Life, Liberty Lux speaks to the Masses

A true talent in the Valley, Robert Ballew ... stylist and owner of LifeLibertyLux, presents to us his quirky yet informative "Blogtique" that is a delight to peruse. From tips to trends, guidance and coaching Robert is a "style-guru" you can have access to 24-7 through his tweets, updates and articles. A definite must-read for the fashion-savvy ... check it out! xo

INTEGRITY/n (1): adherence to a code of values : INCORRUPTIBILITY (2): SOUNDNESS (3): COMPLETENESS

INTEGRITY. I could drone the definition in my sleep at a very early age, not because I was a 10 year old who embodied it, not even because I lived my life by the "code", but because I was raised in a family of successful business owners who ran not only their lives but their businesses with a strong sense of it. I was raised in a home with consequences for every action. I was held accountable for not only what I did, but what I spoke, because words are truly the most powerful tool/weapon we possess. I thank the powers-that-be for the parents, grandparents, family and friends who raised me and showed me everyday what it meant to be a person of quality and integrity. Values that are very difficult to find in a world/economy/familial system seemingly void of it.

Fast-Forward to present day ... today in fact, and you will find a very different version of the little girl with big dreams and an idealistic view of her world and the people who inhabit it. I guess you could say that today, my "3rd" eye was opened, or rather pried opened (think Malcolm McDowell's character, Alex, in "A Clockwork Orange"), while going about my normal morning work routine. It occurred to me, as I read over an email so perfectly written in it's attempt to blow me off, that I actually had to step back from the screen, chuckle and then sound off in disbelief over what I was reading. The question I am left with, the one that threatens to break down what little hope I have left for TODAY's business owners, "When did we stop being human?" When did it become OK to blow people off, shoot people/their goals out of the sky and make every attempt to cut with our words? To someone like myself, who has more integrity in her pinkie than most people have in their entire being, it truly cuts like a knife.

I don't wear my resume on my back (thanks Neil), and I don't treat people as if they aren't fit to breathe the same air I do ... I go out of my way to treat everyone as politely and kindly as I can. I am not perfect, and there are times I want to crawl back into my shell, but if I am not interested in what a person is "selling" to me, I thank them for their time and respectfully decline. Everybody's time is valuable to them in regards to what they are looking to accomplish, so I respect that by not wasting it.

As the proud co-owner of two:peas jewelry these past three years, I have truly received a "Masters in Business". I have met some of the most undesirable people in the world, and yet I have met some of the best people. People who actually have taken the time to either mentor me, talk to me, and/or teach me what not to do, based on their ups and downs in the business. It's those people, who invested time in me, and valued me enough to listen to what I had to say, that keep me going on days like today. Those of you who are reading this, we can all relate whether you are a business owner or not. Why? Because we are all a participant in LIFE (albeit, some of us more active participants than others) but participants nonetheless. I invite you all to exhibit a little kindness today: (1)Ask someone how they are doing, (2)Offer to listen to someone, (3)Return emails/phone calls in a timely manner and above all, (4)Live your life with INTEGRITY.

Bendel's ... a Pea's lesson in waiting

NEW YORK CITY / 2:30 am, Thursday, March 25, 2010. This was the exact time I stepped out of my cab and onto the cold, rainy sidewalk beneath Henri Bendel's famous window on 5th Avenue. I was there to attend the twice-annual "Open-See" event, where designers from around the world can show their wares to the buyers of Bendel's in hopes of being discovered. I was following in very famous footsteps (Todd Oldham, Anna Sui, James Purcell, Pamela Dennis, etc ...) and that knowledge coupled with my determination were what kept me going for the next 6.5 hours I waited in line. Did I mention it was 35 degrees and rainy??

My only company for the first hour in line, aside from the brightly lit accessories tucked warmly inside, were two lovely friends from California (Carine, a jewelry designer and Chris a law student attending Columbia). My spot in line is the empty spot under the sign ... yup 3rd in LINE!!! I had heard and read so much about how people sleep out, but I can only assume that the weather kept many people warm in their beds (lucky bastards).

We were soon joined by designers of  The Valley Bag, who came all the way from Tennessee, Hirotaka Inoue, a jewelry designer, and his friend from Tokyo, and a bag designer from Brazil. Suddenly, we were all sharing experiences, smiling and making our way through the darkness and cold together. Amidst all of the chatter, we realized we were standing in the wrong spot and quickly relocated to THE DOOR ... note the picture below:

Again, lucky for us the weather kept most people away until later, I went from being 3rd in line, to being 8th ...still in the top 10. In this neck of the journey, I met Ronen (owner and designer of FancySexyMe.com), a very talented jewelry designer from Brooklyn, and a host of jewelry designers, handbags, cosmetics, hair accessories and gift items. You name it, they were there in droves and from every part of the world. By the time the doors swung open, it was 9am and the line was wrapped easily around 4 city blocks. I had been joined by my friend Libby, and the first 25 were quickly ushered into the warmth to take their swing at the buyers.

Down, Down, Down we went ... into the bowels of Bendel's. It was then I realized how cold I was, when trying to sign my name to the list. I had no function in my hand/fingers, and had to take a minute to warm up. The whole moment went by so quickly, it's a well-oiled machine of a production down there. We set our things down, took off our coats and before I knew I it were presenting in front of our buyer. Although the buyer praised us for the quality and look, it was deemed to be, "Too Fine" for the pieces they currently sell. Most of the pieces in their store are BIG, BOLD & BAUBLE-Y ... very different from what we were offering.

I took it all in stride. I was confident in my presentation, my appearance and our display ... the rest was out of my hands. I figured I still deserved a pat on the back for doing something extraordinary. I would and WILL do it all again, even if only for the experience I had in line. I have never met a more determined, fun, creative and inspiring group of people, as I did that morning. It was a privilege to be with them all through the journey and I look forward to seeing their products in stores in the near future. The next "Open-See" is in October, and I can assure you that I will be there ... this time with my Custom Line of jewelry.

Diversifying and satisfying ...

Being a "creative",  I am constantly looking for ways to keep my artistic perspective fresh and ever-evolving. I tend to get bored easily and so to counteract that, I am always involved with various projects to keep my inner-muse happy. One of the projects that helped to spawn my jewelry business is my custom jewelry collection. A few years back, as I was toiling away at writing business plans, researching manufacturers and designing a concept on my computer, I decided that I needed to be able to do more than to sketch and design well. I needed to be able to speak the lingo that jewelry-folk speak. I wanted to be able to understand what molding, casting and and setting meant ... not only did I want to understand those things, but I wanted to be able to do them. So, I let my fingers do the walking,  found some classes and began CREATING. There really is nothing quite like having an idea and learning how to bring it into existence.

When my mind won't shut off and the ideas are over-flowing, jewelry-making allows me to dig in and bring my imagination to life. It truly helps to satisfy the artist in me. Take a look at some of my custom creations, and let me know what you think! Cheers.

Put a Little "SPRING" Back Into Your Step ...

Put a Little "SPRING" Back Into Your Step ...

Ready to break out of hibernation mode and step into those flirty little dresses hiding in your closet? Here are some great looks that will get you thinking SPRING! xo

To Blog or Not to Blog ...

courtesy of avoidinglife.typepad.com

This really is THE question of the moment, although unless you live under a rock the answer is obvious ... BLOG, BLOG and then BLOG some more! Having worked at being a "Young Entrepreneur" now for the past two+ years ... I was initially resistant to this social media concept. I thought everything was much more significant to my process, than writing down my thoughts and posting them out to the world. I have been known to be wrong before ... this would prove to be one of those times.

We live in a very connected environment (albeit, sometimes a bit TOO connected, but connected nonetheless). Admitedly, I am likely to be swayed off that perverbial fence in either direction, when I hear or read critiques from my peers (aka-bloggers/testers/writers). Whether you have created the next Statement in Fashion, or the hottest invention to hit since "ShamWOW," Blogging can and often is that missing link that gets the "Buzz" out to the masses and often to your target markets.

The Doubting-Thomas in me, was challenged last year, when at one of our trunk shows a lovely woman approached me (after making a purchase), to tell me how reading my post about my journey as a jewelry designer touched her. It took a very sterile and inanimate object (said jewelry) and made it into something that had a story with emotion behind it. Blogging was the bridge, in this instance, that took the reader from the product to the final purchase ... all by making the connection with the reader.

That's one of the best part about this business ... the lessons learned, and the people that teach them to me on a daily basis. Thank you Colette. :)

Gone but NEVER forgotten ...

His artistic confections that took our breath away, as they strutted down catwalks worldwide, was the stuff that dreams are made of. Every season topping the one previous with whimsy, edge, spirit and passion. Alexander McQueen dared us, even taunted us into looking at fashion as more than a shirt on your back, but rather as an expression and an extension of the wearer.

At only 40 years of age, McQueen has left a deep-rooted impression on the world he immersed himself in. Having launched out of London, he soon won hearts in every fashionable city from Milan to Paris. The launch of his subsequent label McQ, was slated for presentation Thursday at NYC's Fashion week, but was cancelled upon the news of his untimely death.

McQueen meant so many things, to so many different people. He was a visionary, a leader, a game-changer ... but most of all, to me, he was a man who changed the world he saw around him by the masterful creations he put into existence. Thank you Alexander ... R.I.P.

Expressions of LOVE ...The Dancing Star 2010 Bankle Collection - Fashion Industry Network

Expressions of LOVE ...The Dancing Star 2010 Bankle Collection - Fashion Industry Network

The road ahead in 2010

It's a new year, a clean slate, a chance to make EVERYTHING right in the world ... well at least to make it right in my world. When that ball dropped on 2009, I eagerly threw open the doors to view the big beautiful road before me. A road filled with any and all possibilities, new adventures and unexplored territory. NOTE OF CAUTION: quiet the music in your head, tone down the visions of grandeur and realize that the age-old saying, "In order to know where you are going, you have to know/understand where you have been," actually means something. It's the only way I know how to road map my next few steps, so that I am building my tomorrow's on a strong foundation of yesterday's.

My reflection time revealed to me what I needed to take me and my business to the next step ... A business coach. Having worked at this for the past two years, I feel as though I am at a crucial pivot-point, where I needed a mentor/guide ... someone else in "the know". That's what I found at The Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence at the University of Pittsburgh.

Having only just begun my journey with my coach, I already feel a greater sense of calm. A feeling that I am no longer alone in this and that I have someone in my corner. I am fortunate in that I know where I want to go, I just need a little help in knowing HOW to get there.

I would like to leave you with these questions: How do you plan to move ahead in 2010 whether it be personally, professionally or both? What are some methods that work for you and for the entrepreneurs out there, is coaching something you have tried/would try?

I will keep you posted on my progress, but in the meantime enjoy your journey and explore the possibilities.

Fashion Apps ... for the Junkie in YOU!

Anyone who has an iPhone or an iPod Touch these days, knows only too well the addiction that comes with the "App Store". I love to peruse the Store when I have a spare moment, and I am amazed at how many new additions there are on the hour!

My latest obsession are the Fashion Apps. Currently Chanel, Gucci, Donna Karan & D & G have grabbed my attention with videos of the latest runway shows, locations of their retail stores and one of my favorites ... Gucci has play lists you can purchase from the Creative Director's collection to DJ Mark Ronson's custom GUCCI play list.

If you have always wanted to attend Fashion Week, but can't fly off to Paris on a moment's notice, then Pine Away no longer ... this is the next best thing!

A Look at the Bankle: the two:peas show off our jewelry on Pittsburgh Today Live

It was such a treat to be invited to appear on Pittsburgh Today LIVE, on November 9, 2009. With Michele and I both being Pittsburghers, it seemed a natural jumping off point for us to really step out in this market. One of the best things about my hometown is that we really take care of and support our own.

The versatility of our 2009 Collection really had a chance to shine, as we showed how the Bankle moves from a gorgeous ankle statement to a dazzling neck-piece, as well as showing the Boot Bankle that debuted in New York this past September.

A huge thank you to Kristine Sorensen and all of the staff at KDKA's Pittsburgh Today LIVE, for making the two:peas feel so welcome. Thank you also to Dennis Bowman for indulging us and explaining how a weatherman navigates the "Blue Screen!"

Here's the link to our appearance ... Check It Out! http://kdka.com/video/?id=64945@kdka.dayport.com

Rockin' The Trunk Show

August 27th marked our (two:peas jewelry) first ever Trunk Show, hosted by the fabulous Melissa Palmer, All Clad/VP Brand Communications at her beautiful home in Mt. Lebanon. It was truly an enchanted evening filled to the gills with wonderful people from all over the city, delectable treats provided by Michael Lench of Lench Catering and lot's of jewelry!

I had the unique opportunity of meeting our guests and answering all of their questions throughout the evening. Everything from how the product is made to the inspiration behind our concept and designs. Having worked for so long (2 years/4 months) on this business and the designs that are at the heart of our inaugural 2009 collection, in solitude ... I am thoroughly enjoying the opportunity of coming out to meet the people that have received with open arms two:peas jewelry.

As if the evening couldn't get any better, we were joined by Joanne Harrop of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review, who will be running a story on us sometime this week!

Stay tuned for a blog post on the article run!

Age ain't nuthin' but a number!

So, after reading about Rodarte's latest "LITTLE" muse in the Wall Street Journal this morning, my curious tendencies got the better of me and ... I GOOGLED! The subject of my search was an uber blogger who has managed to win the hearts and attention of one of fashion's biggest and brightest teams (Kate & Laura Mulleavy). To my astonishment, what I had expected to be the ramblings-on of a tweener, actually turned into an introduction via video to a lovely, well-spoken, intelligent and refreshingly candid 13 year-old. An old soul who takes her viewing public on an adventure through the latest looks she loves so much.

Tavi G (as she is known to her blogging public) has a depth of understanding for fashion that most adults don't possess. Her "Sophistication 101" video is quirky-cool and inventive, not to mention her interpretive dance-homage to Abba will have you smiling and bopping your head right along with her.

Tavi, you really are well BEYOND your years, and I appreciate you filling cyberspace with your brilliant light and lovely voice. I hope that Fashion Week was a wonderful opening for you into this magical and awesome world that has captivated you.

Check out Tavi as she describes her summer vacation.
http://tavi-thenewgirlintown.blogspot.com/

"They say the neon lights are bright on Broadway ..."

There was definitely "magic in the air" when the two:peas arrived in New York City for the debut of our 2009 Dancing Star Collection. Not even delayed/canceled flights and lost luggage could dampen this pea's spirits. I was determined to make my mark on my favorite city, even if I had to do it in yesterday's outfit.

We arrived in the city that never sleeps with an arranged meeting at an interested Showroom, and PR firm ... Not too shabby for an emerging company. The people that we met were bright, forthcoming and very interested in us, our product and what we could lend to the ever-evolving world of trends and statements. We left the meetings feeling overwhelmed (in a good way) with visions of a 3-day trunk show at Henri Bendel's dancing in our heads. Okay ... regroup and refocus! It was time to get serious, and prepare ourselves for the reason we were in NYC, our debut at ENK's Accessorie Circuit.

The next 3 days were possibly the most important, lesson-crammed and enjoyable days to date. Everyone involved in putting this show together from the union-workers all the way to the show's producer (Eleni), were some of the best people I have ever been fortunate enough to work with. Thanks to the Javits Center, GES and ENK!!

The vendors that we were fortunate enough to be surrounded by were amazing as well. So willing to share their experiences with us, what they have gone through in their business' history, and how to best utilize our time at the show. We networked with the best of the best, and learned so much in the process not only about ourselves, but about this industry.

So how did we fair? We managed to go International with our FIRST SALE to a man in Saudi Arabia with 4 boutiques, I met my idol (Alexis Bittar) who was warm, charming and humble ... and lastly, I realized that I am stronger and more resilient than even I thought I was. It can only Grow UP from here!

Parenthood ... The Formative Years

I know what you are thinking ... you are on a jewelry blog site, and I am talking about "Parenthood?" Well, YES I am! I felt it only fitting that my first blog really be about this amazing process, this journey I have been on since two:peas' inception back in 2007. A process that much like the birth of a child, is a momentous event which is followed by hard work, dedication and nurturing. All of which lays the groundwork for a strong, happy and successful child ... or in my case a business.

It all began over two years ago with a little bit of inspiration, a name and a dream. What it has evolved into is a life-long passion realized. It's quite an eye-opener when you build something from the ground up. The things that you think will be smooth sailing, are often accompanied by hurdles and the tasks you expect to be fraught with difficulty, end up being a walk-in-the-park. The biggest lesson I have learned along the way (and there have been quite a few), hearkens back to one of my life-long "mentors," ... here it comes, wait for it ... Tony Robbins! Okay, yes I am a fan, have been since I was a child, but that's not what's important here. What's important is what he said, that has stuck with me practically my entire adult-life: "Our Greatest Successes are forged out of our Greatest Failures." This quote has kept me going through all that life has thrown my way, because what it says is so true! When we are at our lowest points in life, it's in those moments that we gain the strength and determination we need to make our dreams a reality. It's in these moments that we experience our greatest and most powerful spurts of growth. Such a simple yet powerful statement. It's a statement that has driven me to make "SOMETHING" out of "NOTHING," to create my vision of what a company and its product should be.

two:peas jewelry is representative of the passions, the dreams and desires of myself and my partner in crime, Michele. I have been IN LOVE with fashion and the fantasy world surrounding it since I can remember, and now I have the unique opportunity to step inside this world and make my mark.

I hope that you will come along for the ride, as two:peas jewelry gets ready to launch our 2009 Collection at ENK's Accessorie Circuit Buyers Show, this August in New York City! Thanks to you all for the support and kindness. Until next time ...