Geaux Local II

As part of my Geaux Local series, I am pleased as punch to share another creative soul with all of my animal loving friends. Nadine has been a longtime blogging buddy from my days as a chihuahua blogger. She has two sweet ones also, Chewy and Lilibell. I was so smitten with her jewelled collars, that I ordered some for Izzy. The quality of Nadine's work is exceptional, which I can attest to since Izzy owns four of her pieces. Since then Nadine has branched out, creating dog attire that rivals Versace. Nadine is also a dedicated voice for orphaned/neglected animals, giving a portion of the proceeds to rescue organizations. Please check out her Etsy site here and her Facebook page here. Below are the necklaces that were crafted by Nadine and modeled reluctantly by Izzy.

Lilibell's Couture link

Christmas, 2010 - My punkin wouldn't sit still, so I ended up with a bit of blur, but you get the idea.
Texture by Skeletelmess, Beneath the Surface

I think this was the first necklace I ordered. It looks so elegant.

This was a "bonus" necklace that Nadine sent. The ladybug charm is perfect for Izzy and the red/black/white color scheme is so White Stripes (a band I will always love)

Our little Valentine

Please note that Nadine of Lilibell's Couture did not solicit this post, nor was I compensated in any way. I am simply sharing my experiences of buying from independent designers/sellers. Sharing the love, that's all!

Geaux Local

Now that Thanksgiving is over and our bellies are full, it is time to concentrate on Christmas.

Giving is a joyful experience, or it should be. Supporting a local or independently owned business is a wonderful way to magnify that joy. Corporations are made up of people, so I'm not saying to avoid them completely; however, instead of buying all your gifts from huge corporate retailers, it would give such a boost to mom-and-pop stores if we each purchased at least one item locally this Christmas. With that in mind, even our blogging neighbors can be considered local, offering unique, well-made crafts, one of which I will showcase in this post.

Maureen at Cottage960 caught my attention with these beautifully crafted camera charm necklaces. I think these would also be fun to hang on the rear view mirror in your car. On one side is a vintage photo of a woman holding a camera and the other side has a saying or quote of your choice. I love these pieces and a very special someone will be a recipient this Christmas.

Aren't these delightful? Maureen did not ask me to promote her business, nor was I compensated in any way. I thought to do this post only after I received the order. As part of my Geaux Local mantra, I am happy to share her talent—it's as simple as that. Check out Maureen's Etsy shop here. I will be sharing similar posts like this one from time to time. YOU could be next! :)

1 John 3:18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.