Lifestyle

  • Autumn in Chadds Ford

    Fall in Chadds Ford unveils a breathtaking tapestry of natural beauty that never fails to ignite my creative spark. As the leaves don their vibrant autumn hues and the landscape transforms into a symphony of warm tones, I find endless inspiration in the rustic charm of this lovely region that I am thrilled to call home. In this article, I invite you to join me on a colorful journey, exploring how the seasonal wonders of the area have woven their magic into the very fabric of my creations, each piece a testament to the enduring allure of Chadds Ford during autumn's embrace.

  • Summer in Chadds Ford

    Summer in Chadds Ford has so much to offer both residents and visitors alike! Whether I'm enjoying enjoying a leisurely walk with my grandchildren by the tranquil banks of the Brandywine River, marveling at the vibrant colors of gardens and wildflowers in full bloom, or soaking up the rich culture of our nearby communities, I absolutely love seeing our region abuzz with the excitement of the warmer months. In this article, I wanted to share a bit more about my favorite summertime activities here in Chadds Ford and the Brandywine Valley. 
  • The Beauty of Daisies

    Daisies, with their simple yet enchanting beauty, hold a special place in my heart. My admiration for these delicate yet hardy flowers has led me to create a collection that celebrates their timeless elegance, simple beauty, and remarkable persistence. My newest botanical keepsakes aim to bring the beauty of daisies to life, allowing wearers to carry a touch of nature's enchantment wherever they go. I wanted to share a bit more about these pieces and my love of daisies with you in this guide!
  • 6 End-of-Year Teacher Gift Ideas

    If you are looking for the perfect present for a special teacher in your life, consider a piece of nature-inspired jewelry: the wisdom of the owl, the joy of the hummingbird, the focus of the bee, and the beautiful music of nature all feature prominently in my collection, and any number of my keepsakes would make a wonderful gift. In this article, I wanted to share some of my suggestions for special end-of-year keepsakes.
  • Local Artist Spotlight: Donna Melton

    The local artists of the Brandywine Valley have been a great inspiration for me as a jewelry maker. To pay homage to the talented illustrators and painters who live in our area, I have decided to feature some of my favorite local artists here at Chadds Ford Jewelry. When considering which influential artists to highlight, my first thoughts went immediately to local illustrator and friend Donna Melton. Donna, who creates beautiful watercolor illustrations, has been a staple in Chester County for decades. In this article, I want to share a little bit about Donna and her incredible works of art.
  • 4 Places for Outdoor Fun With Kids in the Brandywine Valley

    Walking through my garden this morning, I was startled by a few mischievous rabbits that popped out of my newly-planted vegetable patch. This made me smile, as it reminded me of the way my grandchildren like to play outside and hide in my garden too! Do you have any rambunctious youngsters in your life? If so, come on down to my neck of the woods here in the Brandywine Valley, and check out these four attractions that are sure to keep your favorite kiddos busy for hours!
  • How to Get Your Garden Ready for Planting

    May is a great time to start planting your garden, as the weather is warmer and the ground has thawed out from winter. I have so enjoyed being back in the sunshine and getting my hands dirty as I prepare my garden beds for new plantings. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this article offers some of my favorite planting tips to help you get started this month.
  • The Birds of Chadds Ford

    As a nature enthusiast and jewelry designer, I have always been fascinated by the intricate patterns and colors of our resident and visiting birds; from the vibrant Northern Cardinal to the delicate Ruby-throated Hummingbird, many of our local species have served as a constant source of creativity for my jewelry making process. In this article, I wanted to share a bit about some of my favorite Chadds Ford birds that have inspired many of my favorite designs in the Sand Birdie & Friends Collection, which is available in the shop today!
  • 5 Important Tips for Camping

    Camping is an exciting and fulfilling outdoor activity that allows us to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. In this article, I'll share some tips and tricks to help you plan and execute a successful camping trip. I have learned so much about what it means to be prepared over the years! Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, these tips will help you make the most of your adventure and enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest.
  • 6 Style Tips for Spring

    Spring is a time of renewal and rejuvenation, and what better way to embrace the season than by updating your wardrobe with some fresh spring styles? Whether you’re into bold and bright colors or prefer a more subtle and sophisticated look, there are plenty of ways to incorporate the latest fashion trends into your spring wardrobe. In this article, we discuss six tips that can help you get your style spring-ready.
  • Parks & Preserves Around the Brandywine Valley

    So many of the pieces I've created for Chadds Ford Jewelry have been inspired by scenery I have experienced while exploring the Brandywine Valley and our surrounding areas. In this article, I wanted to share five of my favorite local hiking spots with you and also show you some photos of the jewelry these magical places have inspired me to create. If you would like add a piece of my nature-inspired landscape jewelry to your collection, shop the Landscapes collection today!
  • How to Style Nature Jewelry in Spring

    Springtime is the perfect season to wear nature-inspired jewelry. From floral motifs to animal-inspired designs, these pieces can add a touch of whimsy and charm to any outfit. However, styling nature jewelry for various occasions can be a bit challenging. Here are some of my favorite tips to help you style your nature jewelry for different events this spring.