Melinda Mulcahy

7 weeks working holiday

2011-09-06T04:01:00.001-07:00

Wondering where I've been over the Summer? Finishing this house in Abruzzo, Italy...Phew!

From this...

Front of old little cottage

Back of old little cottage

To this... Front with new extension

Side view with extension

It was no holiday! But obviously worth it.

What will your future bring?

2011-07-16T02:12:00.001-07:00

Now you can send someone who needs a wonderfully uplifting gift of fortune with a Fine Silver Fortune Cookie! I offer various options, sold just as a cookie charm or on a keyring, bracelet, bangle, necklace options, along with finishing touches like a pearl or gemstone for further positive energy. This new design will bring someone luck, love, wealth, health or whatever you feel that person you love needs for their future with your personalised message..... Each cookie (not recommended for consumption) comes with a message, as shown above, printed on paper and is beautifully packaged in a gift box tied with ribbon.
These will be available on my website from September and is available now on NOTHS.

Doodles in Silver

2011-07-16T01:41:00.001-07:00

At least once a month we have Yum Cha (Chinese dim sim) at our favourite restaurant in Canton and always pack some drawing materials for the kids to doodle on the throwaway paper table cloth. The last time we went Laura drew this really lovely bird (top) so I ripped it off and decided to transform it into a Silver bookmark for her Grandfather, whom we call Poppi. I thought it would be nice to personalise it further with a message of love from his two beautiful grand-daughters. We presented it upon his long awaited arrived recently from Sydney, as they are spending the Summer with us to help in Italy, and he was really moved, and also curious (ever the Engineer) as to how I managed to make it. Mum wants all the grand-kids names in the shabby hearts instead.
Judging from my friends responses, they will be a real hit! I was so pleased with the result, I have decided to start selling them on my website when I return from my working holiday in the September so I can take orders in time for Christmas. I know from my own experience, the deluge of drawings the kids product during their precious early years, we can't keep them all, that there is always a special one that really captures your heart and you would love to keep, but then it gets lost or coffee split on it or ripped and scrunched and the treasured drawing is lost. This way, it can be encapsulated to be treasured forever as a lovely AND useful keepsake. You can of course also capture their first attempt to write their name or whatever you so wish, add a date, message, the possibilities are endless. I already have orders from friends who I always run new designs by, and they are now scouring their kids keepsake draws for their favourite art piece.
The bookmark weights approx 5-6 grams of solid .999 Fine Silver, measures approx 60mm x 15mm and will cost £69 and can also be made into a keyring +£12. You need to do, is find that special drawing, make a copy with thick black ink on white paper, scan it and email it to me at sales@melindamulcahy.com with your message and I will do the rest.

Customer's at their very best

2011-07-13T05:35:00.000-07:00

I was so surprised and heart-warmed to receive this note, I thought I would share this with my readers.
Thank you so much Caroline & John. This kind gesture has moved me deeply. And, got me thinking; Yup, "Kelly Rocks!" Love the Phonics!
I'm just waiting for Kelly Jones to knock my door and collect his plectrum.
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you so very much!

i LOVE this postcard

2011-07-01T07:05:00.001-07:00

A customer asked for this wording (above) and it really struck a cord! I am also getting loads of requests for co-ordinates (below) which I think might be Serbian??

Every cloud as they say

2011-06-24T03:34:00.000-07:00

Then this popped through just in the nick of time:

Hi Melinda
Thank you for such a prompt reply.
I will pop the keyring in the post and return to you. The rest of the product is lovely and the girls father was delighted with his present so this issue is just a hiccup.
Regards Allison Usher, Sedgefield

You see, for every negative, I get tonnes of the lovely understanding customers, like Allison who make it all worth while!

Small batch problem

2011-06-24T01:47:00.000-07:00

So I changed the first lot of keyrings bought from a very reputable source in the UK as the opening on 2 items out of a hundred or so didn't open far enough to insert a key. They were in fact some of the most expensive on the market but were causing me 2 out of 100 problems too many as I aim for 200% customer satisfaction.
I thought I had resolved this problem by finding another supplier, slightly different design, but still a lovely mechanism and no probs with fitting keys on. Although I know on occassion they might need male muscles to unscrew at first, but that's a good thing as you don't want to be losing your keys, right?
But as silver prices have sored I am actually losing money on each keyring I sell on NOTHS in order that I clear NOTHS commission, and I was going to pull them until after the catalogue when I would be able to increase the price. But I though was doing dis-service to my customers.
All's well until 2 days ago, when I find out after 3 customers complained they're plectrum or postcard had come off the jump ring. After investigation, it transpired that my supplier had provided the incorrect strength of jump ring and a small batch sent out were not holding. As you can imagine I'm completely mortified! I have offered to replace the ring immediately.
Then I get a really negative comment via the FEEFO system, even though I have offered to fix the ring for this customer. Needless to say, I was really down this morning, slitting wrist kind, when I saw this comment. Especially as she also said the plectrum was flimsy!
Has anyone seen a real plastic plectrum? Well the ones I make, might I add, in solid .999 Fine Silver, are much larger and thicker than the real life ones, so I really can't understand why someone would say it's flimsy!
Above: One of my unfinished fine silver plectrums next to a real life plastic plectrum. Does this look flimsy to you?

Have I also mentioned my creations are not brought in from China which was mass produced on a production line with robots so they are cloned. I dedicate over 1 hour of my time to hand craft each fine silver item for each individual customer, which is quiet a lot of time in this day and age.
So I thought I would cheer myself up and check out my nice comments. I was blown away! All cheered up now, I thought I would share some with you....

17 Jun 2011
We required the plectrum as a gift for our best man, at short notice Melinda very kindly rushed through our order and ensured we had it on the day. It arrived in perfect condition and beautifully gift wrapped. It was a beautiful gift, well made and beautifully presented. Excellent service!!!!!
19 Jun 2011

Perfect - arrived on time and very original for a graduation present. thank you
17 Jun 2011

i bought this as a gift for my fiancé who was THRILLED! It was so quick to arrive and was exquisitely wrapped up! Thank you!
15 Jun 2011
The plectrum was perfect, exactly what i was hoping for and fingers crossed will be a hit! Only criticism is that the leather necklace that i chose for it to come with is not very long and think it will be too tight for my partner to wear, despite being advertised as a gift for fathers day - I contacted the customer upon hearing the length was too short and have offered to replace length of necklace with 20inch, so customer very pleased!
13 Apr 2011

It's a gift for my husband to be, so he hasn't received it yet... But I love it!
28 Feb 2011
Everything worked out great with the order, and I had great personal communication with the seller. The only thing that may have been improved is the delivery - as it arrived after Valentine's Day - but that wasn't a huge inconvenience. Overall very pleased! - Customer advised late delivery was due to Royal Mail putting item in an obscure place which customer didn't find until after Valentines Day?

I am getting lots of people saying that it's not much silver for £50, but they obviously don't realise the global market prices for silver and gold has trebled in the last 3 years and I have been trying to absorb these increases. Compare my product the one below (not mine), which is essentially the same thing with a kiddies pic on it for £130 with cheaper keyring, I think you will agree mine is very good value for money!

Credits

2011-06-20T03:03:00.001-07:00

I've been celebrating the busiest period my business has ever seen, with the lead up to Father's Day orders, and after taking a well deserved break this weekend, I can see from my forward booked sales, that it isn't stopping just yet!
It's absolutely fantastic to finally see the fruits of my labours and I'm getting stopped all the time from parents on school run when I bounce the girls off in my MBT's, what I'm so happy about. Words escape me. Recalling only February last year I was so depressed about my sales that I was re-thinking why my sorry arse was making, when no-one was buying. And on only the second attempt, I got accepted on NOTHS then there was no looking back.
Of course it's been big a learning curve on there, trying to produce new concepts that stand out from all the rest and are what people want, not to mention getting organised throughout the year to get the most from events like Valentine's Day etc. So I thought I would take this opportunity to credit those who make it all happen:

Customers: Without you, I wouldn't have a business. So, high fiving it over to you.
Photography: Oh, that will be me!
Web updates on NOTHS, melindamulcahy.com, etsy, blog: Um, well that's me too!
Graphics: Me
Marketing: Me
Concept & product development: Oooh, me again.
Crafting of jewellery: That is of course only going to be me.
Crafting of Fine Silver Gifts: me, with help sanding late into the night during busy periods by my husband. Thanks Andrew x
Tooling advancement: Andrew.
Accounting: Andrew, cause I don't do money very well.
Soldering: Me!
Collating & Packaging orders: me too.
Walking orders to post office: me & the kids with bribbary by way of ice lollies!
Lovely Post Office Lady: Lynn. Your the best!
Post office queuing during busy periods with bulk dispatches: Dan, the man with the muscles and the van - Thanks Dan x
Purchasing: Me again.
Printing: Hadyn Prior, which reminds me I need to pay his invoice, oooppps! Oh, actually he hasn't invoiced me.... Must remind him.
Cleaner to keep me sane: Magda (please don't ever leave me!)
Customer Services & enquiries: Me
General dogs body duties like making coffee: Me
Website SEO: Blaine. Well done on the top of first page of Google for handmade jewellery.
Advertising: hahahahahaha, just kidding, I don't do any!
Patience and understanding during busy periods: My wonderful girls whom "I love all the way to the moon, past the stars and beyond!"
And lastly, weekly chats with my invaluable friends and hiphop classes keep my route to discovery a humorous and meaningful one!

Thank you all.

ramblings of truth

2011-06-10T06:37:00.000-07:00

I absolutely can not believe the price of Fine Silver Clay has just doubled in price, literally over night and for no real reason. Nothing short of a monopoly if you ask me! There are only two companies, both Japan based, that produce this product and I have seen artisans around the world enjoy the fruits of they're clever product, but that will all change.
For this reason, and the fact NOTHS have advised I am legally held to contract concerning prices, due to fair trade (which doesn't cover my little business's needs and financial requirements to get paid) until the catalogue expires in July, so I have to hold my prices.
I have already witnessed it's victims in business falling around me. Good suppliers, now gone. Perhaps this may also deter independent artisans from working with ArtClay and PMC for the love of it, as I once did. It has taken me 2 years of developing and honing my skills to get this product to the standards I can now boast.
And it's any wonder I am in this position, when offering free delivery (which believe it or not is not accounted for in my costings) customers choose to purchase within days, even minutes of each order, to the same address, taking full advantage of "free delivery" which is totally flat-lining any possible profit. But this is just a sign of our throw-away mentality that my business has been caught up with, the down side of being part of a multi-national community of businesses that aren't makers. For this reason, I have decided to withdraw free delivery on NOTHS, although it's still free on my website, in order that I can somehow combat these massive price hikes.
Oh and I was pushed into offering "express" delivery, for no financial gain to myself, and for orders that I can not make in anything less than 48 hours, so the only thing I got out of it was a stomach ulcer! People, I am not NEXT delivery!!
I am deeply concerned about my business's future. Will my business withstand yet another financial storm? Perhaps my darkest days are just around the corner.....
Just venting, you understand! It's been a tough couple of days!
Customers can help support small and struggling businesses like mine by purchasing directly via melindamulcahy.com.

2011-06-08T04:06:00.000-07:00

My "Daddy Rocks" personalised fine silver plectrum makes top 20 gifts for Father's Day on NOTHS!

Shabby Heart Competition

2011-05-27T06:29:00.001-07:00

Okay, I've just released these sweet'n shabby hearts on a lovely silver ball necklace, also sold as bangles, available on Not On The High Street now and very shortly (after Father's Day rush) via my website. I have been thinking about ideas for 3 or 4 letter words to stamp inside the hearts, and I thought I'd make it into a competition.
No profanities please!
I am offering a chance to win a ball chain necklace with your choice of 1 initial shabby heart + 1 stamped with your own "word" as shown here in the picture "love", styled with a lovely white pearl worth £47.50 including delivery.
Just email me your most original word suggestion, via sales@melindamulcahy.com, mark the subject as "Shabby Heart Competition" and add your email, name and full delivery address. I can only accept mainland UK entries (sorry). I am unable to change/exchange or offer a monetary equivalent!
Competition ends 12 noon (GMT) on Saturday 25th June 2011 & the winner will be emailed within 5 days of that date.
Jessica & Laura, my two daughters, will be the judges who may be easily persuaded with sweeties!
Oh, and one last thing, the winner's suggested word will also be photographed and added to my webstore for all to see, NOTHS and of course here on my blog, printed with your name and address.

Postcard with Love to my friend

2011-05-12T01:25:00.000-07:00

My dearest friend that I grew up with in Sydney tragically lost her Mother to a sudden stoke just before Easter. Chris was only 59, assistant head in a school where she has taught for over 35 years and looking at retirement.
The news was so surreal that at first I couldn't grasp it, but once it started to dawn on me as news came from friends and family far and wide, I realised how much it shook my core. Words can not convey how I feel nor what to say to my lifelong friend, as I couldn't just hop on a plane to be there to comfort her, when she needed it most.
So I thought of a poem and made it into a Postcard with Love, pictured above, finished with a keyring, instead of just sending a sympathy card. I wanted Leah to be reminded of her Mother's Love everyday, rather than mourn her loss.
Shortly afterwards it was Mother's Day in Australia and no doubt it would be a sad day, but instead of being glum, she stated everyday was Mother's Day with her Mum! How lucky she was to have been blessed with such a wonderful Mother.
So many fond memories spent with Chris as part of my teenage years, I smile sweetly to myself at those thoughts. She was a welcome part of our family events and we will all miss her. Softly spoken, Chris rarely raised her voice, like a sea breeze whipping over the rolling waves at Cronulla beach.
Chris is now with Leah's Father, resting as true loves.
My thoughts are with you, Leah, Steve, Cheyenne, Brock and the rest of your family.

Father's Day 2011

2011-05-09T04:03:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a ridiculously busy period leading up to Father's Day judging by the orders I am already receiving, more than a month and half before. Not to mention NOTHS featuring me twice in their next catalogue, due out shortly.
Unfortunately I have felt the aftershocks following the devastation in Japan earlier this year as my usual Silver Clay supplier has had problems obtaining it from their Japanese manufacturers which has set me back. So I have spent the last week sorting this little issue, but I'm back on track again and ready to rock. On that note, my heart goes out to all that were effected and you can donate with the Red Cross.
Plectrums, Golf ball Markers, Cufflinks & many other men's gift ideas available.
Make sure you order early!

My bucket list

2011-05-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

I've always wanted to learn to fly a helicopter.
Visit Africa with aid to help a small community
Tour around America & Canada in an old airstream, then when I'm finished, do Europe.
Learn to make my own tasty brown bread & fresh pasta from scratch (with the help of my wonderful new Italian neighbours, in Palmoli).
Visit Sri Lanka, the ice hotel in Sweden & Reykjavik, Iceland
Commission an eccentric posh hat
Train my own horse and participate in a hunt
Build a timber boat from scratch
Go back to Central Saint Martins and study shoe and bag making
Learn to make chocolate as good as Lindt
See a Blues Singer in New Orleans
Dance in Havana
Cruise the Nile
Experience the Orient Express 1st class from London to somewhere romantic and not yet visited in Europe
Write a book (of sorts)
Learn to snow ski properly (hopefully this Christmas)
Master the language of Italian, sooner rather than later
Put on a barn dance or masquerade ball
Go hot air ballooning
Race a sports car on an F1 track
See the Aurora Borealis
Sing with a backing band
Read more books
Stop worrying
Learn to say "no" without feeling guilty!

Finally, happiness is not just saying your happy, but truly feeling it within

Have you ever been labelled?

2011-04-15T03:30:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about introducing so many new designs in Fine Silver, one of which is this label or tag. But as I am the only employee in my wonderfully thriving business, it takes time actually getting anything to market these days.

Over the years I've been labelled in several ways, some good and some not so good, and when I caught up with an old friend from school, I thought about his label. I made this for him in a shabby chic style, which he absolutely loved when I surprised him and it was obvious from his reaction, it would be perfect to introduce to my NOT ON THE HIGH STREET shop when I get back from my working holiday this Easter. I will be making them available as just the charms, on keyrings, on leather necklaces and as lariet necklaces which I think look great, from RRP £49. Of course, customers can personalise it with their very own label imprint, whatever it may be. Personally, I think we're all priceless!

Combining age-old smithing with technology

2011-03-18T04:23:00.000-07:00

I've been using the fine silver clay product for years now which has transformed my business from virtually nothing to being asked by the Editors to take a full page of the NOTHS catalogue which is amazing, even if I can't yet afford it or cope with the volume of orders!?!
As you may have noticed that I don't stay idle with new creations and I am always working on techniques and pushing the boundaries of my work like the Stash bowls and aromatherapy candles. The next stage is combining age-old silver-smithing techniques with the technological advancement of PMC, so that I can make studs, cufflinks etc. There is only so much you can do with PMC which in itself is a fab product, but by combining the two, opens a whole new world of virtually no restrictions other than your imagine.
Here is a new creation, meant for my daughter who had her ears pierced earlier this year. They had to be very light weight, so I used fine silver roughly sculpted into hearts, torched instead of kiln to fire off the clay, and then soldering the back posts on. I have decided not to sand or polish them as I love the organic texture, almost like crumpled foil. I love evolving and creating, it's a part of who I am.

My cousin THE Photographer

2011-03-18T04:08:00.000-07:00

Here's my cousin Peter's work! I have been watching him grow as a photographer over the years to where he is now. More recently, as a fashion photographer for an Ozzie swimwear company called Tribe. This photo shoot was on the beautiful shoreline of Sydney, and brought back my childhood memories of living in such a beautiful place. Where Peter resides and where I am originally from. The pictures just blew me away. Check out his website. Watch out Mario Testino. And I love the swimmers too, hhhhmmmm HELLO! Might order some for my hubby, though he's not really into "rocket launchers" as he describes them, I certainly now am! lol

Silver Smithing

2011-03-07T04:04:00.000-08:00

Along with everything going on in my lift, I have also managed to squeeze in a weekly silver smithing class which I started last year, so have been practicing my soldering skills, which I need for making cufflinks. When I am a little more confident, I will consider a set of stud earrings to add to my collection. Small steps as they say!
But I have been eager to make rings for myself, and the first was just a simple round hammered one, nothing to blog about. Especially to incorporate one of my favourite stones, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise.
I decided on a flat oval and had the challenge of covering the holes where I would normally thread, set in a rather organic obtuse bezel setting so that the stone lays gently against my skin to harnise it's powers by absorbing negativity, transmuted into useful energy.

Photographing jewellery

2011-03-06T04:24:00.000-08:00

I have taught myself how to photograph my own jewellery ever since I began making it, especially after suffering two costly and disastrous experiences with so called "professional" photographers who, say they can photograph jewellery then charge the earth, squabble over the photo's I can actually use, and worst of all, most where out of focus! Through bitter experience, it's actually horrifying how many professional photographers can't actually photograph jewellery and if they can focus on the jewellery, they often can't style it.
There is soooo much to consider when photographing jewellery, lighting, backgrounds, keep away from reflective surfaces etc. After upgrading to an amazing G10, and improving my styling which is also extremely important when it comes to selling your work, my photographs have really improved, along with sales. Now, I never have to worry about copy-write, I take my own photos the minute I make something new and this self-taught skill has seen amazing results.
So much so, that I was asked by a friend, Anne Morgan, to photograph some of her work for a competition. Anne is not only a lovely lady, but a very talented and renowned silversmith, and now Chair of Wales' new Contemporary Jewellery Association, whilst still making time to also teach me silver smithing every week. As she flits between trade fairs, there is little time for organizing photography which she sends away for.
Here are some samples which I hope she deems good enough to grace her website and her very own Not On The High Street shopfront, where she also sells her work. I think these studs look great against a gray plank of driftwood I found along Newton beach!

Plectrum makes Top 10

2011-02-15T06:10:00.000-08:00

Ok so my plectrum didn't make Heat magazine's Valentines Day 2011 list but it did make the UK's Independent i Top 10 gifts for men, which is incredible news and is in amongst huge names like Tom Ford, Fortnum & Mason to name a few. I'm sure you can just imagine how totally thrilled I am. When I get a moment, I will be adding this feature to my website, but for now, here is the link should you care to see for yourself. Although, not so pleased they called it "moulded steel" what the........? Nor did they publish my name alongside NOTHS. Anyways, it's still great news.

Not On The High Street Editors Love my plectrum!

2011-02-07T02:20:00.001-08:00

With over 150,000 sellers on the web giant gift store Not On The High Street, my plectrum has made the front page under "We Love" and is also now featured in their top 30 favourite gifts.

Buddha

2011-01-13T06:02:00.000-08:00

A taste of what's to come this year with my beloved, handcarved natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise from the depleting mines in Arizona, all hail Buddha! Extremely limited stock, I think there are only 8 available, served with sweet heart and Chrysophrase charms on a long necklace, in your choice of gold vermeil or sterling silver. Be quick, they're only on my website for a short time....

French Macarons

2011-01-10T03:04:00.000-08:00

My plan over the Christmas/New Year break, apart from spending oodles of time playing with my gorgeous children and catching up on some long awaited house work, painting, patching and generally cleaning up the mess that tends to accumulate over a year, was to test my culinary skills and master French Macarons (french spelling for Macaroons).
I was first introduced to these little delights when I used to visit my brother who lived in Zurich, many years ago and have only now managed to find a recipe so I could try making them for myself, especially as it's an awfully long way to go for a little French sweet!
These little treasures have a reputation for being temperamental, and so I have been reading up on making them through various blogs by top chefs, many of which also found them to be rather difficult to make.
Unfortunately, however, I had been struck down with illness and didn't manage to leave the house for 2 weeks, so I wondered if my Macaroons might become a distant dream.
Finally, after the children went back to school and I was able to catch up with items pushed to the side and cleaning up my work room, it was time to revisit these mystical little treats, especially as we were dining with friends on Saturday night.
I got out all my notes and re-read them to make sure I knew what I was doing, even though I kept receiving a deluge of questions from my children who kept popping in to see if I had made them yet, every 3 minutes!
Four and a half hours later, and two different recipes, I emerged like I'd had a fight with a snowball covered in icing sugar and the kids faces and hair covered in chocolate ganache, triumphant, offering two types of Macarons; Almond and Pistachio filled with chocolate ganache. They looked so luscious, but tasted even better, that I decided as they quickly melted in my mouth, to take a photo before they disappeared completely.
Seeing as these were my first attempt and I am determined to get them perfect, I have decided not to post the recipe until I am completely satisfied and confident to share with you. But as soon as I do, I will post them here.
The pink ones (almond) were my first batch and the recipe wasn't as good as the second green ones which are pistachio filled with chocolate ganache and these (mostly) came out looking pretty good with little feet on them. I would have filled the pistachio meringues with white chocolate and pistachio ganache but ran out of time, instead I just used what was left from the pink ones.
And felt pretty chuffed with myself, head held high as I thrust my delicious cake plate filled with candy coloured french treats as I entered Cathie and Gareth's house for dinner.

Overseas orders

2010-12-02T03:54:00.000-08:00

I am soooooo pleased to see some lovely orders coming from over the waters, like France, Belgium, Sweden, Greece, Germany etc.
I wonder where the next overseas order will come from?
Brilliant!

Welcome Betsy!

2010-12-01T04:12:00.000-08:00

Isn't she just lovely? I have named her Betsy, which I know is not exactly French, but it was the first name that popped into my head, so I guess she named herself and told me through telepathy!
For over two years now I have been searching for my dream antique mannequin and have spent numerous hours on Ebay learning all about this kind of sort after and rare collectible to style new jewellery designs as necklaces always present a challenge to show properly.
Like all the items of luxury I covert, this was no acception as it had to be an original from the couture houses of Paris, and well worn, so that I know it had a wonderful life before entering my home, in fact, this one is over a hundreds years old, circa 1900.
And of course Stockman is the most famous of all mannequin brands but most importantly with a wasp waist and I can just imagine the whirl of seamstresses that pinned and fitted couture gowns on her, perhaps her favourite designer was called Betsy and the ghost has stayed with her??

I am now very much looking forward to working with Betsy in the future and no doubt you will be seeing her on my website shortly, for instance, with this gorgeous new gold vermeil "Love Buddha" necklace, only 5 made in Gold vermeil and 5 in Sterling Silver.
Check my website shortly if you like the necklace, but Betsy is definitely not for sale.
Now, where to put her??

The story of Daddy's Stash

2010-11-15T01:41:00.000-08:00

Modelling shoot with Rhiannon

2010-11-13T15:06:00.000-08:00

So I decided three days before I was due to restock the Celtic Manor hotel with my jewellery for the highly anticipated Ryder Cup, that I needed to shoot some fresh jewellery photos, preferably on a model in order to provide the backdrop for my jewellery in the glass cabinets whilst masking the unsightly holes & messy electric cables of the hotel wall behind! But with a budget of say, er zero, I had to call in some favours.
Late in the evenings of many house parties, I tend to get my camera out and pretend I'm a fashion photographer and practice photographing my friends in artistic styles. During our last (of many) New Years Eve parties, I snapped my dear friend Rhiannon, who had a few too many of my infamous Mojito's as she pretended to play my husband's guitar. She looked fab in a silver sequence one shoulder dress, that for the first time, I could see what "they" term as model material. Yes, she is tall, thin and long in all the right places, but there is more to modeling as we found out...
On several occasions I threatened to photograph her donning the jewellery for a model shoot and she showed signs of interest, but nothing concrete. So it was only a matter of time til I would play my wild card.
Three days before I was due to deliver my jewellery, the weather was shockingly miserable, setting the scene for a muddy golf tournament ahead, no doubt. But with news of a short break in the skies, I decided to cash in my wild card ask a huge favour. During our usual school run catch up, we discussed Rhiannon's availability and put her to the test. I advised her that I needed to catch the break in the weather due, er tomorrow! Was she really going to go through with the photo-shoot?
Like a true professional, Rhiannon arrived made-up and on time, whilst I was still wiring some last minute earrings, like any hardcore designer working over deadline. We grabbed the camera and some nic naks for props and headed down the footpath to a quiet green spot nearby.
As the Autumnal sun seemed to beat down along with nosy dog walkers, we got a couple of good shots, but it was clear Rhiannon was getting a little flustered. We took the decision to pack up and head back home and into the junglesque bamboo infested tropical greenery which is, my back garden. There, with the fence shielding any onlookers, I immediately saw a complete change, from a normal women into a model, as Rhiannon relaxed into the role and stepped up to the challenge. All of a sudden, we were snapping shot after quality shot of a model tantalizingly searching through the jungle in Borneo, and made the jewellery come to life. I had clocked over a thousand shots and was amazed at how each scene felt different, even though we were only moving slowly around the garden following the last light of sun as the kids were doing the same screaming and yelping at each other, scoring for our attention.
With a little bit of direction and ad-hock styling from yours truly along with that perfect Sienna light of late afternoon sun seeping through the foliage, Rhiannon really worked it and was, as Tyra Banks says all too often, FIERCE!
Thanx to Rhiannon, it was job well done. Phew!
The above photo is my favourite shot and numerous photos of Rhiannon can be seen around my website and on this blog...

Winter warmer candle

2010-11-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid growing up in Sydney, Christmas of course was in the middle of Summer which meant Mum would literally sweat buckets over turkey just to give us the "traditional" family roast Christmas turkey dinner. Being as hot as about 40+ degrees Celsius, you normally wouldn't decorate with candles in the middle of fire season, and every window in the house akimbo, there wasn't much need for ambient scents either. Not to mention, this was long before the candle boom of the eighties.

Here in the UK, the seasonal weather provides the perfect outside ambiance for that idealistic Christmas. So there is a natural calling to fill ones home with scents that conjure cwytchy settings and women, especially go all out for all things Christmasy to build the momentum of festivities, usually overdose their homes with sweet'n spicy sickly scents.

I have been thinking about a winter warmer candle for sometime, but the market is filled with these sweet sickly scents usually incorporating dessert style flavours of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla and the sheer thought fills my head with dread and throbbing migraines! By the time you've filled every corner of your lounge with those sweet'n spicy candles and scoffed the half dozen mince pies, you've over-indulged and overloaded your senses to last you the rest of the year. Luckily it's only once a year!

I mentioned my thoughts on blending a winter warmer candle to a good friend of mine, Cathie, who is one of my best testers, and her reaction was clearly in my favour, "oh please, not cinnamon or nutmeg!" she protested, nose firmly to the gods.

Now seeing as I always like to bring the flavours of my routes into my home, I have been wanting to include Sandalwood. Unfortunately due to cost, I had to substitute the best Australian Sandalwood for a cheaper African version and with that, I have put my snobby nose aside even though it's not entirely my first choice, particularly noticeable in the early spicy top note, but still, the lingering base notes very much musky Sandalwood. Now it's within a sensible price range of my other candles, about £14.95,

I am really into the subtle sweetness of Sicilian Bergamot right now which forms the basis of the scent blended with some patouli, lime, palmarose and finally the dulset tones of Sandalwood gives the blend that exotic velvety spice, I know it, but can't put my finger on it, whisper.

No sickly sweet dessert style aromas within cwoffing distance!

Available shortly on my website, after I take some more photos.

Space Invaders

2010-10-20T04:48:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was a kid my parents took us to Hawaii in the late 70's and we saw, for the first time, a Space Invaders video game in table top form. We all had a chance to play and the best part was that Dad could place his beer on the top! I can still hear the sound it made.

Sculptured by my very own hands using PMC .999 fine silver, I then soldered the cufflinks on the back at my evening silver-smithing class last night and polished them up this morning. All my class mates thought they were really cool so I thought I ought to make them available to you.

Every time I look at these Space Invader Cufflinks, they make me smile and are now available to purchase on my website and Not On the High Street. They would make a great men's gift for Christmas.

my digital artwork

2010-10-10T13:42:00.002-07:00

I've been teaching myself new tricks, in photoshop!

New 2010 A/W Jewellery Collection

2010-09-22T05:37:00.001-07:00

New Alphabet beans

2010-09-21T08:39:00.000-07:00

My new Alaphabet Beanies were made originally as I had some spare silver clay left over and made one for each of my daughters stamped with their initials for them to wear on holiday. Since then, I have had requests from their friends to have one made for their birthdays and so have become a bit of hit. I am now going to load them on Not On The High Street & my website to see what happens next so watch this space.
Each one is handmade using .999 fine silver and can be personalised with your choice of capital letter stamps, either one or two initials, choice of opalescent leather colours (Pink, Gold, White, Aqua, or black for the boys) and beautifully finished with a lovely high quality tulip hook clasp at the back with a complimenting crystal.
Perfect for young girls jewellery or boys.

2010-09-17T04:08:00.000-07:00

Great news & I'm brimming with excitement.......
Finally I have been given the thumbs up to restock the very prestigious Celtic Manor Resort just in time for the Ryder Cup 2010 tournament here in Wales which is due to start on 1st October. I have been stocking the Celtic Manor with my jewellery & working alongside their Retail Manager for the past 3 years and I am so thrilled to be one of only 4 jewellery designers representing Wales during this period, which is apparently the 2nd largest sports event in the world, 2nd only to the Football World Cup! Wow, this really is a hot ticket.
Accordingly to sources, the hotel is completely locked down and no-one without a pass is allowed in or out of the hotel. I will be one of the lucky ones to catch a first glimpse of what's going on over there when I will be delivering my handmade jewellery including the new Best Selling Morocco Collection which features the beautiful Gold Vermeil finish and where my Caviar Collection will be unveiled.
Not, of course, before I publish it here first.

Going to the Polo

2010-09-14T03:22:00.000-07:00

I love horses and I'm really getting back into them especially as my eldest child wanted a pony party for her 7th Birthday!
Ever since I moved over to the UK, some 17+ years ago, I have always wanted to see a Polo match and I thought of a great sponsorship concept of watching the polo in the marquee with a glass of champagne whilst enjoying the beautiful aromatics of my INVIGORATING aromatherapy candles.
I called the lovely chap who organises the Polo in Cardiff, Geoff Lloyd, with my sponsorship suggestion and he reminded me about a very valid point when having candles for a marquee event: Health & Safety.
Geoff initially stated that an open flame in a marquee/tent was too risky until I re-leaved his concerns after explaining the candles are presented in a glass container just for this reason. He agreed scented candles would be an interesting and memorable touch to the event so Melinda Mulcahy candles are now sponsoring the St David's Polo in Coopers field this Sunday.
I then proceeded to book some tickets for myself and my special guest/customer/friend Cathie to join me as I knew she had a new/first pair of Louboutins practically jumping out of their un-opened box at a sheer sniff of a social event. Only one problem, our heels would be ruined with the grass!! Hhmmmm. Wedges? Difficult to buy out of session in sandal form...
As always I love to share new finding with my readers and after a little bit of searching, I found this amazing heel stopper (click pic for link) which I have ordered for the day with some spares for future grass events when, no doubt, I will be making the Polo a regular highlight in my calender. Set! Brilliant! Just hoping for good weather.....
If you wish to join Cardiff's not so shiny glitterati, for Polo tickets go to St David's Polo and don't forget to mention you it from me. Kerching.... Cheers!

NEW Personalised Wedding Ring Bowl

2010-07-14T11:31:00.000-07:00

There are so many accessories to buy and etiquette details to consider when organising a wedding. So what is the significance of the Ring Bearer and what accessories are required to fulfil the role?

The wedding party is often chosen by the Bride and Groom to show their respect to the ones who mean the most in their lives and make them feel apart of the wedding. Often these duties are filled by friends and/or family and in more formal weddings the Bridal Party is often much larger incorporating extras such as the flower girl or Ring Bearer, both adorable additions to any wedding party as they are often children aged between 3-6. Whilst there is no set number of Bridesmaids or Groomsmen, there is only ONE Ring Bearer.

Since the wedding rings in Western cultures symbolise the eternal love and commitment of the Bride and Groom given within the marriage ceremony, the symbolic wedding ring is usually made of precious metals and plays a significant role in the ceremony itself in terms of blessing and bonding the marriage. The giving of the rings is traditionally highlighted by the Ring Bearer as the rings are tied to a decorative cushion or pillow and is held out in front of the chosen participant to emphasize this significance of the rings as an offering.

The wedding ring bearer dates back from the Roman and Egyptian old traditions when a crude cloth was used to carry silver and gold stones as gifts for the Bride and Groom but become more established in Christian cultures in the early Victorian era with the emergence of middle class wealth to display their riches. Today, a pillow carries the wedding rings, however in recent years, the rings are often replaced by fake rings, and the real rings are entrusted with the Best Man. Even if the ring bearer may just be for display, it is still regarded as an important duty within the day's events.

The ring bearing pillow or cushion is often embellished and embroidered with a personalised message like the date of the wedding, a special saying like “To Have and To Hold”, or even a poem. Varying styles are also available, for instance a colour is often chosen to match the Bridesmaids, the style may reflect the theme of the wedding or season in which the wedding takes place, whilst the Ring Bearer, usually a boy, is dressed to match the Groomsmen in a formal suit or tuxedo.

The latest trend, when the couple don’t have someone to fit the human role of the ring bearer is to incorporate their pet, usually dogs or cats fitted with a harness or strap with which to tie the cushion to the back of the neck for all the wedding guests to see the rings as the animal trots down the aisle. Though not everyone's cup of tea.

The Ring Bearing cushion or pillow, in my opinion is now a little outdated and therefore open to more contemporary concepts. I have introduced a contemporary representation of the cushion which is designed as a delicate souvenir to be cherished as a reminder of a special occasion, including an Anniversary.

With the amazing new product PMC, I created my own interpretation of a ring bearing accessory. This wedding ring bowl in fine silver can be personalised and even imprinted/stamped to reflect the wedding. The wedding ring bowl has 2 holes to thread a ribbon which in turn secures the wedding rings for the event and can also be made into a small loop style handle for the ring bearer to carry down the aisle. The wedding ring bowl is also a very practical wedding keepsake which can later be used on the bedside table of the Groom to not only embrace an item of importance such as wedding ring if he so chooses to take it off, but also remind him of the date of the wedding, so the Groom/Husband has no excuse to forget to celebrate the Anniversary of each special year they share together..

As the wedding ring bowl is handmade with precious metal in a more contemporary style, like the ring bearing cushion, it too can be personalised in line with today's current trends to incorporate sentimental words like the nuptials, a poem or whatever message the Bride/Groom chooses. The personalised wedding ring bowl may even be given by the Mother-of-the-Bride or M-O-T-Groom as an extra gift to show their respect and blessing of the union. It may even been given as an Anniversary present!

A personalised wedding ring bowl hand-sculpted in .999 fine silver is a really lovely memento of two hearts joining to be treasured forever whilst adding a fresh and sophisticated polish befitting more discerning weddings.

Available to order on my handmade jewellery website, ensuring to email details of your special message and can be made with or without holes. Please allow up to 21 days for this item to be handmade.

NEW Morocco

2010-06-25T05:38:00.000-07:00

My NEW Morocco Collection of stunning Gemstone handmade jewellery on a choice of Sterling Silver or Gold Vermeil finishes, NOW available to purchase direct from my website and via NotOnTheHighStreet.com.

With Thanks

2010-06-22T02:32:00.000-07:00

'Many thank you's for the beautiful jewellery that arrived to-day. I recognised the stones on your websites as a new arrival that has been added to your on-going collection. Well, my love, you've again shown your talent and design skills, by combining the gold earring and two tones of Topaz Gemstone composition in such a sophisticated way. They suit beautifully and I now have the right companion piece to wear with my aquamarine ring.
With Love from your Aunty Kay'

Made it into Christmas Catalogue

2010-06-18T03:54:00.000-07:00

My 'Daddies Stash' fine silver bowl made it into the NOTHS Christmas Catalogue for selected for Men's gift ideas! I'm soooo thrilled.
It reads, 'If you pinch these coins there will be nothing left for Sunday ice cream.
Bringing it now.

NEW Personalised Men's Gift Ideas

2010-06-17T03:29:00.000-07:00

Personalised Golf Ball Marker, Playing Card Token and Plectrum all available on NotOnTheHighStreet.com or directly on my online boutique of handmade gifts, jewellery and candles.
If you would like me to add your own personalise message, please feel free to email me sales@melindamulcahy.com.

Photography of candles

2010-06-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

All works shown on my website, this blog or Not On The High Street has been exclusively designed and handmade by Melinda Mulcahy and is therefore Copyright Melinda Mulcay UK. All photography is by Melinda Mulcahy and pictures are copyright Melinda Mulcahy UK

My shop front

2010-06-09T05:59:00.001-07:00

There are loads of NEW designs and scent blends available on Not On The High Street, and still loads more to come, click the pic above to enter the site. Alternatively all of Melinda Mulcahy's NEW handmade jewellery and aromatherapy candles will shortly be available on my own website www.handmadedesignerjewellery.biz
Exciting times!!

Editors Pick

2010-05-21T04:54:00.000-07:00

It's official! My divine aromatherapy candles were hand picked by the Not On The High Street Editors as today's What's NEW recommendation as shown below (click pic to go to site)

Not On The High Street

2010-05-21T04:45:00.000-07:00

So yeh, now on I'm not on the high street! Well actually I am not on the high street. And not on the high street is a good thing, because I don't want to be on the high street, so everyone wears the same old same old.

So now you can ONLY buy my work on notonthehighstreet.com where you will find there is nothing from the high street! Get it!

Oh, except for my not so high street website which is dedicated to all my handmade designer jewellery creations available to purchase online.

Mxx

2010-05-21T04:32:00.000-07:00

There is absolutely no better feeling that starting your event with a knock-out accessory that offers that feel-good confidence factor and one that you know will raise comments. I believe I have achieved that with this NEW Morocco collection, my first collect predominately stars gold vermeil.
Coming very soon to my dedicated website of handmade designer jewellery and currently only available to purchase NOW on notonthehighstreet.com.
All jewellery is limited in edition, so be quick to snap up this lushious collection before it disappears.

2010-05-04T02:01:00.000-07:00

There are people who don't have many dreams and continue through life following the same path their forefathers paved.

Then there are those who dream up ideas and revel in them, boasting 'Yep, I've got dreams!' But then pack their dreams in a little box, revisiting them once in a while, making certain those dreams are still there. They may be great dreams, but they never even get out of the box.

It takes an uncommon amount of guts to put your dreams on the line, to hold them up and say, 'How good or how bad am I?' This is where courage comes in. I recall my old boss used to always say that I had courage. I have always tried to bring my dreams alive and have struggled in so many ways with my business. But, I believe there is a change coming and it's all good. No actually, it's great. After years of hard work, dedication and positive thought, after so many knocks, I have always risen above the challenges and I know my time is just around the corner, I can smell it. I intend on grabbing it by the horns and riding the wild wave to a prosperous future.

I am currently working on my NEW very exciting range of handmade jewellery which will shortly be available on Not On The High Street.com

My heavenly scented aromatherapy candles will also be available there too, also available via my own website handmadedesignerjewellery.biz

Great News

2010-04-25T01:48:00.001-07:00

My handmade jewellery & aromatherapy candles have just been accepted on the very well known, and might I add prestigious

I am so thrilled that I could just burst and very eager to get working on setting up shop. Watch this space for the launch.....

Fighting depression

2010-03-22T09:20:00.000-07:00

Famous researcher Paolo Rovestsi showed that inhaling essential oils of rose and lavender reduced feelings of depression and anxiety. Imagine combining that research with a brisk 30 minute run or walk outside to try and combat depression without prescription drugs!

Go to my handmade candles website to get your anti-depressants in a candle

Greg's Recipe

2010-03-18T06:56:00.000-07:00

Summery foods are feel great foods, usually light and without the carbs.

My latest and best recipe for the moment (I can't get enough of it) is something my cousin Greg invented and I got to taste whilst I was out in Sydney last November and is like nothing I have ever tasted before. I am dedicating this to my Uncle Ted with love (was the last time I saw him):

Fry Rice Noodles (the super thin clear/white ones) in light olive or Sesame oil
Finely chopped red chillies (if you like it hot)
Large dash of Fish Sauce and Soy Sauce (not too much of either though)
Fresh White Crab Meat, I know it's very time consuming and messy but well worth the preparation time (if you can't be bothered, John West out of the tin will do the trick)
Serve with a hefty squeeze of fresh Lime Juice all over
Garnish with chopped Spring Onions & fried red chillies in olive oil. Voila!

New ARBONNE Skincare

2010-03-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

Most people I meet comment on my skin, and those who know me, also know that I have always afforded high end luxury products alternating between Sisley, Creme De La Mer, Elemis and La Prairie to help fight the aging process.

They also appreciate how passionate I am about the products I recommend and that if I don't think they are anything other than AMAZING, I would not use them myself let alone recommend them! The best news in my life recently is that I have been using and thoroughly recommend.......

After using Arbonne, I can honestly see a noticeable difference to the appearance of my skin, my husband loves the Men's products, and best of all, my Dior wallet is far better off too! I am so convinced about changing products, that I have decided to become a Consultant, in my spare time of course!

Arbonne is not exactly a new product, as it's a 30 year old U.S grown business, but it's fairly new to the UK, it's only been available here for the least 2 years. But it's certainly packing a punch in the industry and word is spreading like wildfire. It won't be long before you will see it everywhere, if Vogue's Beauty Editor keeps boasting about it in her blog.

Their products are derived from natural plant properties produced with the most advanced scientific technology under stringent Swiss laws to produce amazing products, similar to the aforementioned luxury names but at more affordable prices. Sound familiar? It should, it's what I've been saying for years.

Now, in line with my own ethos of getting back to nature, I am introducing the Swiss formulated Arbonne range very soon and these incredible finds will available on my website http://www.handmadedesignerjewellery.biz alongside my own little gems.

Before you hop out to your local beauty shop to get your mits on Arbonne, it's only available through Consultants like myself, so you would be best to contact me directly.

Harmonising tips for mind body spirit

2010-03-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

When someone leaves the earth to explore other great tapestries of the universe, it reminds me, life is so short. Whatever you care about, do it. Sometimes we are afraid to live our dreams until something makes us realise that, this is our moment. Please don't be afraid to open your heart to others, you have nothing to lose.
I am often asked how I remain so positive and full of energy. A friend recently told me she can barely cop with the horrendous winter blues she is having, so it was my turn to prop her up and I thought I should share with my reader too. If you're feeling fed up, sad, drained, tired, here are my simple tips you can easily incorporate into your life to harmonise your mind, body and spirit.

Get ready to blow your blues away, put the bounce back in your step and enjoy looking ahead to your wonderous future.

1). Nature's healing - talk a long walk by the sea or around a park all by yourself and listen to the breeze as you positively take in the beauty of nature. Concentrate on breathing in the fresh air.
2). Take time to pamper yourself especially when you are feeling low. Use natural products with essential oils for natural therapy like a great soak in the bath with a sea salt scrub and burn that aromatherapy candle you bought from me, don't just leave it on your mantle to gather dust!

3). Do yoga. It's a proven combination of physical exercise, breathing techniques and meditation to promote a healthy flow of energy in the physical body and calm mind.
4). Eat chocolate without feeling guilty. My Nana used to say "Take your time with chololate, it's a delicacy, with little tiny bites and really savor every moment."
5). Keep a diary of your feelings and allow yourself to feel each one without pushing them away. Whenever possible, don't let it fester, you'll feel better if you talk it through with a friend.
6). If possible, go to the sun. For an instant feel good fling, book a week to somewhere tropical. Otherwise, try "wish you were here" moments and scower the internet for pictures of tropical places for an instant lift or book a beauty treatment with your therapist.
7). Laugh - stop being so serious
8). Be grateful - feel fortunate for even the simplist things and cherish that moment. Book a coffee break with your favourite friend in your favourite cafe and natter, natter, natter.
9). Listen to music
10). Cook yourself a special meal that's light and summery.

French Lavender Fresh

2010-03-10T05:51:00.000-08:00

All lathered up and ready to rub!

Handmade soap by a very traditional cold pressed method.

Fresh as morning dew in the spring.

Hitting 60

2010-03-01T05:42:00.000-08:00

Upon completing the lengthy experiment of burning my aromatherapy candles from start to finish (in order to calculate the burn times) I have now successfully completed all trials of my NEW wax recipe with staggering results and surpassing my own expectations. It's a hard life when I have to burn my candles every night, but someone has to do it!

The result: They burn for an unbelievable 60 hours!

With such pure and amazing ingredients, now they are even more cost effective than the ones before. A great deal at £13.50!

I don't do offers, because I believe you should only pay for exactly what it is. You've already got the best offer! Value for money, every time. Another great reason why my customers always return for more.

Denise Owen, Massage Therapist recently told me she had "the best night's sleep with the RELAX candle". She is now stocking the candles along with The Celtic Knot, Welsh shop in Cowbridge.

John Griffiths in Camden, London emailed to thank me for "brightening his winter blues" with an Invigorate candle.

I have now decided to add ALL mybeautiful scented candles onto my new website,
available to purchase at:

www.handmadedesignerjewellery.biz

I'd love to hear your comments, so please feel free to leave your message.

I've cracked it again!

2010-02-23T03:45:00.000-08:00

Every day I think of new scents and improving my aromatherapy candles. In fact, it's been a scientific process that I have been working on improving for the last 2 years, believe it or not!

There are so many factors to consider when producing candles, especially essential oils candles, and not very much information can be acquired, so it's a process of research, testing and elimination. For instance, the wax burns a hole straight through the middle leaving a wall of wax that lines the glass which is wasted. The pool of molten wax is too hot hereby decreasing the burn time. Wax is too soft, wax has imperfections in the top (still working on that one), not enough scent throw (no worries here) and the list goes on and on.
In addition, I have decided to go down the healthy route (only covered by about 1-2% of the candle market), not just for my children's lungs and lounge walls but for the environment where the materials are sourced. For the ultimate scent throw (to fill a room) it's a process of finding the right blend of wax, as more often than not, cheap scented candle you get from Marks & Sparks and the like hardly fill a two man lift let alone a normal size room. The choice of wax also determines the optimal appearance of the candle (the velvet creamy organic kind) plus, to back up my healthy commitment, the materials must also meet organic requirements. For this reason I have NOT chosen palm oil based on the devastating effect logging is having to the eco-system in Indonesia. And who doesn't love Orangutans? Where most candles will advise they use "vegetable wax" almost certainly palm oil is used! My candles are made with only 2 ingredients, Soy and secret other wax that I have decided not to disclose (as it took a great deal of research to work it out) + a cotton wick.

Another factor, now that all the above has been refined and burning optimised, one must have ideas on unique scent blends and ultimately, based on the power of essential oils, have a concept for therapeutic benefits which requires knowledge of essential oils (my bedtime reading). You may not even be aware, that over 98-99% of candles on the market are made using "fragrance" and even when they boast "aromatherapy candles" they are actually only adding a tiny proportion of essential oil mixed with other oils and chemicals to produce the required scent, similar to parfume. I am curious as to how they can even advertise aromatherapy candles? Even Jo Malone uses the word "fragrance" and doesn't even advise what kind of wax used which suggests they use paraffin, i.e toxins (yuck)! Natural Magic candles use essential oils yet they advertise "vegetable" wax in their ingredients, so one must question the possibility of palm materials being used?

Now that I am confident enough to boast my pure aromatherapy candles have been perfected, along side my research and developments, I have been working on some new scents. So far I have produced:
1. RELAX with lavender, rose geranium & rosewood - cosy lounge, fire crackling and maybe the odd glass of vino.
2. INVIGORATE with ylang ylang, lemongrass & ginger - allow yourself to be swept away to exotic shores conjured in your mind!
3. REFRESH with rosemary, lavender & lime - the perfect detox without the rubber hose (you know where that goes).
4. ROMANCE with a secret blend starring Moroccan Rose - for starry eyed romcom gazing, chocolate nibbling moments.

I now have two more scent blends which I must say are gorgeous and include some other little essential oil touches I have decided to keep close to my chest:
5. PAMPER with angelica, chamomile and some other little secret wonders! The ultimate luxurious pampering experience.
6. REVITALISE predominately with eucalyptus, lime, bergamot - to catapult you back on track to being your usual amazing self!

Within 15-20 minutes the pool of wax has increased to almost full potential enabling greater scent throw to fill a room.

My candles work as powerful holistic treatments so each breath of essential oil unleashed into the air, with proven theraputic qualities, will help improve your mind, body, spirit!

Now that my beautiful candles are progressing nicely I can turn my efforts towards producing lovely handmade smellies including soap, salt rubs and bath bombs. Based on the first batch I made, friends almost snapped my hands off when they heard I was making soaps, which prompted me to develop this further. My aim is to create products predominately made with olive oil (due to a future project in Italy) beautifully scented with essential oils. So keep watch for these a little later in the year, when I'll be explaining why I am going down this route, if you haven't already guessed!

My NEW Summer 2010 Cruise Collection

2010-02-16T06:16:00.001-08:00

When I found out about the death of designer Lee McQueen, it really hit home. So many things running through my head, apart from the obvious family morning, there is now a gaping hole he has left in British fashion. What a tragedy! What a waste of a genius!
This brought me back to my own feelings of despair, of lose and knowing something was wrong but unable to put a finger on it. I have certainly endured dark days, which later transpired as postnatal depression.
In a waking moment like this, I threw my head back, took a great big breath and gazed blissfully in ore of the most welcome beautiful blue sky and smile to myself at how truly blessed am I!
I have two gorgeous girls who amaze me every day, a husband that still loves me for who I am (even after 18 years together), family and friends here and abroad who have supported me and whom I adore, they know they are always in my thoughts. Finally and more selfishly, to be allowed to tap into my natural ability to create and so follow my imagination, wherever it may lead.
My juices are always flowing in my creations including handmade jewellery, aromatherapy candles, painting, soap making, poetry, cooking, and more recently architectural design (more of this one a little later) which really floats my boat, even more so now that I feel alive, rejuvenated, confident and free! I am so thankful for these little reminders of how precious life really is.
The weather is my biggest influence of all and effects me daily. But this season I have been surprised and inspired by the most sensational winter I have ever experienced here in the UK. With such positive feelings to bask in and so much to look forward to this year, including starting our project in Italy, comes my NEW Summer 2010 Cruise Collection....
Only available on my recently launched limited editions online gallery
HandmadeDesignerJewellery.biz
where (I hope) my effervescent spirits translate through each piece.

My Inspirational Friend

2010-02-08T03:29:00.001-08:00

I was searching to commission an artist to capture my two girls on the beach, when I stumbled across Jean G Dayton's work online nearly 2 years ago now and I am so thrilled that we have become great friends, shared our findings and given each other inspiration.

As we have never met in person, we put a date in the diary to spend the weekend exploring London's many galleries, but unfortunately something cropped up and it was cancelled. Seeing as Jean has me so intrigued, I posted her some questions to enable me to delve deeper into what makes Jean tick. What I didn't expect from Jean's personal side, were similarities in so many areas, it was like reading my own thoughts! I find her a rare jewel of extraordinary talent, that shares generously and is someone who truely inspires me.

www.jeangdayton.com

Jean specialises in high energy contemporary art, which I love to collect, but that's just the beginning. Here is what she told me...

MMD - Explain your fashion style?
JGD - I would like to think my style is bohemian, I like to wear bright colours, (especially turquoise), teamed up with bangles, bracelets and lariats and statement bags.

MMD - What is your favourite style of art?
JGD - Has to be abstract as you can see so much more in an abstract painting, you can get lost in it.

MMD - Pivotal moment in your career to move full time into painting?
JGD - About 3 years ago I was juggling my art career together with a soul-destroying office job and I woke up one morning and thought that I couldn’t go on like this; on the one hand I was doing something I love with my art and on the other hand I was doing this boring office job that paid the bills and it suddenly hit me that here was this massive contrast in my life pulling me in two directions, no wonder I wasn’t feeling very well a lot of the time – so I decided to dive into the unknown and Go for It, I gave up my office job and what a relief that was, it has served its purpose and it was time for me to spread my wings…and I’m so glad I did, it was the best decision I ever made and I’ve never looked back.

MMD -What message does your art communicate?
JGD - I would say essentially the energy of freedom, as that is how art and being creative makes me feel, my art comes from me and no one else and it’s MY creative expression of MY freedom I feel, so I hope that people pick up on this in some way and find it liberating to look at and enjoy.

MMD - What personal touches would you suggest for your home?
JGD - I like splashes of colour, this maybe in the form of Art, flowers, cushions, an ornament, just splashes of colour that suit the feeling of the room.

MMD - Your most prized possession?
JGD - I don’t really attach myself to things as such, I like a lot of things but to me its all about the people in my life. So I guess my most prized (can’t really call it possession) are my kids, even though they are 20 and 23! I love them dearly and always will and they are my friends as well as my babies. My 2nd most prized possession would be my imagination, my goodness, what would I do without that, being a creative!

MMD - Most difficult hurdle to overcome in business?
JGD - About keeping the belief in yourself going, keeping your goals in sight and never letting your dreams go, I strongly believe that if you believe in yourself then others will believe in you and your work, it’s all about energy!

MMD - How do you do all the electronic stuff and still have time to paint?
JGD - I need the balance just like everyone else and if I was to paint day in day out it would become a chore – to be creative and in the flow I have to go by my intuition for when its right to paint so there are times when I don’t paint, so this is when I really enjoy concentrating on promoting myself online, ie. My website, blog etc, to me this is still a form of being creative as I’m still using my ideas. Basically I never do anything that I don’t really really enjoy doing, if it starts getting stale then I think it’s time to move onto something else – got to go with the flow.

MMD - What, in your opinion. quantifies good taste?
JGD - Things that are made well using top quality materials and that are pleasing to the eye.

MMD - What motivates you to be so positive when you work all alone?
JGD - Music, I love to listen to music when painting, sometimes clubby music, sometimes spiritual and zen-like music, whatever the mood takes me and I feel inspired to listen to – sometimes even the radio, I find this very grounding, produces some very different work! Also having a goal in my mind of the finished painting, this really motivates me and keeps me super positive.

MMD - What can we expect from you in the coming year? Like limited edition prints? Hint hint!
JGD - In the coming year I am hoping to have my Abstract art represented by a top gallery somewhere in the country, preferably in London. I am also developing my Art Shaman workshops and parties for children, which I’m really excited about, this has been a dream for a while now and it’s something I feel will develop and grow over the years.

Personally, I'd love to see Jean produce more amazing yatchs with splashes of colour like this one shown below (her best so far) offering a late evening or early morning effect. You can certainly feel her energy captured in every piece she paints. Get closer to my inspirational artisan friend, see all her latest works, watch her rise to fame and even read what questions Jean asked me, on her blog at jeangdayton.blogspot.com or just click this picture.....

I'm so excited

2010-02-01T07:05:00.000-08:00

I'm about the unravel what I've been working on for the last month or so.....

My special ONE-OFF and LIMITED EDITION creations will be available to purchase soon, in a new gallery format.

Tik tok, tik tok, tik tok

Keep your eyes pealed, cuz it really won't be long at all.

only one way up

2010-02-01T06:58:00.000-08:00

Tumbling down

down she falls

steeply into regret

Festering anger

drowning

dwelling

have the lies stopped yet?

Instability growing

thrashing

echos

the emotional abyss

The more she ignores

inner most feelings

burning

and obsessed

The muddy path

becomes more slippery

hurting

deeper as she falls

still unable to accept

the misery

could all be stopped

by talking down the walls

Find me on Folksy

2010-01-21T06:02:00.000-08:00

I recently joined FOLKSY, which is the UK's early version of Etsy for makers like myself to sell their wears. I will be only offering a limited amount of my jewellery.
Of course you can find most my work on my website which is updated regularly, but FOLKSY is just another way of selling, albeit a little more expensive to sell as I pay a commission!

Constructive Lives

2010-01-11T05:45:00.000-08:00

A tree drenched with fruit and leaves
Dancing, engaging, vivid lime green
Scars and knicks mark it's bark
From birds that visit and feed

It's strength offers nurture
As seasons perpetually roll
Branches outstretched to perch
Throughout Winter's stark cold

Encouraging new growth
As obscurity fades behind
Flowers eternally emerging
Awaits magnificent spring time

Birds pilfer it's fine twigs for nesting
Providing shelter and warmth
Snatches fruit when ripe and falling
All, just to hear sweet song at dawn

Mx

Merry Christmas from Melinda

2009-12-17T03:57:00.000-08:00

Fairy on the Christmas tree by Laura Jade Milky-pops:

"Hello Angel, you're a Cracker!

oh, oh, oh, and I know:
Hello Angel, you're a Star!"

Limited Edition Jewellery

2009-12-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

New designs flow so naturally and regularly that it's virtually impossible for me to keep up in terms of marketing and sales and is an area that I really should boast about, and even (God forbid) capitalise on! Like the above necklace, influenced by a Bvlgari perfume advert, I have chosen each gorgeous extra large AA Grade Madagascan Rose Quartz nuggets complimented by brushed Sterling Silver ovals and an ornate toggle clasp with drop Pink Amethyst faceted teardrop, made with matching bracelet, this set is one of many "one-off" designs that will never be reproduced.
To give an example, last week alone I produced over 20 new designs that were all "one-off's" and in a world of mass production, this is almost unheard of on the high street, unless of course it's Graff or Van Cleef & Arpels!
It's a rare treat indeed these days to own an original one-off piece of anything and is something I do all the time, but more often than not, my customers don't even realise they have aquired one. Customers have been badgering me for years now to make this perk more accessible as it's my greatest selling point and has only been available for private viewings.
Like an Artist paints only one original painting, I view my one-off pieces as "original" pieces of precious art and should be sold that way, so customers appreciate what they are purchasing. For this reason, I will shortly introduce a "Limited Edition" page on my website that only shows one-off pieces or very small numbered editions and once they are sold, they can and will never be reproduced.
So do make sure to pop onto my website regularly to view what's on offer in this new and exciting online gallery only available at melindamulcahy.com

New Jewellery Design Now Available Online

2009-12-13T10:59:00.000-08:00

I've finally got my arse into gear and added my new "Best Selling" Shangri-La Collection now available on my website under "New Season". Although once again, unable to keep up with myself, I produced this NEW Shangri-La in Sterling Silver (Bracelet shown above), but I was only able to load the gold and silver online for the moment.
You can now also subscribe to my monthly newsletters if you want to keep updated of New Releases, sales etc.
Go to melindamulcahy.com

I got one

2009-12-07T05:27:00.000-08:00

It's my birthday, and I'll boast if I want to!
Guess what I got? A Bracher Emden.
My hints really worked this time. Yeay

Shocked & horrified

2009-12-02T09:16:00.001-08:00

My..... world..... is..... falling...... apart... I just found out that the dynamic duo of London that is Bracher Emden have split! Yes I know, it's a little late. But was rambling the marvellous new bag hall in Howells of Cardiff and stumbled across one, on sale!

I was introduced to these incredable bags by Jo-Emma Lavin and have been drawling ever since. Slurp, slurp. Next on my list of must have luxury purchases, the detail can only be described as unbelievably intricate and sparkly. At least now they are a reasonable price, you don't have to be Rhianna or Beyonce to afford one..... if you can find one that is.
My advice for this year's best buy, if you've got a spare £300-£400, invest in one of these babies, because if my prediction proves right, these are great investments. But then, I would suggest swinging it rather than hiding it in the deep dark depths of your wardrobe. Trust me, these are real spotlight wonders.

From Wales with Love

2009-12-01T09:39:00.000-08:00

Arms that span an ocean

Resilience knows no bounds

A forest filled with love

Her strength endures all odds

Unforgotten raucous chatter

Seamless foreign matter

Compassion ever admired

Radiating like molten lava

A smile that brightens the greyest sky

Unaltered sacred honesty cries

Embracing beauty seeps this blossom

Droplets of friendship chiseled by time

Solid but gentle night star shine

You know who you are. Mxx

Handmade Contemporary Jewellery

2009-11-27T02:24:00.000-08:00

I produce quality handmade contemporary jewellery and most importantly, precious! Fusing Sterling Silver with gemstones, pearls, Swarovski and Venetian, although I am extending my work to include Vermeil (24ct gold coated Sterling Silver) in my new Shangri-La collection which is listed in a previous post and is selling like mulled wine on an icy cold day.

Handmade in my South Wales studio with over 7 years experience
Contemporary and up to the minute, fashionable jewellery designs that will last forever
On Precious materials which should be treasured

Each piece of contemporary jewellery I produce is limited in quantity, ensuring you will not see your twin at any event! Like an artist only produces an "original" painting, I call my jewellery limited editions and once you've had an original, you will realise there is no substitute.
For instance, I only handmade 2 of these Milan "Celebration" necklaces £145 & Earrings £69 RRP in black although I have been requested to produce another colour which will be available very soon!

I forage and gather the world over in search of the best materials I can lay my hands on to produce quality handmade contemporary jewellery, creating each piece with passion by my very own hand using the best finishing techniques.

Remember, all of my handmade contemporary jewellery is beautifully presented in my complimentary branded gift packaging and delivery is FREE for orders over £50.

And if you have friends who love handmade contemporary jewellery and want to see more, please contact me to book your private viewing.

So, if you are looking for unique and reasonably priced handmade contemporary jewellery please contact me now to avoid disappointment during the busy Christmas period.

My Best Friend's Wedding

2009-10-26T23:47:00.000-07:00

Wondering where I've been? I was Bridesmaid last weekend for my best friend's wedding on a beautiful sunny day at my home town beach in Cronulla, Sydney, Australia.

I was overjoyed to make all the jewellery for the bridal party, although I probably didn't give my friend, Leah, a choice!

The Scene: An outdoor park wedding with a stunning water view as the backdrop and luckily the gods shone brightly on Leah & Steve that day.

The Task: To compliment a rather technical colour scheme mixing light gold, cafe latte and tea-rose.

The Specification: Sparkling, subtle in colour, statement but not too extravegant! Not too modern, but not too traditional.

My Suggestion: Gemstones of course! Designed in clusters for muted opulance.

The Bride and I headed into Sydney's city centre to forage through the garden of colours, leaving with a handful of delicate faceted teardrops in a mix of three different golden coloured Quartz Crystal i.e Citrine, Cognac & Routilated (gold thread). I handwired each gem on fine Sterling Silver to form "Goddess" style long earrings (below) perfectly complimenting the Brides' soft golden glow. I truly hope Leah will take pleasure in many more wonderful memories with these heavenly gems in the future...

The three Bridesmaids sported subtle pink earrings (top picture) made with tendrils of gorgeous natural Tourmaline faceted teardrops wired to form a cluster drop from a large brushed sterling silver marquise link. Each pair has approx 33cts of "A" grade gemstones.

The Flower Girl, Cheyenne, wore earrings of pretty pink heart shaped Venetian Glass designed to be interchangable on sweet 10mm hoops and Mother-of-the-Bride, Chris received a surprise "speckled" necklace of tourmalines on a medium length/weight Sterling Silver chain to blend with the Bridal Party.

My very talented Mother made the gorgeous flowers.

Congrats to Leah, who pulled off a very technical colour scheme with great success and received many compliments as the most stylish Bridal Party ever. Phew!

New Stockist

2009-10-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

I am delighted to announce a new stockist in London, Chiswick W4 1RP called GEZ London, address is 51 Turnham Green Terrace.

They will be stocking my new Shangri-La collection along with some newly introduced hoop earrings and my best sellers including Stars, Hearts & V07's

With so much grey engrained in this Winter's fashion, I decided to spice it up with this Red, White & Blue V07 BRITANNIA Bracelet £65

The biggest fashion trend that all the celebraties sport.....

Hoop Earrings with clusters (above) £48

Amethyst Hoops £45

NEW Christmas 2009 Collection

2009-09-26T04:59:00.000-07:00

Introducing the Shangri-La Collection Winter 09.

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That is why it is called the present".

Inspired by the five Chinese elements combined with the serene feeling of choosing to live for the moment, almost like finding Shangri-La; A magical paradise in Chinese mythology. This design would make the ultimate gift for someone special this Christmas as it transforms from casual to evening attire with ease and can be worn individually or as a set.
Delicately wired with fine Vermeil oriental style beads, wired into clusters on fine Sterling Silver Chain (Vermeil beads are 24ct Gold Plated on solid Sterling Silver).
Currently available as long or short earrings, lariat, short or long necklace.

Holidays

2009-09-07T03:53:00.000-07:00

I have been really fortunate this summer to have had the opportunity to travel for 4 weeks in our caravan with my two little cherubs, eager to escape the monsoonal Welsh summer we were swimming in.

Having booked three different caravan parks in the East of England & Cotswolds, I enjoyed a real sense of freedom, feeling like a gypsy, having no idea what each destination would offer and visiting places I would never normally have chosen. We learnt some history about East Sussex, like our visit to Battle and this beautiful town alone has renewed my interest to see more of England. We visited so many places, climbed many castle turrets, took a stream train, walked for miles, popped into some lovely art galleries, sampling many cream teas along our way (we love scones) and even managed a dip in the ocean at Rye, which was a real treat as I am a fair weather kinda gal.

Whilst I prefer to keep my family off this blog, I couldn't resist sharing this one which sums up the weather and tickled the passers-by as we danced on Brighton Pier.

Seeds of creation

2009-07-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

I thought I should unveil my past influences that have shaped me into the creative lass I am today...

Throughout the years I have turned my hand (or at least tried) at anything that challenges and interests me such as brickwork, landscape gardening, silk and acrylic painting, cake decorating, sewing, furniture making etc, and in more recent years, writing poetry. Yet, here’s the real irony; if you asked me to draw a picture, expect to see an unrecognisable stick figure depicting something child-like and unsophisticated. Perhaps it's my lack of concentration. However, through some mysterious work of nature, imagination and my hands, I have connected!

I actually don't feel like it's art I produce, but just love producing things with my hands and being creative which is a far cry from selling advertising. In fact, this gift comes from a long line of creatives in my family which I have only recently tapped into. So I am dedicating this post to my family in Australia who inspired me to follow a wondrous path of self-discovery.
First and foremost, without a doubt my Mum showed me how to use my hands and imagination, whether it be through cooking, painting, sewing, sculpting, floristry and so much more but also instilled a keen eye for detail and quality of craftsmanship which is one of my driving forces. Whatever she turned her hand to, Mum did with dedication and love, but certainly not for monetary gain (very much like myself). She has and continues to produce some beautiful work.

Whilst my father may have been into avionics as a fulltime job, he could also turn his hand to most things around the house (fortunately like my husband) and built some great features like a swimming pool for starters. Not many people know, however, that his vast knowledge of the English language stretched to writing poetry and I am looking forward to the day when he may share his writings.

Many of my Aunties produce amazing treats of all kinds like my Aunty Kay, a fine artist and teacher who has exhibited in some illustrious museums in Australia and is someone I have always admired. Most of my Aunties are clever little knitters and/or sewers, one is an amazing Opera Singer, another is an incredible seamstress. In fact, all of my family are amazing in some way or another and all have one thing in common. They are fabulous cooks and well, actually, they also know how to have fun (for those who know me, this should all sound familiar).

It's any wonder why I produce so much and continue to evolve. With such incredible talents influencing my development, it would be a crime not too!

Thank you to my family for being so very clever. Mxx

Birthstones

2009-07-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

Customers sometimes choose their jewellery based on Birthstones, and often there is conflicting information about which stone is associated with which month. I then wondered where it all started and so decided to research the subject and came up with the following information which has been collated from various associations including The Coloured Gemstone Association:

Most gem scholars agree that the tradition of birthstones arose from the Breastplate of Aaron: a ceremonial religious garment set with twelve gemstones that represented the twelve tribes of Israel and also corresponded with the twelve signs of the zodiac and the twelve months of the year.

Because ancient people did not always classify gemstones by mineral species like we do, there is some debate about which gemstones were set in the breastplate and why. Because of this, different cultures around the world have developed different birth stone lists. The modern day list that you know is only the most recent list: some older lists still exist. Some also argue that the proper way to assign gemstones is according to astrological sign and not month.

Either way, I believe all gemstones have mystical powers that capture the energy of it's owner/wearer, and it's much more fun to choose gemstones that speak to you from all possibilities, or just because you can!

January - Garnet (Dark Red)
February - Amethyst (Purple)
March - Aquamarine (light Aqua)
April - Diamond (Clear)
May -Emerald (Green)
June - Moonstone (Milky White with iridescent flecks)
July - Ruby (Red)
August - Peridot (Lime Green)
September - Sapphire (Royal Blue)
October - Opal or Tourmaline (Multicoloured)
November - Citrine or Topaz (Golden)
December - Turquoise, Blue Topaz or Tanzanite (blue)

It's also worth noting that most the Gemstones on the list don't just come in one colour. For instance Sapphire also comes in Yellow, Pink, Green, White as well as many shades of Blue which is why I added the colour next to the gemstone. Perhaps the forthcoming posts will be about gemstones themselves, which is a rather huge subject indeed.....

One of my favourite Artists:

2009-07-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

"Lines of Communication; they get broken & mended, but they still work if love is true"
Angela Smyth...I love, love, love her work

Nature walk

2009-07-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

Beyond billowing meadows
Etching memories clean
Beneath the rickety bridge
Flows a trickling stream
Unlocking inner peace
Whistles faint song of dreams

Subtle scents intoxicate
Sienna hues of dusk illuminate
Bless these trees of salvation
This perfect emerald of mine
Reeling in glorious nature
Each weightless breathe at a time

Mx

New Organic Soap

2009-07-14T04:34:00.000-07:00

Now I know what you're all thinking, "how does she get the time?" I'm certainly anything but organised, but I am efficient. You should see my studio, it's like a bomb has hit it, there's shards of silver and paperwork everywhere. Which reminds me, I must clean it up.

Anyway... So it's the end of the school year and I was racking my brain about what to give the teachers as a little "Thank You" token gesture from my kids. Bearing in mind there are 7 teachers between the two classes + the invaluable receptionist, the gifts needed to be reasonably inexpensive. Also as it's predominately from the girls, it needed to be something they could help with, without causing me too much stress. So I investigated soap making and Voilà!
Made with love (plus some kiddy giggles and cuddles) using essential oils (of course) with a completely organic soap recipe, which gives a nice foamy lather, topped with some dried flower elements (great for exfoliating or just leaving bits in the bath). Before I could get them on this blog, my first batch (some 50 bars) had already sold out and at £1.85 for deliciously fragrant organic soap, it's any wonder!

Available in 3 different scents:
Rose Geranium
Lavender
Lemongrass & Lime

Email me to place your orders on sales@melindamulcahy.com

Gold Rush

2009-07-13T01:35:00.001-07:00

I have been procrastinating and researching the introduction of a gold line for some time, especially as certain customers prefer and request it, but price, quality and availability, has always been a concern, until now..... Finally, I am taking a huge leap into finishing my jewellery in Yellow Gold, but not as you would know it.
There is a wonderfully exciting product on the market called Vermeil which is actually solid Sterling Silver coated with 24ct Yellow Gold and I have been trying to source a quality supplier for about a year now as this product is hard to come by and has not been sold at the usual jewellery industry trade fairs.

I recently found a great supplier that beautifully handcrafts each Sterling Silver component, then, using a special technique (which meets FTC Standards of 100 millionths of an inch) of layering fine 24ct Yellow Gold over the Silver making this product the finest and most durable I have seen on the market to date. The price difference is only a 10% (approx) increase of the basic precious metal cost + whatever gemstones, pearls etc I use, so it's a reasonably affordable increase to swallow.

As my jewellery is precious I decided to go down this route not only to set my jewellery apart from the many designers out there now who make similar jewellery, but because it's become very in vogue again (after over 15 years of silver taking the lime light). The use of plated gold base metals mixed with gemstones and other quality materials, would be sacrilege in my opinion! On the other hand, of course, solid gold, even 9ct would be too expensive for me to sell and it is really difficult to obtain the variety of beads and findings I require to make my jewellery. Vermeil flawlessly bridges the gap between the latest fashion trend of Yellow Gold without compromising on quality (which is something I never compromise) and without the massive price hike. Bonus!

Over the next season I will be introducing some designs in Vermeil, so keep a watchful eye here, if you prefer a gold finish.

Moroccan Rose

2009-07-10T03:08:00.000-07:00

T'is the wedding season! British Summertime in total bloom and at it's best this year....
Several brides this season have requested I conjure a new candle scent to absolutely drench their wedding celebrations and fill their memories of new beginings shared.

What better way to celebrate a magical day when 2 souls become 1 with the world's most romantic scent of a Rose. And not just any rose would do. The sublime Moroccan rose was my ultimate choice and is one of the most traditionally used scents in the "old school" perfumuries of France, when simulation "frangrance oils" were yet to be invented.

This exquisite bouquet is captured with my secret blend and is so special and expensive, I am savouring it for customers who really appreciate it's pure indulgent magic. Which is why it can only be ordered via email:
sales@melindamulcahy.com

A Perfect Day

2009-07-06T04:07:00.000-07:00

Here is Justine, one of many Brides who commission me for something special. I created the India Bracelet just for her wedding day, although I believe she flashed it on her honeymoon as well.
This design is available on my website in other colours, including grey and black.

Photography care of Josephine Carter of Exquisit Days, Specialist Wedding Co-ordinator.

For Rhiannon..........

2009-06-17T06:21:00.000-07:00

Little ritual

Beep beep, it's 6.30am
Here we go again
He's working out the gym
Would kill for a lie in!
Long gone without sleep
Last night barely a peep
Never mind
Oops, is that the time?
Awaken under steamy shower
Little voices growing louder
Mummy, Mummmmeeeeeee
Greetings with a loving kiss
Drop the wet towel
Add a puff of powder
One leg hops into jeans
Wonder if they're clean?
Coffee on switch
Stretch from table to fridge
Toast pops out
Baby shouts
Another morning rush
Milky teeth brushed
Must wake up earlier
Forget earrings and mascara
Quick glimpse at the mirror
No end to my black-eyed horror
Replaced youthful vanity
with mind-numbing insanity
Hairs a blink'in mess
No time for my breakfast
Dressed for the days weather
Swamped in rain armour
Fight the usual traffic hell
Damn, we missed the school bell?
A brief chat with the ladies
Arrange kids over for play days
Then back to the house
Where workloads mount
Steal myself a moment
Today's chore list opens
Ahhhh, coffee at long last
Oh how these days pass so fast

Defining my destiny

2009-05-29T00:13:00.000-07:00

Following only 2 glasses of wine and a re-run of Desperate Housewives, I lay in bed last night trying to calculate my own existential existance and came up with this formula:

Sum = Envisage people actually saying:
"She is a designer" &
"She makes beautiful jewellery"

So actually, whilst I think about what people think about me and my work, this diverts my attention away from negativity and focuses towards believing they view me in the most positive light that I have created. We are, after all, inexplicably connected!

Existentialism.

Simple, yet effective!

Am i falling behind?

2009-05-28T03:02:00.000-07:00

Age thirty something, I am starting to feel like I'm being left behind within the electronic ether.
I have been checking out loads of different blogs today (in between having to entertain kids during school holidays) and I can't seem to work out the need for all these bloomin networks?
So Flickr is an online database for photos and negates the potential for a huge hardrive - I get that, it's very useful and allows me to make my portfolios more interesting with a slideshow effect.
And Facebook hooked me up with some old friends from school which was great given that I moved to the other side of the earth. But do I really need another account for my jewellery?
Then I'm obviously here blogg'en on blogspot, which I thoroughly enjoy (but sometimes need to step away)
But Twitter? Hmmm, do I really need to spend more time on the keyboard?
Believe it or not, I do actually have a life where real people live and grow outside of this matrix! And I need to keep an element of anonymity.
But if I don't do it, am I missing business opportunities?

Credit - Oh how I love The

2009-05-20T02:48:00.000-07:00

This month, I decided to list what's making me smile like a cheshire cat!

1). First on the scene for the biggest ever Jon Ian Sale, bought in total 3 pairs of boots, 2 pairs of wedges (inc Lulu Guiness), 1 pair mushroom suede/snake peep-toes (perfect wedding material) + 1 pair of black leather summer comfies, 1 pair of bright red sparkly leather pumps (shopping shoes) + 1 never-ending black suede bag on the cc (credit card).

2). Spruced up summer wardrobe with M&S colourful basics on cc (again) + Miss Sixty Jeans from Littlewoods, hhhhmmmmm

3). Second hand caravan bought on a whim and a hangover, inc motor mover and all kitted out with summer melamine dinner wear. Every trip is now an adventure - perfect inspiration for some paintings

4). BarryM eye powder in 3 new bright-alicious colours & a trip to my favourite hair dresser

5). Cling-ons no longer requiring I wipe their little bots & i'm lovin their ages right now.

6). Lost weight and feeling great

7). Booked trip back to Oz to see family, be bridesmaid at best friend's wedding, and catch up with old schoolies for reunion

8). Agreed gal-pals long weekend on the razz in Spain

9). Had secret something done

10). The warmth of the Sun - PRICELESS :)

The universe...

2009-05-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed that I have little quotations from various philosophers, mostly "Buddha" dotted around this blog. As a Sagittarius, we are known to be vivacious and frivolous, which works great at parties. But as an artist working alone, being on an emotional rollercoaster has fuelled my artistic juices and has moulded me into a deep thinker (no drugs involved). Otherwise, it could just be that time of life (of the crisis kind)! For instance, I have started to write poems?!?

I have always been a spiritual soul allowing me the wonderful ability to give back to the universe, unconditionally. More recently, however, I have drawn inspiration from Jean who posts enlightenment videos which I use regularly to keep me focused and positive and I thoroughly recommend them to anyone "searching" for more.

Check out the "Wellness Experience" on YouTube for spiritual well being, go to the bottom of this blogsite to view a video of "Colour" or go for a walk in a park or by the sea and take in nature and all it's glories.

Anyway, Jean, Thank you. I really am not worthy!!!

Technology, who needs it?

2009-05-15T02:29:00.001-07:00

Whilst I have received a little bit of help from fellow blogger, artist and now friend Jean Dayton, who is way ahead of me in terms of technology (she is on everything from YouTube to Flickr) just so every one knows, I'm proud to say that I built this blog all by my lonesome. I only hope viewers are enjoying my blog as much as I am enjoying making it?

Hopefully you will be seeing the use of multimedia, now that I have finally come to grips with flickr, I can now make the pictures into videos (whaaaoooooo). I have so many pictures of jewellery now, I (well my husband) has had to set up a mega-gazzillion hard drive (whatever that means). And I am astonished at the amount of jewellery artists on flickr. It's certainly become a great resource and in fact, if you want to see some beautiful pictures, you really don't have to look far.

I am also amazed at what one can achieve without paying for it! For instance, I recently made a video short using some pictures of a weekend break and added it to YouTube. Of course, it's certainly not worth viewing, as I was only playing, but I can see it's potential (not my potential as a moviemaker you understand). And as my computer died for almost a week, not so long ago, I didn't know what to do with myself. How else would I keep up with what my friends are doing on facebook? I realise now, I can't live without it.

Technology, I so need it!

My Creations

2009-05-14T03:47:00.001-07:00

When designing and making jewellery, I have always considered the valued opinions of both stockists and private customers. Unfortunately, we have become fast consumers opting for quick and cheap fashion fixes rather than considering quality, originality and purity of materials.

Have we forgotten about quality and what it stands for? The question is, can we really put a price on limited precious materials, integral design and quality workmanship? Does a piece of plastic provide the same feel good factor as a real precious stone? I do know that those who appreciate “luxury” products can tell the difference, and it's not just snobbery!

Perhaps it’s down to education before things will change. Of course knowledge is power, which is why I right these notes. Without compromising my genuine beliefs, I have set out the creative processes of crafting my little treasures…

And, imagine if you will that, without designers like myself, who would the mass-producing companies copy from?

Perhaps one might consider these notes before buying throw-away jewellery in future…

Concepts – Since tuning into my creative talent, designs have constantly flooded my mind, often causing sleepless nights and a handbag filled with scribbles on whatever writing material I could find, often napkins or the back of sales receipts. I am now far more organised and carry a note book!

The source of all my ideas remain locked in my mind until I find the right key (material), which I then turn into a piece of jewellery. I never make a piece I would not wear myself; the jewellery must be feminine, tasteful, stylish, colourful, original and wearable so that each creation enhances the wearer.

Time – The thought process focused on each concept is priceless as it’s the most important part and will define a great design. Unfortunately it’s also the least appreciated of any of the processes. Whilst I only buy materials that inspire me, a design may not come easily, often taking days, weeks and sometimes I will sit on materials for months until I get the idea completed in my mind before even starting to play with production. I very rarely have to draw it out, as this often suggests the piece is too complicated, whereas I prefer simplicity.

Materials – Choosing Gemstones, Pearls, Shells etc is a personal experience and one that requires an eye for quality and detail, ears to the ground for the latest market releases, and actually not constantly following the norm, but is always based on intuition. Even if I’ve exceeded my budget, there is usually something I just can’t say no to and I’m always thankful for those last minute decisions.

Some believe gemstones have magical powers and others believe when worn they capture your life-force. I believe they evoke memories and certainly have a mesmerising quality, when you view them carefully to see what’s inside, as there is more to them than meets the eye. Perhaps it’s just because they are natural, yet strangely so perfect, even if they have flaws or inclusions that I choose to incorporate them in practically all my designs.

The Pearls I use are all cultured, meaning they are cultivated in fresh water with a helping hand from the experts and every year we see something new like petal shapes this year. Ultimately I look for good lustre, size and shape, but bright new colours play are part too. Pairing pearls for earrings is extremely laborious and can sometimes take up to ½ an hour for one set, any longer and I tend to put them away for another day.

Production – Through pain, sweat, stress and sometimes tears, I handwire each piece into memoirs of my experiences, emotions and travels, hence I name them. Once a design concept is firmly thought through, I intimately set out the materials, checking sizes, colours, shades, quality of materials, carefully cherry picking each gemstone or pearl as if it were a diamond for a solitaire ring. I see such depths in each material and finally frame them into Sterling Silver to display each piece to my exact specification, sometimes dancing with various other precious metals like yellow gold when necessary.

Tools – My weapons of choice are my hands, for without them, I am unable to achieve such intricate details especially when wiring 0.3mm wires! Along with a simple combination of pliers, precision cutters, a good imagination and willingness to produce quality, not to mention years practicing each technique, is all that is required.

Courage, Spirit, Passion, Hard work and Sheer Determination –It has taken many years of dedication to the art of jewellery making to earn a prestigious title such as an Artist. As a Designers/Maker I pour my heart and soul into my work, contemplating and scrutinising each twist of wire and I never compromise.

Yet it’s not just about the work I produce, changing from a hobbyist into a commercial business has taken virtually all my energy, and it’s certainly not without sacrifice. I am now constantly evolving and steering the business, like a chameleon searching for the multitude of skills inside myself, so that I can improve each day.

Finally, it’s the delightful thank you’s from satisfied customers that keeps my dedication on track. Little notes that ping through emails, or hand penned notes pinned around my studio walls; I refer to from time to time. Not that I need enthusiasm, as I have plenty of that, it’s just a little reminder that I’m heading in the right direction, for one needs to consider what they have already achieved in order to move forward. After all, I am only as good as my last design.

I am, to this day, in search of that illusive perfect design.

New Season, New Reasons...

2009-03-24T02:06:00.000-07:00

So the doom and gloom on the markets may be making us think more about how to gain the most from our money, but we still all need a bit of "feel good factor" to get us out of bed. And in a world of rules for rule sack, in my world of styling, there are no rules for classics, and classics are always key in any wardrobe, so you can guarantee the one piece you buy, will stand the test of time.

Thinking about how to keep the business flowing in the right direction in our current economic climate has allowed me to consider the reasons why we choose the jewellery we wear. I recall my Nana discussing how her family survived the Great Depression in Australia, she was from a wealthy family but had to sell some of the family jewellery to feed themselves. This old-fashioned ideal could never be more significant today and is why I have decided to move slightly away from fashion-led jewellery, for this season, as we have become such fast consumers, and rather edging backwards in time, to a more glamorous era when quality really mattered...

I have gathered all the best gemstones and natural pearls available to revisit my routes of cluster designs, similar to "vintage" revival, where elegance, extravagance and fashion collide. Bracelets and necklaces dripping with hundreds of individual components all fighting for the right to sparkle in the light, finished with ornate and fanciful detail makes these classicl pieces, ideal collectibles for the future.

Each piece is a labour of love, the time taken to handcraft these luxurious creations is more like full days (not hours) making them more precious, as gemstones and silver are commodities in their own right, and a good investment. For pure indulgence thus named the DELUXE Collection.

When you polish your style with unique jewellery pieces you get a real rush of freedom and vitality, like taking the top off your sports car when you've just set your hair, sitting on wet grass with white linen trousers, burning a beautiful candle rather than keeping it just for decoration, eating desert before dinner, to live and love, because we can. These are not just for special occasions, because everyday is special and we must cherish the moments we have.

All of these unique pieces have been designed for private customers, both here and abroad. Should you like what you see, please contact me directly via email or go to my etsy shop.

New Candle Recipe

2009-03-09T05:19:00.000-07:00

Those of you who have enjoyed burning my aromatherapy candles, should by now know the benefits and amazing powers of pure Essential Oils.
After only a short, but successful time on the market, I am thrilled to introduce another of my very own scent blends called REFRESH... Made with Rosemary, Lime & Lavender.
The concept behind this blend was to create the ideal dinner party accompaniment. We love to cook and entertain in our home where many friends and family have sat around our dinner table and enjoyed the scents of my candles. This led me towards developing a specific scent for such occasions and I believe this new addition blends well when serving food. The trick was not to overpower subtle food smells, rather to compliment, perfect for welcoming guests, entertaining and may even stimulate intellectual conversation. But there are other benefits to this particular blend too.....
This wonderful mix of citrus and wood offers a clean feeling, so is perfect for detoxing, for self indulgent beauty days at home, or for enjoying that "spring clean" feeling without picking up a mop or cleaning cloth. Also, this combination of Rosemary is great for concentration and clear thinking, the Lime revives whilst the Lavender works to calm the nerves and so may aid study or brainstorming in the office.
All candles come in recyclable, eco-friendly packaging. This new scent will be available online soon and at specialty stockists.

Latest Press

2009-01-25T03:19:00.000-08:00

The Western Mail featured my kitchen in their "Favourite Room" article by editor Charlotte Hayden, which you can view here.

Coloured Diamonds

2008-12-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

Black Diamonds are the latest "craze" in the London jewellery scene at the moment, although I have been working with these for the last 3 years!
Unfortunately, as they are still fairly unknown, there seems to be some confusion regarding the Diamond Collection that I am showing on my website. Apparently, customers believe they are not real?
For the record, if they are called Diamonds on my website, and in accordance with Trade Descriptions, that is exactly what they are!
Most customers may not have seen Diamonds in this form before, but I can assure you, they are real Diamonds, just not cut like what you would see in traditional jewellery. They are weighed the same, in Carats, the difference is that these are beads i.e with a hole in the middle for threading, and obviously far less expensive.

Black Diamond 2 drop pendant Black Pearls on Sterling Silver, approx 5 Carats.

How? Traditional "cut" diamonds use only the best types of raw diamond leaving the rest for dust, literally (on diamond drills for instance). With the onslaught of colours to hit the market, and the ever expanding bead market's zest for new stones and cuts, the suppliers/cutters (mostly in India) decided to experiment with diamond beads, and has been the biggest product to hit the bead market since Precious Clay was introduced. At the last International Jewellery London Trade Fair in September, retailers were queing to purchase ready made necklaces (crafted in India) for the Christmas season.

2 drop Black Diamond and Labradorite earrings, on oxidised Sterling Silver.

Being a Diamond, the hardest substance known to mankind, they sparkle beautifully like a diamond should, but because they are mostly solid in colour, although they have inclusions and some transperancy, they don't have the "fire" of a traditional cut white diamond, i.e allows more refraction of light. Each bead is "roughly" faceted, to keep the price competitive and they are usually found in 2mm button shapes.

Yellow, Green & Brown Diamond necklet with short single gold pearl drop, approx 3.5 Carats in weight.

I handcraft unique pieces for each individual customer, in keeping with my signature and have several colours available including Black, Grey, Yellow, Green, Brown, exclusively cut into 1mm cubes. As the holes are so tiny, I thread 0.3mm wire, either Sterling Silver or Yellow Gold and each necklace takes a minimum of 3 hours to make, as all diamonds are individually wired to make a chain. I can also oxidise the Silver for a blackened finish, again very en vogue this year. Alternatively, I indispurse the individually wired diamonds with diamond cut chain, thereby reducing the overall price of the finished piece.

Layered Black Diamonds for sparkling "Harry Winston" Red Carpet moments!

Coloured Diamonds look amazing multi-layered, as a tight necklet or with drops of pearls, whichever you prefer and to your exact requirements. Please feel free to email me regarding these gorgeous and most precious gems only available from my online boutique, e:melinda@melindamulcahy.com. Prices start from as little as £45 for 30point earrings with drop pearls, so your not exactly breaking the budget.

The Gift

2008-12-02T01:29:00.000-08:00

In this cold commodity culture
Where you lay your money down
It's hard to even notice
That all this earth is hallowed ground...
The gift keeps moving
Never know where it's going to land
You must stand back and let it
Keep on changing hands. --Bruce Cockburn

This week's inspiration, when all we are hearing is doom and gloom!

And always remember, "It's not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing it"

Here come the girls....

2008-11-28T02:11:00.000-08:00

For some strange reason I am one of these girls who manages to spot new and interesting things before everyone else. Of course, I always share my news with friends. It's my sixth sense for high fashion.
For some, keeping up to date with fashion fads can be a rather daunting task, so I am happy to offer my services by letting you know my predictions and best picks for each season. Here are my top fashion finds for the imminent party season.....
Most exciting find so far is Barry M cosmetics, which I found in Superdrug, very well priced at around £4-5 and will glitterize you for perfect party power. I love the glitter gel eye liner in red, green, turquoise, silver and anything else you can think of. Not to mention their glitter nail polish, I had to have the red. Go to www.barrym.com for the most fun you'll have since the eighties!

The best place I have seen so far for, in my opinion, festive frocks is Monsoon, they have by far excelled themselves with the most colourful line they have ever done. Divine teals, greens, reds and not much grey or black in sight - YIPPEE! I picked up a satin Emerald Green dress for £85 which will be my top frock for the season.
The must have but ridiculously priced Lara Bohinc black and gold Suede Tatiana clutch - £595.00 is a good investment piece and will stand the test of time.
I great pair of ankle boots in bright purple suede, although I am currently lusting over the Chloe electric blue cut-out angle boots at £455. If you like the colour but not the price, go to Preen at Topshop's Boutique collection, which is about time as I am so sick of "Wafe Moss". And whilst you're there, new find Ashish do colourful sequin outfits to match the boots.
For everyday coats, go for long and black like the Moncler padded at £645, although I bought a fab long zip front from Karen Millen, which does the trick for windy and rainy school runs at half the price..
For the ultimate lip plumping lipgloss rather than cosmetic surgery, during my recent trip through Schiphol Airport, Amsterdam, I found a new product called LipFusion XL which is a little pricey, at about £36, but I have to say works! Available via www.musthave.co.uk
Oh and don't forget to accessorise with a fab piece of jewellery like my long Constellations necklace and earrings from £30 available via my online boutique and at selected stockists!

Unusually styled woolly jumpers and knitted dresses are huge this winter. Oversized, or majorly textured with different patterns and cuts like Jil Sanders knitted dresses, and I love the Antonia Berardi bell sleeved kimono style cardi if you want to blow the budget. Otherwise go to Topshop for chunky shawls and cardigans. If all else fails, just get yourself an oversized cowl from Etsy which will do the trick.
If you just want to spruce up that tired LBD, get yourself some gorgeous Gothic Lace Leggins from Topshop for £22.
Bows, bows, bows are everywhere, oh and get yourself a hat, like the Nougat soft and cutchy Mohair knitted Beret with bow detail, in Mink (available at Ginger Lily, Malpas) £69.
And, I am not ashamed to admit that it really is worth checking littlewoods these days for good quality brands. They have certainly upped their game since their catalogue days.

one door closes, another opens

2008-11-20T03:05:00.000-08:00

It's disheartening at times, bordering on slitting my wrists down right frustrating when, customers, usually stockists , decide not to restock my jewellery, as they have chosen a more lucrative path of "mass produced" brands like Pilgrim found on every High Street (ggrrrr) leaving no room for us little crafty "independents". Sometimes it feels like my coat tails are still trapped in the door just slammed in my face.
Strangely, similar to karma, another door always seems to open for me, like meeting Jayne or becoming email buddies with Jean, or finding another place to sell my jewellery like Etsy, or being invited to showcase at Celtic Manor events.
Someone explained early in my sales career the "when one door shuts, another opens" theory, which has held me in good stead remembering this and is my most valuable tool when working alone. The old saying "Your only as good as your last sale" I adapt to many areas of business including my designs. Perhaps this might explain why I am so prolific at producing new designs and why I choose not to have a signature style preferring to be a chameleon.
With the power of positive thought, I always seem to recover with a little bit of effort, survival mode and intuition kick in and I am able to see the new horizons everywhere. And actually, when I think about it, this happens in relationships too!
I don't like to say I never look back, as that suggests ignorance. Learning from a situation is always wise in business, but looking forward for new opportunities is far more exciting.....

Ginger Lily Opens

2008-11-17T08:30:00.000-08:00

Last week saw the inaugural opening of my fellow jewellery designer/come entrepreneur and friend Jayne Wade's new shop called "Ginger Lily". Little surprise, according to locals on the night, Jayne's gorgeous shop has already made a real splash into the sweet little town.
Located on the main street of Malpas, Cheshire, after talking with the locals who joined in the celebrations, it's exactly what they wanted.

Jayne (right) with friend Alison and a local customer

As an independent shop, Jayne not only offers something different from the High Street, but also prides herself on supporting local talent, like myself for instance, along with her own jewellery brand "Jayne Wade", Dower & Hall, Nougat smellies and accessories, gifts, prints from local artists and much more.

Jayne's business Partner (right) with a customer

Of course, apart from Jayne and her partners, no-one was more excited to see the opening than me as Jayne bravely trusted me to produce the natural therapy candles I had been raving about, and was the first stockist to feature them. I was delighted to see how well received they were, literately walking out the door, with fabulous comments in tow.

Jayne's Sister with local Graphic Designer

I love supporting independent traders who support British designers, which are few and far between these days, but even more so with Ginger Lily, as I have seen first hand the hard work and courage it has already taken and I am so thrilled for her.
On the border of Cheshire, Shropshire and North Wales, it's a great place and idealic country town, so don't forget to drop by and take a look inside. It will be well worth it.

Not the best pic of me, with Jayne (left), but it had taken 5 1/2 hours to get there, leaving no time for fluffing myself up!

Ginger Lily can be found at: The Cross, High Street, Malpas, Cheshire SY14 8QX

Handmade

2008-11-11T02:23:00.000-08:00

I have found the most fabulous website for all things handmade.

It's called Etsy and I have recently signed up to start selling my products on it.

Sellers all admire one another's work and it's more than a selling site, it's an international community of artisans.

You will find thousands of amazing items for sale and all handmade by the sellers themselves, like myself, so you are supporting individuals, rather than corporations!

So rather than worry yourselves over Christmas shopping this season, I suggest you take a good look. You will be pleasantly surprised.

Genius.

Candles NOW available online

2008-11-05T01:27:00.000-08:00

Thanks to my brilliant web-girl, my new Aromatherapy Candles are now available to purchase on my website!

Believe me, they smell even more divine than the pictures portray.

These candles have been made with much love by myself, not to mention a great deal of time testing and researching to perfect the scents so that they fill a room.
At £13.50, you can't even say you're spoiling yourself, so try both scents and let me know which is the best!
Even more exciting, take advantage of FREE DELIVERY for purchases over £50.

Being Who You Are:

2008-10-21T12:31:00.000-07:00

People of high self-esteem are not driven to make themself superior to others. They do not seek to prove their value by measuring themselves against a comparative standard. Their joy is being who they are, not in being better than someone else. Nathanial Brendan

In the news

2008-09-25T02:00:00.000-07:00

I was asked yesterday to comment on Catherine Zeta Jones style V's Carla Bruni!

Here is the article link which made the front cover of today's Western Mail newspaper

Of course there can be only one, and in my opinion, CJZ wins hands down.

New Gold

2008-09-18T01:18:00.001-07:00

Yellow Gold is certainly on trend right now and seeing as my choice has been Silver for over 17 years, I think it's time for a change.

I have decided to introduce a Yellow Gold line and I hope to progress this throughout some other collections so that I can please those staunch yellow gold lovers with my little treasures. Make sure to check into the website or this blog for more details.

Above: Keishi Pearl Hearts, Gold Plated Solid Silver Hearts & Swarovski Crystal Hearts extra long necklace, earrings and bracelet.

But don't worry Silver lovers, I have no intention of going over to the other side full time!

Bracelet of Keishi Star Pearls & Swarovski Hearts on fine Yellow Gold chain

Stars

2008-09-18T01:18:00.000-07:00

I am thrilled to finally announce that my new season's collection will be available shortly on my website and via stockists named "Constellations"featuring stars.

Since YSL introduced their mega-star glass necklace in Spring, editors of fashion mags have been featuring stars at every opportunity, but, as stars are so hard to find in precious jewellery, editors have even been specifically requesting them from designers like me!

I have been searching high and low for star shaped Pearls and I have finally got my hands on them! Known in the trade as "Stellation" it was a real challenge to find good quality AND a good size, like these new Keishi Pearls just in.

Of course High Street brands have already mass produced dress jewellery featuring stars, but always edging on the side of caution, the precious jewellery market hasn't yet featured them, because I certainly didn't see any traders at the IJL (Int Jewellery London trade fair) with these gorgeous pearls as part of their Christmas collections.

One particular stockist of mine has been chomping at the bit to get her hands on these little twinklers and I will be dropping the new collection in to Bryl's Boutique, Barry, later today!

If you can't wait until they get loaded on my website, call the studio for more info on 01656 651527

My New Therapeutic Candles

2008-09-18T01:05:00.000-07:00

They really do smell even better than they look! Enjoy them before you light them, they smell devine. But when you do finally light them, just sit back and let these beautiful scents take you away to paradise.

I hope you like them as much as I do..