Thursday, June 24, 2010

A new look!

I have recently updated my logo, and have just finished changing all my avatars over. It seems that graphic designers like to tinker with their logos, so I'll give you a bit of background as to why I have changed it.

Firstly, although my business name was originally rose among thorns, it seemed every time I signed up to something online, that was already taken. When I first opened my felt shop, I discovered it was too long for their 12 character limit, so racked my brains trying to think of a way of shortening it. Eventually I came up with roseinthorns, and my felt shop was born. So everytime I signed up for something and roseamongthorns wasn't available, I used roseinthorns instead. Then one day someone suggested I change the name to Rose in Thorns. I mulled over this for quite some time, and when I moved to full-time self-employment, thought it would be a good time to make the change.

Secondly, I had got a few comments that my logo looked more like a tulip than a rose. I was quite convinced it looked more like a rose, but eventually felt it might be best to have a logo that didn't resemble a tulip to anyone. I am quite pleased with how it turned out, and even though I really liked the old one beforehand, I like the new one much better now.

If you are in the market for a new logo, or perhaps another graphic design project, do get in touch, and we can discuss your requirements. I am planning on making a website to go with my new logo, which will have some examples of what I can do for you. In the meantime, enquiries are welcome.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

A round-up of upcoming Fairs and Markets

It's rather mad here at the moment, because as of Sunday I will be at a craft market/fair every second weekend, so there is lots of work to be done. I'd love to see you if you can make it out to one, so this is where you can find me:

27th June - Rolleston Community Market
This regular market is being held indoors over the winter period, which is very welcome news with the weather we've been having! It's not too far from Christchurch, and you can find a great selection of handmade goods, including candles, clothing, children's toys, jewellery, and also fresh produce, including organic fruit, cheese, bread, meats and fresh flowers. There is something for everyone, including hot food and a bouncy castle.

11th July - A Craft Affair
Formerly known as Craft 2.0 Christchurch, A Craft Affair has grown from the success of these markets, and we now have our very own fair. Regular attendees will already know about the great selection of high quality handmade crafts available. If you haven't been yet, it's well worth a visit. If you're not a fan of crowds, I'd recommend coming a bit later in the day, as it usually quietens down a bit as the day goes on. You can find out more on the blog, and even plan your shopping, as interviews with all the stallholders are being put up each day - keep an eye out for mine. If you happen to have a copy of today's Press, have a look at page 14 of Zest, there is a feature on A Craft Affair, including a quote from yours truly! For a readable version, click here.
24th July - Auckland Art and Craft Fair
For the first time, Rose in Thorns will be hitting the road, and Aucklanders will have the opportunity to peruse my wares. This will be the first ever Auckland Art & Craft Fair, a one of a kind, special event designed to showcase a selection of New Zealands best independant and contemporary designers, artists, and crafters. It will be held at the Art Lounge of the Auckland Art Gallery, from 11am till 3pm. For more info, and artist interviews, check out the blog. You can read my interview here.

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

All the Tea in China

When you combine great company, beautiful china, unique candles and some home baking, you end up with a fantastic Rose in Thorns Tea Party. Thanks to everyone that came, it was great to see you all. Here are some pics for those that couldn't make it. Oh, and because I know you are wondering where I got all the beautiful china from, it was hired from the China Cabinet, who I highly recommend if you are ever in need of some china. They have a fantastic selection to choose from, and provide great service as well.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

We have a winner!

The lucky winner of my giveaway for reaching 100 fans on facebook is... Maddie aka lilmagoolie! Congratulations Maddie, I hope you enjoy your prize. Thanks to everyone who entered, and all the lovely comments you left, I really do appreciate them all, and it's nice to see which products are the most popular.

If you are thinking of coming to my Tea Party on Sunday, and haven't RSVP'd yet, if you could so in the next day or two, that would be grand. Then I can make sure I have enough teacups, cupcakes and free gifts to go around! If you aren't on facebook, just leave a comment on this post, or send me an email.

In other news, Rose among Thorns has had a makeover, which will be unveiled in the next few days. Watch this space!

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Time for a cuppa

I am pleased to announce that I have a new candle stockist, Madame Fancy Pants. If you are in Wellington, you can now buy a selection of my candles, including the soy teacups, from their store in Cuba Street. It's a great wee shop filled with lots of awesome goodies. Definitely worth a visit!

If you are in Christchurch on the 2oth June, you can come to my soy candle launch tea party! I am even contemplating making cupcakes for the occasion. I've never made them before, but there is a first time for everything. There will be vintage teacups and other such things to set the scene. It will also be a great opportunity to pick up some bargains, as I will have some specials on the day. I will also light a few different candles so you can see how they look, as they come alive once they are lit up.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Giveaway for reaching 100 fans

Now that I have reached over 100 fans on facebook, it's time for a giveaway to say thank you! I wanted to include one of my new products, which is why I didn't do this as soon as I had reached 100 fans. The prize pack up for grabs is: 1x mini teardrop candle, in your choice of rose, frangipani, or rainforest fragrance, 1x pair of hand-dipped tapers made from recycled convent candles, and 1x small soy tin candle, in your choice of rose, frangipani or vanilla.

To enter, all you need to do is be (or become) a fan of my facebook page, and leave a comment below this post saying what your favourite item from my shop is. If you tweet, facebook or blog about this giveaway, you'll get an extra entry – just don't forget to mention in your comment that you have done so. The competition will run for a week, and will be drawn on the 15th June.

Good luck, and thanks so much for all your support!