oh for goodness sake!

I haven't blogged for a while, largely due to a nasty eye infection caught from having poked myself in the eye... easily done apparently... stop  laughing at the back there!   Trouble is every time I try to do something my eye starts hurting, my nose starts running in reaction to the the hurting, and I can't see a thing... great!

As a result, there's been no writing, no beading, and no blogging! 

I'll be back on form soon, so watch all spaces

A funny thing happened on the way to the forum....

well ok, I've not been to any forums for some centuries, but I was on the stall on Saturday just gone (27/11).  The day was cold, but the lights on my tables cheered the place up and attracted a lot of 'looker's.  No, no not the variety of the hunky masculine kind sadly, but people browsing.  Once again there wasn't much doing in the purchasing department, and, it turns out, I was not alone.  H on the next stall was experiencing similar problems, nobody was purchasing a thing.  Strange given that it's only four weeks before the big day! H was called away to serve and excitedly placed two bracelets into little bags for two young ladies.  They left; we continued our chat.  Sometime later H came back to me 'to add insult to injury' she said, 'those girls brought the bracelets back and asked for their money to be returned as they had no money for the train home,'  Aghast I looked at her, we both sank into an almost hysterical laughter,  well what can you do in the face of adversity but laugh at it. 

I know how she felt, I thought I was going to lose two sales because my chip and pin machine decided to go to sleep and I couldn't rouse it.  Fortunately the customers paid cash, and all was well, but it was a sticky moment all right.  The shame was that the beautiful Crystal wrapped pendant is now on its way to America.  Who knows?  fame at last?

Well, November sees the demise of the stall

However, whilst I am sad at not having my stall again in Fleet, I think that it gives me the impetus to concentrate more on the niche wedding market.  My jewellery always goes down well at wedding fairs, and I receive some lovely compliments. 

as a result, it also means that I will have a bit more time to stick at the writing, and get that pesky book finished so it's not all bad.  Just a bit annoying that the centre can't manage their stalls better and keep prices to a reasonable level.  Methinks t'is their loss though.  :)

I'm so excited!

I know, I really should grow up lol.  However, during an 'emergency' dash visit to the Bead Base yesterday, Sue took me to Jane Ann's next door, another bridal outlet.  Jane has kindly agred to see me next week, so new 'mother of the bride/groom designs are in the offing.  Someone suggested yesterday that I design a new set for the mother of the groom for Spring or Summer next year, yes... they were referring to Prince William. Somehow I don't think Mrs Kween (as my Dad says) is going to be in want of a bit of bling, but nice idea, perhaps Kate's Mum instead?

Had tea with Laura and her business partner Michele today, lovely ladies, and the shop looks fab.  The end cabinet is particularly attractive!  Both they and I were very taken with the purple freshwater pearls, they are simply delicious.  Jackie you'd love them.

All for now, more as we progess :)

now selling at Brides of Winchester

They have only been open for five days and yet they have done me proud already.  ok it's only one pearl cuff bracelet, but that's not the point.  I think that the jewellery speaks for itself and the only way to really view such items is in person.

the bracelet comprises hot pink freshwater pearls with a single diamante disco ball in the centre.  Simple and yet stunning.

Here's to many more.

PPD

WOW!

At last I have got my jewellery into a bridal shop!  I am going to speak with them on Saturday, to view the shop and discuss what pieces they want and where they'll be displayed.  Laura is lovely, and was extremely enthusiastic about my work, which is a great confidence boost.

Yesterday's class went really well.  I am surprised at how I am pushing my own boundaries with this stuff all the time.  It really does go to show that you never stop learning in life.  I always think it's a shame you can't channel that knowledge to the younger generation, but maybe that is how it should be.  That's what makes the world go round, and us all different. 

Disapponted once again

well, just when you think it's going ok, something jumps up to slap you in the face doesn't it.  The Girls Nights Out gig was cancelled on Friday, so having spent bucketloads on new supplies and exhibition lights, expecting to get some really decent sales on Friday, I was again thwarted! 

That coupled with a disappointing return on the stall means that I spent the weekend feeling a little depressed.  However, ever the optimist I have photographed new items and am currently updating the website.  Not giving up, not yet anyway.  :)

i've been away for a wee while

this is my first blog for about four weeks.  i've been away to Cyprus for two of those weeks, but I'm back now.  a dodgy tan? oh yes... indeed.  new design ideas .... well yes but .... none of them seem to be catchy... fact is,... they're beautiful,.... but... no body else thinks they fit 'the trend'. don't get trendy or fashion, I've always been my own person!

Back home

After two weeks in lovely lovely Cyprus.  Fantastic, it was hot, sunny, and full of laughter.  days on the beach, nights in the clubs.... well, one night in one club, but who's counting!

now down to the hard work of getting Purple Princess into profit.  Here's hoping. :)

So the biggest event for me so far,.... yes I have agreed

to do the Girls' Night Out evening in London, 8th October.  I need lots of gorgeous things for the younger lady contingent, 20 to 35 year olds in order to maximise sales.  Let's hope it's great.... no let's hope it's fantastic, and proves to be a real springboard for Purple Princess Designs. :)

so .. today I have 'spoken' to the editor of Cosmopolitan

Yup, I have twittered, tweeted? twat? with Louise Court the editor of Cosmopolitan magazine, not too much later I was contacted by Vogue magazine as well. They are asking for advertising but I think that nearly £400 is a bit top heavy for me.  been caught out like that before!

so here is a question...

If you had money,... which I know most of us don't but just supposing, would you be prepared to spend £20 per head to go to a specific venue in London, with your girlfriends.  The idea is that the venue houses businesses such as myself, or Britvic, or Bacardi Breezer or other fashion and cosmetic stalls.  Music plays all evening, and free drinks are available.  you can browse the stalls or buy to your heart's content.

I would really appreciate your thoughts.

Jacket potato charm

Yes it really is a charm!  a Jacket potato with cheese

Lilac and pink stretchy charm bracelet mmm!

Yup! it's official I have no idea how to use this thing!

PPD dilemma

Yup, here we go again, do I shell out nearly £200 for a stall at an event in London, and become 'one of the big boys' for a night?  Girls' Night Out is the event, Vinsponi or something is the venue.  5pm to 10pm selling jewellery to potentially squiffy ladies.  The organisers reckon they'll get up to 1200 ladies to attend this event, so the return could be immense.

I was 'scouted' in the Hart Centre by someone who took my details,.. it's an opportunity, albeit an expensive one if it doesn't come off.  mmmmmmm what to do what to do?

Hart Centre - 21st August

gosh I can't believe we're half way through August already.  Fantastic folk festival weekend though, all bands were very good.  some more than others.  Keep a look out for Ahab, five young men having a fabulous time with their instruments.  They played guitars and fiddles quite well too!

Now, I have to get ready for the day in the Hart Centre once more this Saturday.  Hoping to get that trendy new necklace out there, so here goes.

well, a very disappointing result at the music festival

but upwards and onwards we go.  Hopefully the Hart Centre next week will produce some results.  I have spotted a new trend over the last few days, so I'm going to be working on something similar, and we'll see how far it goes, does mean buying some new beads though..... oh shucks!  what a hardship. 

Tiara making class at the Bead Base on 28th so looking forward to that too.

Oh dear, what a very disappointing day

Yes I'm talking about the 7th August Tongham Music Festival.  The layout of the field and stage etc. was,.... well let's be blunt, appalling.  The festival goers were far too far away from the stalls, which meant great effort had to be made to visit us.  As a result, sales were very poor indeed.  This was unexpected and a real shame, one should have been selling bucketloads of boho stuff, squiggly rings, and dangly necklaces, but no. 

My thanks, as always, go to those who did purchase, and my thanks also goes to Mr Goat for his help, and putting up with the crazily large, and very noisy fun fair.

my appearance in Your Hampshire Wedding Magazine

Yes, they've recognised me.  I am to appear in the Hot Topics section of the Sept/Oct issue of Your Hampshire Wedding magazine as an 'expert'.

the question raises the issue of dressing a red halter neck dress with appropriate, and possibly asian jewellery.  I suggested that the bulk of the design should rest around the neck, with a simple drop at the front, and maybe one at the back for added interest. 

Let's hope they like what I've said!

Have to laugh

yes you gotta laugh really.  The tiara making class should have had three students.  nope!  one had to go to hospital, and another just didn't arrive.  that left one and me.  She was a lovely lady, but it wasn't as much fun as it should have been really.  Never mind, she was very happy with her tiara, even though she couldn't manipulate the wire properly and it kept snapping!  Don't think I've got any competition there lol

Awesome day at the Hart Centre yesterday

Probably my best sales day so far, I am sooo happy, it's a great feeling to know i've done all by myself too.  well, got this far that is, I am now 'in the black' as opposed to being woefully in the red.

thanks to everyone who bought something no matter how small  :)

so another business opportunity

This time Wedding Magazine has a slot pour moi at a £100 plus VAT.  It's an 8th of a page, so about credit card sized, but it's a national magazine.  The mag will be handed out at both National Wedding Fairs in October, trouble is to even £100 is a lot of money. 

What to do, there is no guarantee I will recoup the money that's the problem.  hooo hum,mmmm

So the Four Season's Hotel

Yep they wanted the earth to advertise with them.  £800, can you believe it.  I know they're a five star hotel, but why on earth did they think a 'one-off' tiny business like me could afford that!

Suffice to say I have put it down to experience and politely said no.  Shame but there we are.

ooh a new business opportunity

A new business opportunity awaits at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dogmersfield near Fleet, Hampshire.  this could be the start of something new and exciting, provided they don't want to charge the earth for an entry into their advertising literature.

what to do? 

some things are just wrong wrong wrong!

Yup there is something very wrong indeed about naked people in an aerobics class, laying on their backs and 'cycling'.  

That is one image I really don't want in my head lol

of course, all the time I'm making jewellery, fabulous though it is, I'm not writing! 

Festival Season

Festival Season is upon us, and Purple Princess is designing loads of gorgeous little things to take to the festivals. 

Also, there will be some gorgeous beachwear designs too.  Simple, chunky bracelets and necklaces that won't spoil in the sea.  mmmmmmmmm delish!

Time in Edinburgh, now back for more designing

Had some time in Edinburgh researching my book, it was great, lovely weather, too many mosquitoes, but some very helpful and very interesting people. 

now it's back to preparing for Saturday which isn't going as well as hoped, but I still have most of tomorrow to sort it out.  yup another stall in the Hart Centre, selling my lovely wares, let's hope it's good. 

mmmmmmmmmm

More yummy things to come out of the Purple Princess Designs stable.  It's festival season, so working on some new jewellery involving celtic swirls and knots. 

I will call this new section of jewellery Magic Spirals! that should get the festival goers swooning.  Pictures of finished articles coming soon.

x

How to Photograph Jewellery – Tips and Advice

How to Photograph Jewellery – Tips and Advice

yet more gorgeousness!

Just had to share some more gorgeousness with you, here is the Lily bracelet, one of my favourites.  Very popular with bridesmaids this year, particularly in this colour, you never can tell where a trend is going to go.  All sterling silver loveliness.

http://www.purpleprincessdesigns.co.uk/

Stretchy Bracelets right on trend

Stretchy bracelets, new to the fold, but bang on trend.  The ones I particularly like are the plain ones, stretchy 'lastic, silver colour, but one or two crystal charms hanging off one side.  Elegant, simple and yet so stylish.  Understated chic.

:)

Inspiration

taking inspiration from the summer in general.  Pieces that one can wear on the beach in great colours to reflect the sun, the sand and ermm... scenery.   Some chunky, some just easy to wear lucite, colourful beads.  All of them reasonably priced. 

other inspirations are coming from the festivals, wire hoops, magic spirals and so on, combined with micro macrame necklaces and stones or wooden beads.  Not so much sparkle in some, not everyone likes sparkle, but certainly different and lovely.

Finesse bracelet:  Simple, yet elegant and gorgeous!

Summer! at last and fine time to wear the jewellery

Hey looking good today in the blue, with the blue Bonnie, and the hair clips sparkling in the sun. Yayy

now the students are diminishing in their numbers it's time to focus on summer sales, but also time to focus on the novel. Aiming to get that completed and ready for sending to agents for the end of August. Visiting Holyroodhouse in June to fill in some gaps, otherwise... the sale dates for Purple Princess are 19th June, 3rd July and 17th July.


new ideas coming on all the time. currently looking at combining history and jewellery, and replication some of Anne Boleyn's tiaras and headdresses.

New products on PurplePrincessDesigns.co.uk

Yes at last some of the new products have been uploaded to the website. Hopefully this will produce some new traffic and some new business as well :) xx

Volcanic Ash, a Dirty T1MMY and successful lessons

A three in one blogspot today. Yes the volcanic ash, mixed with all this pollen is really having a detrimental effect on everything. T1M, the purple sports car, is no longer purple but a shade of mustard twinged with purple! I clean it off, half an hour later he is covered again. sigh.

the pollen/ash is also causing me to have hayfever for the first time ever, and is also covering my beads and jewellery in a fine layer of dust.

now for the lessons! the course was fabulous on Saturday, not all the ladies attempted a Briony, but those who did came up with a completely different look to the original. Chris was pleased with her freshwater pearl necklace in petrol blue. Caroline designed earrings with white freshwater pearls and crystal rondelles. Cindy amazed everyone with her advanced wire work, wrapping loops around other wrapped loops! not sure I'd have attempted that when I was first starting! well done cindy. Thanks to everyone for coming along, even though the lunch did remain in the fridge! crumbs, even the Soave remained in the fridge, what's happening girls?

Introduction to Jewellery making

Really excited about the new course, starting this week. After the success of the tiara making courses, I'm hoping this one will have the same impact. if it works, and I see no reason why not, then I will introduce the tiara making workshops as well.

classes at the Bead Base are on hold for the present time until we know how Sue is. Hope everything is good Sue, thinking of you.

WWW.PurplePrincessDesigns.co.uk

join us on Facebook as a member of the Facebook group and receive 10% discount.

Good Selling my friends!

A good day today, yes it was a gloomy Sunday in Hampshire, but my bride arrived, and was so pleased with her bracelet (Tilly with freshwater pearls, that she's ordered two more. She also ordered a pair of matching earrings for herself.

One happy bride there, and a happy owner of Purple Princess Designs! One more person to spread the word.

Just need to get the wholesale sorted, and I think we could be onto a real winner after all.

by the way, keep an eye out for the latest piece of gorgeousness. The Elegance, pronounced in the french way, necklace is just stunning. Teamed with Shelby Earrings, this combination can only be a real show stopper.

Hart Centre, Fleet - Market Stall

Another successful day selling my handmade jewellery at the Hart Centre. The diversity of taste will never cease to amaze me. Interesting that a young lady persuaded her mother to buy her the Rainbow Moonstone set, with pearls in Sterling Silver. the Tutti Frutti bracelet that I made out of various leftover beads and stones attracted so much attention. The colours were so random as well.

I also sold the light rose and clear crystal necklace I'd made as a template for the mother of a groom. only silver plate, but he was so chuffed with his purchase.

Trading in the market again

Yes! We're back in the Hart Centre in Fleet Hampshire as from Saturday 01 May. It's been quiet recently both on the wedding front and also with the contemporary jewellery. Speaking to various colleagues it would appear that most people are holding back on 'luxury' items until after the election.

Talk of a hung parliament seems to be having an adverse effect on trade at the moment, but rumour has it that people will feel more confident in spending after the election has been held, and everything has settled down.

Here's to the Hart Centre, and pricing it right to increase sales.

New Jewellery making classes to come

Purple Princess Designs are exanding the classes from tiara making into introduction to jewellery. watch this space for more information and dates in the near future.

Tiara Making Classes a real success

10th April, the tiara making class was a complete success once again. So many different variations of the same design, never ceases to amaze me!

The ladies had lots of fun and laughter, and were asking for more!

Tiara Making Classes available from Purple Princess Designs, or The Bead Base, Basingstoke.

www.PurplePrincessDesigns.co.uk

Tiara Making Classes

First tiara making class, Saturday 27th March. Absolutely success in spite of four no shows. Three ladies making the Alexis tiara, all had great fun. My goodness as well... Three very different interpretations of the same idea. One in mauve pearls, one in Sunrise sparkly pearls, and one in Light Sapphire Crystals. all very lovely. what a scream. I don't remember having so much fun at work!

Thanks very much to Sue at The Bead Base, for her input and her fun personality. she's a lovely lady. good luck with everything.
x

Finally Tiara Making Classes!

At least I have managed to negotiate tiara making classes with The Bead Base, Basingstoke. First session date is 27th March, second session date is 10th April. the cost is a very reasonable £20 per head, and includes all materials to make and take away your tiara. sessions start at 1030 am. Wayy to go. very pleased with the way it's turned out.

Wedding Fair success

Well, yesterday's fair at the Barcelo in Hook went very well. There were around 78 'brides' through the door, which was good. a steady stream to start, but then tailing off in the afternoon. Fairly normal. For me it was good, recommendations from previous and current customers, and also two large commissions. slowly but surely the business grows.

Update on the Tiara Making Classes

At present the classes have had to be postponed because of illness. Not mine, thank goodness, but we do wish Sue all the best with everything. We should be resuming talks on 10th March, all being well, so I'll ensure that the blogspot is kept up to date.

Newsletter

as of last Thursday we now publish a monthly newsletter, well not strictly monthly perhaps, but certainly on a regular basis. This will inform our customers of Purple Princess activities, such as wedding fairs, new items of jewellery and dates booked for the Hart Centre, Fleet. if you would like to be included in this newsletter, just send me the details of your email address and I'll add you to the records.

Similarly, we do respect your privacy, so if you receive the newsletter, but don't want it, then just let us know and we'll remove you from the database.

WEdding Fairs

Following a very successful wedding fair on Sunday at Oakley Hall Park Hotel, I am now preparing for the next one at Barcelo Hook Hotel. This one was extremely good last year, and I received a lot of orders from it, so I'm hoping that that will be the case this year also. I will be showcasing the new Finesse range, and also taking along the Briony Necklace and Earrings which is proving to be very popular with Mothers of the Bride.

well, I'll keep everyone posted.

still finding my way around this blogger mallarkey

Well, I think I've invited a couple of friends or so to this blogging thing, so we'll see how that progresses.

On a great note though, I managed to do some excellent business last night. The Finesse Collection is proving to be very popular indeed. Set on Sterling Silver the look is polished, refined, elegant and just simply beautiful.

so getting ready for a wedding fair on Sunday, this time it's at Oakley Hall, Basingstoke. Hoping to get some orders, and maybe even sell a couple of bits and bobs.

Exciting new Products on Purple Princess

Why not check out the exciting new products on Purple Princess Designs. New photos, and new products mean that Purple Princess is looking more professional and clean.

Tiara Making Classes

Tiara Making Classes will be offered by Purple Princess Designs in conjunction with The Bead Base very soon. Details will be posted here, and also on my website, www.purpleprincessdesigns.co.uk and also on Facebook for all to see. Watch this space. 'P'

Lost in Blog land

well, for a short while there, I was totally lost in Blogland, attempting to write a blog whilst not even signed in. I used to work on a Technology HelpDesk, you'd think I'd know how to blog, but no. Anyway, Purple Princess Designs are doing ok, in spite of the IT Dept. living in the 1990s, god that's sooo last century. However, the designs themselves are very much of this century, and are looking good. The Sterling Silver chains and jump rings make a HUGE difference to the look, feel and quality of a piece, and as a result I am far more confident in selling them. If anyone would like to see them, I am next exhibiting at Oakley Hall Park Hotel, Basingstoke 21st Feb, and thereafter at Barcelo Hook Hotel, 7th March.

Purple Princess Designs now blogging

Purple Princess Designs are blogging for the first time. Updates, news and feedback will be displayed here.