Friday, December 16, 2011

Holiday cheer


Happy Holidays to you all!

I know that holiday shopping for the perfect gift creates a TON of unnecessary stress; especially when faced with the perceived pressure to buy for people you don't even like (!). I'd love to say, just refrain. But I know that most people have their hearts in the right place. This post is for you. 
Most of you don't know this, but my "day job" is as an assistant manager at Target. The holidays, while joyful for some, are hell for anyone who works retail. It's ugly, stressful and we deal with a lot of unhappy people. We have no life during 4th quarter, so it's extremely difficult to be full of cheer like the rest of the population. We're a cynical bunch. That being said, I love the decorations and the trees and the tacky lights and the scented candles and the food and drinks! But mostly the drinks! 
I have a good day when I'm able to connect with someone who's shopping for less fortunate kids, or spending time with a grumpy old lady who eventually warms up to you, or when I'm able to help a woman pick out the clothes her husband will be buried in (true story). It's about compassion. 

This is partly why I've decided to reboot My Precious Studio in 2012. I want to create jewelry that is meaningful and special. Not just purely fashion anymore. My 15th Anniversary is around the corner so I've been cooking up some new ideas: a re-designed website, editing down my current lines, adding a Reliquary line, a line of wedding/commitment bands, a men's line, and a pet tag section. These are just some of the things I'm working on for the new year.

On a side note, I will be having hand surgery on my left thumb in early January. Yes, hand surgery. On my hand. I will have a lot to keep me busy while I recover and should be back in the studio February. 

Still looking for a special gift?  I'm having a rare 15% off sale in my Etsy shop. It's happening NOW through SUNDAY DECEMBER 18th (ends at midnight Eastern time). All orders will ship on Monday. Just enter coupon code: OHMYPRECIOUS15 at checkout.

Folks in or near Richmond, VA can shop for some more of my jewelry (and other locally made goodies) at the Bizarre Market Holiday at Chop Suey Books in Carytown. The shop's upstairs and is open through December 24th.

Be kind and stay healthy! 
xoxo