Wednesday, April 18, 2012

My Three Sons Designs: Onesies, Bibs, T's and Home Goods with Nostalgic Charm



Jen Byard is an artist who draws her inspiration from vintage motif, creative cool, and anything that is a nod to that which “reminds parents of their past.” Her custom line of products for babies, kids, and home are offered through her company, My Three Sons, and are a big dose of happy.

“I try to follow my instincts when creating new products. I always ask myself whether I would use the item myself,” shares Jen. How could you not? Her onesies, bibs, and kids tshirts are adorable works of art that any parent would appreciate. Her line of kitchen towels make a unique statement in any home.

On participating in today’s LVCreative popUPshop: “I love finding new venues to participate in with other local artists. I appreciate the work and creative expression they put out in their products and love sharing mine as well. I think it's important to give the community the opportunity to buy locally and get to know the artists in their area.”

Today Blessed? YES! Meet Fellow Flower Twirler Carla Bassi of Che Bella


Breathtaking. Amorous. Relevant. Che Bella - how beautiful - is the work of esteemed floral artists Carla and Jim Bassi. Creating custom botanical design that sings to the hearts and minds of their customers has proudly directed their work for over 10 years.

Carla and Jim bring thought and meaning to every aspect of their professional play. “We pay homage to the history of giving flowers,” explained Carla. “Our passion comes from the unique story that each customer brings to the intention of their purchase.” This edict, married with a deep understanding of horticulture and the medium with which they work, yields creations that are not only stunning in entirety but transform the environment in which they’re housed.

A customer of Che Bella is able to ask and s/he will receive. Whether it’s a gift for a loved one that expresses celebration or sympathy, or a piece for a work environment that visually interprets the mission of a company, Carla and Jim don’t disappoint. They’re excited to share beautiful creations for purchase at the LVCreative popUP Shop, and hope this opportunity facilitates the opportunity to establish new friendships.

We've poppedUP: The Studio Doors are O*P*E*N-- come join us! Photos Courtesy of Josh Aull, Post by Rebecca Gaffney



By Rebecca Gaffney, Co-Founder | Writer, Red Letter Days Events, LLC

I’ve had the pleasure of calling LaVonne my friend for several years. Her kind heart, thoughtful intelligence, and divinely-gifted creativity have always inspired me. In fact, they inspire everyone with whom she touches. Ask any artist, event professional, or client who has collaborated with LaVonne, and you’re met with a smile and “She’s amazing.”

She’s humble as well (which is why I’m writing this piece in my voice…LaVonne won’t brag about herself so I’ll do it for her). LaVonne is a stand for passion, excellence in craftsmanship, and realizing visions beyond expectation. Adorations Botanical Artistry is an extension of LaVonne and it’s her vehicle for actualizing aesthetic awareness, which is paramount to her. She states that the name “Adorations Botanical Artistry” was selected deliberately and carefully.

It’s with the governing values of Adorations in mind that LaVonne established LVCreative and its inaugural popUPshop. “We are like-minded artists who have a passion for raising awareness of nontraditional retail merchandising. We hold a vision of similar, sometimes identical, vendors, supporting one another in the spirit of community through mutual trust and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and quality.”

Excitement is stirring for today’s popUPshop, and the team of participating artists are anxious to share their work with its attendees. What a gratifying, happy experience for all, especially my friend, LaVonne, who we’re so proud of.

Shupaca: Fair Trade, Handcrafted Alpaca Wares are poppingUP Today!


When building a case for the sale of a product, incorporating “Just ask any Incan Emperor why only the royal families were allowed to wear it!” to the pitch creates an interesting hook. Meet Shupaca, a collection of designers, artists, entrepreneurs, and travelers who produce items, such as scarves, sweaters, socks, and blankets, made from Alpaca fur. What’s an Alpaca? It’s a super cute, friendly animal that’s native to the Andes mountain range in South America, similar to a Lama. Warm and fuzzy!

So are their products and the good work they practice with their company. The goal of Shupaca is to bring one of the world’s finest natural materials in uniquely designed and handcrafted goods while promoting fair trade and supporting social and economic advancement for the artisans they work with. They travel to South America to work with the indigenous people to create original designs of their own using the beautiful Incan custom of traditional weaving methods.

“We’re participating in the LVCreative popUPshop to support local artists, and feel that it’s a great opportunity to bring our creative worlds together,” shared Shupaca gal Lori Perri. A perfect fit it is indeed – the modern edge of this classic material adds a great dimension to the artistic pool of the inaugural popUPshop.

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Tim Altbaum Productions: Spinning Tunes at Tomorrow's popUPshop


Tim Altbaum Productions (TAP) is synonymous with professional excellence. And charm. And fun. Since 1998, Tim and his team of entertainment and décor specialists have delivered impeccable service for their clients that not only creates joyful memories but establishes life-long friendships and repeat customers of TAP. Simply put, Tim is excellent at his work.

Tim will join the team of artists participating in LVCreative’s popUP Shop to spin stimulating sounds from 5:00 – 8:00p. “The popUp Shop is a unique medium in which to showcase our services,” shared Tim.

Jennifer Rea Jewelry: Handcrafted Jewelry poppingUP at the Studio


Color is a powerful tool for inspiration and expression. The value it holds in the daily life and design of jewelry artist Jennifer Rea is what makes her work intriguing. “Inspiration for me is everywhere but usually starts with color palettes I’m drawn to,” explains Jennifer. “My designs are delicate, colorful, and usually a bit unexpected.”

With her impressive use of gold and silver metals, and semiprecious gemstones, Jennifer crafts earrings and necklaces that are designed to last a lifetime. Her work is quality, and is a unique juxtaposition of shape, light, and weight, all balanced to highlight her love of color. “My jewelry is a reflection of the colors I find to be most beautiful together. I believe it’s often the most unusual color combinations that turn out to be the most captivating.”

Jennifer looks forward to sharing some of her newest work at the LVCreative popUPshop, and to the opportunity to collaborate with other local San Diego artists trying to create a market for handmade art and design.

Lori's Homemade: The Ultimate Indulgence for any Cookie Gourmande and Available at Tomorrow's popUPshop!

Good food is able to make a person pause, reflect, remember, tingle, smile, and want more. Lori’s Homemade cookies do all of these things. It IS all that and a bag of chips…and a bowl of cherries...seriously.

Founded by photographer and baker Lori Krause as an homage to the life-long baking she has enjoyed with her mother, the Lori’s Homemade signature cookie – made with oatmeal, chocolate chips, and cherries – is love at first bite. Lori has tirelessly tested, re-tested, and then tested some more the ways and means to make this cookie, and she has perfected the quality and amount of ingredients to do so. Her cookies are made to order, specially packaged, and hand delivered with a personalized note from the sender. Haven’t bitten yet? Here’s something sweet: $1 from every dozen cookies sold is donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of Lori’s dear friend and all those challenged by the disease.

“I like to collaborate with other specialty businesses that take great pride in their products and business practices, the same way I do,” explained Lori. “Participating in the LVCreative popUPshop is a great way to expose my product and company to a broad group of new people!”