RooTs Collaborative

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I am thrilled to announce that my designs are being shown in a beautiful new location: RooTs Collaborative in downtown Mill Valley.

It's handmade heaven...

RooTs is one of those wonderful places that are a godsend for us struggling, independent artists and craftspeople.  The gallery was founded by John and Catherine Vignale a little over a year ago with the vision of “supporting community, encouraging creativity and getting back to the grass ‘roots’ of supporting local art and craft.”  They’ve done an amazing job to selecting merchandise, inventing creative and inspired displays, and creating a bright and beautiful space to shop in.  From my years working at Frog Hollow, I know how challenging it can be to manage a craft gallery space, and RooTs has met these challenges head-on and is thriving.  If you are anywhere in the North Bay, it’s a must see.

Go say hello to Catherine and John, and see the beautiful works by a few of my local favorites:

Bicycle Clock by 1 by Liz

Bicycle Clock - 1 by Liz

Rosemary Lemon Soap- Etta + Billie

Rosemary Lemon Soap- Etta + Billie

SF Love Notecards- Noteify

SF Love Notecards- Noteify

Continuing Education

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One of my goals for 2011 is to learn new techniques and take my technical metalsmithing skills to the next level.  To that end, I did a lot of research as to the best classes in the area for me to take, and as it turns out, they’re at Scintillant Studio– the space I am currently working out of.

Class starts this week, and I could not be more excited.  I think continuing education is very important for my work.  I am excited to be challenged and to be forced out of my old habits into new ways of thinking.  I have a whole laundry list of the techniques I am dying to learn, including etching, enameling, and texturing with the rolling mill.  The instructors are Aimee Golant (check out her stunning menorah below) and Adam Clark, the owner of the studio and technical advisor for a book every jeweler knows- The Complete Metalsmith.  I’ll be posting updates with exciting new tips, techniques and designs I develop over the next eight weeks.

Have you ever taken a class that changes the way you work and think?  Let me know, I would love to hear about your experience.

Life Source Menorah by Aimee Golant

Life Source Menorah by Aimee Golant

The girl with a hammer is now the girl with a smartphone!

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I finally did it. It was time. And guess what? I did it for you!
I got myself this fancy new smartphone so I can keep all of you updated on my latest sketches, news, inspirations and designs- and I can do it all on the go!
Now I’ll actually be able to keep my Twitter updated (it was feeling a little neglected) and show you guys photos of what I’m working on instantly, instead of days (or, *cough* weeks) later! I’m loving the camera- it’s pretty amazing!  Check out some of the photos I’ve taken with it!
And yes, I wrote this entire post on the phone, just to see if I could.

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New packaging!!

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Kendra Renee Jewelry Packaging

Maybe I just get too excited about paper products, but I'm pretty psyched about these!

Since I got my shiny new logo, I redesigned all my packaging for the upcoming holiday season (now that it’s November 1st it’s okay to talk about the holidays, right?)  I’m so excited about the packaging I thought I’d share.  I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Confessions…

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Okay guys, I know I have been M.I.A. for a few weeks now.  I’m really sorry about the lack of posts and updates!  The reason I’ve been neglecting my blog (and a few other daily activities…like showering…) is that I leave for the One of a Kind Show in New York City in just over a week!  I can hardly believe it’s come up so fast.   So what have I been up to?  Making jewelry like there’s no tomorrow for starters!  Some of you have noticed I’ve also updated my website!

The Oceanic Necklace by Kendra Renee Jewelry

Just one of many of my new photographs!

I incorporated the gorgeous new model shots by local photographer Rizza San Agustin, and added my brand new logo from local graphic designer Jaime Merz!  (Look for more about Jaime and the designs she worked on for me in an upcoming interview.)  With my brand-spanking-new logo I designed all new business cards, postcards, and gift boxes.  I even ordered new gift wrap (I’m in love with my new packaging…)  On top of all of that, I’ve been working on my booth display!  It had to be all ready so that I could ship it to the advance warehouse this week.  Here’s a sneak peek at the basic design for my booth.

Kendra Renee Jewelry NYC booth

I'm going for simple, spacious and striking. What do you think?

I promise it will look even better in real life, which is why you should come to New York and see it for yourself!  And even better, I can get you into the show for free!!!  Yep.  Most people will have to pay $15 to get in, but not you!  Just follow this link, fill out the form (making sure to select COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSION) and tickets will be sent to you!  Feel free to share the link with anyone you know who might want to come to the show.

If you come by on Sunday around 1pm, you’ll be able to to hear me give a lecture about my work!  I really hope you can make it!  For more information about the show, visit the One of a Kind Show and Sale Website.

Anyway, that just scratches the surface of all the things I’ve been up to for the last few weeks.  It’s been crazy, but in a good way.   Things are finally coming together, and I know the eventually, all my blood sweat and tears will pay off.