Monday, December 30, 2013

Latest Ali Amaro photoshoot preview

It was fun remixing and layering my family heirlooms (the diadema), the necklace that made me want to become a metalsmith (Ibo island filligree), and my jewelry I made (floral chain maille necklace and acrylic slice stud earrings).

Friday, December 13, 2013

I've got a shingle now

A while back our neighbors J and K asked if I was excited to put my shingle up, and I had no idea what they were talking about. Apparently it's a (well-known?) expression that means you are opening your own business, putting a sign out that has your name on it.

So I have a shingle now.  It is very beautiful, and my logo and map background I designed match the colors of the building which is a surprise I find really pleasing.

The inside of the building came together, too, and is so perfect. The space is elegant, full of light and flowers (not to mention jewels and objects!), and it transmits such a good energy. The showroom bears my name, but it is really about the work of many, many people. From Rico building me the most beautiful display furniture and workstation, to Emi and Carolyn's pieces, to Matt's photos, to Jenn's packaging, to my mom's flower design, to the contractors' many talents, to my awesome landlords…everything came together.

And of course the encouragement and support of the many people I hold near and dear, and the many communities I am lucky to be part of: family, childhood friends, development world friends, school friends, local friends and neighbors, CCA, the jewelry/metals community, my fellow Point Richmond business owners, blog friends…the list goes on and on, and that excites me more than anything. I feel surrounded by people who want to see me happy, who want to be part of this big leap forward.

Here are a few photos from our grand opening last weekend. It was a grand success. Thank you.
























Sunday, December 01, 2013

What my life has looked like lately

I feel like I'm living in a beautiful washing machine, a thousand tumbles and a hectic pace amid color and texture and wonder.

Showroom opens in 6 days.

My mom (and Studio Belvedere) lost a good girl along the way, but she is looking upon us from a land of cookies, walks, and amethysts until we meet again.