Doing something new...

Recently I hit a bit of a design slump. It's been said that it does happen from time to time to everyone but you really don't believe it until it happens to you (I seem to never have a stop to the flow of ideas though). I have been through a few bouts of block before but this one was a bit different because sales have been so slow this year that it actually began to effect my self esteem. I started to have some enormous doubts about my design career but when the fog finally cleared, I realized that there is nothing and I mean nothing I'd rather be doing than being a Designer.
To answer the call of the need of lower priced pieces, I have designed a very fashion friendly bag with just half the art! Check it out at my ETSY store.
This is a Tribal Tattoo hand stenciled artful bag that when worn it looks like a tat running down your side. It has so much stank on it.. I love it and  I would love love love some commentary on this new design so please speak up!
There will be several more colors... approx. 12 with some coming with an adjustable strap so that you can slouch over your body or just wear it on your shoulder. It's the style that I like the most and hope you will too. 





See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

So she got the bag!

Now I have given things to people and really received a lot of joy from their happiness of the gift but I don't think anyone has been as enthusiastic as Ms Reiko of http://godsfavoriteshoes.blogspot.com/. This what I got in my email box...

I got it! I got it! I got it! I got my purse! I loveth it with all thine heart and all thine soul!

I honestly laughed out loud! She just has such a way with words... I do really enjoy her blog posts. You gotta read it when you get a chance... it's cute!
Thanks for the support Ms Reiko and may God's blessings and favor pour into your life in such a way your cup runneth over and you share all His love!

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

...can't you hear the drums playing?

Rustic Tribal Tattoo in Orange. No 2 are alike, one of a kind.

Recently, I met a woman Diva via Blogspot who is a serious Fashionista.  Rocking all the latest/greatest designer labels at bargain basement prices, her style intrigued me to know more about her. Reading & responding to her hilarious blog posting made me feel an instant like for her... so much so that I offered to outfit her in one of Wearable Art pieces. Being the Fashion Genius that she is, she took me up on my offer. This one's for you Ms Reiko! http://Godsfavoriteshoes.blogspot.com

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

...rolling, rolling... Rolled!

Here a few more additions to the Madera Collection by Marion Renee. These cute little bags have been a real labor of love as they are a collaboration of me, the Painter and my hubby, the Wood Carver (http://KBDwoodcarving.com). It's been 5 long years of rising and falling trying to work with another artist who has his own vision, his own style and not shy about! Man we had some really hard days coming to an agreement on exactly how we want the Madera Collection to look. Though we are not complete on the collaboration, what we have come up with is considered a huge VICTORY!

The Mini Rollie Bag here is a take from the original Madera Rollie's that debuted in 2009... which have been a hit and featured on many blogs. We tweeked the designs length and changed the interior pocket to be removable.






                    These Mini Madera Rollie Bags are fun and interesting and completely unique.  I am so looking forward to showing the new designs we've got coming up! All I can say is... VIC---TOR---REEEEE!!!

Original Madera Rollie

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

A box... A bag... A Winner!

Well, I finally got my act together enough to take some pics of our latest bag. This bag is a marriage of Hand painted denim and veneered wood secured with screws with a hot chain link strap. This Red Madera Box Bag wears very nicely and has a detachable magnetic zippered pocket so you don't have to take your whole bag with you to lunch or the ladies room.
I have recently learned to love to collaborate with my boyfriend (a.k.a. Hubby). It hasn't been easy at all but when it turns out like this, I have to admit it's totally worth it.
Will  be posting more styles in the next day or so.

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

...something totally unrelated

Here is a smooth duet from a client, friend and fan of mine... Ms LaTanya Lockett! Check her out at http://www.myspace.com/latanyalockett. I really like this whole layout... it has good emotion to it! Hope you enjoy it too!



Don't Dream it's Over from Cy Kuckenbaker on Vimeo.

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

....a new bag, a new dawn

As you can see.. I have been busy with a little yesterday... faith style. I have always wanted to be a graffiti artist but I didn't the guts to try with my limited skills. The last time I tag anything, I was in grade school and it was in bubble letters... ha! Recently I have been wanting to do something that has more meaning... to me at least. Yes, I am a Believer in the Way, the Truth and the Light... Jesus is my Lord and as passionate as I feel about Him and what He's done for me, I know there are so many others who feel the same way... so I created a line called: Give 'em a Reason!  a handbag line completely devoted to sharing the truth about God and a great conversation starter! Though it's in it's in beginning stages... I really feel as if I am on to something here.

Judge for yourself... I would love to hear what you think too!

New styles to come and I am working and improving on my skills daily. So be on the look out for new ... or should I say FRESH STYLES (lovin' the 80s for real!)

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

.... it was the 4th after all!

I needed some flair for my red, white and blue ensemble for the 4th of July.....

I am really lovin' this whole belt movement... mainly because I can make it just like I like it... lovin' creativity! Believe it or not but there's 50 hand stenciled stars on this belt... I don't see the point of making a patriotic piece and not put everything into it. I was inspired by a piece I did some 3 years ago... it is called "Scattered Patriotism" (pic on the left). I put 50 hand stenciled stars on it as well. Though is was a flat clutch, it was large enough to hold all that you needed... it sold that summer. The washed paint made the denim look aged and very worn... it was beautiful! In the picture on the right my skirt was blowin' in the wind like a flag... I love it!





See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

Summer Time Sale 30% off all Acrylic KnitSleeves

That's right! We are having a sale on all Hand Loomed Acrylic KnitSleeve Shrugs...  30% off! There are several colors to choose from and sizes from small to x-large.
This is an excellent time to buy more then one. Normally at $65, now only $45...WOW! Handmade, Hand loomed custom made shrug... get yours today!

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com or go to http://knitsleeves.etsy.com

Very Excited....

Well....

Las Vegas was not at all what it was worked up to be. I have to admit a little disappointment but along the way I say a show friend that I seem to see at almost all of my shows... Sir Vaughan. He reminded me that he really liked my line and was looking for a wallet to buy. He wants something very artsy but with a male feel to it. This is what I have come up with so far...

...and my wheels are just a turning at all the possibilities with this design! It actually has me excited again... something so simple and small has lit a huge spark in me... thanks Sir Vaughan for being so very persistent!


NEW PIECES at http://www.marionrenee.com!

The last few days....

Well, it's the last few days before the big 3 day ACRE Wholesale show in Las Vegas. I have to admit, I am a little anxious. I have never done such a large show for as long as 3 days... I just hope they like me (hehe). I am also concerned with my set up as it is my first with all the walls and shelves and don't let me mention the lighting! I think I'm freaking out about the lighting. Just like you can have great stuff online but if no one sees it you'll get no where, same is said for having a great product but if the lighting is bad and no one can see it... it's for nothing. I am in a crossroad about whether to get clip on lamps vs. track lighting but I have finally made my final decision (I think...) to just get the track lighting and use it as flood lighting and the use several small spot lights attached to the shelving as spot lights... that's it! The booth colors are grey... I usually love the color grey but in this case, it would be better have have a solid black... it would help my work really stand out. So now I am in a mad thought process of making sure that I bring the right accent colors to help with the overall appearance. (I wish I had a majic wand at this time and poof! It's all done... reality check!! not!)

Besides all of that, my faithful helper has decided to not be so faithful... too bad because I could really use some help. I still have about 10 more bags to make but I know I will get it all done.
Ready to see what I have been working on so far....? Here they are!

Yes I have gotten into belts and don't have that much time to really make enough to take with me this weekend so it will have to wait for wholesale life and be introduced next year at the show but this year on the website.

I guess that's all I have to say about this. I am in prayer daily about this grand trip and hope that those who follow my blog would lift me and my 3 companions up in prayer for traveling mercies and protection.

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

I've recently been busy...

 

Yes, I know... it's been awhile since my last post but I have been busy working on my 2010 line debut in June at the ACRE Show. Here's a bag I just recently finished....










And here's a closer look at the detail on that lapel. It's painted denim and leather... I love this new direction!

Here's a beautiful blue with just the right kick of color! Hope you love them as much as I do!

The chain has a denim cozy for those who prefer not to have the chain touch their skin.

My new Scallop Edge Tote bag with 6 interior pockets and one large zippered pocket.

So looking forward to posting some more of my new designs!

So I checked the mail just yesterday...

... and to my surprise, I found my handbag on the front page of the Buyers Guide for the Las Vegas Whole Crafters show.... spring edition. What a surprise! I have had the hardest time lately getting myself motivated to start back to work after taking a short but very much needed break from designing, painting and sewing. Who would have thought vacation could be so damaging to my enthusiasm but has been until now. I am so honored and flattered that they would use my picture of all the pics that could have used as one of the ones for the front page. God always gives me so much favor... I am thankful.
Now to begin again will be difficult as my workroom looks as if it has been abandoned (in a way i has been). Also, I got a message from Fiona of LookBook Hong Kong that she is awaiting a shipment of bags... she doesn't want quantities to get too low as she has already sold 3 of the 8 that were shipped. That's a really good sign... people like them.

Well that's all that's been happening lately. Oh yeah, I am having a Mother's Day Sale on shrugs or "KnitSleeves" 25% off with free shipping (tell somebody!). They make an awesome gift for you or someone else.


See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

It's been a while..

Yes, I know it's been a little while since my last post. I have honestly been in re-evaluation mode for the past 2 weeks. I go through this most every Spring. This issue lately has been price vs. business. At present, my prices are at their highest point and I am planning a huge price cut... 30-40% lower then what is currently listed.
So be on the look out!



See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

A Response to My Bags in Hong Kong....

I got some news from The LookBook today on how well my line is doing in Hong Kong. Her response was interesting, tell me what you think...

as per the LookBook: 

In fact, your handbag design is very special in Hong Kong, we don't have such kind of handpainted handbags widely sold. Customers, especially young and trendy ladies, love them so much. One handbag sold so far, some customers like your handbags but they need to think about it. You know, customers sometimes return later.

Some ladies think the bags are too thin, can't put many things in it, but some ladies who are more concern about the design definitely love the unique and trendy style.

I am excited that there is a place for my line! I'm cool with the ones who think it's too thin, I only sent clutches... they are typically thin. I am going to send larger bags in my shipment. More satchel like styles and a few totes. I think that will rule out that they are too thin statement. 

She also asked that I not put the date on the painting as some of the ladies feel like it's yesterday style but on the contrary, I paint whenever I paint then later design a bag. It's not always an immediate design, there are times when I gotta think about. So ladies, if you should purchase a handbag from me and see a date from 2 years or even 1 year ago, please note that that's the date of the painting not the date of the design. Who wouldn't thought that would have been an issue... not me. (I'm still signing them)

It's all good though, I am loving the feedback!!

The LookBook is located in the Peak Galleria in Hong Kong

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

My camera fell down and went boom.. :(!

Well during a fun wrestling match with my honey my wonderful and reliable camera fell down and went boom. Honestly it was a sad thing because we didn't realize it until it was time to take pics of a new bag (it's my preview of what's to come for this year).

I took a picture with my camera phone but there's no flash and a horrible reflective shine right on the front.

I am so very sad that I do not have a better picture to debut with. We are on our way to getting a new camera but there are so many choices, we are looking for the best one to suit our needs (it has to take clear shots and have lots of features).

My camera phone is not horrible but it leaves alot to be desired. Good bye dear sweet Olympus camera, you took great pictures and was so very easy to use.. you were just dropped one to many times. You will be missed... :(.

The bag is titled "Aqua Tribal Tattoo". Basically this is what a tattoo would look like in my tribe. There will be many more of this type design to come. This particular bag is mine but will be redone... of course each one is hand done so they are all one of a kind. I've got a bad smoked orange tribal tattoo clutch on it's way and a fierce bright yellow big bag on it's off my table. Hopefully I will have the new camera by the time they are done so I can share them with you. This bag will retail in the neighborhood of $120 to $400; depending on size and interior details that are needed. This bag has 8 pockets interior pockets and a large area. I am completely organized yet compact.

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com 
(This bag has not yet been posted to website)

Finally, it's been shipped!

Well, I finally shipped my items off to debut in Hong Kong. I guess I find it a bit strange to list "The LookBook in Hong Kong" as one of the boutiques that host my line but after all the rejection and strange business practices in the states with small shops, small minded owners and awful PR firms, this is a welcomed change.
I honestly am keeping my head to the sky on this one and by faith, standing on... well faith. There isn't much  I can do really. God is the only one that will establish me and that what I have to keep reminding myself day after day. No one has my best interest in mind like He does. I am a blessed woman.
I sent clutches playing it kinda safe with those.. I figure that they could be easy sells in the shop and can help get people interested in my line without a large financial commitment.
Here are a few pics of what I sent:

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

Taking a short break...

After a crazy week last week, this week I have been taking it a little easier, re-evaluating my strategies for my upcoming ventures (Hong Kong, Las Vegas, The San Diego Museum of Art...?). I feel a need to take my time and really make every little thing count. Every stitch, every zipper, every buckle to every rivet... it's kinda hard to explain but I have a clearer vision and have my eye on the prize.

I say all of that to say I've been looming. I find it very relaxing and thought provoking. Here's a cute shrug "Knit Sleeve" on a cute model I got a chance to work with last summer. I really loved her confidence. It makes all the difference.
Also, what I have discovered it that I have free range over the work I produce and I don't think I really realized that. I feel so very compelled to do what the season dictates but with paint, you kinda make your own season within the seasin. For instance, I can make a color my fashion statement, a beautiful face or even a particular object, such as a flower or heart or sphere. I guess I am saying, I'm going to do it my way like I did in the beginning... Looking forward to this new year with all of it's possibilities.

Praises to the King!

.....Good night



See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

Back from Palm Springs...

Well as some of you know, I had my 1st show of the year in Palm Springs, CA... The Talmadge Art Show. Unfortunately, sales were not high for not only me but several other people. I spent the day encouraging myself and many others, telling them that this was the 1st show in Palm Springs and it will take some time for us to become as popular as we are in San Diego and Encinitas. 

I did get some really good reviews from many people about my collection and lots of people took my card so who knows what the future could bring... ;).

I'm happy with my new set up as it is not at all as full as I had hoped it looked (the space was a little smaller then I expected) but I did the best with what I had... here's a few pictures:

 

Surprisingly, these were taken with my camera phone and came out pretty ok. My normal set up will have more walls, no table and several display shelves. I look forward to setting up my ideal "Mobile Boutique", as my husband has coined it. I will post pictures as soon as I can on that.

My new sign got a lot of great responses and one vendor has put in an order for one for her booth....

Go Kenneth!! (http://KDBWoodworking.com)

All in all it was a nice weekend, the weather was unbelievably beautiful with the sun shiny brightly, cool breezes flowing softly and gorgeous snow capped mountain views. I love going out of town even if it's just for the weekend.

Thanks Linda for the awesome birthday/Christmas present... the digital photo picture was the perfect touch!

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

One of my bags listed in a treasury on ETSY.COM.. I consider this a great honor!!
See which one was picked!


http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=87205

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

My 1st Baby Bag...

CHOCOLATE STRAWBERRY BABY HAND PAINTED HANDMADE DENIM BAG

Now I know that this is not the best picture of this bag but I flew out the house with this bag still dripping wet with varnish and had to take the picture with my cell phone camera. This is the 1st bag that I did side wall panels and it has a total of 8 pockets and a separation compartmental wall. It was no easy feat but I am glad to have had this challenge... it just showed me how much more I could do. I will try to get better pictures that show the dimensions better and the interior.

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

Kim Burrell and Whitney Houston... friendship!

BET Videos

I posted this because I like how this really meant something to the 2 ladies here and you can see Whitney Houston's mother looking on with joy that her daughter has a true friend. I found this to be very moving and uplifting.

            See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com

It's like seeing my name in lights.....

Recently, my very talented husband told me he was making a sign for me to take to shows to build my brand name. I wish I had taken pictures before the paint job so that you could see how cool wood really is. Oh well!

Here is what I've got so far...

 

This is the beginning of the stencil peeling process after applying the gold leaf. He's on the "W"....

A little QC before the next layer is peeled away... this is just before he decided to add the gold leaf to the division line on the sign. I didn't think I would like the silver logo and the gold lettering but so far so good....

The full reveal begins....

The stencil peel away on this part was a little tricky. We didn't want to lift any gold leaf that was suppose to stay....

Even though the process is still not complete, I had to show the progress of my beautiful sign done by my very sweet husband, Kenneth. To see more of his creations or maybe even get your own sign, check out his site at http://KBDwoodcarving.com 

 I will post the finished product with all the gold leafing done and it being sealed. Excited!

See my whole collection at http://www.marionrenee.com