Happy Holidays!

I just wanted to take a moment in the insanity and amazement that is Christmas Eve with two little ones to say happy holidays from my family here at Ija. I'm not sure if you know, but at this point Ija is a one woman show with a supporting cast of one remarkable husband, two phenomenal children and two dopey dogs. We truly appreciate all of your support and it's because of you that this incredible journey has made it this far. Here's to you and yours and looking forward to a fabulous New Year!

O Magazine Features Our Clasped Bangle

Normally I would have posted this the second it came across my desk, but unfortunately Oprah had to wait until I knew my mom was going to be alright. Now that she's happy and home resting in her own bed I can celebrate that our Curved Clasped Bangle was featured in O Magazine!! I'm thrilled at the response these bangles have been getting, as they are an instant classic. Simple, easy to wear and brilliant; I can't seem to make them fast enough.

Perspective . . .

I started this week in a complete panic, scrambling to get holiday orders filled, children to holiday talent shows, packages purchased and wrapped, cookies baked, etc. Then Tuesday morning I received a phone call that stopped my entire world. My mom had suffered a stroke . . .

My mom is a single mother who fought adversity to raise three children. She is the most amazing woman I know and my closest friend. I spent the last few days in a blur of cat scans, MRIs and echocardiograms and as I lay there next to her bed at night listening to the hum of her I.V. I realized something; what a phenomenal day it had been. I left the house not knowing if my last conversation with my mother was going to be a hurried conversation about nothing and I was laying there next to her watching her sleep. It was the greatest gift I could have ever received.

So, to everyone please be sure in this crazy holiday season to take time and tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. I am thrilled to say that my mom is going to be fine and that I have a new perspective on what is truly important. Now, off to bake those cookies :)

Jezebel Magazine

One of my favorite pieces in the line, our hand forged Gold Cuff was featured in this month's issue of Jezebel Magazine. This bracelet is such a fabulous statement piece and the perfect accessory for a fun holiday frock. Sometimes all you need to get into the holiday spirit is a healthy dose of bling . . .

Art Hop @ Hot Box Betty

Last night my girlfriend and I walked downtown through the park for drinks and I was blown away by how beautiful Bend is this time of year. The christmas lights were reflecting in the river and the brisk air felt fantastic. If you'd like to experience that moment of bliss for yourself you should head downtown for the first Friday Art Hop tonight. I'll be hanging out with my lovely ladies at Hot Box Betty and showing some fabulous pieces that would make great gifts or a wonderful treat to get yourself in the holiday mood. Come on down and experience the magic of Bend during the holidays and feast your eyes on some delicious jewels.

Glamour Magazine

Be sure to pick up the December issue of Glamour, and you'll find Ija's tassel earrings featured in one of the fashion spreads. I love these earrings in the mediterranean blue, they are a fabulous pop of color and pizzazz. Just in case however, we offer them in ten different colors. Did I mention the neon? Now there's a pair for whatever your mood.

Ija Designs at the Broken Top Holiday Trunk Show

Ok, so I know it's a little last minute, but if you're around the Bend area tomorrow evening you should swing by the Broken Top Clubhouse for their Holiday Trunk Show. Ija will be there with all our goods and I'm whipping up some new bangles as we speak. If you're anything like me and procrastinate on holiday shopping, this will be the perfect opportunity to knock out some gifts before you even have to worry about what you're stuffing the bird with. See you tomorrow from 4 to 8pm!