Ruched Bridal Clutch

clutch_bridal, originally uploaded by Laura Bee Seattle.

While the average bride never wears her wedding dress again, she can carry their bridal bag years into the future, no matter how much waistlines and fashions change.

A special bridal bag can be used on dinner out each anniversary, and ultimately passed along as a 'something borrowed' to future generations.

Wedding season continues, and I've made many wedding collections thus far in 2011. Most focus on bridesmaid gifts, sometimes to the neglect of the bride herself. Even if a bride doesn't carry much in a purse on her special day, she'll need some tissues, lipstick, and her phone and/or camera.

The bride who designed the above bag chose a lovely soft blue lining as her 'something blue.'

Summer's Last Splash Sale!

 Have you seen our most recent newsletter? We're having a great sale through the end of August. Click here to get the details.

Why am I showing you pictures of mini wallets? Well, you'll need to hop on over to our Facebook page here to find out! We're having flash sales on various products through August 31st. You don't have to be a Facebooker to visit our page, so don't miss out.

Seasons

Richmond Beach, originally uploaded by Laura Bee Seattle.

Working in retail means that I'm usually thinking at least one season ahead: Hot summer sun equals thoughts of autumn colors, scarf orders, and cozy socks to sell.

Still, sometimes it's important to sit in the moment and enjoy a little sun on my (SPF 50 protected) face.

Happy August everyone.

Dog Days of Summer: Part III

We don't want to neglect our feline friends! Here's a photo pillow that I recently made for a customer to give as a birthday gift. The paprika suede complements the green of the background and the cat's eyes.

Customers often ask me for advice on what image color works best on our custom photo products. They wonder if they should use the color version of an image, or if they should elect to switch the image to black and white or sepia. This pillow is an example of a good use of a color image. The colors are central to the look of the image, and without the green, the cat would read as mostly mid-tone shades of gray.

I think that sepia and black and white are great options for pictures of people especially, because they eliminate the clutter of random clothing colors and keep the focus on the faces.

Order your own Custom Photo Pillow here.

Dog Days of Summer: Part II

I will admit that my favorite of our Custom Photo Products is our little notebook. I just love this pocket-sized pad for its cuteness and functionality. We made these with the little composition notepads that can be found at most drugstores and office supply stores, making refills easy.

Here are two that I made recently for a customer. She chose glossy black for the exteriors of each, and a fun pop of color for the interior.

 

Because she couldn't decide which of these adorable images to use on this special gift, we added a second image in the inside cover of this notebook.

Order your own custom photo notebook here. Additional image is $8, and must be added in our Seattle store or via email.

Dog Days of Summer: Part One

We've been busy with custom photo products lately, especially those featuring our canine friends. Here's a whole batch of checkbooks we made featuring the gorgeous professional photography of Barbara Karant.

In addition to taking portraits of furry clients (above) Barbara is active in Greyhound rescue, and many of the photo products we make for her are designed as fundraisers for this worthy cause.

PS - Checkbooks may seem old-fashioned or charmingly retro, depending on your perspective. We sell a lot of them. They can be used in alternate ways too; the two interior pockets are perfect for coupons and receipts.

Order your own Custom Photo Checkbooks here.