New Strapless Lace Tops

I wanted to share with you these super cute lace tops for little girls! They come in a variety of colors and are so perfect for dress up or for everyday! I got a chance to take a couple shots of my daughter in a white one this morning! They will be available in the Etsy shop soon!!

Featured Photographer ~ Dana Read

Happy Friday Everyone! It is an absolutely stunningly super duper beautiful day here in NJ today! Puts mama in a good mood :) I would like to throw a little inspiration at you to start your weekend off on a positive note.

Today I would like to introduce you all to my very first "Featured Photographer"....

Dana Read of Firefly Photography located in Andover, NJ. I wanted to interview Dana because I love her passion, her enthusiasm and her drive! Nothing stops Dana. She's a tiny woman yes, but she packs alot of punch.

She has a unique style that is all her own. Earthy, whimsical and enchanting! Dana is a natural light photographer specializing in maternity and child photography and she is VERY dedicated to keeping her business eco-friendly.

BALM: Where did you study photography? Are you self taught?

Dana: I am finding that in the digital era, a lot of emerging pro photographers are self-taught. I have done coursework in fine art and design, but I haven’t studied photography in a formal academic setting. I have taken workshops and I study the art and technical side of photography every single day. The internet has really facilitated this. I will always have something to learn. When I’ve got it figured out, it won’t be fun anymore.

BALM: What influenced you to become a photographer?

Dana: Well the cliché answer is that I have loved photography since I got my first camera at 12 years old, but it’s true. I would photograph anything (like the newspaper lying in flattened flowerbed at the end of the driveway). I even followed my grandfather to one of his worksites to photograph him laying brick. My mother still has these pictures in a family album somewhere. Really, I have always been a visual artist whether it was photography, charcoals, pencil, colored pencil, oils, acrylics, or watercolors…..I am there!

BALM: When did you decide to go pro?

Dana: It’s strange, I don’t ever remember “deciding”. It just sort of happened. Seriously. Ironically that was just about a year ago now, and I never would have thought I’d be here right now.

BALM: What camera to you prefer?

Dana: Canon

BALM: What lenses do you use most frequently?

Dana: My 50mm

BALM: What do you always carry in your camera bag?

Dana: Backup gear!!

BALM:What is your biggest challenge as a photographer?

Dana: It’s actually not photography-related. My biggest challenge being a professional is balancing the right brain (being an artist) with the left brain (being a businesswoman). Throwing motherhood into the mix also doesn’t help!

BALM: What makes you a good photographer in your opinion?

Dana: I could give you the answer that I see beauty in everyday things, but the fact of the matter is that I am extremely driven to be the best photographer I can possibly be and I am always working on strengthening my skill set

BALM: What do you enjoy most about photography?

Dana: I get to be creative! I get to be imaginative. I get to have my ideas turned to reality. People get to enjoy the images I make for a very long time. And it happens to be a lot of fun!

BALM: What motivates you to do what you do?

Dana: (See #9)

BALM: If you could have a mentoring session from any photographer who would it be?

Dana: My inspiration is Barb Uil. I love her sunny, whimsical style. She is a master artist and master technician. She’s downright brilliant!

BALM: What would be your advice to a photographer just breaking into the professional field?

Dana: Learn everything you can – find it – there is free information everywhere from generous veteran photographers who want you to succeed. Also, find your own niche and be original. Be clear about who you are.

BALM: How do you stay true to your vision and keep your clients happy at the same time?

Dana: I have actually turned down jobs in an effort to stay true to my specific style. So my clients haven’t really challenged me to abandon my vision. I have been told that my style is very distinct. So I am assuming that the folks attracted to my work, respect my vision, and that has been my idea all along.

BALM: Where would I find you when you are not behind the camera?

Dana: I think a lot of photographers who are also mommies will identify with me here; Either on the computer post-processing images or cuddling with my son who is the light of my life. Sometimes he’s on my lap while I am on the computer.

BALM: What is your favorite quote?

Dana: I have a few, but I think a good one for your readers is something like this, by George Bernard Shaw, You see things as they are and ask “why”? I see things as they never were and say “why not”?

Well said! Thank you Dana!

Spring Celebration ~ 1500 Fan Giveaway WINNER

The winner has been chosen!! What a great Sunday afternoon for some lucky photographer. Geez Louise. On behalf of all the vendors who participated I want to thank each and every one of you for entering, visiting all the fanpages and all your kind words. It makes it all worth it to hear from you all. It truly does! Even if you didn't win this time we have giveaways pretty frequently around here. I am all about spreading the love so keep coming back and keep trying!!

Here we go.....


(winner was chosen by random.org).......


Comment # 55 by Chris....Chris says.... "shared this blog/contest on my FB page :)" On March 21,20011

Chris please leave me a comment here with your contact information....you will have until Midnight Tuesday April 12th to respond...if you do not respond in that time frame, I will have to pick another winner. So please, please make sure you leave a comment.


Thanks again everyone!!

~Muah

Spring Celebration ~ 1500 Fan Giveaway

I love doing giveaways. I really do! It is so much fun for me work with all of these fabulous talented shop owners and photographers! Not just that but it makes me so happy to give back to my fans and customers. I don't really need a reason to host a giveaway, but the first day of Spring and 1500 fans is plenty good reason in my opinion!

Now, let's get down to the nitty gritty...what's in it for you? Well, LOTS! First, lets go over the rules! You will have five thats right, I said it, FIVE opportunities to win. The first step will be required to enter and the next steps are extra entries and basically just give you a better chance to win.

Step 1 ~ THIS STEP IS REQUIRED!! ~ Visit each vendor's Facebook fanpage and "like" their page. Leaving some love is not mandatory, but is always appreciated. When you have finished leave a comment here that you have done so. (you only need to comment ONCE that you have liked all pages!)

I will list all the shops Facebook Links at the bottom of the page as well to make it easier!

Step 2 ~ Favorite each vendors Etsy shop (where there is an Etsy link listed). Comment here that you have done so.

Step 3~ Become a follower of my blog. Comment here that you have done so.

Step 4~ Leave me a review on my Facebook fanpage. Comment here that you have done so.

Step 5~ Share this blog post on your facebook page and tag Bebe A La Mode. Comment here that you have done so.

I will be checking to see if you have done the steps so no cheating!!! I'll be watching you ;)

You will have until 11:59 PM April 6, 2011 to enter. Any comments posted on April 7th or after will not be submitted. The winner will be announced on April 10, 2011. It is your responsibility to contact me within 48 hours of announcement. You may email me at jeanrhinesmith@bebealamode.com If you do not contact me within 48 hrs I will choose another winner. Sorry to be so rigid but if I'm not things get all confusing.

Now for the FUN part!! :)))
Are you ready to see all the phenomenal prizes..... READY...SET....GO!!!


First up is from my boutique...

Bebe A La Mode Boutique
Facebook
Etsy Shop

I will be offering up one of my Vintage Inspired Petti Rompers and one Gauzy Wrap....

Marlena Jean Props
Facebook
has so generously offered up.....are you ready? Winners choice of one of her breathtaking Canopies or jawdropping Rose Garland Props....I'm drooling!

The Organic Bloom
Facebook
Website
is offering up one of their beautiful and unique 8x10 frames!

(Photography by Chasing Fireflies Photography)

On The Spot Studio
Facebook
Website
is offering a discount of 35% off anything in the store! Wow and check out all her amazing designs!

Portrait Pizzaz
Facebookis offering up any 15X7 backdrop! What a Great Prize!! These backdrops are to die for...

StrawberrieRose
Facebook
Etsyis giving away one of here uber cute petti tutu's (valued at $38.95)

Banner Boutique

Facebook
Blog
Is giving away three gorgeous headbands!!
Hot Pink Flower Heaband
The Audrey Headband and The Fionna Headband

Rason's Stuff
Facebook
Website
Etsy
has offered up a $75.00 Gift Voucher toward her Business Basics Photography Course AND a Complimentary Design!

Glorious Memory
Facebook
Website
is given a $35.00 Credit to her amazing shop!

Blue Daisy Digital
Facebook
Blog
Twitter
Etsy

is giving away an album (digital templates) valued at $25...fun stuff!

Swanky Stitch
Facebook

Blog
is donating 1 of her divine Camera Strap Covers {Winner's Choice of instock Strap} AND a super sweet Lens Friend!

Payne Street Doll Boutique
Facebook
Etsy
has kindly offered a $50.00 Gift Certificate to her amazing store! Have you seen her Newborn Beds? They are fabulous!

A Bit of String
Facebook
Etsy
Blog
has donated $25 credit to her Etsy shop! She has such a great collection of darling handknit and crocheted accessories and photo props for kids and newborns.

Mirror Images Photography
Facebook
Website
Blog
is offering a free 2 hour Mentoring Session AND a Logo Design Service {includes business card design, profile image, and logo with copyright release}! Love it!

In Focus Photography By Nicole
Facebook
is giving you the choice of one 8x10 print! (The elephant image would be an 8x8 ) Look at the beautiful choices!

**(Photo will not have watermark, not to be re-sold for profit)**

Shipping is included
Value $ 25

Everyday Keepsakes
FacebookWebsite
Etsy

Has offered her Camera Pendant! This is too cute! Don't you just love it?

Megan O'Keeffe Photography
Facebook


Website


Blog

is offering up one 8x10 fine art print. Have you seen her work? She is such an amazing artist. Truly inspirational! Her passion shines through in all her photos.

Last but most definately NOT least
Firefly Photography
Facebook
Website
Blog

One of my favorite photographers, Dana Read of Firefly is donating some of her stunning custom digital design elements. The first is Avalon: A Texture Set. These are unbelievable! I LOVE LOVE LOVE them! You will receive 12 rustic textures all derived from natural elements outside. Included in the pack are: Garden Door, Into the Wood, Excalibur, Avalon, Fairy Whispers (my personal favorite!), & Camelot. (See examples below). She is also throwing in a pair of whimsical, vintage inspired 5x7 birth announcements (one for a boy and one for a girl). These are so precious! This girl's got talent!

Bebe A La Mode Boutique
Marlena Jean Props
Organic Bloom
On the Spot Studio
Portrait Pizzaz
StrawberrieRose
Banner Boutique
Rason's Stuff
Glorious Memory
Blue Daisy Digital
Swanky Stitch
Payne Street Doll Boutique
A Bit of String
Mirror Images Photography
In Focus Photography By Nicole
Everyday Keepsakes
Firefly Photography
Megan O'Keeffe Photography

~Good Luck to you all and thank you sooo sooo much for being a part of the giveaway and for being soooo freakin awesome!
~Hugs and Kisses from Bebe A La Mode

1000 Fan Giveaway Winners!!

Good Morning Everyone! I would like to thank all of you for entering and for all your kind words and compliments! It really and truly means alot to me. Now, with great pleasure, I would like to announce the winners! YAY!

***Winners Please Contact me via email at jeanrhinesmith@bebealamode.com****

The Winner of the 6 Free Wraps is....

Angel Haraveth!

The Winner of the Surprise Pack of Hair Accessories (value $35.00) is....

Amy Henderson!


Now for the winners of the 6 Wraps for $40.00

*******You will have 24 hours to purchase your wraps! If you haven't paid your invoice in 24 hours I will choose another winner) Thank You for understanding!********

Heather Dougherty

Stephanie Baker

Megan Terry

Cindy Smith

Brandi Varnell

Jennifer Changuris

Sara S

Karly Kramer

Janine Jordan

Chris Metzger


Congratulations to all the winners! I wish you all could win. Don't forget you can still purchase the wraps through my Etsy store for anyone interested.

Great Giveaway Going on Over At The Organic Bloom!

Hi Everyone! I just wanted to inform you of the fantastic giveaway going on over at The Organic Bloom Enter for you chance to win some great prizes! When I say great prizes I am not kidding! You have to check it out and see. I am offering up a pair of my teddy bear hats and a vintage inspired headband! There are LOTS more things to win so don't miss it! :) Good Luck Everyone! xoxo

New And Fun Photo Props~

Hi there friends! I just wanted to share a few pictures of the new crochet photography props I have made recently. I am having so much fun making all of these goodies!

I am always looking for photographers to photograph my work, so if you are a professional and are interested please feel free to contact me at jeanrhinesmith@bebealamode.com

I really love this little owl hat! So fun knowing that this hat that I created with my own two hands made it half way around the world and is keeping some little baby girl warm (all the way in Russia)!

I love this little pink bear hat! I can't wait to see this on a newborn! Looks so cute in blue also.

I made this hat for two gorgeous sisters. They both have a head full of beautiful dark brown curls. One was just a newborn and her sister is four! So cute~

And last but not least here is a fun and colorful super chunky beanie hat! I love the colors and texture of this hat! I can't wait to make more of these in a variety of colors~
Hope you enjoyed and if you would like to purchase any of these hats you can find them on my etsy shop. http://www.bebealamodeboutique.etsy.com

Family Snow Day

There is nothing like a snowday to make you feel like a kid again. Last Wednesday we got about 8-10 inches. My husband's work was called off and we got to spend the whole day home together! I decided to take a little break from orders and take advantage of having some quality time with the two people I love the most in this world. My daughter, who is 17 months old didn't really know what to make of the snow. She loved it for sure!

For me it just felt good to get outside, run around, get some frest air (even if it was cold) and most of all play with my little girl and listen to her little squeals of laughter as I lifted her up high and spun her around.

Also to watch my husband kneel down and play with her! It's always so sweet to watch them together!

Whenever it snows, I still get excited and giddy for a "snowday" and I always have to catch a few snowflakes on my tongue.
The snow really is so pretty, so serene, gently falling down tiny snowflake by tiny snowflake creating this massive blanket of glistening FLUFF!! It makes even the barest ugliest tree look stunning. Here are some pictures from our day. It was alot of fun, but I do have to admit I am a little...ok more than a little anxious for spring!!

Ballerinas

I have always been fascinated by ballerinas and the beautiful art of ballet. Ever since I was a tiny little girl I have admired the strength, beauty and elegance of ballet dancers. Even in preschool when they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up I said simply, “a ballerina”. I remember watching the Nutcracker and Swan Lake on TV as a child an dreaming about being able to dance like that.
A ballerina has so many endearing qualities, infinite grace, ultimate femininity, unbelievable flexibility, incredible self-discipline and immaculate form. Every muscle in a dancer’s body is perfectly sleek and toned. They have absolute control over their entire body, each limb right down to each fingertip and toe. Every move is perfectly orchestrated. They play their bodies like a symphony. You could describe them as earthy, mortal angels! I am mesmerized every time I watch them.
Their beautiful tutus and bodices so intricately beaded, made with fine lace and trim has inspired me to make a whole new line of tutus, tutu onesies and headdresses for 2011. I am so excited to begin working on them. I hope you will share my enthusiasm! I will be posting pictures in the coming weeks, so stay tuned! In the meantime, here are some images I loved and wanted to share them with you!! Please dont forget to "like" us on Facebook!! http://www.facebook.com/bebealamodeboutique