Simply maritessb

AIE's End of the Year Sale

2010-12-17T15:11:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if I ever told you all... Mrs. J (my bff) and I started a Day of Coordination/Event Consulting Company. And since we had a great year we're doing this End of the Year Sale. Book us for your 2011 event (and beyond) with your deposit and you can keep the 2010 rates.

Get it while it's hot.

Click on the image or url (www.aninspiredevent.com) to be taken to our website. Which by the way was totally built by moi.

Great finds: Jo Totes - Camera bags for womens

2010-12-01T09:50:00.000-08:00

I was looking around for something new and came across this tote. I thought sooo cute... Who would've thought they were camera bags. What?

Source here

Missy - Gray

How adorable! Here is another fave:

Source here

Rose - Sugarplum

Thank you Jo Totes for thinking of us women that buy cute purses & DSLRS :)

In-sites #23: Taka Maka Blog

2010-10-18T21:40:00.000-07:00

I have worked at several companies in my lifetime and I have to say I'm fortunate enough to meet plenty of co-workers that are very ambitious outside of work. My current day job is full of go-getters. It's f-n amazing and so inspirational.

This entry is about one of my officemate named Pascal. He has a funny and informative blog. It's mostly about fashion but there are other fun discussions as well. You have to read his blog... It's the SHIZNITZ.
Check it out: www.takamakablog.com

Our Work: Jilie's 3rd Beachy Birthday

2010-10-15T16:33:00.000-07:00

When Mrs. J told me she wanted to have Jilie's (her daughter) birthday in Capitola I thought AWESOME!!! This kid has the best birthday locations. Then I went on vacation and got really sick. So sick I was suggested to have my tonsils remove. I had to be on bed rest for 10 days. Of course those 10 days ran into the birthday party date. Wahhhhh.

Oh well.. So I said I'd help with the map for the invitations. The front was designed by tonypsd. An awesome illustrator. I wrote about him a few time. He's so freaken talented.

I bought candies and gave the parents vases/jars to set up a candy buffet. I wished I was there but I got texts and compliments of the buffet. I'm so glad it look so cute. Here's the set up a few days before to show Mrs. J:

Here's the set up that Mr. & Mrs. J did. Photos by Mrs. J's sister-in-law: Rosy.

More photos to come from the pro.

Personal Spiel: Family first

2010-10-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

This year has been a busy and trying year. Busy=good. My family went through an ordeal this year. I really should stop the dramatics because in reality we're all healthy and living. It just that for over 25 + years we lived in our little 4 bedroom home on Camargo Court and last May we had to say goodbye to it.

It was heart breaking because it was the meeting place. I live in South San Francisco now, a sister lives nearby Camargo Court, and another sister lives in San Diego. If we wanted to gather it was that place we would gather. And it was THE place to hang out when we were kids. So much memories. In the end it was for the best. The economy went down and it got the best of us. But now we're stress free from the mortgage and look forward to making wiser investments this time around.

Flash forward to the end of August... I saw on Facebook Margaret Jacobsen advertising a family photo discount. A light went off in my head. What if I can get the family we are today together and start new memories? Let's do it for a happy occasion like my dad's and youngest sister's birthday and the oldest niece's first year of kindergarten (tear- happy ones I swear).

We are anxiously awaiting the proofs from the pro but we took some behind the scenes. Just for the occasion I made a little quilt for my dad as his real gift to present to him. My poor dad raised a house full of girls (including my mother :P). Eventually each one of us will get married and the family name will trickle out but I wanted him to know it'll always be a part of us no matter what.

I worked with Fabrics on Demand (great company) to print my art of a cheater quilt onto fabrics. The art are of colors and fave hobbies of every person in my immediate family.

Here are our behind the scenes shots. Photos were taken by me and Mr. Mad.

Oldest and youngest sisters

Obviously someone is more of a ham than others. Maybe because she had her wonderful purple make-up done by her Auntie Jennie of Pretty Dolled Up.

The MEN in the family

Grandparents w/their Apo's (tagalog for grandchildren)

Sheila the birthday girl

My Sisters for Life

Enjoy those precious moments. Because they go fast.

Oh and by the way... you think my family was coordinated in colors because we're good like that? I'm very detailed:

Note: color inspiration - Color inspiration for family shoot. Sunset colors is the focus Since that's dad's fave colors. Sources are from GAP, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Macy's.

Great Finds: Leather bracelets

2010-09-14T23:37:00.000-07:00

Accessories are one my favorite thing to shop for. Ok... I love to shop for anything. But I rarely wear jewelry so when I buy them I buy them with the intention to just wear that one piece. Nothing matches each other much... and I think this is normal in my world.

So this fall season my new crave is ..dun dun dun.. leather bracelets. They are sooo cute. It's edgy, yet crafty looking. One shopping day in SF I almost picked up one at Nordy... but it didn't fit right. So I'm gonna shop for one at Etsy :).

I heart Etsy... because 1) it's handmade and 2)the sellers have excellent customer service. So if a piece doesn't fit me and I ask the seller a question. Most will charge very little or none at all for custom lengthening, widening.. etc. Because they understand not everyone fit the same. :)

Check out these babies:

Peak-a-boo Turquoise Recycled Leather Cuff by Kristin Malotte

Source here

Copper sunset recycled leather wrap by Kristin Malotte

Source here

Teal green leather bracelet with a silver chain woven by SandintheSky

Source here

Light green/white leather wrap bracelet by 10 Kiaat Street

Source here

Chocolate Leather with Sterling Accent Beads by London Anaise

Source here

That's it for now folks!

PSA: Aaron Paul Juni presents BULLETPROOF

2010-07-23T09:48:00.001-07:00

Hey ya'll. I've been away recuperating. I'm slowly picking things back up. I had to have my tonsils remove. Crazy times. Never doing that again ;).

If you're in the area and need something interesting to do on Friday July 30th or Saturday July 31st, 2010 then check out this fashion show by Mrs. J's nephew. I've seen this kid's work at their family functions and he is talented. You don't want to miss out witnessing a rising star feature some of his work.

Here in his words about this event:

--------------------
First of all, its a fashion show.

Come check out my latest collection, BULLETPROOF as it makes its debut on the runway on Friday and Saturday! $5 gets you in the door and helps fund the next show in the fall!

The theme is WAR so come dressed to kill and rock that military jacket you got stashed in the closet!
...
PS: Here is a link to my company Facebook page!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aaron-Paul-Juni/134776953216605

--------------------

Check it out. Help someone achieve their dreams.

Date & Time July 30 at 8:00pm - July 31 at 8:00pm
Location
APJ Headquarters
11479 Clayton Road ZIP: 95127
San Jose, CA
RSVP
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=110809898968127

Hello...

2010-06-25T09:43:00.000-07:00

"...Is it me you're looking for????" - Lionel Richie's Hello

Sorry. I'm MIA yet again. I've been sick for a month now. Yes on my trip, my first ever to the East Coast, I was sick. I'm still sick. I finally have some energy but I'm trying to take it easy. Found out from a recent doctor's appointment I have to get my tonsils removed because they are abnormally large. This makes infection, which makes me feel yucky. So in 3 weeks I go in for my first ever surgery. Then I'm on medical leave for 10 days. YIKES! What's a girl to do.... Fine! I'll rest.

I'm posting this today just because my husband made me find it to show someone. I think it's a great way to showcase my work (planning and stationery). I have shared it in the past but... let's refresh everyone with the greatest day of my life shall we?

The videographer was C3 Videography who put together this lovely mini-recap for us. Our beautiful floral arrangements were done by our florist who was Huckleberry Karen Designs. Our wonderful day of coordinator was Lisa from Bellissima Vita Weddings who help laid out all our decor. And just because I feel like mentioning who our photographer was: Ed Pingol Photography. And this awesome venue was the Holiday Inn SFO. The venue was rocked by our fab-u-lous dj Chrismixx from Syncronized Sounds.

Enjoy !

The Mad's Wedding Video Montage from Maritess Madrinan on Vimeo.

Great Finds: Kate's Paperie

2010-05-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

I've always <3 this store. More for the beautiful paper they have. But just recently I've noticed their gifts and home goods products. Here are some of my faves.

Vintage Scissors

Source found here

Eco-Friend Picnic Set

Source found here

Half Pint Creamer

Source found here

Brooklyn Bridge Stationery Set

Source found here

I owe a lot of updates. Hopefully soon. I'll do another post tonight or tomorrow morning before I go on vacay :) to NEW YORKKKKKKKK!!!! Concrete jungle is where dreams are made of...

Personal Spiel: New Obession

2010-04-20T18:37:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late in the game but lately I've been having this crave (if you will) for HOT shoes! I dunno why. In this Style Me Pretty post they featured this beautiful sparkly wedding shoe.

Source here

I thought this got's to be Christian Louboutin. Sure enough....

Source here

Then on Neiman Marcus I found this BEAUTIFUL pair of heels I imaged myself owning someday:

Source here

Please God let me win the Lotto. This (other than a house for my husband and I) would be my ridiculous splurge.

Amen

Our Work: Life's a Witch

2010-04-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. I'm playing catch up with my blog posts. I'm so sorry I wasn't able to post this earlier.

Back in October I mentioned that we were planning a birthday party for myself, Mrs. J, and Mrs. JRose. Well it happened... last November. I didn't have a chance to recap so here we go. The last post we showed teasers of our photoshoot by Kenny Wong (partner of Rich Yee).

He did an excellent job and it was soooo fun! See more here.

And we also showed a bit of our the invites as well. Here are photos of it taken on the day of the event by Rich Yee Photography.

As favors we gave tote we personalized to keep as mementos. For most of the guests this was their first live musical so we wanted them to take home something that remind them of the show, party, and of course something that was reusable. Inside was a bottle of water to drink on the long drive home, a "San Francisco" shirt, and cd of the musical.

Now the details. Oh the details that was put up the night before by Mrs. J and I. I did the graphics, she did the floral arrangements, and we pulled the decorations together. I was up til 6 am and she drove home at 4am to go home that was an hour away. YIKES! It was worth it.

I got this idea from a website to decorate half the room "Wicked" and the other half in honor of the "Good."

The 3 of us got made over by Mrs. JRose and looked fab. Thanks Mrs. JRose!

Oh our party wasn't completed without our intimate party of 8.

Love you ladies. Thanks for being part of our special birthday celebration. Special thanks to Rich Yee Photography and partner Kenny Wong.

HAPPY FRIDAY!

2010-04-09T11:06:00.001-07:00

edited: 6/29/10

I removed the embed so everyone doesn't wonder where that music is coming from. To view: http://ecards.marchforbabies.org/GushyGram.swf?gid=D76BE4EB1DE04D2E898D611C64455B22

Click here to help me reach my goal!

PSA: I'm walking for HEALTHY BABIES!

2010-04-08T12:13:00.001-07:00

Lately I've been obsessed with wanting my own child. I recently found out I have to wait a bit and get healthier. What more of a motivation to get healthy than to do it for a cause you believe in? To my knowledge I haven't walked anything more than 5 miles. I'm so scared. I'm walking for 6.52 miles.... I don't know if I'll make it but hey... It's for a good cause right?

It'll also help me to focus on some good for someone other than myself.I'll be helping moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And it will be used to bring comfort and information to families with a baby in newborn intensive care.

If you want to make a donation, visit my personal Web page at
http://www.marchforbabies.org/sweet7355

The March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. If you would like to learn more about March for Babies, visit the Web site at marchforbabies.org.

Would you like to see what March for Babies is and why I'm walking?
Click here to see the video.

Checking in

2010-03-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't blogged in awhile. I've had a flurry of events to help prepare for. Right now I'm still planning a few more parties and getting ready for a big vacation. Oh and on top of that trying to launch some websites.

But I wanted to share a wedding website/blog I found.

I support this program wholeheartly. They reach out to those deserving people to make their dreams come true. Amazing stories of couples they are assisting with their wedding when one of them being terminally ill.

Medical expensives are tough. But when you can be given a break for one of the important day of your lives that's awesome. Kudos Wish Upon a Wedding.

Check it out. Beware tissue box must be present.

Motiviational: Layla Grace

2010-03-09T23:56:00.001-08:00

DSC_3319
Originally uploaded by Layla_Grace

"Layla went to play with the angels early this morning. Rest in peace precious Layla. 11/26/2007 - 3/9/2010".- Shanna Marsh via twitter

This amazing child has past away today. She was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. A cancer in children that's still not being acknowledge in the US.

One of my best friends, an amazing person, have brought the story of Layla Grace into our lives. She told me that there's a test that could be taken to pre-diagnosis this disease. It's mandatory in some countries but not here. It's a simple early detection $40 test, so why not make it mandatory on top of the regular check ups.

Our country runs on being reactive vs. preventative. We don't do anything until it hits us hard. The AIDS epidemic, bomb threats, and even the massive Toyota recalls are a few issues that didn’t seem that important until it was on the rise. It's time to make changes. Don't let Layla Grace die in vain. Let her story (laylagrace.org) in your life. If you're a parent, grandparent, uncle, aunt, and/or godparent YOU should read the family’s blog to see how the disease took their little girl and changed their life forever. We’re not invincible, we can go at anytime. But we shouldn’t go without a fight.

Many blessings to the family for publicizing their journey and teaching us all something we didn't know exist. We ofter our condolences to you. Continue to be strong even when you think you can't. Layla lives in all of us now. God has a bigger and better plan for her.

Thank you to the Juni family for their efforts in getting the "word" out through emails, Facebook posting, and Twitter. Please update us on the nationwide candle vigil to raise awareness on neuroblastoma.

More info: www.laylagrace.org

SPREAD THE WORD. Let's use this internet for good.

Great Finds: Urban Outfitters' Apartment therapy

2010-02-28T14:49:00.001-08:00

I was looking around for design inspiration and stumbled upon Urban Outfitters. I went from looking to their clothes to their apartment accessories. I LOVE LOVE LOVE their stuff. Look at their jewerly holders. I have one already from Etsy so I'm just going to keep drooling over these.

Spirograph Jewelry Stand

Up on a Pedestal Jewelry Stand

Filigree Jewelry Hook

Mini Coat Rack Jewelry Stand

Our Work: Malaya's Cooking Party

2010-02-23T18:02:00.000-08:00

While I was doing a mock up of my site through Wix.com I found some photos I haven't shared. Here's a quicky. A mother decided to throw her daughter a fun hand-ons party. She found this great place that held cooking parties. It's so cute! Mrs. J of An Inspired Event put together the candy buffet. I did the signs and labels. The top sign was the welcome sign.

Here are the arts I created.

And then they were cut and displayed like so.

This adorable cake was made by the mom's relative.

And look at my Goddaughter. She looks like a pro!

All images provided by Mrs. J

Cute party Malaya's mom! Happy 9th Birthday Malaya!

In-Sites # 22: Wix

2010-02-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

Source from here
I found it through my Gingerbread Clothing friend Heather Arcega.

WIX is a beta program that allows you to create a flash site. It looks so good. I'm tempted to use it. I’m just going back and forth on the idea. I have the program to make my own flash site. I even know how to use it a bit. But I'm not any expert and I have so much on my plate as it is.

So far...it's pretty awesome. I played around on it last night because I'm thinking of using it to redo my portfolio site www.maritessb.com. I created a mock page in a FEW HOURS. What's not to like?

They even have user-friendly easy to read WIXPEDIA to help with the terms. It's free if you don't mind not using your url and allowing the advertisement banner to show. Check it out for yourself. I think the only thing left is for me to research reviews on their customer service. And thanks Heather!

Blog Facelift!!!

2010-02-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

After 2 years I finally did it. WHOO HOO!!!! How does it look? I went for the spring look just because it have been glommy here in San Francisco. I love it. I hope you do too. I don't know when I'll do another facelift. I'll try to do it yearly now I know how to program it well. It only took all of my Sunday to do it.

Happy Belated Valentines day!

2010-02-17T08:13:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous 3 day weekend! I worked a lot, play a lot, and shockingly rest a lot. Last week and the one before were tough. So tough it's beyond words. I wanted to just scream. Good thing I threw myself into party planning mode. I have two events back to back. Although neither are official An Inspired Event... I'm working like it is. Why did I choose to work on a 3 day weekend from my full-time? Frankly so I can still go out and be social and not stress to the last minute. Stress and time management is something I'm working very hard on for my sanity.

More on that later. Let me sum up my Vday for you.

Woke up early and was the 2nd customers at:

Source from www.crepevine.com

Sat by the fire place

Had a delicious meal

Then we walked downtown Burlingame and went home.We bought cupcakes in Burlingame so we can meet up with my family. I missed my cute neices. What's not to miss...

Afterwards we had a very late dinner sitting at the bar at Black Angus. Sooo romantic. LOL. We enjoyed ourselves despite everywhere else was over an hour wait.

Since we had Monday off from our fulltime we woke up early and ate at Dottie's. YUM!!

We walked off our breakfast at FlowerMart.

And Stow Lake. More on that later.

An Inspired Event: Mrs. J and I's 1st for 2010

2010-02-09T12:34:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone! Whew... our 2010 is booming already. Mrs. and I shared a client that was turning 18 which is a big thing in the Filipino culture. Read about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_Debut.

To sum it up it's a "coming of age" party. I didn't have a grand one but I've set up a few and been in some of them. It's fun and probably the girl's first real party in her honor. The set up is very much like planning a wedding: expensive, stressful, etc. So it's kinda scary she has a window into that world at an early age. But it is still an experience to be had.

I was asked by the debutante to do her invitation. I haven't taken a photo of it yet but had the art file before it was completed.

The final print looks so beautiful because it was printed on metallic paper.

Mrs. J was asked to help with her centerpiece. I think she did a beautiful job.

Happy birthday C! Good luck and enjoy what the future holds. It was a pleasure working with you.

My Work: Halloween in January

2010-02-04T17:33:00.001-08:00

Ok so it's not Halloween but I didn't mention that I did my nieces costume last year. It was the first time ever I have sewn a full outfit. Hmmm... It's interesting. If I do it again next year, we are starting in July. It's a crazy mess and it didn't fit them as well as I wanted them to.

However the girls love them especially the cute accessories. I had fun doing it. Just next time I need to allow more time.

Sources: Taken by me or one of my sisters.

Great Finds: Cute Wedding video

2010-01-26T14:23:00.001-08:00

I apologize this is a lazy post. It's a crazy week ahead of me. I need to take things in stride but when things aren't going well plan I freak. So I'll go run off and find a place to hang out for my cousin's birthday this weekend...blah. But I leave you with this video of my friend and his wife. Made by Tony PSD's cousin as a gift that was presented on their wedding day. I love personal out of the box touches.

Enjoy!

My work: Happy Animal Monday

2010-01-18T09:10:00.000-08:00

Rar!!! I'm just trying to be silly because it's Monday and it's MLK but I still have work. Boo! But a quick post. I made these lovelies for a candy buffet set up by my partner at An Inspired Event Mrs. J.

She sent me a photos of the booth. I literally shrieked when I opened my mail. They are so adorable.

Image by Mrs. J

In details

Image by Mrs. J

I'm thinking of having a naming contest because I want these little ones to be a permanent character of mines. I'm seeing birthday invites, stationary, etc. What should be the prize?? I'm still not sure.

Thanks to Mrs. J for the photos and congrats on a great job! Have a great week!

Great Finds: Etsy for Valentines

2010-01-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

I started out the New Year right with diet and exercise... now I feel a little off.. I haven't touched my creative side in awhile. I need to make a list. I have so much jobs to finish and personal stuff to do. I feel I've been neglecting them. So one of my to-do is to take down my holiday stuff (he he he) and put up some Valentines stuff. So I looked around Etsy for inspiration.

Boy do I heart Etsy. The creativity level makes me kick myself in the ass for not thinking about them in the first place. Here are my faves:

Kids/Crafty Stuffs

Source

Source

Source

Source

Cards

Source

Source

Source

I love how these are all outside of the box and how some of them threw in some nice blues. I think the animal ideas are my fave. Although I like the robots too. I don't know why?

HAPPY Twenty Ten!

2010-01-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

My vision board courtesy of Polyvore.com

My 2010 Vision Board by maritessb featuring Red Herring Maternity maternity

Items in this set:
Norma Kamali Ruched halter neck swimsuit, 340 GBP
Bloomer Corset Shorts, $40
Hot Mommy Maternity T-Shirt > Hot Mommy > Hot Momma Maternity T-shirts, $29
Maternity grey stripe jersey top, 14 GBP
Christian Louboutin Spritney Suede Peep Toe, 565 GBP

I want to be fit enough to be comfortable in a bathing suit, shorts, and wear heels. I want my legs to fit a knee-high boots. I'd like to work out hard enough so when my NYC trip comes around I'm well prepared for all the walking. I want to find a hula home again. I feel so insecure about hip hop dancing so I'd like to take classes again in it again. I'm getting into the party coordinating business with my bestie. I hope my health is up to the hard work we're about to endure and love. I want my design to be successful and gain more clients this year. I want to be a mom soon. I want to mind my health so when we are blessed I'm ready.

Doing a vision board is a fun way to start the year. I have a lot of things to look foward to this year. My HR director said 2009 was a bad year because if you translate 9 in German what does it mean? I had no clue when she told me that 9 is neun prounced "non".

Let's make it a good one folks.

Happy Holidays

2009-12-28T23:11:00.001-08:00

A holiday card design by maritessb; Photo taken by ed pingol photography

Hello out there. I do plan to return to blogging, soon. I do have lots to share, I really do. It just that I've been sick for 2 months so I haven't had the motivation other than trying to figure out what is wrong with me. The reality is... I quit smoking a year ago. I did have 1 more pack (not a whole pack) 6 months ago. Now I'm really feeling the realm of the damages I have done to my lungs. My allergies are heightened, my simple cold feels never ending, and today I finally saw my doc after countless emails to get what I thought I should've gotten in the first place. Blah!

So hopefully *pray to God* I'm good as new in a week. It really sucked to be out of commission for so long. House chores, work efficiency, and socialization had to be sacrificed. I started to lose it a bit at times.

I did manage do some holiday design. The one below is for An Inspired Event's (a coordinating event business) holiday card.

Front

Back

**photos used in front card: row 1, ph 2 ed pingol photography; ph 4&5 rich yee photography. row 2, ph 2 gh kim photography. row 3, ph 1 lex tamayo. row 4, ph 1 ed pingol photography and the rest of an inspired event. card design and illustrations by maritessb.com**

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!! And may the new year bring you and your family brighter and bigger things to look forward to. Talk to you soon.

Our Wicked Birthday

2009-11-15T22:35:00.000-08:00

Wow... what a day. I need to blog when I have the photos available. We had a photographer for the night :)!

Our Work: Mrs. J and I

2009-11-13T10:14:00.000-08:00

**cheering** We love parties.. yes we do! How about you!?!?!
Here's a sneak of a Super Hero party we did last week! We're waiting for a few more photos to come in from the pro-photographer of the event.

What is "An Inspired Event"? You'll know soon.

My 2 bff's and I are throwing a very intimate dinner and musical. I'm excited. It was my first and already my favorite musical ever. I've watched musical movies... not the same as seeing it live. Here are some teasers of our party planning for you.

We took photos to decorate my place and use for out "countdown". I'll post tomorrow our "one".

I'm a big Pacquiao fan and I didn't know we scheduled it on the same day. I'm glad 8 girls are still going with us to celebrate our bdays. What a way to welcome "32" in a special, unique way. I feel extra special that they are still attending even though our boxing rep from the motherland is honoring our country that day:). Love you ladies! You're the bestest!

Things to do: Gingerbread Clothing & Ri Couture Trunk Show this Friday

2009-11-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

who: Gingerbread & Ri Couture
why:... because shopping for clothes while sippin champange is guaranteed good times!
More info below
----------------------

Gingerbread & Ri Couture is having a trunk show this friday!!!! Bring Some Friends & Forward this to everyone you know in SF! Come by and support!!!

Friday, November 6 (10pm-closing) @ Atmosphere, Northbeach (SF)

- Free general guestlist till 11 pm (For free guestlist visit www.a3atmosphere.com )
- Trunk show and designer showcase
- Champagne reception and h'ors-d'ouvres 10-11pm

Produced by Leah Hutt, this trunk show/designer showcase will feature Gingerbread Clothing (www.gingerbreadclothing.com) by Heather Guevarra Arcega,
Ri Couture (www.ricouture.com) by Heather & Janu as well as other established & up and coming local designers.
DJ Chucky Brown will be playing all your favorite hip-hop, party bangers, and house classics.

For bottle service inquiries contact Gary Vinson 415.722.2530
For large parties/bachelor/bachelorettes/birthdays ping jay@a3atmosphere.com

Personal Spiel: I love awesome costumes part I

2009-11-03T14:35:00.000-08:00

Source of image here

I love awesome costumes. I've seen some out there. I'll post when I see them. This one I saw browsing through Craftzine.com's blog. Check out the whole article for more info: http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2009/10/princess_peacock_costume.html

Happy Halloween!!

2009-10-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast this year has gone and I've been so dormant. Hopefully soon I have time to blog what has happened. I felt my life had been turned upside down for a moment. *SIGH*

But I saw the absolutely cutest thing in the 'whole wide worldz' (<---inside joke, that phrase from one of my friends once and can't resist to repeat it). Anyways, just as much as I've been neglecting blogging I've skipped a lot of reading blogs. I wanted to see what Bakerella has cooking for Halloween because on top of making costumes I want to bake cupcakes. Because... I don't have enough to do.

Anyways I went back a few post after reading her Halloween treat instructions and saw the cutest proposal story EVER. Ok, not ever, but pretty close. I love big, grandeur proposal and this takes the cake. Literally.

Read the proposal here then the whole story and results here. And here's the snippet:

You could give these cake pops for:

An engagement party
A wedding shower
Wedding favors
You could even propose with them
Imagine how cute they would be with some sweet little tags.

Okay, forget imagining… let me just show you.

All images and quotes from here.

I literally had tears. I'm impress he really does know his gal. Bakerella you're a genius as always!

Have a HAPPY and SAFE Halloween and weekend folks!

Vacation 2009: Road Trip

2009-10-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

Haloo!!!! We've recently took a road trip to Las Vegas and Disneyland. I haven't gone to Disneyland since Mr. Mad and I got together. We totally took advantage of the "Just Married" and "Birthday" button. We wore it all day. It was so cool. We got greetings everywhere we went.

I wanted to share a few photos we got from our Disney's Photopass. It's a great new service they have there. The images are expensive but at least if you want good photos of your group without asking strangers to hold your camera now you can. There are these photographers that scope the common areas family want group photos of. You give them your Photopass, they take the photos, then scan your card. You sign on their website and there are all your images. It's so cool. As you can tell I haven't gone in a really long time.

Enjoy!

Things to do: October Art Explosion's Open Studios

2009-10-06T21:48:00.001-07:00

You have to check it out at least once:

Art Explosion's Open Studios
Featuring Gingerbread Clothing by Heather Guevarra Arcega
& over 100 other artists

FRIDAY OCT 9th 7-11pm
SATURDAY OCT 10th 11am-6p
SUNDAY OCT 11th 11am-6pm

744 Alabama Street
Studio #229 2nd Floor
San Francisco, CA 94110

Open studio shows are always a unique and exciting opportunity and this fall AE will be putting on the biggest show we have ever done. There will be over 135 artists showing work from their studios this October. You can see and purchase many different kinds of art, meet the artists who created the art and see where and how they work. These warehouse shows offer a great opportunity to explore the local mission art scene and buy original art work directly from the artists. Please come by and check it out!

Free Admission
Free Refreshments

****

Update

2009-09-28T12:32:00.001-07:00

Hello! I'm on vacation refreshing. It
Has been trying times. From a power
outage wedding to two funerals -yeah that crazy. So I'm deciding to get out with my husband and his relatives on a road trip. I hope everyone is well and healthy. Take care and I'll write more soon!

Giveaway Opportunity!

2009-09-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Source of image here

I wanted to let you know Ati of Gekd Boutique have notified me that she's giving away this beautiful necklace pendant. It's called the Maori green jade Hei Toki. Perfect for gifts for grooms, fathers, etc. All you have to do is go to her blog to find out how: http://gekd.wordpress.com. Check it out soon. This ends Oct 4th, 5pm PST.

I hope everyone's doing well. I've become a dormant blogger. Bad blogger. I'll pick up soon. We have a wedding this weekend :). Baby brother in law is getting hitched! So busy busy. I'll post soon on some design I worked on.

Things to do: Art Opening

2009-09-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

Two events not to miss. They were sent and will be featuring my friend the beautiful Heather Guevarra Arcega

Art Explosion Open Studios
Summer Art Series
Reception
Friday September 11th 7-10pm
744 Alabama St Studio #229
Free Admission Free Refreshments

Come visit our artists at their open studios shows on select Fridays this summer. Over 100 artists will open their studios and join the featured artists showing in the main gallery. Find great deals on local artists paintings, jewelry, fashion, photography and more!

Help us celebrate 15 years of showing art in San Francisco.

Sept 11, 2009 Friday 7-10pm
Gingerbread Open Studios
744 Alabama Street
Studio #229 2nd Floor
SF, CA 94132

Please join us for an open studio this Friday, September 11th from 7:00pm -10:00pm.

Our studio is in the Art Explosion building which is open to the public on select Fridays to showcase their artists. For those of you who missed our studio opening come on by and check out our new spot. For those of you who came to it, come on by and do it all over again!
Hope to see you soon!

oxox Heather
www.gingerbreadclothing.com

--------------------------------------

Sept 19th, 2009
Runway Confessions Fashion Show
*Featuring Gingerbread Clothing by Heather Guevarra Arcega
September 19th, 2009
6:30 pm to 9:00pm
Jason’s Restaurant in Greenbrae, CA.

Elégance Event Planners would like to invite you to participate in the first annual Runway Confessions 2009. Runway Confessions is not an ordinary fashion show that you see every season. Elégance Event Planners, founded in New York, brings the elegant touch of international cultures, customs, and grandeur of finesse quality like no other event planner. Tori J. Cuddigan, founder and world renowned interior designer and event planner, has planned, coordinated, and executed hundreds of expositions, events, fashion shows, and galas around the world. Several of these events include and are not limited to famous international fashion designers, celebrities, and institutes.

This benefit will contribute to providing scholarships to the local student designers to further their education in the fashion industry and/or help them start a new line of fashion wear. What does this mean? Elégance Event Planners is pleased to present local top fashion student designers from the bay area. These student fashion designers have specifically tailored their lines for this fashion show and can’t wait to see their models strut their creations on the runway. You will also have the opportunity to purchase the designers’ line at a silent auction after the show.

The date for this fashion show is on September 19th, 2009 from 6:30 pm to 9:00pm at Jason’s Restaurant in Greenbrae, CA. This fashion show will be first in its class and in the history of Marin County. What makes this different from other fashion shows that have taken place? First of all, this is a cocktail reception fashion show. Jason’s Restaurant has made an exquisite custom made menu for this show. If you already love their menu… wait till see the menu for the show.

The cocktail reception will be begin at 6:30pm and the fashion show will be at 7:30pm. After the fashion show, Jason’s Restaurant will open a section where you can show your moves and dance the night away!

Reserve your ticket(s) now!!!!!!!!!! Space is limited!

www.elegancebytcdesigners.com/events.html

Motivational Monday: No limits

2009-09-08T00:05:00.001-07:00

I am amazed when Passion posted this on Twitter. I've always admired Passion (a known Vblogger on youtube.com) for his singing ability and started to follow him. This artist that made an portrait of Passion is DOKNOCK of Supercrew (ABDC Champions Season 2). I love how he captured the whole session in a video. Makes it more personal I think. And and I like how this goes to show you that you aren't limited by what people know you for.

Motivational Monday: Your Dreams

2009-08-31T05:48:00.000-07:00

It takes courage to show your dreams to someone else.

- Erma Bombeck

So true. I have realized something really big lately. I've had always been afraid of not pleasing everyone. I have to stop that and keep working hard. If people don't like it they can move on. Someone will admire my work, and one day I'll believe in my worth.

Things to do: Gingerbread Studio & Ri Couture Studio Opening

2009-08-11T13:14:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't been writing lately. It's been crazy. I've been making life choices as far as who I am and who I want to be. It's not career choices. It's more physically and mentally. I'll explain soon. But I did want to share something I received from my friend that was featured in the fashion show (see previous post):

Gingerbread Clothing and Ri Couture are having a studio opening this Friday August 14th from 7:00-10:00pm.

We are in the Art Explosion open studio showcase. We would love meet other artists as well as show our friends and family our new work space.
Come by, check out both my lines, and have a sip or two of wine.
Let's celebrate together the opening of the Gingerbread Clothing & Ri Couture Studio.

oxox Heather

Art Explosion Open Studios

Summer Art Series

Reception

Friday Aug. 14th 7-10pm

744 Alabama St Studio #229 (2nd Floor)
Free Admission Free Refreshments

Come visit our artists at their open studios shows on select Fridays

this summer. Over 100 artists will open their studios and join the

featured artists showing in the main gallery. Find great deals on

local artists paintings, jewelry, fashion, photography and more!

Help us celebrate 15 years of showing art in San Francisco.

---------

Here's one example of her dress.

Image source provided by http://www.gingerbreadclothing.com/

Check out her site: http://www.gingerbreadclothing.com/. I will be featuring my fave/inspirational designers on my new blog layout. She's the first to be on it.:)

Things to do: APAture Runway III

2009-07-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday, August 8, 7:30pm - 10:30pm
SOMArts Cultural Center
934 Brannan St., SF

Attention local fashionistas – Be the first to experience fresh and eclectic collections from 10 up-and-coming fashion designers at APAture Runway III, featuring LA-based eco-couture designer Linda Wong of The Battalion.
Our lineup of emerging Asian American designers includes Heather Guevarra (Gingerbread Clothing), Amy Ho, Faithy Leong, Jarvinia Li, I Shan Liou, Loretta K Nguyen (fiftyseven-thirtythree), Erica Varize (Evarize), Brian Yee (Bok Choy Apparel), and Shani Solomon (MXW). Take home clothes hot off the runway by bidding in our live auction of designers goods!
All proceeds benefit KSW’s 11th annual APAture, a multidisciplinary arts festival of emerging Asian Pacific American artists, happening September 17-26.

Admission: $10-20 sliding scale at the door or $8 in advance at www.brownpapertickets.com

APAture Runway III is sponsored in part by SOMArts Cultural Center, FLINC and ProvoCraft.

Editorial Note: One of the designer is a personal friend of mines I met through my current employer:Heather Guevarra (Gingerbread Clothing). We are very proud of her since she has left the company to pursue her own clothing line. She's one to watch and will be going places. You don't want to miss her contribution to the show.

Personal Spiel: 201st entry and Academy of Art

2009-07-23T23:09:00.000-07:00

Not everyone was raised with a college fund. I remember when asking my mother about going to school in Hawaii and her response "How are you going to pay for it?" I couldn't believe what I heard. I thought once you have kids you start a college trust, etc.

So I worked and couldn't figure out what to do college wise. I went to a community college off and on. Eventually I went to a vocational school and obtained my AA in Business Administration. Yay I finished. But I went on and tried my hardest to get my BS in Business. After several failed attempts.. I realize I like the data entry portion and some of the technology background (I minored in MIS) and was good at it. After awhile I realize I LOVE graphic design. It wasn't until after my wedding I felt it's something I want to pursue. I maybe late in the game but I'm going to try.

SO I blogged before about Academy of Art giving away FREE summer workshop. I took 3 of those classes. I have to say my favorite was Graphic Arts. Go figure. Our 3 days together my teacher came up with a syllabus revolving reinventing a band/musical artist's logo and album. This project touches on how to develop and polish your idea, work with type, and learn about layout.

We started with our mood board. I did ok on it. Some people didn't get it. But I did sooo much better in my logo and album cover. I need to fix my photoshop skills but the concept and layout was nailed.

Here is the original album:

Source of image here

The inspiration of the logo:

Source of image here

:) I'm very happy. And what a great 201st blog entry by sharing something I acomplished.

My work: My Wedding Monogram

2009-07-22T21:46:00.001-07:00

Once a upon a time I got compliments of our wedding monogram. For those who doesn't know the purpose it's basically a logo. The logo either represents the couple, their wedding theme, or usually a collaboration of the couple and theme.

I was reading http://logodesignerblog.com/ and I was so proud to see this quote:

“In logo design, a circle is usually used to convey stability and stasis. It’s the reassuring shape that says, “we’re here, we’re settled, we’re steady, you can trust us.” - John McWade.

I like ours alot. I did two color difference. one is the full color and the other is a 1 color for stamps or gocco. "M" represents our married last name. The flower is a silhouette I made tracing an orchid. Then of course our first name below it and the colors represented the two tone of browns we used for our wedding theme. It's simple and easy to replicate big and small. It took me several drafts to get it right but it's worth it.

Last day to vote.

2009-07-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

Please pick me:

"Pattern1"

Vote here

Here's the post it was featured on: click here. Thanks for your support.

Motivational Monday: I'm appreciative of little acomplishments

2009-07-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

I feel like I'm on cloud 9. Don't get me wrong my life isn't without drama nor challenges now that great things have been happening. I think even if you're in the right direction the other side of things will fall further and further away cause syou to finally let go. It's hard to let go of the comfort way of life.

So two weeks ago I saw NKOTB in concert again. Two years in a row. I was starting to regret it but end up having a fantastic time. Who you go with totally makes the events so much more fun. I met Jabbawockeez, my favorite winners of MTV's America's Best Dance Crew. And I danced the whole night. I went with 7 gfs and at time I felt NKOTB was singing to me the whole time.

The classes are interesting and I'm learning ALOT. It's a bit of a challenge with work. Having an inconvenient schedule to the group isn't fair. But we're trying our best to make up for it working OT on the weekends.

Last great thing... I've attended the Renegade Craft Fair in SF yesterday. WOW. What an amazing time of shoping and gazing at true artists' works. My friends and I were so in awed of the details, displays, and works of these people. I was turning into pro-Handmade but I think this pushed me to the edge. Although I'd love to wear indie made clothes... most of the fit doesn't apply to plus sizers. So I have to resort to store made products. Eventually I'm hoping to learn how to create my own pattern and make my own clothes for the mean time. It was an inspiring show overall.

SIGH! I feel like I'm learning a lot about myself, my enviroment, and the path I want to go. I'm so grateful for the experiences - the good and the bad side of it. Hopefully you all can find that. It's refreshing to feel a little at peace in this world of chaos.

Don't forget to vote for me. http://blog.spoonflower.com/

Pattern 1 is my entry.

Personal Spiel: My designed was picked by Spoonflower!

2009-07-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

A design by Maritessb

I was excited to hear that Spoonflower (a website you can custom fabric more info here) picked my design for this week's contest. Yesterday when I received the email... I was like what is this new newsletter format for the weekly contest. It read:

Designer,

I'm just sending you a quick heads-up that we're planning to run your design in the Spoonflower contest going out this week. If you have any questions, please let me know.

The competing designs will be:

http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/19189
http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/4525
http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/21348
http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/25053
http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/23060
http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/22149

Thank you very much for participating!

Best,
Stephen Fraser
Spoonflower

It took me a good 5 minutes to understand. Yay!!! Here's my entry: http://www.spoonflower.com/explore/23060

Here's how the fabric look printed.. Don't mind the bad yellow cast on the photo. I was trying to make a light box and totally failed.

That is my week's high. Even though I haven't won... I am glad to picked among the submitters. As they say, "It's an honor of just being nominated." But it couldn't have come at better time. Just when I was feeling bummed about dropping a class, missing my family and friends, and working overtime like crazy the smallest reward feels so significance. Thank you Spoonflower.

Motivational Monday: I need fitness in my life

2009-07-13T06:51:00.001-07:00

Everyone tells us to "stay motivated." Our friends, our co-workers, our relatives say keep going, don't quit. Sometimes, though, you ask, "Why? Why try my hardest when it ends in disappointment? Why go through something when it's going to hurt? Why?

Because it's going to be different this time! Because you can't accomplish anything that you give up on. Disappointments and failures happen to everyone. The difference between those who reach their goals and those who don't is staying motivated. If you're motivated, you'll keep going. If you keep going, eventually you'll reach your goal."

-Excerpt from Sparkspeople's Newsletter article "9 Hidden Reasons to Stay Motivated
Rediscover Your Drive" click for article here.

I had to drop a class. 5 classes were a lot even if it was for a short amount of time. 3 of the classes weren’t my part of my original plan but it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss out on. If I didn't have them on my shoulders I wouldn't be stressed out. I've been eating poorly.. not working out... sleeping less. So I've decided to take it next quarter. I did put a lot of work into it. But I've decided to try to put exercise and eating right a priority. I have a competition with my friends to win. :)

Why has this all of the sudden surfaced. I was looking through my photos for an art project and I haven't found 1 good photo of me. It's depressing. I need to nip that feeling in the bud.

Happy Monday.

Vacation 2009 #4 & #5

2009-07-07T22:13:00.000-07:00

Continuing our Oahu 2009

Day 4 Driving All Over East Oahu

Oh man I was sore, sore, and sore from Day 3!! So we kinda took easy. We did our drive around the east side of the island starting with an AWESOME breakfast at Boots and Kimo's in Kailua.

This is the breakfast place to be! In fact... I think we're going to eat there everyday next time we stay in Oahu.

Then we drove by Lanikai Beach, Waimanalo, & Hawaii Kai. In the neighborhood of Lanikai we saw a "Lost Turtle" sign. I thought that was the cutest thing but Mr. Mad wasn't slowing down for me to take a photo of it.

We stopped in Hawaii Kai's Starbucks to hang out until Ross and Costco was scheduled to open so we can buy souvenirs there.

Oahu trip tip... never buy much gifts near Waikiki Beach. Soooo expensive. Stick to my recommendations and ask locals as well. After our drive we went back to the hotel and rest.

After a long nap and relaxation we walked down Lewers St. for dinner and to see what was new to us Waikiki Beachwalk for Cheeseburger in Paradise. Food was ok... but service was slow for no one being there. I mean a group came in after us and got served their drink. We didn't even receive a menu after being seated. Mr. Mad was so angry he started to time them. After 30 mins you'd think we would've left. But then the waitress came and she was apologetic so we stayed..Then to the hotel to sleep.

Day 5 More Souvenir Shopping and Beach Day

We started off with a light breakfast downstairs of our hotel. We received our car rental and headed straight to Aloha Stadium for the Swap Meet. My husband would prefer not to go there lol. But this is the cheapest I've found to buy gifts for my family. The first year we went to Oahu together I spent $300 and circled the stadium 3 times in 5 hours. He was toasted, and I mean burnt to the crisp. This year our visit was quick because it was my 4th time and I think I've finally mastered the Swap Meet. My tip: every quarter of the way is the same kind of items, the price difference between the vendors are not much of a difference, and make a list before going. Mr. Mad was Mr. Happy by the time we left because we've spent under 1 hour there. He he he.

Afterwards we went to Walmart to get a few things for our beach day and eat lunch at L&L barbecue. There are several of chains in California but we hardly eat it. For some reason Hawaiian local chains are sooo much better in Hawaii. We've been to several in Oahu and Big Island and hands down... we cannot complain.

We went back to the hotel and rested before our walk to Waikiki beach. It was too windy for both of us to be in the water at one time. We didn't bring any valuables in order to swim with each other but our towels and mats were going all crazy with the wind. It's ok... I was loving the ocean as I am a water baby. Mr. Mad was ok that I took longer than him because he doesn't enjoy the waters as much. We had a boring lunch and a so-so dinner at Ala Moana Mall and slept early so we can pack early for our last day. *sad face*

One more day to report and we're done. Yay for almost completing a feature.
To see more photos on Day 4 and 5 click here.

Motivational Monday:Never give up

2009-07-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning.

- Bill Gates

As discouraging as it can be when you have unhappy customers don't let them down. Learn from that experience and grow. Happy Monday folks!

Vacation 2009 #3

2009-07-01T13:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Shell and Gekd. Two great bloggers I've met. They are both aspiring women.Both of their sites are very informative, creative, and you can tell they both have heart of gold. Thank you so much for your kind words. The support from others has been overwhelming. It feels like it reconfirms my decision to chase after my dream. Things are turning up. It's a lot of work but I'll get there.

So... in light of the holiday weekend I'm going to finally wrap up my Hawaii trip. None of these photos are processed. But husband and I were testing our photo taking ability these days so I believe they look decent enough to share. If you want to read about Day 1 click here or Day 2 click here.

Day #3 WALKING all over Waikiki

Or what it felt like. We walked from our hotel to Shorebird at the Outrigger for their 2 for 1 buffet. Then we walked to the plank that was outside the restaurant for photo opportunity. Afterwards we walked to the International Market Place and had Dole Whip. It's basically a pineapple yogurt treat that's made with Dole pineapples. Then walk up and down Waikiki beach before retreating back to our hotel to rest.

We drove to Ala Moana mall for lunch and shopping. This trip didn’t feel complete if I didn't stop here. I never really buy anything but I love this mall to walk. It's an outdoor mall with shades. Then we checked out Fabric Mart. Hawaiian fabric for CHEAP! Cute ones too! We hit up Wal-mart for our 4th time then returned to our hotel to rest.

For dinner we hit up Puka Dog by walking there. Oh boy... the mango relish and guava mustard is to die for. If you ever go Oahu or Maui.. it's treat. Expensive for hot dogs but ONO-licious.

For more photos of our walking journey click here

Motivational Monday: Going for the gold

2009-06-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

In the long run men hit only what they aim at. Therefore, though they should fail immediately, they had better aim at something high.

- Henry David Thoreau

If you follow my tweets you would know I got in the Academy of Art’s free workshop program. My July is booked with workshops and school. I have a few events to attend but anymore I have to say no to them. Although I'd love to see my family and friends and have a good time I have to focus on me. I have moved an hour away from the friends and family. It wasn't intentional. This is where my husband and I agreed to live due to his job. I started working here myself and been here for 1.5 year. It was difficult because I was used to stepping out on to my porch and immediately knowing my environment. I knew the temperature well, grew up with my neighbors, and my friends were a 2 to 20 minutes drive. My sister was in the next room and the other sister a 5 min walk. I saw my nieces every other day and my parents everyday. It was a lot of adjustments for me: new job, new city, and new husband. But I got used to it.

This year I’ve decided since my family and friends are an hour away to take advantage of the quiet time and get something accomplished for myself for a change. I’m always helping people. I haven’t done much for myself in a long time. I always joke I’m the soccer mom with no kids. One day I heard myself say it for the 100th time and thought… wow that’s a little sad. Most people without kids took advantage of the time to either throw themselves in work, workouts, or school. And for 1 year I have done none of that. So as of last week I’m in school and I got accepted into the Academy of Art’s free workshop program. I’ll be attacking the gym as well. Socializing will be on the backburner until I can get my act into a routine.

Personal Spiel: Remembrance

2009-06-26T13:26:00.000-07:00

Source of image here

Yes we all know the King of Pop has gone. I just wanted to share a few of my memories of his music. My fave station was playing all request of MJ's yesterday afternoon. Made me tear as I recall the memories.

"Rock with You" - I heard this song over and over again as I work on one of my bff's slide show for her boyfriend. I thought what a great song to include for their couple's montage. Fun, light, and it's so them.

"I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus" - I used to play my 45's as I clean my bedroom for our family party screaming this song. It’s my official song of Christmas.

"You Are Not Alone" - I had a male bff back in high school. This song was dedicated to him. Sooo cheesy but at the time I was sooo in love with him. HA HA HA!

"Living Off the Wall" - I had a phase in life where I hit up a club every week and party until dawn. When a house dj played this song in his mix it was my official going out song.

"Man In the Mirror" - This is the song when I first heard it I was amaze. This is the best song of Michael.

"Billie Jean" - My fave to sing when I was child. I don't know why.

"Thriller" - The video special on MTV... I remember being in a small room with my cousins at my Great Aunt's and Great Uncle's house (both deseased as well) waiting to eat bbq. I didn't know it was a movie special or something and thought this was the longest video in my life. It was all entertaining of course. He he he.

I can go on. His music chronologies with my life. Thank you Michael Jackson. Your talent and gift had made us fall in love, get through heartaches, enjoy life, and appreciate it. May you RIP now.

Have a great weekend everyone. Just because we lost very influential people this month we haven't lost the inspiration they have given the world.

Source of David Carradine's image here, of Ed McMahon's image here, and Farrah Fawcett's image here

Latest Work: Gift of Time For You

2009-06-24T10:30:00.001-07:00

Here's a sample of my latest work. I’ve been helping with business logos. One of my recent client is Elena from Gift of Time. It’s her company where she’ll do various personal assistant tasks to save her clients time. Here is a brief description she gave me to start her design brief:

I will be helping people with things they don't have time to do themselves on an everyday basis: running errands, picking up and dropping off items. While people are away I would walk their dogs, water their plants, house sit, and even wait for PG&E, Fed Ex, etc. I will be helping elderly with items they can't do on their own. Take them to pick up prescriptions, groceries, to and from appointments, helping do things around their house. Pick up and drop off of kids to and from day care, school, after school activities. Pick up and drop off of pets to and from the vet or bathing sessions.

The image above was the first draft I had made. She didn’t set any requirements and/or color. I had total freedom of the design. Here is the finished product she had chosen.

If you're interested in her services let me know. I do know her personally and will send you her way. I strongly recommend her. She very dedicated and will provide great customer service.

Motivational Monday: In spirit of Father's Day (single mother included) and going back to school.

2009-06-22T09:26:00.000-07:00

Quote of the week:

The little reed, bending to the force of the wind, soon stood upright again when the storm had passed over.

- Aesop

This quote is really for everyone but it's inspired by great dads and single moms (who are both the fathers and mothers to their children). It's also inspired by me because I'm going back to school. Starting today at the community college up my street I am starting off with two classes. And hopefully in a few days I find out if I also made the application for Academy of Art's free summer workshop. Did you hear about it? It's pretty awesome. I maybe hurting my chances by telling a few people about it but apply today.

For more info:

http://www.academyart.edu/workshops

Featured Friday: Fathers and Happy Belated Birthday Mom

2009-06-19T10:38:00.000-07:00

Source of image here

Happy Friday and early Father's Day! I hope you all have something nice to do for dad this weekend. I'm getting him a T-shirt designed by my friend from high school. This is the shirt I'm getting.

Source of image here

Isn't it the perfect father's day gift. I spoke of my friend TonyPSD before, his blog here. I bought one for myself a few weeks back and I'd thought since we're Manny Pacquiao fans (what Filipino isn't) to get him one. Plus the phrase is perfect for my dad too. Yay for dad!

My father's the best because he was the soccer mom growing up. Worked two jobs if need, taught us all to drive, etc. I know I've mentioned what an awesome dad he is in a past post but I just want to restate it.

My mom's cool too. LOL. She recently moved back from the Philippines so it's great to see her close to my nieces. She just had a birthday over a week ago and I made these. It's a little rough since it's my first time. I'll post better photos when I can sit down and sort all my photos. And I have tons of photos to share.

Image taken by my iphone

I'd like to also wish my friends, uncles, grandfathers, funny father-in-law, and brother-in-law a Happy Father's day as well. I'm so blessed to be surrounded by the best dads. They are AWESOME. Take care everyone. Have the best weekend.

Latest Work: Crazy Crafters

2009-06-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

Logo created by maritessb

All of my friends loves to crafts. If you have an event and need help all that can be will be there in a jiffy.

Mrs. J, J-rose, and I decided to take what we love to do a step further. If you follow me on Facebook and Twitter you would know that we were selling leis for graduations. Since high school we've learned to make leis. Anyone can but sometimes you may not have the time and tools and that's where we come in.

Leis are seasonal and occasional to grads and weddings as it offers love and luck. But that is not what we are all about. We sew too. So keep an out for what is next with us on our blog: ccrafters.blogspot.com.

Motivational Monday: Biggest Loser Challenge

2009-06-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

My bff J Rose came up with a fantastic idea to motivate people in our group to keep active. She and I started brainstorming the rules and regulation. We do a weigh in, then take the initial fee of $20, and attend a weekly challenge where if you won you are waived the weekly $5 fee.

Now after the first weigh we notice a lack of interest in the competition so... We changed up the rules a bit. Weekly challenges turned in to "come if you like just for fun." I didn't attend the first one because of work but I was present for the second one yesterday and it was so fun. We played volleyball, HORSE, and 3 on 3 half court bball. We are off next week for Father's day but I suggested kickball for the following week. It's awesome working out with great friends bringing back the retro P.E. activities. Find your fun in fitness like we did. You'll find it very motivating.

In-Sites # 22: [serendipity]

2009-06-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

I'm a horrible blogger. I've been busy I promise. I haven't posted in awhile but will if I want to keep the readers I do have. It's been so insane. I was so sad realizing I haven't been able to read anyone else's blog as well. Blog reading is the best. However with graduations around the corner, wedding in bloom, and everyone's starting their businesses it's been a whirlwind trying to get designs out for those.

Anyways I can go on and I probably will tomorrow. But today I received an email from Silhouette and it directed me to a Kerri Bradford's blog [serendipity]. She's an insanely creative scrapbook diecutter designer... I believe. Not so sure what exactly she does. I have skimmed through her blog and amazed with the stuff in it. There are so much great posts in it. If you're ever looking for inspiration check it out: click here.

My scrapbooking style is creative but minimalist. How cute are these things she came up with.

Source of photo click here

Source of photo click here

Source of photo click here

Source of photo click here

YAY! Tomorrow's Friday.

Update: Website up!

2009-05-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to announce my site is up. It still needs minor tweaking and the gallery still needs contents but it's up. I want this site to be primarily my portfolio and show the progression of my work. But it'll also serve for a place for people to request custom work.

I can't wait to add on to my portfolio. Check it out: www.maritessb.com

UPDATE: Busy as a Bee!

2009-05-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

I have to apologize once again. The whirlwind of activities have happened the last few weeks and it's not stopping.

As you know my wedding anniversary vacation set me back at work a bit and it doesn't help that we had to shorten last week to move offices. We couldn't work remotely at home because they had to shut down our server, re-install our station, etc. Which probably mean I should've had time to update. Yah.. Um...

At home last week I was running around like a mad man trying to figure out where to print my invitations and designed some works that were in the queue. As a few fellow friendly designers have told me you kinda have to make your rounds to get comfortable with a company. What an experience getting quote and reading past customer's reviews. I found one but they are more geared towards big corporation being in the heart of SF's SOMA district. However they took my job with giving me a break with a discount and so far have been very helpful. Lee at BPS Reprographics' sales department is great. I may talk to them for future jobs. We'll see. I haven't received the full products nor know the total cost of the work. I need to send it out the invitations this week. Yikes. I'll update the service after the job is done with.

And those are just the two major things that had happened. Now I'm working on graduation leis to sell at high school graduations. We're doing candy leis, attempting to make ribbon leis (the materials are really expensive), and working on my online portfolio. So STAY TUNED!

Just when you just thought I was busy enough soon I will be a college student again. I’m going part-time only to get that degree in design. So I can follow my dreams.

I'll try to post tomorrow again. If not... please excuse me. As you can see... I'm definitely 1 BUSY bee. I hope all is well with everyone.

Things to do Tuesday: DIY Floral workshop!

2009-05-19T08:58:00.000-07:00

Brides and friends join the Huckleberry Karen workshop and learn how to DIY your bouquets and boutonnieres. See the attached flyer and the information below. The floral instructor is wonderful because she was my very own floral designer for my wedding. I hear nothing but good things about this workshop. Quickly reserve your seats today.

Huckleberry Karen Designs is hosting a workshop! Here are the details.
Date: Sunday, June 14, 2009
Time: 10am-12:30pm
Location: Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA
For more information or to register you can email Karen at : huckleberrykarendesigns@gmail.com

My Work: Eric and Jen

2009-05-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

My brother-in-law is getting married this coming September. We call it the reenactment of our wedding but with only a more trimmer and stylish couple. They have most of our vendors working for their wedding which is AWESOME!

Eric recently asked me to do some monogram to compliment their invitations. From when Jen and I were trying to go over her invitation ideas that she wanted to pursue I got a sense that this is going to be a very classic traditional wedding. I threw in some fun patterns inspired by their love of BURBERRY.

Motivational Mondays: Momma's day

2009-05-11T12:18:00.000-07:00

There's an inspiring quote from Maria Shriver over the weekend regarding mother's day.

"On this day, go beyond the gift-giving & flowers & look at your mother's life, search her soul, consider her spirit & celebrate it."

By the way. I am on twitter. Add me: Madbrave

HAPPY MONDAY EVERYONE!

The happiest of all Fridays!!!!!

2009-05-08T08:28:00.001-07:00

My fave: NKOTB and Jabawockees

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Have a good weekend everyone! AND happy MOTHER's day to: MY MOM, my sister Jen, my mother in law, my aunts: Gigi, Lori (first time), Lita, Myrna, Myrna (#20, Sandy, Julie, Juling, Jane, Couching, and many more, my grandmothers (RIP): Sophing & Evangaline, and BFF'S: Jennie Rose, Jackie, Cristine, Genessa, Rosalyn, Rosemarie, Lea, Frida, Elena, and Kristine.

My work: J&L

2009-05-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

I changed the name and address to protect my client. They aren't really clients, they are my friend's sister. So I wanted to do it as a favor for him and his girlfriend because in the short time I knew him he painted a fabulous portrait of my husband and I.

I'm still working on 1 more idea but here are my faves so far:

My work: Ally's 1st bday

2009-05-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

Oh I've been a bad blogger. Sorry. I've been busy! Sewing, preparing my neice's bday party, and work's been insane. Here's a few images to occupy some blog space. I illustrated a birthday logo for Ally (my neice/goddaughter). And I made dressed for both of my neices: Abby and Ally.

Please don't hate me.

Motivational Monday: Kids

2009-04-27T11:14:00.001-07:00

Whether they are yours, your neice/nephew, godchildren, friends'... if they adore you or look up to you I think it's a great motivation to keep going.

Those two beautiful young ladies are my neices I saw last Saturday. My sister sent the photos to me via twitter.

Vacation 2009 Day#2

2009-04-23T06:45:00.000-07:00

So here goes Day 2
We started the day with a lot of anticipation. You'll see why later.

So we started the day with malasadas at Leonard's.

At first glimpse of this sign sent a glimmer of hope returning back to me. I haven't had malasadas in 2 years!!!!!! Malasadas are known as Portuguese fried pastry that became a Hawaiian past time since the 1800's. Last time I had them was at the Big Island of Hawaii and it was nothing compared to Leonard's dobash (chocolate pudding filled malasadas). We picked some extras for our friends.

It took me 2 months to deny, DENY! I heard several "The Pingols are going to be in Hawaii are you going to take your aftershoot/TTD photos?" My response "oh no...I'm sure they are there to vacation." Or "Weren't you supposed to go in August to Oahu? Why the change of plans?" My response "It's our anniversary." I cannot LIE. Some people are natural at white lies. I on the other hand... can't hide expression, what I'm thinking, etc. So other than celebrating our 1st anniversary... we went to take our wedding aftershoot. There couldn't be a perfect time. It was fate actually. We didn't know what to do for anniversary and couldn't find a local SF area to take those photos. When we saw them twittering about their trip... It was our answer. To us nothing beats Oahu.

Source of image and for more click here

We took them at La'ie Point. A gem in a quiet town that's predominately Mormons. Although it was the first we have heard of this place there seems to be a lot of tourists... I do mean a lot. Try putting a dress on in this public place and a big school bus driving up behind us. One passenger of the bus (a teenage girl) asked her mother if they were here for a wedding...

This amazing point.. was from "Forgetting Sarah Marshall". It's the scene where Jason Segel's character's was challenged by his love interest "Quit crying like a baby and jump." She cliff jump into the ocean. He tries to follow after her and ends up dangling in the vines. Yup. The very same spot. So cool. Thanks Ed and Monica!

Then we completed the day with a scenic ride back to Waikiki through North Shore. We saw the jumping rock in Waimea, stopped at Matsumoto's for shaved ice, drove past pineapple Dole plantation, and chased rainbows. What a perfect day.

More photos here

Vacation 2009 #1

2009-04-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

I'd thought I share some photos from our vacation with brief editorials on what we did.

As you know in my previous post we started off with an anniversary party at a lounge Mr. Mad dj's at: Azuli in San Mateo. We totally partied like it was 1999 and got home around 1am. Luckily we were packed because we our flight was at 7am. It was another fun filled night and from what I heard the most attendance ever. I would like to say it had to do with my group of friends but in reality there weren’t much of us. LOL. I'd say there were about 20 of us. Check out our guests:

Dj Ren's Debut

My Family

My Girls

My MjC Girls

Source of image here

Day 1
We arrived at Honolulu, Oahu, HI around 11am. We picked up our rental and went straight to our first destination: St. Germain's (the former Dee Lite's Bakery). I got a piece of guava cake. The cake itself was light and fluffy and yummy. The buttercream was really sweet but the guava jam at the top of the buttercream was sooo yummy. Sorry no photo. It was a beautiful pick cake. I heart pink.

Then we said LUNCH time and arrival day always qualifies for ZIPPY's. Zippy's almost like their Denny's but with a fast food ordering system. Looky at our food:

We had a quick stop to Walmart in Waikiki to get our necessities that we didn't care if we left behind (shampoo, soap, etc.), grabbed snacks, and checked out potential souvenirs. I saw some cute FABRICS, my new obsession.

Afterwards we checked in our lovely hotel the Best Western Coconut on Lewer St. Very nicely decor. Comfortable.... small. But just what we needed. You're only in there to sleep. I think it’s sooo cute.

So we settled in, took a nap, then got ready for dinner.

We walked down towards Waikiki Beach. We didn’t go far because partying the night before traveling can be a wear a person down. So we ate the infamous Duke's. I wished I took my camera but we forgot it. It’s a cute bar that has reminisces of Hawaii vintage theme. Here’s a view from someone’s photo:

Source of image here

Mr. Mad had the steak and I had the shrimp scampi. The food was great although I didn’t make it through my entrée. I totally took advantage of the salad bar. But the nicest thing… we sat right before their beach front seating area. So we got to watch the wind blowing the palm trees in the dark night making the moment surreal. It was 9 pm when we toast to our First Anniversary since in California time it was already midnight (3 hour difference). Right after we walked back to the hotel because we were sleepy… awww. LOL.

More photos click here

More to come tomorrow….

Motivational Monday: My husband and friends

2009-04-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

I am very blessed to have a healthy and loving family. Although it wasn't always peachy keen we come out of it strong and with more love for each other. When I can't go to my family I have these secret weapons: my hubbie and friends.

Mr. Mad have been my best friend for 5 years and husband for 1. He has definitely been exposed to my ups and downs and amazingly still here for me. No one in the world could compare to the amazing person he is.

My friends are my sisters from another mother. Yes there are plenty of them... being with them is like being in Jon & Kate plus 8. Everyone has something to bring to the table and no one is short of being a BFF to each other. We are the moral support anyone would be blessed to have.

Why did I choose to write about them? Well lately there's been a few questions about friendships but these are the ones I've never doubted. Although we have our misunderstandings make no mistake, we were destined to be friends and kindred spirit... And oh yah. The amazing Ed Pingol have recently taken our photos. If you haven't wandered over to his blog check out these teasers:

Source and to see more photos click here

Source and to see more photos click here

THANK YOU PINGOLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! These are amazing. Now we might have to schedule family photos. :)

BIRTHDAY SHOUT OUT!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-04-17T08:04:00.000-07:00

Please accept my apologizes. I haven't been able to update..because.. I really can't say other than I've been working on something. Monday I'll definitely be able to update. I'm working really hard on it. I can't wait to share.

But today is MR. MAD's birthday. He's 36 years young. I made that sign for fun. Ok I had a lot of time on my hands. LOL. But I hope this encourage him to remember we bought ourselves the Wii so we should start playing it... Anything. Maybe I should get him that game we've been eyeing and playing at my sister's: Rockband!

Motivational Monday

2009-04-13T08:43:00.000-07:00

Every so often I'll do a post on motivation. For someone that's trying to express more of her creative side and trying to get it to make a living for herself motivation is all she gots. So my first one came from a book a friend lent me. She bought it from Starbucks. It's called "Where will you be 5 years from today?" by Dan Zadra.

I'm seriously ~~thinking about~~ going to buy this book. It's the common question we get asked at job interviews. I don't remember half the time what my answers were in past interviews but when I started job interviewing….oh so funny. I remember saying "To pay my debts, finish school, have a house, get married, and have a high successful career here at *blank*". Of course now my response pertains more to career goals vs. personal goals. LOL. Oh to be a youth...

Back to the motivation quote from the book "Where will you be 5 years from today?" by Dan Zadra. Page number I’m not sure but it’s on the page where it ask at the top: "What will you do with your talents?"

"Talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back. The things you are naturally good at are your gifts. If singing or dancing or math or music or leadership come easily to you, that's a gift. One of the marks of a gift is to have the courage to fulfill it. If it's easy for you to be a good dancer, or singer, or athlete, why not become a great one?"

There you go. Have a great day everyone.

Great Finds: KEP Design

2009-04-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

GOOD FRIDAY!!! Indeed....

KEP Classic:#300-pave - The Lizzie - Tousled Lilly jade

Source of image here

Semi-Precious: #600-Gold Toggle-Peruvian opal ovals

Source of image here

Earrings: Evening Flower Filigree plain

Source of image here

I love the simplicity and elegant design of KEP Design of NY. These would be great for Easter. Darn. Missed the boat. But buy them for next year. I got an email that with the code: EASTER. And 20% will knock off your total. Enjoy this weekend!

Personal Spiel: I'm Back!

2009-04-06T13:26:00.000-07:00

Vacation was great. Got a chance to read some blogs, books, and do some thinking. Had thoughts about how much my husband and I have accomplished over the first year of marriage and how can we progress foward. We're a family now and I feel I need to pick up more slack. My wonderful husband has been kinda carrying me and so... I want to give back to him. I'm going back to school to get a second degree.

Hopefully during the course of my studies I'll be able to get the courage to make money outside of my job and hopefully... I don't want to say for the sake of jinxing my plan. I'm trying to be realisitic with this economy. I know in order to own your own business you have to invest quite a lot of time and money into it. So I'm reading and studying everything readily available to motivate me to save money and spend wisely.

OOHHHH! Another thought I had share with yah: A Wedding Quilt. A quilt can be an heirloom that tells a story to many generations after you. I know my family doesn't really have anything like that so... I'd thought I'd do one for my future family (maybe if and when we decide to have kids). Look at these awesome examples:

Purlbee's blog article: Molly's Sketchbook: A Wedding Quilt

Source of image here

lululollylegs's blog article: A toast to Lululollylegs!

Source of image here

Curious Bird's blog article: there's a first time for everything

Source of image here

To new beginnings...

My work: A Wedding Album

2009-03-26T10:58:00.000-07:00

As a gift to my sister and brother-in-law for being the best siblings a girl can ever ask for I made their wedding album (layouts from scratch). This was a 2 year project and I hoped they love it.

They were both in our wedding and been there every step of the way for us (Mr. Mad and I). They just turned 30 so (so cute their bdays are back to back).... So it was a Happy dirty 30 and BIG THANKS gift! They had a low budget but beautiful wedding. Everything came together in just TWO MONTHS!!!!! Yes I said TWO MONTHS! It was a whirlwind being half the only bridal party.

I threw her bparty and bridal shower in one day/night. It was fun though. I need to post about that even though it was two years ago. LOL.

For a better view click here.

Also I'm signing off for a week. I'll be in HAWAII celebrating our 1st anniversary in OAHU. ALOOOOHHHAAA OUIII!!! Come out tomorrow if you can.

Click on image to see full size

PSA: Amy Kuschel Bride and Bella Bridesmaid Sample Sale

2009-03-26T09:31:00.000-07:00

Source of image here

Source of image here
Calling all brides

Daily Candy SF sent me in this weekend's Guide:

Amy Kuschel Bride and Bella Bridesmaid Sample Sale
What: Wedding gowns and bridesmaid frocks by Vera Wang, Amsale, Melissa Sweet, and more are up to 50 percent off.
Why: Make a $20+ donation to EQCA or Breast Cancer Fund and score an additional 10 percent off your AKB gown.
When: Sun., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Amy Kuschel Bride, 23 Grant Ave., b/t Geary & O’Farrell Sts., 5th flr. (415-956-5657).

OOOHHHH!!! Amy Kuschel. She makes beautiful gowns. And Bella Bridesmaid.. you can't get simple and elegant dresses like theirs.

Great Finds: Etsy Seller Shupg

2009-03-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

I found a bunch of cuteness this morning.

Source of image here

Source of image here

Source of image here

More on Shugpg here.
Her etsy shop here.

I want the headphones... soooo ADORABLE!

My Work: My Spoonflower Test

2009-03-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

It's another crazy week at work. But I wanted to blog my fabrics I made with Spoonflower. It's so fun to make the patterns then test the results by ordering fat quarters. The colors came out exactly how I wanted them to. I can't wait to make a bag out of the grayish tan fabric.

In-Sites # 21: PSDTUT

2009-03-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Source of image here
Photoshop tutorials here: http://psd.tutsplus.com/

I seriously found that just last night. I love online Tuts. I wish I can just work all day researching stuff online.

PSA: Handmade Nation Movie

2009-03-10T09:48:00.001-07:00

Source of image here

I sooo want to go....

For more info:http://www.handmadenationmovie.com/

Personal Spiel: Show and tell!

2009-03-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today's show and tell is from an old friend from middle school who is talented as hell. I've blogged about his blog..: http://www.tonypsd.blogspot.com/ (he he he). Get it blogged about his blog?.. ok.. I'm cheesy.

Anyways. I gave him this favorite photo of my husband and I on our wedding day taken by Ed Pingol. Mr. Mad was very happy with the results. This is only part of my anniversary plan. By the way... we're leaving the 28th of March for a week to travel to Oahu to celebrate... wait for it.. wait for it.. OUR FIRST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY! Whoo hoo! We made it.

Workshop Review: Augie Chang's Photography Workshop

2009-03-06T16:06:00.000-08:00

I went to an Augie Chang's "Intro into Photography workshop". I have to say it was quite an investment but completely worth it. I walked away with more knowledge than I ever thought possible. It was beyond what books can offer.

It started off with breakfast, introduction of the students, and an overview of the day's timeline. Then immediately we jumped into the functions of the camera and its purposes. He went through the absolute basics thoroughly and brief ones that are rarely used. Then we break out into 3 cars and take off to meet for lunch. After lunch we pick our partners and complete our day's task. We retreated back to where he held the classroom to look at all our works.

From start to finish it was very well thought out class. Everything that was taught was very useful to me.I liked how there was a mix of students. Those who just wanted to know how to take better photos to those who want to learn for their own business/portfolio. There may be a variety in skills and purposes but it didn't feel segrated that way. Everyone learned on the same pace as though they were all starting from scratch. I think it's because Augie was a well-known successful photographer and everyone wanted to absorb what he had to say. I can't wait to catch his intermediate class. Strongly recommended. He has another coming up soon.

Source of image here

Read about it in his blog: http://augiechangphotography.blogspot.com/2009/03/new-621-intro-to-photography-workshop.html

To see our some of our work check it out here.

Coming up: Augie Chang's Intro Workshop review

2009-03-05T12:46:00.001-08:00

Before

After

I haven't a moment to spare today but I'll work on it tonight. The images above of my work. Mr. Chang was instructing his students on the difference between the changes in aperture and exposure. I took his "Intro into photography" workshop and he just announce a new workshop date. I totally recommend taking it. More to come later....

Great Finds: The Vario Plus Snap Kit by Prym

2009-03-04T09:01:00.001-08:00

Source of image here

I want this soooo badly but as you can see it here on Birch Street Clothing's online store the capabilities of this wonderful tool.

This punch has interchangable heads to apply groommets, eyelets, and buttons. I already have a Crop-A-Dile Eyelet & Snap Punch but at Craft Haven I've seen what the The Vario Plus Snap Kit can do in the flesh. Like what Kelly of Craft Haven have said about the kit "It's like the cloud in the sky has opened up and I saw Heaven". I and the rest of her students that day used it then felt the same way.

I think the investment is totally worth it... just right now.. I'm trying to save for The Mad's 1st anniversary the end of this month. :)Maybe if I sell my Crop-A-Dile Eyelet & Snap Punch.... ooohhh.. yah. Anyone game?

$12.00/best offer? I just don't have room for both of them.

PSA: Floral Workshop

2009-03-03T09:51:00.000-08:00

I haven't been to her workshop because it's always on a day I can't go. BOOO!!! So if you're in the area and you can spare yourself that day please go to this workshop. You won't be disappointed. Karen of Huckleberry Karen Design is sooo talented. She's one of the brides on theknot.com that I've met and based my own wedding inspiration of her actual wedding. On top of that... I hired her as my own florist. She did a gorgeous job. I was sooo happy she did everything that we asked her to do and husband was happy because it was well below our budget.

You can see samples of her work from Mr. Ed Pingol Photography here.

PSA: Photography.Book.Now 2009 contest

2009-03-02T10:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday. I trust you all had a great weekend.

Blurb is having a photobook contest. Read more about it here.

My work: Web design

2009-02-27T11:00:00.000-08:00

So I'm getting back to doing design and I have to say... Web layouts have always been a passion of mines. I’ve been learning html since the beginning of time.

10 years ago my cousin had introduced me to angelfire.com where you can make your own webpage for free. We used to do it to kill time. Oh the days of rolling marquees and sparking gif images on everything. Knowledge of html helped us to also pump up our AsianAvenue.com page. It was like Facebook with a bunch of Asians *he he he*. Although those were the days… I’m evolving to do simple layouts.

I’ve learn...overtime web design they tend to look dated. I am working on a new background for my own design site. But I wanted to hurry and get one of my friend’s site up because like I mentioned in the previous post I’m helping her to get up and running world wide. The sooner I’m done with her website the sooner I can move on to other projects. I wish there was two of me.

Happy Weekend everyone!

PSA: Ocean Beach Cleanup March 21, 2009

2009-02-26T16:54:00.000-08:00

I did it. I signed up for a community event that will promote goodness in the world. Ok not the world but in my little world in SF. I'll be assisting in cleaning Ocean Beach. I'm so happy that my husband agreed to go. Well see on that day if he'll really go and help. But it's only 2 hrs come on. It's not that long. I know I'll be grossed out with what I'll find but it's for a good cause. Ocean beach held a lot of good memories for me. It's a perfect place to start.

Read more about the cause or sign up: http://www.nbcbayarea.com/station/as_seen_on/Ocean-Beach-Cleanup-March-21-2009.html

Personal Spiel: Busy work week

2009-02-25T12:04:00.000-08:00

It's been crazy hectic. Work is condensing some work areas soo we have to make sure we get rid of our supplies that is out in the warehouse. So it's been putting pressure on me to catch up.

At home, oh my poor apartment has been torn upside down because of my schedule. I've been trying to promote for a club, set up my etsy, design my website, and do some designs for my friends (hence one of them is the t-shirt).

I'll be showing some products I'll be selling on Etsy. Handmade jewelry by my friend who is not so net savvy. Oh these pieces are beautiful! I bought one myself to wear for my Aftershoot session/Trash the Dress photo session that's scheduled next month. And that's when I first met her a year ago. Her design and new collection has evolved. I'm trying to convince her to do a giveaway to launch her etsy store. I'll also get her to sit down and do a tutorial as well. So stay tuned.

I finished a few invitation orders and I'm very proud of myself. It's a lot of work and I basically put my life on hold because I've made a few mistakes along the way. Which cause quite a few pennies to fix but I learned my lesson and moving right along!

Handmade gifts. Can you believe with all my seldom free time I am making things by hand for people bdays, holidays, and showers. I think I'm insane.

So I've been busy. I will post photos of everything I've been doing soon.

My work: T-shirts

2009-02-23T13:03:00.000-08:00

So my girlfriends and I are doing a photoshoot soon with my fave photographer Ed Pingol Photography. There are 13 ladies plus their kids and some husband that would participating on this day. Their are questions if all participants everyday but the ladies are confirmed. So we decided in some of the photos we wanted to sport T's. I started designing potentials right away.

Litte history bachground: We are a group of ladies where most of us grew up in San Jose and attended Independence High School. Then the others we met through our friendship from one friend. We all went our separate ways, have our differences with each other, but basically grew up together. It's a fairly large group of female friends and some are closer than others but we identify ourselves as the group we hung out with. We call ourselves "Horses" (a story no one can understand) and "Superstarz". Superstarz came from an inside joke from our yearly girl trips to Las Vegas. Now the back will vary to our own catch phrase.

PSA: Kindness Kitchen Volunteer Lunch Program

2009-02-20T08:36:00.001-08:00

Source of image here

Kindness Kitchen Volunteer Lunch Program

HAPPY FRIDAY! One of my NY's resolution is to spread goodness by volunteering and promoting programs like Kindness Kitchen Volunteer Lunch Program. I found out about this place from the Daily Candy SF.

Here's a copy of the article:
Whoever said there’s no such thing as a free lunch is eating at the wrong restaurant.

Not that Maharani’s Joy Kapur is letting you off scot-free. At Kindness Kitchen, his new Sunday volunteer lunch program, diners are expected to recycle the karma.

Kapur serves complimentary vegetarian and vegan Indian meals out of the kindness of his heart (yes, really). If you partake, he just asks that you pay what you can or return the goodwill to the community via a good deed or two.

Not surprisingly, Kapur needs donations — 10 percent of monthly proceeds are given to Home of Hope, a nonprofit for orphaned and abandoned kids. But he also needs volunteers to cook, serve, and help his team.

It gives whole new meaning to the joy of cooking.

-Source of article here

More info: http://site.kindnesskitchen.com/

What a great way to start off the weekend... knowing there people like Kapur in the world. Be safe everyone and stay warm!

Great Finds: JAPANESE BABY SHOES PATTERN

2009-02-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

Etsy seller "greenjelly" have this pdf pattern she emails you for a low price of $3.95. She has quick and easy information on how to sew it together. I made my first pair and it's adorable.

But I made these in a hurry and didn't pay attention... so:

He he he. At least I'll get it right the next time.

For greenjelly's Etsy store: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5108961

Workshop Review: Crafty Haven

2009-02-17T10:17:00.000-08:00

Source of image here

I mentioned a few weeks ago about this new creative workshop location in SF. Well my friend/co-worker Claire and I said we would check one of their classes. Just when we said that I get an email that said bring a friend for 25% off. And so we signed up.

The rates were a little expensive especially she and I took park rec classes. If you have never taken a park rec class they are roughly (depending on the class) $100 for like 8 weeks. She took hers in Oakland and I took mines in SSF. We both had difference experience but regardless we both walked away knowing how to do the following:
- thread the machine
- change the thread
- do basic stitches
- change the footers
- the difference in needles and footer

So we thought to take Crafty Haven's Basics Part Deux class. We walked away from this class feeling very enriched with knowledge. Let me tell you why.

First of all. There was only 5 of us in the class. In my park rec there's 15 of us. I felt I was knowledgeable after my park rec classes. But after this workshop I felt like the door of understanding has opened up because of the small class environment. Sewing is more intricate than it seems. There's so many aspects of it to make it a clean polish that even I didn't anticipate. The only way we would notice if there was a close interaction with the teacher. When my machine jammed... I was pointed out by the instructor all too quickly. I was embarrassed but she gave me a tip on how to troubleshoot it quickly. Before this class I was would fumble with the machine for hours. In my park rec class it would take the teacher a lot longer to notice I was behind b/c of my jammed machine.

I never in my life produce something that looks sooo clean.

Secondly we moved as a class. In a park rec class you're given an assignment to do for the next few weeks. It could be the same it could be different. This caused me to be lost some days. At Crafty Haven we were given the same tasks. Moving as a class it allows us all to absorb the lessons of the day progressively together.

Thirdly the results were something I can definitely be proud of. Look a the photos above. I've done projects and I've always felt so so about it. I couldn't sew a flat, straight line if my life depend on it. Though it's a small material but even our instructor went over how to achieve it on a longer material.

Check it out. You won't regret it. It cost a little more than what we're used to. However Claire and I will be taking a classes once every other month. It's soo worth the money for what we walk away with. Plus it helps to know we're contributing to their host: Turning Heads. For us to be able to contribute to that project is priceless and worth our investment.

Fine out more about Crafty Haven: http://www.crafthaven.org/about.htm

My work: Vday Cupcakes

2009-02-13T14:15:00.000-08:00

I promise. I wanted to share my mini cupcakes I made for my company. They are red (purple more like it) velvet cupcakes. I used a recipe I found online from Magnolia Bakery. You know that bakery SATC had made popular. They are delici(ous).

I made them last night and my friend/coworker Claire ice'd and decorate it. We handed it out to every single employee. My favorite appreciation were from the warehouse employees. They marvelled how cute they were. Mini Cupcake pan is on my list to buy. I borrowed Claire's to make these.

Everyone was shocked how nice it was that we did it. It's been a very rough week for me. My own father is a casuality in this declining economy. I heard rumors everyone was nervous at my current job of being laid off. So I'd thought with the holidays that we would cheer people up. The moral of the company has gone completely down the tube. Though we probably don't have much to spare a little something can go a long way. I'm glad we did it early in the day because we lost about 10 employees today. very sad but ... We need to keep up HOPE everyone.

HAPPY HEART DAY and have a fantabulous weekend!

PS see my new logo... more to come soon.

PSA: Vote for Ed Pingol

2009-02-13T11:18:00.001-08:00

This is the 2nd post of the day. I want to announce my photographer, Ed Pingol Photography, have been choosen to be a candidate for the FRESHEST PHOTOBLOG! If you like his work, my wedding photos, and you want him to suffer 2months worth of house chores while his wife sits back and relax then vote for him!

Click here and enter the code 90! And that's it.

Here's the link to his site: http://edpingol.blogspot.com/

PSA: Maker SHED is having a sale!!!!!!!!!!

2009-02-13T00:14:00.000-08:00

If you have followed my blog you know I'm all about http://craftzine.com/ and follow their blog. Well the announced their Maker Shed's (online produce site) have 15% their craft kits. Check it out: http://www.makershed.com/.

I took the liberity of posting all the ones I'm interested in.

KnitKnit: Profiles + Projects From Knitting's New Wave

Source of image here

Beginner Resin Kit

Source of image here

Kitty, Bunny & Bear Pattern Book by Wee Wonderfuls

Source of image here

Cute Penguin Kit

Source of image here

In-sites #20: Tony.PSD

2009-02-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

I love knowing talented people. Check out my long time friend from middle school's blog: http://tonypsd.blogspot.com/. Here's a few of his work.

He does custom illustration as well. Hit him up on his blog.

Quote of the day

2009-02-09T09:25:00.000-08:00

Today's Quote

We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us really happy is something to be enthusiastic about.

-Charles Kingsley

****
Side note. I'm working on a facelift to the blog for 2009. And pulling all my old stuff I haven't blogged about. There's workshop reviews, etc. Stay tuned!

Great Finds: Bay Area Proud

2009-02-03T08:46:00.000-08:00

Somewhere in the middle of the Super Bowl this commercial aired about signing up to do some volunteer work. I tried to pull up the ad via Google and I didn't realized it aired nationwide. I found a hate forum and it saddens me as it pokes fun of the commercial. Just when I was about to write and talk about how excited I was to sign up for it.

They talk about how obnoxious and cheesy the commercial was. The newscasters represented in it sounds like they were curing cancer. I felt almost a twinge of embarrassment being gung ho about the program.

You know what? Forget it. I am proud. At least I'm not sitting on my touche complaining about commercials all day. It may not be feeding the hunger in Africa but it's what I can do with the time I have and the place I am at. We maybe more privilege here in the Bay Area than anywhere else in the world... but we also live where school are closing. Cities are going bankrupt. Thousands are losing their jobs. Kids are out on the streets dieing at a scary rate.

The commercial may not have a positive effect on everyone... but it did on me. Though my time is very seldom I'm willing to free up to help the future of our community.

http://www.nbcbayarea.com/station/as_seen_on/BC-PRD-About-Bay-Area-Proud.html

Personal Spiel: I miss sewing

2009-02-02T10:16:00.001-08:00

I serious need to figure out a schedule to do things. I want to seeeeewwwwwwwww badly to sew. Look what they featured today on Craftzine's blog:

Source of image here

Check out the tutorial: http://amyalamode.wordpress.com/2009/01/28/cozy-camera-case-tutorial/

I've done a few projects I haven't posted. Soon I promise. Soon.