Ashley is Leaving the Hive

Since Ashley is a football fan, I'm going to use a sports metaphor to break the news.

Our Ashley has been called up to the big leagues of domestic manufacturing. Next month she's off to work at Boeing, after more than six and a half years at Laura Bee Designs. Instead of ordering zippers and  faux leather, she'll be purchasing airplane parts.

We're lucky to have her humor and expertise with us for a few more weeks; her last day is February 10th. Stay tuned for information on Farewell Ashley open house we'll host early next month.

Those of you who know our shop know what a key player Ashley has been in the evolution of the company since she started here in 2004. Not only is she a production and customer service rock star, but she also worked behind the scenes on systems, design, procurement, invoicing, and myriad other tasks that have helped us grow and improve.

The thing I will miss the most, however, is talking with and seeing Ashley every day. Whether analyzing Project Runway or sharing funny stories about random retail interactions, her constant presence has enriched my life immeasurably.

I know there are many Ashley fans out there who will miss her too. Please stop by the shop to congratulate her on the next phase of her life. Boeing is lucky to get her!

You can also keep up with her fashion and beauty advice by following her witty blog: http://www.theworeroom.blogspot.com/

Staff Picks: Debbie's Fall Fabric Favorite

Debbie gravitated toward this upholstery-weight fabric in classic fall colors the minute I brought it into the store. She would pair it with our glossy bay leaf faux leather.

"I love the bold use of complementary colors on this rich fabric," she commented.

Staff Picks: Rebecca's Fall Fabric Favorite

According to Rebecca, "Orange is perfect for every season." She chose this unusual floral pattern that showcases bright shades of orange and aqua on a cobalt blue background.

"I would pair this fabric with our Truffle faux leather. The soft metallic would pick up on the subtle gold in this print."

Staff Picks: Fall Fabrics

Ashley chose this textured large-scale print as her favorite for the season.

"I love the dusty yet bright quality of the colors in this print. I'd pair it with our walnut faux leather on a bag design," she commented.

Staff Pick: Laura's Earrings

The playfully oversized scale of these earrings makes them more edgy than sweet. I think they would be perfect paired with a feminine top, dark wash jeans, and motorcycle boots.

Staff Picks: Rebecca's Earrings

Rebecca may have the least predictable taste of the crew here at Laura Bee, so I'm always curious to see what she'll like most. Since she wears mostly large earrings, Rebecca surprised me with this pick.

"I love tree motifs and the detail on these small earrings is amazing," she explained.

Staff Picks: Kim's Earrings

Kim's ears aren't pierced, but she was still able to find a favorite pair of earrings in the store.

"These are elegant but edgy," she said about this pair. "I like the mix of several metal tones and textures."

Staff Picks: Kaleigh's Earrings

Art history major (and almost graduate) Kaleigh chose earrings by her favorite line in the store, Alaska Gadgetry.

She commented, "I love everything by this designer - the attention to detail, sketch artwork, and vintage style."

Staff Picks: Ashley's Earrings

Our resident earring connoisseur chose these lightweight, large hoops by Anne Koplik.

Ashley commented, "These are perfect summer earrings in a popular color that's flattering on everyone."

Staff Picks: Debbie's Earrings

I'm starting a new blog feature - staff picks. We're a diverse group here at Laura Bee Designs, and we each have our own style. I thought you might enjoy seeing each of us our favorite store offerings.

First up is Debbie's pick for favorite earrings. Debbie said, "I like the texture and the versatility of these earrings. They are just Me!"

Masking tape art by Puglypixel.com, found here.