Lauren Embree Jewelry

A Journey to "Old Rio"

2012-02-01T11:45:00.000-06:00

Hi friends! I hope all of you are well and enjoying this mild winter we're having (I certainly am!) After a very relaxing & recharging winter vacation with my husband Dave, I'm happy to be back in the jewelry studio working on my latest collection: Old Rio!

Spring & Summer 2012 is all about bold design & bright colors, and what better inspiration than the vibrant life & people of Brazil! My friend Fletch recently visited this gorgeous country & graciously collected vintage treasures for me throughout his adventure. From Brazil to NYC to my tiny studio in Fayetteville, I was mesmerized when these one of kind pieces made their way into my hands.

Ornate antique keys, vintage Catholic medals and mementos from a Spanish pilgrimage emanate history & intrigue. Paired with stunning natural gemstones & vintage chains, each treasure is carefully staged to continue its journey into your life.

Ornate antique key with vintage chains, pearls, aventurine, garnet & large emerald drop

Vintage "Ave Maria" (Hail Mary) rosary ring centerpiece trailed by vintage chains, amethyst, carnelian, quartz & turquoise

"Ave Maria" detail

Large ornate antique key with quartz, carnelian & druzy agate hung from vintage chains

Vintage embossed brass bead with druzy agate, amethyst, carnelian & quartz on vintage chains

This is a limited collection of one of a kind jewelry. To inquire about a specific piece, please email me!

"A Journey to Old Rio" will be featured at the first ever NWA Fashion Week, taking place on the Fayetteville Square March 5-10. Look for Lauren Embree to be featured in the Art Amiss show Thursday, March 8 (Get your tickets here!)

New Year, New Sale!

2012-01-04T11:52:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year, friends!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season! To celebrate the beginning of 2012, I am making room for my brand new Spring 2012 collection that will debut soon by offering some of my favorite pieces from 2011 in a special clearance sale.

This is your chance to get that special piece you had your eye on over the holiday season, but felt guilty to purchase for yourself! Let your patience pay off by taking advantage of my New Year Clearance Sale - going on now through next week! Click here to see what's on sale!

It's Party Time!

2011-12-05T19:49:00.000-06:00

I hope you can join me this coming Saturday for my annual holiday party! It's my way of saying THANKS for another wonderful year!

We'll have plenty of festive cocktails & bites to enjoy, as well as door prizes & special holiday discounts - perfect for any last minute shopping you may need to do!

I'd love to see you there!

The Launch of Terre Mere

2011-11-30T16:27:00.001-06:00

I enjoy creating jewelry for all types of women - young & old, trendy & classic, and now, Moms!

A few months ago, I was asked by Rebekah Champagne, mother & owner of Terra Tots Natural Parenting here in Fayetteville, to create a new collection for her store. Terra Tots features a variety of eco-friendly products for babies & parents, including cloth diapers, natural clothing (they carry several local designers!), toys & more. Rebekah & I chatted for a while about the habits of babies and their penchant for exploring by grabbing, pulling & pinching, and the toll that can take on a mom!

Armed with information, I set out to design a collection that would appeal to the needs of a new mom. I'm happy to announce Terre Mere (French for Earth Mother), the latest collection from Lauren Embree Jewelry!

Terre Mere features pregnancy necklaces, nursing necklaces & traditional birthstone necklaces made from precious & semi precious gemstones and natural materials. Each piece is handcrafted, and available exclusively at Terra Tots.

Pregnancy necklaces are designed to be worn by expecting mothers, with charms & stones that jingle to create a pleasant sound for baby. Adorned with semi precious stones that represent fertility, protection, healing & wisdom, along with charm symbols.

Nursing necklaces keep baby's hands distracted while nursing. Instead of pinching and pulling at mom, the colorful beads attract baby's attention. Made from natural gemstones, recycled vintage wood beads and leather cord. Each necklace features a sterling silver magnetic break away clasp that is designed to pull apart if the baby pulls too hard.

Wonderful photos by Meredith Mashburn Photography!

Traditional Birthstone Necklaces are the perfect gift for expecting mothers or as a little girl's first piece of jewelry! Traditional birthstones are older, society based birthstones determined by the Gregorian calendar, and differ slightly from modern birthstones. The Gregorian calendar also features poems matching each month with it's stone, and each will be included with the necklace.

If you're a mom, mom to be, or looking to pamper one, you won't want to miss the Terre Mere Launch Party & Trunk Show! Coming up on Saturday, December 3rd at Terra Tots. Here's the invite...hope to see you there!

New Online Store Launch & Black Friday Discount

2011-11-23T16:20:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Lauren Embree Jewelry! Best wishes to you & your loved ones this holiday weekend.

Today I launched my new online store - now you can shop from the comfort of Facebook!

Thanks to the app VendorShop, you can shop the latest from Lauren Embree Jewelry securely, directly through Facebook. Even better - if you're a fan of my page, you automatically get a discount on almost every item in the store!

PLUS - I now have the power to issue coupon codes for discounts...test out my new store with the discount code: "BlackFriday" and get 30% off your entire order!

Custom Orders for the Holidays!

2011-11-20T20:28:00.000-06:00

Custom jewelry makes a great one of a kind gift, especially for the girl who has everything!

I'm scheduling custom holiday orders now - if you have a special girl (or guy, I also make men's jewelry!) email me to design a piece of jewelry as special as they are.

Custom initial necklaces are a great gift for anyone on your Christmas list!

Custom made jewelry

Have old family jewelry laying around? Bring it to me to redesign into multiple pieces so that everyone in the family can have a piece!

Turn this...

Into all of this!

The holiday's are certainly upon us, so email me to schedule your custom order today!

World's Worst Blogger Tries Again!

2011-11-08T16:11:00.000-06:00

Six months ago, I issued a challenge to myself - to blog at least once a week. My last post? About 5 months ago..I wasn't lying to you when I said "I'm the world's WORST blogger!"

I am determined, however, to give it another shot! I'll start by catching you up since my last post:

July - Thanks to the generosity of everyone who contributed to my Project Accessory Audition fund, I traveled to Chicago to audition for this new reality show. Quite an adventure! Auditions were held at the Hard Rock Chicago, and the place was packed with hopefuls! There was a lot of talent around, and it was fun to see (and privately judge!) everyone else's work. I made it through the first round of interviews, only to be told that they were looking for designers with a range of skills, including shoe & handbag construction. I am by no means handy on a sewing machine, so that was the end of my PA dream! Alas, it was a wonderful trip, my first to Chicago! Here I am enjoying a beautifully windy day in front of Buckingham Fountain.

August - I had the pleasure of showing my Fall 2011 collection at the Art Amiss Fashion Show, held at the Matt Miller Studio on August 25th. My designs were also paired with clothing designer Jen Simmons' collection. The studio was packed with fans of local fashion, and we had a great party! Here are a few candid photos:

And here's a great shot by the amazing photographer, Celi Birke! See more here.

September & October - I've been working hard these last few months to keep adding to my Fall 2011 collection! Lauren Embree Jewelry is quickly expanding...you can now find an exclusive collection of my work at Branch Out Boutique in Conway, AR. I'm also adding 2 new stores in Fayetteville. Details to follow soon!! Here's a look at the latest from the studio:

My self inflicted title of "World's Worst Blogger" is officially retired! There's too much to share, and I'm looking forward to connecting with my friends & fans in a new way!

Best wishes,

Help me audition for PROJECT ACCESSORY!

2011-06-10T12:37:00.000-05:00

Friends & Fans! I'm so excited to announce that the producers of my favorite television show, Project Runway, are casting designers for their latest show, Project Accessory!

I've been a huge fan of Project Runway throughout their 8 seasons, and have often said that "I CANNOT wait until they make this show for accessory designers!"

Well, that day is finally here, and even more, they're casting in Chicago in just 2 weeks! I believe that this opportunity has found me at the perfect point in my design career, and that I have the ingenuity, skill & passion it takes to contend (even win!) this competition!

I'm very much looking forward to this adventure, and invite you to be a part of the experience with me - If you'd like to support me in this endeavor, please consider purchasing a piece of jewelry - all June sales will be used to cover my expenses of traveling to Chicago to audition for Project Accessory!

If you are feeling super generous and would like to give a donation, any size contribution will be forever appreciated.

Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your continued support & encouragement!

With deepest gratitude,
Lauren

New Website!

2011-06-07T12:08:00.000-05:00

After hours & hours of work, I'm so proud to announce the launch my newly redesigned website! Please take a moment to check it out & let me know what you think :)

What you'll see:

Be a part of the story - I believe in creating jewelry that tells a story, and sustainability is a big part of that story! I hope this new website helps to convey that message more than the previous
Bigger pictures! I've changed the aspect ratio of the site, allowing you to view larger than life photos of jewelry.
Lighter site - hopefully it's easier on the eyes than the darker colors of the previous site
Better online store - each piece of jewelry now has it's own page, making the shopping process much easier!
Stay in the loop - Keep up to date on the latest happenings with a news feed on the front page

New contest - win a $30 gift certificate!

2011-05-24T17:26:00.000-05:00

One of the most rewarding things about my work is hearing how many compliments my clients receive when they wear my designs! It's actually what lead me to designing jewelry full time...I've heard some great stories from women (and men!) who get tons of attention because of their fine taste in jewelry ;)

If you own a piece of mine that gets you compliments, I'd love to hear your story! If you don't own a piece (yet!), please share your most attention getting piece. Everyone who shares will be entered to win a $30 gift certificate for their own piece of Lauren Embree Jewelry! This contest is open until Friday, May 27th. Feel free to share on this blog, or at facebook.com/lejewelry.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Bad at Blogging!

2011-05-18T18:16:00.000-05:00

Seeing as though my most recent post was 3 months ago, I think it's safe to label myself as a "bad blogger!"

It's not that I don't have anything to share...these last 3 months have kept me quite busy! Fashion shows, launching 2 new collections, media interviews, a new boutique opening...time flies when you're having fun!

That being said, no more excuses! I'm challenging myself to blog as much as I can in the future...at least once a week (hopefully more!)

I'll be sharing behind the scenes photos, fabulous finds, fashion tips, and links to creative ideas & people. I hope you'll join in on the conversation!

Looking forward to it!

Lauren

Before the show - Designer's Choice Fashion Show

April 2nd in Little Rock, AR

My Favorite Trend for 2011

2011-02-25T14:37:00.000-06:00

ORANGE!!

I'm so excited that orange is THE color for 2011! Marc Jacobs rocked it at Spring NY Fashion Week, and the color was all over the runway during the Fall 2011 Fashion Week that just wrapped up. Orange is one of my all time top faves, and I'm glad it's getting the attention it deserves!

So it's no surprise that I've given Orange a prominent place in my Spring/Summer collection. You'll find the bright hue perfectly paired with lapis, ruby, turquoise & more!

Bright & cheery carnelian paired with ruby

Vintage lapis lazuli scarabs with carnelian

Carnelian with turquoise

Gorgeous chalcedony with carnelian & vintage links

Vintage chain bracelet with amethyst, vintage silk bead & a pop of carnelian

Vintage "Weiss" earring restyled into a fabulous cocktail ring

Want to rock the look yourself? Email me or visit my website!

Fashion Week Giveaway with Satori Style

2011-02-16T12:47:00.000-06:00

NY Fashion Week is wrapping up soon, and we want to know - what are your favorite runway trends?

Comment below (or at facebook.com/lejewelry) and you're entered to win a fabulous prize pack including custom earrings & 2 hours of styling from Satori Style!

Catch up on the latest from NYC:

www.mbfashionweek.com

www.newyorkfashionweek.com

1 winner will be chosen on 2/21/11...good luck!

Annual Valentine's Day Sale

2011-02-07T13:02:00.000-06:00

Greetings, friends!

I hope you are all staying warm & cozy in the midst of all this winter weather!

Valentine's Day is just a week away, and the annual Valentine's Sale is in full swing at LaurenEmbreeJewelry.com. Almost everything is on sale - some as much as 50% off, and as always, FREE shipping! Be sure to swing by & check it out before it ends...

Vintage Brooch Rings

Vintage Calla Lily Earrings with Blue & Pink Sapphire

Love Token Necklaces

Vintage Peacock Rhinestone Earrings with Ruby

Join us on Facebook for even more discounts & secret sales!

Thanks everyone - Happy Valentine's Day!

I ♥ Treasure Hunting!

2011-01-14T14:55:00.000-06:00

There are a hundred million things I love about my new career as a jewelry designer - being my own boss, working in PJ's (at 3 am, if I'm so inclined), connecting with people from around the world...but I have to say one of the things I enjoy most about what I do is TREASURE hunting!

My husband & I are always on the hunt for spectacular vintage treasures. Flea markets, antique stores, thrift shops, garage & estate sales - anytime we have a free day - we're on the hunt. It can be a long & arduous process, but oh so worth it when we find that special piece! I'd like to share with you some AWESOME treasures we picked up yesterday:

Our first stop: Grey Dog Vintage Boutique
If you love all things vintage, you HAVE to check this place out...it's unlike any other vintage store you've ever been to (see what I mean here)

Molly, the shop's owner, has a gorgeous collection of vintage clothes to share - all of which have been expertly cleaned & tailored for a modern fit. But we weren't there to shop for clothes...check out what I picked up:

A pretty vintage brooch, in the hue of Pantone's color of the year (can you tell I'm already looking toward spring?)

I can never pass up vintage micro mosaic

Vintage cuff links - inspiration for my men's line (but these are being made into earrings!)

And one thing for me - a stunning vintage beaded clutch (for a steal!), but it was the mosaic pattern that made this a must have for my personal collection!

After a disappointing trip to another local vintage store, we ended up at a favorite, All My Treasures (aptly named!) I found a few things, but what I'm most excited to work with...

Marbles! I purchased a huge jar of vintage marbles - I'm absolutely mesmerized by the various colors & textures in each one. They're going to be one of the stars in my upcoming men's collection!

Into the studio I go...I'll be sure to post after pics once these treasures are re:fashioned into modern heirlooms!

Whole Living Premiere & Showroom Grand Opening Gala

2011-01-03T17:38:00.000-06:00

There are a WHOLE lot of reasons to party! Join Lauren Embree Jewelry & help celebrate my feature in Martha Stewart's Whole Living magazine!

This event is also the grand opening of my new jewelry showroom, located inside the Matt Miller Studio, on the Square in Fayetteville! The space features my entire jewelry collection in a relaxed, artistic setting.

Be sure to stop by during First Thursday festivities & enjoy wine, hors d'oeuvres, live music & lots of fabulous jewelry!

Upcoming Holiday Parties

2010-11-15T11:52:00.000-06:00

Greetings friends!

Each year it seems like the holidays start just a little bit earlier than the year before. I've already been to a few holiday parties, and the invitations are continuing to roll in...so I wanted to let you in on the fun!

Here's a peek at a few holiday events coming up soon. I'd love it if you could make it to one or two!

Mayapple Holiday Party
Friday, November 19th
6 - 8 pm
Mayapple Salon & Boutique in Fayetteville

Mayapple just started carrying a small collection of my jewelry, and I'll have more on hand to show this Friday evening at their holiday party! Join us for an evening of cocktails, jewelry, discounts, giveaways & salon specials.

Lauren Embree Jewelry Holiday Trunk Show
Saturday, November 20th
4 - 8 pm
Fayetteville Visitors Center

The Fayetteville Visitors Center is hosting me during their annual Holiday Open House, taking place during the Fayetteville Holiday Parade & lighting of Lights of the Ozarks. I'll be on hand showcasing my entire Winter 2011 collection - be sure to pop in for festive refreshments, lots of giveaways, one night only specials & more! This is THE official Lauren Embree Jewelry Holiday Trunk Show, so you definitely don't want to miss it! View the video invite below, and click here to RSVP on Facebook

Thoughts, inspiration, rants & raves!

2010-10-22T00:37:00.000-05:00

Hi friends!

Thanks so much for joining me on my new blog. I'm excited to have a place to share new ideas, inspiration, frustration & success with you all! Please, feel free to post your own thoughts & good news as well - I'd love to hear from you!

For this first post, I'd like to share a few links with you. If you don't know much about me or my jewelry, these interviews will fill you in!

http://thedailybasics.com/earth2/2010-10-20/20781/20781

http://www.fayettevilleflyer.com/2010/10/07/fayetteville-jewelry-designer-getting-national-exposure/#comments

http://www.ozarksunbound.com/modern-sensibilities-and-vintage-charms-five-questions-with-lauren-embree-jewelry-maker-and-artist/11314

To see more of my jewelry, you can visit my website at www.laurenembreejewelry.com or check out my Kickstarter project

I'll also be using this blog to host special jewelry giveaways & discounts, so be sure to follow me & you're entered to win!

Thank you all for your continued support in this crazy adventure! It means the world to me.

Peace to you & yours,
Lauren