Ania Designs

This may come as no surprise.

2009-10-30T16:58:00.000-07:00

I often find myself going through artistic phases: I draw, I sew, I turn old things into new, and sometimes, but more often than not I find myself writing. I have a countless number of journals, four of which I write in consistently (each journal has its very own purpose, of course). The pen to paper is to me romantic, whimsical, meaningful, beautiful and almost forgotten in this era.

I have found myself falling deeper into a love affair with written (even, spoken) expression. To my mom that is no shocker. For as long as I can remember, she’s loved reading my papers in school, the blogs that I now write and everything else that fell in between. For me, I never really noticed how much I loved writing. It is simply a part of who I am. And then I realized it’s a part of who I am. It seems the realization was something I desperately needed.

Admittedly, I am not a very practiced writer, nor do I feel I always have something important to say. There are many times where words are not necessary; the silence, a soft touch or a look might be all the communication that is needed in a moment. However, I have found that there are many, many words that need to be said. There are millions of people every day who do not get to say or write or express what needs to be communicated. Their voices are smothered and silenced. These are the voices of the oppressed. The enslaved. The persecuted. The tortured. The forgotten. I’ve discovered that more important to me than any silk, any beautiful design, any poem is this raging passion to speak for those who do not have the chance.

In order to cultivate this passion (seeing as “cultivate” is the buzzword on this blog) I am headed back to school. This is kind of a hand in hand announcement, I suppose, because this also means I’ll be closing up shop. That’s right, I’m bidding adieu to Ania Designs (and silk, and marketing, and business, and lace…). I have come to realize that when you take time to discover your passion, what truly makes your heart beat, what really sends the blood coursing through your veins, you must take time to cultivate and follow that passion. I daydream about how the world would look if we were deeply honest with ourselves and chased after the passion that made us thrive. I hope you continue to follow my journey on either of the following blogs:

http://onejourneyamongmany.blogspot.com/(This is my personal blog)
http://cultivatedbeauty.wordpress.com/ (This is a collaborative art blog I am a part of)

This time around I'm spreading the love, this same post will be on both blogs in a similar manner, but before and after that, things will be more interesting and diverse. Thanks for joining along with me in what has been, so far, a remarkably fun journey that I will always be thankful for.

Coffee Spells Trouble...

2009-09-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

...but only because it makes me do more than I probably have time for. In a good way, of course. Otherwise I'd have to quit drinking it, and I simply couldn't handle that process emotionally. Um, can anyone say addicted? Yes. I probably have issues. ;)

I sat down with a good friend of mine for a cup of coffee the other day and we got to talking. And then, well, we started this little blog. Go take a read, you'll see our purpose. Eventually we hope this group here in Bend will grow and flourish, busting at the seams with beauty and art.

Cultivated Beauty

While I'm Posting...

2009-08-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I feel like I am playing the biggest game of catch up. EVER. I figure I may as well post while I'm thinking about it.

Once again, Ben Edwards photographed a bit of my work. It's because he is a rad friend, and we tend to know some rad people, and radness just happens. In case you wondered.

Now, I need to put a little disclaimer here, I simply altered Cheryl's beautiful gown...but then we funkified it with some beautiful green silk. I also designed her daughter's dress. It was such a treat to be able to really tie the two in to one another, a great symbol, I believe, of the wonderful mother+daughter relationship they already have.

Take a gander at Ben's blog post here.

She's back!

2009-08-29T15:05:00.001-07:00

Ok, enough is enough. I have not blogged in ages. I had miles of to-do lists at the beginning of summer including, but not limited to: fashion shoots, design work, teaching, marketing, travel plans, weddings, etc... and life knocked me over. Being the somewhat green and environmentally friendly person that I am, I bike to work and around town. I also recycle and compost, but that's beside the point.

In June I was biking to work. And on one fateful morning,

I was hit by an SUV.

That'll stop pretty much anyone in their tracks. Teaching stopped. Work stopped. Sewing stopped. Design stopped. Aspirations were put on hold. The only thing that started was me learning how to properly function again. Frustrating to the max, I will tell you that. Learning how to sit up properly again, retraining every freaking muscle in my body to do what it did before. Ugh, not fun. The good I found in the trial was that luckily everything had been simply knocked out of place or torn, nothing was broken (miraculously).

Over two months later I can finally sit with only localized pain in my back and my knee - which means this girl is gonna be back in front of her sewing machine ASAP. Teaching will resume. Designing will resume. Work will resume. And it is exciting!

I know I have been talking about whether or not I'll keep Ania around for the long haul or not. I'm hitting this silly mid-twenties crisis that's sending me across the world in the next year. But the one thing I know is that I'm really sinking deep into my own identity, finding and strengthening my passions, and trying to share that journey with others along the way. For now, Ania will remain as creative as possible, and give as much as possible with the gifts she has been given. She has been looked on with favor and grace.

I simply have to brag!

2009-06-13T09:46:00.000-07:00

I met Lisa Logan, an amazingly talented couturier, by chance last year. I somehow managed to break the clutch in my sewing machine and had to get it fixed. When I picked it up she happened to be at the store and we got to talking. And then we met for burgers and onion rings to talk. She gave me the gift of time and her expertise regarding my little company, and I'm still so grateful.

Well, today I opened up the newspaper, and lo and behold, there's Lisa right on the front of the community section! Go read it here. She's fabulous, and I simply had to give her a shout out. This article will give you insight as to how complicated her job is, and even more so how talented she is - though you must simply see her work in person sometime. :)

Little things like these make me excited to see what life looks like when I arrive home from Africa, and how business takes shape (whatever that may be). Enjoy your Saturday all!

Africa on the Brain

2009-05-05T18:55:00.000-07:00

My journey to Africa has begun...well, at least the first stages of it anyway! I'm in the process of planning, raising funds and daydreaming constantly. I have a blog going tracking progress and updates. Swing on by, and purchase some coffee after you check it out!

http://onejourneyamongmany.blogspot.com/

Yay Inspiration!

2009-04-19T22:47:00.000-07:00

Seriously, so glad to have gone to Portland this weekend. It was a nice break from the normal routine, as was the reason for the visit: fashion. I'm working a fashion show and a photo shoot for a friend of mine, the lovely Katie Syme, makeup artist extraordinaire. I'm doing 4 garments for this shoot, one fab dress and a few seriously funked out shirts. Below are a few snapshots of textiles we fell in love with. Of course, you'll have to wait and see what they turn out to be sometime around the end of May. It's gonna flippin' rock.

Catching Up

2009-04-17T11:38:00.000-07:00

I'm trying to play a serious game of catch up with life at the moment. I have a super busy summer coming up, and a ton of work to do between now and June. Everything from upcoming fashion shoots to attending the majority of 11 weddings of my friends this summer to trying to cram an hour a day into enjoying the beautiful spring weather Bend has been blessed with the past few days.

A couple of things for you to check out:

The World Relief NEXT team is in Africa, check out their blog, and the blog of Benjamin Edwards for stories and photos that will inspire you.

A new blog I'm starting up about my journey to Africa later this year is up and going. Right, because I need just one more thing on my to-do list. However, it'll be fun and interactive for you. :)

Keep your eyes peeled, I'm going to have some shots of my work for the fashion shoot sometime in June, and I'll try to get some pictures as I begin the creative process. I hope you'll enjoy following that as much as I'm going to love being creative in my own right this time around!

Family Photos for Change

2009-03-17T11:14:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been coordinating a fund raiser for World Relief NEXT. Below are all of the details pertaining to the event. We still have plenty of sessions available, simply call me to book! 541.633.6435

We also wouldn't mind if you emailed, called, and pounded on the front doors of friends, neighbors, co-workers and family to share this awesome opportunity!

FAMILY PORTRAITS FOR CHANGE :: WITH BENJAMIN EDWARDS

Session Dates and Times at Antioch Church Offices in the Old Mill:
- Saturday, March 21 - 8:30AM-6:00PM
- Sunday, March 22 - 1:00PM-6:00PM

Packages available:
- Family Portraits: $125
- Family Portraits and Child Photos: $200

All proceeds support the World Relief NEXT Project trip to the Great Lakes Region of Africa. Funds will cover costs for media development, project education, needs assessment, and on the ground expenses.

Learn more about World Relief NEXT. Sessions will be held with debit or credit card numbers; the fees are 100% tax deductible and non-refundable.

News or no news...hm.

2009-03-06T14:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I don't really have the shocking news I was expecting. We will leave it at that. For now, I am going to cruise through this crazy year and continue to allow you all to catch a glimpse through this blog. I'll continue marketing my company as much as a can with a full time summer job (girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do in this economy). I'll continue trying to figure out God's vision for Ania. And I'll be doing a ton of prep work for Africa. Because I am, in fact, going. (Yay! *jumps for joy*)

Here's a couple of things to keep in mind:

I'll be offering sewing classes in the very near future (6 week courses) in order to raise funds. If you don't have mad button sewing-on skills, then hit me up. It'll be a plus when you realize you can fix that shirt yourself, as well as helping fund a fab cause. I'll also be selling Cauzal Coffee, which the product in and of itself is a very good thing, but it will also help fund my trip. Read more at their site. :)

Thanks for staying tuned, friends! It'll be fun to continue sharing the adventure with you all through 2009.

News to come

2009-03-04T11:02:00.001-08:00

I haven't been neglecting my blog, I promise. However, I've been absolutely burdened with what exactly it is I am supposed to be doing. Having no idea how to communicate to you (my wonderful few readers) I have said as little as possible, waiting for discernment.

Let me give penning this current moment in my life a quick go: The life of somebody that loves God is not always predictable when it comes to what God asks of them. He (if you happen to believe in Him) asks things that often times do not make any lot of sense until a much later date. And even then, that understanding typically comes solely to the person of which God has asked that task.

Do you copy Ghost Rider? Sweet. Because that's exactly where I am at right now. I am sitting still and listening. And in the next 24 hours, I will be moving, whether in the same general direction as I was at the beginning of the year, or in a different direction that I had never imagined. It will be an interesting and shocking post, I am sure, when I begin to write it. Until then, friends, stand by.

Ohh 2009

2009-02-20T10:46:00.000-08:00

Well, it's February 20, 2009. We aren't even past a full 2 months in this year and it has been absolutely nuts. This little company is my baby. If you're self-employed, you know what I mean. My work hours span anywhere from 6am-3am, depending on the day. Constant streams of meetings at local coffee shops. Endless hours of behind-the-scenes structural work for the company. Dates with coffee and my sketch pad every morning. Countless meetings with an incredibly talented Couturiere. Sewing. Patterning. All of the above.

And 6 weeks into all of that, I find that things are not going the way I hoped. Of course, after a few days of reflection and prayer, I find that it is a wonderful turn of events. If you have even glanced at my posts over the last year, you'll know that even though I've thrown my heart and soul into this company, I have a passion beyond words for the afflicted and oppressed in this world. Specifically (but not limited to) Africa.

It looks like my dream of going to Africa is beginning to come true. Things are starting to come together, and I may actually be spending a couple of months in Burundi at the end of this year. I can't wait to start doing an update each month on what is going on in preparation for the trip, and then when it finally happens, updating you from there. I get chills thinking about it.

Now, this doesn't mean I'm abandoning all that I've put into this company. In fact, long term, I see this passion for Africa weaving quite harmoniously with my passion to make beautiful custom wedding gowns. But, until that starts to become more clear, I'll keep my giddy little ideas to myself. I have this silly habit of getting two steps ahead of myself, and this is too precious for me to do that.

In the mean time, we'll be making wedding gowns and accepting clients in 2009, but the latest wedding date we can probably accept is through mid-September at this point. Ask about an exception to the rule before canning your hopes, it may work out anyway. :)

As my year has already proven full of blessings, I hope that for you as well.

Dimaano Photography

2009-02-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

I want to introduce you all to a friend of mine who is an awesome photographer in the Bay Area. He lived in Bend for 4 years, and to my dismay moved back to Cali just a month after I met him. Home is where the heart is, I suppose. :)

Anthony Dimaano captures people, life, and events all around him with the edge of a photojournalist. He tells a pretty sweet story with his art, which I find incredibly rad.

Escape from your day and enjoy some time on his website.

International Day for Zero Tolerance of FGM

2009-02-06T11:11:00.000-08:00

I know this is a super long post, but it's so important! That, and it is my birthday and I'll post what I feel like. :)

If you don't know what Female Genital Mutilation is, I recommend that you Wikipedia it and find out more. My heart breaks over this practice, and this is why today is so important. Read the press release below. Spread the word.
__________________________________

Dear World Relief Next Advocate,

The following is a letter from the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children. Please consider this in prayer today as millions of lives are impacted by the atrocity of FGM.

Whatever we can do to spread awareness, it begins with thoughtful prayer and consideration (LOVE). Go further and dig into the facts and figures surrounding FGM (LEARN). Bring it up in conversation today with a friend; you never know whom you might touch and the effect it will have on the precious life of one (ENGAGE).

Save One Girl from the Knife.

Gratefully,

World Relief NEXT

COMITE INTER-AFRICAIN (CI-AF) SUR LES PRATIQUES TRADIONNELLES
ayant effet sur la santé des femmes et des enfants

Ref: IAC/February 6. /01.09
Date: January 28, 2009
Press Release for Friday February 6, 2009

From: The Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children (IAC)

Headquarters: ECA, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

To observe February 6, 2009 as the International day on Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices (IAC) with her Affiliates and Partners across the world calls on Governments, Parliamentarians, UN Agencies, NGOs, donor community, Religious leaders, Community leaders, Youth, communities and members of the Press to make a greater commitment to ensure the elimination of FGM.

The theme for this year's observation is “Political will at the Center of Achieving
Zero Tolerance to FGM".

The objective of observing February 6 is to draw the attention, at the international and national levels to efforts that need to be exerted to free women and girls from female genital mutilation and to accelerate action towards its elimination by the set target date of 2010 according to the Common Agenda for Action or by 2015 being the target of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

Why focus on FGM?
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is Violence against Women. It is a violation of the human rights' principles, as stipulated in Article 24.3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), other International and Regional instruments and the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People's Rights Relating to the Rights of Women, (Article 5). The Millennium Development Goals advocate for the promotion of Gender Equality and Empowerment of women, reduction of child mortality and improvement of maternal health.

Female Genital Mutilation refers to any practice that involves the partial or total removal or alteration of the external female genital organs for non-medical reasons.

By a conservative estimate, about 2 million women and girls are subjected to FGM worldwide with devastating consequences. Studies have shown a correlation between FGM and the high infant and maternal mortality and morbidity in African countries where FGM is prevalent. There is also clinical evidence that FGM presents a serious risk in the transmission of HIV/AIDS, especially among societies who practice it as an initiation rite using the same instruments on many girls at the same time.

February 6 was unanimously adopted at the International Conference on Zero Tolerance to FGM organized by IAC from February 4 to 6 2003 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Representatives at the Conference came from 49 countries including 4 First Ladies (from Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Guinea Conakry and Mali), Ministers, and Parliamentarians. Others included Religious, Community and Youth leaders.

IAC National Committees in 28 African countries, its Affiliates and Partners in Austria, Belgium, Canada, England, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands and USA will mark February 6, 2009.

Some of the activities being organized by IAC include press conference, press interview, theatre show and songs by a school club in Addis Ababa Headquarters of IAC, panel discussions in Addis Ababa and in Geneva Liaison office highlighting FGM as a tradition that should be eliminated being a violation of the human rights of women and girls.

Specifically, the panelist will address the following areas among others:

-Building national frameworks to end FGM
-Enforcing change: the role of governments, political leaders in the campaign against FGM
-Implementation of international and national legal instruments relating to FGM

IAC success stories abound in communities in many African countries where its National Committees carry out interventions. There are cases where whole villages, denounce and ban FGM following community mobilization strategy. Egypt, Ethiopia and Ghana are a few examples.

By the events outlined around the world, for February 6, 2009, IAC and her partners are drawing global, national and community attention to the provisions in the Protocol to the African Charter on Human and People's Rights on the Rights of women (Maputo Protocol Article 5) and other UN Conventions which support the promotion of the Human Rights of women and children and the elimination of FGM.

February 6 as the international day on Zero Tolerance to FGM has come to stay and it would be a reminder to governments for their commitments towards accelerating actions to eliminate the menace.

Berhane Ras-Work
Executive Director, IAC
INTER-AFRICAN COMMITTEE
COMITE INTER-AFRICAIN

A Couple of Videos

2009-02-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

No, these aren't for your entertainment. These are for your education. I posted on my personal blog the other day a little more information about the Democratic Republic of Congo. If you want it all, I'll send it to you, along with a bunch of resources and ways you can get involved. It's hard to swallow, it really is.

Over the past couple of weeks I've been learning about Internally Displaced Persons in DRC. However, there are over 52 million displaced around the world. It is a huge issue, one which needs more attention and devotion from people all over the world.

These videos are about the crisis in DRC. Hopefully this gives you a glimpse of the problem occurring around the world today. Click the links below (I couldn't manage to get them to upload directly to this page).

Video #1 this is posted by Condition: Critical which is a website devoted to the crisis in DRC and what Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF, or Doctors without Borders) are doing to help in the area.

Video #2 this is by UNICEF. "Not by Bombs and Bullets: Behind the DRC conflict". (I would post direct from UNICEF, but I couldn't get their videos working from their website.)

Video #3 is posted by Media Storm.

Part of me does not want to warn you that these videos may have some graphic content. But they do. Please watch them. Learn something. Think about something difficult for a few minutes of your day. Let it sink into your bones so deep that you must do something to help.

Here are a list of links, ways to get involved (simple ways! Like purchasing clothes, goods, photography and more) and further your awareness about global issues:

http://www.womenforwomen.org
http://www.worldreliefnext.org
http://www.cauzal.com
http://www.greatlakesoutreach.org
http://www.thekilns.com
http://www.ethniphotography.com
http://www.riseupinternational.com
http://www.ransomwear.org
http://www.krochetkids.org
http://www.amaniafrica.org
http://www.bloodwatermission.com

Ethni Photography

2009-01-30T11:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the first day in over a week that I started feeling like a human again. I've been sick, so many apologies for the lack in posting! And, in feeling better, I had the opportunity to escape the house and the office and head over to see Jane - the lovely owner of Ethni Photography.

I've known her for almost 4 years now, and just before Ania came about, Ethni was beginning. I take that back. I'm positive God had begun to weave Jane's vision for her company together for years prior to today. 25% of the proceeds from all of the shoots go to a missions organization of your choice. And that is something that rocks my world, as you've probably picked up on with the other organizations and people I blabber about on a consistent basis.

Jane does everything: weddings, seniors, portraits, and babies! I'm in a baby mood today, get used to it :) Go check out her newly remodeled website and her beautiful work. You'll get lost for at least an hour in there. Enjoy!

Gorgeous, gorgeous

2009-01-27T17:05:00.001-08:00

I'm absolutely in love with this jewelry by BridalEmunique. Click on the photo above to visit their online shop through Etsy. Grab a napkin, you'll need to wipe up your drool :)

A Letter from Zimbabwe

2009-01-22T12:32:00.000-08:00

We are finally starting to get awareness out about Congo, but the truth is, there are multiple crises going on around the world, and so many still in Africa. I received this letter yesterday from a friend of mine. Let's do our best to create awareness, because without it we can do nothing.

I reckon that these are the last days of TKM and ZPF. The darkest hour is always before dawn.

We are all terrified at what they are going to destroy next........I mean they are actually ploughing down brick and mortar houses and one family with twin boys of 10 had no chance of salvaging anything when 100 riot police came in with AK47's and bulldozers and demolished their beautiful house - 5 bedrooms and pine ceilings - because it was 'too close to the airport', so we are feeling extremely insecure right now.

You know - I am aware that this does not help you sleep at night, but if you do not know - how can you help? Even if you put us in your own mental ring of light and send your guardian angels to be with us - that is a help -but I feel so cut off from you all knowing I cannot tell you what's going on here simply because you will feel uncomfortable. There is no ways we can leave here so that is not an option.

I ask that you all pray for us in the way that you know how, and let me know that you are thinking of us and sending out positive vibes... that's all. You can't just be in denial and pretend/believe it's not going on.

To be frank with you, it's genocide in the making and if you do not believe me, read the Genocide Report by Amnesty International which says we are - IN level 7 - (level 8 is after it's happened and everyone is in denial). If you don't want me to tell you these things-how bad it is-then it means you have not dealt with your own fear, but it does not help me to think you are turning \your back on our situation. We need you, please, to get the news OUT that we are all in a fearfully dangerous situation here. Too many people turn their backs and say - oh well, that's what happens in Africa

This Government has GONE MAD and you need to help us publicize our plight---or how can we be rescued? It's a reality! The petrol queues are a reality, the pall of smoke all around our city is a reality, the thousands of homeless people sleeping outside in 0 Celsius with no food, water, shelter and bedding are a reality. Today a family approached me, brother of the gardener's wife with two small children. Their home was trashed and they will have to sleep outside. We already support 8 adult people and a child on this property, and electricity is going up next month by 250% as is water.

How can I take on another family of 4 -----and yet how can I turn them away to sleep out in the open? I am not asking you for money or a ticket out of here - I am asking you to FACE the fact that we are in deep and terrible danger and want you please to pass on our news and pictures. So PLEASE don't just press the delete button! Help best in the way that you know how.

Do face the reality of what is going on here and help us SEND OUT THE WORD.. The more people who know about it, the more chance we have of the United Nations coming to our aid. Please don't ignore or deny what's happening. Some would like to be protected from the truth BUT then, if we are eliminated, how would you feel? 'If only we knew how bad it really was we could have helped in some way'.

[I know we chose to stay here and that some feel we deserve what's coming to us] For now,--- we ourselves have food, shelter, a little fuel and a bit of money for the next meal - but what is going to happen next? Will they start on our houses? All property is going to belong to the State now. I want to send out my Title Deeds to one of you because if they get a hold of those, I can't fight for my rights.

Censorship!----We no longer have SW radio [which told us everything that was happening] because the Government jammed it out of existence - we don't have any reporters, and no one is allowed to photograph. If we had reporters here, they would have an absolute field day. Even the pro-Government Herald has written that people are shocked, stunned, bewildered and blown mindless by the wanton destruction of many folks homes, which are supposed to be 'illegal' but for which a huge percentage actually do have licenses.

Please! - do have some compassion and HELP by sending out the articles and personal reports so that something can/may be done.

'I am one. I cannot do everything, ---but I can do something.. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do. What I can do, I should do. And what I should do, by the grace of God, I will do.' -Edward Everett Hale

The Answers to my "Betcha" Post

2009-01-19T10:30:00.000-08:00

Without any further adieu, here are the answers to my post regarding Style Me Pretty's post about stylish wedding gowns from 2008. I think if you know me well enough, or if you've seen any number of my fashion sketches, you'll have picked these out pretty easily.

1. Top choice, this caught my eye so quick, yet held my attention for quite some time. Though that's not hard to do with this one! Row 2, the gown on the right. I really enjoyed the different forms of fabric manipulation and the geometric detail, both in the bodice, and at the lower half of the skirt. Totally unique and lovely.

2. Second choice: Rows 10/11. It only took me a moment to imagine how absolutely lovely she must have felt wearing this gown! What did it was seeing the top right hand photo of somebody holding up her train. How elegant to wear layers of chiffon, so soft and feminine. Not forgetting the beautiful detail on the bodice paired with the timeless covered buttons. Loved it.

3. Let's face it, you now see the pattern. I have a love for geometric-inspired design. My third choice is from row 13. I adore this! Tell me you have seen something identical to this and I'll call you a liar (ok, unless you were at that wedding or you yourself designed this gown). The pairing of the very feminine beading and the crisp folds of silk are a wonderful contrast.

The one thing I wish could be done: finding out who the designers were! I'm sure had I been keeping up with trends in wedding gowns while I was tending to a career in mortgages for a few years, I would probably know. But I'm just now getting back in the game - so forgive my lack of knowledge. :)

I hope that was fun for you to see some of my own personal style. I'll try to do more of this in the future, as I really had a good time. I love gawking at beautiful things...and shiny things...they don't call it "Attention Deficit...ohhh SHINY!" for nothing!

Sweet blog post + I Betcha

2009-01-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Here's the scoop: Style Me Pretty just posted a sweet set of photos highlighting wedding gowns from 2008. As we all know, this is the time of year that most brides begin looking for their gowns for their upcoming weddings. I know this full well, I have a handful of clients I am beginning to meet with this month to discuss their gowns. It's a thrilling time of year!

My "Betcha" is this: I betcha can't guess my top three gowns out of the smorgasbord of photos this post contains. If you guess them...well...I'll buy you a latte. I'll post later which ones I chose and why. It's a fun game, right? Thought so. :)

To view this post, click here.

Congo Learning Group

2009-01-12T18:09:00.000-08:00

It's a little bit of late notice to be announcing this, but oh well. Better late than never!

There's a learning group going on for the next 6 Monday nights starting tonight about the Democratic Republic of Congo. Anybody can come, and it's free. It will be a good opportunity to have your eyes opened about this crisis situation, as well as give you the information you need to continue creating awareness in your sphere of influence.

It is held at 6:30PM at the Kilns Bookstore and Boutique. Directions are on their website. I hope to see you there.

Crate & Barrel

2009-01-08T16:46:00.000-08:00

I love that friends often email me wedding-related media and fun finds. It's like having extra sets of eyes all over the place gathering info for you. I'm only one person and I can only do so much research without wasting every minute of my day. Believe me, I could. I usually spend the first hour or two of each day with my coffee, the internet and any number of books and magazines.

On that note, I just found out that Crate & Barrel has a wedding guide. From what I can tell, they began publishing in 2008. They must have done something right, because here it is again!

I'm going to order it soon, so I will be posting about it again to tell you what I think of it. Of course, as a die hard fan of Crate & Barrel, I'm sure that I will love it.

An Interesting Article

2009-01-07T16:04:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine posted this article that was written for the Times Online, and it was very interesting! It will only take a moment of your time, so I thought I would share.

Click here.

New Favorite Wedding Blog!

2009-01-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

By some miracle I happened across this blog, and it has become my favorite place to visit each day! If you're getting married or even helping a friend plan a wedding...you need to see this. So many beautiful and fun ideas that I can hardly believe it!

Style Me Pretty

On another note, I promise that things will be back up and running this week. I have been on a mini-vacation the past couple of weeks visiting friends, family, and flying all the way to Ohio for a wedding. My best wishes to all for a wonderful new year!

World Relief Next

2008-12-19T13:08:00.000-08:00

Watch.

This.

Video.

Then visit the website for the recently launched World Relief Next Project, a division of World Relief.

Great Lakes Outreach

2008-12-16T08:56:00.000-08:00

The same conversation has been surfacing for the past 8 months or so:

What do you suggest your brides do with their wedding gowns after the big day?

And up until a few days ago, I had no idea what to tell them. I can recommend where they can go to have it cleaned and preserved, but that was about the extent of it.

Until I found the website for the Great Lakes Outreach organization I talked about in the previous post. Under their "Get Involved" section, at the bottom they are asking for donated wedding gowns! I couldn't believe my eyes.

I understand that many women would like to keep their gowns for their daughters or granddaughters, this is completely acceptable! I may even do the same some day (though I wonder if my kids and grand kids would someday want a GOR-TEX gown and also get married in the snow??).

At any rate, I have a lot of women who don't know just what to do with their gowns. I think this is a fabulous opportunity! I'll definitely be spreading the word about this sweet concept. I've recently contacted GLO, and I'm waiting for them to get back to me. I can't wait to tell you what they say!

Burundi

2008-12-12T08:32:00.000-08:00

Know where that is? That's ok. It's a pretty small place. But now I want you to learn a little bit about it and why it's important.

Burundi is ravaged by many crises. A civil unrest between tribes, genocide, HIV/AIDS, a lack of clean water, and the fact that it's one of the 10 poorest nations in the world are among the issues they face daily.

I listened to a man named Emmanuel Ndikumana speak both last night and Sunday. He told stories of his country and the history there, and the story of his life. He is a pastor, a leader, a husband, a father, and one seeking to create reconciliation for the country. Because as he sees it, reconciliation in the mind needs to happen for individuals before hope and material solutions will ever work. I wish you could have been there. (I'm trying to find out if it was recorded and will be podcasted. If so, I'll post it here.)

There was a question and answer time at the end of the evening. A woman asked, "How does the current economic crisis affect Burundi?"

His answer struck me so hard I started to cry instantly.

"Theoretically, because we are the third poorest nation in the world, we would be affected the least. Because we have nothing. In practice, because we rely so heavily on foreign aid, that aid will drop because nobody will be able to give. And if they do not give, we will die."

Can you imagine with me for a moment, a country chock full of 8 million people literally ceasing to exist because of this economic crisis? That's an equivalent to the population of New York City.

They need assistance. Never before did you think about the fact that your hardships and your decisions during those hardships could affect somebody so far away, did you? Neither did I.

We have an opportunity. Giving is hard during this time, believe me, I know. If you want to give, here is some info.

Partners Trust International is a part of the Great Lakes Outreach organization. Here is a page with ways to get involved. And they are SIMPLE ways! Click here to find out more. You can always give through The Kilns as well.

My happy corner

2008-12-11T09:35:00.000-08:00

"There was one question which I never dreamed of raising. I never noticed that the very strength and facility of the pessimists' case at once poses us a problem. If the universe is so bad, or even half so bad, how on earth did human beings ever come to attribute it to the activity of a wise and good Creator? Men are fools, perhaps; but hardly so foolish as that."

-C.S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain (Chapter 1, page 3, 2nd paragraph, emphasis mine)

Oh yes, I do remember saying I would post pictures of my corner devoted to human rights. I still have articles and photos to put up. I've been adding a little bit at a time to keep these issues at the front of my mind. To continually be reminded of why I'm working so hard on my company. To allow my heart to be broken, and remind myself how blessed I am, that my gifts are to be put towards good work in this world. (Framed photo by Benjamin Images)

It's sometimes hard to think about these things, honestly. But I have to continually remind myself that God is sovereign. Helping me out a lot with that right now is reading The Problem of Pain by C.S. Lewis. He has some amazing insight into the question of, "How could a loving God and benevolent Creator allow evil in the world?"

All of the little fuchsia cards have a different issue on them with the definition:

And of course, each of those brown cards with the gold writing on them are scripture from the bible. Reminders of the call on my life, as well as God's promises:

Welcome to another little piece of my world and my heart.

Clutch

2008-12-10T11:25:00.001-08:00

I embarked on an adventure yesterday afternoon with my hairstylist after having my hair done. The hair turned out awesome. So far, after almost two years of cuts and colors, we think this blond is the closest to my natural color. But not quite. Anyway, she added some awesome color pockets using a rich mahogany. I love it :)

All that said, we went to this little store Clutch in downtown Bend. (All of 4 blocks of downtown, as my friend Michael points out.) The store itself was fantastic. I'd spend every penny there, I think, because the purses and the fantastic array of clutches made my mouth water. You should check it out sometime, it's right on Minnesota Avenue a couple of doors down from Trivia Antiques.

If you're ever wondering where to shop for me...this is it. ;)

A. Querio Photo + Design

2008-12-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

Check this out:

My buddy Tony has launched his new website. He's a photographer and graphic designer here in Bend and his work is AWESOME.

Take a peek. You'll be sorry if you don't :)

Do Something.

2008-11-25T10:36:00.000-08:00

Does your heart break as much as mine when you read an article like this one? Does the staggering reality shatter your heart to pieces?

There's always something you can do. Always. Purchase coffee the right way. Purchase clothing and goods that go above and beyond paying the laborer fairly.

My recent joy is found in a relatively new company to Central Oregon, Cauzal Coffee, founded by Don Jacobson. Check them out. Read their blog (updated by Dan Brose of World Relief). Then buy their coffee. Support a "Cauze" that stirs you.

Every little bit matters.

The Ania Experience

2008-11-24T10:42:00.001-08:00

When a bride walks through my door (or the door of a wine shop, or coffee shop...wherever we happen to meet), it's a big deal. A big deal for me, yes, but a big deal to her. She's trusting me with the single most important garment she will wear in her lifetime. That to me, is a huge privilege. In turn, she gets the best treatment I can possibly drum up. An experience she'll never forget. She'll feel like a queen, as she should.

The process is void of any pressure on her part, and full of relaxation and special touches just for her. It's an individual experience. That's what I love about it. One bride will not experience things exactly the same way as the next. It is not just a custom gown, but a custom experience.

On a somewhat related note, I am doing a little bit of peer feedback work with a friend, Jeff Marcoux, who is a business consultant up in Seattle. He's a natural at constructive criticism, which may sound a bit negative, but it's most definitely not, and it's rare to find somebody with honesty like his. Anyway, getting constructive criticism is something I like to subject myself to quite frequently to better my business. After a bit of chatting back and forth this past week, he says:

"I got excited about the Ania Experience and I'm a guy!!!"

I laughed out loud. :)

"The Unsearched Soul"

2008-11-18T13:08:00.000-08:00

Lost, downtrodden, empty
She aches
Forgotten, oppressed, confused
She agonizes

Forgiveness she's never known
Embittered, her heart
She stands tall, shaking
Facing evil, staring at death

The eyes of her enemy show no mercy

The unsearched soul begs comfort,
Petitions justice,
Pleads healing,
Implores saving

Afflicted, abused, unknown
She cries
Alone, sobbing, lacking
She longs

The unsearched soul
Feels a breeze
Catches a glimpse
Hope that shines
Healing that cleans
Love that fills
The greatest void

Firm she stands
Truth she holds
Love she exudes
Forgiveness she extends.

My heart continually breaks for women all over the world. Particularly in Africa. Particularly those subjected to FGM. But injustice and violence against the human race in general sends me into tears.

I wish more people understood the magnitude at which these things happen daily. I think we tend to close our eyes and drown out sadness, because we feel like we have enough of our own problems, let alone thinking about somebody else's. I think this train of thought needs to stop. I think we need to quit being selfish. To see life with better perspective.

I see an opportunity to help create awareness through my company. Through whatever means I can find. To offer hope. To offer change. To show mercy. Hopefully each and every thing that I do serves toward that purpose.

Amazing Weekend

2008-11-18T09:02:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm going to post TWICE today. I can't help myself :)

Of course, first things first, I must tell you about my weekend. I had so much fun!! Once you get to know me, you'll begin to understand that I thrive on pressure and deadlines. All of my careers up to this point have reflected that. Ben Edwards called me about a week before the Tower had their big event last weekend, that much you know.

My insane story is this. The model I originally made this gown to fit wasn't able to do the shoot. So, I called a good friend Megan to stand in. My only problem, was that Megan was a bit too small for the dress. I'm talking two entire sizes too small. So Friday night before the show, I took the entire thing apart, cut it to size, and put it back together. I am thankful I got a nap that morning before the shoot!

It turned out fabulous.

We had a ton of fun. I also met some fun new friends at the show, Sara and Kerry from Mint Event Coordination and Design. They were super sweet, and they can really keep it together. And thanks to all of the amazing men modeling tuxes from Roberts on Wall Street! You saved my butt that morning. :)

So much fun, I'm totally looking forward to the next time I get to be in the same room as all of these amazing people. You rock!

Rockin' Out

2008-11-12T09:51:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, November 16, the Kilns is hosting another concert. Two stellar dudes from SoCal are coming to grace us with some awesome tunes: Cory Joseph and Mike Vitale!

Join us at 55 NW Inustrial Way #55 in Bend, at 7pm. It's $5 at the door.

www.coryjoseph.com
www.myspace.com/mikevitale

Tower Theatre : The Tower as You've Never Seen It

2008-11-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

Exciting news friends - the Tower Theatre is doing weddings! Well, I think it's pretty cool. Talk about a fabulous place to have a wedding, and some pretty fantastic photos when the day is said and done.

I know, I yabber a lot about Ben Edwards, but I'm gonna do it again. Ben is going to be at the expo this weekend, and he will be shooting one of my gowns. So stop on by and take a peek if you get a chance. All of the info is available at the link below.

http://towertheatre.org/wedding/
www.benjaminimages.com

Remembering

2008-11-07T10:25:00.001-08:00

Lately I've been incredibly busy. I'm not talking working my 40 hours and having my evenings filled with fabulous friends and social events. I'm talking, working 50 hours a week at two jobs, plus running my business for another 30 hours of my week. And if I'm lucky, a cup of coffee at 6am with a friend.

I got so busy, that for a few days there, I was a robot. OK, most of October I was a robot. You called it. I looked forward to the hours I could put toward Ania each day, and that was about all that kept me going. But in the midst of everything, I began losing sight of my goals.

Sure, I want to give my brides the absolute service, and the most beautiful dress they could imagine. That's never wavered. But I was beginning to forget the mission of my heart - to offer a hand to those who are forgotten, oppressed, unloved. To show mercy.

I've started a little corner in my office to remind myself of the blessings I have, to remind myself to pass blessings on to others. Pictures. Maps. News articles. I'll have to remember to take a photo and post it here.

He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

Note to self

2008-10-22T11:05:00.000-07:00

We are human. We are in pain. Our hearts are broken by stories like this one:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/africa/10/15/congo.women/index.html

So what can we do about it?

The question that will always be turning in my mind. Always. What can my hands do with the gifts I have been given to help the life of another?

A little red dress

2008-10-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

Ah, finally! Though you may think I forgot to post a picture of the cute little number I made for my sissy's wedding, alas I did not. Things tend to swim in my mind until they get done. I was a lady in red (silk) all day. It was fantastic :)

SoCal here I come?

2008-10-07T22:38:00.000-07:00

Turns out that lately the majority of my clientele stretches from LA and further south. This makes me do two things:

1. Freak out. This is so cool.
2. Freak out. I will probably need to open a second location one of these days.

In the mean time, I'll have the joy of traveling to LA this December to not only meet clients, but see some friends as well.

I love my job.

PS...I designed some pretty stellar stuff this evening...I'll try to remember to snap some photos of the renderings and put them up.

CNN News Story

2008-09-18T16:19:00.000-07:00

I saw this story on CNN about human trafficking and had to post it. The passion of this woman is inspiring.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/americas/09/17/stolen.lives/index.html

Paul Wright

2008-09-03T19:57:00.001-07:00

Come to The Kilns College kick-off event this coming Sunday at 6pm. Paul Wright will be playing two, that's right, we lucky dogs get two sets by this guy. It's gonna be a blast. No cover charge and a great time. The address is 550 NW Industrial Way #44, Bend, OR. Hope to see you there!

Info on the Kilns College: http://www.kilnscollege.com/
More info on the Kilns Bookstore: http://www.thekilns.com/

Keep on checkin' in

2008-09-02T21:41:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, to be sure. My sister got hitched just this past Sunday. It was a beautiful day and most definitely a reason to celebrate. It also took up a lot of my time, basically she was a little more important to me than this blog. (I'll post pics soon, I made myself a pretty stellar dress for this event!)

Not only has a wedding happened, but I have been trying to knock on different doors, check into different opportunities lately. No, I don't mean by looking for a job (though a part time one will be a must these next few months), I mean more along the lines of how can I help those in the world with my skills. God hasn't exactly opened any of those doors. Thus my conclusion being that God wants me here in Bend, doing what I do best. Running a business and making wedding gowns. Love it :)

I have a new client that is getting married here in October, and we have designed her dress. It's gonna be gorgeous on her. I'll post photos when it's all said and done.

That's it for now. Keep checking back, I really am alive and kicking!

For the Women of Sudan

2008-08-10T23:00:00.000-07:00

Would you like to help encourage economic sustainability for Sudanese women and have a beautiful handmade product?

Lauren met a gentleman in Uganda two years ago. Robert, who is a father, husband, and pastor often risks his life as he drives North from Uganda into the Sudan. Robert shares weekly with Lauren via email about the difficult travels he endures to try and bring aid and pastoral care to the hurting people, specifically women and children, of Sudan.

In an effort to provide funds to aid the women, Robert brought back with him to Uganda handmade necklaces to sell from Sudanese villages, returning the profit to the women. Robert realized that a greater profit might be made if the necklaces were sold in the United States.

Lauren agreed to help. A few weeks later our mailbox was filled with an enormous paper package, covered in stamps and scented with the aroma of Uganda. The necklaces have sold very well. Lauren has transferred nearly two thousand dollars back to Robert, who in turn risks his life to deliver the funds to the women of southern Sudan. The attached picture is of the women with food they have purchased from profits of necklaces that were sold.

This coming Tuesday the 12th, from 4pm-8pm, Lauren will be selling a new shipment of necklaces from our home in Bend. All proceeds will be deposited the next day and transferred to Robert before he leaves this coming Friday for the Sudan.

Directions:http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&geocode=&q=175+SE+Roosevelt+Ave,+Bend,+OR+97702&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.789564,61.171875&ie=UTF8&z=17&iwloc=addrPlease call Lauren at 330.1928 if you have any further questions. You can make a difference.

Blessings to you,

Benjamin and Lauren Edwards

A picture is worth...

2008-07-27T17:12:00.000-07:00

...a thousand words...a new thought...opening eyes...stirring hearts...a calling.

Benjamin and Lauren Edwards are photographers, God-lovers, parents, friends, you name it. They're a source of inspiration to me for the love they have for God. You'll see them tonight if you attend the event I posted last. They capture photos, moments, glimpses of the soul, glimpses of God in a way I haven't seen anybody do. Ever.

They do amazing work here in the states with weddings, quite gifted I'll say (ohhh they'll razz me about posting so much about them...I look forward to it). But not only are they amazing wedding photographers, they have captured bits and pieces of Africa and brought them home to us so that we may know and be encouraged, and have our eyes opened to what's happening around God's whole Kingdom. In hopes that it inspires us to live for God, not just for ourselves.

Check out their blog:

http://benjaminimages.typepad.com/edwards_photography/

And their website:

www.benjaminimages.com

Cutting the Star Flowers

2008-07-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

I want to invite you to a night of insight into one of the most culturally binding issues of our time, female genital mutilation.

Join Benjamin Edwards (photographer) and Elizabeth Fischer (video producer) as they share stories, pictures and a REACH documentary on the agonizing truth behind FGM, what the people of Uganda are doing to stop it, and what God is asking us to do to help rid our cultures of this practice.

When: July 27, 7:00PM
Where: The Kilns, 550 NW Industrial Way #44, Bend, OR
Why: Because each one of us can be part of the solution

Do you believe we all deserve rights? Do you have and fight for your rights? Then come help those who do not have rights, let alone the help or encouragement to fight for them.

My "Baby" Broke

2008-07-15T23:16:00.000-07:00

*Sigh* I'm at a standstill with my creative side. At least when it comes to using my sewing machine.

I think I have been working my sewing machine a bit hard lately, what with my own fun in sewing, with some sewing jobs, and with work in general. What a surprise. Sadly, my wonderful machine has been slipping lately, not having the strength to make even a few stitches in a garment. Thus, I'm sending her in. My beautiful European, almost vintage machine is going to the shop. Hopefully to be repaired and in fine condition upon her return.

I thought I would share my temporary heart break. However, the plus side is I've been able to focus on my finishing techniques and my hand stitching. So, even through the tragedy, some good has come of it. :)

Yay for non-profits

2008-07-05T17:45:00.000-07:00

Check out the newest thing in Bend:

http://www.bendbulletin.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080705/NEWS0107/807050311/1041&nav_category=

It's a pretty sweet bookstore called The Kilns and it exists for a stinking awesome cause. This article explains it all.

Time

2008-06-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

Time is something I was prompted to consider at a pretty early age. I am pretty sure I was 15, almost 16, sitting in geography of all classes. Mr. Perry was my teacher.

The first thing of the entire year he asked us was, "How do you spend your time? Like a currency? Is it worth something to you?" He went on to talk about how we need to be careful in spending our time. Prioritizing. It's funny how I didn't really think much of it, just did my thing, finished all of my homework on time, and hung out with friends and family. I didn't really think about how I was spending it.

However, now I think about it, and the man was brilliant. Practices that I work hard at now revolve much around that first 30 minutes of my geography class sophomore year. Blocking out my time, prioritizing my tasks, all of which I am not perfect at, but now understand the importance of.

I look at the year ahead, the dresses that I will be making, and the other work to be done when running a business, and I am glad to have had words of wisdom that came back at just the right time.

Pluggin' away

2008-06-16T12:03:00.000-07:00

Just a little shout out to ProQ Solutions (www.proqsolutions.com). They're chipping away at my website right now, and it's rockin. It'll be up sometime this year, I say that only because they're waiting on me to get them all the content. For now, visit the pilot page to get a taste of what's to come!

www.aniaexperience.com

Meet Katie

2008-06-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

Meet Katie. This is my new model. The dress I am making is purely for portfolio reasosns. It is going to take some time, because let's face it, I'm still in the beginning phases of my company and funds are tight. Silk is mildly expensive. So keep checking back to see the progress as the dress slowly comes together.

Here, ruin your life.

2008-06-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

http://humanrights.antiochchurch.org/?page_id=2

It won't be hard for this information to crumble you, make you feel helpless and small, wonder why there is suffering, question joy, question God. Is God sovereign? (Read Habakkuk)

But it's worth it. It's not making a huge impact that matters.

It's about your heart and the little things you can do to help others in this world.

2008-06-12T10:32:00.000-07:00

She dresses herself with strength
and makes her arms strong.
She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
Her lamp does not go out at night.
She puts her hands to the distaff,
and her hands hold the spindle.
She opens her hand to the poor
and reaches out her hands to the needy. - Proverbs 31:17-20

God has used this passage recently to light a fire in my heart, fuel some long lost dreams of mine. My dreams of making wedding gowns. But that's not all there is to it. Recently God gave me dreams of helping others. Because I don't exist for my own satisfaction, I have realized, I exist to help others, love others, to serve and give of myself and use the talents God has generously poured out on me.

So here she is: a woman in her 20s with a small company that makes couture wedding gowns and provides an unforgettable experience. All so that she can seek out God's heart - a higher calling to help those in need, to help bind up the broken hearted, provide for those in need, free the captives.

Indecisive

2008-06-11T21:40:00.000-07:00

About most things in life I can make a pretty solid and quick decision. However, when it comes to this blog, I am not sure how I want to focus it. I'm sure you'll start to see a little more business in here than just where my heart is at. Because without the business, I wouldn't be able to help people. So you'll get a little taste of both.

Hand-made

2008-05-31T15:13:00.000-07:00

I saw a good friend's wedding gown for the first time the other day (she married her husband a while before I met this couple). I heard the story of the adventure just to go purchase the gown in NYC. It was hand-made by a woman who moved to NY from Italy and opened her own boutique. I could have held it and looked at it for hours. Not that it was so intricate it would take that long just to see every detail, but that I could have gazed at it, appreciated each seam, each hem, each finishing technique the woman used to create the gown.

More and more I'm loving hand-made garments (or accessories), of any kind, really. I love it when I see a friend who's made a new shirt, or created a great piece of jewelry. I'm not saying I've never appreciated these things, that couldn't possibly be the case. I just love the creativity and where the thought must have come from for that creation. I think as I get older, it's just a deeper appreciation for life itself.

Textiles as Art

2008-05-18T15:38:00.001-07:00

Maybe it's just me, but lately I have run into people who don't really get that textiles are art. Or, they believe textiles just aren't as artistic as, say, a painting or pottery.

Now, I understand first that not all people are artistic at the heart. I also understand that not all artists use the same media, this is obvious. When a painter sees a blank canvas, I'm pretty sure they have a vivid picture in their mind as to what belongs on it, and what message they long to convey. When a potter throws pot, they begin to shape and form sometimes before they even know what they're shaping it into. That's pretty sweet.

It's the same concept with me when I see an extraordinary bolt of fabric. Different lines, seams, patterns begin running through my mind until something clicks. Ask anybody who has been shopping with me if I touch, weigh, and sometimes even smell every piece of clothing or yard of fabric that I consider. Yes, it may be slightly funny at times, but it's where my art begins.

Fashion for Good

2008-05-13T11:09:00.000-07:00

Rise Up is an organization that never ceases to amaze me. On the entrance to their website (http://www.riseupinternational.com/) it asks, "Can Fashion Fight Poverty?" They've proven that it sure can. Check out their cause, what they've been able to do, and their heart for those in need.

One of my struggles with starting my business was that I always viewed fashion and designing clothes as something that is vain, all about the way a person looked, and the status that it gave off. I had a hard time relating that to God and the fact that He could actually use it for the good. Guess what...it looks like He can. :)

Amani Ya Juu

2008-04-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

At the very start of this business venture, God laid on my heart a specific purpose to which He wanted me to work for. A cause that could turn this talent that I was given into a greater purpose for His kingdom.

I always asked God, "Why would you give me such a strange talent? Something like fashion seems so vain sometimes. What in the world am I supposed to do with sewing that helps other people and doesn't lose it's purpose at patching holes in my kids clothes and fixing a button here and there?" Let me just tell you, I finally listened to God's answer and it hasn't left the "front burner" of my mind since.

http://www.amaniafrica.org/ is the website for the organization that I feel God wants me to get involved with. It is called Amani Ya Juu. Check it out.

Passion

2008-03-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

My heart is excited for Africa. I know I'm small, I'm one person, one tiny person that has only a slight and probably very skewed view of a country that is in need of assistance. I have learned so much recently about my thoughts toward Africa, and how there is no way anybody in this world can help that continent, because we want to "fix them". That's wrong. Hearing stories from those that have gone over there, they meet amazing people there - people that are passionate about changing Africa for the better. It is not our job to go there and impose what we think needs to be done, what we think is right, it's our duty to give assistance in what they need.

Even though I am small, just one person, with one small skill, I know I'm still able to help. This past year has taught me that really, my life is not about me. It's about serving a God that so lovingly made me and forgave me. It's about loving others, and giving of myself and my talents to benefit others. Check out this song, it speaks to me.

Set the World on Fire - Britt Nicole
I wanna set the world on fire
Until it's burning bright for You
It's everything that I desire
Can I be the one You use?

I am small, butYou are big enough
I am weak, but You are strong enough to
Take my dreams
Come and give them wings
Lord with You
There's nothing I can not do
Nothing I cannot do

I wanna feed the hungry children
And reach across the farthest land
And tell the broken there is healing
And mercy in the Father's hands

My hands my feet
My everything
My life, my love
Lord, use me

Ransom Wear

2008-02-05T14:39:00.000-08:00

"Give a man a fish, feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, feed him for a lifetime." - Lao Tzu

Ransom Wear kind of nailed this saying on the head for me. I had never been able to apply this to my life, or to something that I've been involved in. Now I feel as though God has really defined my passion for people, and taught me how I could use the gifts He has given me. It's funny how you can hear something your whole life, but until it applies directly to you, it kind of just blows over.

Anyway, go check out www.ransomwear.org. This is another organization that I will be supporting. Check out their story, and the video in the about us seciton, specifically.

Africa

2008-01-28T09:47:00.000-08:00

This past week at our church was Art Sunday. It is the day where people in the church donate art to benefit missions within the church. We have done this twice, and sent teams to Uganda, to a village we are going back again and again to help. A couple that has lived in Africa and done missions there (not in the specific village we are working with, however) for years was interviewed. And the minute the wife of this couple began speaking, was when God nailed it in my heart. The pieces are coming together. She actually works as a liason for an organization that does exactly what has been on my heart: teaching women how to sew, to empower them to provide for their families and give them better lives. Everything began stirring in me, and I'm stoked to see what happens with this.

James Jaggard Photography

2008-01-25T07:08:00.000-08:00

Thanks James for hooking me up with some sweet photos. Here are some pictures from the first official photo shoot (outside of a wedding) on one of my gowns.

Welcome

2008-01-24T15:44:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the blog for Ania. I will publish as much as I have time for to keep everyone up to speed on what I'm up to.

A little background. Ania began as a dream, something to be hoped for, when I was only a senior in high school. I loved weddings, and I loved sewing, and this evolved into my passion for custom designing wedding gowns.

I feel like I have had the, "Been there, done that" experience with school and a pretty high rolling career up until the end of last year. The only thing I had no peace about was the fact that I'd never just gone for it - my dream of Ania. If ever I thought about it over the last five years, I was too scared, not motivated enough, or it just wasn't the right time. Until a couple of weeks ago.

God has lined everything up wonderfully, and continues to do so. The right amount of encouragement at the right time, the right amount of fabric for a sample dress, generous friends who offered a space for me to use as a studio for free, or who did free photos, friends who offered to help me write up concrete contracts and review business plans. Not to mention the right and sincere motives I needed to get going at a good pace.

Welcome to my dream. I can't wait to show you around.