Category: unique

How to Make Your Own Layered Boho Statement Necklace

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date November 17, 2014
7 Comments on How to Make Your Own Layered Boho Statement Necklace

As a kid, I loved going through my fabulous grandma’s costume jewelry collection. I could never narrow it down to one or even two favorite accessories, and instead piled as many necklaces on as my little kid neck would allow.

So, once I became aware that layered statement necklaces were an actual trend and saw necklaces like Dylanex’s Falkor ($890):

And Nasty Gal’s Coined It Necklace (only $55!)

Another one of Dylanex’s amazing necklaces, the Bowie ($820)

and Urban Outfitters’ Medina ($68)

I have been trying to create my own cheaper “DIY” version. I quickly realized it’s not quite as easy as throwing on every silver necklace I own and walking out the door. I feel like I am constantly walking a fine line between “fashionable” and “mentally unstable homeless person”, when it comes to my personal style. It was actually pretty difficult to mix and match pieces together to create something tasteful and stylish (and doesn’t look like I raided my Grandma’s costume jewelry with my eyes closed). I ended up with two layered statement pieces: one silver and one gold…Usually, I prefer gold colored jewelry but there are a lot of awesome silver metal boho statement necklaces out there to choose from.

My necklaces are the Coin Fringe Pendant Necklace ($12.50) from Forever21

and the Silver Tribal Necklace from World Market ($14.99)

And my second “gold” colored layered necklace:

There are definite pros and cons to trying to making your own Layered Boho Statement Necklace piece.

pros: cheaper, unique, and more layering options when you buy each individual necklace.

cons: tangled mess of chains errrrvywhrrrr.

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Tags accessories, anthropologie, boho, cheap, chic, DIY, fall fashion, fall style, necklace, nordstroms, pendant, personal style, statement jewelry, trendy, tribal jewelry, wardrobe, women

activity affordable apartment art autumn bright colors cactus circles craft crafts creative creative project creativity custom decorating decoration decorations design designs diy DIY creative diy gift idea DIY project Downtown Market easy easy craft easy craft idea easy crafts eco friendly education elementary etsy fall floral flowers fresh fun gallery gardening gift gift idea Grand Rapids green happiness health Health/Wellness healthy herbs holiday holiday season home decor home decorations How To ideas inspiration inspiring jars kids activity leaves lesson lessons living lovely Martha Stewart minerals nature orange original original art plants project relaxing rocks rustic showcase simple spotlight succulen succulent sunshine terrarium tips To Do tree unique wellness Workshop

How to Build Your Own Terrarium Tutorial

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date October 30, 2014
2 Comments on How to Build Your Own Terrarium Tutorial

Last week, I visited the absolutely amazing Downtown Market in Grand Rapids, Michigan with some friends for the first time to attend a workshop called How to Build A Terrarium. If you are ever in Grand Rapids, you have to visit the Downtown Market. They have the indoor Market Hall, a “culinary collective” of artisan products including a Bakery, Juice Bar, Coffee Bar, Wine Bar, Meat Market, Bake Shoppe, AND gourmet restaurants including: Fish Lads, Rak Thai, Sushi Maki, Tacos El Cunado AND even a Creperie.

In the summer, they have an Outdoor Market three times a week and in the Fall, every Saturday from 9am to 2pm.

Finally, they also offer a full schedule of classes, programs and workshops which include everything from: yoga, cheese making, Introduction to Aromatherapy & Essential Oils, Cooking Classes, Mommy and Me Activities, to Greenhouse workshops. Click Here to see their schedule of upcoming classes. This is where I went with two of my friends to do the How to Build a Terrarium Workshop. I put together a cheat sheet of the ingredients you will need based on what I learned at the workshop to share with you:

1. First, start by putting about 1 inch layer of gravel at the bottom of your container, to fill up space in the jar and to keep the soil from being to damp.

2. On top of the gravel, put approximately .5in to 1.5in layer of activated charcoal, also to help soak up extra water.

3. Add your cactus/succulent potting soil. The amount of soil you want to use really depends on the size and shape of your container. You want a nice, thick layer so that the soil comes up about to the bottom of your opening.

4. Plant your succulents in the soil. Give them space to breathe.

5. Add your decorative items on the top of the soil after you planted your succulents. This will help weigh the soil down.

Sun Requirements:

* Most succulents need about 6 hours a day of indirect sunlight. Make sure your terrarium is in a cool, well ventilated area.

* It helps to place your terrarium near a south or east facing windows in the winter in order to get maximum sunlight exposure.

* Observe your succulents when they are by windows, as sunlight may be magnified in the glass and can scorch leaves. Adjust accordingly.

Water Requirements:

* In the winter, you may water just once every 2-3 weeks.

* In the summer, it is closer to once a week. Water in the morning.

* If you are unsure, poke your finger in the soil and if it is completely dry then it’s probably a good idea to water it.

And voila! You have a start on a green thumb with a lovely & easy and organic terrarium, all your own. Does anyone have any other tips for making terrariums? If you have one, or make one, I would love to see pictures of them!! succulent

XOXXo

jessie. bo.bessies.

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Tags Cactus, DIY Project, fashion illustration, Gift Idea, Green Thumb, Home Decor, Nature, Succulents, terrarium, Tutorial

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Patched/Color Contrast Denim Jeans (and my new favorite pair of jeans)

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date September 3, 2014
No Comments on Patched/Color Contrast Denim Jeans (and my new favorite pair of jeans)

A few months ago, a woman came into my work work wearing these jeans:

and fell hard for them. (yes, it’s sad, I know). Not since my high school days when I was still able to talk my dad into buying me “cool kid” Diesel jeans (complete with a ridiculous price tag) have I wanted a pair of jeans so badly. Sadly, the jeans, made by Gap were sold out online and in all the stores in my area. Even Ebay didn’t have them.

Disheartened, but not willing to give up, I thought, “No problem, I will make me those jeans! How hard can it be?” (and because it always turns out well when I ask myself that!) I am nothing, if not, naive, idealistic and stubborn. But, as it turns out, it was pretty hard. After several hours consisting of trips to Goodwill and Michaels, cutting, sowing and ironing on the patches, my masterpiece was complete (and looking nothing like the above picture)….

I couldn’t even get the jeans on past my knees. Yeah…they were waaaay to small. As usual, I got caught up in my excitement and didn’t think to TRY THE JEANS ON to make sure they fit beforehand. Needless to say, after that, I gave up on the idea for a while. Figuring it just wasn’t meant to be.

Until the other day while scrolling through Nordstrom online, when I came across these:

Paige Denim ‘Cara’ Paneled Ultra Skinny Jeans ( $135.00.) Although, sold out now on Nordstroms.com, they are available for sale at Anthropolgie.com as well as Saks 5th Ave

BUT, as much as I love buying clothes, I haven’t spent more than $40.00 – $50.00, on any one clothing item for myself in over 10 years and the $135.00 was way out of my price range. I just can’t afford to do it. But, I had some money saved up and in a moment of haste and overcome with “denim lust” (I think the most accurate word for how I felt towards these jeans is “coveted”), I closed my eyes and bought them. I felt sick to my stomach for days after buying them, and ]When they came in the mail, I didn’t open the package for a few days because I was embarrassed of my overspending.

When I finally did try them on, I was absolutely hooked. I fell in love with them. I think I had forgotten what it was like to have a high quality pair of jeans that fit well and feel good. I am not as in shape as I used to be, and my self-confidence is usually always lacking. But the fit, the look, the feel, everything about these jeans felt worth every penny. The cheap jeans I usually always buy, they do the job, but they stretch out easily, or sag in weird parts, or tear, or break quickly. Even the ones that last always look a little “off.” Not these jeans. They fit so well,in all the right places and were so comfortable that I was walking around feeling like a million bucks.

I love everything about these jeans- in the end, the contrasting colors of the jeans that I fell in love with in the first place, were just an added plus.

It’s been years since I have bought myself a clothing item of this price (besides boots or a bag). I was officially out of the game when it came to name brand denim and I had never heard of Paige Denim before but I am definitely sold on this brand and these jeans. And I know this sounds like one big advertisement, but I don’t get a penny to promote any brand on my blog. So, If you have the money to spare, I highly suggest buying yourself a pair of quality jeans- because they will last you for forever, will go with everything, feel great, and look damn good!

I have put together a board of some of my favorite patched/color blocked jeans this season:

Top left: Gap 1969 Patch & Repair Boyfriend Jeans ($84.95), top middle: Current/Elliot Patchwork Fling Jeans ($238.00), top right: Morgan Slim Fit Contrasting Knee Patch Jeans from House of Fraser ($90.00). Bottom left: Paige Denim Skinny “Olga” ankle Colorblock Jeans ($199.00), bottom middle: Joes’ Two-Toned Jeans ($199.00) and bottom right: Urban Renewal Two-Toned Jeans ($59.00)

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To Kimono, or not to kimono?

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date August 7, 2014
No Comments on To Kimono, or not to kimono?

That is the question…

Ever since I first realized that kimonos were coming into style, I was hooked. I love that they each one is so unique and colorful. They are also super comfortable and cozy, and they hide a lot well (and I can braid the fringe when I am bored). But since I turned 30, I have started to question my wardrobe choices seriously for the first time: should I wear leopard print jeans (probably not) should I wear tube tops and short skirts? How about sparkly things (I love some good sequins)? I can only be thankful for friends for being good hearted and not laughing in my face when I show up wearing azctec print, acid wash, holey jeans.

So this summer, while browsing pinterest endlessly for style tips, I started to notice that most women wearing kimonos or shawls were much younger than me. My thoughts were further confirmed when I was in Chicago during the Lollapoolza music festival. Kimonos seemed to be an essential piece of the 20 something’s summer music festival wardrobe, the other essential wardrobe piece: coochie hugging shorts and lots of under butt (Thanks Miley!). Let’s just say I had some serious concern for the reproductive systems of these girls because it can’t be healthy to have your shorts jammed up your hoo-ha all day long! Think about your future ladies. and I realize I am dangerously close to wearing hoo ha shorts in the last picture, but I got tights and boots on and no under booty I promise!)

I don’t say this all this to judge these young girls because heaven knows what I was doing and what I was wearing (mostly musty thrift store finds) when I was in college…I am all for being young and care free, exploring new things, expressing yourself and all those other things that come with the roller coaster ride that is the 20’s; I just have to remember that I am not in my 20’s anymore and maybe I shouldn’t be dressing like a 21 year old and making a fool out of myself.

BUT, all that being said…I like my kimonos and my shawls and won’t stop wearing them…but if I start asking you about molly, then someone needs to have a talk with me!

what do you guys think about kimonos? If anyone has a picture of their favorite kimono, or favorite outfit with a shawl, you can email me at forourcity@gm

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tattoos: i want them, i need them pt. 2

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date February 14, 2012
2 Comments on tattoos: i want them, i need them pt. 2

It’s time for round two of beautiful tattoo designs I have been coveting lately. I swear, if I was in a stable job right now, there would be nothing holding me back Last night, while I literally spent all night long looking at people’s “boards” of tattoos on pinterest and found some beautiful, inspiring and unique tattoos. Sometimes, I fall in love with some tattoos but always in the back of my mind I cant help but think…how will I feel about this having to see this every day for the rest of my life?

Lately, (and I am pretty sure this change has to do with my new found obsession with pinterest), I am finding the most amazing tattoos that I would get in a heart beat. I am being to see a pattern in the types of tattoos I love: simple lines and also brightly colored designs saw a few beautiful colorful tattoos that look like water color paintings.

I LOVE the colors in the above blue flower tattoo. They are so rich and look so real and textured they look. I also love that the colors aren;t hindered by the thick dark outlines and end up looking like a coloring page….if that makes sense at all.

A few of the MANY stunning watercolor tattoos by artist Amanda Wachob. Check her work out at: http://www.amandawachob.com/gallery/skin/. I have never seen anything like these tattoos.

Another example of beautiful colors and distinct blending.

Do I love this tattoo or am I maybe blinded by the beauty and “coolness” of this model.

the tattoos I am most drawn too, can be categorized into two differing types. First: simple and elegant lines and patterns; second: bright and bold colors. This is the one I am leaning towards getting. Something about the simplicity of the lines calms me. While I am more drawn to big and bold colors; something about the simplicity and evenness of the lines calms me. Ever since I was born, I have always had an uncanny knack for creating unnecessary chaos in my life. My parents used to say they could always know where to find me by following a path of discarded and broken items. My husband is always shocked and annoyed at how quickly I can turn a room, or, my life, upside down. I tend to worry about everything and focus on the unimportant little things in life and I think this tattoo would serve as a consistent reminder to simplify my thinking. I don’t know why I think that way, but even just looking at the even circles makes me feel more peaceful.

I also really like this one but I don’t think I would get it on my hand. Mainly because, I don’t think I would be able to get away with it as an elementary teacher.

A couple more……LOVE all OF THESE!

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The Artsy Alternative to the Wedding Guestbook.

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date April 4, 2011
1,126 Comments on The Artsy Alternative to the Wedding Guestbook.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/71379172/custom-made-hand-drawn-fingerprint-tree

I must admit, I “borrowed” this idea for my own wedding from a blog I found.It was love at first sight. As funds were tight, I had to create my own (and okay… being a bit of a control freak).

I was very pleased with how it turned out! I’ve seen fingerprint trees like mine for $200-$300, but was able to create mine at a fraction of the price.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/71379172/custom-made-hand-drawn-fingerprint-tree?ref=pr_shop

All you really need to make this project happen is a large piece of high quality parchment paper (mine was approximately 20″ x 22″), a pencil, a GOOD eraser, ball point pen of your color choice, (watercolor markers are optional if you want your names and your wedding date on the poster), and water based stamp inks that compliment your wedding colors.

Gathering all the materials is really the easy part, as you probably have most of them somewhere in your house…the more difficult part is donating the time and energy to creating a draft, tracing the drawing, outlining in ink pen and so forth…

…I was thinking this would also be a cute idea for other special events like baby showers, bridal showers, graduation parties, anniversaries, and family reunions.

It is a truly unique way to record the presence of your loved ones who are with you during your most important moments in LIFE.

If this craft project has set your heart a flutter but you lack the time to devote to creating the project (time which I had too much of as an unemployed graduate student!), I have started selling a custom, hand drawn, fingerprint tree at my etsy shop for $75.00.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/jessbobess

Almost EVERYTHING on the fingerprint tree can be PERSONALIZED and made custom for your event, including: the paper size, the colors of the ink and dye, the design of the tree, the color of the paper, names (or no names), dates, ect.

You just tell me what you want and I’ll do the rest. I won’t send it until you have seen pictures of the final product and approved of them. I don’t care how many times I have to do it,

you wont get less than perfect!

Also, just for the few of you who might actually read this blog AND be interested in purchasing the fingerprint tree, I’ve created the following coupon code:

“BLOGGERLOVE” for you. Use it and save 15% off your entire purchase.

Here is the link one last time to view the listing at my etsy shop:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/71379172/custom-made-hand-drawn-fingerprint-tree?ref=pr_shop

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Fair Trade Ethiopian Coffee Bean Jewelry.

Post author By Jess Ross Creative
Post date April 3, 2011
1 Comment on Fair Trade Ethiopian Coffee Bean Jewelry.

Ethiopia holds a special place in my heart. I have been blessed to visit three times to work in an orphanage for children with HIV/AIDS and to teach English.

A close family friend, who is the executive director and co-founder of of the Beza International Ministries approached me with these beautiful necklaces made of coffee beans by Ethiopians living with HIV/AIDS.

The Beza Entoto Outreach Program was created by Beza International Ministries as a result of the growing number of people suffering from HIV/AIDS in Entoto, a region in Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia.

The Beza Entoto Outreach Program established a project that would allow individuals living with HIV/AIDS to generate their own income.

Jewelry making was chosen because does not demand expensive equipment and is not arduous. The individuals who make the jewelry are paid a sustainable income and by purchasing a piece of jewelry you are directly helping someone in Ethiopia provide for themselves and for their families.

I pay a fair trade price for each necklace and also donate 30% of each purchased piece

directly to the Beza Entoto Outreach Program.

Please visit my new website if you are interested in purchasing a necklace and to learn more about the jewelry and the beautiful people who make them:

http://www.fairtradecoffeejewelry.com/