Saturday, December 31, 2011

Australia, Here We Come!

In 2012, a fantastic new gallery will be opening is Melbourne, the Karen White Gallery. And our amigurumi will be sold in the gallery when it opens!

The Gallery is being opened by Karen White of Kewzoo Designs. Karen is a fellow member of The IndiExhibit, a big supporter of the arts, & an extraordinary artist herself. I received one of her cards in the American Music Awards swag bag from The Owls Of Kewzoo graphics line. It combines nature & whimsical art in a perfect blend!

Be sure to like her gallery's page for all the latest updates, including her opening date: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Karen-White-Gallery/178541452178856 Ler her know Brianne's Basics sent you!

NEW PAGES ADDED

Just added a few new pages to our website! Check them out :-)

* Amigurumi: Added information/links on ordering & a slideshow
* Dolls: Added information/links on ordering & a slideshow
* Jewelry: Added information/links on ordering & a slideshow

We also added new pages to our Online Store, including the Jewelry Ordering page and the Add-Ons page.

Also, be sure to check out our Flickr & Tumblr pages for brand new photos, with more being added today!

Friday, December 23, 2011

Our brand new online store!

We took the plunge & created a brand new online store: http://shop.briannesbasics.com

Why did we create a separate online store? Well, it all comes down to money (seems like most things do!) By having a store on "other" websites, we were being charged ridiculous fees. We are a charity store, and those fees were cutting into the amount we were able to donate. So we figured, why not try to cut out the middle man, that way we have less fees & more to donate!

Go to the site & take a look around! The site is easy to navigate & use. To the left you'll see the pages for each amigurumi price level. To order, you simply choose which amigurumi you want & then click "Add To Cart". You can also leave a "note to seller" letting us know your color preferences.

We hope you enjoy the site, and as always, thank you for your continued support!

We're Now On Tumblr!

We now have a Tumblr: http://briannesbasics.tumblr.com We'll be updating our tumblr with pictures of works in progress, pictures of our products, events, quotes, anything that we love! So follow us & spread the word :-)

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Miss California Pageant, Here We Come!

The IndiExhibit has been given the opportunity to do the swag bags for the Miss California pageant in January! We're honored to providing gift certificates for the Miss California and Miss California Teen contestants! Good luck to the contestants!

American Music Awards Gifting Suite!

On November 19, I had the honor of once again representing The IndiExhibit, this time at the American Music Awards Gifting Suite. As always, it was a blast! I got to meet lots of celebs, including Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top), Chaka Khan, Zach Woodlee (lead choreographer on Glee), & many more. To see all my pictures from the event, go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/briannesbasics/

Monday, December 19, 2011

And The Winner Is...

And the winners of our Amigurumi Opportunity Drawing is...
SHELLEY MAGNUS!
Congrats! She wins a OOAK Rachel doll amigurumi, as seen at the American Music Awards Gifting Suite!

2nd place: Lynne R. (AMAs Gift Pack)
3rd place: Joanna L. (mini AMAs Gift Pack)

All who entered will receive a coupon for our online store!

Thank you all for supporting the Ronald McDonald House!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Sponsor Spotlight: Carol Creech Studios

I was first introduced to Carol Creech Studio at the 2011 Primetime Emmys Gifting Suite. We had been fellow members of The IndiExhibit for some time, but it was the first time I got to see her artwork in person.

I instantly fell in love.

Carol's artwork perfectly blends reality with whimsy. Her drawing are true to life, as close to a photograph as you can get. Yet the strokes and shading are so blended and soft that you feel as though you're looking at your dream house, not a drawing of your actual house.

About Carol: "I am an artist based in Ann Arbor, MI, and I love to draw! Although a librarian by profession, I have been an artist all of my life. Whether in pencil or pen, I enjoy rendering subjects from the natural world as well as the built environment and have a very detailed style.

In addition to drawing commissioned home and pet portraits for nearly 15 years, I discovered the fascinating world of botanical and natural science illustration and have had the opportunity to take courses through the School of Botanical Art & Illustration at Brookside Gardens in Maryland. Pen and ink, graphite pencil, and colored pencil are my favorite media with my most recent botanical works being a combination of ink and colored pencil. I feel that the crisp, delicate lines of fine ink work really help to define a plant or blossom without overpowering it.


Memberships: American Society of Botanical Artists, Guild of Natural Science Illustrators."

Not only does Carol create amazing portraits and nature drawings, she also sells her designs on Zazzle and sells fabrics on Spoonflower. With such a wide variety of merchandise and designs, there truly is something for everyone. Choose an item for the doglover in your life, the crafter, the botanical enthusiast, or even the historian in your family. Commission a home portrait for your grandparents of their childhood home.

Carol's artwork is beyond amazing, and truly appeals to everyone of all ages.

Be sure to visit Carol Creech Studio on Facebook and Twitter, and let her know Brianne's Basics sent you!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

A Call For Sponsors!

Brianne's Basics is now taking sponsors for our blog! We have 3 very affordable options for advertising.

The IndiExhibit shows have been crucial in the success of our business, and in turn crucial to our charity work. We are hoping to generate enough funds to continue doing these amazing shows. Not only are we building our business, but we're helping others build theirs as well.

We have participated in the 2011 Sundance, Golden Globes, Primetime Emmys, and American Music Awards Gifting Suites. In addition, the founder Heather Nelson has repped at the MTV Movie Awards, Primetime Emmys, and American Music Awards Gifting Suites. Our website traffic has spiked more and more every time we participate in these events. As The IndiExhibit gets more well known, so has Brianne's Basics.

So we're putting out a call to our friends, customers, fellow business owners, and charity organizations. Our very affordable sponsorship prices start at $10, and runs for two months. All packages include a blog post highlighting and thanking sponsors immediately following each celebrity gifting suite.

Our business would be NOTHING without the support of YOU. Now we're asking for just a bit more. Thank you for your continued support!

Monday, November 28, 2011

Win A OOAK Rachel Berry Amigurumi From The 2011 AMAs Gifting Suite!

I am giving away a RACHEL BERRY AMIGURUMI, as seen at The IndiExhibit table at the American Music Awards!

Tickets are $2 each, or 3 for $5.

1st prize: Rachel Berry handmade crochet amigurumi 2nd prize: A gift bag of items from The IndiExhibit members, as given to celebrities at the American Music Awards Gifting Suite Every participant also gets a coupon for my online store.

100% of the proceeds will go to the Ronald McDonald House. I have a friend who has frequently stayed there while her daughter was in the hospital, and I love what they do.

TO PURCHASE TICKETS, send via Paypal to briannesbasics {at} ymail {dot} com. OR if you live locally, you can purchase tickets by messaging me.

This Rachel Berry doll is one of a kind, and was on display at the American Music Awards. As seen on The Insider, soon to be in ET & US Weekly.

INVITE YOUR FRIENDS at http://www.facebook.com/events/205400822870113/


Sunday, November 27, 2011

An Extra Special Doll For An Extra Special Person

I just spoke with the doll recipient, and she said I can blog it.

The extra special doll is for... LORETTA DEVINE! One of my favorite actresses!

We met at the Primetime Emmys, and she fell in love with my Sue Sylvester doll. She said she crochets, but can never get her stitches perfect like mine LOL A few weeks later, she called about ordering a doll. Out of respect, I never mentioned who the "extra special doll" was for. But I spoke with her tonight about delivery, & she said I can absolutely blog about it.

Ms. Devine is someone I admire, respect, and I'm a fan of. Not only that, she crochets. So creating this doll was an exciting and nerve wracking experience.

So here it is. I wasn't given any details or guidelines, she just told me she wanted a mini doll of her & she knew whatever I came up with would be "wonderful". What an amazing compliment!


Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Pixie & Nora Need Your Help!

Most of you remember the adorable amigurumi I made for my friend Nora Blansett. I made a pet tribute named Pixie. I absolutely loved making Pixie. I couldn't stop looking at her picture because she is so darn cute!

Unfortunately Pixie is now sick, very sick, and Pixie and her owner Nora need our help.

Nora has set up an auction on Facebook at her page http://www.facebook.com/BorealisArt Not only am I donating an amigurumi, but I'm also donating my proceeds from my November sales to Pixie's health fund! You can see the auction on Facebook. So please SPREAD THE WORD, and order your amigurumi today! Help this adorable dog and her loving master.

Pixie's situation, in Nora's own words:
My dog, my beloved Pixie, is very sick. She has multiple tumours and the doctor is pretty sure she has breast cancer. So here's the thing: I need to raise $1200. NOW. She has to have major surgery right away -- and fact is, I don't have $1200. I'm selling everything. EVERYTHING. The originals will start at $25. Just $25. The bidding will go for a week for each piece and bidding must be in $1 increments. Ever want a $500 painting for the cost of a pizza? Now is your chance. My art doesn't mean anything to me without my Pixie. Shipping is $10 and not included in the price. Multiple purchases can be combined. I *WILL* be adding more ART, DOLLS and JEWELLERY over the days and weeks ahead. If what you want isn't here yet, it will be. I've had some questions about donating -- and I will gladly accept them by paypal: BorealisArt@yahoo.ca I'm going to scan in the veterinary hospital estimate, Pixie's photo, give a little background and set up an "Event" with all the information. I'm really disorganized right now. I knew when I felt the tumours what they were and got her to the vet immediately, but the reality is setting in and instead of feeling more together, I'm actually feeling MORE disorganized. Pixie wasn't spayed because I'd hoped to have a litter... just one pup... for when she's gone. She has refused every single stud I've offered her. I suppose she always knew that she'd be one-of-a-kind to me. When I went to see about getting her spayed, I was informed she had a massive heart problem. I decided NOT to risk it, and now the fact that she never had litter and is still intact has caused her to develop breast tumours. She's seven, and the doc said this isn't "unexpected" -- but I prayed a lot over the years to spare her any problems associated with not being spayed. Unfortunately, my fears have happened and at the very worst time, too. Those of you who will be bidding or donating have my most sincere thanks. There aren't any words I can tell you to explain what this will mean to me.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Dollars For Dominic: Helping A Family Rocked By Tragedy

On October 12, So Cal was rocked with the senseless killing of eight people at Salon Meritage in Seal Beach. One of those killed was Michelle Fournier, a Lakewood resident. As a longtime Lakewood resident, I was in disbelief.

Brianne's Basics is proud to be participating in the Dollars For Dominic fundraising event THIS SATURDAY, November 5, from 2-6pm. The event will be at Tracy's Bar & Grill (5511 E. Spring Street in Long Beach). This event will benefit a trust for Michelle's children.

"For a $5 donation, attendees will enjoy hors d'oeuvres and entrees provided by Jill’s Gourmet to Casual Catering, and live music by MO50. Businesses and members of the community are encouraged to donate items for door prizes and a silent auction to be held at the event. Full menu and full bar are also available."
http://www.lbpost.com/news/staffreports/12685

A Facebook page has been started for information & updates: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Dollars-For-Dominic/288581451166745

We are donating a gift certificate to the raffle, and a customized doll for the silent auction, plus other assorted items.

We are participating in this event because as a mother I feel for her family. If I were in that position, I would want to know my children were being cared for as well.

If you're a local, I encourage you to attend. If you're a business, I encourage you to donate something.

I hope to see you, or your business, at the event. Thank you!

Sunday, October 30, 2011

Christmas Doll Amigurumi: Spread Christmas Cheer Yearround

Our Christmas holiday dolls are here! These adorable dolls can be personalized for Christmas or Hanukkah (Kwanzaa available by special request). This Christmas cutie is perfect as a gift, decoration, or both! I'm now taking preorders until November 6. If you order your doll now, she's $20 shipped (reg $25 plus $5-10 s/h). You'll also be entered into a drawing for a free penguin ball amigurumi ($7 value, plus s/h).

Dolls will begin shipping on December 1, & will available for a short time only! To order yours, email us at briannesbasics@ymail.com

To be entered in the drawing, payment must be received by Nov 6. All dolls paid in full will be shipped on December 1, guaranteed barring any extenuating circumstances. Dolls paid after Nov 6 will be shipped by Dec 15. Winner of the penguin will be drawn on Nov 7 & announced on this website. Drawing open to all, US & international.


Saturday, October 29, 2011

CRAFT FAIR Today!

I'll be at the Broken Loaf Food Pantry Autumn Boutique at First United Methodist Church of Lakewood (4300 Bellflower Blvd, Lakewood CA). I'll have a few amigurumi for sale, & anyone who orders theirs today gets FREE shipping & a FREE mini knit stocking!

Come visit us!

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Need your votes to win a headshot!

So I did something a bit odd for me. I entered a headshot contest. Yep! But this one's different. I'm in a contest to WIN a headshot! http://on.fb.me/voteforheather4

Why enter you may ask? My charity craft business, BriannesBasics.com, is growing by leaps and bounds. That means, more orders, more exposure, and most importantly more charity work. I think having a professional headshot would definitely be a good thing.

So PLEASE, take a minute and vote for me at http://on.fb.me/voteforheather4 I used this picture, and I'm the 4th photo. You have to leave a comment for your vote to count.

Thank you so much!!!


Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Win This Adorable Pumpkin Amigurumi!

I'm running my FIRST giveaway with RaffleCopter! I'm pretty excited.

To celebrate, I'm giving away this adorable Pumpkin Crochet Amigurumi. This would make an adorable decoration for Thanksgiving! Contest runs from NOW until Friday, October 28. (No purchase necessary!)

There are many ways to enter, so check out the widget below. I'll be running quite a few more giveaways and specials for customers and newsletter subscribers, so be sure to sign up for my newsletter at http://bit.ly/subscribetobb

Good luck to all of you!

Friday, October 14, 2011

We Are Now On Flickr

Brianne's Basics now has a Flickr account! I'll be uploading pictures there of works in progress & completed amigurumi. Enjoy!
If the slideshow doesn't appear, you can find us at http://www.flickr.com/photos/briannesbasics

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Emmys Gifting Suite #3: Celebs Galore!

One of the perks of working the Gifting Suites is meeting the celebrities! It always fun to meet the actors behind some of your favorite characters.

You can see all of the celebrity photos at http://www.facebook.com/theindiExhibit



Emmys Gifting Suite #2: Mini Sue

For the Emmys event, I made a Sue Sylvester amigurumi, & BOY was she a hit! Lots of celebs commented on her, before even knowing it was mine. Loretta Devine (the Chief's wife on Grey's Anatomy) was so impressed because she's a crocheter herself. She said "this is amazing work! I can never get MY stitches that perfect!" LOL Dot Marie Jones (Coach Beiste from Glee) loved it so much that she bought it, & is taking it to the set! Catherine O'Hara said she wanted to pose with "my friend, Jane Lynch" & hugged it. It was awesome to get so much amazing feedback.



Emmys Gifting Suite Part 1: Our Members!

Every time I do an event, I'm blown away by the talent, creativity, & dedication of my fellow members of The IndiExhibit. Every event, the members outdo themselves.

Here's just a sampling of the FABULOUS items that were in the celebrity & press bags. You can find links to all their sites on my IndiExhibit Emmy Participants page. You can also find out more about the IndiExhibit at http://www.theindiexhibit.org & our brand spanking new blog http://theindiexhibit.blogspot.com




























Knit Mini Christmas Stockings

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas... handmade knit stockings, 4 1/2 in tall, perfect gift for coworkers & friends! These stockings have been one of my bestsellers for many years. Each one is $3 + shipping, 2 for $5, or 4 for $10! FREE Gift Wrapping available!


Two Peas In A Pod Crochet Amigurumi

Do people tell you that you & your significant other are two peas in a pod? Or how about you & your best friend? Give this gift to that special someone to remind them how very special they are to you. These adorable peas can be personalized with bows, top hats, hearts, flowers, anything. These peas are also a perfect & unique wedding gift, just add a top hat & wedding veil.


Vampire's Kiss Crochet Choker

Are you dressing up as your favorite vampire this Halloween? Are you counting down the days til Twilight: Breaking Dawn is released? Take your vampire obsession to a whole new & cute level with this handmade Vampire's Kiss crochet choker. Perfect for costumes & fanatics alike!


"Mooo" Says The Baby (Crochet) Cow!

This adorable baby cow is a great addition for a kid's room, your country kitchen, or even your adorable cow collection!

Email me to order yours today!


Halloween Candy Corn! For Your Little Monster

Just in time for Halloween, Candy Corn Amigurumi! These adorable amigurumi can be personalized any way you want: plain, with a face, boy, girl, even a vampire! Order by October 15 to ensure Halloween delivery! These are a perfect gift & addition to your home decorations.

To order yours, email me at briannesbasics@ymail.com



Pet Crochet Amigurumi: Personalized For You! Cats, Dogs, & More!

Starting a couple of months ago, I started getting special requests: amigurumi honoring their pets! I've discovered I very much enjoyed making those ones, even more than usual! Each one was one of a kind & more than that, they were personal. In some odd way, it became emotional for me, to create these beautiful amigurumi to honor someone's family member. I worked with each customer on the right shading & markings.

If you have a beloved pet that you'd like to immortalize, email me at briannesbasics@ymail.com Each personalized amigurumi comes with a locket as well. Together we can create a one of a kind amigurumi to honor your beloved family member.





 
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