About the Designers

I believe that part of our freedom is the way in which we express ourselves in our world. I wholeheartedly embrace that form of expression. Sometimes though we hold ourselves back for any number of reasons. It is the philosophy at Gems from Paradise that the accessories we create for you will symbolize for you the very values that you wish to be known for. 

I, Brenda, have been a Creative in one way shape or form since I can remember. When I was little and my parents would get ready to go out, I remember sitting with my mom while she chose what to wear and how to accessorize it. I think I was most inspired by her pearls and opals. I loved the pearls because of their history and the opals because they were so special to her. I remember her cautioning me to be very careful with them because they were so very soft and easily damaged. (That, of course, only added to my fascination with them! lol)

I'll never tire of the look I see on the faces of people who find the right accessories to express who they are to the world. You'll know right away if the fit is right. And every time you accessorize, that connection will be strengthened. Whether you find that piece on the website or as we collaborate to make a custom design, this is the wish I have for you!

10% from the sale of each piece of jewellery will be donated to AboutFace. I chose this non-profit organization because life is damn hard enough without people staring at you or socially excluding you because of what you look like and they have some amazing programs and ways in which they help people! If we've learned nothing in 2020, and now 2021, it's to look beyond the superficial to the soul of the person infront of you...and make mind-heart-connections on the truest of levels. 

If you love to shine, check out Gems from Paradise Jewellery!

********************

Socks by Sandy are handknit socks made by one of my besties. Sandy loves to knit and has made some amazing original designs over the years. She's also a very accomplished embroiderer and I am blessed to own a number of her pieces. 

I can attest to the quality of these socks as I currently own over 30 pairs! There are many colours from which to choose. Because the majority of them are made from 75% wool and 25% nylon, you can throw them in the washer and dryer and they keep their shape! Of course, with owning so many pairs, mine never wear out! I simply rotate them according to what outfit I'm wearing! :D All teasing aside, they're of great quality and will last you for a very long time! 

The other great thing about Sandy is that she has a huge heart and loves to donate to the SPCA (the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). A bonus is that knitting keeps her fingers nimble and helps her pass away the time. We decided that it would be a great idea if we collaborated, so Sandy donates her time and talent and the profits from each pair of socks purchased go to help animals who can no longer fend for themselves. That means that with EVERY pair of socks sold, a $10.00 donation is made to help with the care of cats or dogs who have fallen on hard times and the remainder goes back in to purchasing new supplies to keep the cycle moving. The added bonus is that everyone's heart grows just a little bit larger! 

If socks are your jam, check out Socks by Sandy! 

********************

just.a.tad accesories is founded by my good friend, Tracey. We've known each other since we were teenagers working in a fabric store together and I can attest to her workmanship. Her work is impeccable and her eye for detail and design is exquisite.

This is what Tracey had to say about just.a.tad: "Handcrafted bags just a tad ott [over the top] … because accessories should never be boring."

 "A not-so-secret fabric hoarder, I enjoy making bags and accessories that have a bit of a twist.  These limited-edition makes often feature my favourite fabrics\ designers, including Tula Pink, Alexander Henry, Kaffe Fassett, Robert Kaufman, custom panels and more."

A percentage of the profits from each sale of just.a.tad accessories is being donated to The Red Door Shelter, whose work has been helping and giving hope to families in desperate need of shelter and support for over 30 years. 

If you love to accessorize then check out just.a.tad.accessories!