Sparkles at Ayla’s Bead Bazaar

September closed out with a pop-up at Ayla’s Fall Bead Bazaar.

I had perused the bazaar last year and was thrilled to be one of the vendors this year.

What’s not to like about being surrounded by sparkles and beauty?

Last year’s Pyrite strand made it into a set.

I paired it with my Desigual dress for the day.

I also combined it with the ring I bought from Ayla’s booth last year, which matched the sparkly Noktivo nails nicely.

The set also marked a tagging milestone (when I hadn’t properly identified the beads).

Before the fair, I had to tally up my cash and business cards to make sure I was set.

My satin necklace cords had dwindled as well, so I spent one afternoon tediously cutting and crimping.

It is always fun to see the bare bones of a fair.

My table was set up with time to spare.

So I perused the other booths before the public came in.

Elka’s Designs has so many treasures.

I had picked up strands from her trunk show recently at Ayla’s Originals Evanston store.

Elka hand-picked the colors for this Hematite bangle.

I felt the need for some orange and she had this Hollowite Turquoise on hand. The coppery acrylic beads are lightweight in spite of their size.

This Pink Agate set lights up my life and wardrobe.

I played with Fall notes for the round hematite beaded bangle (and I have plenty of beads for monochromatic versions as well).

Ayla’s had a variety of tables to peruse, including pearls and silver strands of gorgeousness:

Leather:

Glass beads I will eventually work into a design:

There were gorgeous handmade beads and pendants:

Organic jewelry and jewelry components:

The Pastels Chicago show at the Art Center – Highland Park was not as pastell-y as anticipated. I was surprised by the earth tones in many pieces.

So much sparkle!

I was worried I might not be able to find the strands of this chunky bead bangle that has been requested by two customers already.

Thankfully Dakota Stones was right in front of me.

Hooray, two strands for me (and more goodies)!

I wasn’t the only one browsing the $5 and $10 strands.

I was tempted by so many other beads, but had to restrain myself.

After all, one has to turn a profit first!

All these embellishments spark so many ideas!

The ornaments drew admiration, so I hope some holiday orders come my way.

It was a lovely day filled with inspiration, and I look forward to showing the new creations from my new stash.