Meet Our Newest Designer-Kaitlin McKeown!

Greetings Giving Tree...From NYC!
I am so excited to be a part of this weeks debut of a brand new artist to Giving Tree Jewelry, Kaitlin McKeown! 
 
The story of how Giving Tree and Kaitlin 'came to be' is a great one, filled with serendipity and great energy. Kaitlin's boyfriend, George (http://www.grkotsovos.com) was helping me build my new website for How To Avoid Being Sad.
I love working with George. He is so talented, and so ...cool., you know, just one of those people that make 'style' and 'fashion' seem effortless. One day, George casually mentioned that his girlfriend was the head jeweler at one of my FAVORITE jewelry companies ever, and that she was now ready to launch her own collection. George knew nothing about Giving Tree Jewelry (that's the serendipity part!)
And when I met Kaitlin and saw her work, I knew Giving Tree was the place for her!
We are thrilled to debut Kaitlin's debut collection on our site and in our gallery today.


And last night, Kaitlin and I did the art shows in Chelsea together. I had an instant girl crush! Kaitlin is so beautiful, stylish, funny, alive, erudite... (and she loved the same art I did :))
We had a blast.
Below is a bit of our conversation, and a great way to learn a little bit more about this amazing new talent in the jewelry and fashion world!


With love and excitement,
Rachel Leigh Smith
www.howtoavoidbeingsad.com

Talking To Kaitlin McKeown- Brand new designer at www.givingtreejewelry.com

GTJ: How and when did you discover you wanted to be a jewelry designer?
K.M.-I started at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa as a graphic design student and took a Metals class for fun when I realized how much I loved it.
GTJ: Did you study jewelry design?
K.M- Yes. I received my BFA at ISU with an emphasis in metal smithing and received my bench jeweler certification at New Approach School for Jewelers in Virginia.
GTJ: Are you creative in other mediums and fields as well?
K.M- I have been drawing and sculpting since I was young. I am also loving creating my own handbags after an FIT class I took last year. Throughout art school I took several painting and screen-printing classes as well as participated in the Gaffer's Guild, which was ISU's glassblowing club.
GTJ: You worked as a jeweler for a major 'label' .. was this how you learned your craft? What do you most remember/admire from that experience?
K.M- I learned my craft from a collection of experiences, school, and working as a repair jeweler but Ten Thousand Things gave me the kind of knowledge and experience I needed to know how to run a small business. We had a lot of fun at work and it was an awesome atmosphere with great and talented people to work with and for. I wouldn't be doing this today without them.
GTJ: Describe your 'personal style' -dress…etc..
K.M- Tough but cool. Casual with an edge.
GTJ: What kind of music/culture/art do you tend towards?
K.M- The music I listen to has a pretty broad range and it's hard to sum it up quickly. I guess anywhere from Kid Koala to Coachwhips to Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band... and ALWAYS The Rolling Stones! As for culture and art, I spend a lot of Thursdays going to openings in NYC. Basically, I take advantage of all the culture NYC has to offer from the architecture to the art to the parks, beaches, and free music. Most of my friends are artists and musicians and I feel like we take turns supporting each other which in turn has become my culture. Some of my favorite artists include: Lee Bontecou, Richard Serra, Louise Bourgeois, Odilon Redon, and Ray Johnson.
GTJ: You live in Brooklyn right? do you like it? why?
K.M- Yes. I love Brooklyn. I cannot speak highly enough about it. It has everything you could want from NYC; food, boutiques, music, and art but without all the intensity that Manhattan can be. It's really chill but still maintains the high standards anyone would expect out of New York.
GTJ: What do you draw the most inspiration from? people, fashion, art?
K.M- Oh, I'd be lying if I only picked one. Art is probably the biggest inspiration however I think I am constantly picking up on everything around me... people on the subway, fashion trends I see, because in New York you are constantly bombarded by all of these things. To say all of these things don't affect my designs would be wrong.
GTJ: Who would your 'dream model' for a piece of jewelry be?
K.M- Michelle Williams. She is so talented and beautiful but seems down to earth with a good sense of humor. I love her.
*gtj note.. Michelle is also a Brooklyn Girl!
GTJ: Do you design for/as what you would wear?
K.M- I definitely design for what I want to wear. In fact, I wear the double spike necklace in gold and black almost daily.
GTJ: Why did you choose the shapes you did for your first collection? Why tigers eye?
K.M-Well, the tiger's eye, besides being a beautiful stone, was actually given to me originally as a gift from a best friend in support of my new career after school. So I felt I should design a piece around it as an homage to one of my biggest supporters. I love the shapes I chose for this collection because they have a tough edge to them but they are also elegant and beautiful as well.













　











































　

A Very, Very Early Morning Update From Giving Tree

There is something about this place. I can't feign to understand it, completely, but it always happens when I return home and to the Giving Tree, to work. I can't sleep. I get too excited to start every new day, and find myself awake, always, well before 5 am.
This morning, I had to force myself to lie back down at 2:37 pm and wait, at least, for the sun to rise with me, which happened almost exactly two hours later.
Now, an hour after that, I am all dressed and caffeinated and about to head into the gardens again, but I wanted to spend a few moments celebrating, and sharing, what must be the "magic" of this place.
Magic. It's really the only word I can think of. This place is special. And although I dedicated almost a decade of my life to running the day to day parts of Giving Tree Gallery and our website, I know for sure I had very little, if anything, to do with that.
Instead, what this place most definitively and powerfully is, is the ACTUALIZATION OF A VISION, and even more, THE REALIZATION OF A DREAM.
And those two things belong to my mom, Judith.
She did all this. And it is nothing short of magic.
Every flower that now blooms here was planted and cared for by Judith. Every jewelry case was built by her hands. Every word on the website I wrote thinking about what she taught me about jewelry, and honoring the artists behind the work.
And even though the last few years have been unbelievably difficult for everyone attached to Giving Tree, it is an amazing thing that this place keeps going. Laura and Courtney come to work every day, with happy hearts and FAITH that things will get better...
And Judith, instead of giving up, has now created a BRAND NEW BRANCH of the business!
INTRODUCING:
THE CHIC BOUTIQUE- APPELLE AT GIVING TREE!
WATCH THE VIDEO NOW-

It is impossible to capture the real feeling of this new space. That is why we hope lots of people can come to our grand opening party on THURSDAY JUNE 23RD from 5-7pm or plan a visit to Giving Tree this summer! 



I also made a bunch of new signs to put around the property Judith has been working on all Spring.

Here are two.

The first is a favorite quote from Andy Warhol. I put it at the far end of the rope bridge, because the spot offers a view of our incredible marsh and the outlets to the sea, and this is how I feel every time I stand there.



Another is tucked,  almost out of view, in the gardens facing the new boutique. If I ever doubt myself, or my ability to actually actualize my own vision, and realize my own dreams... I only need to look at the boutique and think of my mom and what she continues to create, every day.
This always makes me want to say thank you.

.It's now 6 am, and I am on my way to the gardens now. I feel so lucky and again, just want to say...
Thank you.

Here is hoping there is a beautiful magic in your day too!
With love,
Rachel Leigh Smith- Cape Cod June 2011

INTRODUCING OUR CAPE COD ARTISTS SECTION!

When Courtney asked me to write something for today's debut of the Cape Cod Artists Section at Giving Tree Jewelry, I was so excited. 

 

I spent all day biking around New York City, but my heart was on Cape Cod.. (who am I kidding, it always is!)

 

For the last six months I have been "watching from the wings" as Courtney, Laura, and most especially Judith, have worked TIRELESSLY to bring this new section to life. The three of them spent all winter researching, meeting artists, and building the pages online for each artist and each piece. I know the amount of time and care this effort involves. I think that is why they asked me to write a little about it. They are too busy!

 

So what can we expect from this new section? GREAT THINGS!

 

The reason is simple. The very first thing I 'learned' when I came home from Los Angeles to work side by side with my Mother at the gallery was her unwavering insistence that we "knew each and every artist personally". Judith believed (and still does) that as there is a vision (and a heart) behind each and every piece of jewelry, we should KNOW the person that creates the piece.

 

It makes sense! Judith also taught us that the most sacred thing we can do is to support the arts. We do this by supporting the ARTIST.

Every artist in this new Cape Cod section is truly a master of their craft. Each and every piece is handmade, on Cape Cod.

This may sound like a simple thing, but in this day and age of mass produced merchandise, nothing could be more special.

 

So, it is with GREAT excitement, that I shout out from the wings.. that Giving Tree Jewelry is so very proud to present its brand new

CAPE COD ARTISTS SECTION!

 

Meet

Susan Wilson

Meryl Lefkovitz

Melanie Rawding

Kim Deane

Heather Hoffman

Heidi Weddendorf

Bev Gallerani

Ann Hanson

Lesley Erikson 

 

and CELEBRATE with us- CAPE COD, JEWELRY, ART, AND MOST ESSENTIALLY OF ALL, THE ARTISTS!

RELIEF FOR JAPAN - CHARITY NECKLACE

Once upon a time I heard a story about the way a big ship in the ocean changes direction.

It does so, the story goes, by the movement of a tiny rudder attached to the giant propeller, motor thing at the back of it.

A tiny 4" rudder.

The point is that a very small action, can set off a huge reaction.

 

Today we debut our THE SUN WILL RISE AGAIN- RELIEF FOR JAPAN charity necklace designed by Marla Wallerstein of Marla Studio.

Our goal is to donate at least $2,000 to the relief efforts in Japan.

All of the proceeds from the sale of the necklace will be donated to the American Red Cross.

 

Most importantly, the purchase of this necklace is the small thing that shows our collective support for everyone affected by this incomprehensible tragedy. It is the tiny movement that will help evoke giant healing, foster great hope, and tell our brothers and sisters in Japan that we are with them, and that the SUN WILL RISE AGAIN.

 

Everything we love about the artistry and vision of Marla is found in this sublime piece of jewelry. The sun pendant is subtle and marvelous. A perfectly shined full sun is surrounded by rays of light etched in to the background. Perfect for men and women.

 

SENDING PEACE AND HEALING AND HOPE AND LOVE TO JAPAN,

Rachel, Judith, Courtney, and Laura- The Girls of Giving Tree

Click here to purchase THE SUN WILL RISE AGAIN NECKLACE and donate to relief efforts in Japan.

The Whys of March

GIVING TREE JEWELRY - A SMALL BUSINESS ASKS A BIG QUESTION
but first, a poem...

The Whys Of March
Where oh where have our customers gone?
Could it be, we’ve done something wrong?
I have a confession,
I think it’s the recession…

But what do we do if it’s “us”?
So here’s where you mention
Without worry or tension
Just what it is we can change.
We already Tweet, Digg, Kaboodle
Blog, YouTube, and Yelp!
But apparently,
We still need your help…
Are we simply not doing enough?
Is the issue with our customer service,
Or simply we don’t have the right stuff?
Tell us- we promise we are ready,
And can turn off our ‘hearts‘ and be heady
Whatever it takes, we will do
Giving Tree matters so much to us
And
we hope...
To you too!!!

THANK YOU!


A Letter from Judith and Rachel:

Welcome to the “Whys Of March”- When we admit to you that it has been a VERY hard year, and we ask you, our dear customers, what it is we can do better, to be your first designer jewelry and gift giving option. We have never done this before, but we have to do something, because we just don’t get it. And we want to. When we look back at the things we have done, in the past two years, we have to say, our resolve and dedication to this business, is staggering, even to us.
We were one of the first businesses of our kind to really embrace Facebook. We ran 5 Facebook-built contests and gave away over 10k in jewelry. We created a ‘custom quote‘ contest and designed jewelry around our customers contributions. We set up a fund for Haitian Earthquake relief and raised over 3k. We are now setting up a fund for the efforts in Japan.
We started ‘Giving Tree Giving Back‘ and made significant contributions to half a dozen charities that are near and dear to our customers. We hosted a team on Stand Up To Cancer. We have blogged, consistently, for over 2 years. We have our own YouTube channel, and we did an ‘artist of the week‘ special with lots of different videos. We Tweet, daily. We gave away a gift certificate every week for over a year as part of our ‘Win on Wednesday‘ campaign. We ran our second annual ‘12 Days of Joy‘ promotion and gave away a piece of designer jewelry every day, for 12 days, in December.
We dedicated Thursdays to just being grateful.
Personally, we sold both our cars and refinanced our home to keep the business going another year, but after realizing the business alone couldn’t possibly support both mother and daughter, we made the very hard decision to have Rachel leave the company to try to find work in the big city.
We are in a tight spot. And we are asking for help. Not orders, necessarily, although those always help, but any insight you might have for us.
Is our site too confusing?
Are there much better deals elsewhere?
Do you prefer to shop directly from the artist?
Does our selection let you down?
This is your chance to tell us. We are listening. And we appreciate you.

Thank you for listening, and thank you for being a part of this journey with us. It may not always be smooth, but we are hoping it continues.
With So Much Love,
Judith, Rachel, Laura and Courtney



Anyone who completes our survey before April 1st is entered to win a Sterling Fearlessness Slate Necklace from Me&Ro - An awesome piece of jewelry and our number one best seller.

Click here to answer our survey and be entered into win a Me&Ro Fearlessness Slate.

THANK YOU!

Feeling Like A True New Yorker - One Sample Sale At A Time

RACHEL IN THE CITY - COLUMN ONE


Sometimes, it really is the little things that make us feel like we are on our way or, in my case, that we have arrived.

The place I am trying to “arrive” is New York City. Although I moved to the city seven months ago, I still usually feel like I am an outsider, overwhelmed and fumbling through my days-just me and 8 million of my closest friends. I usually feel that I have the wrong address, took the wrong train line, was overcharged, left out, or just not at all “in the know” that this city demands that you are, all the time.

So it feels like a big victory to me this morning when, on my day off and having a relaxed read of the new “New York Magazine” my eyes land on the section of sample sales for the week. The one I zoom in on is the Barneys Warehouse sale. Up To 80% off! Too bad I missed it, I think, until a quick calculation on my finger tips corrects me. It’s today! In an hour! I can make it!

Here is where I admit I have never been to a sample sale. And also that I basically loathe shopping. I love the results of shopping, something new and fabulous that in a silly but important way can make me feel new and fabulous-it’s just that I can usually think of about a hundred things I would rather do with my limited free time than shopping in a big department store with floors and floors of ‘stuff’.

I get to the address of the sale with ten minutes to spare. I am a little surprised that I am the only one outside. Five minutes later, a woman in a security guard uniform steps out and I think she is going to open the doors and let me in, but instead, she looks at me in a bemused but not unkind way and says “honey, I think you are wanting to go around to the back, where the entrance is.”

“Oh!” and..moments later, OH! Where the usual Barneys Warehouse entrance on 18^th street where I just was had resembled a ghost town (cue the tumbleweed) the temporary entrance on 17^th street was… wow. A sea of women, AND men, in fact I was shocked to see an almost equal mix- was swishing and lurching for the doors. When they opened three minutes later, this ocean of human beings was met, immediately, by another. Before we were allowed into the store, at least 100 security guards spilled out.

They lined the street, the entrance, the stairwell, and every five feet along the strange, makeshift ‘tunnel’ that had been set up in the basement of what was usually a very well behaved department store. The first huge room was devoted to men's suits. The next five were for the women. I was, instantly, and irrevocably- overwhelmed.

Still totally new to this sort of frenzied shopping, it takes me a little while to realize how the game is played. At one point, I leave a sweater on top of a rack while I try on a shirt, about a foot away. One pull of fabric over my eyes, and the next moment I see the sweater is GONE! I think I catch a sleeve of it dangling from another woman's very large pile of clothes, as she races to the check out. Speaking of the check out, it takes me twenty minutes and three security guards to find my way there myself.

What did I end up buying? A light brown wool hat, the kind that my grandmother could make in a day with just love and four dollars of yarn, but for some reason, Barneys saw fit to have it originally priced at $150.00 (75% off at sale) and one army green colored shirt for $29, originally $149.00. Not that I didn’t want a LOT of other things, but I am not yet in the place in my life where a blazer that was once $2,180 marked down to $890 feels like a fabulous, ‘not to be missed’ deal. I can, and did, miss that.

That’s not the point. The point is, I went to my first big city, big deal, sample sale. I was at the right place, at the right time. I was officially ‘in the know’ and I knew it.

It may be a very small and silly victory over this city that challenges me to be more confident, independent and downright brave than I have ever been, but it feels like a victory none the less.

I can’t wait to see (and share) what the next week brings. And now that I have a new fancy hat, I am feeling even more ready for it.


RACHEL IN THE CITY is a bi-monthly column written by Rachel for the Girls of Giving Tree blog. She will share stories (horror and otherwise) of her new life in NYC- the worlds most fashionable, inspiring, and overwhelming place. Stay tuned.

SPRING CLEANING!! (For Your Me&Ro Jewelry)

Over the years we have received many questions on how to properly clean and care for Me&Ro jewelry and wanted to make it available to you, so that you can keep your jewels sparkling and looking new!

Me&Ro Silver & Gold Tiny Om Bezel Pedant

 General Jewelry Care

 Store jewelry separately to avoid scratching.

 Silver jewelry should be stored in the Me&Ro anti-tarnish flannel pouch to prevent tarnishing.

 Store jewelry away from heat or direct sunlight.  

 Apply make-up, hairspray, and perfume before putting on your jewelry.

 Remove jewelry before doing strenuous activities.

 Remove jewelry before using household chemicals.

 Do not wear jewelry in a swimming pool or hot tub.  Chlorine and extreme heat can damage many gemstones and metals.

Metal Care

Me&Ro Jewelry has a matte finish.  

Do not use a polishing cloth on the jewelry as this will ruin the matte finish.

Most jewelry can be cleaned using a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water.  Always avoid harsh detergents when cleaning jewelry.  Chlorine bleach degrades karat gold. 

Polishing Creams

Several commercial polishing creams can be used to clean our jewelry.  You can use any cream or liquid gold polish, including Wright’s Silver Cream to brighten and clean your silver or Wright’s Jewelry Cleaner for 10K gold, 18K gold and platinum jewelry.

Wright's Silver Cream will remove all tarnish and brown spots and brighten up the silver jewelry in seconds. Follow the package directions; wipe Wright's cream on with a damp sponge (enclosed in jar), leave on for 30 seconds or polish thoroughly for heavily tarnished pieces. Then rinse off with warm water and use a soft dry cloth to dry. If the cream gets into the grooves or oxidized areas, gently brush out with a soft toothbrush. Wright's Silver Cream can be purchased at most hardware stores. Call 1-800-837-8140 for the store closest to you. You can also ask about their silver production strips, which are put into enclosed cases to neutralize the sulfuric gases, which cause silver to tarnish.

White 3mm Scotchbrite Pads 

These should be used for flat surfaces only, not three-dimensional pieces.  Do not use on stones.  Lightly rub the pad across the jewelry so that the brush strokes are going in the same direction.  

Me&Ro Long Sanskrit Pendant

Bon Ami 

is a common detergent for pots and pans. It restores the matte finish and brightens up any jewelry. Mix a small amount in your hand with lukewarm water. With a soft toothbrush, lightly clean the jewelry and rinse.

From The Desk Of Laura (aka "La")- Manager At Giving Tree Jewelry

We love to share. It's something we were taught to do when we were young. Success with sharing makes for good friends and relationships as we go through life.

Here at Giving Tree Jewelry, our designers share with us their new designs. We share these with you, our Giving Tree friends, everyday. A visit to our website shows you what we have to share. It is not only beautiful jewelry, but we also share a caring that your time here has been a worthwhile visit...but we think most of you know that;)

This is the time of year when designers are debuting to us their creations for the upcoming year and they are nothing less than breathtaking!

Yet to be released Me&Ro Lg. Flat Shell Earrings

Alas, we cannot buy it all. So we wanted to share some highlights and stand outs.

Brand new for this year from Me&Ro is their debut of retail line sheets or catalog. The pages number no less than 315!

That's over 300 pages of color pictures and prices, comprising their entire collection. Here at Giving Tree Jewelry, this is VERY exciting! We have never been able to share so much Me&Ro, so easily with you! If you are interested in receiving these line sheets via email, just contact us at gtjewelry@gmail.com.

A few of Jeanine Payer's newest, gorgeous designs.

This is also true for another favorite here -Jeanine Payer. Her collection for spring is amazing. The design and the words are both completely inspired. While you may not see the entire spring collection on the site, just ask us and we can send you the full catalog via email. We can always order any piece for you that you just can't live without (we understand the sentiment!)

Finally, this is also the time of year when we search for new designers. We love designers that inspire, create with meaning, love what they do and share this with us everyday. We would love it if you could share with us those designers that make you smile.

Come on! Share with us!! Just email gtjewelry@gmail.com to start the conversation!

There are sooooooo many beautiful things in this world to share! Looking forward to hearing from you soon:)

With Love,

Laura Dallaire

Giving Tree Jewelry Manager

A Very Special Blog

THE GIVING TREE*
(Re-imagined)
Once there was a tree

on a whole bunch of run down property…

and this tree was feeling a little alone,

Until one day a woman came

and made the land her own…

And instantly,

The tree

Loved..

This woman…

And every day for the next 20 years
Woman and tree,

facing all their fears,

worked,

branch in hand

To restore all the land

To it’s once magnificent state-

they sealed their fate,

Together
They would they be

Woman and tree

Till the end…..
　

But this woman..

She wasn’t alone

She had a daughter,

Who one day,

Came home!

　
Daughter began to work at the tree and the womans side

And in the womans, her mothers, house,

to reside...

And as for the tree

Well, it was now

Extra happy.


The years continued to pass

More work, life and love was amassed,

until the collapse of the economy struck

And woman daughter and tree

Found themselves
way down on their luck,
And none of the three were so happy…




So one day the daughter decided,

And in the tree and the mom she confided

That the time had come for her to see

Just what else
She could possibly be…

And although nothing about this was easy,

Daughter left the mom and the tree

To see if she could find her own happy…

　

And although daughter will terribly miss

Life with woman and tree,

Which was bliss!

Daughter also knows,

Unless she goes

She can never learn to be

Her very own giving tree….

The End...

and

The Beginning…





(Pssst…just between you and me,
a secret from woman and tree)
Daughter knows she will someday
Be here again….
It’s only a question of when

With So Much Love And Gratitude
Rachel Smith 12/24/2010

ABOUT THE ARTIST: Dena Haden was one of the first full time employees at Giving Tree Gallery. At the time, Dena was studying art, and today is one of our favorite artists! Last summer, Dena placed an installation on the grounds of Giving Tree Gallery. This year, we asked her to draw an image for this goodbye poem from Rachel. You can see more of Denas work on her website WWW.HADENDENA.COM. Dena is preparing for her upcoming solo shows as well as being available for commission work.





*This poem, and everything I will ever do.. is for Judith.
　

　

It's That Time Again... The MOST Wonderful Time... It's Time For Our 12 DAYS OF JOY!!!

YIPPEE!

Our '12 Days of Joy' is something we created last year, and it was singularly, yes, the most JOYFUL experience we had all year!

There were a few reasons for this. Allow me to make a list... as it IS list making time after all (and did I mention, we have something fabulous for everyone on your list?? But I digress)

Our List of "Why We Love Our 12 Days Of Joy Campaign"(and are SO excited to start it up again!)

1) IT WORKED! And this is no small thing. Meaning, being a small, very small (Mother, Daughter, two fabulous employees, dog) business (the LARGEST in the love we put into it however!) The economic recession was devastating for us. It took all of our faith and creativity to even continue for another year. So the 'Joy' campaign was our way of infusing some energy and excitement into the site. And we knew everyone was feeling the recession, so we chose to do really deep discounts as a thank you for the loyalty of our customers. We also made the decision (sort of in a 'when life gives you lemons' way) to actually GIVE AWAY a wonderful piece of jewelry everyday during the 12 days.

I don't think we will be invited to guest lecture at Harvard School Of Business anytime soon... but the campaign DID work! And, I happen to think it was COPIED by many 'bigger' companies. But we all know where it started, don't we? :)

2)IT WAS SO FUN! Really and truly, we had such a good time picking the pieces to offer with the huge discount, selecting a piece from our collection to give away, blogging and facebooking (is this now a verb?) about it all, and most importantly, PICKING A WINNER EACH AND EVERY DAY FOR 12 DAYS! Oh it's AWESOME.. to tell a customer that is not expecting it.. "SURPRISE! YOU JUST GOT SOMETHING WONDERFUL FOR FREE!"

3) IT MADE OUR CUSTOMERS (who we consider friends) HAPPY! There was such a good feeling through the "12 days". It was as if we could 'feel' our friends smiling when 'facebooking' :)

4)The gorgeous, glorious, jewelry-with-meaning LINKED FRIENDSHIP NECKLACE WAS BORN!

READ THE STORY OF THE LINKED FRIENDSHIP NECKLACE NOW!

5) IT MADE US HAPPY!

I actually have an entire section dedicated to the experience of creating and running our 'Joy' campaign, in my soon to be finished (I hope!)Second edition of "How To Avoid Being Sad", my little book about how to..avoid being sad!

I explain how the months leading up to the holiday season, and the "12 Days" specifically, were remarkably hard and challenging. Mostly due to the effects of the recession, but also.. they just stunk! for lots and lots of personal reasons. However, HAVING to consciously, specifically, and consistently FOCUS ON CREATING AND SHARING JOY, each and every day for 12 days, actually, in retrospect, was probably the only thing that got us through the tough time. It is as simple as the now ubiquitous concept that 'thoughts become things' but goshdarnit.. it's true! We became more joyful because we were thinking and talking and selling and giving away.. JOY!

This little in house 'marketing campaign' last year, did everything to restore our joy and faith in our business, and in the business of living. Thank you.

Now, it should be obvious why we cannot wait to start the 12 days of JOY again!

So here it is!
LET THE JOY BEGIN!

And thank you.. for receiving our joy. That's the best part for us!

Love,
Rachel, Judith, Laura, Courtney and Beazie

NEW BLOG!- GIVING TREE JEWELRY ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY CONTEST!"What Does Your Wish Look Like?"

Tell us.. better yet...

SHOW US!

Yup, that's right.. take a picture! "Show" us a visual of your big wish!

The picture and connection to your 'wish' can be as odd, esoteric, and personal as you want! This is about YOUR wishes.. only YOU know what they 'look' like!

Still, we want you to share! This week is all about being grateful. What better way to honor our potential for JOY! than to allow ourselves a few quiet moments to commisserate with our friends over all that is GOOD and RIGHT and POSSIBLE in the world!

Here is an album of pictures I snapped, QUICKLY and without much thought or editing..simply here to prove.. you don't have to be an expert (or even in focus!)

These are super 'small' moments in my day to day life.. yet they supply the beautiful 'evidence' that my 'wishes' are out there!

CHECK OUT MY PICTURES!

ADD YOUR PICTURES AND ADD YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A BRAND NEW ROUND, GOLD TINY WISH!

JUST CLICK ON 'ADD PICTURES' UNDER THE PHOTO ALBUM

UPLOAD YOUR PICTURE

CLOSE BOX, PUT IN YOUR 'WISH' DESCRIPTION (can be anything! love, luck, joy, peace, family, health, clarity, change, chocolate, the list goes on and on!)

That's right! On Friday (the day after the most fabulous day of the year!) EVERYONE who enters a photo in our contest,via the GIVING TREE JEWELRY FACEBOOK PAGE, or by emailing rachelandjudith@givingtreejewelry.com or ON OUR SHUTTERFLY CONTEST PAGE IS ELIGIBLE TO WIN A BRAND NEW, GOLD, ROUND 'TINY WISH' NECKLACE!!

IN ANTICIPATION OF ALL YOUR WISHES COMING TRUE.. (and getting to see pictures of them!) ALL OF US AT WWW.GIVINGTREEJEWELRY.COM SAY... YIPPEEE!

With wishes for your JOY!
Rachel, Cape Cod, November 2010

New Blog.. Customer Doesn't Know But...

I couldn't resist posting this email from her! A customer that has become a DEAR FRIEND.. sent this pontification today.. I loved it, I love her, and I figure, if I don't attribute a name.. it's ok to post!!. .:)
(p.s... couldn't agree more!)

have you ever been in a starbucks and noticed that everyone is trying to "be" someone? whether it be the clothing or the attitude or giant sunglasses, fancy shoes...anyway, we went to starbucks today and there was a line and an older man working the register and he was so pleasant and had this sparkle in his eye...paul newman look alike maybe 10 years ago i'd guess. rude person after rude person snatches coffee from him. he never changes...smiles at each person, greets each person with just this honest and jolly attitude regardless of how stupid they are with their giant sunglasses and god forbid they say thank you or please. so i get up there, order just a regular coffee and he starts apologizing like he just crashed into my car or something because he has to make a new pot. I just said "oh my god please, fresh coffee sounds great thanks so much for that"....grumbling people waiting. he looked me right in the eye and said "THANK YOU"....like thanks for not being a jerk. What's wrong with people that they can't have a pleasant exchange and just have a little patience and know that maybe he would rather be home with his family and not working at a stupid starbucks but maybe he has no choice so hey, be pleasant and stop treating people like they're the gum on the bottom of your shoe because they work behind the counter of a starbucks. anyway, i just got a warm feeling from the guy and felt for him working at the stupid starbucks. they should rename it stupid starbucks i think. unfortunately i like their gingerbread latte...xo

Marla Makes Us Happy! A Fun Blog With "10 Questions..." For A Favorite Artist Of Ours!

I was still VERY new to NYC the day I went to meet Marla Wallerstein, the designer behind one of our all time favorite and best selling lines of jewelry MarLa Studio. We decided to meet, by my urging, at my new 'spot'in the city- the wondrous and amazing Chelsea Market. Only Chelsea Market is really... big. As in, spanning about 4 blocks big!
At our alloted meeting time of 1030, I was waiting at the entrance. So was Marla.
Different entrances! And again, and again, until finally, waiting for the light to change green so I could cross, I spotted her. I waved and crossed the street.
That was the first time I met Marla.
Now, I can safely and emphatically say having Marla as an artist at Giving Tree, and as a friend to me, is one of the nicest things that has happened in my life!
Her jewelry is one of the most clear examples of an artists passion, purpose and SPIRIT coming out in their art. We love Marla, we love the MarLa Studio collection, and personally, I just feel blessed and HAPPY that Marla exists and I get to know her!

Speaking of getting to know Marla, check out the interview below! It is just my small way of sharing such a 'gift' of mine, with you. Thank you Marla!
From NYC, happily...
Rachel

For fun, I thought up 10 'not very related to jewelry' questions and sent them off to Marla. Check out her wonderful answers and get to know this artist a bit better!
This was so much fun, it just may turn into a regular feature on our blog! Enjoy this first edition!

10 Questions from Rachel to Marla Wallerstein of MarLa Studio

1) What celebrity/well known person would you LOVE to see one of your creations on? Who do you envision as the perfect 'model' for your jewelry?

Marla: For Women-Patti Smith Patti is the icon, the “high priestess of punk”, the muse. She projects a deeply intelligent, fearless sense of self. She’s rugged but her music and poetry reveal her -she’s vulnerable and honest. Her personal style is simple and boyish, but eternally cool. She’s getting older in the most beautiful way. I see her wearing a couple thin rectangle pieces on a 30”
chain (I’m thinking the combo of Love and Faith), layered with others on cord and chain at different lengths.
Men - Lou Reed - his name says it all.

2. Do you listen to music when you create pieces? if so, what?

Marla: I do! Tons! I’ve been listening to quite a mix lately - Regina Spektor, The New Pornographers, Tune Yards, MGMT, TV on the Radio... So much! I’m a total child of late 70’s early 80’s punk
and new wave. The music and fashion from this time have left an indelible mark - I listen to
“Clash radio” on Pandora... a lot! Music is audio fashion, it just is.

3. Finish this sentence..
When I am working in my studio, on a new design, I feel...

Marla: Complete. I feel that I’m completing my purpose, myself. Like, I found what I’m put here to do, and I’m doing it.

4. Who is your favorite artist of all time?

Marla: Eva Hesse, & Lee Bontecou are the first that come to mind. Both their work is raw and physical -
intricate and visceral. Emotional and so forceful, but not typically feminine. This is a thread that
runs through my aesthetic - the balance/tension between masculine and feminine. My work is imbued with emotional content, but cased within a strong exterior.

5. Tell me a favorite author of yours and a favorite book!

Marla: So many! Right now I’m reading Jonathan Franzen’s “Freedom”, I don’t want it to end!!!

6. If you were an animal, what animal would you be? why?

Marla: The lion. A female lion. SO elegant, so regal, and so practical all at once. They can run for hundreds of miles, kill to feed themselves and their young, carry their cubs around by the loose skin on the back of their necks and lick them all over to clean them - and always, always look magnificent. I wear the lion in copper/silver on a 30” thin ball chain with almost everything.

7. Finish this sentence: if I weren't a jewelry designer I would be a...

Marla: A studio artist. This is what I trained to do and always consider myself, even as a jewelry designer. Before I made small intimate pieces for the body, I made large abstract, atmospheric, thematic prints. It’s very different but still coming from the same place. At RISD where I got my MFA, art and design merged in a very sensible way. One day I’ll be able to make both jewelry and images!

8. Your kids!.. Describe each one in a sentence.

Marla:
Jonah - Cerebral, can realize anything with his hands, amazing vision and skill.
Gabriel - Moves beautifully and has innate rhythm, an artist and dancer.
Ari - Huge heart, lives large, insightful and engaged with all around him, creates fun.

*

9. What does loving someone, LOVE mean to you?

Marla: Being able to be in love without reservation, without holding back, without limitation. A merging of worlds, of work, of humor and intellectual exploration. Being able to allow your life to intertwine with another’s endlessly and still feel challenged and vulnerable.**


10. What do you like about being an artist at Giving Tree??

Marla: Rachel!!! You create an environment in which everyone and everything you work with is your art
- is part of your grand vision. You’ve made a personal investment in your artists, as if their work
IS your work. It’s a total ethic, it’s more than a business, it’s personal and coming from a place
of love and commitment. It’s highly unusual and a blessing - I’m honored!!!!


*Made me cry. I think all parents should do this exercise. What beautiful answers
**Made me cry. I think there is a pattern here ;)
***Made me smile!!

New Blog.. Friday? At Giving Tree Jewelry We Believe...

In the power of believing.
We believe 'wishes', when made with the whole heart,
can absolutely, positively, come true.
In fact...
we are counting on it! :)

This week at Giving Tree, we celebrate the power of specificity when it comes to wishes and dreams coming true!
We are highlighting our extensive and incredible collection of CUSTOM JEWELRY.

Anyone can pick out a piece of jewelry, but not every place can offer something that says something, directly, to the soul. This is why Giving Tree Jewelry..exists!

And next week, we are debuting a brand new "extra" custom collection of jewelry by Giving Tree and Pablo Valencia. It all came about from a request received by one of our very favorite customers of all time- Christine Crosby.

Giving Tree Facebook friends that 'know' Christine, know she is not only a force of nature, but also, the truest friend a girl could ask for. When she requested a special design from us, well.. it inspired an entire collection!

We cannot wait to share it with you (think Tiny Wishes meets True Customizing!)

And can we just give it up one more time for FEARLESS and FABULOUS friend of GTJ
CHRISTINE CROSBY? :)

I have missed writing blogs.. I have missed all of you! I am still very busy trying to make my dreams come true in NYC. In fact, just this morning, I went to Central Park at 7 am, and after finding the perfect skuffed up penny by the reservoir, made a BIG WISH before tossing it in. And yes, I DO believe it will come true!

Here is to all of YOUR wishes coming true too!

With Love and Hope
Rachel, Late October, NYC

...It's Been Too Long!

..Since we've posted a blog!
In a word, I blame WORRY!

I do it oh so very well!

If 'worry' were a course taught in college, I would have received straight A's.

I even write little 'odes' to my worry:

What is the purpose of 'worry'?
To willingly put ones mind in a flurry
And an ache in ones tummy
so that no food is yummy
oh worry won't you just go away!

*ok, I didn't say I wrote GOOD odes!

Anyway, this exceedingly GORGEOUS early fall day, I have decided to replace worry..with our 'word of the year' here at Giving Tree Jewelry.
That's right! I am replacing my worry, with HOPE!

HOPE that things (the economy!) will turn around, that JOY will once again course through the country, that people will find work and fulfillment, that Giving Tree will have a FABULOUS holiday season!

This is my HOPE, this is my MISSION!

I made a video too! Silly and fun, just the way I like to be!





With love and hope,
Rachel from NYC!

NEW BLOG MONDAY A Very Interesting Read!

Happy Monday! I am just back from Los Angeles. I can't say 'freshly' back, because truth be told, I am pretty sleepy :). I forgot about the time change, and still woke up before 6 am, only just now realizing that was 3 am to my body!

Still, I was happily energized by the article that came out in the LOS ANGELES TIMES 'TREND' SECTION yesterday 09/12/10. Giving Tree Jewelry got a nice mention, and the entire article is great reading. Even though the writer only used one sentence, I had SO MUCH to say on this subject, and am really excited and proud that Giving Tree (in my opinion) is such a positive entity in this trend towards self reliance and a personally realized definition of spirituality. YIPPEE!
It was important to me to stress the wide range of pieces we carry at Giving Tree that fit this category of 'spiritual jewelry'. Instead of focusing on one religion, one dogma, one 'truth', we have tried to create a place where there really is something for every person that has begun a journey towards something higher, and something deeper. Again, I could go on, (and on and on..) but the point is, we just love helping people find their way towards more joy, by offering a talisman for the trip!
Enjoy the article below! I couldn't get the pictures to copy from the article, so instead, I am using one that isn't on our site anymore, but will forever be a favorite image of our personal 'spirituality' and belief system.
And as always, THANK YOU SO MUCH for being a part of Giving Tree. You are what makes us grow and bloom. THANK YOU!
Rachel, NYC, Sept 2010

By Melissa Magsaysay

Los Angeles Times

September 12, 2010


Pop stars Miley Cyrus and Taylor Momsen wear rosary necklaces, sometimes four at a time over a slinky corset dress or vintage rock T-shirt. "Eat Pray Love," whose protagonist travels to India in search of enlightenment, has spawned a collection of charms, rings and bracelets. And the reality-bending Kardashian sisters are designing jewelry based on Armenian religious icons.

It's official: The practice of incorporating religious or spiritual symbols in jewelry has become ubiquitous among smaller niche designers as well as more commercial, mass brands. With the public's growing interest in yoga, meditation and personal talismans that offer protection or courage, jewelry and accessory designers are picking up the theme and adorning their work with icons deeply rooted in ancient beliefs and religions.

Jewelry designed around religious symbols or the use of religious tokens as jewelry may not seem like anything new. Who doesn't remember Madonna writhing around on a stage draped in rosaries during the 1980s? In 2004 it was David Beckham, shirtless (natch) with a delicate rosary hanging from his neck down his chest, on the cover of Vanity Fair magazine. But the trend is bigger and bolder than ever today, with icons steeped in spirituality coming in all forms of familiar (and perhaps not so familiar) symbols dangling from bangles, necklaces, earrings and even belt buckles.

A sign that society is becoming more religious? Actually, it might be just the opposite. While there will always be jewelry and tokens worn to literally show one's faith — such as a Star of David for Judaism or a crucifix for Christianity — the rise in jewelry carrying evil eye charms, Hamsa hand pendants and Hindu Om symbols caters to people who are expressing their personal spirituality rather than an affiliation with organized religion.

"We are in a moment in American religion where the emphasis is on the spiritual, not the religious," says professor Stephen Prothero from the department of religion at Boston University. He defines the vague term "spiritual" as "not being part of an organized religion, an assertion of self-reliance in spiritual things."

"I think it's more about 'who I am' and jewelry is often that," he says "What can be more intimate than something like a tattoo or jewelry? Something that's close to your body."

Prothero adds that although expressing spirituality through body decoration may seem natural, there is also an irony. "Jewelry is about materialism, and the spiritual message is the opposite. It's not supposed to be about things of this world."

Regardless, there is an undeniable surge in jewelry based on spiritual symbols that customers can't seem to get enough of. Rachel Smith, owner of http://www.givingtreejewelry.com, stocks lines such as Me + Ro and Good Charma, which incorporate elements such as Sanskrit and prayer beads in their work. "Spiritual jewelry gives people a sense of the individual within. As an individual they can find some sort of thread to something higher," she says "In the last five years I realized the need for jewelry with meaning. Now 85% of the jewelry I carry has some sort of meaning or inscription."

Southern California-based Dogeared Jewels and Gifts makes spiritually based pieces that are popular as gifts and sentimental tokens. Their wares include "Karma" pendants displayed on a card that reads "What goes around, comes around. Wear your necklace as a reminder to keep the circle positive, peaceful and loving," and a Travel Charm necklace that boasts a compass pendant, a heart pendant and a St. Christopher medallion. The latter comes mounted on a card that says "Let your icons be a reminder to navigate peacefully, with a loving heart, and a saint that's got your back!" The company also recently created an officially licensed line of jewelry tied to the release of the movie version of "Eat Pray Love," complete with lotus pendants and meditation charms.

For fall, Tory Burch has included blue and white evil eye charm jewelry, designed by Kara Ross, which seems an exotic choice for Burch, whose brand has a more conservative sensibility.

"It's just part of the interchange of cultures and the globalization of culture that we are all a part of," says Prothero, "Nobody owns religious symbols. The positive side is that it gets people to think about different religions and symbols."

More intensely religious symbols are still making their way onto jewelry, though most designers won't claim their pieces as religious, but say they are more spiritual and ultimately open to interpretation.

Take, for example, a Mexico City-based brand called Virgins, Saints and Angels, which is designed by a former image consultant for Levi's named Cheryl Finnegan who moved from California to Mexico after a divorce.

"I guess it was sort of my 'Eat Love Pray' moment," she says. Finnegan uses the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe on most of her pieces. Crosses adorn cuffs and rosary beads are made into multi-layer necklaces. But even with her brand's very specific name and the religious iconography, Finnegan uses these symbols purely for their aesthetic value.

"It's whatever you want to make of it," she says, "because it really all came from somewhere else." She adds that she is careful not to throw any of the religious iconography in anyone's face. "If someone wants to wear a St. Benedict pendant because they are a member of the St. Benedictine monks, then good! If someone likes something because it looks Celtic, they can wear it," she says. In May, Finnegan debuted a collaboration with the Kardashian sisters of TV-reality show fame who tapped their Armenian heritage to create a collection. Elements from the Armenian cross and infinity symbol were turned into earrings and bracelets, some combined with spikes to create an edgier look.

Rosary beads are also being used or deconstructed in order to create a drapey Y-shaped silhouette. Designers such as Brooklyn-based Jessica Elliott and a line called Twisted Faith have their own takes on the traditional idea of the rosary. Elliot has a collection for fall called the "Rosary" line: Y-shaped necklaces made of colored beads, anchored a third of the way down with different symbols, such as a "mesh clover" or "Istanbul diamond."

"For me, religion is not something I choose to express through jewelry because I feel it alienates people," she says. "It's more about expressing spirituality and wearing these things as a personal talisman, not religious icons." Elliott made what she called the "Unity" necklace five years ago, consisting of one chain carrying a Jewish star, a Buddha and a cross. "It didn't sell," she says, "I think people were afraid to put it in their stores." Elliott's intent was not to send a mixed message, but to add some levity to symbols that have otherwise intensely religious roots.

The religious message is "less clear when you wear an Om and you have no idea what it means," says Prothero. "Smooshing the Buddha together with a cross and star of David has a clearer message of someone who is spiritual and doesn't belong to one religion."

He adds that even though all of these symbols may be floating through the fashion world on shiny gold bangles or set with diamonds, people should be religiously literate and know what the symbols they're wearing stand for. "I'm torn. Sometimes I do get annoyed when venerable religious symbols get dumbed down, but when has it never been like that? Besides, all religions are just different paths up the same mountain."

Amen to that.

Copyright © 2010, Los Angeles Times

NEW BLOG MONDAY A Very Short (Un) Labor(ed) Day Poem!

Poem For A Picnic or
End of Summer Resolution!

Because I just hated to think
the summer would end,

Without at least trying
to turn 'foe' into 'friend"

Today I went back to the scene
of the "no samples! lobster salad" sadness

(All the while my friend proclaiming "this is MADNESS")

I waited with patience and purpose on que

Until the familiar voice came: "And how may I help you?"

I knew it right then, it was my moment to seize...

"I'd like a VERY small container of the, um, ...lobster salad... please?"

She nodded and scooped, and said not a word,

and indeed the tally for lunch

was none short of...

absurd.

Still, the salad was scrumptious

albeit fast finished-

so too was my summer long anger

diminished.

And I guess I do now just have to confess,

For such a fine, pricey, product I can't expect less.

She was tough, she was stubborn, and to her pride she did stick

and in the end, delivered, one very nice

picnic.



:)

Rachel, End Of Summer, 2010, nyc

NEW BLOG MONDAY August, A Birthday, And What Matters Most.

It is the Monday after my birthday weekend, which truth be told was more like a full week of celebrating with good friends. My one big "request" as far as celebrations go, was the chance to host a small dinner party and be able to gather some of the wonderful people in my life around a table of food, in a room filled with laughter. On Tuesday evening my friend and I brought together some of our very favorite people, and I was able to cook dinner and make the first of my birthday wishes with a candle on a cake! The evening was a success, mostly because of the open and ebbulliant spirits of the guests, who were all up for having a great time! Even when I announced that no one was allowed to leave until they sat down at the "arts and crafts table" and decorated a t-shirt for me! I must say, this was one of my better ideas ever! An icebreaker activity for the guests at the party who didn't know each other...and fabulous, one of a kind, new clothing for me! It is a wonderful thing to see people return to a place only accessed or revisited with a big colored marker, a puffy paint stick or a pair of safety scissors in hand!

*
*
*

The rest of the week continued in the same spirit, and on the day of my birthday I spent a quiet day with my friend, biking to the beach, swimming and sharing stories of our past and our dreams for the future. It was nearly perfect...

However the entire week had a soft sadness to it as well.
One of Giving Tree Jewelry's most fervent (and fun, funny, fabulous) supporters, and personally, the most incredible friend and support system I could ever ask for, continues to struggle to beat her cancer diagnosis.
It is a scenario that is tragically, all to common, seeing a loved one fight this awful disease.
In the case of my best friend, it has been a long and painful battle, and last week ushered in even more challenges to overcome. So even though I was filled with a profound sense of "joyful becoming" throughout the week of my birthday, I also had a heavy heart.
Every wish, on every candle, that I made this year, was made for my friend. That she know, in every instance, how loved she is, how inspiring she is, and how her ability to be selfless and bring laughter and joy and healing to people, is utterly remarkable, and something I regard as the ultimate manifestation of a life.
With every wish I asked that SHE be brought the same healing, and laughter and joy she has created for so many others.
I am entirely hopeful and positive she will overcome. I just wish I could do more to lift her sadness and struggle RIGHT NOW.
I know wishes alone are not enough. But I made them anyway, and send them to her with all the love and promise of forever friendship a heart can hold.

It was a beautiful, important, changing and challenging August for me.
I am attempting to grow Giving Tree by expanding its base to include NYC. So many new projects are on the horizon it is hard to contain my excitement for the (very soon!) new season. I am also hoping that by personally pushing and challenging and expanding myself (living in NYC!) Giving Tree will prosper by way of greater access and understanding of the art and fashion and culture capital of the world.
And every day, in every way I can think of, I am honoring the unfailing resolve and spirit and purely loving heart of my best friend. I am praying ceaselessly.


Rachel, Late August 2010, NYC