Contagious Creations

Fab Fair Vancouver

2011-06-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

Me at my booth :)

Contagious Creations Jewelry was at Fab Fair this past weekend for the first time!!
Fab Fair is a craft fair consisting of mostly handmade jewelry vendors, but there were some other great finds as well, such as handmade purses, soaps, bath products and pottery.

Some of my most memorable artists were Karen Fung from Meiku Designs. Her collection consists of mostly Sterling silver and semi-precious stones, and she is known for her easy to wear comfortable wrap leather bracelets that come in all different colors and stones. Her collection has a very modern feel, but is also very classic. With pieces that can versify from day to evening.

MeiKu Designs

Another artisans jewelry that really caught my eye was Effie Backer Designs. Her booth was a breath of fresh air...literally! Her display is nature inspired, with earrings hanging from leaves, and a green mossy display theme. It was beautiful!!

Effie Baker Designs

Living in Paradise Valley Effie is very much inspired by Nature and the outdoors. Her designs are all handmade and no pieces are exactly alike. My favorite from her collection are her heart necklaces. You can shop Effie Baker Designs online here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/effiebakerdesigns?ref=seller_info

I was really impressed by the quality of Artisans work there. It was definitely a great show!
And hope to be back next year!

I've been Featured!

2011-06-05T22:12:00.000-07:00

My Ruby beauty earrings have been featured in Lisalikes Treasury on Etsy!!
Check out her gorgeous treasury here http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4deb326376846d91d84d1eed/light-bright-fun-sun

Getting Ready for FAB FAIR

2011-06-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the beginning of Fab Fair. Its my first year, so I am hoping it will be good!! Its supposed to be sunny outside so hopefully there will be tons of people out and about. If you live in Vancouver you should definitely come check it out. There will be lots of neat items for sure!! Check out www.fabfair.ca for more info.

Euro Trip!!

2011-06-01T11:21:00.000-07:00

So we are leaving to Europe the 2Oth of June for a month. Were going to be travelling all around from country to country. Were also doing a 3 day music festival at T in The Park in Scotland. I am super excited to the point that this is basically all I can think about!!

We were so confused with what we were going to bring for luggage. We were tossing and turning between bigger back backs that we check in, or just carry on luggage.
I was soo set on getting this pink duffel bag that doubles as a back pack too.
Then we seen of all the people, Claire Newell in the luggage department of the bay. She is from the Travels Best Bets segment on Global TV and all round traveling guru. Basically the perfect person to ask!! What a coincidence.

So my finance jay goes up to her and asks for her opinion. I never like to bother TV personalities because I figure they probably get harassed al the time. She was really cool though and helped us to decide. She said what ever you get make sure it has wheels. You don't want to be carrying around your luggage.

I was set on check in luggage, but Jays wanted something to fit in the overhead sized bin area....but for a month in Europe YIKES!
Anyways we ended up getting these cool back backs that are overhead bin sized.....which freaks me out just a bit....but they are pretty cool. And we can carry them if we need or wheel them which is great.
They do expand a bit so i am glad I at least have that option. This is going to be the greatest challenge ever though. Its a little exciting to see if I can actually be this low maintenance. It means no hair styling tools. I don't think I even will have room for moisturizer. Minimal makeup and maybe 4 changes of close at the most!!! and thats with mixing and matching. Wish me luck!

A Beautiful Life Giveaway with Contagious Creations

2011-05-30T11:48:00.000-07:00

A Beatiful Life is having a contest to win a piece that you choose valued up to $50 from my collection! Visit her wonderful blog at http://abeautifullife.ca/ for contest details. The more you retweet the more chances you have to win. Choose what you like out of my collection at www.contagiouscreations.etsy.com and write about it below her blog post to enter. Good Luck!!

Favorite Spring Summer Trends

2011-05-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

Its always nice to go shopping for the new season ahead. I get way to excited when I first see everything in the stores and honestly want to go crazy and buy everything....but you have to remember that there are always cute things every season and every year. It's a bit hard to think like this, I know I have a hard time anyways!

Here are some of my favorite picks that would be really good to incorporate into your current wardrobe. Things that are practical, match with many things and would last for more than one season.

Shoes, I think its essential to have a great everyday walking shoe. Something that is cute but also really comfortable.We are planning a trip to Europe this summer and I feel that these are a perfect all round shoe to pack with you. When you know you will be doing a lot of walking but also want to look fashionable.

These are from Browns Shoes and retail for $138. but they have some style to them and also look really comfortable. The neutral tone could go with any outfit.
I love them!!

Another great shoe for summer and a must have this year is a wedge. They are nice because they are like the casual heel. Not to try hard, and great for the daytime summer dress. I like these ones from Steve madden I found them on sale from Piperlime.com $69.50 and a best seller! Reviews say they are very comfortable.

Another great essential to get is a cardigan. I feel that where I live in Vancouver the summer evenings still get a bit chilly, so it's important to have some cardigans. Go for a neutral shade so that it can match everything. I like this one here; In my opinion it is not to long and looks nice and comfy. It also on sale at piperlime.com for $60.00

And your going to want a cute summer dress. I say go for a colorful maxi dress. They are so comfortable and great for evening and day. Its nice having some color. I think keep your main part of your outfit a color and your sweaters, jackets and shoes a neutral. It will always be easier creating a perfect outfit.

This one is from piperlime.com and is $74

Oxidized Jewelry

2011-05-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

I am really into oxidization right now. I noticed with lighter colored stones I think it really compliments them compared to lighter silver. I have added a couple new pieces to my line of jewelry. Let me know what you think, I always wonder if what people prefer and would love to hear any comments you may have.

Urban Outfitters Steals Another Indie Artist’s Work ... Again

2011-05-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

Etsy Artist Stevie Koerner Sells her "A world of Love" Charm Necklaces on Etsy. They are cute charm necklaces with different states, and a heart in the middle of each of them. I guess Urban outfitters liked these charm necklaces so much they stole her idea, and started calling their version "I heart destination necklaces"... can you believe this!!

Read the full article here!

Urban Outfitters Steals Another Indie Artist’s Work ... Again

Stunning Handmade Clothing from Liron

2011-05-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

So I was browsing through Etsy last night and I cam across this wonderful designer Liron. I love how the designs all look comfortable but still have such style to them. The pieces are all really nice and come in a variety of different shades to choose from. The prices are very reasonable, and everything is custom made to fit you perfectly. She has only been designer for 3 years, but you would never know byt the sophisticated clothing which is all hand sewn.

Check out her wonderful Etsy Shop here, and shop online.

Updated Website

2011-05-20T00:28:00.000-07:00

So I am trying to add a way to shop on my website. I am doing this myself and I am not the best at it!!
I am using Googlesites and I guess they wont allow, or it is very hard to add a PayPal button to your site. I hope to figure this out one day, but until then you can still purchase through my Etsy shop.

I am adding each different piece so you can view on my site without having to click through to Etsy.
I have updated a bit of the about me section so far as well.
Let me know what you think so far! www.contagiouscreationsjewelry.com

NEW Necklaces Just Made!!!!

2011-05-18T16:10:00.000-07:00

SUPER SALE

2011-05-03T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone, I have decided to do some spring cleaning in my ETSY shop. I have placed some of my jewelry on clearance. You can check out my clearance section here http://www.etsy.com/shop/ContagiousCreations?section_id=8082622. Also if you see something that isn't on sale that you like, place me an offer. If its reasonable I"ll take it!!

This wont last long. So hurry!!

Cheers,

Danielle

2011-04-07T17:57:00.000-07:00

CLOTHING MADE IN CANADA......VIA ETSY!!

I am looking long and hard for clothing made in Canada in local stores. I swear this is impossible! So I have decided to make a list of different designers of Canadian made clothing. Enjoy! SIMONE'S ROSE by Pyxus Passion Project

TANGENTE

CALI CLOTHING

ALLISON WONDERLAND

Chlacedony Slab and Moonstone Necklace

2011-02-28T15:40:00.000-08:00

I love this necklace. The silver handmade fish beads ads originality. This is a one of a kind piece and this is my last Chalcedony slab. I have no more :(
I have searched far and wide, and cant find anymore of this size. If you happen to come across some...please let me know!

You will not find anyone with these large beautiful Chalcedony stones. the color is gorgeous. The moonstones are a perfect compliment to the necklace, with a pearl shine, and pinkish tone, they are dazzling!

Tropical Jungle Fever

2011-02-25T00:11:00.000-08:00

ME :)

I love All that Glitters!

2011-02-21T16:01:00.000-08:00

These are really sensational. They are Swarovski Crystal but look like really expensive jewels. I am not the best at taking pictures, but these sparkle so much!! I just wanted to share with you my favorite earrings currently.

My Jewelry was featured in NEW YORK WEDDING GUIDE

2011-02-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

I remember back a few years ago I designed a custom bridal set for a lady in New York. It was something different though, she wanted a flapper style to it. I thought the idea was fantastic! How exciting a 30's style wedding!
So I made this beautiful outrageously long necklace with jet black Swarovski Crystals and a gorgeous sterling tassel at the end of it with a large Swarovski Crystal as the focal piece. I also made some stunning earrings to match. I was so excited to see the pictures, but unfortunately never did....until not to long ago I Googled my name (Contagious Creations Jewelry) and stumbled across this article.

Mukado Jewelry Store

2009-09-30T14:47:00.000-07:00

Contagious Creations is now sold at Mukado jewelry in West Vancouver.
Stop by and take a look inside this fabulous boutique.
They carry all sorts of handmade jewelry by local Vancouver designers as well as designers from France.
They have amazing handbags and belts to try on as well.
Everything is handmade and simply to die for.
Check it out!

Mukado Jewelry Boutique
Location

Dundarave Village

2428 Marine Drive

West Vancouver, BC V7L 1L1

778.279.1961

Swarovski Dangle Earrings Turtorial

2009-09-01T19:33:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone!! I want to give you all an easy tutorial on some earrings I just made. I used clip on's, but your welcome to use what ever kind of ear back you like.

So for your supplies you will need:

-8" of chain (silver or gold your preference)

-6 Swarovski Crystals (6mm)

-choice of earback (french wires, lever back, clip on)

-2 jump rings (4mm)

-6 headpins preferably ball pins but does not matter. (1.5" and 24 Gage)

Tools you will need are:

-2 pairs needle nose wires

-round tip jewelry making needle nose pliers

- pair of small wire cutters

OK lets get started!

So first of all, cut chain into six small pieces (desired lengths). You will want 3 pieces for each earring. Make sure to cut one piece slightly longer than the other. You can do this accurately by counting links and just addimg a couple to each piece. Remember to make 2 of each size (One for each earring). My longest length is 4.5mm and shortest is 3.5mm.

Now we are going to add the Crystal beads. Slide a crystal bead on to the headpin using your round tipped needle nose pliers. You will want to make a loop not to small and not too big, about 4mm. Try doing this carefully not to chip the bead.

Next slide the first length of chain over the wire so it sits in the middle off the loop.

Now we will close the loop. Using your needle nose pliers you will gently hold the loop in place with the very tip of the pliers, making sure not to squeeze any of the chain. Now while doing this you will use your other pair of needle nose pliers to grab the longer part of the wire and begin wrapping it around the base of the loop, keeping it tight, but not chipping the bead.

Do this for each piece of chain, until all six crystals have been wired on.

Now take your 4mm jump ring and carefully open it placing needle nose pliers on both sides of it and open sideways NOT spreading the circle apart. (SEE PICTURE)

Now slide one of each different length for a total of 3 pieces of chain onto the jump ring. Then slide the jump ring with chain over the small loop on the ear backing you chose. Carefully grab both pliers again and close the jump ring onto the ear-wire loop not squeezing anything else but the jump ring.

Repeat all of the above for the other earring.

Congratulations! You now have made your own pair of earrings. Easy Wasn't it!

This is what the finished product should look like

2009-08-23T18:32:00.001-07:00

Summer is almost over EEEK!!

So I have been trying to do as much as possible with friends and just going out and enjoying the weather.Went to the bike races out in Mission today. Man those bikes are sure LOUD! I had my ear plugs in so far that they actually hurt when I pulled them out!
We had rid en the Harley out there with some friends since it was a nice day. So on the way back we stopped and had a bite to eat at the Mission Springs Brew Pub. I really liked it in there. They have a really large menu with many yummy looking things on there. I had some hot wings and a spinach salad along with some wine of coarse :)

Dreaming Of Swarovski Collection

2009-08-14T12:39:00.000-07:00

I have made a new collection of Swarovski necklaces. Featuring Key charms and also some with Eiffel Tower charms, there will be more to come soon. I love the sparkle of the Crystal I find them so mesmerizing. Many believe Crystals have the power to ward off bad energy and channel good energy.

Im Back After What May Seem Like Forever!

2009-08-14T12:13:00.000-07:00

It feels like I haven't blogged in a century. Sorry guys :(

I'm back though and I am going to make up for it. I think with all the fabulous weather we have been experiencing on the West Coast it makes it hard to want to sit inside at the computer desk.

Honestly this summer has been incredible. Generally I'm complaining how it never really heats up here, but I guess I cant do that anymore. We had such a long heat wave, and I enjoyed every moment of it....well not when I had to clean the house. Vacuuming in 30 degree weather is not so fun. But to go outside and never worry about sweaters and layering is definitely nice.

I have been busy doing a ton of great things this summer.

Before the summer even fully began me and my Fiance took a trip to Montreal. We had a West jet credit from awhile back and thought it would be nice to take a trip somewhere in Canada for a change.

Montreal is one of the most beautiful cities I have ever seen. I mean Amazing! If you wander through the Old Montreal it is so rich with character and history. its a stunning city on the water with so much to offer. The shopping is great and the food, OMG the food!!! The best food ever!

We went to see Cirque Du Soleil "OVO". It was my first time seeing a Cirque show. They are so talented, I loved every moment of it. We also took the train over to Quebec City, which has to be the most fairytale land in the world. So much art and inspiration over there, if you haven't been, I definitely recommend.

Tropical Tribal Necklace

2009-04-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love anything that reminds you of paradise?

I made this for all you who love that feeling!

With wooden beads and natural stones, its totally inspired by nature. Reminds me of all the handmade goodies in all the colorful markets in Mexico.

2009-03-01T20:30:00.000-08:00

SO I am way to excited for summer to come because I absolutely love summer fashion!! I have a couple new purchases that are waiting in my closet for me to wear. I got these fabulous sandals at Nine West the other day. I fell in love with them the moment I saw them. I love how they are kinda that gladiator style which is really in right now, and I also love that they are a neutral color so they can coordinate with tons of stuff. I also grabbed a pair of these really cute linen cargo pants by Free People. These pants are the most comfortable pair of pants ever, and I highly suggest them to everyone!!! By the way I took a peek at their website for the first time and they have really nice clothes. I have a hunch I will be returning very soon.... :)

I still need to get a few more things for summer. I really want to get a nice summer dress, something that could go well with the sandal. I also desperately need a skirt, I have like maybe one skirt that I actually where. Its strange my only addiction is to clothes (and jewelry supplies...that's a whole other story). I will fill you in when I get a couple more goodies.

NO CAMERA!!

2009-02-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

SO I was really excited yesterday to take pictures of my jewelry outside. It was an overcast day, but bright enough to get some good lighting without a shadow. I set up a table and brought all my jewelry out. Then as I go to start taking pics my cameras lens wouldn't open! It starting beeping and said "lens error, restart camera". So I did, and what do you know the stupid thing still doesn't work.

I went online looking for answers to the problem. I found a few peoples suggesting to actually hit the camera. I thought this wasn't the best idea, but I decided to lightly give it a couple taps. I thought maybe this could loosen up whatever's jammed. But no.

Without my camera I feel lost. I use it almost on a daily basis. I love my camera too :(

I called around and found a place downtown that does on-site repairs. I didn't want to send it away to Canon cause that could take forever!

So tomorrow I will be bringing it into see the camera doctor and I am hoping that there will be a fast and easy solution!