlust-earrings-inspired-by-the-film" target="_blank">Wanderlust Earrings</a> (both the original and the new <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/207628152/hammered-wanderlust-earrings-inspired-by" target="_blank">hammered style</a>) raised funds for <a href="http://www.hiusa.org/" target="_blank">Hostelling International USA</a>, an organization that made a huge impact on me when I was younger. Founded in 1934, HI promotes international understanding of the world and its people through travel. They currently operate a network of over 50 hostels across the US, each offering a unique, inexpensive, safe and clean experience.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.girlsontherun.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw__Tp-pYvlfxkIWHEx3Q2EcNl728ERZNXO-9YZ1wWy3YuiqQL4YmXkykyt-hbMxA3DXtJoMoFg13ZVRHQH2uL7KjuSrMjmtiRWr_0w0gRPRJe1-_679A0r-Ol3PwbB65_YBWJCCw-Bdo/s1600/GOTR-RunningNecklaces.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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A percentage of profits from the sale of my new <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/running-necklace-handmade-sterling" target="_blank">running necklaces</a> was donated to <a href="http://www.girlsontherun.org/" target="_blank">Girls on the Run</a>, a transformational physical activity-based youth development program for girls in 3rd-8th grade. The organization teaches life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and running games. The program culminates with the girls being physically and emotionally prepared to complete a celebratory 5k running event. The goal is to unleash confidence through accomplishment while establishing a lifetime appreciation of health and fitness.</span><br />
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<a href="http://www.bonesbeagles.org/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD3ES7uMNF-lMergjxmXQv-tTfI6PF-wo9m52HqKsQvPcq88APPkVSocr67C6wW8cYx2YGEGiIZBxsqXNb8tECp8W-Iwt6464plIoLBupE_zAt7C4jby4Yb3Y4hTRHTAVGxuV_5beerj8/s1600/BONES-Tags.jpg" height="200" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="text-align: left;">My beagle Sandy is my only child, and so naturally I believe beagles are the best dogs ever. Beagles of New England States (<a href="http://www.bonesbeagles.org/" target="_blank">B.O.N.E.S.</a></span>) was founded in 2003 with a mission to rescue, rehome, spay/neuter, and provide necessary medical care to beagles in need in New England. This is an all-volunteer organization doing amazing work every day! I especially love their Sensational Seniors program which helps find loving homes for beagles in need over the age of 10. With your help, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns?section_id=6251693" target="_blank">Lofted Designs pet tag</a> sales helped fund a generous donation this year!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0h8s474YCRuhljndDh3pu9oRfg2d5ii2OD-AK14DmofW7Eo_gmXnuT35OOdALKX0JFQjmXqEnM-qaK2ESOPo09AlzA-IfhZjl7xE4r0grPf1D08GGwxnqt-uHBDsNGThwncMSZjT0CQ/s1600/CGC_LOGO_SMALL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0h8s474YCRuhljndDh3pu9oRfg2d5ii2OD-AK14DmofW7Eo_gmXnuT35OOdALKX0JFQjmXqEnM-qaK2ESOPo09AlzA-IfhZjl7xE4r0grPf1D08GGwxnqt-uHBDsNGThwncMSZjT0CQ/s1600/CGC_LOGO_SMALL.jpg" height="178" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The remainder of donations went to <a href="http://www.cgcmaine.org/">the Center for Grieving Children</a>, based in Portland, Maine. This wonderful organization provides free bereavement support and crisis response to children, teens, young adults and their families and has been doing so for 27 years. They encourage the safe expression of grief and loss and foster each individual’s resilience and emotional well-being.</span>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Looking Ahead</span></b></h4>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: left;">As we flip the calendar to 2015, I am energized by the concept of a fresh, new start and a clean slate. I've decided to take Lofted Designs in a slightly different direction this year, but more on that in a future blog post (coming soon). </span>
Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-42984709851680459712014-11-29T09:01:00.003-05:002014-11-29T09:01:26.743-05:00CRAFT FIX - Sunday, November 30th, Kittery, Maine!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Join me and</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> 19 other local artists and craftspeople at Buoy Gallery in Kittery for the <b>amazing annual Craft Fix!</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJ0YqrXBuc_DiIfVRzQWbuGEnry774Da_ecZ4KW0mnqQI1-Lx8FyJv6eRsyk4Jv9QajFwkGIrGroE9CCvrcXjIfLzFG6NfaB48TjKQD5-TxtEfmJFXVsWE5CiRfD3KuCRRUjYKqCEO9A/s1600/CraftFix2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgJ0YqrXBuc_DiIfVRzQWbuGEnry774Da_ecZ4KW0mnqQI1-Lx8FyJv6eRsyk4Jv9QajFwkGIrGroE9CCvrcXjIfLzFG6NfaB48TjKQD5-TxtEfmJFXVsWE5CiRfD3KuCRRUjYKqCEO9A/s1600/CraftFix2014.jpg" height="320" width="243" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">10am - 5pm </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">2 Government Street</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">(gallery space attached to The Black Birch)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/738319382927056/" target="_blank">More info & RSVP</a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b>**SAME DAY BONUS:</b> Art on the Hill's open studios, Folk (darling little shop around the corner) </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">anniversary celebration and Doo salon (across the street) Wrong Brain craft fair are all at the same time! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><b>**WEATHER BONUS: </b>the forecast is 50</span><span style="color: #545454; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">°!</span>Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-82007093715650125312014-11-01T19:17:00.003-04:002014-11-01T19:18:10.089-04:00Handmade Silver Running JewelryOn the eve of the <a href="http://www.tcsnycmarathon.org/" target="_blank">New York City Marathon</a>, I am very excited to announce my new <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/sterling-silver-running-necklace-5k-10k" target="_blank">handmade running necklaces</a> for 5K, 10K, half-marathon and marathon! These sterling silver necklaces have been on my mind for quite some time, and it seemed appropriate to reveal them just in time for the world's largest marathon.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/sterling-silver-running-necklace-5k-10k" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PhuMN5wNcd9E_UTJCb8yR9iMuR_lioKFYja_2tG0ngFV31_3xvf2V_2-7thADw7IPkKXKtb_443W0Y0nnCI5qX02XQh8ez49p33HEbaINW1Ds7b5u8-7bqnQcm3PwopbigKhYyAz1cQ/s1600/IMG_1967.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I've been running pretty regularly for about two and a half years, and each time I hit a new milestone I think about creating a special piece to commemorate my accomplishments. My first 5K and 10K were enormous achievements for me, and really, if I'm being honest, every run is a personal achievement. You see, I used to have a deep hatred for running. I always detested high school gym class, but when we had to run the mile – forget it. It was pretty much my worst nightmare. I would half walk, half limp around the track, practically in tears. My lungs burned, my side ached, my legs itched. Running was the bane of my existence.<br />
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Fast forward to a few years ago when my husband got into running and started signing up for races. He loved it and raved about how great he felt, and I thought I should give it another shot as an adult to see what all the hype was about.<br />
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Starting slow, I began the Couch to 5K program and ran my first race in the spring of 2012. After a few 5Ks, I ramped up to a 10K, and then soon after signed up for a 10 miler. I haven't yet progressed to a half marathon, but I'm not ruling it out as an option. And I've recently discovered that I love trail running...how fun to go run in the woods, surrounded by nature!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZms_vfv2XqVkZn5UjFKoEpnAT1t2TBgTZuBW8xOt_ny3tNhurxD9WoYbEWPAM5fVKeCKoCW2Q5syl44wgh4qhhIBD6YXr1eJN15-Klmc6VGcAsBWBU8vYA_vvGIM2ZXiXFp1L_g046GA/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZms_vfv2XqVkZn5UjFKoEpnAT1t2TBgTZuBW8xOt_ny3tNhurxD9WoYbEWPAM5fVKeCKoCW2Q5syl44wgh4qhhIBD6YXr1eJN15-Klmc6VGcAsBWBU8vYA_vvGIM2ZXiXFp1L_g046GA/s1600/IMG_1568.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's me on a recent trail run</td></tr>
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Anyway, the point I want to make is that running is HARD. Even after years of training and practice, it's still really hard. Some runs are more difficult than others, but I consider every run – whether a mile or ten, on road or trail – to be a major accomplishment. And no accomplishment should go unrewarded.<br />
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Whether you are just starting out or have been running for decades, I hope my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/sterling-silver-running-necklace-5k-10k" target="_blank">handmade running necklaces</a> will serve as a great reminder of your achievements. And if you aren't a runner, but you have runner in your life, these necklaces will make the perfect gift to congratulate them on a race well-run!<br />
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<b>BONUS: </b>A percentage of profits from the sale of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/209355328/sterling-silver-running-necklace-5k-10k" target="_blank">these necklaces</a> will be donated to <a href="http://www.girlsontherun.org/" target="_blank">Girls on the Run</a>:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQevuT305w2DnWKtQnCUgi5Sh_R22XXPz3yGr36Y1iv14FMTli3Wy47nwSQXrTrM14ZgUUM2gdCshyfAI3gynhV8oQT0n0G2LhEHVx5GJWVwAWiyAl-vZfMLoeccp2tKV8X47mn09qLSk/s1600/logo_gotr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQevuT305w2DnWKtQnCUgi5Sh_R22XXPz3yGr36Y1iv14FMTli3Wy47nwSQXrTrM14ZgUUM2gdCshyfAI3gynhV8oQT0n0G2LhEHVx5GJWVwAWiyAl-vZfMLoeccp2tKV8X47mn09qLSk/s1600/logo_gotr.jpg" height="163" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 20.270719528198242px;">Girls on the Run is a transformational physical activity-based youth development program for girls in 3rd-8th grade. We teach life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons & running games. The program culminates with the girls being physically & emotionally prepared to complete a celebratory 5k running event. The goal of the program is to unleash confidence through accomplishment while establishing a lifetime appreciation of health & fitness.</span></blockquote>
Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-74018273920207117002014-09-14T11:48:00.003-04:002014-09-14T11:53:19.988-04:00Bridal Shower Favors - Succulents in Painted Vintage Wooden Spools<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiUHBiJi4Pyqji8hRu29Abekzop-oIwrTbxGTc4ycH07ygjv7-yla2Y8hhxQ-WgMrDQTDuF66yAGE8vph6WhJqq8zghbHqxHXvGGKKkC1q6RC17SIA4EerIZzFO3V0tPieJI1mheoKW0/s1600/Succulents-Wooden-Spools.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqiUHBiJi4Pyqji8hRu29Abekzop-oIwrTbxGTc4ycH07ygjv7-yla2Y8hhxQ-WgMrDQTDuF66yAGE8vph6WhJqq8zghbHqxHXvGGKKkC1q6RC17SIA4EerIZzFO3V0tPieJI1mheoKW0/s1600/Succulents-Wooden-Spools.JPG" height="225" width="400" /></a></div>
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I know, I know...this is supposed to be a jewelry blog. But on occasion, I get a little carried away with <a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/2013/10/how-to-make-halloween-costume-without.html" target="_blank">other crafty projects</a> and I like to share them. My latest endeavor was inspired by my sister's fabulous <a href="http://www.jaimeandpetersf.com/" target="_blank">wedding color palette</a>, her love of succulents and a Maine yard sale score of 25+ vintage wooden thread spools with great old labels.<br />
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I will also admit that I've been slightly obsessed with Best Made Co.'s <a href="http://www.bestmadeco.com/collections/axes" target="_blank">painted axes</a> for quite a few years, as well as Norquay's (suspiciously similar) gorgeous <a href="http://norquayco.com/collections/artisan-canoe-paddles" target="_blank">artisan painted canoe paddles</a> which appeared on the market last summer, so this idea of handpainting something wood with fun, striped colors has been floating around in my head for awhile.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bestmadeco.com/collections/axes" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHShix8Jkaim4kSjt7vH8EpKx00fpBN_9h54qV18-BBcptNywr_fXddbktU-r08FWYdfBDVAt3mrwNmb9NTVc73deGBA74icWkIfKrBK3sDnzO36x5kfluneYiFCe5I1sf2CrQ3jptVW8/s1600/BestMadeCoAxes.jpg" height="133" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://norquayco.com/collections/artisan-canoe-paddles" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKQ0MMplCz94k7TLTZwtauXfNhFSeLtKvfdl5xMjB15_E3MFqEvCdccrybNQs5Av_-qHAcsJQXbe0jyLAxMbwZYZnSUJf9WKSDkt7qTIG6rGT_ddvIcgii_3a3Sq03yhOewIoNRFmbPI4/s1600/NorquayPaddles.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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First, I got out my ancient acrylics from art school (amazingly, they're still good!) and mixed colors until I got a perfect match. The wedding colors are inspired by the USA and UK flags (she's American, he's from Liverpool), but toned down a bit. So instead of straight up red and blue, they're closer to poppy and turquoise. The gorgeous invitations were designed and letterpress printed by <a href="http://www.paperparasolpress.com/" target="_blank">Paper Parasol Press</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AUD_QJuA1h7yaFFJ7-DucRwaIw9jI4sgnukKR_QePZOc22CJpGzEUpNb80ykYTLrg2CpEPeyaJMQaRT8JaqlFV9itSUOWONYrl8NQRiPHFaMTnt0ZbweayYploTS5k5aaMIoTe6qTcQ/s1600/PaintedSpools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-AUD_QJuA1h7yaFFJ7-DucRwaIw9jI4sgnukKR_QePZOc22CJpGzEUpNb80ykYTLrg2CpEPeyaJMQaRT8JaqlFV9itSUOWONYrl8NQRiPHFaMTnt0ZbweayYploTS5k5aaMIoTe6qTcQ/s1600/PaintedSpools.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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I cut thin strips of masking tape and used them to section off stripes on the wooden spools, then painted areas of red, white and blue. Once the paint dried, I taped new stripes and repeated to achieve the effect of multiple stacked colors. No two spools were exactly alike. Some even started out with really unique forest green wood, so I kept a little of that in for variety. I finished each spool with a clear varnish to seal the wood and protect the paint.<br />
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Next, I made my way to a nearby garden center and selected the tiniest succulents I could find, being mindful to select varieties with small root structures so they would fit inside the tiny spools.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXqiiS8lzDGaDMSUj0mbYOLky6y44IEUxPg98ynaE62n5KjvQyw5Fq2f8lzOiGmjzFGeavHKYU8gyuoekc597fAeAgvnxTYZVzNUTkoe4zEFDkTL4om1eGySttSo4jfiv0BfVV8dbKNg/s1600/Succulents.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsXqiiS8lzDGaDMSUj0mbYOLky6y44IEUxPg98ynaE62n5KjvQyw5Fq2f8lzOiGmjzFGeavHKYU8gyuoekc597fAeAgvnxTYZVzNUTkoe4zEFDkTL4om1eGySttSo4jfiv0BfVV8dbKNg/s1600/Succulents.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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After that, I used a drill to enlarge the spool holes slightly (although I had purchased tiny succulents, the roots were still too large for most of the spools). I glued tiny pieces of wooden dowel into the bottom of each spool to act as a stopper. Then I used a chopstick to carefully layer some dirt into each spool, gently nudged the roots down into the holes and filled in the area around each one with more soil. Special thanks to Donni, who blogs at <a href="http://www.themagiconions.com/2014/06/succulents-planted-in-antique-wooden-thread-spools.html" target="_blank">The Magic Onions</a>, for providing some planting tips! I do not have a green thumb at all.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6F2YjZ3sNB1OrCXyL59BIA6XLvMY3cKgj3-sEjgsbZv3i4tms_5-K_mrQdVbJlqoOsZ9YZiZVoSj2XN7CfkBpoRmLUaZ6bLacdnvWX9Q4OSVyVQH9uhMU9zcOFLZ01YCmzYAl-yLGys/s1600/Succulents-Wood_Spools.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm6F2YjZ3sNB1OrCXyL59BIA6XLvMY3cKgj3-sEjgsbZv3i4tms_5-K_mrQdVbJlqoOsZ9YZiZVoSj2XN7CfkBpoRmLUaZ6bLacdnvWX9Q4OSVyVQH9uhMU9zcOFLZ01YCmzYAl-yLGys/s1600/Succulents-Wood_Spools.JPG" height="340" width="400" /></a></div>
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The finished product was too cute for words! I was really happy with the way these turned out. That said, they were a bit underwhelming on a large table...I'd probably recommend placing each on a small plate or printed paper coaster if you have the time and budget.<br />
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<br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-66200524790511367022014-08-09T17:49:00.000-04:002014-08-09T17:49:07.060-04:00Whiskey Molecule Necklace - Unique Custom PendantI absolutely love custom jewelry requests, so naturally I was excited to receive a creative special request from my longtime friend Jeff. A good friend of his had a birthday approaching and he knew just the thing to make her day, but was without tools and resources to bring his idea to fruition. He asked for my assistance.<br />
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<b>The idea: </b>A whiskey molecule necklace for a whiskey-loving gal<br />
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<b>The process:</b> We started with some sketches. Jeff sent me a diagram of the chemical structure of whiskey as well as his idea for how it might work as a pendant. He also shared important details about the recipient, such as she's very tall and loves to wear big, bold jewelry. Good to know!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_P6wXhgwwo87hJdoJbWNQQW5wCl1pWModLUXOn7LqgvHvsZleGrmYFk2fAR0s6RaBJaVJetIE0hwGgV8YGmhivONZVw-2l-LrI5i-fDGS8nNePwIFTBR7dkZc2gzVmI2rD_BCPmS0ZA/s1600/Whiskey-Molecule-Necklace.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_P6wXhgwwo87hJdoJbWNQQW5wCl1pWModLUXOn7LqgvHvsZleGrmYFk2fAR0s6RaBJaVJetIE0hwGgV8YGmhivONZVw-2l-LrI5i-fDGS8nNePwIFTBR7dkZc2gzVmI2rD_BCPmS0ZA/s1600/Whiskey-Molecule-Necklace.JPG" height="346" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>The build:</b> Starting with sterling silver wire, I cut and formed each piece of the molecule. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN-QrF73pKydxceYRfwP0C6xksxp_o0C4WWh2bCWHPxYzB7749TLOkVr7QDFLK92HPAb_PQ63T5E4wxQYVkmQexYHzNKyhRtgtcwLEh1aiDcJUGzwyj8TbWwtZ7n7pmTfDU6e31z5Ujk/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Process1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYN-QrF73pKydxceYRfwP0C6xksxp_o0C4WWh2bCWHPxYzB7749TLOkVr7QDFLK92HPAb_PQ63T5E4wxQYVkmQexYHzNKyhRtgtcwLEh1aiDcJUGzwyj8TbWwtZ7n7pmTfDU6e31z5Ujk/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Process1.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">I then laid out all the pieces and began soldering them together. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HIgAffg8pNhOnqkyQAHLNBbGIJOOaoBTXtaJ5f_V0VZmJhE9ES6GdaoMypGJMhRDnwd6XNvvFMqUA4OGikHX7TC1UtihrKe_BJm7UXhq40ty-pmjD_fZtujUuHkBqDUslz4PL3cdoXI/s1600/WhiskeyNecklace-Process2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HIgAffg8pNhOnqkyQAHLNBbGIJOOaoBTXtaJ5f_V0VZmJhE9ES6GdaoMypGJMhRDnwd6XNvvFMqUA4OGikHX7TC1UtihrKe_BJm7UXhq40ty-pmjD_fZtujUuHkBqDUslz4PL3cdoXI/s1600/WhiskeyNecklace-Process2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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This was a fairly large piece to heat, so it took a few tries to get solder to flow to all the joints. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMasOWnW3MVT7koCqmKYS_CvqBj9b_REsaEZ-lqfUisyiQO_FhQTN8FD7_-N6SZ0SeDfcnhlZr_I0u7k6y-yrFSg1Huz5Z5lRfmsB7pwNErgCZJI-49bZihrNFluo4j5ZqzK9eSH0dzLk/s1600/WhiskeyNecklace-Process3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMasOWnW3MVT7koCqmKYS_CvqBj9b_REsaEZ-lqfUisyiQO_FhQTN8FD7_-N6SZ0SeDfcnhlZr_I0u7k6y-yrFSg1Huz5Z5lRfmsB7pwNErgCZJI-49bZihrNFluo4j5ZqzK9eSH0dzLk/s1600/WhiskeyNecklace-Process3.jpg" height="400" width="381" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">After the whole piece was soldered together, it still looked a little too light and delicate, so I decided to hammer it flat to make it a bit bolder and give the lines more weight. Lastly, I filed the joints smooth and polished the pendant, finalizing it with a brushed, matte finish.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZZfgqpWWy7xc3fAayZZktzPQctAk6VUhyr0yXeiFUelmNYxDa4oFtDTnzjOeFnF28FJexG0jFIP_4MzgIn6wlfeiiCCVYhOBe8fSCstghEDy_Egal19FjccBEDT4g72HBjK8DUdV_XE/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Bulleit-Rye.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZZfgqpWWy7xc3fAayZZktzPQctAk6VUhyr0yXeiFUelmNYxDa4oFtDTnzjOeFnF28FJexG0jFIP_4MzgIn6wlfeiiCCVYhOBe8fSCstghEDy_Egal19FjccBEDT4g72HBjK8DUdV_XE/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Bulleit-Rye.jpg" height="400" width="398" /></a></div>
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<b>End result:</b> Super awesome lady receives badass, thoughtful, customized gift! Everyone parties and has a great time!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEj-s56AEC5WZBqPnT_s9lBGZWeIaoVnjCv7ikOtcPW6CEKmEfN_ifZmkcFlvfgVy3YeD7dXWEo728k1fwlC8wYMzh4DN1GQUY-Abt3y92facQrOiH0mO7d6v5zbA7ZikVH1bRMwFEZM/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Unique-Gift+.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOEj-s56AEC5WZBqPnT_s9lBGZWeIaoVnjCv7ikOtcPW6CEKmEfN_ifZmkcFlvfgVy3YeD7dXWEo728k1fwlC8wYMzh4DN1GQUY-Abt3y92facQrOiH0mO7d6v5zbA7ZikVH1bRMwFEZM/s1600/Whiskey-Necklace-Unique-Gift+.jpeg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birthday girl photo courtesy of Jeff</td></tr>
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<b>Moral of the story: </b>put some thought into your gift giving and don't be afraid to ask a professional for help. This was a true collaboration and couldn't have turned out better. <a href="mailto:lofteddesigns@gmail.com" target="_blank">Contact me</a> for help with your unique idea today!</div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-6044877460473337462014-02-01T15:14:00.005-05:002014-02-01T15:14:52.642-05:00Music + Jewelry = LOVEI love a good love story and I also appreciate good music, so when the two come together and I get to participate it's beautiful thing. I recently had the pleasure of creating some one-of-a-kind gifts for a lovely couple who happen to have very good taste in music (and jewelry).<br />
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First, there was <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/59518463/wide-hammered-sterling-silver-ring" target="_blank">the ring</a>. This couple loves Ray LaMontagne, has seen him perform live several times, and wanted to incorporate some of his lyrics into the custom ring design.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/59518463/wide-hammered-sterling-silver-ring" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht88UrYjTMoV1HGdD7qSf1ow4mLXR82oxtUA4_8D3JUkBnlcRxmHqIk6rAhGs3rwdHGXTBFQnToJ_4XhiWHWkskuRaesMmgegZLgro6CpV3eUVBvPWt5MmjTVJl0ECRmgPi8zryhURygo/s1600/DSC_0084.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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They selected the lyrics "forever my friend, forever my love" from the song "Forever My Friend" on his 2004 release <i>Trouble</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/59518463/wide-hammered-sterling-silver-ring" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1lPY9SWEjeh9IRxKc0JO7z0Wmn4v65eqrldhzWhKaLSxpOEC2mR7KEVaRCTr2WnApfLv1sI14z80fSYaofmyvmS7Qc2EqFRDYuQmO7Og2Lje5pR5cSj1Doa8bWsoqy5WdvdQzVUjNvE/s1600/DSC_0087.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Later, the husband reached out to me once again to order a custom sterling silver bracelet for his wife – this time with lyrics from another of their favorite musical artists, Brandi Carlile. Her song "Fall Apart Again" from her self-titled album contains this beautiful line: "<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">As long as the day is full of time, t</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">here will always be room f</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">or your hand in mine."</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGU00hpceZJgjC6AaR2gDi5XO3jnDo8rKx6t2g1D9ZE2xpU5uMYTxpmR3KYbiwRc2uuCmCobkiapEyyuah7_jlsT1T-tlk5IySQ1FK9PKHouaQpwsiimW9TAknEgeduc5N-EBP8PxpSQ/s1600/DSC_0172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGU00hpceZJgjC6AaR2gDi5XO3jnDo8rKx6t2g1D9ZE2xpU5uMYTxpmR3KYbiwRc2uuCmCobkiapEyyuah7_jlsT1T-tlk5IySQ1FK9PKHouaQpwsiimW9TAknEgeduc5N-EBP8PxpSQ/s1600/DSC_0172.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /><span style="line-height: 16px;">The lyrics fit absolutely perfectly on this sterling silver cuff bracelet.</span><br /> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg6Gi3H6EJAxf5xtWznSU4KQwfoqsl8hqIbPKb_FghXHm0f1PevLXWwvni8GX-xvgsvbuBVjDxvZLbhaWlCO4qaMfygGT5iBveLyKtZRlMVEj2sEXGsRIe28FuD5W_C6dU-cgqsGMwAU/s1600/DSC_0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQg6Gi3H6EJAxf5xtWznSU4KQwfoqsl8hqIbPKb_FghXHm0f1PevLXWwvni8GX-xvgsvbuBVjDxvZLbhaWlCO4qaMfygGT5iBveLyKtZRlMVEj2sEXGsRIe28FuD5W_C6dU-cgqsGMwAU/s1600/DSC_0174.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">Valentine's Day is just two weeks away! But there's still time to order a custom gift for your special someone. I'll be working overtime this coming week to get all your orders shipped on time. What lyrics do you think </span></span><span style="line-height: 16px;">would</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"> be </span></span><span style="line-height: 16px;">perfect on jewelry for your sweetie? </span></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><a href="mailto:lofteddesigns@gmail.com" target="_blank">Contact me</a> to talk about your gift idea today. </span></span></div>
</span><br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-62014907551453393202014-01-19T11:57:00.000-05:002014-01-19T14:52:25.150-05:00Handcrafted Copper Cuff BraceletsNow available by popular demand: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176247334/hand-stamped-copper-cuff-bracelet" target="_blank">handcrafted copper cuff bracelets</a> from Lofted Designs!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lvzI9IfMypL8yLtCrMwv7TWCGUS2-2x-o_GQFHOIGWYR0zELowvGNXXAsJd7ejuNntKlKqw5DABTK7SG_9TnWHt_yVZYJypyFnr-h0Gjwg_NTlJhX_ktdWJPPFeaCYfcqzKQPG2R76U/s1600/copper2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3lvzI9IfMypL8yLtCrMwv7TWCGUS2-2x-o_GQFHOIGWYR0zELowvGNXXAsJd7ejuNntKlKqw5DABTK7SG_9TnWHt_yVZYJypyFnr-h0Gjwg_NTlJhX_ktdWJPPFeaCYfcqzKQPG2R76U/s1600/copper2.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Back in December, I created 40 of these bracelets as a custom order for holiday gifts at a school. I designed two different sets: one specifically for teachers and one for the school's administrative and support staff.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF96XfLfx6WmQ_IjSh5tPOGQUS7Rr7ewVtJoDpiwEPIEg-ARhy2IrhTqKDSVw_B4XlwJ_FrN6V3aK1l7ndc8bgLWhADDkoPXXTVydmTGm5DTrvDMH6REGs8bD8GjcGuzNqUcSmEyBalrE/s1600/copper4.JPG" height="320" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These were custom teacher gifts for the holidays</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: start;">After sharing photos of the custom bracelets on <a href="http://instagram.com/p/hG7XPhQybx/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lofteddesigns" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, many people asked how they could purchase one for themselves. I hadn't originally planned to offer them as a regular item in my Etsy shop, but enough people seemed interested that I've decided to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176247334/hand-stamped-copper-cuff-bracelet" target="_blank">list them for purchase</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176247334/hand-stamped-copper-cuff-bracelet" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifEFD5LoW3H8T18HOIqOqUenBqP2juU_nLzGl8XFMKPK1C6dl5W-ZF9pC0616xJuvCrwHWaTeEUDQlFQxsg8RD2EJwgGG_sPZxm33VajJcfToBhyphenhyphen0YCqO1gRrH9LVqrqx-hgYa7oFF8P0/s1600/copper1.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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For just $28, you can select your finish (hammered or smooth) and choose from one of these phrases or suggest your own:<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Guardian-EgypTT-Text, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"><span style="color: #444444;">dream ❤ teach ❤ inspire</span></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Guardian-EgypTT-Text, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px; text-align: start;">dream ❤ explore ❤ inspire </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: Guardian-EgypTT-Text, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px; text-align: start;">imagine ❤ believe ❤ dream</span></div>
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Please allow up to two weeks for custom orders to be handcrafted, plus shipping time which varies by destination.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/176247334/hand-stamped-copper-cuff-bracelet" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1bmzlQ2EnWSkWRLaWXGxbQFW8B6dS-qT-VW_i1afY_W-j0G6Op-ND8c1pco842Vor7H8LVZ7_5E0O9p5F_xLil6N5f857zPOekjKaHMNOYJKkkz6w2MEoQS4olTQpEjtC-jc3qOJunc/s1600/SHOP-NOW.jpg" height="59" width="200" /></a></div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-42571583767442146332014-01-18T18:35:00.000-05:002014-01-18T18:35:53.355-05:00Restoring a Family HeirloomWhen a friend and long-time jewelry client approached me with a broken family heirloom — a beautiful antique signet ring — I'll admit I was intimidated at first, and for many reasons:<br />
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1. The piece had sentimental value.<br />
2. It looked delicate and frail.<br />
3. It was broken in not one, but two places.<br />
4. It was GOLD. As a rule, I <u>never</u> work with gold. Gold intimidates me and it's so costly.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguly63oMIlsZwMVvCcr_9ul32vz9DF6S7H2w1mpnYf4pDUYobHVkDwHO4yqLp5NLBJJzy6Ng1Z51iC-O60ChsFrtpLl4KPqQwkCpgHjCGzzBr6egCROWBuffmMF2CDiAQ7CLgHs32MEbs/s1600/IMG_5555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguly63oMIlsZwMVvCcr_9ul32vz9DF6S7H2w1mpnYf4pDUYobHVkDwHO4yqLp5NLBJJzy6Ng1Z51iC-O60ChsFrtpLl4KPqQwkCpgHjCGzzBr6egCROWBuffmMF2CDiAQ7CLgHs32MEbs/s320/IMG_5555.JPG" height="316" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nmYAWrSRt_4mdDR00LLVifuSYBPzDSM_YFHniQ1brkWWEgbyMgMrfLtFbNma_hLIBTuXA07tZ8Olaig9MYOtmNdoizToFATqfO-SQBgQ69mBVfgkFhLQvAGpAW_Rri7Sc6uC-kJYaTg/s1600/IMG_5556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9nmYAWrSRt_4mdDR00LLVifuSYBPzDSM_YFHniQ1brkWWEgbyMgMrfLtFbNma_hLIBTuXA07tZ8Olaig9MYOtmNdoizToFATqfO-SQBgQ69mBVfgkFhLQvAGpAW_Rri7Sc6uC-kJYaTg/s320/IMG_5556.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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But for some reason, I said yes to the project. Perhaps because she is a friend. Perhaps because I looked at it as a new challenge and a way to break out of my comfort zone. And perhaps also because she told me she would not be devastated if something horrible happened to the ring (i.e., if I accidentally melted it).<br />
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This is because the ring's history within her family is a bit fuzzy – the signet ring may have belonged to a great uncle or possibly an aunt. The S seal doesn't match up with any of the family member's last names, therefore its previous owner is unclear. Strangely enough, S is my friend's first name <u>and</u> married name initial so it has now found its rightful owner as far as I'm concerned.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCylCQTfKJffqkvceoICPEs5jVRN9H5PAnzcnjsjMK6mU9065BtNgIVBhBNzBceEyyTtQ46z5c0hAMZp4L3YBNjbGBbpsKosiTtA8lkKHdnWK6bfR3VoTWZ__Gn0hLhJBBQ_mNjCQCoM/s1600/Jewelry-Restoration-Gold-Ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieCylCQTfKJffqkvceoICPEs5jVRN9H5PAnzcnjsjMK6mU9065BtNgIVBhBNzBceEyyTtQ46z5c0hAMZp4L3YBNjbGBbpsKosiTtA8lkKHdnWK6bfR3VoTWZ__Gn0hLhJBBQ_mNjCQCoM/s320/Jewelry-Restoration-Gold-Ring.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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The ring was found in a jewelry box long after anyone familiar with its origins was alive to tell its story. Hopefully now, after some solid restoration work at my soldering bench, it will live on to tell a new story to future generations.Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-59680471474811647822013-12-29T16:00:00.001-05:002013-12-29T16:01:15.806-05:002014 Calendar RoundupI am VERY picky when it comes to certain things. Shoes for sure. Jewelry definitely. And most assuredly calendars. It's a little ridiculous. I didn't even realize how particular I was about calendars until I started looking for a suitable version for 2014.<br />
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Here is my list of criteria:<br />
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<b>1. It must fit the space I have pre-designated for a calendar in my home</b>. I always hang it in the same spot on a small wall between my entryway and kitchen, beside a mirror. It is a vertical space and the calendar can be no more than 10" wide. That drastically narrows the field (pun intended).<br />
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<b>2. It must be pre-printed for me.</b> In perusing Etsy for calendar selections this year, I noticed a lot marked as "printable download." I'll be the first to admit that my printer sucks. And even if it were a fantastic printer, by the time I got around to purchasing high-quality paper worthy of a calendar the year would be half over.<br />
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<b>3. I'm picky about quality</b> (see criteria #2), so it has to be either letterpress printed or screenprinted, or at the very least printed on heavy cardstock. I want crisp lines and vibrant colors.<br />
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<b>4. I need a fresh image or graphic each month.</b> I relish in the ritual of turning to a fresh, new page on the first of the month, so no at-a-glance, all-in-one calendars will do.<br />
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<b>5. I have to love it.</b> Every single month doesn't have to blow me away, but I have to be able to live with the theme for a full year.<br />
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Following this list, I have narrowed down my selections to the following calendars:<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115210412/2014-monthly-wall-calendar-bold-modern" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC9rMhRZg9ZVh3GpLdhr3wj9eeG8SUTKecSRRUq39ZuOjGyHayKnEesF8eleqNVI3xxtH7139rcu1sp1pTN-nG_BWX3fTuzG-MYqye69obiWX8OepD_JPXi95rvjMj1iWFbvbnIac37Mg/s400/Christine-Marie-B.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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Bold, bright, modern patterns printed on matte cardstock from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115210412/2014-monthly-wall-calendar-bold-modern" target="_blank">christine marie b</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166983415/2014-calendar-seasons" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHwQ6q7UtiCLx8CZ70LA8e_guSTCur45IszI5wjMdUYqZrWdJDfUw0AeJhPt_gwmNvbQmD02SL9VzpG-metvT1PNyxFsR9sLkD64nmWHBGXF-26kHS7QTjJulnSZd83ojvlH7ZlGrPM7M/s400/Dozi.jpg" width="361" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159787067/2014-wall-calendar-shapes" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNLviZ-M6sWW2O6yPWkEo8oYMPxBfjTPbwrOXG6iBrv1Dk_FaocAk7SjAz0RS-3Xz1dpAC7j-HTd6XzqteJha65R3cuQMkFPca_FnmYN_wMjqmRG-GFHMWIXTkJQPNyArQZAefk9a2fw/s400/Dozi-Shapes.jpg" width="346" /></a></div>
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I love BOTH of these calendars from Dozi. The top one features adorable illustrations representative of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166983415/2014-calendar-seasons" target="_blank">each month</a>, while the second focuses on <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/159787067/2014-wall-calendar-shapes" target="_blank">geometric shapes</a>. Both are printed on matte cover weight paper. </div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/114585733/2014-letterpress-calendar-in-twelve" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjArmGyBvsIBzMx1D0abzAox_oGIvITxaG5uzkfc4thOp35i_thI1FaRyZP5TjYovM6u0CrdJeaE4x705PTYUcoe5qKLcoBBjOk4cIgurGW6IcjkdAYWwQOh0c2AZlv83tq9CEZbAc_Ms/s400/SpoonandSailor.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This amazing <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/114585733/2014-letterpress-calendar-in-twelve" target="_blank">animal illustration calendar</a> is made by Spoon&Sailor in Rhode Island. They letterpress on 100% cotton (tree-free!) paper on a Chandler & Price antique press.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167542705/pattern-post-card-2014-calendar" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHhJjXRQ3LFqyAh38SecPEdx608kBbBMq6ChkJlVOPDPtGckgUadJGfKjCw9oA1oOyOCNTkidm3ZM733F9LIf_JSjka3WT8f_TZv1GibXJMvXhYG1w-mFV8e8BahYl8oHRdXMGOL78QU/s320/StationeryBoutique.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167542705/pattern-post-card-2014-calendar" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4GYhBV9cq5kgX30aT0gy-cvmXTPGng9LEzUXoK6IXGemI9sO7YhS_rku8gMzYeZ-vNgUxSjDKikesfsuOgaJ52PWds3X_2qbCkmG1cI5kRvYxF2R8jjZd5nyBuetx-Rq9u2JKWnlbzzc/s320/il_fullxfull.519755085_6gpj.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Stationery Boutique out of Colorado has designed a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/167542705/pattern-post-card-2014-calendar" target="_blank">gorgeous pattern calendar</a> this year, and this one is currently at the top of my list because each page doubles as a mailable postcard when the month is through. If you know me at all, you know how much I love sending postcards.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158834017/american-roadtrip-2014-calendar-5x7-wall" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaujz5ZioHc8ITbeGJJIp_DdX4vhiU88Cj13UhD5aTY2aahynp6qhZg0vYyi4xw7c5ksXDMjs3jZQfRN8CDo2bvOZISM2mL2TOhbgGe1nP9n-j0AZ2x87arZ2KQnQSynXwHuBlJkZGbjE/s320/LittleLow.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
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I had a Little Low adventure-of-the-month calendar in 2013 and absolutely LOVED it! Every month was darling. I'm strongly considering their <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/158834017/american-roadtrip-2014-calendar-5x7-wall" target="_blank">great American roadtrip</a> calendar this year.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164786431/2014-beerfood-calendar" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqFkApj6kbQU0roiOQzOGLva7AkVwBYCuEVMpe0ZiF72jK7PgEPYAOKrnAvdiaY6B9NiAVAK3VSYnR6BKV0Xg8ooY1jlkvY38Y2fWrxTyvISr2iFYHdlwwdv8jfTadBtnL3qAbenGw7NY/s320/RedCruiser.jpg" width="280" /></a></div>
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Red Cruiser came out with this fantastic <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164786431/2014-beerfood-calendar" target="_blank">food/beer pairings</a> calendar and I absolutely love the colors and whimsical style. My only issue is that some months feature meat. Sure, I can easily pretend it's fake meat...fake bacon in March, piles of Tofurky® slices on that June sandwich, veggie dog in July, etc. But should I? I'm not sure. Needless to say, August (pictured above) would be my favorite month by far.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164649779/2014-watercolor-clipboard-wall-calendar" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4oFL3Y_FBbClUK47WbDVuCh9v0xrh0jZ_sQJTfB9XOrKAk3kw72BumIiPS3KlgihyphenhyphenVLOY7G3S0R9BNU3wQFhpkuXPZ_hAMuG8J05xBTYyKI-HIIbyAL5spwK9MJI4C8ejEDwo7w7bRzk/s320/FrecklePaper.jpg" width="301" /></a></div>
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Each month of the 2014 Freckle Paper <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/164649779/2014-watercolor-clipboard-wall-calendar" target="_blank">flea market finds</a> calendar features a hand painted watercolor illustration of an antique object found at a flea market. Charming. Subdued. It comes on a clipboard for hanging.</div>
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Help me decide!! Before it's too late and they all sell out. :)Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-6063909345140757292013-12-20T10:01:00.002-05:002013-12-21T15:41:10.056-05:00This Needs No Explanation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/117843399/lack-of-planning-on-your-part-does-not" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieSInZx2VtD1MPRI3i0-FLFqFma7KYUmf8Y2vgBxR3Q93Nd-y-loIZfzoWxNefz0MmfYFuZOPHhH00eN7Hq1XXrCmhOih7dChKF8yIQvzigjAYJqG32X9mkMF6IV2iiMvnKIvlmPmcBmA/s400/il_570xN.539572439_moy6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-27053018502456318342013-12-19T13:06:00.002-05:002013-12-19T13:19:31.558-05:00Open House This Sunday - Dec. 22nd<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0Rf23tRWPLtaN-Z2xm6JQf9Boye67uefgKwGRL2e5eNJZfs2yFqZk7GjSRreKOjfgVhS2i6O0pK-wwgKQ-wKX8Pt2zy3yIpd_fIe0hdL7GAO63WciyHpLIeUw28eN1TkO2dYrR5dzzo/s1600/OpenHouseGraphic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs0Rf23tRWPLtaN-Z2xm6JQf9Boye67uefgKwGRL2e5eNJZfs2yFqZk7GjSRreKOjfgVhS2i6O0pK-wwgKQ-wKX8Pt2zy3yIpd_fIe0hdL7GAO63WciyHpLIeUw28eN1TkO2dYrR5dzzo/s320/OpenHouseGraphic.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Since Mother Nature doesn't seem to be cooperating with my craft show plans this year (snowstorms have thwarted two events), I'm taking matters into my own hands and setting up shop in my living room <b>this Sunday</b> from <b>noon until 3pm</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">I have lots of handmade jewelry ready for gift giving and stocking stuffing, so I hope you can stop by to do a little last-minute shopping. I'll even gift wrap for you!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">It'll be a laid back afternoon with light refreshments and a beautiful view on Bullfrog Lane. Please feel free to bring a friend or two! You can preview a <a href="http://www.lofteddesigns.com/" target="_blank">sampling of</a></span><span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.lofteddesigns.com/" target="_blank"> my work on Etsy</a>. Much more will be available in person.</span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px;"><b>Noon - 3pm</b></span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px;">York, Maine</span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;"><br /></span>
<span class="text_exposed_show" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; display: inline; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px; text-align: left;">Cash, checks and credit cards are all welcome. Please <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/744608022234103/" target="_blank">RSVP on Facebook</a> if you think you can make it and help spread the word. Thanks and h</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 15.994318008422852px;">ope to see you!</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.727272033691406px; line-height: 15.994318008422852px;"> </span><br />
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-1917006292822149992013-12-15T14:39:00.000-05:002013-12-15T17:44:50.796-05:00Gifts for Social Media Mavens, Graphic Designers and Web DevelopersWhen I'm not making jewelry, I'm usually at my day job as an account manager at <a href="http://www.vtldesign.com/" target="_blank">Vital</a>, a creative digital agency in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. They specialize in kick-ass graphic design, web development and content marketing, and this means I work with some amazingly talented people.<br />
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As I've been doing some last minute online shopping, I keep coming across great gift ideas that made me think of my co-workers. I thought I'd share the wealth in case you also have some creative types on your list who still need holiday gifts.<br />
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Here they are...my<b> top gift picks for social media mavens, graphic designers and web developers</b>:</div>
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<b>1. For the social media aficionado</b><br />
These <a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/instagram-hashtag-necklaces/" target="_blank">necklaces from Photojojo</a> are the perfect gift for your friend who can't help but post every single meal he or she has ever eaten since they started an Instagram account. Available in "Like" style pictured here, and also in hashtags: #nofilter and #selfie – $25 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqj-3pVcrIoF4LBOzZrHx_heNpk0C8ERYNZypChqQHOe-Qt3otV8Mrb2wBVGkihMt8-WqsfhyphenhyphenS6vmNo8vaZ3QjftYHGvboXnZo61w9y1zKjIpISYG4X7fUUg30Vjv3s8Ce_UDsjtQuvs/s1600/instagram-hashtag-necklaces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWqj-3pVcrIoF4LBOzZrHx_heNpk0C8ERYNZypChqQHOe-Qt3otV8Mrb2wBVGkihMt8-WqsfhyphenhyphenS6vmNo8vaZ3QjftYHGvboXnZo61w9y1zKjIpISYG4X7fUUg30Vjv3s8Ce_UDsjtQuvs/s320/instagram-hashtag-necklaces.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>2. For the photo app obsessed</b><br />
<a href="http://photojojo.com/store/awesomeness/photo-love-app-icon-pins/" target="_blank">These pins</a> will help your photo app obsessed pal show the world how much they love Photoshop, Pinterest or Instagram. Laser cut acrylic, exclusively available from Photojojo and made in San Francisco by Plastique – $12 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN4Jw8DHwQbmBcR0IEs8XNrxKF1G45om6HauZvttlX2VyvZ7gYMbua17SBt0Yq4EEKCkWfK2Ih7BeaNX1fo8CIAlG87EPI2lYEiN_abd65wwKAdJ8ZI73SvtQyCWTDCtc1JSZs9dut0c/s1600/plastique-photo-love-pins-e348_600.0000001386120113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTN4Jw8DHwQbmBcR0IEs8XNrxKF1G45om6HauZvttlX2VyvZ7gYMbua17SBt0Yq4EEKCkWfK2Ih7BeaNX1fo8CIAlG87EPI2lYEiN_abd65wwKAdJ8ZI73SvtQyCWTDCtc1JSZs9dut0c/s320/plastique-photo-love-pins-e348_600.0000001386120113.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>3. For the graphic designer</b><br />
If you know someone who truly appreciates great graphic design, turn to Society6 for unique framed prints, canvas prints, iPhone and iPad cases, mugs, tote bags and more. Some of my favorite designs are by fellow Maine artists <a href="http://society6.com/morrisessex/" target="_blank">Morris & Essex</a> and <a href="http://society6.com/jenniferjuddmcgee" target="_blank">Jennifer Judd-McGee</a>.<br />
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Thousands of artists from around the world contribute designs, so you can literally search for ANY topic and come up with gift ideas for anyone. <a href="http://society6.com/search?q=beagle&page=1&count=25&product=pillows" target="_blank">Beagle pillows anyone</a>? Prices vary by item.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-7NtfQyGkCF5ZLCsHg6o_y1NEXDv2sN_hvtoxVLUZ8WzNIG5p5T73wo8Rb4XpnH3bTOu5ik7FBHusU6tXNr53vYXNSBhwLkfCPdZcDZ0Af0kmePgXRIhnSpIibpcsLhGCMsMl1Fpfi4/s1600/1268731_2632888-caseiphone5_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4-7NtfQyGkCF5ZLCsHg6o_y1NEXDv2sN_hvtoxVLUZ8WzNIG5p5T73wo8Rb4XpnH3bTOu5ik7FBHusU6tXNr53vYXNSBhwLkfCPdZcDZ0Af0kmePgXRIhnSpIibpcsLhGCMsMl1Fpfi4/s320/1268731_2632888-caseiphone5_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morris & Essex iPhone case</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrVsBc1aLRFBGkUhPlNCqH8BXcmBbkz68ECpCmvuRnfBzBc-OWu2Qc0GnkFjDAYBXN6npKAtTAjwsHaByZ3CL9IvpcQz1KJksaTCUrdzcKrIf12h6-pBU6mgTgUpBQ5buW9o9sfCZres/s1600/4880802_8693246-plwfr2_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrVsBc1aLRFBGkUhPlNCqH8BXcmBbkz68ECpCmvuRnfBzBc-OWu2Qc0GnkFjDAYBXN6npKAtTAjwsHaByZ3CL9IvpcQz1KJksaTCUrdzcKrIf12h6-pBU6mgTgUpBQ5buW9o9sfCZres/s320/4880802_8693246-plwfr2_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jennifer Judd-McGee Throw Pillow</td></tr>
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<b>4. For the typography obsessed</b><br />
Available as a t-shirt or hoodie, this kerning reference cracks me up. <a href="http://wordsbrand.com/hoodies/i-would-kern-you-so-tight-typography-hoodie/" target="_blank">Kerning Hoodie</a> – $35.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EqKIniH8jsUFkt2CTnj8pOcq3esfTpDdZsKFHAHEoeuGwv2qDzJ79862QWRDAVJmYjD0fkbQ0gQhPQzZIuh44TtuCt4mPU043v0RUkMs_RBmAUjXZ97Tt0OgBn0SW9o-YOincIZvTJg/s1600/I_WOULD_KERN_YOU_SO_TIGHT_HOODIE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EqKIniH8jsUFkt2CTnj8pOcq3esfTpDdZsKFHAHEoeuGwv2qDzJ79862QWRDAVJmYjD0fkbQ0gQhPQzZIuh44TtuCt4mPU043v0RUkMs_RBmAUjXZ97Tt0OgBn0SW9o-YOincIZvTJg/s320/I_WOULD_KERN_YOU_SO_TIGHT_HOODIE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>5. For the coffee connoisseur</b><br />
Finally! Pantone makes their signature <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/products/product.aspx?pid=1452&ca=33" target="_blank">mugs with spill-proof lids</a>. Remove spill risk and avoid coffee/computer disasters while drinking in style. Available in a variety of colors from Pantone Universe – $17 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDx-AqoSw08UYS5qER7WbdHQWKAsicXcjTNpOXO0D4B9_X9Kox7sgXUD75t1WD4QDaYak9sia66RwlsrnxrEhOVDpvcVEH0xRCXM5IMIraZH_LHRh8D778IoGZAjmNNFVjAec6JCq62I/s1600/Screen+Shot+2013-12-15+at+2.19.19+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCDx-AqoSw08UYS5qER7WbdHQWKAsicXcjTNpOXO0D4B9_X9Kox7sgXUD75t1WD4QDaYak9sia66RwlsrnxrEhOVDpvcVEH0xRCXM5IMIraZH_LHRh8D778IoGZAjmNNFVjAec6JCq62I/s320/Screen+Shot+2013-12-15+at+2.19.19+PM.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>6. For that guy who plays his music way too loud</b></div>
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There's at least one in every office. You know who he is. <a href="http://shop.theunrefinery.com/product/volume" target="_blank">The Unrefinery</a> makes the perfect shirt. Simple, affordable – $18 each.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBG35KrOsBVjQj00MpakmwfcB_p0KxDuis-fPMd2Vc5gGJXKGpJqiJzhpHXbH2XY1zjih1w2Xp89nQGQC0j38VrklSRSRewAwdHCjsAFE-QY5tr2DNYxbuFNPn-6p_7qrS7VM3UK5dAcQ/s1600/VolumeShirtOrange.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBG35KrOsBVjQj00MpakmwfcB_p0KxDuis-fPMd2Vc5gGJXKGpJqiJzhpHXbH2XY1zjih1w2Xp89nQGQC0j38VrklSRSRewAwdHCjsAFE-QY5tr2DNYxbuFNPn-6p_7qrS7VM3UK5dAcQ/s1600/VolumeShirtOrange.png" /></a></div>
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<b>7. For that awesome developer chick</b><br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/68160048/binary-code-cuff-bracelet-in-copper" target="_blank">Custom binary cuff bracelet</a> by Karla Wheeler Design on Etsy. Have your own message etched in copper for $70.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDBptRrAeBcYyCMolOY6eOsxTeYz6Y1xsXIPXyvgT67e5TembdPZBgkd-1yY39B020DGN8Ei0-kwOSrKL0ft16Vcr_DMoo_di7fEH-WNxASKNNlXoaFBOCgOA5EqfE6RawWQaa0MT4FQ/s1600/BinaryBracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVDBptRrAeBcYyCMolOY6eOsxTeYz6Y1xsXIPXyvgT67e5TembdPZBgkd-1yY39B020DGN8Ei0-kwOSrKL0ft16Vcr_DMoo_di7fEH-WNxASKNNlXoaFBOCgOA5EqfE6RawWQaa0MT4FQ/s320/BinaryBracelet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>8. For your nerdy other half</b><br />
Shameless Lofted Designs plug. These sterling silver rings written in binary code are the perfect gift for your geeky sweetheart. They spell 'I love you" in a 1s and 0s. Great for guys and ladies.<br />
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163168728/sterling-silver-binary-code-ring-i-love" target="_blank">Binary Code Rings</a> by Lofted Designs – $35 each.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipr5G4b2fRT2X3afvNU9Rm8wT90AsvlF_559BFCA5qUe7jb9cAchGfT8mEDuX_RlS90eziY9Hch38vUFGlmK2BmsL0YGgjTO1NpAyMzD8tjPXllszkhQlHBjKrIGkCVpdlTc_FU0JEZTg/s1600/IMG_5538.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipr5G4b2fRT2X3afvNU9Rm8wT90AsvlF_559BFCA5qUe7jb9cAchGfT8mEDuX_RlS90eziY9Hch38vUFGlmK2BmsL0YGgjTO1NpAyMzD8tjPXllszkhQlHBjKrIGkCVpdlTc_FU0JEZTg/s320/IMG_5538.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>9. For the Apple obsessed</b></div>
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Delight your Apple-obsessed friends with this fantastic print. One of my favorite small companies Pop Chart Lab has created a comprehensive <a href="http://popchartlab.com/collections/prints/products/the-insanely-great-history-of-apple" target="_blank">visual map of the history of Apple products</a>. Unframed print – $36.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxePp_e9OEfLHWiqdCTl5RqPMGuZMjwYqGR1T36VcTP1u1b-JXH955d31Ei4rIMaDU_SddM7TQ9WKtb6dGZSOm04sGU-mx7v60CdLNKNxU8qdm7MD6WoWQ9uA62MB23eoz1ffWhgx0qk/s1600/P-AppleDeluxe_Main_500x669_B_1024x1024.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxePp_e9OEfLHWiqdCTl5RqPMGuZMjwYqGR1T36VcTP1u1b-JXH955d31Ei4rIMaDU_SddM7TQ9WKtb6dGZSOm04sGU-mx7v60CdLNKNxU8qdm7MD6WoWQ9uA62MB23eoz1ffWhgx0qk/s320/P-AppleDeluxe_Main_500x669_B_1024x1024.jpeg" width="239" /></a></div>
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If you act fast, you can still order most of these and have them arrive before Christmas!</div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-54712617308947050492013-12-11T20:25:00.000-05:002013-12-11T20:25:44.598-05:00Lofted Designs Marks 600th Etsy SaleI kind of want to throw a party and do a happy dance, but it's really busy right now up in the loft so I'm just going to write this quick blog post and have my own private party while I make more jewelry.<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;">I JUST HIT 600 SALES ON <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns" target="_blank">ETSY</a>!!!!</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_xHuiBbMDnLSZc11JBYc8TJbHVQI8WmM4UX9W5kuVijtQA_VKcp-PJHZx-IZF5nKdV87627jAlWCfNAEZRBrw3q1JWMeIk_rnt7IJF8elKzrCQ9uU4EhAKTt7oyV1zhttbvUnihdP6g/s1600/Etsy-600-Sales.png" /></a></div>
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In case you're wondering, the 600th sale was a customer in Canada purchasing a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/56047380/personalized-birthstone-eternity" target="_blank">personalized birthstone necklace</a>. Thank you to ALL of my wonderful customers for helping me reach this milestone!<br />
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/56047380/personalized-birthstone-eternity" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlYEoe__zxkos2K2WSSoEJ-krTy06DVTmAyeUNXGqbdeCzf5LbCtr7M0CBgf70Fk5E-gZiGIad93UKKoSpLYASk5XuL2Tzt-n-j47bqZDlbCLRWZlsglQeTCJp1aJ3J40QuKsPPPxaMw/s320/birthstone-necklace.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-22856968039953061902013-12-02T21:46:00.001-05:002013-12-03T10:50:27.546-05:00Pop-Up Holiday Fair in York, Maine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_u3DMIgBX0VqzDp5XX3R_tey_brMK0BOFmmrz3u7AfLcoXCVzAfL_ZMHXcj8-RS_csJXTP0MMnxvMQAFNgvtmj6LO0jXH81hNfctQ2o1moXKQEccur40CNVvEGOtseYjByhk4hqRGA-A/s1600/InnatRidgeRd-Craft-Fair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_u3DMIgBX0VqzDp5XX3R_tey_brMK0BOFmmrz3u7AfLcoXCVzAfL_ZMHXcj8-RS_csJXTP0MMnxvMQAFNgvtmj6LO0jXH81hNfctQ2o1moXKQEccur40CNVvEGOtseYjByhk4hqRGA-A/s320/InnatRidgeRd-Craft-Fair.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Remember that amazing <a href="http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20110915-ENTERTAIN-109150328?cid=sitesearch" target="_blank">3S Artspace event</a> a couple of years ago at the Nevada Motel in York Beach, Maine, when artists took over individual motel rooms and created incredibly innovative installation pieces? This is not that. But it's a pretty great idea in its own right. </span><br />
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This <b>Tuesday night</b> in York, Maine, local artists will host a pop-up holiday show in the guest rooms at the <a href="http://theinnatridgeroad.com/Site/Welcome.html" target="_blank">Inn at Ridge Road</a> in York, Maine.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">December 3rd, 2013</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">6:30 pm - 9ish</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Inn at Ridge Road</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">281 Ridge Road</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">York, ME 03909</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzJ-jU8VsYJz6bq8-RLHqiFAXOrcMRk9Q4ewqkV8S_zEvHQEHuAfNDpOXjVDOmslrNJQIszMF5OvfWwefVEypSnklRJx9LR_Y3RlxqOAGAOO_n98tl_pX8envz0dwK0_NSkyuETtkthw/s1600/Inn+at+Ridge+Road.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzJ-jU8VsYJz6bq8-RLHqiFAXOrcMRk9Q4ewqkV8S_zEvHQEHuAfNDpOXjVDOmslrNJQIszMF5OvfWwefVEypSnklRJx9LR_Y3RlxqOAGAOO_n98tl_pX8envz0dwK0_NSkyuETtkthw/s320/Inn+at+Ridge+Road.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Light refreshments and <b>wine</b> will be available, as well as lots of beautiful <b>locally-made gifts</b>. Some of the vendors include:</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/SewHappyDesignsbyAbbyR" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Sew Happy Designs</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Twig Candles</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.oceanfirepottery.com/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Ocean Fire Pottery</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Katlyns Handmade Crafts</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Treehugger Designs</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://glowbodywork.com/just-bee/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Just Bee Skinfood & Soap</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">...and of course me! </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">Lofted Designs</a></span></div>
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Spread the word and come on by! Hope to see you there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-62511348088481438272013-12-01T10:21:00.001-05:002013-12-01T10:42:45.886-05:00BDN Maine Food and Gift Fair - A RecapThe BDN Maine Holiday Food and Gift Fair was held in Portland, Maine, yesterday – Saturday, November 30th – and <a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/2013/11/maine-holiday-food-and-gift-fair.html" target="_blank">I was very excited to take part</a>. I do love food, and was sandwiched between Dean's Sweets and the Super Stick Food Flipper booth for the day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiAFwmQ5z66E8EE0rKIDuUSNkAYILtqdCPtxFP4hcdb979_2xolTdwN26g0AoCXRa8QXzHGhkw24SyGEFfsSdxBv3-68TLkMjeHr-MZPPcFzD8Kfts8fJJcPR9uw60DNRMBjF5ZR-t4og/s1600/blogger-image--1413600436.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiAFwmQ5z66E8EE0rKIDuUSNkAYILtqdCPtxFP4hcdb979_2xolTdwN26g0AoCXRa8QXzHGhkw24SyGEFfsSdxBv3-68TLkMjeHr-MZPPcFzD8Kfts8fJJcPR9uw60DNRMBjF5ZR-t4og/s320/blogger-image--1413600436.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here's a look at my very official looking booth – it's the first show I've ever done where they put up pipe and drape! And my very own sign! This made it feel much more legit than the fairs I typically do.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8OCCKXdgGT2Am3hx9gu-NhfEamt0u_Uq6zv7gW32UQyF913pjGtNuriUveiUvFxqe7dtfVktI0yrs82j3iwoIXJb-c9hUT0iepxFjGBtaTs_eopWB_PZkPA2p3ZSslEUV-dhJrxWeco/s1600/blogger-image--623437556.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8OCCKXdgGT2Am3hx9gu-NhfEamt0u_Uq6zv7gW32UQyF913pjGtNuriUveiUvFxqe7dtfVktI0yrs82j3iwoIXJb-c9hUT0iepxFjGBtaTs_eopWB_PZkPA2p3ZSslEUV-dhJrxWeco/s320/blogger-image--623437556.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The foot traffic was a bit light, and I'm not exactly sure why. Most people I talked to thought the event was well-advertised in local papers and online, but for whatever reason – possibly location – there just weren't too many people making their way out the Portland Company Complex. It does take a little extra effort to get there and parking can be an issue in Portland.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LqA9zguPMUpvZ45hqVSW54qzQLzRfSrdCig_DIdq1rBobpEOOSkJcX8gWtAs3dWuPqZN0SOohBVo1oG_fyntTTv-2b8HaCO5aiRJLZ5U9aZMjocG5Y5ulu3JgvuMZby4KMt7ga0eFsg/s1600/blogger-image-565855140.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_LqA9zguPMUpvZ45hqVSW54qzQLzRfSrdCig_DIdq1rBobpEOOSkJcX8gWtAs3dWuPqZN0SOohBVo1oG_fyntTTv-2b8HaCO5aiRJLZ5U9aZMjocG5Y5ulu3JgvuMZby4KMt7ga0eFsg/s320/blogger-image-565855140.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But no matter. I can ALWAYS find the silver lining. I had a great day getting to know my neighbors and admiring their work. I also made some excellent trades...<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUzbXTaJzXO_xz3E3fRvLz7st9pxXnYI23PiTIrLBnp8NK6Ve7zkVVvm-CUp23TSqQd0lNCOx3Z1DcPmVJHPllF7x-hDZUl0iaIapoIM752WgahG3WKJaDTF1ojIqaMXZvYuBjTQ2epY/s640/blogger-image-838495015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYUzbXTaJzXO_xz3E3fRvLz7st9pxXnYI23PiTIrLBnp8NK6Ve7zkVVvm-CUp23TSqQd0lNCOx3Z1DcPmVJHPllF7x-hDZUl0iaIapoIM752WgahG3WKJaDTF1ojIqaMXZvYuBjTQ2epY/s320/blogger-image-838495015.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I traded with Eliza of <a href="http://www.morrisessex.com/" target="_blank">Morris & Essex</a> for a gorgeous box of letterpress holiday cards.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNiUJuC1JUMl8Zc0n-2ILgOV8-xEoCNE53ZpQ45aGYxBD3UAtbJ1Jm6B99Kx9c_eilUqr3dPE-Nvzt7et3D8dgpI9IMg3fT-yDyp5oTNjyhhdwmyrXo6wudvNy7XQriOyNx_nqiLmYU4/s320/blogger-image--661919910.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I satisfied my sweet tooth by bartering with Kristen and Dean of <a href="http://www.deanssweets.com/" target="_blank">Dean's Sweets</a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghO4ayEpaovQ8f1qaII0wh8eMwO3D7bxtyuCBvyhvQely6J83LEYfKAUPSGJSAcGG3K9-RY4489WlE8JmV6wKfJIZaQCG_ncuScn4x898GqNVmAp2ddd4hq2vJ1j9shq4Kw3Nz3_ki8jI/s1600/17543_454853805462_3878302_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghO4ayEpaovQ8f1qaII0wh8eMwO3D7bxtyuCBvyhvQely6J83LEYfKAUPSGJSAcGG3K9-RY4489WlE8JmV6wKfJIZaQCG_ncuScn4x898GqNVmAp2ddd4hq2vJ1j9shq4Kw3Nz3_ki8jI/s320/17543_454853805462_3878302_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lucy from <a href="http://www.lucysgranola.com/" target="_blank">Lucy's Granola</a> proposed a very tasty trade.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguycMLf1WC1lvTBiJl89utH1qdlx4DTSP8xhR9M8pBBVv_Tz3PE1KjpebUjXVfP4cmna26Vuf_9YuNHw7PxpqReTGiROMxENwHKOC9mT4othMEQyjjYZUEJ_ERbXyGzE7de4ypo7j_hYc/s1600/blogger-image--696166599.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguycMLf1WC1lvTBiJl89utH1qdlx4DTSP8xhR9M8pBBVv_Tz3PE1KjpebUjXVfP4cmna26Vuf_9YuNHw7PxpqReTGiROMxENwHKOC9mT4othMEQyjjYZUEJ_ERbXyGzE7de4ypo7j_hYc/s320/blogger-image--696166599.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This one wasn't a trade, but was totally worth it! Peanut butter chocolate chip from <a href="http://stonefoxfarmcreamery.com/" target="_blank">Stone Fox Farm Creamery</a>. The creamiest ice cream I have ever tasted.</td></tr>
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The biggest highlight of the day for me was when a couple of gentlemen purchased a pair of my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/61687379/novelty-rubber-chicken-earrings-fun-and" target="_blank">rubber chicken earrings</a> for none other than <b>Sally Struthers</b>! They are friends of hers and when they saw these earrings they instantly thought of her. Hope she loves them!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_zE72kWpz_7gsrzl1zd4quj8CvjC2LthKF52rdpfBQRv1vbyHgaBhMbqREll3KAWcZ0qMKTcTzaO9RtLplb3HjoUOdFF72KeqmtGQum9oz80uGgjXjQmsVqI2E3tEOJTC-ZFjri_rJHM/s1600/blogger-image-1224739743.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_zE72kWpz_7gsrzl1zd4quj8CvjC2LthKF52rdpfBQRv1vbyHgaBhMbqREll3KAWcZ0qMKTcTzaO9RtLplb3HjoUOdFF72KeqmtGQum9oz80uGgjXjQmsVqI2E3tEOJTC-ZFjri_rJHM/s320/blogger-image-1224739743.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNiUJuC1JUMl8Zc0n-2ILgOV8-xEoCNE53ZpQ45aGYxBD3UAtbJ1Jm6B99Kx9c_eilUqr3dPE-Nvzt7et3D8dgpI9IMg3fT-yDyp5oTNjyhhdwmyrXo6wudvNy7XQriOyNx_nqiLmYU4/s1600/blogger-image--661919910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTNiUJuC1JUMl8Zc0n-2ILgOV8-xEoCNE53ZpQ45aGYxBD3UAtbJ1Jm6B99Kx9c_eilUqr3dPE-Nvzt7et3D8dgpI9IMg3fT-yDyp5oTNjyhhdwmyrXo6wudvNy7XQriOyNx_nqiLmYU4/s1600/blogger-image--661919910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-74777568271104785762013-11-27T15:24:00.001-05:002013-11-29T10:02:37.551-05:00Shop Small with Gus & Ruby Letterpress - Portsmouth, NH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8htcYD7ztTXG_STfslw4th7ouBTyAGOfeH71hkUUbNOyaMf4_fQk2uMbVKeju3f3Yg8uyFgrMOZ5_3HqgiQHIIw30r8T0tIqNb8q0V-iX8PYtrffdqGb8VJHFPbWxYz9ak2FEXyT4nuE/s1600/Pet-Tags-Gus-Ruby.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8htcYD7ztTXG_STfslw4th7ouBTyAGOfeH71hkUUbNOyaMf4_fQk2uMbVKeju3f3Yg8uyFgrMOZ5_3HqgiQHIIw30r8T0tIqNb8q0V-iX8PYtrffdqGb8VJHFPbWxYz9ak2FEXyT4nuE/s320/Pet-Tags-Gus-Ruby.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">If you're shopping in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this holiday season, be sure to stop by my favorite store </span><a data-cke-saved-href="http://gusandruby.com" href="http://gusandruby.com/" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">Gus & Ruby Letterpress</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #505050; font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"> at 29 Congress Street. They have amazing gifts for anyone on your list who has excellent taste, but best of all they are fully stocked with a fresh batch of Lofted Designs </span><a data-cke-saved-href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns?section_id=6251693" href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns?section_id=6251693" style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;" target="_blank">pet tags</a> (see pic above)<span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Also, they're running some <a href="http://paperhounds.blogspot.com/2013/11/its-almost-time-for-black-friday-small.html" target="_blank">great promotions this weekend for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday</a>. Be sure to stop in for discounts, a goodie box giveaway, good holiday cheer, and coffee and treats for early shoppers. If you happen to be shopping for a pet-lover or a stocking stuffer for a furry friend, my pet tags are usually right by the register. :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Happy shopping and many thanks for supporting small businesses!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #505050; font-family: Arial;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;"><br /></span></span>Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-23693586169590457772013-11-25T19:45:00.001-05:002013-11-27T07:26:48.520-05:00Holiday Food and Gift Fair - Portland, Maine 11/30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynT7dHRBa4Fh7nEJyoxrXHNMSP9VNtvRSwgVse-husnmDiPHhle7nhjWq_ZwJK7bw-3V_W4SJAmRT34glNTDuk1Z-TUtzXXdy8K4-w7oY3TFIXQ97lxSeHX4Gi-qhc9jOj7veLBLbFGY/s1600/Maine+Food+&+Gift+Fair.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynT7dHRBa4Fh7nEJyoxrXHNMSP9VNtvRSwgVse-husnmDiPHhle7nhjWq_ZwJK7bw-3V_W4SJAmRT34glNTDuk1Z-TUtzXXdy8K4-w7oY3TFIXQ97lxSeHX4Gi-qhc9jOj7veLBLbFGY/s400/Maine+Food+&+Gift+Fair.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">When and Where:</span></b></div>
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<b>November 30th, 2013</b></div>
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<b>11am - 6pm</b></div>
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<b>FREE admission!</b></div>
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<b>58 Fore Street, Portland, ME</b><br />
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I'll be bringing along a new assortment of Lofted Designs necklaces and earrings (seaglass, beach stones, sterling silver, vintage buttons and more!), plus new bracelet designs, new ring designs, and a great assortment of pet tags. If you haven't seen me in person in awhile, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEffF0a-VStNIp1F1HDhRxNVj-3ENNhjrUmXY6g6DlGCWoQ41LzrGdkNp96ehrTMJe9Z_I4TEz0fcF7Oe0y3QGm2Os1EUUb3aJW887O08nxCrsTGxWf-9oVUnj_SWJUduCZRJyHKf6yRY/s1600/Collage-Square-Nov2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEffF0a-VStNIp1F1HDhRxNVj-3ENNhjrUmXY6g6DlGCWoQ41LzrGdkNp96ehrTMJe9Z_I4TEz0fcF7Oe0y3QGm2Os1EUUb3aJW887O08nxCrsTGxWf-9oVUnj_SWJUduCZRJyHKf6yRY/s400/Collage-Square-Nov2013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I actually plan to get most of my holiday shopping done at this show...it shouldn't be difficult. I'll be in great company with these incredible Maine-based <a href="http://bdnmainefoodandgift.com/vendor-information/current-vendors/" target="_blank">food and gift vendors</a> (this is just a small sampling of the booths I'm looking forward to checking out – there will be many more):<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.cascobaybutter.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWHdEJzCBhXyjEXCJ5QoMw1M_4lEAqLtpKQe1ioWZN3ie-WwWlN2kT5wuut9zaIjOH4hNgp8TOV7cpbMeXRsYnoQaiarvyIVV0m9oGn5A1Em4s1ZIFp0AwDdgUSr-k_MTXKcijdrkuM8/s1600/CBB4-300x231.png" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cascobaybutter.com/" target="_blank">Casco Bay Butter Co</a>. – All-natural artisan butters made from local dairy farm cream.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.cueculture.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX9HmD4Ucl2ypG_s7cAoX5UhqCmdj7sLTLlGARE-ybVZYEGq8WB_G_OCUoKwZq9Q685Hl0aBPuSfhRwqAmfUxpVkTHZ7idGGPt4T7iGpCGDhCYBj2DTSXXv2yCp9JTpM_f6XPyrsW2Jac/s320/Cue-Culture-BBQsauce.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cueculture.com/" target="_blank">'Cue Culture</a> – Small batched barbecue sauces</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.deanssweets.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJMN4IP9eyrZh-OoLAV2Pa7ggA9BPosXialnxFSbv8f9hSTCqz-f7-OoA8SFj06cX74WebDYlqp315DN3Lc139XaVM8OwCcreTFiTQpZNQVhzjgx2yRZE43nsEWwJnEhMK9t94SrrouzM/s320/Dean-Sweets.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.deanssweets.com/" target="_blank">Dean's Sweets</a> – Amazing hand-dipped truffles. Enough said.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.flowfold.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidN5eta5ADhbVyu_o8HrJg0wf_wkz2MU3Q7YeOYH99IPQfPy8X7vwDHbDI__P3tXEks18Deo6EwOLHz1eEFW2rLjoxRMdGkvy0xRLoTwFOGBHKJ8Kk7ndaxtjFp2lu0P-5JY4jyX_lEW8/s320/flowfolds_surfexpob.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flowfold.com/" target="_blank">Flowfold</a> – Durable wallets & bags handmade from sailcloth</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/JaredDeSimioMaker" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4OAs5AWtldeWi1siayP_VKfaCE4QSME0CukOP75FkLcS5x9ATwszKTG8JLvAHAvS3S6QHb9YMcQkgv7VoXQy6e3rMydnPtH9qruVr37Tt1oJeVky8ky1NW6vdFRMmM-5ypHP5kNzEiE/s320/JaredDisimio.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/JaredDeSimioMaker" target="_blank">Jared DiSimio Maker</a> – Bags & accessories made from vintage, antique and salvaged materials, each with a story to tell. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/venasfizzhouse" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8ZaIDn0toj4yE468ovjsSovrPr4n5lr6kURiEOYxaL9uUOTz8MzGQl8AKiz0r_Flq8Ji3jluyrGPKVufXnKYWtQItNYY6d8aUVLGXjcsTjntfEI7GQ9UGzsBZ6gh0gLNcp3QP4VUXls/s320/Venas-Fizz-House.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/venasfizzhouse" target="_blank">Vena's Fizz House</a> - Mixology Shop and Natural Soda Bar</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.morrisessex.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5O92xKHTg8YzsktlhQKN6gcq1WRBzeFv-QPvkVmYLaM85VW57YXWNw_hQdricRquonLY_UJHA5K755YgCs81ycYDs09UMD9iVr-ydirNxeBBcreiZ5im6_RqnKwTlHgpCR3zl1y-5AfY/s320/Morris-Essex.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.morrisessex.com/" target="_blank">Morris & Essex</a> – The most stunningly designed & silkscreened, letterpressed and block-printed goods I have ever laid eyes on. Shirts, cards, scarves, bags and more. I want everything Eliza makes. All of the things.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://getwool.com/maine-blanket/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis9RUUIcJ7zX9KY6c-ZgUNbq7OFGUbc2DKT2AmemS1fv5qqmvVifhM6wZF_Da-HfBeTd73R_7m_oJTCXuo0jOyZrNWlEAxFclSrdyldsYU_nfWulnNYVFfViPxIJUgiCpfPlkw9sPWTag/s320/MaineBlanket.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://getwool.com/maine-blanket/" target="_blank">Maine Blanket</a> – 100% grass-fed sheep's wool blankets, solar hand-dyed in seawater and woven on antique looms. How cool is that? </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://baobaborganics.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuyjtmAMMxRLJhOEJWEC27AKmeUXH2kyBWkJHyQKYSZjYD21j5VpWpARX2myUID7HntMMw9EwSVkL38fHjnbTzkFHYKIxXt5vSIy9rx4gU0gEXvb_OYyVTYkoX-oN7H40_oxAUFxrduCw/s320/Baobab-Organics.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://baobaborganics.com/" target="_blank">Baobab Organics</a> – Sustainable, organic cotton clothing for kids<br />
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</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.fiberandwater.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNBkEETRrBKKmrlaautXfLxov6eGnJBXy_DlClJWd1CfbWS21ZM4TMHXiM79kOph1WeJSKKWD2KxBdAPVoGddQ8yR7Onx6wItc1qGIdx9eUyEHnwVAqAAYRNV3-6gzZMibzjfQ6U0uUhI/s320/jersey_roots.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fiberandwater.com/" target="_blank">Fiber and Water</a> – Natural burlap wall art featuring hand-pressed designs.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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You can find m<span style="text-align: center;">ore info and RSVP on their </span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/158520227688289/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Facebook event page</a>. Hope to see you there!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjL6ItAdav8_kh0QQ4PAez3Btx_jIzcFiomI7UwuI-CC6hLWmRTde-_LGQ9qDa1IbcBzLxI4-3TIElQR5rV_1gGF8L1KZhNwX5uzQxdtocOQtbGd68-LNoGFvxuwQG6CAV1l3GGmUREgc/s1600/BDN-Maine-Holiday-Fair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjL6ItAdav8_kh0QQ4PAez3Btx_jIzcFiomI7UwuI-CC6hLWmRTde-_LGQ9qDa1IbcBzLxI4-3TIElQR5rV_1gGF8L1KZhNwX5uzQxdtocOQtbGd68-LNoGFvxuwQG6CAV1l3GGmUREgc/s320/BDN-Maine-Holiday-Fair.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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<br />Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-88252549263495436052013-11-23T14:27:00.002-05:002013-11-23T15:09:22.985-05:00Down East Magazine's Maine-Made Gift GuideExciting news from Lofted Designs headquarters!!! Our pet tags are being featured as part of <a href="http://www.downeast.com/" target="_blank">Down East Magazine's</a> 2013 Maine-Made Holiday Gift Guide!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZUUyQS1aL2fWCSGupRhYWUiOTpu3qFADtBg-YQ2yP3bmV4x8j-BZdRMtoRBatlhVFJXj7ac6mSuHAdNfnN4gdPtgUBFiFUkcb4L7RD4hlg7G4gwM8g_74gZ9Vm-gVdbRX1V_2uJ-yxQ/s1600/Downeast-Gift-Guide-LOFTED-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLZUUyQS1aL2fWCSGupRhYWUiOTpu3qFADtBg-YQ2yP3bmV4x8j-BZdRMtoRBatlhVFJXj7ac6mSuHAdNfnN4gdPtgUBFiFUkcb4L7RD4hlg7G4gwM8g_74gZ9Vm-gVdbRX1V_2uJ-yxQ/s320/Downeast-Gift-Guide-LOFTED-logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(I created this sweet little badge to commemorate the occasion!)</td></tr>
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Down East is known as the magazine of Maine, evoking and illuminating the spirit and culture of my great state and available at newsstands and stores nationwide.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EAy2rU4Qjztpdblpr-QR8FzLI-hrG3qOUFl94osB9sKxI90MMK-PSveD1tH2NTraRZDG2FlQZdNk01DRDrj2-yG6WDgd6WZ6JQn6CbiyEuoIhAGHV3jwF4F9aiCC89qhctOiRFchLsk/s1600/Down-East-Magazine-Dec13.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1EAy2rU4Qjztpdblpr-QR8FzLI-hrG3qOUFl94osB9sKxI90MMK-PSveD1tH2NTraRZDG2FlQZdNk01DRDrj2-yG6WDgd6WZ6JQn6CbiyEuoIhAGHV3jwF4F9aiCC89qhctOiRFchLsk/s400/Down-East-Magazine-Dec13.jpeg" width="322" /></a></div>
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The publication approached me in the early fall about the possibility of featuring Lofted Designs <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns?section_id=6251693" target="_blank">pet tags</a> and I mailed off five ID tags to their editorial team for review.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrl1jbwteAWXgmTH_Tjvt06Nd99e626O8Ed7cesrjWekboigFXMit0YPO8dnT87py-Bsi_igKgzagdM6nvocLhphcfSKDdBRxGmxCM7wARyo8fn7AFowIl_kzZxJI1PD0e33XJ6JQKSo/s1600/IMG_8057.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFrl1jbwteAWXgmTH_Tjvt06Nd99e626O8Ed7cesrjWekboigFXMit0YPO8dnT87py-Bsi_igKgzagdM6nvocLhphcfSKDdBRxGmxCM7wARyo8fn7AFowIl_kzZxJI1PD0e33XJ6JQKSo/s320/IMG_8057.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJPcgdMxxahrrS-z2GTDxQm6wTEVhbR2T8pDX5iFzycBAb3uNSbqR4rafI-pUwcYh3CG-DW24MEXJLLU1PR9kcH0wt9Om1-NI8XUBZkc5RZapnhEfls1xvI6MTN2pWZzjE2l6SpRdOT8/s1600/IMG_8062.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTJPcgdMxxahrrS-z2GTDxQm6wTEVhbR2T8pDX5iFzycBAb3uNSbqR4rafI-pUwcYh3CG-DW24MEXJLLU1PR9kcH0wt9Om1-NI8XUBZkc5RZapnhEfls1xvI6MTN2pWZzjE2l6SpRdOT8/s320/IMG_8062.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thanks to the USPS for helping me make the submission deadline!</td></tr>
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Ultimately, they selected three of the pet tags ("squirrel chaser," "i <span style="background-color: white; color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 16px;">❤ </span>maine," and "stinky breath") to feature on their Furry Friend gift page.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOG_MpscdX2LpY_uC6xkiE5aHcx05wpg-xtAhxrxYWMwoi5xoraht2lGh4480OVmZMkIj8HogB3E2zBdm5Y4e5281VrpBNmLq8W1htjmBtOZ3nKRDmiOl6lUW9KtsxG5NVjmZMgOmJkw/s1600/Down-East-LoftedDesigns.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEOG_MpscdX2LpY_uC6xkiE5aHcx05wpg-xtAhxrxYWMwoi5xoraht2lGh4480OVmZMkIj8HogB3E2zBdm5Y4e5281VrpBNmLq8W1htjmBtOZ3nKRDmiOl6lUW9KtsxG5NVjmZMgOmJkw/s400/Down-East-LoftedDesigns.jpeg" width="322" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's a lot going on in this collage of creativity, but Lofted Designs is #1 in the upper left corner!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCDiSesiqDuSGnQA8E18VdBL-bWU3MIx2xZVcn2uuB4IEEQTI0ndbBj_Kez2IJO8f4lSLx2_9Gn-ltBAcxu_khBG4OaGvCR21fSsTOhVRKgM2w_00sBoeGQYG2JSzNLeXoI4dBBeg440/s1600/Down-East-LoftedDesigns-Highlight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFCDiSesiqDuSGnQA8E18VdBL-bWU3MIx2xZVcn2uuB4IEEQTI0ndbBj_Kez2IJO8f4lSLx2_9Gn-ltBAcxu_khBG4OaGvCR21fSsTOhVRKgM2w_00sBoeGQYG2JSzNLeXoI4dBBeg440/s400/Down-East-LoftedDesigns-Highlight.jpg" width="311" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here's a snapshot with our tags highlighted to help you find them.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pE56YaLauYBwwxue2UA36csFKbxpyVgfnw7BtRgfoaJiCQKgjvuCYr_FxdNca21mjzOSuAa3SWotxI5Fx3njkFdWkziY3Gr6QSpwQo0vzmcS386BXETqpGwawz7CAnFGWSW-Yo8M1Ac/s1600/DownEast-Lofted-Closeup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pE56YaLauYBwwxue2UA36csFKbxpyVgfnw7BtRgfoaJiCQKgjvuCYr_FxdNca21mjzOSuAa3SWotxI5Fx3njkFdWkziY3Gr6QSpwQo0vzmcS386BXETqpGwawz7CAnFGWSW-Yo8M1Ac/s320/DownEast-Lofted-Closeup.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And a close-up!</td></tr>
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If you can't quite read the tags in print, luckily they were kind enough to also feature them online with a link to my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/lofteddesigns?section_id=6251693" target="_blank">Etsy shop</a>! Here's a link to all 133 of their Maine-made gift selections <a href="http://www.downeast.com/133gifts/" target="_blank">online</a>.<br />
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Down East has been in print for nearly 60 years! I am so honored and thrilled to be part of this time-honored publication with a readership of more than 400,000 people. Be sure to pick up a copy, available on newsstands this week!</div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6722950606597138381.post-50136751683426729202013-11-16T00:14:00.000-05:002013-11-16T00:20:25.416-05:00Custom Handmade Bridesmaid Gifts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vNtKozPrFud0DaADtdjwzv0b_F2yPkfnETewhMCKfc5Zb6R6dHm28su4SIVnZ8eQbX6q8YuUP-rt958tkE3gaTCBjU8uiumOodug0mO7BFHninik8G3AeKVIHQ-BJvuZtkVHTB0sNnw/s1600/Ali-Wedding-Day.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vNtKozPrFud0DaADtdjwzv0b_F2yPkfnETewhMCKfc5Zb6R6dHm28su4SIVnZ8eQbX6q8YuUP-rt958tkE3gaTCBjU8uiumOodug0mO7BFHninik8G3AeKVIHQ-BJvuZtkVHTB0sNnw/s400/Ali-Wedding-Day.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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I absolutely LOVE making <a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/search/label/wedding" target="_blank">custom jewelry</a> – especially when weddings are involved. Whether I am designing <a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/2013/09/custom-wedding-band-for-groom.html" target="_blank">wedding bands</a> or <a href="http://lofteddesigns.blogspot.com/2012/09/wedding-inspiration-alicia-william.html" target="_blank">handcrafted earrings</a>, it is a tremendous honor to be thought of for such a monumental occasion. So when my friend Ali was planning her wedding day and asked me if I'd make handmade gifts for her two lovely bridesmaids, I jumped at the chance!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOCEyQPBudofg7fj7-6yHdwktwh7Iw2fM9mSxBvEr39mvTB1q9t0ixpIrfTJe-C8EwW_kfPfo5rcQhkpZzoaQ6UpYy0vmMHzK6HGC-Z1iyTnF7MPym9oz8FbeNn8pN8uQA4w7hzMTIEQ/s1600/IMG_7768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZOCEyQPBudofg7fj7-6yHdwktwh7Iw2fM9mSxBvEr39mvTB1q9t0ixpIrfTJe-C8EwW_kfPfo5rcQhkpZzoaQ6UpYy0vmMHzK6HGC-Z1iyTnF7MPym9oz8FbeNn8pN8uQA4w7hzMTIEQ/s320/IMG_7768.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Works in progress – stamping, hammering and forming</td></tr>
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The bride already had an idea in mind, which is always helpful, and knew she wanted to give her BFFs sterling silver bracelets. We worked together to refine the design – an elegant hammered cuff, a little bit wide, but not too chunky. The bride came up with a personalized message to be stamped on the inside of each bracelet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcfCIs0inYpT-31PM93fK3xzbBCWXCBg9t_z9dV48Ulpthb6EICnpsj0bjQ1EETYlRalrk0OdxJ5WoM6kxlRBQIdt1MoEKdctOGHfcKOfVEXsd849imRsMiwE0b_n-__768KnIC_rnpwA/s1600/IMG_7784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcfCIs0inYpT-31PM93fK3xzbBCWXCBg9t_z9dV48Ulpthb6EICnpsj0bjQ1EETYlRalrk0OdxJ5WoM6kxlRBQIdt1MoEKdctOGHfcKOfVEXsd849imRsMiwE0b_n-__768KnIC_rnpwA/s320/IMG_7784.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A secret message inside – with love from the bride</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQsxdKFpl0bWbSerJGAQ921Ef_tggYPCx55aPnhTFGvR9xLpUs6hbimk80ZOxoqnADpoBkkNXb9NI61d1qvF-gmQAiH5p1A-hwBvaEB4gvhLR1I2r_0YxN2TdWpBmTplcfSt546vVj2U/s1600/IMG_7778.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQsxdKFpl0bWbSerJGAQ921Ef_tggYPCx55aPnhTFGvR9xLpUs6hbimk80ZOxoqnADpoBkkNXb9NI61d1qvF-gmQAiH5p1A-hwBvaEB4gvhLR1I2r_0YxN2TdWpBmTplcfSt546vVj2U/s320/IMG_7778.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished product</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvP8ZbLIGdSlVMK6cmRIFZPdE_M_M797DEWydgZ11yrqBZdYMqy1DRqpkTwEXMAyaVzLB4oun3Rpuj4xv9fTUzApENRYqbaqTtFLfMCso8KLVQ5zGV_Kovkur4FJbDAp7ApdfZpp2_2E/s1600/IMG_7783.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtvP8ZbLIGdSlVMK6cmRIFZPdE_M_M797DEWydgZ11yrqBZdYMqy1DRqpkTwEXMAyaVzLB4oun3Rpuj4xv9fTUzApENRYqbaqTtFLfMCso8KLVQ5zGV_Kovkur4FJbDAp7ApdfZpp2_2E/s320/IMG_7783.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two custom bracelets for the big day!</td></tr>
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The bridesmaids LOVED their gifts and even wore them during the wedding. I couldn't be more flattered to have been chosen to be part of this beautiful occasion.<br />
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If you have a special event coming up, why not give your loved ones personalized handmade jewelry as a gift? <a href="mailto:lofteddesigns@gmail.com" target="_blank">Contact me</a> to discuss your ideas anytime!</div>
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Lofted Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02171539114089781587noreply@blogger.com0