31 Days, 31 Reasons to be Thankful: January 24: Glitter

Glitter!!!!!!!!

I love it. I honestly can't think of a single time when I've thought, "boy, that's too much glitter" (I'm speaking strictly in artistic terms...cosmetic usage is a completely different topic). 

When I say "glitter" I mean ANYTHING that glitters, sparkles, shines, and otherwise reflects everything overtly feminine and bling-y. 

In fact, I've kind of built a business around my love of these things.

Someone once told me I leave a trail of glitter everywhere I go...including toes (ha!). 

I am inclined to agree.

Today I am thankful for glitter because it evokes in me the senses of happiness and joy, 

beauty and femininity.

How do YOU sparkle in your everyday life?

"Some girls are just born with glitter in their veins. "   -Paris Hilton

What's in the Etsy Shop?

I've been working SUPER hard to update my Etsy store with all of the fun things I've been working on. It's been a busy holiday season, but as my friends begin to sit down and peruse the internet for some good old fashioned home shopping, here's a glance at what you'll find in the bel monili Etsy store. Swing by for a visit!

www.belmonili.etsy.com

Cuff Bracelets are Back

It's the holiday season, and the desire for sparkle and bling is in full effect. Thanks to a beautiful article in the Pittsburgh Post Gazette, a huge number of women (and a few men too!) shopped online and came to Handmade Arcade to purchase bel monili's latest favorite thing: vintage component leather cuff bracelets!

We sold out over the weekend, but fear not my dear friends...they are BACK! 

With limited quantities available, these adorable cuffs are one of a kind and sure to be YOUR new favorite accessory. Check them out in our Etsy store and grab one before they're gone again.

Happy Holiday Shopping Season!

Weddings!

Summer is the season of love, and bel monili is a friend to the brides! This summer, I had the distinct honor of creating goodies for 5 beautiful brides and their respective bridal parties. This is truly a favorite for me; I LOVE the idea that one of my creations will have a place in someone's family history.

A bridal sash, custom created with satin ribbon, lace from a vintage bridal gown, and antique rhinestones and pearls

As you know, bel monili items are created using vintage materials, meaning that these beautiful bridal pieces are created using materials rich in history. Perhaps it was a brooch from the mother of a bride in the 1920s, the earrings of a blushing bride in the 1950s, or the necklace of a bridesmaid in any of these magical times.

Custom collage style necklaces featuring antique rhinestone components

bel monili bridal can make your dreams come true. I hand-craft items that are uniquely designed for each bride's specific needs, meaning that each special day is truly one of a kind right down to the last detail.

bel monili signature vintage component cluster bracelets, designed to compliment a wedding's theme colors

Gifts for bridesmaids will be cherished (and actually worn!) for years to come, giving the recipient of the special piece a reminder of that special day, and her friendship with the bride. Custom designs for the bride offer a unique compliment to her gorgeous gown, and each piece lives on as an heirloom quality work of art.

signature collage style necklace featuring antique rhinestone pieces

Brides, bridesmaids, mothers, sisters, aunts, grandmothers...take notice and get your thinking caps on. bel monili will work with you to custom design the bridal accessories and gifts that will add the perfect touch of sentiment to your special day.