The Elegant Owl: A Folk Artist’s Tale

While attending the Black Creek Arts Council 2011 Christmas Shoppe, I met folk artist, Charis Saunders O’Neal of The Elegant Owl. This unique and beautiful collection is sold at LuLu’s Clothing Boutique. I took this opportunity to find the inspiration and story behind this whimsical collection.

“My inspiration comes from nature and my family.” For Charis new collection, the Nest Series, her inspiration bloomed from a conversation with her curious six-year old daughter. On the way home from school, her daughter asked how a mother bird creates a nest for her baby birds. The conversation sparked an idea for a series of jewelry resembling a mother bird’s nest. “I never realized how much goes into making a nest. It took me 4ft of wire to make one nest.” The ring to the left displayed the work that went into this dainty design.

The realization of her talent is not something she harbored since birth but came as an “Ah-ha” moment two years ago. Charis had spent the previous years raising her two children and knew it was time for her to try something new. She stated that she felt God had given her a gift to share with others and was determined to find it. She discovered her inspiration while wearing a feather hairpin. She knew she could create something similar and from that her talent and business began to develop.

It did not take long for her to make a name for herself by attending local artisan workshops. It was at the SHE magazine weekend that she met Brandi Wheeler of LuLu’s Clothing Boutique. “I love the Elegant Owl because it is made by a local artist and is just that, elegant and timeless.” Brandi said about the collection. After Brandi spotted her collection she was soon selling accessories from LuLu’s shop.

Charis wants each piece to tell a story. “I like creating things that take time and care.” She stated. Anyone can see the time and care that goes into each individual piece of jewelry or accessory. For those whom may be starting their own career as a folk artist, Charis encourages emerging artist to “express themselves and their own voice.”

Charis is very thankful for the opportunities and talent she has been given. Therefore The Elegant Owl is not only an elegant collection but a service to the community. On each purchase 10% of the proceedings go to help a local charity. Past charities have included the Hartsville Soup Kitchen and the Pee Dee Coalition.

To inquire more about the Elegant Owl, check it out on Facebook or visit LuLu’s Clothing Boutique. Check out the Elegant Owl’s Facebook for holiday sales! Customized orders are welcomed!

Shop and Wine: Holiday Edition

The Holiday season is a time for gathering with loved ones, attending lavish parties with friends and embellishing your home with decorations. LuLu’s Clothing Boutique can trim your wardrobe with this season’s hottest fashion! After selecting the perfect outfit for your special occasion, cross over to Vintage to pair your outfit with Christmas spirits! Below are some suggested pairings:

Deck the Halls – Be cozy and stylish as you decorate the tree in this “Funky Holidays” sweater by Funky People. Hang stockings by the fireplace while sipping on Hen’s Tooth English Ale for a traditional holiday with a twist!

Office Party - Dazzle your co-workers in the “Houndstooth” Dress by Judith March. Wear under a black jacket for a professional look. Hop over to Vintage and grab a bottle of the Contempo Inferno. This will compliment your classic but chic look.

Cocktail Party – Be a gorgeous hostess at your annual cocktail party by wearing this “Dressed to Impress” dress by Judith March. For added spice, throw on a pair of red pumps with this dress! As the saucy hostess serve a bottle of Cirque du Vin Vintage 2009 Red Wine.

Christmas Brunch with Family - Awaken with excitement on Christmas morn for two reasons; opening presents and to wear this “Warm and Fuzzy” Sweater Dress by Judith March. To make this dress even cozier, pair with brown boots. Be prepared for brunch with the family with Kung Fu Girl Riesling. This light and refreshing wine will paired perfectly with brunch. To satisfy all members of the family take along some delirum tremens Pink Elephant beer. This will give those watching football something to sip on.

New Years Eve Party – Sparkle as bright as the New Year’s Ball in this elegant and fun “Deck the Halls with Glitter” dress by Double Zero. No New Year’s Eve party is complete without champagne. Ring in the New Year with a kiss and a bottle of Prosecco. Cheers!

Stocking Stuffers

This holiday season hang your stockings by the chimney with care and include these exciting stocking stuffers from LuLu’s Clothing Boutique and Vintage. Here are some great gift ideas:

1. Get Personal: Moon and Lola monogrammed necklaces are an added surprise to any stocking. Choose from a variety of colors in the acrylic style shown or 14K gold. Call LuLu’s Boutique today to place your order.

2. Cute Critters: Surprise your sports fan with these Owl Stickers in either Clemson or Carolina team colors.

3. Heavenly Scent: Scented candles are a great addition to any stocking. Try the Voluspa and Ergo candles sold in a variety of enticing scents.

4. The Gift of LuLu’s: For the LuLu’s fan in your family, purchase this year's “LuLu Tee”. Available in youth and adult sizes.

5. Christmas Spirits: For the wino in your life, try the Portable Wine Tour from Vintage.

Happy Holidays!

Cyber Monday!

Many people fear shopping online but here’s your chance to try it! Seize the day with Cyber Monday at LuLu’s Clothing Boutique. Get online and visit http://shoplulusboutique.com/ to find this season's hottest fashion. You can even shop while at work. (Just don’t let your boss catch you!) It gets even better. If you make a purchase of over $100 you will receive free shipping. Call the shop for this deal at 843-334-5471.

Since you are already online, hop over to www.stelladot.com/brandiwheeler for special deals! Get 20% off on your next purchase at LuLu’s Clothing Boutique with any purchase of Stella and dot merchandise!

Happy Cyber Monday!

LuLu's Happenings

Snuggle up in this cozy sweater! My pick of the week!

It’s time to start stocking up on Holiday gifts for loved ones! There are plenty of chances to shop your favorite LuLu’s merchandise this holiday season! Make a date with LuLu’s Clothing Boutique for the following dates:

November 10^th for Holiday Happening at Saffron from 6-9pm.

November 17^th for Downtown Holiday Open House from 6-9pm at Vintage and LuLu’s!

November 18^th – 19^th for SHE Weekend at the Florence Civic Center.

Brandism of the Week: Birthday Celebration

As many of you know today is Brandi’s birthday! Brandi says, “A birthday is never just one day. It should always be a weeklong celebration!” Every year Brandi celebrates her birthday with a weekend excursion to the lovely mountains of Asheville, NC. Her and her husband travel to their favorite getaway and frequent a quaint mountain inn. There are many must-sees on Brandi’s list!

The first stop on Brandi’s list is Early Girl Eatery for some culinary delights. Another must-do is a tour and tasting of the Highland Brewery. For entertainment, Brandi visits The Orange Peel for live music. Brandi also stops by a local boutique called Tops for Shoes to end the perfect Birthday Trip!

Brandi's B-Day Bargain Week

This is Brandi’s Birth-week! In celebration of Brandi’s birthday, LuLu’s will have Birthday Bargains throughout the week. Received 20% off jewelry TODAY at LuLu’s by naming Brandi’s favorite food! Check Facebook throughout the week for more bargain opportunities!

Learn how to celebrate your birthday with this week's Brandism.

On Wednesday Brandi's Birthday excursion will be revealed!