Daily Gems & other musings

In creating our Diversity in Design Style Board series, we set out to find and feature established and emerging designers that we both loved for their work on the runway as well as for how and why it's all created.  In discovering the line Maki Oh, founded by Amaka Osakwe, we were inspired not only by beautiful design, but also by the brand's vision to extend "beyond physical beauty to a textured, layered, and three-dimensional aesthetic, embodying the philosophies of sustainability, preservation, strength and complex simplicity."  The brand is centred in a strong sense of identity and culture, creating narrative pieces...

When we discovered Anaïs Jourden Mak's collection when creating our Diversity in Design StyleBoard series, we became instantly obsessed with the Hong Kong-born designers modern, unique take on femininity, something that felt so refreshing and new. Anaïs gained popularity quickly, with her designs seen on celebrities like Ariana Grande and Bella Hadid.  When we discovered her Ready to Wear collection, we were immediately drawn to elements like sweet polka dot details paired with edgy combat boots, classic bow accent on this super-modern fuchsia dress and a classic, feminine sweater set atop a sparkly black skirt. Perhaps our favorite discovery was when we discovered that,...

Image via eco-age.com Not only does Studio 189 create beautiful, colorfully printed pieces that we want to wear everywhere, but they are a beyond inspiring brand.  We discovered the brand when curating our Diversity in Design Styleboard Series, and immediately went to work to learn more.  Co-founded by Rosario Dawson and Abrima Erwiah, Studio 189 "is an artisan produced fashion lifestyle brand and social enterprise that focuses on empowerment, creating jobs and supporting education and skills training.  The brand currently operates a store in Accra (Ghana), an ecommerce site, a manufacturing facility in Accra, and supports various community led projects in Africa and...

Happy Monday, friends!  With the holidays just days away, we're keeping the Small Business Gift Guides coming - next up:  the best in Coffee and Tea! This round, we're not only featuring some of our very favorite brands for a coffee or tea buzz, but you can visit these locations in the East Bay to enjoy all of these five-star reviewed goodies and pick up your sweet treats in person for all those last minute gifting needs!   Bundts & Crumpets Specialty Teas @ the Mel & Ash Beau-Tea Lounge We've been obsessed with premium loose leaf teas ever since Bundts...

We're excited to announce a new way of reaching us!  For the convenience of our customers and for small businesses supporting other small businesses, we've partnered with our favorite local café One Plus to provide a safe place for customers to drop off jewelry and repairs and grab a cup of coffee!    HOW IT WORKS:   Holiday Hours Notice:  Before dropping off, pease check directly with One Plus Café for holiday hours.  You can find them on Instagram HERE or call 510-495-0209. 1. Upon arrival, come in and mention that you're here to drop off for viv&ingrid!   2. No appointment is necessary but please call/text (510)...