Saturday, October 20, 2012

Behind the Name: Adrian

 

  


Surprisingly, not all of our Shells are inspired after women; at times, they are named after a special man or boy in our lives. The Adrian Shell came from one of our Design Team members, who was inspired by its beautiful blue material that matched her nephew’s eyes. Adrian has a very special story of his own and in honor of National Spina Bifida Awareness month we have decided to share his story.

Here is Adrian’s story written by his mom, Chelsey Ulibarri:

The day we found out that Adrian had Spina Bifida is a day I will always remember as if it were yesterday. It was the day after the Super Bowl. My boyfriend and I were so excited because this was the day we were hopefully going to find out if we were going to be having a little boy or a little girl! After the ultrasound was completed the nurse had simply stated she needed to make a call and disappeared for a long period of time. The first 5 minutes felt fine but as time passed I was able to sense that something wasn’t right; when the nurse finally returned she passed the phone to me and told me they wanted to talk to me. My heart instantly dropped and every bad thought imaginable flooded my head to the point that I was only hearing every other word the woman was saying. I had never heard of Spina Bifida until that moment and was unclear what it meant and how it was going to impact my baby’s life as well as mine.

That same day we were sent to a high-risk clinic to meet with a geneticist. She began to explain to us what Spina Bifida was: a birth defect of the spine. Think of a zipper. You zip your jacket up to the top and there is a bubble where the “zipper” is no longer connected; essentially that is what happens to the spine on a baby with Spina Bifida: the spine never fully develops. That’s how it was explained to me and that is still how I explain it to this day.

The day I went into labor was the third scariest day of my life because I didn’t know what to expect when my son was born. Like most Spina Bifida births, our delivery would be via C-section, as this method is safer and less traumatic for the baby’s opening in the back.

When Adrian was born, all I heard was a brief cry and then he was gone. He was immediately taken away for evaluation. I wasn’t able to hold Adrian until 2 days after he was born; I relied on pictures that my boyfriend and family members would show me since we were at different hospitals. For any parent I am sure you can understand that this wasn’t easy and I had a hard time dealing with it all.
We spent our first month at Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City. Adrian underwent major surgery and was having trouble with his breathing. We spent every day there with him from morning until night; I couldn’t tell you the amount of tears I cried watching him go through everything in that first month. We ended up being allowed to go home with oxygen support but that only lasted 2 weeks before we were back at the hospital due to his having excessive fluid in his brain. He underwent another surgery to have a shunt placed in his brain that he will now have for his entire life.

Adrian had to have multiple hospital visits which included an additional surgery at 8 months old. He had to be catheterized at home and was dependent on oxygen for a long time.

Adrian’s level of Spina Bifida is an L4-L5. Adrian cannot feel from the knees down and was born with clubbed feet,Ad which will have to be operated, and he’ll get a series of castings to help correct them.

Due to the lack of sensation, Adrian cannot walk alone but does have a walker and leg braces to assist him; at this point in the game I think this is what is hardest for me. My son has the most vibrant personality with so much energy and it kills me to see him watch other kids running or climbing knowing that he has a desire to do these same things.

It hurts because from the very beginning of this journey I have felt the guilt that it is somehow my fault that my son has to go through all this. As a parent you want to take the pain away from your child but in some cases you can only put on the front that you’re strong because hopefully that will make your child just as strong; but our children are stronger than we think.

I see my son looking at everybody as if he is missing out, but the reality of it is my son knows no differently and has learned to adapt to do the things he wants to do. I remember when Adrian had his leg correction surgery and I had been crying, he woke up and the first thing he said to me was, “Why you crying, Mom?” He has never let any of his life moments get him down and I have never seen my son truly sad. My son’s spirit has been what has kept me going; he has changed who I am and my outlook on life and is the prime example of happiness. Because he is strong, he has made me strong.
I wouldn’t change anything about my son, because I firmly believe my son is who he is today because of the things life has thrown our way; I am where I am in life because of what we have experienced. Our life has proven to us that adversity is truly a blessing in disguise and although our journey has only begun, our optimism will keep us going.

To this day nobody is completely sure what causes this disease. Scientists say it is most likely due to a combination of inherited (genetic), environmental, and nutritional factors. Many believe not having enough Folic Acid during and prior to pregnancy increases your chances of a child having Spina Bifida. If you would like to learn more about this increasingly more common birth defect please visit www.spinabifidaassociation.org.


Friday, October 5, 2012

Style Watch: Winter 2012

Our winter Shell, Snowflake, is the perfect way to celebrate the season. With its delicate snowflake pattern and silvery hue, it is understated and bold all at once. It is a look that will lighten your step and warm your heart all season long!

How to Wear your Snowflake with Style:

Shimmer and glimmer: The silver color of Snowflake opens up all kinds of winter wonderland accessories possibilities for you! Pair her with a shiny silver statement necklace (see photo above) or an armful of silvery bangles.

Starry Eyes: This time of year, cosmetic stores are bursting with eye shadows in shades of silver, pearlized white, icy blues and other cool hues that complement both the frosty season and your Snowflake Shell. Try something new!

The Perfect Coat: Snowflake is the ideal accessory that goes with just about any coat color. Lucky you! Make sure now that your winter apparel is clean and ready for when the snow flies. Put Snowflake over your shoulder, throw a silvery scarf around your neck and you’re ready to SHINE all winter long. Have fun!


The holidays will soon be upon us, so why not look ahead and get your shopping off to a great start?

Monday, October 1, 2012

Hope ♥ Free Charmer with purchase of select Hope Shells, Oct 2012 - Retired




 

Thanks to the numerous requests we have received over the years from both Representatives and customers, we were inspired to create Hope—our first Shell with a true cause—to do our part in the fight against cancer. Cancer has an effect on every individual, in one way or another, and we believe with the release of our series of Hope Shells and the important message they represent, that we have found a meaningful way to give back to our Miche family members and their communities.

These are our Premium Shells we simply call; Hope


When you first see them, you notice the designs for the various Hope Shells focus on actual quotes collected from many individuals who have been through the fight against cancer. When you purchase one, you will see a tag attached to your Hope Shell containing a picture and personalized quote by very special person who has fought and won their own personal battle against this disease. 

Project Hope is now in its third year, and Miche is committed to continuing donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Hope Shell to cancer research facilities all across the country 10 months out of twelve each year. The Miche Bag team is 100% committed to our Hope initiative. 

We invite you to join us in sharing the inspiring message Hope has to offer as we strive to give back and make a difference in the fight against cancer!

DOUBLE HOSTESS REWARDS!!

Get Double Hostess Rewards!

Twice the rewards means twice the shopping fun—for YOU!

For a Limited Time Only—Sweet Hostess Rewards Get Even Sweeter! 

The rewards for hosting a Miche Party are already amazing—you can get many of your favorite products FREE or at a discount. With the Double Hostess Rewards promotion, your rewards double when you host a qualifying Party of $200 or more. For example, if your Party sales total is $600, you get an additional $60 for a total of $120 in Hostess product credit. You also get to purchase four (4) half-priced Shells instead of two (2). What a great way to shop for holiday gifts for the Miche fan in your life—or for yourself!



So from now until October 31st, you will earn 
DOUBLE HOSTESS REWARDS when you have a qualifying party! 
 
YAY!! 
 
Contact me NOW and we'll get your (online) party started!!

Friday, September 28, 2012

Style Watch: Fall 2012


The passing of Labor Day usually marks the end of summer and the beginning of fall, and I for one could not be more excited. All of the storefronts have the latest fall fashions displayed and the colors are all just so inspiring!

To help you navigate all that is “in” this season, here are the hottest color trends this fall!

Honey gold is a ray of sunshine that will brighten any fall day. From mellow or burnished yellow to the soft muted tones of goldenrod, you can’t go wrong with some yellow in your closet.

Shades of orange—either fiery or burnt—are both vivacious and enticing! Spice up your fall wardrobe with lots of orange!

Nothing is more cool, calming, and fresh than teal—it is fall’s most inspiring color and makes a terrific accent to tan, grey or black outfits.

Purple offers a new take on familiar neutrals. It’s an easy color to wear and looks great on everyone!

French Roast is rich and robust. It is a sophisticated hue that is a great alternative to the black and charcoal basics typically worn in autumn.

Fall’s hottest colors are only the beginning of all that the season has to offer. What is your favorite fall fashion trend?

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Miche's New Snowflake Shells for October 2012


Our winter Shell, Snowflake, is the perfect way to celebrate the season. With its delicate snowflake pattern and silvery hue, it is understated and bold all at once. It is a look that will lighten your step and warm your heart all season long!

How to Wear your Snowflake with Style:

Shimmer and glimmer: The silver color of Snowflake opens up all kinds of winter wonderland accessories possibilities for you! Pair her with a shiny silver statement necklace (see photo above) or an armful of silvery bangles.

Starry Eyes: This time of year, cosmetic stores are bursting with eye shadows in shades of silver, pearlized white, icy blues and other cool hues that complement both the frosty season and your Snowflake Shell. Try something new!

The Perfect Coat: Snowflake is the ideal accessory that goes with just about any coat color. Lucky you! Make sure now that your winter apparel is clean and ready for when the snow flies. Put Snowflake over your shoulder, throw a silvery scarf around your neck and you’re ready to SHINE all winter long. Have fun!

The holidays will soon be upon us, so why not look ahead and get your shopping off to a great start?


Great tips, Jennie! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow :)

Snowflake ~ Demi Shell, October 2012

 

NOW RETIRED!!

Snowflake
Demi Shell / Signature Pricing

It just wouldn’t be winter without a fresh blanket of powder! 
 The Snowflake Shell for Demi Bags captures the spirit of the season 
with whimsy and style. 

White and crystal blue snowflakes fall gently against a winter sky grey 
faux leather background. Features a back zippered pocket, perfect for 
mobile phones. Carry her wherever you go this season and let it snow!




Snowflake ~ Classic Shell, October 2012 - Retired

 

SOLD OUT / RETIRED!

Snowflake
Classic Shell / Standard Pricing

Let it snow, Let it Snow, Let it SNOW!!

 The frosty joys of the season are perfectly captured in the 
Snowflake Shell for Classic Miche Bags. 

White and crystal blue snowflakes dance on a winter sky grey faux 
leather background. It’s a look that will lighten your step and 
warm your heart all season long!



Snowflake ~ Petite Shell, October 2012 - Retired

 

SOLD OUT / RETIRED

Snowflake
Petite Shell / Standard Pricing

Let it snow! The frosty joys of the season are perfectly captured
in the Snowflake Shell for Petite Miche Bags. 

White and crystal blue snowflakes dance on a winter sky grey faux 
leather background. It’s a look that will lighten your step and warm 
your heart all season long!



Sunday, August 26, 2012

Miche's New Releases for September 2012 ~ Sneak Peek!!

Remember: These Shells are LIMITED and will be available to order
September 1st at www.FunBagBiz.com :)

In depth detail of the Shells are listed below: 

Behind the Name: Marseille, Annecy, Lucerne




The glacier waters of Lake Annecy, steely grey rivers of Lucerne and the azure blue waters off the coast of Marseille are some of my favorite memories in Europe. And these memories helped inspire the lovely Miche Luxe Shells that bear these towns’ names.

Annecy is a charming little town nestled in the French Alps and it’s where I lost my heart to the French countryside. Here I once ran through the streets giggling with laughter, completely in love with all the possibilities a young woman could imagine. In a quaint restaurant by the lake, I savored the most amazing au gratin potatoes I have ever had the pleasure to eat—an experience all au gratin dishes will be measured against in the future!

Lucerne is known as the gateway to Central Switzerland, and the quaint architecture in its “old town” reminded me of storybooks and fairy tales. I spent hours exploring its maze of little streets and secret passages. But my favorite memory is the hour I spent gazing over the Reuss River from the famous Chapel Bridge—the icy grey color of the water shining with glints from the late afternoon sun was unforgettable, and it’s an image I still cherish.

Marseille is an ancient port city in southernmost France, known for its amazing fresh seafood, unique culture and warm hospitality. I took a drive up to Cap Canaille, which is the highest sea cliff in France. From there I saw one of the most incredible views ever. The Mediterranean Sea spread out as far as the eye can see— in all its splendor, dotted with sailboats. It was a blue so intense that it seemed like heaven.



From the glimmer of each embellishment to the deep grey-blue color of the material, the design of these Shells reflects the colors of these unforgettable cities. May they capture your heart as Europe did for me.

If you have a destination that has inspired you, we would love to hear it! Please send your stories to design@miche.com for an opportunity to have one of our next Miche Luxe Shells named in your honor! And be sure to check back next week for the last set of the “Behind the Name” series about the Miche Luxe Collection.

Thank you, Jennie ~ Fabulous as always :)


Behind the Name: Quincy, Sedona & Aspen





Each Shell in the Miche Luxe Collection is named after one of my favorite cities in the world; the cities have their own characters and personalities which definitely inspired some unique looks.

Quincy, Massachusetts has a quaint charm that brings thoughts of patriotism, heritage, and gratitude.



I love Sedona, Arizona’s stunning sunsets against the desert rock and Joshua trees silhouetted in the skyline.



And then there is Aspen, Colorado, a beautiful retreat from the suburban norm. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, its slopes are blanketed with pines and, of course, aspen trees. In the winter months, this village goes from charming to magical! The steep rocky slopes provide the perfect spot for skiing—at least they did once I got better at it. This is where I ate snow for the first time as an adult, after my face plant and tumble down the mountain! But now I love to ski. It provides an escape along with a constant challenge and a rush of freedom as you push yourself to the limits. I have a special place in my heart for Aspen.



I hope these Shells fill your life with beautiful memories and moments—just as their namesakes have for me. If you have a destination that is close to your heart and makes you feel like living a more inspired life, we would love to hear it! Please send your stories to design@miche.com for an opportunity to have one of our next Miche Luxe Shells named for you! And be sure to check back next week when we feature more Shells in this amazing collection!  

Thank you, Jennie :)


Marseille ~ Prima Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)


Marseille
Prima Shell / Luxe Pricing

 The fashion-forward styling of the Marseille for Prima Bags will make your
heart beat a little faster and bring that extra touch of bling you love to any outfit.


Soft faux leather in a cool shade of light grey is accented by oversized stud and
grommet detailing in various metallic colors—it’s a trendy look that is both flirtatious and fun and perfect for when you want to really shine! Side pockets.
 
As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Marseille comes with matching handles (a pair of
short handles and a single long strap), key fob and a dust cover for easy storage.
Handle (short) length: 16”; width: .75”; handle drop: 7”
Handle (long) length: 36.75”; width: 2”; handle drop: 17.5”

Quincy ~ Prima Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)


Quincy
Prima Shell / Luxe Pricing
 
Can a girl ever be too rich?
We don’t think so… and sometimes richness is what  we crave in a handbag too!
 
The Quincy for Prima Bags features faux leather in deepest dark chocolate.
An overall crocodile pattern and sophisticated criss-cross buckled strap details with
rich antique brass hardware will make you feel and look like a million dollars
every time you wear her. Side pockets.
 
As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Quincy comes with matching stylish twisted handles, key fob
and a dust cover for easy storage.
 
Handle length: 22”; width: 1”; handle drop: 10.75”

Annecy ~ Demi Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)


Annecy
Demi Shell / Luxe Pricing
 
The Annecy for Demi Bags brings the inspiration of the French Alps and
high fashion styling together to create a look that is absolutely stunning.
 
Glacier-grey soft faux leather is accented by oversized stud and grommet detailing
in various metallic colors. When the sun hits Annecy just right, she glistens like
icicles atop Mont Blanc. Get your shine on wherever you go when you carry this
unique Shell on your arm!
As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Annecy comes with 2 matching handles
(a pair of short handles and a single long handle), key fob and a dust cover for easy storage.
 Handle (short) length: 16”; width: .75”; handle drop: 7”.
Handle (long) length: 36.75”; width: 2”; handle drop: 19.75”


Aspen ~ Demi Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)


Aspen
Demi Shell / Luxe Pricing

 Mmmmm… imagine a delightful après-ski party at an exclusive resort in Colorado.
You sweep past a roaring fire looking impeccable from head to toe.. and the gorgeous
Aspen on your arm makes your look complete!

Aspen for Demi Bags features faux leather in deep hot chocolate brown, accented
with enchanting herringbone loops woven with slender antique brass chains.

As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Aspen comes with matching handles, key
fob and a dust cover for easy storage.

Handle length: 26.25”; width: 1”; handle drop: 13”


Behind the Name: Carmel & Lincoln




While Nebraska may be what naturally comes to mind when you hear the name “Lincoln,” the two Shells I am highlighting this week are actually named after a couple of beautiful cities on the Northwest coast.

Lincoln is a small town along the Oregon coast that takes me back to my childhood. In fact, this is where my earliest memories of the ocean were created. Each summer my family gathered in this charming coastal escape for a family reunion and I remember waking up each morning to the sound of the crashing waves. I also remember combing the beach for shells and searching the tide pools for all kinds mysterious tiny sea creatures.

In Lincoln, grey skies and ocean breezes provide the perfect setting for flying kites—kites of every shape, color, and size fill the sky each afternoon. As night fell we would build a bonfire and roast marshmallows. On just such a magical evening, I had my first kiss.

Carmel is a town along the northern California coastline that provides a graceful and quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco. This is the perfect location to spend a quiet afternoon shopping in small boutiques as well as enjoying lunch and the company of close friends. This is a place to relax, take a deep cleansing breath of ocean air and treasure the moments in life that offer a peace and healing.



If you have a destination that has inspired you, we would love to hear it! Please send your stories to design@miche.com for an opportunity to have one of our next Miche Luxe Shells named in your honor! 

Thank you, Jennie :)


Lincoln ~ Demi Luxe Shell, September 2012 - Retired


Lincoln
Demi Shell / Luxe Pricing

Do you have an important evening planned that you’ve been waiting weeks to enjoy?
You have the perfect outfit. The perfect hair style. The perfect make-up. The perfect shoes.

Now you just need the perfect finishing touch—the right Miche.

The Lincoln for Demi Bags is your go-to choice for any special occasion.
Ultra-rich deep maroon faux leather in a diamond pattern is offset by the delicate
shine of a myriad antique brass rivet accents. Side pockets.
 
As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Lincoln comes with matching handles, key
fob and a dust cover for easy storage.
Handle length: 22.75”; width: 1”; handle drop: 11.5”

Carmel ~ Classic Luxe Shell, September 2012 - Retired


Carmel 
(Retired & Sold Out)

Classic Shell / Luxe Pricing
The Carmel for Classic Bags is a class act through and through!
The perfect accessory when you want to dress to impress!

You're sure to fall in love with her deep matte maroon faux leather
with diamond stitching and multiple antique brass stud detail that mesh
perfectly to create a look that's both rich and stylish.
End pockets add a finishing touch.

As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Carmel comes with matching
handles, key fob, and a dust cover for easy storage.

Handle length 22.75"; width 1"; Handle drop 11.5"

Lucerne ~ Classic Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)



Lucerne

Classic Shell / Luxe Pricing

The Lucerne Shell for Classic Bags features a cool shade of chromium
grey soft faux leather accented by oversized stud and grommet detailing in
various metallic colors. End-pocket storage is the ideal finishing touch.
Lucerne is playful and flirtatious and is as at home at a bistro lunch in
Paris as she is on a stroll down the sultry streets of New Orleans at midnight.
Where will you let this stylish mademoiselle take you? As part of our Miche
Luxe Collection, Lucerne comes with matching handles, key fob and a
dust cover for easy storage.
Handle length: 22.75”; width: 1”; handle drop: 11.5”



Sedona ~ Classic Luxe Shell, September 2012 (Retired)



Sedona
Classic Shell / Luxe Pricing



Subtly-textured faux leather in deep espresso brown gives the
Sedona for Classic Bags an undeniable richness. Add in exquisite detailing: herringbone
loops  woven with antique brass chains... and you’ve got an incredible high-fashion
 look you’ll be proud to wear anywhere!
Whether you dress her up or dress her down, Sedona is sure to attract admiring comments.
End pockets. As part of our Miche Luxe Collection, Sedona
comes with matching handles featuring antique brass detailing, key fob
and a dust cover for easy storage.
Handle length: 26.25”; width: 1”; handle drop: 13”




Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Mystery Hostess Party is CLOSED!! And the WINNER is.....


Mystery Hostess Party is CLOSED... And the winner is: 
Vanessa B. from Portland, Oregon!! 
YAY!!! Congratulations!! 

Thank you to all that participated... I can't wait to do the next one, which will be around the end of Nov/beginning of Dec... just in time for the holiday season ;)

Wednesday, July 25, 2012