Checking In

Hey,

I just wanted to stop in and say hello.  Everything is going well and I am working on a ton of new projects.  I've been a little under the weather, but I'm back.  Since I have decided to stop drinking Pepsi (so sad) I may not post at night like usual, so bear with me.  To all the Mom's, "Happy Mothers Day".  That's it, and have a wonderful week.

Hugs,

Miss Kelli

The Prettier Side of Life

I think we all can agree that life is not easy, and more often than not quite complicated.  That's life.  But as I constantly have to remind myself, there is a prettier side to life.  The side I am speaking of is one of kindness and purity.  It's the moments when you feel the warm embrace of the sun, the free spirited beauty of the wind, and the lulling song of the earth.  We should all be a whole lot happier about the prettier side of life.  Think of how fortunate we all are.  Before you go to sleep at night set aside 5 minutes of time.  Allow yourself to hear the lulling of earths song. Open a window and feel the wholeness of the wind.  Until next time.

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Kelli

Checking In

Hey,

I just wanted to let everyone know that I am still around.  Tomorrow I will heading over to Blocks, where I will be purchasing our new roses and other flowers for the garden.  As far the collections go, everything is coming along great.  Hopefully once the weather cools down some, I will be able to finish some other projects.  Check back for more info and pictures.

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Kelli

Twenty Three Years Wiser

As I sit and reflect on the time now being 12:29 a.m. and the fact that on this very day at this very time, twenty three years ago, God was preparing me for my entrance into the world, I wonder?  I ponder whether or not I knew what I wanted to be, or who I was at the time?  Yeah that’s kind of silly.  I know.  But it’s the truth.  As I sit here right now listening to the melodic vocals of Amel Larrieux, embracing the INI, I say to the Greater Sprit, Thank You.  

We all have times in our life when we wonder why?  And more times than not how?  I myself have been guilty of this on more than 1 occasion.  But at the end of all the pondering and wondering, I know why.  Because just like everyone I have a purpose.  The Great Spirit shows me that everyday.  Even right now as I wonder what tomorrow will bring and if it means something greater?  I know I will learn a lesson that will somehow, some way make me wiser.  Fun or not.

I know tradition says not to share your wishes, but you know me.  Tradition only rules a small portion of my life.  My wish is for people to embrace and nurture one and other.  Provide a helping hand, give someone else a word or two of encouragement.  Call a friend and maybe a foe to say how are you.  Simple kindness is what I wish for.  Now keep in mind, I did not say be a door mat.  But just be kind.

In a world were there is so much trouble, there is even more greatness.  It’s within all of us.  Just search for it.  I stepped out of my comfort zone, away from the guilt of heavy weighted unhealthy responsibility, and went after my dreams.  No I’m not making the big bucks, nor am I a star, but I am living my dream.  When I look at my 96 year old Great Grand Dad, I hope that his longevity is passed on to me and that with Gods leadership and insight I can one day provide a wiser prospective to my own children and grands, and so on.  You get the drift.

This past year I have connected with family members I never really new, learned more about the greatness I have always proclaimed to come from (I was right), and of course became wiser.  As the elements line up and throw me off (we are all linked to earths energy, no weird stuff)  I feel the woman inside of me, the woman God designed me to be, come out and show herself.  It feels like just yesterday I was just a little girl with sausage curls, and here I am today a woman.  

Thank you to every one who has added to this journey, and to those in the future I thank you in advance.  I will continue to embrace who I truly am, my African, American Indian, and  French European blood.  I love who I am, and I thank the truly wiser spirit for giving  me the gift of creativity, and warmth.

Off to get some much needed rest and then have organic two layer cake.  Yes!  Look for more pictures and new items.

Remember to always embrace who you are.  If a history loving, cottage style loving little person like me can do it, so can you.

Happy Birthday April Babies!

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Kelli

25 Things About Miss Kelli

1.   I have faith, even when I’m partially in doubt.
2.   I love people, although I am quite shy.
3.   My favorite pastime is reading.
4. I love to Cook and Bake. 
5.   Geraldine and Esperance Roses are my favorites.
6.   I love taking pictures.
7. I think snow should fall year round in Michigan.
8. I love open spaces and air.
9. I see the beauty in things others do not.
10. Pink is my favorite color.
11.   I’m a workaholic.
12.   I like silent movies.
13.   I love the Victorian era.
14.   I’m a history buff.
15.   I love watermelon lemonade.
16.   I love Model T pickups.
17.   My favorite singer is Amel Larrieux 
18.   My favorite author is Beverly Jenkins
19.   I love classical music
20.   My favorite movie is Miss Potter
21.   I love vintage clothing.
22.   I collect Barbies.
23.   I’m a Romantic at heart.
24.   My first love is designing spaces.
25.   I  can sing.

Any questions?  Just ask.

Pretty Things to Come

Hey,

Just stopping in to say hello.  Hope everyone is doing well.  I'm working my buns off, trying to get everything ready and in order.  My web classes finally began so that's something else added to my plate.  Of course I am also working hard to get all of the new lines ready for sale.  Check out the new header.  Not perfect, but it's to the point.  Please visit the Boutique to see new items.  The new handbag you see in the header is apart of the Tickle Your Fancy Chic collection.  It's been waiting for it's debut.  The bags will run about $50.00 each, and are even prettier in person.  I'm taking pre-orders by e-mail.  Send your request to bijoubeauteintltd@yahoo.com.  As always be blessed and have a wonderful week.  By the way Mom gave me a new SLR for my B-Day.  Thanks Mom!

Creatively Speaking,

Miss Kelli

Excited and Sleepy

Hey,

It's me again.  Hope everyone is doing well.  It has been raining all day here.  No complaining here.  The new site is moving forward.  New items are being loaded this week.  I have a special giveaway going on right now, check it out.  Let me know what you think.  I hope to make some changes around here soon.  A flower here and there you know.  That's all for tonight, but as always sleep tight, have beautiful dreams, and enjoy your week.  

Creatively Speaking,

Miss Kelli

By the way.  Yes I will be reposting a new picture of myself.  Just one that looks better.  You know, no dark circles and lazy grins. Lol

I just Can't Let it Go

I just can't let this blog go.  Although the new Blog-tique (is that cute?)  is ready, I still feel the need to post my journals here.  It's comfortable you know.  Any who,  I have decided to keep posting here.  What can I say?  I signed up for my web design classes today.  Yippie!  To say I am excited in a understatement.  Soon I will know the ends and outs of website designing, and so much more.  I hope!  Things are looking good though.  New classes will be posted over at the store by the end of April.  I cannot wait to start teaching again.  There is something exciting about watching people learn something the first time.  Every one's happy.  Well, it's back to the drawing board good folks.  I have a pile of applications awaiting me.  Can you believe it's market season again?  I'm just happy to be done working for Corporate America.  Yes I am living my dream.  On that note, I hope all of you are living your dream or striving towards it.  For all dreams can be a reality with an abundance of faith, and a lot of hard work.  Have beautiful week.  

Be Blessed, 

Miss Kelli (Bijou)

P.S.  The roses above were my Easter treat to myself.  Organic Blush Roses.  Can you believe Great Spirit created something some beautiful?  I am truly thankful for my life and all that is afforded to me.  Even the things that may seem negative at the time, are turned into positive lessons by the Great Spirit.  Not to offend anyone.  Just sharing what is in my heart.

Hello My Darlings

Hello,

Just checking in.  Hope everyone is doing well.  I am the queen of clumsy today.  It all began this morning when I flipped over a can of pop, then dropped a runaway paper towel roll, only to be followed by stumping my toe, almost flooding my bathroom with bath water, and then burning the you know what out of my fingers.  Why me?  I found it interesting that there is a full moon tonight, which usually means I am going to do something hazardous one way or another, hence my roller coaster day.  Gosh darn atmosphere energy!  Any who, on a lighter note, the new blogtique is almost complete.  I finally had a chance to purchase my copy of The Farm Chicks book, which is very cute.  Anyone else purchase it yet?  Also bought my copy of Marie Antoinette, which in my opinion was worth the money.  

Well my pretties, it's back to sewing land.  I have last minute orders to complete for easter.  Maybe I will post some pictures after the holiday.  Keep checking back for new information.  I will also be uploading new coupons in recognition of the new Blogtique and my B-Day.  

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Bijou

Link Trouble

Hey,

It was brought to my attention that our boutique links are not working.  Bare with me, please.  Sorry about any inconvenience.  The new site will be ready soon.  Until then please follow the links below.

www.lollishops.com/bijoubeaute

www.bijoubeauteintltd.etsy.com

Thanks,

Miss Bijou

What's Happening

Hey,

Quick update.  The new blog boutique is coming along very well.  I'm so excited beyond control.  Keep checking back for updates and hints.  There will be a new contest soon.  Be sure to leave comments and feedback.  Go ahead, don't be afraid.  I will not bite.  Promise.  Hey, have you seen the new copy of Stampington's Marie Magazine?  It is so pretty and very expensive, but worth it.

Be Blessed,

Miss Bijou

New Books and things.

Hey,  

Just thought I'd let you know, I've finally updated the Tickled Pink Book Boutique.  You can purchase the new Farm Chicks book, stationary from Cath Kidston and much more.  By the way stop by and visit my cousins new website www.shoptoearn.net/crystal22.  She's a very sweet lady who's trying to get her web business going.  Lets all show her some love and support.  Women owned businesses rock.  No offense Men.

Be Blessed,

Miss Bijou

Baking as a form of therapy?

Yep.  No need to pay for a shrink when you've got a oven and enough recipes to last you a life time.  Just Bake.  Although the past few weeks for me have been very trying, I can honestly say that today, after making a savory homestyle beef stew and yummy scratch butter rolls.  I'm feeling good.  I feel like wonder woman, superwoman, and every other female superhero wrapped up in one.  Tazy the poodle didn't complain either.  He likes organic beef, just as much as everyone else in the household.  Did I mention the meal was semi-organic?  You all know how I feel about that.  Seeing that we are trying to make a full transition.  

On another note, things are coming along as far as the website.  Soon all of you will be able to purchase products and sign up for classes online.  Sweet, right?  I cannot wait.  Of course this means I have to have all the new listings and photos ready to go.  By the way, in honor of my B-Day, we are hosting a special sale at the store, the weekend of April 19th.  No I will not tell my age.  Although if you read the news article, from the Detroit Free Press last summer, you might be able to find out.  You know the article about the young designer and market manager.

Well, it's back to work my lovelies.  Or perhaps, sleep.  My mini vacation is over.  No more staying up late reading juicy novels and watching Anne of Green Gables.  I know, I'm pathetic.  But I still want to try the infamous non-alcoholic Raspberry Cordial.  I shall not have any of Marilla's (sp?) wine.  Poor Diana Berry.  Until the next time we speak, be blessed.  And remember to check back soon.  Does anyone else love old reruns of Anne of Green Gables?  Maybe even Road to Avonlea?  Let me know.  I would love to hear your story.

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Bijou

It's raining, it's pouring

Greetings,

My lord how time has flown.  It seems like just a while ago we were getting non stop snow (which I loved) and now here comes spring.  The month of April is roaring in like a lion and showing out.  We took a drive out to Monroe today, where things started off pretty and quaint.  Yeah, for like an hour.  Then we come out of the store, it's pitch black dark outside and thundering.  If you grew up in Michigan and are from the boonies or burbs, you know that spells out major storm.  Of course I wanted to stop for some yummy chicken.  Bad idea!  Mom and I were greeted by a massive down pour as we left the restaurant.  Worst than that we had to get on 75 with a bunch of crazy drivers.  Thankfully we made it home in one piece, of course I was too pooped to do anymore sewing.  I think I will take advantage of the lulling sound of the rain.  Maybe I can get a few hours of sleep.  I will post new pictures from the shop and collections soon.  As always, thanks so much for stopping by, and I promise to give you guys some refreshing information soon.  And yes I will start posting helpful business tips soon.  I have so many I don't know where to start.  If you have any questions post them. By the way,  Shabby Chic has closed.  We still have the target line you guys.  I will truly miss Rachel Ashwell's beautiful creations and finds.  

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Bijou

Burning the Midnight Oil

Hey,

I just wanted to check in with all of you and say hello.  No I have not forgot about you.  I've been working like a mad woman to get the new collections completed once and for all.  So far there are three new handbags, kitchen towels galore, and finally, drum roll please.  Clothes pin sets.  Yippie.  Oh yeah, I'm debuting two new apron designs in the boutique next week.  I may list them on lollishops and etsy if they don't fly off the mannequin as soon as I put them up.  You know it's very possible.  Anywho, it's 5:30 a.m. and I have not been to sleep, at all.  Sorry for crazy phrases and misspelled words.  Love ya.  Mean it.  Hopefully everyone is resting and starting off to a great day.  Get some rest and be blessed.  New photos and a contest coming soon.  It may be for some sweet shabby kitchen towels.

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Bijou

Sad News, Many Blessings

Recently I learned a favorite designer of mine was going through some major trouble with her  company, and all I can say is that I felt bad for her.  Really bad.  As a designer and artist I know how tough it is to get your ideas out there and have people believe in you, so to loose all that in a matter of months cannot be fun.  Hopefully Ms. Ashwell, the jump starter of Shabby Chic and all of its sister brands will pull through.  To those who have left mean spirited comments on other media outlet websites, shame on you.  In a day in age when so many are loosing so much no matter what race, gender, or financial class, you would think that more people would be careful about what they say.  You never know, you could be next.  So to Rachel Ashwell I say God Bless and move forward.  You have a load of supporters rallying around you, and we believe in you.

Blessings, 

Rate Our Space

Hi,

Right quick, please go over to HGTV's rate my space and vote for us.  

www.roomzaar.com:80/rate-my-space/Other-Spaces/Romantic-Roses/detail.esi?oid+6587106

Update!

It seems that there were some people on the rate my space sight who could not handle the competition.  Honestly for me you guys, I just wanted to share my beautiful photos.  I don't make money from small competitions like that, I earn it by working hard and creating quality goods.  To all of those who supported us and left positive comments, I thank you.  Your warm kind hearted words will bring you joy and peace in life.  Remember, one hater can not and will not stop me from doing what I love do.  Anyways, I'm done venting, back to positive things.  By the way we had 126 hits just yesterday alone, all high scores except for the one vermin.  Don't worry I see you.  God bless you.  It must be hard holding some much hate inside.

Love you guys,

Miss Bijou

New Items!

See at Lollishops.com

The Yellow House that Could

Finally, here is a photo of the Yellow House that could.  Or so we hope.  This is the current headquarters for Bijou Beaute.  Here is where we design, refinish, and will soon be teaching classes.  We invite everyone to come and see us anytime.  For the past month we have had many visitors stop by, most nice and some not.  That's reality.  We in no way have any affliation to prier businesses that were once located in our spot, and yes we are a Small Business Corporation.  

Many people have asked whether or not we will be filling our store store to the brim, like many others?  The answer is no.  First reason being that I cannot stand clutter, and I don't like to see things, especially antique or vintage, get broken.  When I go to a store or boutique, I like to look at things and not worry about breaking or tripping over something.  So with that said, we are keeping things light and flowing, and of course pretty.  Being junky is not cool.  

Be Blessed,

Miss Bijou

Being sick isn't so bad...

Being sick is no fun and that's what I have been for the past day and a half.  Of course for me the always business phase of mind worry wart, being sick is usually worse.  But I introduce to you, my baby Taz.  When the chips are down and there's no fun around, he comes and looks at you just as pictured above.  How can this sweet look not make you feel better?  For the better part of the day, this handsome young man brought every toy he owned, along with every treat he had stashed and demanded that we play.  So for a little while today I did not think about the fact that I had no energy, couldn't go to the boutique, and dared not sew a thing.  I played with Mr. Milkbone and a load of others whom I've met before.  If you don't have a sweet little dog, you should get one.  They truly make you feel better and look out for you.

With that said, I am currently sipping on Yogi tea, and entertaining the idea of having some cherry italian ice.  Yummy!  I hope to have the class calenders together by this weekend and maybe some new collection photos.

Be Blessed,

Miss Bijou 

Entertaining Angels

So often I feel we all forget how special life is.  We get so caught up in the who, what, and now that we may not realize when a blessing is right before our very eyes.  You see, as humans we often confuse what we feel is right for us, and our own stubbornness with what is good for us.  Many of us often send up a prayer or wish to a higher power expecting to get what it is we asked for, instead of what we really need.  With that said, I believe on a few occasions I have shared space with angels and been fortunate enough to be blessed with their conversation.  This is not a long post, even possibly something I will touch back on later.  But I leave you with this.  Treat people with the same common courtesy you would like.  Always ask yourself could I be entertaining one of the higher spirits angels.  This post is not meant to offend anyone, but instead offer nourishing food for the mind.  Offer someone around you a hug or friendly handshake.  You'll both feel better.

Sweet Dreams,

Miss Bijou

Miss Gracie Is Hot Stuff!

Around here Miss Gracie is the hot commodity.  So much so, she may be about to take a vacation.  You see we don't believe in mass producing or putting out over a certain amount of our goods.  We like exclusivity and so do our customers.  But don't fret yet, Miss Gracie will be strutting her stuff a little while longer.  Order yours before she takes a vacation.  

$58.00+Shipping and Handling ($10.00)

bijoubeauteintltd@yahoo.com

What's New/ What's Not

Greetings,

Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the changing of seasons.  Although it seems as if Winter has left me, I can appreciate the coming of Spring and the beauty that tags along.  Its been a while since we released a new apron set, and yes a new one is coming soon.  Along with that will be the much anticipated Kitchen Towel sets and Clothespin Bags.  The much anticipated Hanger Sets are now on sell at the special price of $5.00 a set(2).  I still have three sets left.  Get them while you can.  

On another note, new classes are coming soon and a schedule will be posted here on the blog.  I am not sure whether or not we will be offering home decor classes, but jewelry is a definite.  

New Collections:

Cottage Manor

Pink Farmhouse

Tickle Your Fancy Chic

Trunk Show Coming Soon!

I'll have one in pink

So here's the deal.  Ever since way back yonder I've dreamed of having one of these in pink.  A Model T truck that is.  Who would have ever thought that Mr. Fords first version of a pick-up would have me intrigued over 100 years later.  Wow!  This is old fashioned simplicity at its finest.  Wouldn't this look perfect in the drive next to my cottage blue farmhouse.  Oh yeah!  Any who, I just thought I would share this interesting dream of mine.  What's yours?  There may be a prize waiting or the first person to share his or her dream.

Tickle Your Fancy Chic

Hey there,

Just stopping by to post new photos of the items featured in our Lolli Shop Store.  Stop by and see us.  We are also taking wholesale orders again for the Spring and Summer.

Living a Dream

Are you living a dream?

That's something to ask yourself.  Are you living your life to it's fullest?  Or are you working towards something that's nothing?  Recently I decided to give up my job as a Market Manager and focus full throttle on expanding my business.  At first I was a tad bit Leary and questioned whether or not I had lost my mind.  But then I asked myself? What are you working towards.  My main reason for taking on my previous job was because I honestly wanted to make a difference in my community.  Well I soon realized that things don't work that way for other people.  Now out of sheer professionalism I will not elaborate precisely, but after almost two weeks of being solely self employed, I'm loving it.  No more answering to anyone else, no more game playing.  

I now start my day being excited about going to work, and boy let me tell you that feels good.   But wait.  It's also scary.  You see I have this little problem.  I'm a work-a-holic (SP?)!  I feel weird if I am not working like a mad woman.  Guess what?  Problem solved.  I know a gazillion projects to finish, including some new business package layouts, and of course class preparations.  Can I tell you a secret.  I really am loving this kind of busy.  

With that said, I just want everyone who reads this post to take a minute and ask yourself:  Are you living a dream?  A wise man once said Dreams can be a reality.  Is the Great Spirit trying to guide you toward your dream?  Are you denying yourself?  I  know letting go is hard and shedding your job security blanket is even harder, but don't deprive yourself.  Live your Dream, Work toward your dream.  It's not that far away.  And remember to put integrity before dividends, and faith before doubt.

By the way, Living a Dream came from my car salesman, Quote"  Tell them you are living a dream"  

XOXO,

Miss Bijou

New Items!

A quick hello!

I hope everyone is doing well.  As most of you know I have been working very hard to get the new store ready.  While I am so blessed to be living and breathing, I have to admit this new phase has tested my will and patience.  From scrapped website plans to ruined furniture, I have dealt with it all.  But through everything I thank the Great Spirit for the strength given to me so that I could keep moving forward.  With that said, I am really hoping to have a new website soon, but I want to make sure it's one that represents my company well.  I'll just use the boyfriend philosophy, when it's the right one I will know.

Any who, on to prettier things, if you did not have a chance to check out the photo collage, please do so.  I will soon be listing some of the gorgeous refinished furniture from my boutique soon.  I will be listing some of the cool items you can purchase from the boutique.

Sweet Grass Farm Lip Balm Tin $3.50 ea.

My favorite is the mint lip balm.  With the cold Michigan weather it works great and soothes the lips.  

Lavender Bath Syrup $8.00 ea.

Solitude and peace of mind in a bottle.  This bath oil is a personal favorite of mine.  It smells like fresh cut lavender and leaves the skin feeling soothed.  

Collage Pretty

Official Grand Opening February 28, 2009 11a-5p

Store Opening

Hey There,

I just wanted to stop in for a second and let everyone know the new store is officially OPEN.  Join us this Saturday for a fun filled day, where you can shop, browse, and relax.  

Come visit us at: 

Michigan Made

Here is a cool photo taken by Moi on the way to Tecumseh.  Of course I edited the photo, but the cool thing is I took this great shot using my iPhone.  Sweet right?  Take a look and imagine yourself enjoying some brisk winter weather.  Snuggle up and stay warm!

XOXO,

Miss Bijou

Introducing Bella the Beaute

Greetings,

Anyone who knows me will tell you I love dolls.  Particularly vintage handmade dolls.  That does not however leave my gal pal Barbie out of the picture.  More on her later.  Any who, I wanted to introduce you my darling friends to the other mistress of Beaute, Miss Bella the Beaute.  She's sweet and demure, and best of all she doesn't talk back (I know that's crazy, right).  Whatever!  Just take a look at her and leave a pretty comment.

XoXo,

Bella the Beaute

Happy Valentines Day

Greetings,

I apologize for being MIA so long.  As many of you know the new store will be opening this month, and of course everything has to be perfecto.  Recently I have been receiving calls from customers who would like to purchase Fabrics and Patterns from our store.  Currently we carry Fabrics by Tina givens, Tanya Whelan, and Paris Bebe.  We also carry Patterns by Heather Bailey, Tanya Whelan, and Paris Bebe.  Of course all of these items will be in stock at our new location, but if you can't wait, email (bijoubeauteintltd@yahoo.com) us your order request and we will contact you.  

New Items In-Store

Sweet Grass Farms- Home and Body Care

Heather Bailey- Patterns

Paris Bebe- Fabric and Patterns

Bijou Beaute- Aprons, Kitchen Towels, Jewelry, Handbags and more..

Various Antiques and other goodies.

Happy New Year

Let 2009 be your year to shine.  I have lots of great news to unveil in a series of post.  Today I would like to announce that I have received the new Heather Bailey Patterns along with some very beautiful jewelry components.  These will be for sale in February at our New Store.  That's right.  We're opening up shop.  Stay tuned for details and be sure to check out our sister blog Domesticated Beaute.  

New Items for 2009:

Overnight Bags

Skirts

Dresses

Baby Clothing

And much more........