Aroha Silhouettes

MOLECULAR ADDICTIONS // THE TEMPLATE BY NUBBY TWIGLET

2012-01-16T19:57:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed something a little different about the images I have been using for the Molecular Addictions Collection; along with the standard watermarked images there was also a template. It was kind of an experiment so I thought I would share a bit about how it came to be and how it turned out. Read on!
After I release a new collection I love to email my favorite bloggers and websites to introduce my new designs to them in hopes that they will like what they see and will share it with their readers. I had an idea that having a great template that gave the overall gist of what the collection was about might help Molecular Addictions stand out a little over all the other talented designers out there. It was also super important to have the images look like they belonged together when the collection came to an end and because the images were taken using different models, at different locations and on different days I thought a template would help tie them all together.

The list of what the template needed was pretty long and it felt a little beyond my basic graphic design skills so I asked Nubby Twiglet if she was available to take on a job (she designed my logo at the start of 2010). Thankfully she accepted!

Here’s the list of what the template needed to include:

A spot for a 4 x 6 portrait image
A spot for a 6 x 4 landscape image
The text ‘Molecular Addictions’
The Aroha Silhouettes logo
That the photography was by Kelly Jill
The name of the molecule in the image
The molecule featured in the image
A size that could easily be featured on blogs and websites
And it needed to be designed in a way that would allow me to easily change the images, text and molecules myself

A lot of stuff right?! After a few rounds of design/feedback with Nubby I was stoked with the final result, three beautiful and well designed templates to use to help promote the Molecular Addictions:

Landscape template for the Chocolate Necklace

Portrait template for the Nicotine Necklace

Vertical split template for the DMT Necklace

But would anybody actually use them? Or would the collection get less features because of the template? I think this feature on Notcot.com says it all. Template = success!!!

Nubby also gave me the vector file for the Molecular Addictions wordmark which was great to use for other promotional stuff like the videos and website. I love how it looks on the home pages for arohasilhouettes.com:

Seriously, if you’re thinking about doing some design work I can’t recommend Nubby enough! Check out her online portfolio here and see for yourself.

Molecular Addictions // The Final Collection

2011-11-22T18:29:00.000-08:00

I’m so proud to finally be able to introduce you to the complete Molecular Addictions Collection! Caffeine, THC, nicotine, MDMA, chocolate and DMT. Six photoshoots, six product launches and six stunning silhouette necklaces all coming together over the last six months of 2011.

Everyone has his or her own secret indulgence. Molecular Addictions is a jewellery collection and a concept series where molecules are depicted in a way that shows the dark and lonely addictions we can have to addictive substances. Some of the molecules in the collection are easily accessible and consumed on a daily basis whereas others are illicit and taboo, consumed in secret or with close friends.

A piece from the Molecular Addictions Collection is a unique way to show the world what you’re truly craving as you go about your day. Kind of like a little wearable bat signal to other users who are on the same wavelength that you are.

Molecular Addictions was released in a totally new way – one piece launched each month for six months. Instead of just doing the standard one model wearing six different necklaces, Kelly and I went for six models wearing six necklaces, each in different settings to match the molecule being photographed.

A huge part of the project and what has truly brought it to life is the collaboration with photographer Kelly Jill. She has brought an entirely new dimension to the project and transformed the collection into a story. It doesn’t even seem that long ago that I was nervously emailing her to introduce the concept!

I’m also so stoked that Molecular Addictions gave me the opportunity to work with some of Vancouver’s most talented and inspiring hair and makeup artists, stylists and beautiful models who are open minded and interested in doing something a little more on the risky side and outside the box.

A special thank you to everyone who made the Molecular Addictions what it is – Kelly Jill, Emma Garland, Talysia Ayala, Vincent Lee, Siri Williams, Kelsey Harker, Melissa Hamar, Stephanie Poato, Kimberly Rae, Anca Oala and of course Mark Telfer for turning all my crappy footage into something actually worth watching. Without the help of all these awesome people Molecular Addictions would be a big blob of nothing!

I hope you enjoy this final video of all the Molecular Addictions photoshoots put together ...

Molecular Addictions // The DMT Necklace

2011-11-22T16:39:00.000-08:00

The DMT Necklace is the sixth and final molecule to be added the Molecular Addictions Collection of necklaces by Aroha Silhouettes.

DMT (or N,N-Dimethyltryptamine for the geeks out there) is a hallucinogenic drug that produces intense psychedelic effects over a short duration. Often called ‘the spirit molecule’, DMT can produce powerful experiences including intense visuals, euphoria and perceived extensions of reality.

Wearing this necklace is certainly a unique way to show those around you that you're a fan of DMT. Keep it for yourself or give as a gift to a DMT loving friend.

This shoot was a lot harder than the other addictions to conceptualize. How do you portray someone hallucinating? Props became a little difficult too, turns out you can't just go into a head shop and ask for their finest crack pipe! With a little research we went with the VaporGenie and it worked beautifully in the final images. In the end everything came together and I couldn't be happier with the results!

Here's a little behind the scenes video of the shoot that led to these amazing final images ...

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Model – Anca Oala
Styling - Vincent Lee

Check out the DMT Necklace in the Aroha Silhouettes online store here, as well as the rest of the Molecular Addictions Necklaces.

Molecular Addictions // The Chocolate Necklace

2011-11-12T23:39:00.000-08:00

The Chocolate Necklace is the fifth addition to the Molecular Addictions Collection and one that I've been excited about from the start.
I had so much fun shopping for this shoot - chocolate chips, Hershey's kisses, a chocolate block, chocolate coins, chocolate fingers, chocolate almonds and dark chocolate. CHOCOLATE!!! There was also a good stash of leftovers which didn't last long once I got them home.
Theobromine is the molecule found in chocolate which has a mild stimulatory effect on the central nervous system. Because its natural presence in cocoa beans, theobromine is found in all chocolate products. With its creamy taste and divine flavor, chocolate is an ideal addition to the Molecular Addictions Collection! Curb your cravings by wearing this delicious and dainty Chocolate Necklace or give it as a perfect gift to a self declared chocoholic.

Talysia guest stars as the videographer for part of this behind the scenes video so for the first time the whole team makes an appearance. It's also full of smiles ... must have been all the chocolate!

Check out the fifth chapter of Molecular Addictions, the Chocolate Necklace here, and be sure to follow along on Facebook or by signing up to the mailing list so you don’t miss when your favorite molecule is released! There's just one more to come at the end of November.

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Model – Kimberly Rae
Styling - Vincent Lee

Molecular Addictions // The MDMA Necklace

2011-10-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

Chapter four of Molecular Addictions is live! With caffeine, THC and nicotine already added to the collection it’s time to add a little party to the mix with the MDMA Necklace.

For this shoot I was dead set on using a public bathroom, which didn’t exactly make things easy. ‘Hi I’m a jewellery designer and I want to use your bathroom for a photo shoot. Oh, and a little heads up, it involves the implied use of illegal drugs’ generally doesn’t fly with most people! But we still made it happen and the results are so much better than I had hoped for.

Talysia did a gorgeous job on the hair, makeup and nails (seriously, check out the black and white nails!) of our model Stephanie, turning her into a totally sexy party girl. The dress Vincent picked out was fabulous and just added to the look we were going for. The images Kelly captured were insane, it took me days to pick my favorites because there were so many to choose from.

MDMA is the pure form of the drug found in Ecstasy. By increasing specific neurotransmitters in the brain, MDMA produces feelings of increased energy, euphoria and an overall sense of pure bliss. Music sounds amazing … even bad music you wouldn’t normally listen to!

The MDMA Necklace is the perfect way to show the world in your own secret way that you’re a fan of the drug without making it too obvious. It’s up to you if you want to tell people what the molecule really is.

I’ve really started to like doing a little filming during the shoots, it’s become less awkward and more fun. And this one was extra fun to film because the location totally different to the other shoots …

Check out the forth chapter of Molecular Addictions, the MDMA Necklace here, and be sure to follow along on Facebook or by signing up to the mailing list so you don’t miss when your favorite molecule is released! You can also check out the first, second and third chapters of Molecular Addictions here.

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Model – Stephanie Poato
Styling - Vincent Lee

Fame'd Magazine Launch

2011-10-07T00:28:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday night Vancouver Fashion Ezine launched the 2011 collectible edition of Fame'd Magazine ...

So stoked to see the Echo-Rain Feature, which includes the THC Necklace, right at the start of the magazine!

Half Price Coloured Vinyl Record Designs

2011-09-28T15:36:00.000-07:00

I need to make way for all the new products I keep designing so I've just made all the coloured vinyl record necklaces half price. That makes each piece only $25!

Molecular Addictions // The Nicotine Necklace

2011-09-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

It’s hard to believe that we have already arrived at the third chapter of Molecular Addictions. Where did three months go? I’ve been absolutely loving putting this collection together molecule by molecule and I hope you guys are enjoying it too!

This time there was a choice for what to launch next so I put it forward to the Facebook fans to decide which molecule should be chapter three, nicotine or MDMA? Nicotine had a whopping lead of 67 votes so I’m stoked to introduce the Nicotine Necklace to you …

Cigarettes contain tobacco and tobacco contains nicotine. Out of the thousands of chemicals in the tobacco plant there’s one that keeps people coming back for more. This teeny tiny molecule is highly addictive making it one of the most heavily used and extremely addictive drugs in the world.

I like to think that the Nicotine Necklace is the perfect gift for someone that has successfully quit smoking, for someone that’s trying hard to quit, or perhaps for yourself if you’re a die hard fan!

And here's a short video we made from the shoot …

Check out the third chapter of Molecular Addictions, the Nicotine Necklace here, and be sure to follow along on Facebook or by signing up to the mailing list so you don’t miss when your favorite molecule is released! You can also check out the first and second chapters of Molecular Addictions here.

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Model – Melissa Hamar
Styling - Vincent Lee

Idealog Magazine Feature // Christchurch Earthquake Necklace

2011-09-18T14:27:00.000-07:00

"Expat Tania Hennessy wasat the dentist when she ﬁrst heard about theFebruary 22 earthquake that struck her hometownof Christchurch. Now a Canadian resident basedin Vancouver, she knew she had to do her bit tohelp. Her jewellery business, Aroha Silhouettes (formedin 2008) proved the perfect vehicle. Shapedto resemble the seismogram of the magnitude-6.3tremor, this special edition necklace is cut fromstainless steel on a sterling silver chain. Heavily inﬂuencedby her career in science – Hennessy saysshe’s found the perfect balance between part-timelab work and her design business – her love ofclean, almost sterile lines and strong geometric shapesshows through. All sales proceeds go to the Red Cross Appeal."

String Magazine And Vancouver Fashion Ezine Features

2011-09-08T12:40:00.000-07:00

Two very Vancouver features this time! Both photographed by mega fantastic Kelly Jill ...

The Imprison Vinyl Record Necklace from the Phantasmal Collection

This is just ONE photo from the full 'All Fun And Games' editorial, head on over to String Magazine for the full set of fun photos. I absolutely love the combo of big hair and pink lipstick!

Photographed - Kelly Jill
Styling - Vincent Lee Fashion Styling
Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Hair by Sandy Phan
Model - Tiera @ NEXT Canada

The THC Necklace from the Molecular Addictions Collection

This shoot was done for Vancouver's very own clothing brand Echo-Rain for their feature on Vancouver Fashion Ezine. Check out the full story here!

Photography - Kelly Jill
Styling - Coreen Miller
Hair/MUA - Talysia Ayala
Model - Darian @ Key Model Management

Molecular Addictions // The THC Necklace

2011-08-31T13:11:00.000-07:00

The THC Necklace is chapter two of the Molecular Addictions Collection and it's just been launched!

Marijuana, weed, cannabis, pot, Mary Jane. Whatever you want to call it the common active ingredient among them all is the THC molecule. Most of the time it only takes a few seconds after inhaling before you’re feeling a little high and relaxed. Sensations become intensified, perceptions increase and inhibitions are calmed. Let others on the same wavelength know that you’re a fan of the green stuff by wearing this bold and dainty THC molecule necklace.

For this shoot I really wanted a clean, calm and relaxing environment (not the stereotype of a stoner sitting on the couch playing video games with a bag of chips!). We had Kelsey chilling out in a warm bath smoking a 'joint' while Kelly worked her magic taking photos. Vincent took care of the styling picked out a great white top which gave some contrast in the tub and had a perfect neckline for the THC Necklace itself. And if you look up close you'll notice that our hair/MUA Talysia not only did Kelsey's hair and makeup ... she also did her nails too!

Check out the second chapter of Molecular Addictions, the THC Necklace and be sure to follow along on Facebook or by signing up to the mailing list so you don’t miss when your favorite molecule is released! You can also check out the first chapter of Molecular Addictions, the Caffeine Necklace, here.

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Talysia Ayala
Model - Kelsey Harker
Styling - Vincent Lee

Behind The Scenes Of The THC Photoshoot

2011-08-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

A short and sweet behind the scenes look at the photoshoot we did for the second chapter of the Molecular Addictions Collection last week!

The THC Necklace will be available in the Aroha Silhouettes store on 31 August 2011 (tomorrow!) here.

Chaos Magazine Feature - August 2011

2011-08-27T09:25:00.000-07:00

Back To Wonderland was featured in the August Wild Card issue of Chaos Magazine. I LOVE the bubbles!

The Small Full Moon Vinyl Record Necklace worn by Christine

The Imprison Vinyl Record Necklace worn by Jeremy

The Bermuda Silhouette Earrings worn by Christine

The Small Full Moon Vinyl Record Necklace worn by Christine

Features make me happyyyyyyyyyyy!!! Big thanks to the amazing team that put this magic together ...

Photographer - Kelly Jill
Hair/MUA - Talysia Ayala- Make Up Artist
Styling - Vincent Lee Fashion Styling
Models - Jeremy @ Key Models & Christine @ Richards

Recent Press For The Caffeine Necklace

2011-08-18T21:55:00.000-07:00

The Caffeine Necklace has already been receiving some great attention online recently and it’s been amazing! ALL of these sites are ones that I check out regularly so it’s a huge buzz to see Aroha Silhouettes featured.

Big thanks to Kelly at Design Crush, Joe at Joe’s Daily, Souzan at Trendhunter and the always rad editors at Notcouture for the internet love.

Chapter two of Molecular Addictions coming soon!

Molecular Addictions // The Caffeine Necklace

2011-07-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

Everyone has his or her own secret indulgence. Molecular Addictions is a collection and a concept series where molecules are depicted in a way that shows the dark and lonely addictions we can have to addictive substances. Some of the molecules in the collection are easily accessible and consumed on a daily basis whereas others are illicit and taboo, consumed only by those that are truly addicted.

Since moving from New Zealand to Canada I’ve seen an entirely different side to addictions, things here are much more extreme. Here more people smoke pot, coffee shops are everywhere and it’s cheaper to do E on a night out than to drink.

A huge part of the project and what has truly brought it to life is the collaboration with photographer Kelly Jill. She has brought an entirely new dimension to the project and transformed the collection into a story. But it doesn’t just end with Kelly, I’m also completely stoked that this project gives me the opportunity to work with some of Vancouver’s most talented and inspiring hair and makeup artists, stylists and beautiful models who are open minded and interested in doing something a little more on the risky side and outside the box.

Molecular Addictions is going to be launched in a way that is totally different to my usual approach. Instead of releasing everything all at once on the same day, only one piece will be launched each month for the rest of 2011. This gives the creative team a ton of time to really prepare for each individual photoshoot to make them that much more awesome!

A piece from the Molecular Addictions Collection is a unique way to show the world what you’re truly craving as you go about your day. Kind of like a little wearable bat signal to other users who are on the same wavelength that you are.

Check out the first chapter of Molecular Addictions, the Caffeine Necklace and be sure to follow along on Facebook or by signing up to the mailing list so you don’t miss when your favorite molecule is released!

Photography - Kelly Jill
Hair And Makeup - Emma Garland
Model - Siri Elizabeth Williams
Styling - Vincent Lee

Molecular Addictions Photoshoot - Video

2011-07-21T22:31:00.000-07:00

A peek behind the scenes of the first Molecular Addictions photoshoot AND also the first ever Aroha Silhouettes video! This shoot was done for the first installment of the collection, the Caffeine Necklace, which will be available on 26 July 2011.

We have Final Cut now so there will be LOTS more videos!

Inside The Jewellery Box // Soma Magazine Feature

2011-07-17T23:21:00.000-07:00

'Reincarnation proves true in Aroha Silhouettes’ reclaimed vinyl jewelry collection. Vancouver-based designer Tania Hennessy reimagines the beloved analog form into geometric charms that play heavily on positive and negative space. À la Escher, the Aggregate Vinyl Record Necklace features a two-dimensional triangular stack of cubes that allow the skin to peek through each crisp, hand-cut shape. The Small or Large Full Moon Necklace however pays higher homage to the LP, though subtly still. The disc charms highlight the uniqueness found in each of Hennessy’s pieces with more prominence-fetching arcs in a mix of widths and depths, as is innate to the grooves of each vinyl record, with a tinge of celestial whimsy.'

Lisa Shahno // Aroha Silhouettes

2011-06-30T00:20:00.000-07:00

Almost a year ago I became a massive fan of Lisa Shahno's work. This girls work is a geometrical rainbow of innovation combined with squares and triangles. Here's a photo of Lisa wearing one of her amazing creations with a one of a kind Aroha Silhouettes Spontaneous Necklace ...

How fricken awesome is that jacket!?! I can't wait to see her new collection. Check out the full post on her blog here. I hope we can work together more in the future!

http://lisashahno.com + http://arohasilhouettes.com = awesome!

Red Hardcover Vinyl Record Necklace

2011-06-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

Recently photographer Kim Akrigg took a beautiful photo of the Red Hardcover Vinyl Record Necklace. Against light the translucent red piece is really bright and vibrant, but when it's against the skin the colour deepens to a beautiful dark red. Coloured vinyl is awesome!

Reverie Magazine Feature - June 2011

2011-06-02T19:12:00.000-07:00

I should start by saying that can't take any credit for this awesome shoot, It was all the work of Jessica, Emma, Chelsea, Mícheála and Brittany. I was half way between Vietnam and Vancouver when this all went down!

The Fearless Necklace (worn short) from the Disposition Collection

The Extroverted Necklace from the Disposition Collection

The Obedient Necklace from the Disposition Collection

Photographer - Jessica Luch - www.jessicaluch.com
Hair - Emma Garland - www.flickr.com/photos/emmamaygarland
MUA - Chelsea Mandziuk - www.cvmmakeup.tk
Model - Mícheála Gardner - http://michealagardner.tumblr.com
Designer - Brittany Wacher - http://brittanywacher.com

Bello Mag Feature - May 2011

2011-05-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

Madison wearing the Blue Aggregate Vinyl Record Necklace on the left

Madison wearing the Confined Vinyl Record Necklace on the right

Big thanks to the creative team that made this Bello Mag shoot happen ...

Photographer - Kelly Jill - www.kellyjill.com
Stylist - Sarah Danniels - www.sarahdanniels.com
MUA/Hair - Eman for They Rep - www.emanmakeup.com
Model - Madison for Next Canada - www.nextmodels.ca

Nubby Twiglet Wearing The Vinyl Record Aggregate Necklace

2011-05-15T22:40:00.000-07:00

Nubby Twiglet rocking the Aggregate Necklace with shorts. How cute is Rocky! Check out the original article on Nubby's blog here.

Earthquake pieces on Clever Bastards

2011-04-25T22:31:00.000-07:00

Clever Bastards is a New Zealand based website jam packed with creative and passionate kiwis doing their thing. They do a really awesome job of letting you get to know the designers behind the art as well. Here are a few of my favorites products from the site ...

Endeavour Brooch by Jane Vile

Yep, honey. Dam I miss NZ honey!
Manuka Active 12+ Honey by J Friend and Co.

Eye Chart For Aotearoa 1.2 by Brad Novak

And for a limited time the Christchurch Earthquake Necklace and Brooch designs are available on the Clever Bastards website. Still with all the funds going to the NZ Red Cross!

Natural Disasters Shoot With Kim Akrigg and Ryan Connors

2011-04-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

A couple of a weeks ago Kim Akrigg and Ryan Connors did a joint natural disasters shoot to make prints to sell and raise money to send to the people in Japan. There was an amazing team of hair and makeup artists, stylists and models working super hard and the final images turned out AMAZING ...

If you look closely you can spot a Christchurch Earthquake Necklace and Brooch worn by Chelsea and Karie ...

Christchurch Earthquake Brooch

Christchurch Earthquake Necklace

If you're interested in purchasing prints and donating to Japan at the same time get in touch with Kim or Ryan for details.

A Necklace And Brooch To Raise Money For Christchurch

2011-03-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

Almost a month ago I got all inspired to do a little something for my battered and beaten home town back in New Zealand. Without being home to help dig silt (or long drop holes!) it's good to be able to try and do something to help, even if it seems a little late. With everything that’s going on in Japan it’s nice to send some love to Christchurch!

I'm so happy to be able to say that 100% of the money from the sale of each piece will be going to the NZ Red Cross to help with disaster relief. After your order ships you will receive a receipt for the donation amount so you know it's legit.

The original seismogram of the 6.3 earthquake

Christchurch Earthquake Necklace - $50

Christchurch Earthquake Brooch - $40

Please help me spread the word and lets raise some money for Christchurch!

New Store - Lotus Look In North Carolina

2011-03-23T00:01:00.001-07:00

There's another beautiful store stocking Aroha Silhouettes. Lotus Look in North Carolina now has an array of pieces available. I love how the display is all black pieces!

A Jewellery Design For The Christchurch 6.3 Earthquake

2011-03-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

On the 22nd of February 2011 my home town in New Zealand was totally messed up by a massive 6.3M earthquake. Although the one they had in September last year was bigger (7.1M), the damage from this one was far more intense.

For a couple of weeks I've been feeling completely useless all the way over here in Canada while my family and friends are without power and water, homeless and jobless. The Cathedral is fucked, Shag Rock has crumbled and the death toll continues to rise. It's horrific.

Yesterday I set out to design something for Christchurch with the hope to raise some funds for the NZ Red Cross. I was stuck on what use for the design for about a week. I kept coming back to the idea of the Cathedral but wasn't really sure what to do there, steeple on or off? I played around with using the words 'Kia Kaha CHCH' on their own but it didn't seem right either.

Eventually I decided on using the seismogram of the 6.3M quake. Although after a good two hours of googling I still hadn't found a decent image to base it on. So I went an obsessive step further and downloaded a Global Earthquake Explorer program which allows you search the quakes of the world ... then I spent another couple of hours learning to use that.

A screenshot of the seismogram in GEE

I exported an image of the quake and loaded it into illustrator, using it to base my simplified seismogram piece on. I thickened up the lines and rounded off the edges (don't want anyone to stab themselves with a sharp point!). I reckon it turned out pretty good!

The final step was to print it out on paper and work out what size would work best. It will be made from stainless steel and the date will be etched into one side of the piece. I think it will work really well as a brooch too!

So there you have it, my Saturday! I hope to have the design up for sale in the Aroha Silhouettes online store in a couple of weeks to raise funds for Christchurch. Hopefully it's not too late to help out. Follow Aroha Silhouettes on Facebook to see when it's available!

The Transformation Black Collection By Aroha Silhouettes

2011-03-01T18:16:00.000-08:00

Just over two months ago I threw a couple of pieces from the Stainless Phantasmal Collection in with some Disposition pieces for powder coating. I wasn’t really expecting too much, just a little experiment and maybe couple of pieces for myself to wear. But they turned out REALLY awesome. Like really really awesome. The matte black powder coating on each necklace and earring design feels so good and rounds off the edges beautifully.

Fast-forward two months and here it is! The collection I’ve called Transformation Black …

Hardcover Silhouette Necklace - $55

Bermuda Silhouette Earrings - $55

Click here to check out the full Transformation Black Collection. This right here is what Aroha Silhouettes is all about my friends!

The Hardcover Vinyl Record Necklace In Action

2011-02-13T22:46:00.000-08:00

Hope of Pansy Lane (aka the most adorable librarian in the world!) rocking the

Hardcover Vinyl Record Necklace

2010 into 2011

2011-02-06T22:07:00.000-08:00

After a fun filled trip to New Zealand for Christmas and little stint in Australia on the way home it's great to be back in Canada again ... even if it is cold and rainy most days.

While in Melbourne I stayed with Tiff of Munted Kowhai and we bounced ideas off each other for what's in store for Aroha Silhouettes and Munted Kowhai in 2011. After working with Nubby Twiglet at the start of 2010 on the logo and branding, building a new site from scratch with White Pixels, launching a new collection I'm super proud of and doing lots of fun photo shoots; I'm going to have to work dam hard to top all that this year!

Now if only I could stop getting distracted by upcoming travel plans ...

Next Shipping Date Will Be 13th January

2010-12-30T17:51:00.000-08:00

For the next couple of weeks while I’m spending time in New Zealand with family and friends you’re still able to shop in the Aroha Silhouettes online store; but the next shipping date will be on the 13th of January 2011.

I promise I’ll be back at the start of 2011 loaded up with fresh new ideas and ready to dive straight back into Aroha Silhouettes!

A couple of days ago I was driving from Mount Cook to Christchurch and I noticed this view in the side mirror. It’s good to be home …

Transformation Black Photoshoot

2010-12-15T21:06:00.000-08:00

Today the stars aligned and Kim Akrigg, Emma Garland, Kelsey Harker and I were all available on the same day at the same time. Jessica Ata did the styling and picked out the most perfect textured tank top that worked perfectly with the necklaces and the lighting. We all got together and squeezed in a pre-Christmas photoshoot before we all head off in separate directions for the holidays.

Since doing the Black Necklace Experiments about a month ago I decided to really go for it on the Stainless Phantasmal Collection. The pieces look a gazillion times better in black and I love the look and texture of them powder coated.

It will take a little time before the final images are ready, but here's a couple of behind the scenes shots I took today while the girls were working their magic ...

If you're a model, hair/makeup artist, stylist or photographer in Vancouver and want to work together on a shoot get in touch! I LOVE seeing the pieces on real life models and photoshoots are fun!

Round Full Moon Vinyl Record Necklaces

2010-12-08T14:38:00.000-08:00

I was having a bit of a clean up and I found these Full Moon Vinyl Record Necklaces which I created last year as a custom order for a store.

Each disk has a large surface area so you can really see the unique grooves of each piece which were present in the record prior to cutting. It's a super simple design and looks amazing on, definitely a conversation piece! Perhaps the large surface area makes it still actually playable?

There's only a couple of each size available in the Aroha Silhouettes online store so get in quick!

Large and Small Full Moon Vinyl Record Necklaces - $45

Aroha Silhouettes Mailing List And A 25% Discount

2010-11-28T16:45:00.000-08:00

I'm happy to announce that Aroha Silhouettes now has a full functioning MAILING LIST!!! Yipeeeeeeeee!!!

Lyndsay at White Pixels has done a great job of putting together a aesthetically beautiful template that matches the website and has all the necessary components of a great mailing list template.

Everyone that signs up to the mailing list will get a 25% off discount code to use in the Aroha Silhouettes online store, just for signing up!

You'll also receive emails with the latest exciting news, limited edition jewellery pieces, new collection previews and other surprises.

Click here to sign up now, I promise it will be fun!

Aroha Silhouettes Jewellery Logo Development

2010-11-25T22:40:00.000-08:00

Photo by Nubby

Nubby Twiglet, recently did a really cool write up on nubbytwiglet.com of the logo design process we worked on together earlier this year. Asking her to develop the new Aroha Silhouettes logo was definitely one of the best choices I've made for the business!

While you're there check out the rebranding work she has done for Sweet Caroline Photo, Molly Crabapple and Luke Copping. AND so super jealous that her artwork has appeared on a line of snowboard goggles, how cool is that!

Black Necklace Experiments

2010-11-21T16:54:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week I got some more pieces from the Disposition Collection powder coated and I threw in a couple of Stainless Phantasmal pieces just for fun. They turned out REALLY awesome, I didn't expect to love them so much. I've been wearing this black version of the Bermuda Necklace for a couple of days now!

What do you guys think? Perhaps the destiny of the Stainless Phantasmal Collection is to be transformed into jet black silhouettes!

I added just one necklace in the Aroha Silhouettes online store at the special experimental price of $25!

Free Treat At Studio Home Online

2010-11-14T23:25:00.000-08:00

Julia over at Studio Home is giving away an Aroha Silhouettes Necklace from the new Disposition Collection. All you have to do is name the piece below in her comments and you're in to win!

Click here to enter!

One Of A Kind Jewllery Molecules

2010-11-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

Back in March when I was doing the planning and design work for the Disposition Collection I decided on one factor that was 100% non negotiable – there HAD to be one of a kind designs included. Absolutely had to. It was the end of the world when I found out that the company that I had been working with previously couldn’t help me out in this department. Well, they could do it but I would have had to empty out my savings account to do it (broke = not ideal). So I did what anyone would do in this situation and became obsessive, googling like a crazy woman for hours on end. Eventually I found the needle in a haystack company that could fulfill my one of a kind fantasies. Bless the internet.

You’re probably thinking ‘jeez, what’s the big deal if you include one of a kind designs or not, who cares!’. Fair call. I really wanted to create a collection that could evolve and change over time, a constant work in progress that could never go stale. Most of all I wanted to give customers a way to own a truly unique one of a kind molecule piece.

Every single one of a kind piece in the Disposition Collection will never ever be reproduced again in it’s exact form. So there’s no chance that you will ever bump into anyone wearing the exact same piece. Really, how cool is that?!

Here's a small selection of one of a kind designs available in the Aroha Silhouettes store at the moment:

Loyal Necklace - 1
$80

Eccentric Necklace - 1
$80

Tactful Necklace - 2
$70

Optimistic Necklace - 2
$80

Ambitious Necklace - 3
$80

Check out the full selection of one of a kind pieces here!

Aroha Silhouettes is all grown up!

2010-11-01T23:07:00.000-07:00

This is going to make me sound like a retard, but it feels like Aroha Silhouettes was an ugly caterpillar before. Kind of cute with potential and all that, but still a caterpillar. But NOW she's transformed into a beautiful black and white butterfly. All grown up and ready to make stuff happen.

The feedback on the new website and The Disposition Collection has been amazing. It totally makes all the late nights and stress worth it. The wonderful Queen Michelle over at Kingdom Of Style did an fabulous feature last week. Almost exactly two years after Aroha Silhouettes was first featured on the site (even though back then I had my ugly caterpillar photos!).

Off to prep orders before bed!

The Disposition Collection

2010-10-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

Why just launch a website when I can launch a website AND a new collection! After all, a new website alone isn't exactly a traffic driving tactic so it made good sense to go for a double whammy. Jeez, I cursed that decision a lot over the last couple of months though!

But I'm extremely proud to introduce the new 2010 Aroha Silhouettes collection:

Disposition is a collection of artificial molecules designed to enhance desirable personality traits in humans. Think of it as instant gratification for temporarily reprogramming your personality. It’s the modern day alternative to taking the time and making the effort to improve your temperament.

The collection contains eight personality modifying molecules which temporarily elevate an aspect of your nature. Unique one of a kind structures are also featured which will never be reproduced exactly the same.

If you could temporarily boost an aspect of your personality what would it be?

All of the pieces can be found in the new Aroha Silhouettes online store and range from $60 - $120.

CREDITS
Photography : Kimberley Akrigg Photography
Hair and makeup : Emma Garland
Model : Diandra at Lexington Models
Product photography : Aroha Silhouettes

You can also download the Disposition Collection Lookbook here.

New Aroha Silhouettes Website And Online Store

2010-10-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago I figured I’d be all into the grown up stuff at 28. You know, have some babies, maybe joined the mortgage club or something. If someone told me I’d be living in Canada and launching my own website I would have laughed at them. And probably gone ‘huh, you can shop on the internet?’ because at 18 I didn't know you could do that. Why would anyone want to answer the question ‘what I’m I going to do with my life?’ back in high school! Boring.

Anyway, I want to introduce you to the all new and a gazillion times improved and more sexy Aroha Silhouettes store ...

arohasilhouettes.com

I LOVE it! Love love love it. Lyndsay and Ben at White Pixels are absolutely amazing and so unbelievably talented at what they do. The fact that they can build something like this from nothing boggles my mind. Every single request I had was incorporated into the site and their ideas and suggestions made it even better. Seriously, if you’re considering building a website for your business or yourself I can’t recommend White Pixels enough! They are fast, efficient, knowledgeable and incredibly lovely and polite, even when I’m suggesting page changes two days before launch!

Head on over and check out the new Aroha Silhouettes site and let me know what you think!

You can also find the new collection, Disposition, on the site as well. More on that in the next post ...

Sneak Peek Of The New Website

2010-10-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

Time has been flying by lately as the 19th of October gets closer and closer. I don't think I've ever been so nervous about a birthday before! I've been uploading content and products into the new site and it's looking amazing. A good 98% of websites suck in some way or another so I'm beyond stoked that my new site falls into the rare 2% of sites I actually love.

Here's a sneak peek of the home page of the new site ...

LOVE it! Love love love it. Lyndsay and Ben at White Pixels totally nailed it. I spent yesterday putting together large feature images and it was lots of fun. I hope they don't make people click the 'back' button!

Countdown: 9 days!!!

When Giving Up Is the RIGHT Choice

2010-10-04T00:12:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago I decided that my jewellery was a total mess and it needed a stand made for it quick smart! One thing led to another and before I knew it I had designed and made a cardboard prototype. Then not too long after that I had it made in acrylic. Off to a smooth start.

The next stage was to get a base made. Shouldn't be to hard right? Yea wrong. The cheapest I could get a block of acrylic to stand the piece up in was going to cost a bomb! And other options were limited since I actually cared about the aesthetics of it, and I'm seriously lacking in the tool department to do a DIY job for it.

I think sometimes projects just come to their own natural end. And that's ok. Knowing when to give up on the unimportant stuff gives time and space to do the stuff that really matters.

Not long after deciding to say goodbye to the jewellery stand plan forever I accidentally knocked it onto the floor and it broke into three pieces. Oooops!

Bye bye jewellery stand idea, I tried ...

Finally Updating My About Page

2010-09-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

A new website is as good of an excuse as any to give the Aroha Silhouettes about page a face lift. It's been left unedited and abandoned for about 2 years and after that long it really wasn't reflecting much at all. I just kind of pretended it wasn't there so I didn't have to take on the task of fixing it!

With a little outside help to put a new version together and I'm once again happy with my about page ...

Aroha Silhouettes started out as a moonlighting endeavor to escape the everyday routine of working a 9-5 job in a laboratory for New Zealand born designer, Tania Hennessy. Launching in 2008 with Phantasmal, a collection of eye catching three-dimensional jewellery designs made from reclaimed vinyl records, a creative obsession was instantly born.

Heavily influenced by her career in science, Hennessy lets the elements of a clean sterile laboratory show through in her jewellery designs and combines them with geometrical shapes and a dark alternative edge. By using contrasting silhouettes and utilizing white space, her style emerges as a hybrid of concept, imagination and innovation. Her distinctive designs play with bold lines that reflect on the properties of the material the piece was created from.

By also embracing the unique ability to produce one of a kind pieces, Aroha Silhouettes is able to make individualistic necklaces and earrings that promise nobody else will be wearing another piece exactly the same. Each and every Aroha Silhouettes piece is hand assembled with love in her studio in Vancouver, Canada.

23 days until it will appear on the new website! I might even put a picture of myself on there if I'm feeling brave.

Happy 2nd Birthday Aroha Silhouettes

2010-09-19T16:31:00.000-07:00

Jeez, doesn't even seem like that long ago since I wrote my 1st year happy birthday post.

It's the perfect time to poke fun at how fugly things looked back in the beginning ...

For some reason when I was editing these I thought I had to make the piece really BLACK because, well it was black. It resulted in everything else in the photo looking extremely dark as well. Ewwww it looks horrible. Note the ugly blotchy background from using my crappy little point and shoot.

And here's when I used to put my pieces into the scanner to take 'photos' of them. I thought I was really clever for doing this.

Oh god, this one is the worst. The purple, the front point is out of focus, the angle. Ugh!

The focus on this one is awful! Obviously pre photoshop days because there definietly isn't a seamless background here!

Tiffany over at Munted Kowhai says it's like looking back at old school photos hahaha, so true. But we all got to start somewhere though right?!

You can see how the Bermuda Necklace photos are looking these days here. Much much better I reckon.

Shopping For Models Is Weird

2010-09-12T23:20:00.000-07:00

So all your life you're not supposed to judge someone on their looks. It's bad, it's wrong blah blah blah. But then the day comes when you need a model for a photo shoot and all that has to be thrown out the window, all of a sudden you're looking for someone based on their looks. It's kind of bizarre.

I hunted through what must have been every single model in Vancouver for three days, it was kind of frustrating really. Model Mayhem was my main choice of browsing which could have been why. Since I was looking for a blond/light brown haired model it involved sifting through a large number of half naked porn star wannabes which I wasn't really expecting.

Anyway, all the searching aside I found the perfect model for the shoot tomorrow! I only found one and thankfully with only a weeks notice she was available. Future note: don't put off finding a model until the last minute.

I'm really excited, I've got a total dream team to work with tomorrow and I reckon it's going to be loads of fun. And with two 'learning experience' photo shoots under my belt I'm definitely due for third time lucky shoot tomorrow!

How To Whip Up An Emergency Model Release Form

2010-09-08T21:53:00.000-07:00

I wonder how many other people find themselves in need of a model release form in an urgent hurry? Once again Google to the rescue! With an example form from the Modeling agency and a quick google search of the first sentence and I instantly found a ton of resources. What people did before the internet is completely beyond me.

Throw on a custom header, a little formatting to make it look pretty and bingo, time for action!

Photo Shoot Planning

2010-09-05T17:03:00.000-07:00

I had a wee freak out earlier this week when I realized just how fast time is going by. I'm still beyond determined to launch the website and new collection on my 28th birthday though! There's still just so much to do before then. Maybe temporarily cutting down to five hours sleep is a viable option?

But things are coming together for the upcoming photo shoot for the new collection. I've been wanting to work with photographer Kimberley Akrigg for ages and can't wait to shoot with her next week. Here's some of my favorite photos that she's taken ...

Post Powder Coating

2010-09-01T18:21:00.000-07:00

Powder coating the stainless steel pieces presented a few surprise pain in the arse hurdles but things got there in the end and the results are way better than I could have hoped for ...The finish is matte black and it gives the pieces just the right amount of depth. Now it's time to start putting the pieces together for the photo shoot!

My Heart My Soul Necklace

2010-08-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

Ooooh pretty. Via NotCouture and available here.

Cute Little Hangtags

2010-08-22T19:33:00.001-07:00

How unbelievably cute are these new stainless steel hangtags! A bit tangled right now, Mark says it's like a cruel puzzle trying to untangle them. They are off being powder coated black with the new collection pieces, but here they are before their transformation ...

Webtagging

2010-08-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

Via Do You Read Me

Jewellery Stand Progress

2010-08-15T20:12:00.000-07:00

Things are coming along nicely with the jewellery stand I've been designing for myself. After a few design rounds on the computer I printed it out on paper, glued it onto cardboard and then spent an hour and half cutting it out by hand with a craft knife. My poor fingers ended up with a few nicks and cuts by the end of it.

I know, it looks kind of ugly like this. But using paper and cardboard for a prototype is the fastest and cheapest way to see how the design turns out.

After a few small adjustments I sent the file off to the laser cutter. Unfortunately he didn't have any light grey acrylic on hand but this will do for now.

Next up, coming up with a base that holds it upright!

Lisa Shahno

2010-08-11T19:01:00.001-07:00

I have no idea where I saw Lisa Shahno's work for the first time but I've been a little stalkerish of her super rad designs since then! This girl has got the design skills to back up my obsession with her Russian crazy creations. What's not to love about spikes, geometry, straight lines with splashes of purple and pink?

Go on, you know you wanna do a little stalking for yourself ...

http://lisashahno.com/blog/
http://lisashahno.com/

Pre Powder Coating

2010-08-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

My favorite new collection piece before it takes a trip to the powder coater ...

I'm so happy with how the pieces turned out! The quality and perfection of them has totally blown me away. Not only that, but I got the pieces 2 weeks sooner than I was expecting. Bonus!

A Big Tangled Mess

2010-08-01T17:59:00.000-07:00

When I think of a jewellery designers collection of accessories I imagine beautifully presented art. Everything easy to see and grab in an instant and organized perfectly by colour and kind.

Yea, this is the exact opposite of how mine is organized. It’s a mess, a big tangled mess! One earring here, another one there (trapped in a chain necklace) I promise this photo isn’t an exaggeration …

And there's more stashed on the other side too. But I'm doing something to sort this out! I'm working on designing a jewellery stand to hold it all. I'm not sure how it's going to turn out, I guess I can't make things much worse than my current disorganized disaster. I think I'm going to make it from light grey acrylic or maybe wood, I'll show you how it turns out when it's finished!

Is your jewellery a tangled mess or attractively organized?

Lord Of The Logos - Christophe Szpajdel

2010-07-28T21:34:00.000-07:00

How awesome are Christophe Szpajdel's metal logos?! I've had a couple of pages of his logos that I found in a Vice magazine up on my notice board for about 6 months now and I won't be taking them down anytime soon ...

New Collection Favorite

2010-07-25T20:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek of my favorite piece from the new collection I've been working on ...

I promised dark and geeky didn't I. It's going to be made from stainless steel and then powder coated matte black. The suspense to see them in non digital form is killing me!

My Amazing New Invioce Template

2010-07-21T21:38:00.000-07:00

Since getting the new logo from Nubby Twiglet I decided to give my invoice a bit of a spruce up. My old one was ok, it did the job I guess.

The new one I put together in Excel is now perfect. It calculates everything for me automatically (as any Excel spreadsheet should) and the layout makes my eyes happy.

Do you have slightly weird passionate feelings towards your invoice layout? Hmmmm. No? Just me?!

If anyone would like a copy of the Excel file to use as your own template I would be happy to share. Just flick me and email and I'll hook you up with an invoice that makes eyes happy!

It's Because I Want To, Not Because I have To

2010-07-18T22:40:00.000-07:00

It's been an amazing warm beautiful Vancouver weekend ... and I've spent the entire weekend inside. See, look how committed I am to my self made deadline this time! But dam it's hard. While friends are swimming and frolicking in the sunshine I'm sitting inside on my laptop designing up a storm in illustrator and finishing up the final touches on the files.

But the best part is that I'm not doing any of it because I have to, it's all because I want to. I reckon that's pretty awesome!

My Absolute Favorite Costume

2010-07-14T19:15:00.000-07:00

From Tim Burton's Alice In Wonderland ...

Sometimes I really do wonder why I picked a Bachelor of Microbiology and Immunology over a Bachelor of Fashion Design!

Launch Countdown - 100 Days

2010-07-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

Three big things are happening on the 19th of October that I'm beyond excited about and want to share!

The first big thing is the launch of the new collection I've been working on. It's going to be super dark and geeky and I can't wait to see it all put together. Lately it's been all about illustrator, hand cut prototypes and late nights. There's going to be 8 designs in the collection (I managed to stick with 8!) and then lots of one of a kind designs to keep the collection evolving.

The second is the launch of my website! I'll be saying goodbye to Etsy in October and arohasilhouettes.com will be directed to a beautiful new site designed by Lyndsay of White Pixels. Her work is absolutely flawless and I've been wanting to work with her for almost two years on a custom site for Aroha Silhouettes. I can't wait to see what she comes up with.

The third thing is that it will be my 28th birthday! It seems like the perfect date to launch a new collection and a website.

So mark it on your calendar, 19th October 2010, and let the 100 day countdown begin!

Brilliant Bare Photography

2010-07-07T19:19:00.000-07:00

Via The 25th Century

Self Made Deadlines

2010-07-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

I’ve noticed something over the last couple of weeks. It’s pretty obvious really, but for some reason it feels good dam good to write it out loud. A deadline is mighty hard to stick to when you’re the only one who cares about it!. With nobody nagging, checking in on progress and cheerleading me towards completion it gets really hard to stick to a goal date.

It should be as simple as making it happen and getting it done.

Amanda Wachob Tattoos

2010-06-29T22:27:00.000-07:00

Stunning tattoos by Amanda Wachob.

Do Something Worth Criticizing

2010-06-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

I've been listening to Seth Godins audiobook 'Tribes' this week and there's one line from it that has really stuck in my head. 'Do something worth criticizing'. It's so simple, but really got me thinking.

My very first collection Phantasmal generated some negative comments on the internet. Things like 'anyone could do that' and 'vinyl records are just junk'. It was remarkable enough to be worth criticizing. My second collection Lucid Contrast received no negative comments (well, that I could find anyway). Guess which collection was more successful? By far Phantasmal!

Instead of taking the easy road and creating something mediocre why not design something that deserves the attention? How could you design something the critics will criticize?

In the end, boring products and ideas don't deserve to spread!

Procrastination Control

2010-06-23T22:26:00.000-07:00

I've been so totally useless in the last week. Every time I sit down with to do some design work I somehow seem to get distracted. I have all the best intentions I swear! But before I know it I'm browsing through my reader, googling this that and everything, checking the next weeks unreliable weather forecast and looking through the wedding album of someone I've never met on Facebook. Searching for one thing leads to something else more interesting and so the cycle continues.

BUT I have a not so secret weapon to deal with the distractions and the lure of the internet - enter Leechblock.

Leechblock is an awesome Firefox extension that is worth installing, even if you just use it once or twice. You just tell it what sites you want to block and how long for. I force myself to block all kinds of sites and the amount of work I can get done while they are blocked is amazing. Procrastination control!

Paper Prototypes And A Tingly Thumb

2010-06-20T19:29:00.000-07:00

I've had a tingly/numb thumb for the last 3 hours from going overboard cutting out tons of paper prototype designs. After a couple of weeks of staying up till the wee hours almost every night designing like mad it was time to see how they looked off the computer screen.

I find it helps to be able to hold a design which has been made on the computer up against myself to see how it looks and to check out how the sizing is. Some are WAY too big to use in real life.

Now the really hard part - nailing it down to just eight designs!

Typing feels weird, I hope the feeling in my thumb comes back soon. My fault for using kids paper scissors I guess.

Incarnation By Mark Ryden

2010-06-16T21:46:00.000-07:00

I remember the first time I stumbled across Mark Ryden's work. I was 15 and watching a friend get her first tattoo and while browsing though the magazines in the shop I found an article about him and his art and fell in love. Seriously, one of my life goals is to get rich enough to buy an original!

Although this may make it start to look like I have some weird meat fetish (I swear I don't!), I can't help but post this amazing painting by Mark Ryden.

You can also see an amazing time lapse of this painting here.

New Collection Inspiration

2010-06-13T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've been going full speed this week working on my new collection. Here are a few of my favourite images that I've been looking at for inspiration
Oh yes, it's going to be extremely geeky!

I Could Kill Hours On This Site

2010-06-09T23:30:00.000-07:00

It's so so fun! It reminds me of when you drop food colouring into water drop by drop. I promise it's worth a play!

escapemotions.com - flame

New Business Cards

2010-06-06T15:10:00.000-07:00

One of the funnest parts of having a new logo is getting new business cards!

My old cards were a bit random. Purple, black and white with a halftone pattern (?!?!) on the front and little love hearts and giant text taking up all the space on the black. I’ve been looking forward to replacing them for a while.

For the new cards I wanted to keep things super simple, letting the new logo speak for itself. I had my heart completely set on using embossing for the new cards but a mighty large quote changed my mind on that pretty quickly. Perhaps one day when I need a gazillion cards I will go with that option.

The Gotham typeface in two different weights was used for the text on the back which matches the logotype on the front of the cards. I chose a matte aqueous coating for the cards, which gives them this perfect not to shiny but not too rough feel. And this allows them to be written on with a ballpoint pen which is useful.

Another change from the old cards was the decision not to put my contact phone number on them. In the year and a half I had with the old cards, I think about 99% of contact was made via email so it seemed like having a phone number on there was a little pointless. Will see how it goes though, if it’s a problem I can always add it back on there.

So here they are ...

In other random news, on Tuesday morning my head was attacked by a crazed crow! It actually made my head bleed a little. Evil evil birds!

States Of The Heart By Luis Marte

2010-06-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

I've been randomly looking for ideas and inspiration for my next photo shoot lately and I stumbled across this kind of icky, but uniquely awesome shoot by Luis Marte.

Sorry vegeterians, avert your eyes!

LOVE it!

Aroha Silhouettes Vs The Slot Of Doom

2010-05-30T18:23:00.000-07:00

I go through phases of obsessing about packaging. Seriously, hours and hours disappear while I google every possible word I can think of that might lead me to the nonexistent company that sells exactly what I need. It’s both frustrating and addictive at the same time!

The reason it goes in phases is because I end up throwing my arms in the air and going ‘why the *#%$ can’t I just buy lightweight slim black boxes with a non tacky insert that fits through Canada Posts 2 cm evil slot of doom!’ and then I give up. Until a week or two later when I try again. It’s a total love hate relationship.

Here’s a couple of my favourite jewellery designers that have totally nailed slim and lightweight packaging for their gorgeous pieces.

byAMT use layers of die cut museum board which is held together by cute little rubber bands. Clever cookies ...

Bandada use shaped medium density fiberboard to create really unique boxes for their jewellery ...

I refuse giving up hope, the right packaging for my jewellery is out there somewhere and I WILL find it!

The House Of Quinn

2010-05-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Love the style and photography for the Death Becomes Her 2010 collection by The House Of Quinn. Sterile + a little creepy at the same time.

Via Kingdom of Style

Why Is It So Hard To Just Start?

2010-05-23T18:11:00.000-07:00

I seem to have hit some sort of weird roadblock. Everything is totally in place to start designing a new collection. I know exactly what I want to do and I can see exactly how it's going to look so clearly. I have all the tools I need to begin and I’m super pumped about getting started on it.

So why can’t I get moving? I’m putting it off and I have no idea why! Especially since I can’t wait to get into it and see how it turns out.

Perhaps I’m just procrastinating? I do like to put things off for no good reason. Or maybe I’m waiting for something? Like that little boost of inspiration that will take the new collection of designs to the next level. Argh, time to make it happen already!

Really, I probably just need to unplug the wifi ...

Paperself Eyelashes

2010-05-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

These paper eyelashes by Paperself are so pretty, the silhouettes are totally stunning. I need an excuse to use these in a photo shoot!

Via NotCot

How Many Designs To Put In A Jewellery Collection?

2010-05-16T16:49:00.000-07:00

I have recently started the design work for a new jewellery collection and have found myself wondering ‘how many designs should I include?’. I tend to get a little out of control with collection size and really want to go for a more logical approach this time around.

I guess it's one of those 'each to their own' situations. Some jewellery designers seem to have 20+ designs in a collection, others sticking with less than 10 designs.

Here are the main points I’ve been considering while trying to decide how many different designs I should include in my next collection …

PHOTOGRAPHY
It’s a nice idea to think that a few snaps on a white background is going to cut it. Although simple images with white backgrounds are needed for product shots, they’re pretty boring. Setting up a shoot in a studio with a photographer, stylist and a model doesn’t come cheap but I think it's worth the effort. The fewer designs there are in a collection the less photography work is required. Lazy but true.

STOCK
The more designs there are in a collection the more designs that need to be kept in stock. When a store asks for 25 pieces of jewellery I want to be able to ship out the door the next day.

VERSITILITY
I like to be able to double up and use the same design as a necklace or for a pair of earrings. I find it helps with keeping pieces in stock and providing more styles of jewellery. Although that being said, I think I take it a little too far! Eight necklaces also equals eight pairs of earrings which quickly escalates to 16 pieces. Must resist the urge to double up on everything this time!

COST TO PRODUCE
When working with laser cutting and other manufacturing techniques there is a direct cost for producing the designs initially. More designs mean a higher upfront cost.

ADDING ONE OF A KIND
While the collection is a concrete set of designs, there’s no reason why I can’t add one of a kind designs that compliment the collection as well!

QUALITY
Having fewer designs this time around will really force me to only have my absolute favourite designs as part of the collection. Hopefully resulting in having the most amazing collection ever!

So the magic number of designs for my next collection … EIGHT! I just made that up, but it seems like it could be the perfect number. Not too little, not too much, just right.

How many designs to do you think works best for a jewellery collection?

Caged Wrist

2010-05-12T00:03:00.000-07:00

Cheap Monday Cube Cuff over at Nasty Gal. I have little skinny wrists so it would probably look kind of odd on me, but I still love it!

Aroha Silhouettes – 2010 Identity Makeover

2010-05-08T20:38:00.000-07:00

For a while now I’ve felt like Aroha Silhouettes has outgrown the identity I created for the brand back in 2008. Back then Aroha Silhouettes was just a wee spring chicken with no solid direction or aesthetic and I put together the logo before I had even released any jewellery. As time went on and things became more refined I really started to crave a revamp. Initially I toyed with the idea of doing another DIY job on the logo but I decided against it. Just because I can use Illustrator it doesn’t make me a logo designer!

I’ve been a massive fan of Nubby Twiglet’s blog and design work for years, so there was no question about it that I wanted her to be the one to design the new identity.

My wish list for the new logo was pretty extensive. I wanted something that could be used with or without the text ‘Aroha Silhouettes’, fit with my design influences and could be scaled down to teeny tiny while still being recognizable. Most of all I wanted something that helped set Aroha Silhouettes apart from the rest.

Here’s the final result!

I absolutely LOVE it. Love love love it! I think Nubby totally nailed it. It can be scaled down very small and can also be made huge, it would make cool stickers, works as a repetitive pattern and it works in any colour. And having the choice of different lockups makes it super versatile. It fits with my influences and really is everything I was hoping for, the more I stare at it the more I love it! I couldn't be happier with it and I’m so stoked that I decided to have a professional design it.

Thanks Nubby!

Camels, Shawarmas And New Zealand

2010-05-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a whirlwind month and a half! An itchy feet somewhat spontaneous holiday led me to Bahrain in the Middle East. A few nights catching up with friends in Toronto and six glorious nights somewhere kind of random was exactly what I needed to shake up the routine! We fed cookies to camels, indulged in far too many shawarmas, swam in the rooftop pool and drank cocktails. I even got to wakeboard the Persian Gulf! The 33 hour mission back to Vancouver was a bit rough, but the trip was totally worth it.

Just a week after getting back an emergency took me back home to New Zealand on the next direct flight to spend time with friends and family. A sad time, but I'm really happy I went home.

Now I'm all settled back in and ready to get back to being a crazed workoholic! And part of that is giving this blog a lot more love and attention. Initially it was merely a place for me to keep track of Aroha Silhouettes progress and all the amazing reviews and articles that had been written all over the internet about my jewellery. Now I would really love to transform it into something a little more, a blog that I would actually read myself!

Blogging Break

2010-03-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been working on lots of really fun behind the scenes work, making big decisions and taking a little break from all kinds of promotion. But I'll be back soon!

2010 - Onwards And Upwards!

2010-01-23T11:37:00.000-08:00

2010 started off so fantastic, I think it's set the stage for the whole year! Spotting the Aggregate Necklace on TV on the 1st of January was definitely a sign for an onwards and upwards year to come. I have some big goals for Aroha Silhouettes this year and have already started working on them!

Beautiful photo thanks to Erin!

Much much love to Megnificient Made, Quediseno, Threadbared, Burried in Betsy's Closet and Indie Fixx for their much appreciated features at the end of 2009 and beginning of 2010!

Aroha Silhouettes TV Debut

2010-01-02T18:13:00.000-08:00

Last night the most crazy and surreal thing ever happened!

Being the 1st of January I was naturally a little dazed and half watching Peak Season on TV. Out the corner of my eye I saw a girl wearing the Aggregate Necklace! I proceeded to start screaming and pointing at the TV. Further stalking of the episode online proved me right!

Peak Season is a 'reality' show based in Whistler, BC and episode 10 featured a Fashion Exposed fashion show. How Aroha Silhouettes ended up in that fashion show is a total mystery, no idea how it happened.

BEST start to the New Year!

Vinyl Record Jewellery Lookbook

2009-12-06T15:26:00.001-08:00

The Aroha Silhouettes Vinyl Record Jewellery Lookbook has been a long time in the making. It's been on my 'to do' list for what seems like forever and I'm stoked to have it finished up.

The full look book is available for download here

New Limited Edition Blue Vinyl Record Necklaces

2009-12-03T17:51:00.000-08:00

Available in the Aroha Silhouettes online store here.

Aroha Silhouettes Now Available At The Library Of Congress Gift Store

2009-11-14T12:37:00.001-08:00

I'm ecstatic to have another stockist of Aroha Silhouettes jewellery, the Library of Congress Gift Store in Washington, DC. It holds the largest number of books over any library in the world! And it's the perfect fit for the Stainless Phantasmal Hardcover necklaces, earrings and brooches which the store will be carrying. And just in time for Christmas!

Big thank you thank yous to Paper Mango, The View From Here, Geekreative and Ffffound for their internet loving recently!

Holiday Time 2009

2009-10-25T23:12:00.000-07:00

After a solid year filled to the brim with hard work, it was definitely time for a holiday! Mark and I took a complete (well, almost) break from work of all kinds and headed down to America to visit somewhere I've wanted to go all my life ...

Disneyland! It really is 110% the most happy place on earth - I thought that was just their marketing thing, but it honestly truly is! Don't remember the last time I was happy for 10 hours straight. I want to live there! The music that plays throughout the park, the castle, the food, the themed everything everywhere, the amazing rides, parades, fireworks and teacups! It was amazing in every way. We also managed to cram in a short road trip to Las Vegas for a few days of crazy good times before returning to reality back in Vancouver.

A quick side note: a big thank you to Etsy for featuring Aroha Silhouettes in their 'The Space Between' storque article this week!

Happy Birthday Aroha Silhouettes

2009-09-19T17:48:00.000-07:00

Today it's been exactly one year since Aroha Silhouettes was born! And I couldn't have dreamed of a better first year in business. I'm addicted!

The learning curve has been huge and a year ago I had absolutely no idea what I was in for. Thankfully I'm happy being a workaholic! I kind of assumed that it would be all designing and glamorous selling, and didn't really think too much about the endless photos to take, constant emails, accounting, writing, marketing and constant self promotion online. BUT all that aside, I love Aroha Silhouettes to bits! It gets me bouncing of bed on a Sunday morning because I can't wait to get started on working on it, and it keeps me up until the wee hours every night of the week.

And Aroha Silhouettes 1st birthday delight - an article in Granville Magazine!

A big enormous thank you to Janet Gyenes, the assistant editor of Granville Magazine for taking the time to write such a incredible article about Aroha Silhouettes.

Also big props to Notcouture, This Little City, Design Catwalk and Kathryn at Like Gold Dust for being super stunning and featuring Aroha Silhouettes jewellery on their sites!

Aroha Silhouettes - Stainless Phantasmal Lookbook

2009-09-08T22:20:00.000-07:00

The Stainless Phantasmal Lookbook is now available for download!

A huge amount of work went into putting this Lookbook together and it makes me so happy to see everything put together so beautifully!

Stainless Phantasmal Is Out Now!

2009-08-22T23:36:00.000-07:00

Optical illusions disorient the visual perceptual system with their eye-catching impossible lines.

Illusions can be based on an individuals ability to see in three dimensions, even though the image hitting the retina is only two dimensional. The brain tries to find some kind of continuity in what our eyes see, and when our perception does not match with the physical dimensions of the object, an optical illusion is born.

The semi-gloss stainless steel that each piece is etched from catches the light and provides a strong yet lightweight material for the delicate geometric designs. The Stainless Phantasmal collection by Aroha Silhouettes is made up of miniature pieces of unique art that can be worn as three-dimensional eye candy everyday.

Earrings - $46

Necklaces - $52

A Sneak Peek

2009-08-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

Recently I teamed up with the fabulous Andrea and Kaveh of Nardeboon Photography and Emma Garland hair and makeup extraordinaire for a studio photo shoot to get some new images. Our model Siri was absolutely gorgeous and did a fabulous job of modeling the pieces.

I've been wanting to get the Phantasmal Collection designs smaller for such a long time and I'm so happy with how they have turned out! Stainless steel is the perfect lightweight yet strong material for these tiny designs.

They will be available in the Aroha Silhouettes online store on the 22 August 2009, I can't wait!

Portobello West Video

2009-07-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

I just discovered this cool little youtube video of the Portobello West March market. If you look closely for the splash of purple you'll see me giggling!

Craft Show Display Setup

2009-07-05T14:15:00.000-07:00

A few months ago was my first arts and fashion market at Portobello West here in Vancouver. I wanted to come up with a display that left everyone with a fantastic first impression of Aroha Silhouettes and ere's what I came up with for the show ...
A giant sign that matches my business cards + a tall standing easel

Custom displays I designed and had made from white acrylic to make the jewellery stand out

I can't imagine doing a craft show without my handsome helper Mark!

And here's the final result - I went to five different fabric stores in Vancouver in search of the perfect purple fabric for the table, it was totally worth the hunt
It was so much fun doing the show and actually meeting the customers, a rare treat since I mainly sell my jewellery over the internet and never actually see people in person.

Outblush Love

2009-06-22T22:38:00.000-07:00

Outblush is a blog for girls who love to shop! So naturally I was one excited cookie to discover the Red Perception Necklace featured!

Much Music Canada

2009-06-13T14:59:00.000-07:00

I lurrrrrve Much Music Canada, so to be featured on their blog is super duper!

Lucid Contrast In Colour

2009-05-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Lucid Contrast is now available in deep sapphire blue, emerald green and fire engine red!

Each design is made from a vibrant coloured reclaimed 12" vinyl record. When you look closely at each piece you can see the unique grooves that hold the music, creating a one of a kind design.

I can't stop wearing my new pair of emerald green Contour Earrings ...

ECOLS And Starfire Studio

2009-05-02T00:12:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to announce two new retailers for Aroha Silhouettes!

The first store is ECOLS in Hong Kong, a fabulous store dedicated to the eco lifestyle. They also have a super cool ECOLS rating system to illustrate why products they sell are ECO and are selected or designed for the ECOLS store. The rating system considers four main criteria - materials, manufacturing process, creativity and stylishness. I'm so thrilled that they chose Aroha Silhouettes jewellery to be a part of their store.

The second store is Starfire Studios in West Vancouver, set in the picturesque Village of Horseshoe Bay. At Starfire Studio you will find the unique and unusual, attracting the attention of discerning collectors. These objets d'art stimulate the five senses and appeal to those who have that sixth sense.

Sweetspot Canada

2009-04-19T23:52:00.000-07:00

Setting up a facebook page for Aroha Silhouettes has been on my to do list for a while now, so I dedicated my Saturday to getting it all setup. I'm so happy with how it turned out!

I would love, love, love it if you would join me on facebook and become a fan! It's where I'll be posting news, events and photos.

Last week also brought some incredible press from Sweetspot, Canada's first online trend spotting lifestyle guide. It was the cherry on top to find out the feature wasn't just on their website, but it also went out to inboxes all over Canada. Eeeeee!

Another awesome surprise of the week was an article on TreeHugger by the brilliant Cara Smusiak. I'm a massive fan of TreeHugger, it's a media outlet dedicated to driving sustainability into the mainstream. It's so exciting to be featured on my favourite websites!

New Collection - Lucid Contrast

2009-04-12T14:14:00.000-07:00

I'm so thrilled to release my second collection, Lucid Contrast, a collection of eight modern designs now available at Aroha Silhouettes.

Each eco friendly piece is made from reclaimed vinyl records and is one of a kind due to the nature of the unique grooves present in the record prior to cutting. The lightweight earrings and necklaces create striking contrasts with their simplistic designs that go with everything.

Contour necklace - $35

Peephole earrings - $25

Vapour necklace - $35