Kai Expressions Jewelry

Maximize Your Resources for a Good Cause: SOLD!!!

2011-03-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

Between the economy and natural disasters of late, the need to dig a little deeper and help thy neighbor is increasing. We are no longer pillar communities looking out for our own. We realize that we are all connected, and we need to support one another not only because what happens next door can effect our sandbox, but because it is the right thing to do.

Monetary donations are always the #1 goal, however, organizations realize that some of us need to be more creative in our attempts. Kai Expressions Jewelry has taken this opportunity to give what we know best - we speak in gems. Fundraisers are popping up in folds, and we have found much success in donating to auctions to do our part in uplifting a worthy cause.

Our first donation began in 2005 to the Hildebrand Family Self Help Center's Weaving Dreams Gala in Cambridge, MA. As a new company we were very pleased to learn one of our handcrafted earrings went for $65 towards this great organization that creates transitional housing.

Last year we donated a Genuine Garnet Set to the Shady Hill School Defying Gravity Gala & Auction: 2010. The silent auction benefited the scholarship fund and commitment to economic diversity at Shady Hill School in Cambridge, MA. (An incredible school that encourages creativity and diversity, and also my alma mater). Valued at $65, our piece raised a whopping $160 landing Kai Expressions in the top 5 items with the highest percentage over value!!

Women Empowered is another great local organization, dedicated to empowering women through social networking, health awareness and community volunteerism. Kai Expressions Jewelry was able to raise over $40 at last year's inaugural fundraising cocktail reception.

This year Kai Expressions Jewelry made a new connection with Crown Jewel Club, a Los Angeles based organization that empowers at-risk girls with basic etiquette and social skills essential to building self-esteem and self-confidence for academic achievement and overall success in life. Our three strand Genuine Freshwater Pearls raised $100 towards CJC's essential programming.

We have also donated jewelry to the Los Angeles Urban League Young Professionals Whitney M. Young After Party: 2010 supporting the LAULYP and its initiative to empower quality of life within our community through service, professional development, social consciousness and political awareness. For more information on our philanthropic program visit our GIVING BACK website.

What's next? Kai Expressions Jewelry will be donating a piece to raise funds for the 100 Black Men of Long Beach at their 3rd Annual Benefit Awards Dinner & Gala on April 23, 2011.

We look forward to finding new ways to be able to give back to our neighboring communities, and encourage other entities to think of ways that they can also contribute in whatever way they can. Individuals can also help too. Donate a gift certificate, offer to bake a cake, create a gift basket, offer a service. There are numerous items that can be donated, and you just may be surprised at the impact you can make...

Will You Be Mine?

2011-03-10T20:33:00.000-08:00

This past Valentine's Day marked a special day. The commercial holiday can bring a range of indifference, joy, or even depression to those feeling their world doesn't match the diamonds and roses that riddle TV. Kai Expressions Jewelry partnered with the non-profit Women Empowered, to give back the Downtown Women's Center and combat those ill feelings. DWC is a phenomenal institution in downtown Los Angeles that "provides permanent supportive housing and a safe and healthy community fostering dignity, respect, and personal stability, and advocates ending homelessness for women." In a nutshell, it lends a hand, a heart, and a smile to many women that need extra support to get by.

We thought of ways that we could celebrate Valentine's Day to represent love and empowerment and create a window where daily stresses were shelved and the true spirit of the day could be honored. Valentine's Day to me has never been about the Hallmark and chocolates. It's has been an annual tradition to bring an extra spark to those who may not have the conventional forms of expressing love in their lives. It's the child's handmade card with extra gobs of glitter, it's the unexpected treat left on Grandma's porch. This year it was time & dedication extended to a room full of women we had never met before.

Kai Expressions was pleased to lead a workshop teaching the ladies how to make their own earrings. An assortment of beads and tools and treats filled the room along with a sing-a-long of romantic tunes (just to humor Cupid). Additionally, Women Empowered offered manicures and 10-min massages on the outdoor patio so the ladies could be spruced up for their big day. It truly was an honor to bring so many smiles to a sometimes stressful time of year, and bond together as women, regardless of our situations.

A few of the women were making gifts so they could have something to give to their daughters for Valentine's Day. One made matching pairs for her 25 year old and 12 year old daughters so they could be "twins." Some had beading experience and took advantage of the space to explore their craft. Others never knew they had a creative bone in their body and surprised themselves with a new found hobby. All had a great, uplifting afternoon, exemplified by the cheers we were greeted with as we departed.

It was a heart warming day and Kai Expressions was very happy to be a part of such a self-less day that set a tone of love and friendship. The very best Valentine of all...

And the Winner Is...

2011-03-02T21:38:00.000-08:00

Award season has come and gone and with it an impressive roster of Red Carpet Trendsetters.

The 2011 Oscars proved to be a lack luster production overall - in my opinion - with its blatant attempts to appeal to a younger audience while missing the boat on entertaining its remaining demographics. But the awards are really only a fraction of the show, right? The fashion statements spoke loud and clear at Sunday night's festivities. The ends of the spectrum seemed to be the rule of thumb with gowns draped in pale nudes and lipstick red. There seemed to be a subtle touch this year's red carpet. I think it was coined by Whoopie Goldberg best that today's icons simply don't want to rock the boat and be under the "Worst Dressed" ridicule. Rather than bold and outlandish the goal is to win through glamour and elegance, and this year's RTC hit the mark.

Kai Expressions is always quick to look beyond the fabrics - to the gems! We have selected the top jewelry picks by this year:

Great beadwork for Cheryl Hines' glittering diamonds. Always love a statement collarbone piece!

Four stars for Kate Beckinsale's Bold "Kiss My" Ring

Gorgeous choker from Nicole Kidman - it made her look!

Loved Jennifer Hudson's glamorous dangling earrings - she's really elongated for her new look!

Lastly, "Lady O" rocked it in an amazing outfit that not only took the stage - it matched the stage!! Her heiress left us with a true air of royalty...

'Til the next ladies. You keep us inspired!!

2011: It Only Gets Better

2011-01-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Wow - the end of the year flew by, and now we have a new start, a new opportunity to reset our goals --- and actually follow them! In doing so, the age old practice of reflection comes into effect as we look back on what we accomplished as a springboard to what we hope to achieve.

On that token, we would like to thank you for all of your support of Kai Expressions Jewelry for the past FIVE years! 2010 was another great year for Kai Expressions Jewelry. In addition to continuing expansion throughout Southern California:

Check out our latest collections on our updated website !

We've partnered with Juni Photography and are growing an amazing portfolio illustrating our latest jewelry designs. Click for more photos. And more!!

Kai Expressions Jewelry began this new blog, featuring articles to bring you insight into contemporary fashion and unique trends that bring out your true inner essence to stand out from the crowd (follow us today and be updated on all posts)!

Our Philanthropic Program has expanded to include donations to LA's Downtown Women's Center, mirroring a previous donation program to Boston's Rosie's Place which totaled over $800. Additionally, we have contributed to silent auctions raising important funds for causes such as the Shady Hill School, The Los Angeles Urban League, Women Empowered and Children Uniting Nations, among other charitable donations and workshops. We look forward to continuing our efforts throughout 2011.

Our Kai Keepsakes' Custom and Bridal Division has continued to enhance memories with personalized bridal packages and customized pieces. Charm bracelets and birthstone pendants have been among this year's favorites!

(C. Vargas Wedding Featuring Kai Expressions Bridal Jewelry)

The Kai Expressions' online communities have continued to grow over the past year. Our monthly free-earring giveaways on Twitter and Facebook were a lot of fun - be sure to sign up today as we begin our monthly drawings again soon for 2011!

Our designs can now be found at The Suit Closet, a trendsetting clothing boutique near downtown Los Angeles. Stay tuned for the grand re-opening this spring!

We look forward to seeing what 2011 enfolds. Wishing you a very healthy, happy and hopeful year ahead, and may the new year bring you new adventures and memories... Thank you again for being with us every step of the way!

Sincerely,
Janine Kai

Owner and Designer

Kai Expressions Jewelry

www.kaiexpressions.com
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www.twitter.com/kaiexpressions
http://www.kaiexpressions.blogspot.com/

Day of the Child 2010: A Day to Let Your Hair Down And Appreciate A Smiling Face

2010-11-16T17:59:00.000-08:00

This was my first opportunity to attend Children Uniting Nations' 12th annual Day of the Child. The Los Angeles based non-profit is an organization dedicated to improving the lives of at-risk and foster youth through positive mentoring and academic advocacy. The goal of the day is to quite simply bring joy to a group of children that need a little extra light shining in their lives...

Dozens of buses arrived filled with deserving children ranging from young to teenage, all equally excited to participate in a day designed truly for them. The one requirement: let go and have some fun! Each child was matched with a mentor for the day that was dedicated to give them much needed one-on-one attention for the entire afternoon. Dive down a gigantic slide, lose your lunch on the spinning sensation, get your face painted, jump on the ferris wheel -- whatever the kids wanted, the sky was the limit!

This year's event was hosted at the Star Eco Station, where the kids were also able to see rescued animals that also need some extra love - such as aligators, reptiles and parrots..

A sea of over 1,000 mentors and volunteers gave their time - some new comers, some attending for over a decade, and I tell you the adults were just as inspired as some of the kids. This one quote best captures the emotion for the day: “My mentee said, "I'm glad i have you as a mentor this year! I'm having so much fun" Then when we had to say our good-byes, he looked in his backpack, took out an airplane and said, "Here. This is a souvenir for you to remember me." =') I will NEVER forget this day!!” - Mentor at Day of the Child

I second that sentiment. I witnessed so many beautiful children that were able to bond with their assigned mentee for the day - within hours. I saw tears at the buses as each parted ways. The image I see most? Smiles. Face painted smiles, cotton candy sticky smiles of sheer joy, smiles of appreciation, smiles of 'this-is-my-day-and-I'm-absolutely lovin it!' And you know, a lot of those smiles were from the "bigger" kids!

Thank you to Children Uniting Nations' and all its supporters for an amazing experience. For at least one day, I learned to just let me hair down and devote myself to helping someone else have a little fun. It was an up lifting experience that I will hold on to for quite some time. It was even worth getting a little green in the face on the rides to make my mentee happy -- and THAT's what it's all about!

This Time, It's Personal...

2010-10-27T22:21:00.000-07:00

For years we have increased the notion of customization, and nowadays it is no longer an option but a mandate. Burger King's mantra of "have it your way" has infiltrated far beyond food to select options on your car to even custom 'his & her' heat settings on your mattress. And why shouldn't you have things the way you like it? As a culture we work harder, and we deserve to spend our earnings exactly the way we want to!

What hasn't caught on as much as one would think is customizing your jewelry. Before Kai Expressions came into my life, I like most accessory shoppers used to depend on the department store buyers to know my taste and what colors were in my closet. I would follow the styles dictated by fashion magazines but never had much flexibility in adding my own personality to my collection... until I became my own designer. I tell you what - I will never go back again!!

Several of my clients have gotten hip to the game and their creative innovations are worth noting:

"Carrie's" Challenge: Looking for a long necklace set she could dress up or dress down to match her denim jeans. Kai Expressions created a 36" necklace from Czech fire polished faceted glass beads in a rich denim blue spaced with tan rounds to match the seams. Carrie loved seeing her own idea come to life!

"Erica" was feeling funky and requested a chunky, bright canary yellow earring & necklace set. We soon discovered few gems are bright yellow by nature, and few beaderies carry chunky yellow anything! (Hmm... this must be what spurred the request!) An indepth search online and throughout Downtown LA led us to some fantastic canary resins that accompanied Erica on a European adventure the day after she opened her new treasure!

"Chad" and his wife just had a brand new baby girl. He was looking for a memorable gift to both mark the new chapter in their lives, but also elate his wife after a trying delivery. We briefly discussed what he was looking for, and it was a unanimous decision to create a unique piece fusing both birthstones of mother and daughter: Amethyst and Ruby. The finished piece went beyond expectations, and the brand new mother fell in love all over again!

(Original Bracelet) (Final Bracelet)

"Cynthia" was probably the most interesting request of all. She found a handcrafted bracelet and wanted Kai Expressions to stretch it into a bracelet, necklace and earring set. (Yes, you read that right!) Our quest was either to find the Murano style glass beads in the bracelet, or comparable siblings that could marry well with the original cast.

Rest assured, the task was accomplished, and Cynthia was just thrilled she could now be coordinated with her rare find.

All of these projects have made me scratch my head at times, but the challenge is exciting and I love the end result. We have also worked on more conservative original designs, such as custom charm bracelets for graduation, birthday and new mom. Our custom portfolio also includes a handful of bridal collections, which has been extremely rewarding to be part of such wonderful memories. Our brides love the fact they no longer have to spend precious time hunting for matching color schemes, and their bridesmaids love the unique 'thank you gift' they can reflect on for years to come.

For more examples of creativity, visit our Kai Keepsakes portfolio, specializing in custom packages for a variety of occasions.

My message to you? Get out there and take your jewelry "outside of the box!" (Pun intended.) You will have fun with the one-of-a-kind imprint you can create. We would love to see what you come up with!

Connecting with Kids

2010-08-20T01:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I embarked on a new volunteer opportunity - and fell in love. With reading. To kids. The organization is called just that, Reading to Kids, where volunteers meet once a month on a Saturday morning at various Mid-City schools in Los Angeles. Readers are divided among groups of children from kindergarten through fifth grade, and they are absolutely adorable. With a partner, volunteers read a pre-selected book that is read the same day at all seven locations. After the story is finished, an arts and crafts project follows inspired by the story.

A big fan of the little ones, I was matched with a handful of kindergartners and we read the old classic, "There's a Nightmare In My Closet." It was so refreshing to see the excitement in their eyes as you engaged with each one, "what do you think is going to happen," or "what do you think you would do?" Each child, no matter how shy, was able to participate and connect in a way that I had not expected. The purity, the genuine interest, the natural rush of what was going to happen... I think just being there with them and watching them get into the day gave me more satisfaction than they got. And that's what it's all about, right?

Being excited about creating excitement is every (good) educator's motto. I have an immense amount of respect for all teachers and administrators that dedicate their lives on a daily basis to planting the seeds of imagination and cultivating our youth. I admire the volunteers maybe even more so that continue to give of their time only to be paid with the tingle of knowing they made an impact, no matter how small, no matter how long it may take to manifest.

If you like spending time with children and are located in Los Angeles, I highly recommend you look into this organization. If you are in another city, explore what options are available to interact directly with kids. I realize these days time is a precious commodity, but I can guarantee it will be worth it. For a little less sleep that day, or in place of a couple of watching a couple of tv shows, you will walk away with a feeling of accomplishment and knowing that you are helping to shape a generation of kids that need your attention, encouragement and vibrant energy. It just may be contagious...

Back in the Day: Accessories That Just Don't Die

2010-08-20T00:22:00.000-07:00

I am in the midst of planning a "Back In The Day" 60's party for my parents, and the road down memory lane has been a blast.

Step One: Purchased an afro wig (cheapest I have found in all of LA) and some funky glasses (50's Cats-eye and 60's Lennon) and a far out "1970s" pendant from:
Halloween Costumes

Step Two: Visited local Salvation Army and vintage stores for additional artifacts, including old records and even a bottle of molasses from 1950! Found a 99% silver 1950 quarter too - amazing what you can find in these old stores.

Step Three: Found some excellent Peace focal points to make some fabulous handcrafted earrings for an added Kai Expressions touch!

Step Four: Perused online sites for 'back in the day' slang for this invite: "Can you dig, it? {Pops} is going to be 60! Solid!! We’re going to party like it’s 1959, 1969 and 1979. So bring your good times and watusi your platform shoes down memory lane for the party of the year that is sure to be boss! Come give us some skin and feel the funk as {he} kicks off his birthday week. Won't cost you no bread, man. Go-go, afro picks, poodle skirts, and bell bottoms are the cat’s meow, sho’ you right. You'll flip your wig if you miss this bash! Be there or be square! No jiving, this event will be the most! Can you make it? Right on! See ya later daddio…"

Step Four: Let loose and have some good old fashioned fun!

It's been great to be imaginative and let the creative juices flow. Stay tuned for an update after the "shin dig goes down!" So as our baby boomers start to hit their milestones, take advantage of your resources, and enjoy making some great memories!

Not Your Grandmother's Pearls

2010-07-21T21:39:00.000-07:00

Pearls have had a pivotal place in the jewelry box for decades. Some passed along from mother to daughter to daughter's daughter, classical wedding and gala attire, perfect right-of-passage gift to commemorate any and all special occasions. But grandma's pearls have come a long way baby... These aquatic treasures are busting out of the mold into more contemporary every day wear, and fashionistas around the world are loving it!

Trendsetting First Lady, Michelle Obama, has made fashion waves since she and the president graced American hearts raising the bar on marriage, family, and of course, couture! Mrs. Obama represents the out most class with a moderate style that embodies her ubiquitous position as the most powerful woman in the world. A true fashion diva, she is often seen with the universal double strand white pearl strands, a prerequisite for the corporate professional and more conservative fashionistsa that is more of a "Charlotte." Mrs. Obama can do no wrong in my eyes when it comes to fashion and setting a prime example for leading a nation with her head held high.

Enter "Carrie." SJP has long since been the fashion icon raising the bar down every red carpet, be it a floral arrangement coming out of her hat or ruffles galore, no one can deny her highness turns heads. Here Sarah Jessica Parker adds her own unique touch to the classic pearl set, going bold, bronze and long. A piece like this could be worn as she sports with a casual sweater, or to hit the town giving life to a simple cocktail dress. With incredible dye techniques freshwater pearls today come in a variety of hues, shapes and sizes. They are affordable, they can be dressed up or down, and they have just become your new best friend. Fortunately, they are no longer just for dress up any more...

Several jewelers are mixing up textures and stones bridging the classic pearl to modern generations. Mandy Moore looks dashing in a 'tuxedo style' set sporting black and white tones. Note the length of the necklace breathes life into a simple strapless black dress, and paired with studs the necklace stands on its own to carry the outfit into a red carpet "do." Below Malinda Williams features the up-and-coming twisted strands of pearls that add a fun and sophisticated splash for any occasion.

As the saying goes, the world is your oyster (pun intended). Take advantage of the great canvas of freshwater and cultured pearl out there. Mix them with some colorful semi-precious stones. Wrap them in wire for a fun wearable-art ring. One-of-a-kind jewelery designers are waiting for you (as are retailers at your neighborhood department store.) Tip #1: I learned from a trip to China that when you rub real pearls together, they should have a slightly rough connection. If there is a smooth rub, be careful, they are likely glass. Tip #2: Have fun with it! Wear a pair of studs to the gym or to keep the kids at bay, then change it up for an evening out with some dangling chandeliers. Go for it!

A variety of pearls are available at kaiexpressions.com

Outshining Carrie's Star...

2010-06-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Well the buzz this weekend among 20, 30, 40 and even 50-somethings were all around the same thing: the long awaited arrival of Sex And The City: 2. Shows were sold out nationwide, emphasizing the immense impact four ladies from Manhattan (and Brooklyn) can have across age, socio-economic and racial boundaries.

Sex-And-The-City-Weekends were blooming everywhere especially here in Los Angeles. I decided to make it a full What-Would-Carrie-Do-Day and hit the luxurious Hollywood Spa Luce basking in sun, poolside daiquiris and the beauty of "girl time." And then it was off to City Walk for a lil of The Big Apple on the big screen. My impression? The girls were definitely back in town, and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey catching us up on the last two years through stale marriages, stressed out motherhood, work balance struggles, and yes, even hot flashes. The ladies stayed true to their original characters and were more or less relatable to a diverse crowd of girls (and boys) that just want to have fun.

Where does the magic come from? A huge portion: the fashion! Trendsetting Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda have been raising the style bar for over a decade, but it was the unlikely of the quartet that stole the fashion stage: Miranda. From the opening scene the red headed sharp shooter sauntered out in a butternut toned draped dress that diverted eyes from the usual couture contenders. Miranda's character continued to be a rock to her sometimes wayward friends, hosting one of the funniest "Sip!" scenes where she gets Charlotte to finally shed her high expectations of perfect motherhood and illustrate the power of letting loose with your girls and being yourself, in all shapes and forms. Walking away from the film it was Miranda who left a lasting impression, showing a diamond in the rough can most certainly give way to a true gem.

While Ms. Bradshaw (Preston??) continues to lead as a fashion icon, she had just a few too many "what is she wearing?!" whispers to don her crown as the diva to die for. Miranda managed to show a little less effort which catapulted her right to the top of Manhattan's Mount Olympus of the fashion gods. She deserves the title, and Miranda, work it mama!

Giving from the heart...

2010-05-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

In trying times, one is often bombarded with various organizations that need donations, and deservedly so. Unemployment continues to keep revenues at a stalemate, natural disasters paralyze already suffering communities. Fundraisers are at an all time high, as with celebrities outreaching for text-to-donate for their foundation. I often wish I could just be like Donald Trump and donate 1000's at a whim to every needy cause that crosses my path, and I look forward to that day when business is booming and we can all dig a little deeper and help each other as 'good samaritans' were intended.

However, I know that day is not here yet. And I know that as much as we would like to donate giving is becoming more and more difficult for millions. So, what can the person give who just doesn't have enough to spare?

Your heart. I spent the afternoon yesterday with a group of whole-hearted women who did just that, spreading inspiration and joy to children all over the world. I attend my first event with Women Empowered where we rolled up our sleeves and created dozens of greetings for Cards for Kids. "Cards for Kids creates handmade and painted cards for children facing poverty, homelessness, or difficult circumstances: the kids are affiliated with organizations worldwide. The countries that the cards are sent to include Guatemala, the Philippines, Tanzania, Kenya, Eastern Europe (Ukraine), and the United States. The cards and messages inside brighten the children's day and bring smiles to their faces."

It was truly an uplifting experience for all involved. We turned on the tunes, busted out the construction paper and glitter and put Martha Stewart herself to shame. The bonding experience bridged like-minded women on the move from all walks of life focused on the mission of sending a ray of hope to someone who may have never received a pat on the back or words of encouragement.

The day was truly a reminder that even the smallest gift of kindness - your words - can make a difference in your life and the lives of those within your reach. Programs like Cards for Kids increases that reach with the realization that you can motivate anyone around the world. The only thing it requires is for you to show up and care.

Kai Expressions looks forward to working with local organizations such as Women Empowered and is making preparations for our partnership with the Downtown Women's Center. We currently donate a portion of all sales, replicated from a similar program in Boston that amounted to $800 donated to Rosie's Place. Stay tuned, and we invite you to find your own niche to get involved...

My Crib Sheet: Kai Expressions

2010-05-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

See below for a one-on-one interview with Kai Expressions designer and founder, Janine Robinson:

What is your business?

Kai Expressions excels in unique handcrafted jewelry and is dedicated to providing high quality one-of-a-kind designs with humble pricing. Our latest branch, Kai Keepsakes, specializes in customized pieces, such as custom wedding ensembles and charm bracelets. We honor varied cultures and diversity, and you will see that our collections suit a broad variety of tastes. In addition to promoting culture, at Kai Expressions we also take pride in elevating self-esteem and uplifting the community. We were proud to develop a philanthropic program donating over $800 to a sanctuary for poor and homeless women in Massachusetts, and look forward to expanding the program in Southern California at the Downtown Women's Center. Additionally, we have made donations to various other organizations that focus on health, education and finding homes for women and children.

What motivated you to start your business?

I have had a creative nature since a was a small child, always using drawing or writing to express myself since I was able to hold a pencil! My company actually started with custom handcrafted event favors since I was always creating small gifts for family affairs. My first check as an entrepreneur was for creating 50 custom mint tins for a bachelorette party! Eventually the winds shifted and I began creating earrings after a brief trip to Michael's. I take great pride in creating a work of art with my own two hands, no matter how small, how personal, how intricate. Jewelry is an extension of this passion to create uniqueness, and accessorizing is the outmost form of self expression!

How long have you been running your business?
My business began in 2005, and I received my first official business certificate in 2006. I am working on a five year anniversary kick off celebration... stay tuned!

How long would you say it took you to make a profit/become successful (however you choose to measure success)?
My jewelry had a slow start and really didn't begin to take legs for about a year and a half when I started selling at craft fairs. By then my designs had sharpened and the variety of pieces I created increased from just earrings to full sets, bracelets, earring frame holders and wine charms. By consistently participating in one location and gathering a mailing list I was able to create a following and continued relationships with my clients.

How did your family react to you starting your own business?
My family was and still is extremely supportive of my business. They have been involved from the very start, ranging from voting on the name, testing out designs and many have spent hours with set up, take down and being fully present at events. I never once felt I was in over my head and my family was right there with me as I lifted Kai Expressions off the ground.

Easiest part of the job?

Creating the designs. I love to look for the most unique and luxurious looking beads and crystals and honestly have a ball when it comes to creating my jewelry. And the best part? Expanding my own jewelry collection!

Hardest part of the job?
Exposure. People who see my jewelry love it, but increasing the number of people that are able to see it, touch it, wear it is a challenge. I do have a great website, however, I have found that in purchasing jewelry many would like to see it in person, and photos don’t always do the right justice. I have been working on growing our fan base with social networks, which is fun for me but difficult when I know people are flooded with “online overload” these days.

What skill would you most like to improve?
Networking. I believe I have a great foundation for my business, and a great product, but I would like to let more people know what I have to offer. Some higher profile clients would also be a great asset a I continue to grow in Southern California.

What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Following through. I have had two big changes that effected my business: 1.) the economy and 2.) moving across the country. Both have had an impact on buying trends and a shift in my client base. I have seen other business fall but am proud that Kai Expressions is still holding strong, and the creativity is only improving. I have my clients, fan base and family to thank for that.

What tools or advice do you wish you knew then that you know now?

I wish I had laid out a business plan from the start. Because it started as more of a hobby, I have had to piece together a plan of action. I recently stumbled across a great book, The Guided Business Plan by Melanie Rae, that has been really helpful in getting my thoughts, marketing, targets and vision together. If I had it 4 or5 years ago I think the initial journey may not have been so bumpy.

Inspiration?
My upbringing has inspired me to do whatever I set my mind to.

Least likely to…
…give up creating!

My life…
... has only just begun. I look forward to the wonderful memories and accomplishments that lay ahead...

What’s your top tip for a women looking to go into business?
Go for it! You have a passion and it's ready to be released. You will be rewarded with the sacrifice of hard work and cherished time. Organize, deep, and dive in...

Crafter to CEO: Ready to turn your hobby into a business?

2010-05-21T21:32:00.000-07:00

So you have been honing your craft and now you are ready for customer exposure. Congratulations -- you ARE ready, and this confidence is the hardest step. Next items of business: get informed, get organized, and get started.

Research the various vehicles for reaching an audience. Ecommerce is still holding on, and while visibility may be a challenge, access online is a great start. You will need to consider 1.) how your potential customers can view your business and 2.) how you can outreach to an increased audience. Etsey.com is an example of showcasing handcrafted products - you can create your own weblink from their site (i.e. potential customers can access your business via a link you provide) and you can post your business for access to general Etsey viewers. Zibbet.com is another option. Ebay is another avenue to sell your merchandise for low overhead costs, although bare in mind your competition maybe vast. There are also sites that showcase various artists, such as experiencenations.com, for increased exposure. Classifieds may also work for you, such as Craig's List -- you will need to incorporate photos of your work, however, this tool will have a short shelf-life. And of course, a blog is your best bet to continually engage with your fan base. Once you get your business more established, creating your own ecommerce website will be most beneficial to manage the look and feel for your business and garner a steadfast reputation. There are several web developers that can provide templates and recommend Merchant account providers that will allow you to set up a shopping cart. The monthly fees can add up, which is why leveraging an existing network first might be more economical.

Another outlet to research is face-to-face exposure. As widely as ecommerce is growing, some customers still need to touch and feel your product in person. Craft fairs are an excellent opportunity to reach new audiences and build your client base. Sites such as craftlister.com can help identify shows in your area, as well as contacting local city halls or a Google search. Holiday fairs are huge, and in warm weather outdoor fairs and farmer's markets attract heavy traffic. Space gets filled up, so you will need to do your research and apply several months in advance. With a few supplies such as a tent (suggest a $90 investment at Wal-Mart) a couple of tables (for example $40 6 foot tables at Staples), and customized marketing materials (from vendors such as vistaprint.com) you are well on your way to making it happen. Once you get into the circuit, speak to your fellow vendors about other shows they are familiar with, as they are essentially your greatest resource. Bring a sign up sheet to develop a mailing list and continue to be visible with your now interested audience. Vendors who can accept credit cards will at an advantage (you can check with your bank for options, such as merchant accounts with Citizens or Bank of America). You may also tap into local restaurants and stores (i.e. consignment shops) who would be willing to let you temporarily set up a display or event for a targeted audience.

When you are ready to establish your business, be sure to research your state laws. You will need verify a unique name and have it registered with your city hall. You may wish to consider a tax id and set up a separate business account. You should investigate what sales taxes you will need to pay and how best to transfer this per each transaction. There are many steps once you get started, which is why spending some time upfront to gather information and get organized will be well worth your time. I recommed the BizExpress Toolbar for a one-stop-shop set of links to get you started, particularly in California, provided by the Guided Business Plan. This will help avoid being overwhelmed and give you more energy to the one aspect that can get overlooked: enjoying the activity that kept you relaxed and creative originally. Give in to your innovative spirit, but be sure to enjoy the benefits of today's entrepreneurs at the same time. Good luck, and keep at it!

Signature Beauty: Unleash Your Diva Within

2010-04-15T19:44:00.000-07:00

Last week I attended the star studded premiere screening party for LisaRaye McCoy’s new reality series, LisaRaye: The Real McCoy, debuting this month on TV One. The Standard Hotel in downtown LA was bustling with Hollywood Hitters all there to support the lady of the hour. The show chronicles the daily adventures of LisaRaye and her teenage daughter, Kai, as they return to Los Angeles and continue with their celebrity-meets-reality lives. You may recognize LisaRaye from her television sitcom, All of Us, or her appearances in The Player’s Club, Beauty Shop and The Wood. Me, I first envision her phenomenal billboards illustrating the amazing Caribbean shores of Turks and Caicos where she stood in white surrounded by a turquoise sea (she was formerly First Lady). The ad was breath taking, and highlights Ms. McCoy’s exquisite and subtle natural beauty.

It’s this inner essence that captured me most of all about LisaRaye’s new show. Right from the start you see she is the first to proclaim her well-deserved diva-ness, but it is her unique charm that will pave her path back into the spotlight. LisaRaye has nothing but love for her daughter and her unbridled care and devotion resonated off the screen. Though she has her own way of expression, her relationship with Kai (including drilling her new boyfriend and popping up at her job to check in with her manager personally!) will drive the show and create a new fan base relating to single moms dealing with similar (though less glitzy) issues.

LisaRaye’s distinct allure is also due to her obsession to ONLY wear white! Her entire closet showed white literally from head to toe, stating ‘I look good in white, that’s what I am rocking.’ A bold move and it must drive her stylist crazy, but I admire her stance and knowing how to work what she’s got. Looking like a Grecian Goddess I watched her as she spoke to the audience, a white off-the shoulder dress enhanced with crystals, LisaRaye was stealing the show with her radiance and I got to thinking, what is my signature?

Naturally, as a designer I am known for adorning jewels even to the grocery store, but I started wondering what I would wear to create my own signature? It’s a unique concept that is worth exploring. You may have noticed I adore maroon and gold – perhaps I will weave this color scheme into my every day garb. Or like actress Niecey Nash, who sports a signature flower in her hair, maybe my favorite calla lilly will spread seeds through my appearance. The idea goes back to the days of 1970's Laverne DeFazio who rocked the infamous script “L” on her blouse. I challenge you to think about what symbolizes you, and how you can leave a fashion imprint that embodies your inner beauty. Take the nod from LisaRaye, and unleash your diva within!

For more information on LisaRaye McCoy, check out her blog or IMDb profile.

Welcome to Kai Expressions Blog!

2010-04-10T01:54:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Kai Expressions Blog, your insight to contemporary fashion and unique trends to bring out your true inner essence and stand out from the crowd!

This blog will highlight upcoming fashion trends and special tricks from the industry. We will pull from our research and social networking sites providing you one stop connection to stay ahead of the latest styles. You will also have access to sales and special offers, as well as Kai Expressions' take on events.

Kai Expressions specializes in unique handcrafted jewelry with a dedication to grandeur expression through artistic designs. Using all natural materials such as semi-precious stones, freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystal, glass and sterling silver, Kai Expressions has been hailed coast to coast for an ability to create artful pieces worn for all occasions. We honor our social responsibility and support several philanthropic projects giving back to the community.

Visit our online networks and stay connected in our online communities!

http://www.kaiexpressions.com/

www.twitter.com/kaiexpressions

www.yelp.com/biz/kai-expressions-redondo-beach

www.flickr.com/photos/kaiexpressions