SJMade

Over the weekend, I took part in Discover Downtown San Jose and spent most of the day at the SJMade fair. It is a bi-annual vendor fair, showcasing local artists and crafters, sponsored by The Usuals clothing boutique. This year it was held at the San Pedro Square Market. My main responsibility was to man the Content booth and let people know who we are. Lucky for me, I got there before my shift and was able to walk around. As guests walked around, people found products ranging from jewelry to clothing to art. Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera on me and couldn't take any pictures, but here are a few vendors that caught my eye:

Shop. Find. Love.
This may have been my favorite booth in the whole place. Tera, the owner/creator, recycles old books and creates journals from their covers. In an effort to use all aspects of the books, she uses the bindings for books markers and the extra pages to create pre-made celebration banners. Some of her banners included, "Happy Anniversary, "I Love You", and "Happy Birthday".

new modern love
I'm a sucker for stationary and notecards; I really have to practice self-control if I get anywhere near the Paper Source. That's why I had to stop at new modern love's booth at the fair. Once I was able to look closer at Melissa's designs, I knew I had to have them. Melissa targets niche audiences through her witty and clever designs. For example, her "Last Cigarette" card may not be applicable to my life, but it made me want to find a person that could use it for a loved one.

Isobell Jewelry
As I came up to Isobell's booth, I was drawn in by the natural, earthy designs of her jewelry. The jewelry doesn't feel exaggerated or over the top, rather it was understated yet elegant. I snatched up a pair of colorful stud earrings before I continued on my way.

Overall, it was a great day at SJMade. The weather was a bit warm, but it didn't seem to wilt the moods of the people who came by. I loved seeing all of the talented people and the treasures they produce. It gets me excited just thinking about the next one!

Did you happen to stop by the SJMade fair this year? What was your favorite vendor? 
(Photos: SJMade / Shop.Find.Love. / new modern love / Isobell Jewelry)

Alexis Russell Design

Yesterday, Joanna from A Cup of Jo was hosting a giveaway in which one lucky reader would win a pair of Alexis Russell Design rough diamond stud earrings. Of course I entered the giveaway, but also poked around Alexis' website. I love the beauty of her designs. The jewelry is unique, feminine, and raw; I especially love the hand hammered bands on so many of the rings. Here are a few of my favorites...

Clockwise from top left: Red Pear Rose Cut Diamond Stacking Ring / Green Sapphire Stud Earrings / Hammered Rose Gold Stacking Ring / Black Diamond Disc Earrings

Sweet Rings

I used to love wearing large, chunky jewelry. Big rings, big earrings, big necklaces, big everything! Over the last year, I've noticed that I am now drawn toward simple, almost understated, jewelry.  Small gold rings, simple stud earring, and even a thin chain necklace if my neck is lucky. I don't think there is any particular reason for my shift in preference, other than simplicity is what I am drawn to right now. I've found that Etsy is a great place to find simple jewelry, and I usually finish poking around with quite the wish list!

Here are a few sweet rings that I would love to have in my jewelry box. Enjoy!

Are you drawn to any type of jewelry more than other? Do you have anything specific on your wish list this year?
(Photos: 1, 3, & 4 - Style Me Pretty; 2 - Etsy)