Bazant Unique Adornments: Eco and Ethical Jewelry: Toronto Jewelry Designer Lara Bazant

Lara Bazant featured in the Toronto Star, and welcomes new fashion and art to the studio

2011-12-31T10:30:00.000-08:00

I'm definitely ending 2011 on a high note, and starting 2012 off right! Today a half page feature in the Toronto Star newspaper was released about Bazant Unique Adornments. In three days I am traveling to the coast of Ecuador. When I return I'll be sure to hold an open house event with my two new studio mates Fashion Takes Action (North America's premier eco fashion association) and Sara Aharon (a gifted photographer and painter). I'm super excited about all the new creative energy coming into my space in the Distillery District! We'll have an entirely new setup in the showroom with international landscape photography, abstract watercolors, beautiful clothing, shoes and scarves from some of Canada's top eco designers, and of course a wide array of my unique jewels. Feel free to pop by the studio while I'm away and say hello to Sara, Kelly and Sarah (yes, that's right - there are two Sarahs). To book appointments and classes with me in February, March and April, send an email to info@bazant.ca and I gladly will slot you in. I'll be periodically checking the internet, but unable to fulfill online orders until I get back in the studio on February 3rd. Happy 2012!

Ending 2011 a bang - wholesale orders complete!

2011-12-27T13:50:00.000-08:00

I'm working through the holidays to prepare for a month away. I'll be in Ecuador for the entire month of January, so I've really had to buckle down to complete my Spring 2012 wholesale orders. Here's a small glimpse of what one new store at Yonge and Eglinton in Toronto will be featuring this spring:

Bazant Unique Adornments 'Jumble' convertible bracelets in green, blue, pink, purple and brown

Bazant Unique Adornments coconut shell rings in a variety of colors and sizes

Bazant Unique Adornments 'Bellavia' necklaces in pink, blue, green and red

Bazant Unique Adornments famous 'Eco Cluster' detachable pendants in a variety of colors

If you are a retailer and would like to order some of these beautiful, unique eco baubles for your shop this Spring, please check out my wholesale linesheet on Trunkt, and send me an email. I will be in touch with you the first week of February.

Antique Ring with Custom Amethyst Cut and Re-Set

2011-12-23T11:30:00.000-08:00

My first time working with a stone cutter! For this project, I worked closely with a local stone-cutter on designing an emerald-cut Rose de France Amethyst to replace a lost stone in a sentimental antique ring. Here is the ring before:

Antique gold ring before custom setting: two claws broken and missing stone

And here it is after!

Antique gold ring after custom setting:
emerald cut rose de france amethyst - side view

Antique gold ring after custom setting:
emerald cut rose de france amethyst - front view

Antique gold ring after custom setting:
emerald cut rose de france amethyst - bottom view

I am so excited about this project and can't wait to start doing more like this next year. In the past, I have mostly worked with costume jewelry, but now I am venturing into the world of fine jewelry! All custom and ethical of course. No blood diamonds here!

Karen Franzen and Friends Holiday Sale 2011

2011-12-06T12:14:00.000-08:00

I'll be away from the studio this weekend, but you can come and visit me at Karen Franzen's studio! So much great work to enjoy in a range of prices to fit every budget!

New Rings!

2011-11-27T13:21:00.000-08:00

Rings by Bazant: Holiday 2011.
Clockwise from upper left: wooden rectangles, 1950's cuban pesos, vintage pressed glass, coconut shell.

Holiday Open House December 3-4, 2011

2011-11-27T09:13:00.000-08:00

Shop local for the holidays! Give the gift of love with artisan jewelry handcrafted in the heart of Toronto's Distillery District from exotic materials of global influence. On December 3rd and 4th from noon until 6:00 pm Lara Bazant will hold her annual holiday open studio show and sale. Sip on a cup of cozy cider while enjoying all the beautiful, original designs that Bazant is known for.

WHAT: Bazant Unique Adornments Holiday Open House
WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, December 3 & 4, Noon - 6:00 pm
WHERE: Bazant's studio in the Distillery District: 55 Mill street, Building #74, Studio 202. MAP
FEATURING: $20 OFF ALL STATEMENT NECKLACES. $5 OFF ANY SECOND PAIR OF EARRINGS.
NOT TO MENTION: This event coincides with the opening weekend of the magical Distillery Toronto Christmas Market!

Let the holiday magic begin! New work from Bazant.

2011-11-17T17:51:00.000-08:00

Each November my stock begins to run low from filling fall orders and I embark on the design and production of fresh new pieces for holiday shopping. Here's a little preview of what's in store for you this holiday season at studio #202. First off, I've created a whole new set of Uganda inspired 4-way necklaces in purple, black, pale green and deep blue.

Bazant Unique Adornments Uganda-inspired 4-Way convertible necklace handcrafted in sterling silver with vintage and fair trade stones from Europe, South East Asia and South America. One of a kind.

Since earrings are so popular these days, I've filled up my racks with all sorts of styles - long and short, hoop and hook, simple and stunning to bold and beautiful.

Bazant Unique Adornments sterling silver hoop earrings with vintage Czech crystals.

Bazant Unique Adornments sterling silver hook earrings with vintage Czech glass.

I've also added a couple of new pieces to the jumble collection. Here's a nice juicy red one for you:

Bazant Unique Adornments Jumble three-strand convertible bracelet/necklace in orange and red tones. Handcrafted in sterling silver with vintage and fair trade beads from Europe, South East Asia, Africa and South America

There's so much more too see! Come and take a look for yourself. My Distillery District studio and showroom is open Friday through Sunday 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Bazant's Best of T.O

2011-11-06T10:42:00.000-08:00

Lara Bazant's Best of Toronto

While riding the streetcar to the studio today I went back and forth between gazing out the window at the beautiful orangey-red Toronto autumn and reading the "Best of T.O" article in NOW magazine. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little disappointed every year when they come out with this list. It often includes a lot of big box stores and brand names that everyone already knows about. What about all the amazing indie biz? Well, I've decided to compile my own list of favorites that includes a few well known, but mostly not super famous things I appreciate about the city I live in.

Unique Scarves: Leah Bazian

Knitted Fingerless Gloves: Millicent Vee

Comfortable, Long Lasting and Very Cute Underwear: The Candi Factory

Eco-friendly clothing: Chartreuse Style

Natural Bath and Body Products: The Big Carrot Holistic Dispensary

Do It Yourself Trail Mix: Better Bulk

Reading Recipes/Browsing Cookbooks: Book City

Fresh Ingredients for Cooking: J erry’s Supermarket

Exercise – Yoga: Moksha Yoga Danforth

Exercise – Other: Classical Stretch

Beer: Mill Street Brewery

Fried Calamari: Pure Spirits Oyster House

Carrot Cake: 7 West

Chicken Shawarma: Liberty Shawarma

Decent Health Care: Women’s College Hospital Family Practice

November classes! Re-design your heirlooms for the holidays.

2011-11-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

Have fun re-designing your old jewelry in Bazant's unique jewelry classes

A pile of unworn costume jewelry is transformed into beautiful, unique, wearable pieces

A piece of jewelry can hold memories that can either sit in a jewelry box or be re-born as a beautiful, modern piece that can have a new use for yourself or as a gift. I take my budding designers through the jewelry making experience to create a personalized piece that will bring new life to old memories.

In this three hour workshop for a group of five to seven, I introduce the core principles of jewelry design. Each participant will be deconstructing and reconstructing an old piece of jewelry by using studio tools and basic wire techniques. Participants will take home one or more completed pieces, and should bring along their own costume jewelry to reconstruct, keeping in mind that beads, stones, chains or beaded jewelry are ideal. No previous experience is necessary.You'll be amazed at what you can create with a few pieces of old jewelry and your own two hands! Cost: $59 per person including HST.

UPCOMING DATES (open for registration)

Thursday, November 10 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm OR
Thursday November 17 - 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Classes will take place in my studio in the Distillery Case Goods Warehouse. In honor of the one year anniversary of September 11 and my connection to New York City, $1 of every sale from November through December will be donated to FOS11 (Families of September 11) - a non profit organization that provides advocacy and awareness about the effects of terrorism and public trauma, and reaches out to victims of terror worldwide.

Email info@bazant.ca to reserve your spot. In order to give plenty of individual attention, space is limited to seven participants per class.Registration closes two business days before class. (The Tuesday prior at 5:00 pm).

ALSO OFFERED:

Private parties
Grab four to six friends and book your own private class. Great for birthdays, showers and bachelorettes, or just to get together and have fun!

Corporate events
Step outside the box and learn something new! Goal completion element included upon request.
Bookings available on weekday afternoons and evenings.

Artist Studio in Distillery HistoricDistrict (Downtown Toronto)

2011-10-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

In just over a month I will have space available in my Distillery District studio! This is an amazing opportunity for established artists/craftspeople - particularly those who are on the Artscape waiting list! Below is an announcement and some images. Pass it on!

$567 / 250ft² - Artist Studio in Distillery HistoricDistrict (Downtown Toronto)

Beautiful, inspiring 806 SqFt shared corner studio space available mid-December on second floor of Artscape Case Goods Warehouse in the Distillery Historic District. Bright south east exposure. One or two spots available depending on space requirements of candidates. Space can be configured according to individual needs. Rent includes all taxes, utilities, heat, air conditioning, wireless internet and shared storage closet. Front of studio is used as a shared showroom/ gallery to display and sell work. Only established, serious, working artists and craftspeople. Fashion, acrylic painters, illustrators, photographers, ceramics and textile artists all welcome. Eco/ethical angle is an asset. No jewelers please. Current sharer is leaving to open her own store! This is a great opportunity for growth. Please send photos of your work or a link to your website. Contact Lara Bazant: info@bazant.ca

Studio #202 in Distillery District Case Goods Warehouse now has two openings available

Studio comes with 200 SqFt of showroom space for you to display and sell your work

Stylist Wears Bazant Custom Piece on Marilyn Denis

2011-10-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

Remember the most recent custom piece I did? To refresh your memory, it was a cluster pendant that I made from an heirloom cameo.

The recipient of this wonderful gift was makeup and hair stylist Ashley Readings - and she wore the piece while demonstrating braids on the Marilyn Denis show today! It's a bit hard to catch at times since Ashley is standing behind the models to do their hair, but near the end of the segment you get a full view. Great job on the braids Ashley! Click on the screen shot below to watch the video:

Beach Studio Tour - Fall 2011

2011-10-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Since its humble beginnings in 1994, The Beach Studio Tour has grown into a vibrant collective of high-calibre Canadian artists who work in a variety of disciplines. This fall's selection includes painting, metal sculpture, photography, ceramics, printmaking, glass, textiles, jewelry and handbags.

Toronto's original cottage country, rich with fall colours is the backdrop for this longest running studio tour in Toronto. Visitors are welcomed into 14 homes & studios, all located in The Beach to view & purchase original art & hand made designs. Each studio will offer refreshments and a prize draw.

This fall Bazant Unique Adornments will once again be graciously hosted by photographer Julie Clark at 166 Bellefair Avenue.

Hours: Fri. Oct. 21 6 pm - 9 pm
Sat. Oct. 22 10 am - 6 pm
Sun. Oct. 23 11am - 6 pm

Tour maps showing the 14 locations are available on the website: www.beachstudiotour.ca,

Victorian Cameo Gets a Modern Makeover

2011-10-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

Two weeks before her daughter Ashley's 25th birthday Margaret came to my studio with a Victorian cameo brooch that had been in the family for several generations. She wanted it made into a necklace as a gift for Ashley. I asked Margaret about her daughter's interests and style. She told me that Ashley is a makeup and hair stylist, and an independent woman with an excellent sense of humor. She also strongly suggested that I use silver, as Ashley prefers it. Here is a photo of the cameo before the re-design:

Heirloom Victorian cameo brooch before Bazant re-design

And here is the necklace I created out of it for Ashley:

Custom detachable cluster necklace with heirloom cameo created by Lara Bazant

I removed the cameo from its original brass setting and re-set it into a silver vintage brooch backing after sawing off the pin. I then proceeded to transform it into one of my famous "cluster pendants" and included charms that represent a makeup compact, classic hair style, and creative inspiration. After that I made a nice chunky 30" chain to go with the pendant - for an added bonus I made it just long enough to be doubled up into a choker. What a wonderful gift from mother to daughter.

Ladies Live It Up With Bazant Unique Adornments!

2011-09-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

Bazant Unique Adornments handcrafted convertible Jumble bracelets

Last Saturday night the balloons and wine were out, the lights were dimmed and a feeling of magic filled the air at the one year anniversary celebration of my studio in the Distillery District. A full room of lovely ladies enjoyed henna art by Hennafication, makeup tips from DaLish Cosmetics, and received $20 off on their exclusive Bellavia Collection purchases. Special thanks to Julie Clark who captured the evening on camera. Here's a little glimpse of the event:

Studio #202 at the Case Goods Warehouse of the Distillery District.
Home of Bazant Unique Adornments.

Lara Bazant's reflection is caught in a studio mirror. Bazant is wearing one of her signature Bellavia Necklaces.

Joanne Rumstein-Ellis arrives and sets up a henna station next to Bazant's rare international bead collection

Lara Bazant gets hennafied by Hennification at her one year anniversary in the Distillery District

Eager shoppers arrive and claim their pieces at Bazant's one year anniversary party

Bazant provides materials for guests to create wine charms at her one year anniversary party

Guests enjoy shopping for Bazant's popular eco cluster pendants

The story of the Bellavia collection

Bazant Unique Adornments handcrafted Kazuri ceramic bracelets

Bazant Unique Adornments coconut shell rings - 50% off!

Bazant Unique Adornments handcrafted sterling silver earrings with vintage and fair trade beads

If you couldn't make it to the party, you still have a chance to catch a glimpse of the new additions to the Bellavia collection at Nuit Blanche this Saturday. Here's a little blurb to get you excited:

The colorful dynamism and unorthodox materials that jewelry artisan Lara Bazant uses in her exclusive Bellavia collection suggest a nod to Italian Futurist fashion, while simultaneously demonstrating a re-invention of the past. During Culture Days and Nuit Blanche, visit Bazant in studio #202 of the Distillery District's Case Goods Warehouse to see how memories are reconstructed in modern jewelry, and get a taste of Lara's upcoming November workshops on modernization and re-design of your sentimental vintage pieces.

GIRL'S NIGHT OUT - You're Invited

2011-09-15T11:32:00.000-07:00

We're throwing a fabulous "girls night out" shopping party in honor of our anniversary at the Distillery. So bring a friend and enjoy an evening of inspiration and style!

WHAT: Bazant's Anniversary Party - Girls night out!
WHEN: Saturday September 24, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
WHERE: Bazant's studio in the Distillery District: 55 Mill street, Building #74, Studio 202. MAP
FEATURING: The official launch of the Bellavia collection - a series of exclusive necklaces inspired by and dedicated to lasting friendships. For one night only you get $20 off any Bellavia necklace.

Other girly fun includes henna art and makeup by DaLish cosmetics.
RSVP: to info@bazant.ca By Wednesday September 21st.

Custom Collaboration Complete

2011-09-10T14:41:00.000-07:00

Remember Rosa? I'll never forget it - it was one of my most challenging projects - completed for the lovely Claire in 2009 just before I traveled to Uganda. Well to my delight Claire recently came back into my life by attending a couple of jewelry recycling workshops. In the first workshop Claire arrived equipped with a big box of filigree and other trinkets. I helped her figure out a meaningful design to incorporate a few of the pieces together. During the second workshop she asked me to commission a couple of pieces for her from a necklace and earrings set that she started and was having trouble finishing. The necklace was nearly complete and just needed a few beads and chain to "connect the dots" so to speak, but the earrings required a total overhaul. Here is what I ended up with:

Bazant completes custom filigree necklace

Bazant's custom transformation of vintage earrings

This just in! Colorful cluster earrings.

2011-09-03T14:49:00.000-07:00

I've just come up with a new earring design that combines my classic triangles with my cluster pendants. Each stunning pair is meticulously handcrafted in sterling silver and vintage beads. What do you think? I think it's like a little party hanging off your ear!

Triangular shaped dangling cluster earrings by eco and ethical Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant

Another Successful Corporate Jewelry Workshop

2011-09-02T14:10:00.000-07:00

I just spent the past two evenings at 55 University Avenue teaching my jewelry reconstruction workshop to the lovely ladies of Haworth, Brigholme, and Stanton Architecture. Everyone had a blast and left wearing their beautiful new creations. Here are a few pics of the event.

Bazant arrives at Haworth and begins setting up tools, materials and instructions

The ladies of Haworth, Brigholme and Stanton enjoy sushi and wine while crafting up their reconstructed jewelry

Participants in Bazant's corporate jewelry reconstruction workshop proudly wear their creations

Interested in hosting a corporate workshop or private party/event? Contact Lara Bazant for details.

Custom Necklaces Created for Two Sisters from Mother's Sentimental Stash

2011-08-20T09:49:00.000-07:00

When Faith arrived at the house of her mother who had recently passed away, she found many little boxes and baskets filled with years worth of costume jewelry. She gathered what she could manage and brought it home - thinking she or someone she knew might be able to use it. A few months later I ran into Faith at an event and she expressed that she would like to donate her mother's old jewelry to my collection of vintage finds. I was honored, and offered to create something special for Faith and her sister from a few of the old pieces. She then visited me in the studio, equipped with a heavy bag full of all sorts of trinkets. Here's a small glimpse of what she brought (there were three more piles!):

Vintage chain and filigree - to be recycled into Bazant Unique Adornments

After asking Faith about the style and interests of herself and her sister Rebecca, I dug through the piles and created the following pieces entirely from reconstruction - no new materials were used.

Necklace constructed entirely from recycled sentimental costume jewelry
Designed with wearer's colors and style in mind

Necklace and earrings set constructed entirely from recycled sentimental costume jewelry
Designed with wearer's colors and style in mind

Newly Inspired: Necklaces, Bracelets and Rings by bazant

2011-08-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

Bellavia neclace (long) in green. Hand forged sterling silver bars and ethically sourced exotic beads

Bellavia neclace (short) in blue. Hand forged sterling silver chain and ethically sourced exotic beads

Bellavia neclace (short) in red. Hand forged sterling silver chain and ethically sourced exotic beads

Pressed glass and coconut shell rings. Handcrafted with sterling silver.

Aurora Borealis Elements: Fire. Convertible necklace, bracelet, pendant.
Handcrafted in sterling silver and ethically sourced exotic beads

Aurora Borealis Elements: Air. Convertible necklace, bracelet, pendant.
Handcrafted in sterling silver and ethically sourced exotic beads

Uganga inspired 4-way necklace: Francesca. Handcrafted in sterling silver and ethically sourced exotic beads.

Jumble - convertible bracelet/necklace (shown as bracelet).
Handcrafted in sterling silver and ethically sourced exotic beads.

Custom Bridal Design with Oxidized Brass and Re-worked Vintage Faux Pearls

2011-07-27T11:15:00.000-07:00

Deanne came to me with a classic six strand graduated necklace of creamy faux pearls that was broken in several places. It held sentimental value, and she wished for it to be transformed into a wedding piece for her upcoming nuptials in August. We discussed the option of re-stringing the piece back to its original design with stronger cord, but once I saw photos of Deanne's wedding dress, I knew that a necklace wouldn't work. The dress featured a sparkling waistband which meant a necklace would be too much. She also mentioned that she would be wearing a bespoke fascinator created by acclaimed Toronto milliner David Dunkley, and that if possible, she would like a smaller version of the new piece to be created for her 10-year-old daughter who was to be her maid of honor at the wedding. Deanne was open to design suggestions, but mentioned that she was fond of the rhinestone connector that held the strands of the original necklace together. Based on using this connector, I sketched out a thumbnail of a multi-strand bracelet with matching "waterfall" style drop earrings. Deanne approved this design and put her trust in me completely. The only request was to create a vintage look with the metal. With her sensitivity to base metals (nickle etc.) this was no easy feat. Luckily I had planned a trip to New York, and with some persistant searching around the garment district, I was able to find nickle-free oxidized brass. Here are the before and after shots of Deanne's custom bridal jewelry.

Before: Six strand vintage pearl necklace (broken)

After: Custom twelve strand graduated bracelet with oxidized brass, faux pearls and vintage mirrored crystals

After: Cascading "waterfall" earrings with oxidized brass and sterling silver stud backings

After: half-size version of wedding bracelet created for maid of honor

After: Half-size version of waterfall earrings created for maid of honor

Return to New York City

2011-07-24T10:48:00.000-07:00

Building Tops in the Financial District of New York City

Having lived my formative early twenties in New York, the Big Apple holds a particularly warm spot in my heart. The minute I step out of Grand Central Station I immediately sense the pulse and smell the ambition. I've returned a few times since moving to Toronto in 1998, but this time was different. I explored areas I had never been before. I met up with old friends I hadn't seen in years thanks to the magical Facebook, and I found inspiration around every corner. I also had the opportunity to visit a secret vintage warehouse to source some of the most unbelievably unique beads I have ever encountered - but that part must remain a secret until the "big reveal" of my new work.

Visiting New York is a different experience from living there. I appreciate the architecture a lot more. I "look up". I sit in colorful delis and watch the world go by. I openly talk to strangers. The one thing I did back then that I still do now is walk at a breakneck pace while blaring the "soundtrack to my life" in my headphones. Used to be a Sony Walkman....now it's an ipod. For your viewing pleasure, here are a few photo highlights of the trip.

Fulton Street Subway Station - Near the South Street Seaport, New York City

Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge - view from 25th floor of 99 John Street, Manhattan

Windows - Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Brownstones and tree-lined streets. Cobble Hill, Brooklyn

Artist displays his work on Spring Street. Soho, New York City.

Windows on Broome Street. Soho, New York City

Little Italy, NYC.

Village Dream on St. Marks Place - where I got my nose pierced in 1996

Churning butter on a bike - Union Square Farmer's market

Tiled art on the walls of the Essex Street Subway station

Outdoor Food Court - Financial District NYC

Former police headquarters (transformed into apartments). Lower Manhattan.

Glimpse of a chandelier inside the old police station

The highlight of the trip was a reunion with a few of my former NYU/ Tisch buddies. Here we are at O'Flaherty's on 46th - the evening before my departure:

NYU buddies: Mark Malkoff, Lara Bazant, Ethan Aranoff, Holly Buczek, Bellavia Mauro, Marcy Girt, Howard Emmanuel

And of course I had to visit my old place of employment - Times Square (cue music from The Lion King)

Lara Bazant in Times Square New York City

Alas, after three days of go-go-go it was time to pack up and return to Toronto. While flying via Porter Airlines, I encountered a breathtaking aerial view of Niagara Falls, and upon sunset was once again greeted by the CN tower. As much as I love New York, it's always good to come home.

Aerial view of Niagara Falls

View of Toronto skyline from island airport

Yonge Street Media Features Bazant

2011-07-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

Jewelry Designer Lara Bazant at her Distillery District Studio

Yonge Street Media details the story of how my jewels came to be! Click here to read it.

Vintage Inspiration

2011-07-02T15:43:00.000-07:00

Vintage jewelry donated by Caroline Williams to eco and ethical jeweller Lara Bazant

In addition to sourcing a multitude of unique beads via fair trade, I absolutely love taking apart vintage pieces to incorporate the elements into unique my silver jewelry. Naturally I tell people about this all the time and occasionally someone will drop by my studio with a mother lode of old pieces that they simply no longer wish to own! A couple of days ago Caroline Williams of Spark Coaching visitied me in the Distillery with a big bag of her old costume jewelry.. Looks like I'm going to have lots of amazing materials to create my fall/winter collection!

Jewelry Recycling Classes with Eco and Ethical Jeweller Lara Bazant

2011-06-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

Student of Lara Bazant's Jewelry Recycling class shows off her handmade creations

Last Wednesday was a whole lot of fun for me and a great new experience for the finance team at DDB Canada. I held a three hour workshop in my Distillery District studio and taught seven eager ladies how to redesign their old costume jewelry into something stylish and wearable. We had a blast! Here are a few pics I snapped along the way.

Lara Bazant's jewelry recycling classes begin with an overview of the principles of design

Jewelry recycling class with Lara Bazant - stations are set up with tools and findings

The finance team at DDB Canada bonds over recycling their old jewelry

Student recycles her old jewelry into a stretchy bangle

Student recycles her old jewelry into a copper colored pendant necklace with beads and chain

Looks pretty fun doesn't it? Contact Lara Bazant to book your corporate class or party.

Introducing Chartreuse Style

2011-06-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

I am super excited about my newest retailer - eco shop Chartreuse Style at the foot of Roncesvalles. I found out about it through ethical deal and when I approached the owner Mary-Ann, she agreed it was a perfect fit. The selection of breathable, classic pieces in organic cotton in this minimal-chic store is outstanding. Can you tell I'm a fan? I bought a dress right away. Here are a few photos to give you an idea (courtesy of Blog T.O)

Exterior of Chartreuse Style - eco clothing and ethical jewelry retailer in Toronto Canada

Interior of Chartreuse Style - eco clothing and ethical jewelry retailer in Toronto Canada

Chartreuse Style in Toronto Canada carries a beautiful selection of eco fashions and ethical jewelry

Chartreuse Style stocks Bazant's Eco Cluster Detachable Pendants, Coconut Shell Rings, Coconut Shell Earrings, and three types of Classic Silver Earrings. Get on in there and have a look!

Eco Cluster Detachable Pendants. Eco jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments (photo by Corrado Caruso)

Coconut Shell Rings. Eco jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments (photo by Corrado Caruso)

New Earring Photos

2011-06-12T14:46:00.000-07:00

Classic Hoop Earrings. Ethical Jewlry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Classic Rectangle Earrings. Ethical Jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Classic Triangle Earrings. Ethical Jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Brushed Silver "Diamond' Earrings: Ethical Jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Waterfall Brushed Silver Earrings. Ethical Jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

As you may or may not remember - I put together a professional photoshoot back in March. I love the results, but need some artistic and detailed shots for online sales. The photos above are my attempt at getting re-acquainted with my camera after it was out for repairs for six weeks. Which one do you like the best?

Summer Has Arrived at Toronto's Distillery District

2011-06-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Building #42 - Rack House D at Toronto's Distillery Historic District

Flower stall in Tankhouse Lane at Toronto's Historic Distillery District

Flowers in a planter at the Pure Spirits Oyster House in Toronto's Distillery Historic District

Patio at The Boiler House in Toronto's Distillery Historic District

And there's much more than this! You've got to get down here and see it. And while your at it drop by my studio and say hi!

Pink Mafia Ethical Style Features Bazant's Necklaces

2011-06-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

Pink Mafia, Toronto's hippest style blog, recently put together a super fun and funky photoshoot featuring the top designers on Ethical Ocean. Two bazant pieces are featured - the Jumble necklace/bracelet, and the 4-Way Beads Necklace. Check it out!

Pink Mafia model wears Tunic Dress by Kali and Jumble necklace/bracelet by Bazant Unique Adornments

Pink Mafia model wears Hostess Dress by Device and 4-Way Beads necklace ( as a pendant) by Bazant

Summer Jewelry Recycling Workshops at the Distillery Historic District Toronto

2011-05-21T11:17:00.000-07:00

ECO FRIENDLY BEGINNER JEWELRY WORKSHOPS WITH LARA BAZANT
Get inspired at bazant's beautiful studio in the heart of Toronto's Distillery Historic District

Class #1
Creating jewelry from recycled magazines
In this three hour hands-on workshop you'll learn how to make three types of beads from recycling magazines, then apply basic wire work techniques to assemble the beads into your very own jewelry. Materials, tools, written instructions and source list are provided...all you need to bring are any old magazines or wrapping paper you have kicking around the house. You get to take home the jewelry you create. $52 per person +HST

Examples of Lara Bazant's Recycled Magazine Jewelry

Class #2
Jewelry Reconstruction
Redesign your old, unworn costume jewelry into something beautiful, current and wearable! In this three hour workshop you will learn principles of design, deconstruction, and wire work techniques to assemble a brand new piece you'll be proud of. Materials, tools, written instructions and sources list are provided...all you need to bring are some old pieces of costume jewelry - beaded and/or chain pieces work best. You can even bring old coins! You get to take home the jewelry you create. $52 per person +HST

Example of Lara Bazant's Jewlery Reconstruction

UPCOMING PUBLIC CLASS DATES
Thursday July21 6:00pm-9:00pm - Class #1: Creating jewelry from recycled magazines
Thursday July 28 6:00pm-9:00pm - Class #2: Jewelry Reconstruction
Wednesday August 10 6:00pm-9:00pm - Class #1: Creating jewelry from recycled magazines
Wednesday August 24 6:00pm-9:00pm - Class #2: Jewelry Reconstruction

Classes will take place in Lara Bazant's studio in the Distillery Case Goods Warehouse.
Email info@bazant.ca to reserve your spot. Space is limited to seven participants per class. Registration closes two business days before class. Bookmark bazant's google calendar for classes schedule .

ALSO OFFERED:
Corporate team building
Step outside the office and learn something new together! Bookings available on weekday afternoons. Check out how much fun the ladies of DDB Canada had recycling their jewelry.
Private parties
Grab some friends and book your own private class on a Friday or Saturday night. Great for birthdays, showers, bachelorettes, or just a good old fashioned ladies night out!

To learn more about Lara Bazant and Bazant Unique Adornments, visit http://www.bazant.ca

To see more examples of bazant's custom work reconstructing costume jewelry see the custom work section of this blog

Beach Studio Tour Wrap Up

2011-05-07T12:28:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who made the Spring 2011 Beach Studio Tour a huge success. Biggest thanks to Julie Clark who graciously hosted me at her home studio. Julie's vibrant photography and my colorful jewelry were a great match! Julie's passion for her work is evident, and she has an amazing talent for encaustics (painting with wax on wood-mounted photos) which garnered lots of attention from show-goers. Here is a selection of photos that Julie took through the weekend.

Julie Clark encaustic photos and Bazant's "As You Wish" convertible statement necklace

Bazant's coconut shell earrings

Bazant's coconut shell rings

Bazant's detachable letter and zodiac pendant necklaces

Lara Bazant with her Spring 2011 4-Way Necklaces and Bellavia Necklaces

Julie Clark Photography and Bazant Unique Adornments

Julie Clark and Lara Bazant

Beach Studio Tour This Weekend

2011-04-28T08:14:00.000-07:00

Lara Bazant participated in the Spring 2011 Beach Studio Tour

Come and check out all of Bazant`s Spring 2011 adornments alongside photographer Julie Clark at
166 Bellefair Avenue this weekend: April 29 - May 1st. Lots of great gift ideas for Mother`s Day.
Hours of operation are Friday 6-9 pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-6pm.

Ethical Ocean's Brenna D Wears Bazant Necklace on CH Live

2011-04-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

Ethical Ocean - an online retailer of ethical products, was recently on Dragon's Den and won! On this segment of CH morning Brenna Donoghue talks about the experience on the Den, while wearing Bazant Unique Adornments Sustain Bib necklace. Click on the image to check it out!

Bazant Featured in Ethical Ocean's Mother's Day Gift Guide

2011-04-20T12:17:00.000-07:00

Both Bazant's Bellavia necklaces and Kazuri bracelets are featured in online retailer Ethical Ocean's gift guide for Mother's day.

Lara Bazant's Bellavia Necklace featued in Ethical Ocean 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide

NEW Facebook Fan Page and Giveaway

2011-04-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

Facebook Fan Page for eco and ethical jewelry: Bazant Unique Adornments

Bazant has made the switch from group to official fan page on facebook. Click LIKE on the Bazant Unique Adornments Facebook Page by May 1st and you could WIN one of three pairs of classic hoop earrings

Spring Photo shoot

2011-03-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

Marcia Leeder gets her hair and makeup done by Ivy Lam for bazant's spring photoshoot

Yesterday I had the great pleasure of working with three incredibly talented women on a photo shoot for my new collections. I am super happy with how smoothly everything went, and owe a huge thanks to photographer Danijela Pruginic, model Marcia Leeder, and Makeup/Hair artist Ivy Lam.

When I moved into my Distillery District studio last September, I became extremely inspired and grounded in my own creative aesthetic. I focused on designing new collections that could be recognized as a signature bazant style. Although I've worked with photographers in the past, I have primarily taken most of the shots for my online store out of necessity to do things quickly. Teaching myself photography has been a long and arduous process, so when I approached Danijela about doing a photoshoot of my new pieces I asked her if she would also be willing to teach me a few tips on how to take my own off figure shots. She was totally open to this and highly accommodating to my needs. We met at her studio and while she took the detailed photos I needed for juried art shows she taught me how to set up the shots and control the lighting. Here's a little preview of my improvement so far:


Bazant`s Bellavia necklace in green - BEFORE photography lesson with Danijela Pruginic

Bazant`s new Bellavia necklace in green, after photography lesson with Danijela Pruginic

I`m getting better arent I? Thanks Danijela!! Pretty soon my whole online store will be updated with new shots - both on and off the model. Speaking of "model", I purposely chose a non-professional model for my photo shoot yesterday. My friend Marcia Leeder is actually a photographer too - a gifted animal photographer. Seriously, if you have pets, you should hire her! I wanted a beautiful REAL person to represent my jewelry. Someone who has travelled the world (like me!) and shares my outlook on life. Marcia and I both practice Moksha Yoga and ran into each other at a recent evolution party at the Danforth location. We consequently became friends on facebook, and when I looked through her photo albums I knew she would be the perfect model for my work. Here are some shots of yesterday's magical shoot at my studio (photos courtesy of Marcia Leeder Photography):

Marcia Leeder and Danijela Pruginic - two photographers in striped shirts - ready for bazant's photoshoot

Clothing and jewelry is matched up and laid out for bazant's spring photoshoot

Marcia Leeder in bazant's studio

Marcia Leeder wears Bazant Unique Adornments

Marcia Leeder and Lara Bazant

Marcia Leeder, Lara Bazant, Ivy Lam and Danijela Pruginic

Thank you ladies, for making my vision come to life!

Bazant Mentioned in the National Post

2011-02-19T06:24:00.000-08:00

Nathalie Atkinson of the National Post visited the studio to interview Jessica Rose and gave me a mention in the article. Click on the PDF to zoom in and read the whole thing.

Jessica Rose and Lara Bazant in the National Post

February 19 Open House

2011-02-07T08:11:00.000-08:00

Lara Bazant and Jessica Rose invite you to celebrate the development

of our beautiful Distillery District studio and showroom.

Meet the designers, raise a glass, and see what's new for spring!

Saturday, February 19, 2011 ~ 2:00 pm - 8:00 pm
The Distillery Historic District ~ Case Goods Warehouse
55 Mill Street, Building #74, Studio #202

Click here for directions and map

Bazant Featured in Ethical Ocean's Valentine's Day Gift Guide

2011-02-02T14:08:00.000-08:00

Bazant's popular Kazuri Bracelets Featured in Ethical Ocean Gift Guide. Eco and Ethical jewelry by Lara Bazant.

Behind the Scenes: In the Studio

2011-01-28T12:22:00.000-08:00

Jessica and I are working hard on our new collections. We've also been slowly building up a lovely showroom. Until now I've kept the inside of studio #202 secret. Well it's time for the big reveal! In true eco-fashion, I acquired all of my furniture second hand.

Distillery District Case Goods Warehouse - Studio #202 Showroom

Studio #202 - workbench of Jessica Rose atelier

Studio #202 - workbench of eco jewelry designer Lara Bazant

Studio #202 - office of eco jewelry designer Lara Bazant

Bazant's 2011 eco and ethical jewelry collections in progress

Studio #202 - ideas table

I'm also extremely excited about beads I've recently sourced for my new collections. I mentioned in my last entry that I sourced some fantastic beads from artisans in Grenada, Tobago, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico. Well here they are - organized into my system of small drawers

Lara Bazant sources beads from local artisans in Grenada, Tobago, St. Thomas, and San Juan Puerto Rico

In addition to this I just stopped by the studio of fellow Beach Studio Tour artist Gil Birol. She mentioned that she was interested in selling off her of recycled glass beads from the Aegean coast of Turkey because she no longer was using them. What a jackpot for me! I had been thinking about planning an overseas trip this year to source recycled glass beads, and now I am fully stocked! Gil also has some Turkish silver that I have my eye on....but I have to pace myself. :-)


Recycled glass beads from the Aegean coast, Turkey

Come by and visit us at studio #202 in the Case Goods Warehouse of the Distillery Historic District, Toronto.

Exploring the Southern Caribbean

2011-01-12T14:57:00.000-08:00

It's 2011. Many new adventures, challenges and successes await and I am excited for all of them. Here I sit in the studio - smack dab in the middle of Canadian winter - and all I can think about is the beautiful beach of Barbados. You see, my family and I went on a ten day southern Caribbean cruise over Christmas and New Years, and the intoxicating beauty of the islands and friendliness of the locals has completely taken me over. Returning to a big city covered in blankets of snow is a shock to say the least. It's time to reflect and share the most inspiring moments of the trip.

On December 24 we flew from Toronto to San Juan Puerto Rico and despite some very close calls with the airline we managed to JUST make it to the ship. At 8:30 pm we were on the balcony of our stateroom as the Celebrity Millenium set sail for Christmas Day at Sea. Our first stop was St. Maarten where we went on a jet ski tour around the island. Very adventurous and fun!

Setting sail on the Celebrity Millennium

Main lobby of the Celebrity Millennium

Bazant family in Phillipsburg St. Maarten after riding the Rhino Jet Skis

The next port was St. Lucia where we enjoyed at relaxing day at the beach and I went for an exploratory walk around the sleepy little town. I don't gamble much, but that night I won $80 on the slots at the ship casino!

St. Lucia

Lara Bazant and husband Chris Hatzopoulos on the beach at St. Lucia

St. Lucia beach house

Barbados was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. My husband Chris and I decided to skip the regular beach day and go on a snorkeling and swim with sea turtles expedition instead. What an amazing experience! We boarded a catamaran run by the friendliest dudes you will ever meet. The sounds of Bob Marley bounced over the speakers as we sailed our way through turquoise blue waters to an old shipwreck covered in coral and sea life. After snorkeling we made our way over to another gorgeous beach where we swam with huge non-captive sea turtles. Our guide threw fish for the turtles to eat and they swam right up to us! So peaceful - the way they wave their appendages and bob their heads! After that it was a party on board the catamaran as we anchored near shore and drank free flowing rum punch out on the deck. I will never forget how blue the water was that day. Breathtaking.

Barbados Port Authority

Barbados Catamaran

The beach at Bridgetown Barbados

Next stop: Grenada. First the whole family took a walk around the local spice market. This is where I found a man carving tiki shaped pendants. I bought five - I couldn't resist! It was the first authentic artisan I found on the trip and I was so happy to support the local economy because the locals in Grenada are not so well off. Why is it in the poorest of places I always find the most genuine people? I loved the people of Grenada - kind, gentle, compassionate and friendly, with a good sense of humor to boot! We enjoyed the beach in Grenada so much that the whole family got sunburned. An abundance of aloe was applied that evening.

Lara Bazant sources local artisan beads in St. George's, Grenada

Spice market in St. George's, Grenada

Scarborough, Tobago came next and we followed the same pattern as Grenada - visiting the town then the beach. The town had some great photo opportunities.

House: St. George's, Grenada

Street vendor: St. George's, Grenada

Vegetable market: St. George's, Grenada

Shortly after we arrived at the beach in Tobago it started raining. Luckily we snagged a table at a local beach restaurant just before it started to pour. This particular establishment happened to be hosting what looked like a caribbean senior citizens luncheon and it was so fun to watch them dance to the bassy music and enjoy their fried shrimp! On the way back to the ship I discovered another local artisan who carved earrings out of bark and turtle shell. Just as we were about to get back on board I spotted a dolphin! I've never seen a dolphin out of captivity before and it simply blew me away. First I saw the fin, then as I kept my eyes on it, the body emerged, and then the face. It only lasted a few seconds, but I will never forget it. It was some kind of lucky omen. No one else caught it but me.

Senoir Citizens luncheon at Pigeon Point Beach in Tobago

Lara Bazant sources beads from local artisan in Scarborough, Tobago

Spending December 31st on the island of Dominica ended the year on a perfect note. I had been told that Dominica has a fascinating rainforest, so I joined an excursion that went deep into the lush green hills to practice yoga. A little van carried a few of us up up through the tiny dirt roads into a remote hut in the middle of the rainforest. We were amongst active volcanoes and bubbling hot springs. Our yoga instructor was a native of Dominica who had recently returned after living many years in London, England and training in India. The practice that morning involved opening our awareness to our connection with nature. We worked in pairs and alone through gentle poses with the pitter patter of rain in the background.

Rooftops of Roseau, Dominica

Rain forest waterfall and hot springs in Dominica

Yoga hut at the Shangrila in Roseau, Dominica

Yoga was finished by 11:00 am so there was plenty of time to explore the island. First my mother and I bought creole spice and drinking chocolate from local vendors. We found an artisan who carved wood pendants and I spoke to him for awhile about his craft and how business has been lately. He felt inspired from the designs on my shirt and started carving shapes similar to them right away. Afterward I met up with Chris who had been walking around the port town (Rousseau) and encouraged me to go back with him and take photos. Boy, was I glad I did. The town is filled with history and culture - and it shows in the brightly painted colors of the rooftops and doorways.

Lara Bazant and local artisan in Roseau, Dominica

Roseau, Dominica

New Year's eve on the boat was a spectacular event which made me feel like a movie star! After another flawless formal dinner we danced the night away to a kick-ass live band and rang in 2011 in style with 2000 people from all over the world out on the multi level pool deck.

Lara Bazant - New Year's Eve in Celebrity Millennium formal dining room

New Year's Eve on Celebrity Millennium pool deck

January 1st was a day at sea and I finally took a well-deserved rest.

New Year's Day in Celebrity Millennium stateroom

That night the dining staff performed a magnificent procession on spiral stairwell with baked alaska, and the talented Celebrity Cruise singer/dancers performed a broadway review in the theater. I was particularly impressed with an excerpt they did from Phantom of the Opera in which two couples sang simultaneous duets of "Music of the Night" and "All I ask of You". Having studied musical theater I am quite familiar with the Weber canon and I have never seen that rendition before. It was flawless and beautiful.

New Year's Day in Celebrity Millennium theater

January 2 was our last port - St. Thomas. After realizing that "downtown" consisted almost purely of tourist trap diamond shops, we took a local taxi driver up on his offer to give us a tour of the island. Luckily I was able to find a vendor from which I was able to purchase authentic caribbean larimar.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

Lara Bazant sources authentic Caribbean Larimar from local vendor in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

After viewing the vistas of St. Thomas we stopped at a beach where we met some very tame ducks and marveled at the color of the water. It was a color we knew we wouldn't be seeing again for quite some time.

Sapphire beach, St. Thomas

That night we sat on the deck and watched the sun set over the island as the ship pulled away from its last port and headed back to San Juan.

Rainbow in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas

But the trip wasn't over just yet! My Dad was smart and booked us on a tour of old San Juan since we had time to kill before going to the airport. San Juan is definitely a place I'd like to visit again. We walked through the remains of a fort that the Spanish used to keep pirates out, then explored the old city - fashioned with European architechture and tiny streets. It was here that I found my biggest score - a bead store filled with authentic Puerto Rican artisan glass and ceramic beads!!! People, you are going to LOVE what I create with these unique baubles. I`ll definitely planning to expand the Bellavia collection, then we'll see what comes next.

Old city of San Juan, Puerto Rico

Fort San Felipe del Morro, San Juan

Cobblestone streets in the old city of San Juan, Puerto Rico

Also, I should mention that I made a pair of silver earrings that I deemed "ultra durable" and put them to the test on this trip. I wore them every day on the beach - while swimming in the ocean and snorkeling as well, and they are still shiny and good as new!! The brushed finish that I used seems to really do the trick. Once I get some decent photos taken of these puppies, they'll be up on my website for you all to get some. You won't want to go on a beach vacation without them!

Lara Bazant wearing durable silver earrings while swimming and snorkeling in Barbados

So I've returned to Toronto and am desperately trying to adjust to the weather change, but my heart is still at sea. Sailing the ocean blue, awaiting my next adventure.

ANNUAL 50% OFF SALE

2011-01-06T16:05:00.000-08:00

Don't miss this opportunity to get those Bazant Unique Adornments you always wanted - at half the price! Shop online, make an appointment at our Distillery Showroom, or visit your local retailer.

Wecoming Jessica Rose Design to Studio #202 in the Distillery

2010-12-18T13:01:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled to announce the recent addition of Jessica Rose to my Distillery District Studio. Jessica's dresses are gorgeous, timeless and flattering. She's all set up and things are looking fabulous over here! Be sure to pop by and say hi.

Fashion Takes Action Features Bazant in December Triple Stitch

2010-12-16T13:58:00.000-08:00

Eco and ethical Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant is Fashion Takes Action's featured member

Custom Scarab Necklace

2010-12-15T12:03:00.000-08:00

At my open studio celebration on November 6 Sherap Andrea Winn was strongly drawn to a scarab in the necklace I was wearing. It happened to be a very special scarab that I purchased on a trip to Cairo Egypt in 1995. I had given it to a friend in New York who kept it for more than 12 years and recently returned it to me upon visiting Toronto. It was so exciting to create a custom piece for Sherap with this scarab, knowing it had been on a journey around the world and was about to continue its travels! Sherap paid another visit to my studio and together we came up with a beautiful design that incorporated Chilean silver beads and Jasper from New Mexico. It can be worn any length from18" to 30". She loves it, and so do I.

Custom Scarab Necklace. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Custom Adjustable Scarab Necklace. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Come and See Bazant at Karen Franzen and Friends Holiday Show This weekend

2010-12-09T11:56:00.000-08:00

Lara and Julie become Bazant and Buffalo Lucy

2010-12-05T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's snowing outside - big fat chunks of slow romantic snow. I'm sitting here in my studio with holiday spirit buzzing all around me at the Toronto Christmas Market. Feelings of warmth and happiness pour in as I remember all the glorious people who have touched my life. In lieu of the impending holidays, I'd like to share a story with you that makes me smile every time I think about it.

So if you've googled me you've probably read at some point that I grew up in suburban Alberta, and shortly after I turned 14 my family and I moved to Islamabad Pakistan with my father's work for the UN. I don't often talk about how difficult this was, because I like to remember all the rewards that eventually came along with it instead of the inevitable struggles that coincide with such a massive life change. One of the things that was most difficult for both my brother and I was to leave behind our close knit groups of friends whom we had known since we were young children. For the first year or so I wrote letters to all of my friends. Some of them wrote back, but naturally the excitement of letter writing faded, the distance grew and we all went on with our lives. From ages 11-14 I was particularly good friends with a girl named Julie Morris. In grade six we used to write long goofy notes to each other and pass them in class (these were the old days of the 1980's where we didn't have laptops, cell phones or texting). I always thought Julie had an incredible sense of style. She had fantastic 80's bangs and long brown hair that hung straight down her back. She also sported the giant hoop earrings that were all the rage at the time. She always appeared confident and composed which I really admired about her. But above all she was a very loyal friend and that is what mattered most. Well, after I moved away we did write to each other for awhile but this came to a natural, eventual end and we lost touch.

Fast forward 20 years to a little thing called Facebook. I have an album on my personal page entitled "Through the years". In this album I have a few pictures of me and my friends pre-Pakistan, and Julie is in two of them. A mutual friend tags Julie in the photos, and I find her! She lives in Kansas and is happily married with two daughters - but here is the most wonderful part of all: she's a jewelry artisan! And not just any run of the mill jewelry artisan - a super amazing talented one! She named her jewelry company Buffalo Lucy and among other things, she makes these completely awesome chunky rings. She backs this all up with a well-written blog that I love to read. I look at the pictures of who she has become and I am so excited and proud to know that a friend I admired as a child grew into an adult that I admire even more.

Here are a couple of past and present photos of Bazant and Buffalo Lucy.

Past:
1988. Me - top row, second from left. Julie - top row, first on the right

1990 Me - bottom middle in white shirt, Julie - bottom right (in the same shirt but blue).

Present:
February 2010 - Me in the middle (at my bachelorette party)

October 2010 - Julie sporting a necklace for her etsy shop

And here she is with her baby girl

Bazant Featured in Metro Montreal

2010-12-02T11:05:00.000-08:00

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant is featured in Metro Montreal

Artists Of the Case Goods Warehouse Present Holiday Show and Tell

2010-12-01T08:44:00.000-08:00

Come and see me at my studio this weekend. The artists of the Case Goods Warehouse will be opening their doors for a giant festive Holiday Sale! It coincides with the opening weekend of the Toronto Christmas Market, which is also a must see.

Love Red - An Homage to Etsians

2010-11-27T12:51:00.000-08:00

Etsy is a wonderful community of artisans. In the spirit of impending holidays, here's a tribute to red.

Bazant Featured in Candice Batista's Holiday Green Gift Guide]

2010-11-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant is featured in Candice Batista's Holiday Green Gifts

Eco-Fashionistas Come Together in Support of Women's Healthy Environments Network

2010-11-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

On November 18 I had the pleasure of teaming up with Fashion Takes Action to present my ethical and eco friendly artisan jewelry in support of Women's Healthy Environments Network. I have been a long time supporter of WHEN and a member of FTA for the past year and a half, so it was great to see these two parts of my community come together. It was an evening of organic treats and local designers. Kelly Drennan, founder of FTA, and Marcia Wallace, director of WHEN, both made excellent speeches and I learned a few new shocking facts. Did you know that when beauty products list the word 'parfum' it is actually a general term to disguise a whole bunch of harmful chemicals? Also, did you know that 380 gallons of water go into the production of a single tee shirt? Quite the eye opener. I shop at a holistic dispensary and thought my skin care products were natural. Well, low and behold I looked on the back of my so-called safe deodorant today and there it was: 'parfum'.

I've always had tendencies toward slow fashion. Slow fashion is the opposite of fast fashion, which is the way that most of us live: always needing the next new cute outfit at the cheapest price. After three or four washes the cheap clothes fade and lose their shape, but that's OK because it was only $20 so we'll go out and buy another! Along those same lines, I've noticed that as a backlash to the recession most major retailers are seriously slashing their prices to increase sales for the holiday season. Do you ever wonder how they are able to sell things so cheaply? I would say it's pretty much guaranteed to be at the expense of the environment and someone is being exploited along the way. So before you go out and buy a whole bunch of cheap junk for your loved ones because the deals are so good, I encourage you to take a step back and think of an alternative.

Speaking of an alternative - at Connect Beauty I had the wonderful opportunity of participating in a fashion show with some fantastic eco designers:

Heidi Ackerman http://heidiackerman.com/index.html
Desperately Different www.desperatelydifferent.com/index.php
Carrie Hayes http://www.carriehayes.com
Paper People Clothing www.paperpeopleclothing.com/
Preloved www.preloved.ca/
Aime: www.aimeluxury.com/

Here are a few preview photos of the fashion show. More to come once I get copies of the professional shots:

Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant: Jumble - Convertible Necklace/Bracelet

Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant: Sustain collection

Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant: Bellavia necklace

The one below is my favorite - the model loves her necklace so much that she's checking out the story on the tag.

Eco and ethical jewelry by Lara Bazant desplayed at Fashion Takes Action fundraiser for Women's Healthy Environments Network

Bazant`s Zodiac Pendants Featured in Ethical Ocean Gift Guide

2010-11-20T16:26:00.000-08:00

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant is featured in Ethical Ocean`s Holiday Gifts

Upcoming Shows

2010-11-12T18:04:00.000-08:00

Not sure if you've noticed, but according to TV and shopping malls, it's already the HOLIDAY SEASON. Here's what I've got going on:

When: November 13, 2010. Noon - 5:00 pm
What: 18 Karat Holiday Trunk Show
Where: 18 Karat Fine Jewelers: 275 Dundas Street West

When: November 18, 2010 6:30-9:00 pm
What: Connect Beauty
Where: The Center for Social Innovation: 215 Spadina Avenue, 4th Floor

When: December 4-5, 2010 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
What: Holiday Show and Tell by the Artists of the Case Goods Warehouse
Where: The Case Goods Warehouse in the Distillery District - 55 Mill Street, Building #74

When: December 10-12, 2010 - Friday 6:00 pm -9:00 pm, Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
What: Karen Franzen and Friends Holiday Show and Sale
Where: Karen Franzen Studio

And of course my Distillery showroom is open to the public Wednesdays through Sundays 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm so book your appointment before the madness begins!

Introducing: Bellavia

2010-11-09T14:39:00.000-08:00

Remember the necklace called My Life So Far? It has inspired a new collection, named after my long-time friend who returned my most cherished beads from all over the world. Say hello to Bellavia:

Bellavia Necklace in Red. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Bellavia Necklace in Blue. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Bellavia Necklace in Green. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Winter Garden - an Etsy treasury

2010-11-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

My ring is featured in this beautiful treasury by wintergarden

Open Studio Celebration: November 6, 7pm - 11 pm

2010-10-27T10:45:00.000-07:00

open studio celebration

Come raise a glass with Bazant Unique Adornments
to celebrate the opening of our new studio
in the Distillery District

Saturday, November 6, 2010 ~ 7:00 pm - 11:00 pm
The Distillery Historic District ~ Case Goods Warehouse
55 Mill Street, Building #74, Studio #202

Toronto, ON M5A 3C4

Click here for directions and map

Lara Bazant Featured in Ontario Crafts Council's Studio Magazine

2010-10-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

My coconut shell rings have been featured in the prestigious Studio Magazine - a quarterly glossy magazine about craft and design in Canada, published by the Ontario Craft Council.

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant featured in Ontario Craft Council

Construction Zone and Vintage Finds

2010-10-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

There is a massive condo site going up beside my studio building:

Also, I scored a whole bunch of great vintage jewelry (to recycle and re-design) at a North Toronto rummage sale this morning. Woo hoo!! Thank you SO much to my client Heather for tipping me off!

The Neighborhood

2010-10-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

Ah, I love the Distillery District. Every day I walk down the central lane (unlike the tourists who sheepishly keep to the sidewalks) and think to myself "I can't believe I WORK HERE". A few days ago I went exploring and thought it might be nice to share a few photos of my surroundings.

Here is a nice old Victorian Building sitting all by it's lonesome in the middle of Cherry Street. It won't be lonesome for long - there are 16000 units worth of condos to go up in the area within the next five years.

Vacant lot on the same street - with a view of the CN tower in the background.

This building looks like it was part of the original Gooderham and Worts Distillery

- but it hasn't been transformed yet.

Looks like there was once a paper factory across the street.

Here is a view of the rooftops at the north entrance of the Distillery District.

A familiar site - bike shadow on cobblestone. The Distillery District is a favorite for cyclists.

For more information on the area visit www.thedistillerydistrict.com.
Come visit my studio and I`ll show you around!

Custom Redesign: Grandmother's Rhinestone Jewelry

2010-10-13T15:34:00.000-07:00

Just before I moved into the new studio I met with Karen to see what we could do with the jewelry that had been passed down via grandmother, to mother, to Karen. It had been sitting in her jewelry box for years - waiting to be worn and loved again. Out of three sets of brooches and clip-on earrings, Karen wanted two necklaces - one short and one long. We discussed color combos and I kept my promise to try and keep the pieces close to their original form. Here is the jewelry before the transformation:

For the green pieces I sawed off the brooch and clip-on backings, then connected all three parts to make a central pendant. For the rest of the necklace I used chalcedony chips from Thailand and blue Chinese cloisonne.

For the longer piece, I combined the two remaining sets of brooches and earrings with sterling silver chain, as well as some vintage faux pearls and crystals from my collection.

When I met with Karen to hand over the final pieces, I surprised her with this little tidbit: After cutting the flower extensions off of the super sparkly brooch, it transformed from outdated and garish to simple and fabulous. She can actually wear this!

Karen was very happy with the result. She's pretty funky so all of these pieces will suit her nicely. Thanks for the rewarding challenge Karen!

Eco-Fashion in Montreal

2010-10-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

Bazant designs can now be found in Montreal at Ethik BGC - a gorgeous shop on St. Hubert street that carries only designers with a social/environmental commitment.

Bazant's Coconut Shell Rings are a Hit at Los Angeles Buzz Party

2010-10-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked to complete an order of 55 rings for a high profile event that took place in Beverly Hills. The guest list included the Executive Director of CBS, actresses from Mad Men and the Producer of 90210 - to name a few. Here are a couple of photos of the gift bag - check out my rings right in the front!! Guests were asked to vote on their top five products and the results will be posted within a week. Cross your fingers for me!

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant featured in Los Angeles Buzz Party Swag Bag

Bazant Unique Adornments Video

2010-10-07T13:04:00.000-07:00

Filmed and edited by Blue Pencil Productions

Testimonials: What people are saying about Bazant

2010-10-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

"Thank you so much for creating the cluster cameo just for me. It's beautiful and I get non-stop compliments on it.”
- Ashley, Makeup and Hair Stylist

"I met Lara to discuss creating jewelry for my wedding day plus a gift for my daughter to wear on our special day. The meaning of what I wanted Lara to create would be something for my daughter and me to share forever. This would not be an easy feat for anyone to create but Lara excelled on all levels. Her questions in our first meeting covered the gamut – material options, weight, size, personal preferences and even skin sensitivities. By the end of our meeting I knew what my cost would be and exactly when I could expect delivery. The day of delivery was a bigger surprise for me than I had expected - remember, the jewelry is custom created. I was truly touched at Lara’s ability to perfectly capture everything we discussed in our initial meeting and turn that conversation into two stunning sets of jewelry. Her business professionalism mixed with her talent and knowledge is unsurpassed and I confidently and happily recommend Lara’s services. Thank you Lara!”
- Deanne, Personal Organizer

"Thanks for a terrific workshop Lara! It was fun, creative and informative and it was so great to have a small group of people to share ideas and see each others creations. Thanks for your help with my design. I can't wait to get it to my Mom!"
- Anne, Career Coach

“Lara is one of Toronto's most gifted jewelry designers. I am an artisan jewelry "junkie" and her work leads the pack for design, quality and originality. She particularly good at redesigning old jewellery into new pieces.”
- Beth, Business Writer

“Lara's custom work combines her creativity with an understanding of her client's unique style and personality. She has magically transformed inherited jewelry that languished in boxes for years into pieces I wear all the time because they truly reflect who I am.”
- Anne, Image Consultant

“I first had Lara fix and rework a beautiful necklace I had been given. She made it even better! I've also bought several of her creations both for gifts and for myself. They've been big hits! It is a pleasure to hear how Lara goes about selecting beads and making truly unique pieces.”
- Manuela, Interior Designer

"Lara is a talented creator of beautiful jewelry. I met Lara while we were volunteering in Uganda, and I have since purchased some of her creations. Even though I live internationally (Australia), she has shipped them to me quickly and professionally, and I have always been happy with the results. I also asked Lara to custom design a necklace similar to one I've seen her create in the past, and it is beautiful. I especially like the fact that Lara uses recycled and fair trade materials. I always receive compliments on her work! Thanks, Lara!
- Grace, Teacher

“Lara creates beautiful, unique pieces that each have their own story. She designed a couple of pieces for me from old necklaces, earrings and a charm bracelet that I wasn't wearing. Now, these pieces are among my favorite items and I love to show them off and tell people about Lara's fabulous work. Lara takes the time to understand the style that you want, to create custom pieces that suit your style. I've also bought a gift for a friend from Lara featuring beautiful beads sourced sustainably from different places on the globe - so nice to give a gorgeous gift that is also eco-friendly!”
- Susan, Corporate Trainer

“I've never had custom jewelry done before, so Lara was getting a complete newbie. She helped me to connect with a sacred process of being attracted to a central piece for a necklace, an Egyptian scarab, and then having a follow up meeting to work out all the details. In that meeting, she had me bring necklaces that I already had and liked. From looking at those I was able to identify what was important to me in a necklace. From there, we engaged in a collaborative effort to design a necklace that was TOTALLY me and reflected the changes I'm currently going through in my life. My scarab necklace is the most meaningful and personal piece of jewelry I own now, and it feels GREAT to wear it! I highly recommend Lara for her strong ethics, ability to take in the personality of her client, and amazing creative gift for making meaningful and fashionable jewelry. Lara gets my 10 out of 10!”
- Sherap, Meditation Teacher

“Lara is a wonderful, creative designer. Her jewelry is really very original. I absolutely love the earrings I first got from her. People are always asking me about them -- made from antique belt buckles. Then she re-worked some older jewelry I had which I wanted but never wore. She updated them, adding her own twist, and now I love them. I highly recommend Lara if you are looking for something a little different and personalized.”
- Heather, Language and Pronunciation Coach

“I have bought a whole bunch of jewelry from Lara over the past 3 years and her work is amazing! It is creative and pretty and I get tons of compliments on it! She is also flexible and accommodating about where we can meet and she is very reliable. Thanks for giving me such great pieces of art to wear!”

- Stephanie, Financial Advisor

“Lara's eco-chic jewelry is inventive and well-conceptualized. I love so many of her pieces and appreciate all the little details!”
- Sherry, Operations Manager

"Thank you for my necklace. It's exactly what I needed/wanted. Exquisite combination of beads."
- Vijay, Executive Assistant

New Custom Pieces - Anne and Grace

2010-10-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

In honor of my move to the new studio in the Distillery, I am offering 15% off all custom redesign for the first three months. The new space is incredibly inspiring, and I've been having a great time working on custom orders.

Anne liked the beads in this necklace, but the style didn't suit her. I took it apart and reworked it with some soldered silver jump rings. The two smaller glass beads didn't quite fit so I mixed in some Chilean silver beads and created a bracelet. Sometimes a little tweaking can go a long way. Here is the necklace before:

And here is the necklace and bracelet after the redesign:

Grace liked the turquoise piece that I did for Susan back in the winter, so I went into my stash of goodies and found similar beads that I thought would suit her. Here's what I came up with:

So that just goes to show you - if you like something I've done for another customer, don't hesitate to ask if you can get something similar for yourself. Each piece is uniquely designed for the wearer.

Bazant featured in SNAP Bloor West - October Edition

2010-10-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant

This photo of me at my booth during the Junction Arts Festival is featured in the October edition of SNAP Bloor West Village.

Come and See Bazant at the Queen West Art Crawl this Weekend

2010-09-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

It's a busy month! First the move to the new studio, then the Junction Arts Festival, and now the Queen West Art Crawl Outdoor Art Show and Sale. I've got a whole new set of gorgeous four-way necklaces - and of course tons of new cluster pendants, earrings and lots of other colorful goodies. Time to gussy up the fall wardrobe with some funky, artsy eco-conscious jewelry. I'll be at booth E-31 in Trinity Bellwoods park. Hope to see you there!

Bazant Moves to a New Studio in the Distillery Historic District Toronto

2010-09-10T15:50:00.000-07:00

On September 3rd Bazant Unique Adornments officially moved to a spacious new studio in the Distillery Historic District. Studio #202 in the Case Goods Warehouse is now my private workshop, showroom and future classroom. While I get settled in I'm offering 15% off on all custom work. Take this opportunity to have your old costume jewelry re-designed into something gorgeous and meaningful to you! For examples of previous custom projects, visit the CUSTOM WORK section of the blog. Call 416-879-6367 to arrange an appointment.

Really, it's a dream come true. I am surrounded by beautiful Victorian Architecture, and tons of talented artists. The streetcar ride down here is so inspiring. I take the 504 King car which goes through the nicest part of Riverdale, as well as east Chinatown and Corktown. I'm still getting the showroom set up, but so far it's really shaping up! Come and see me at the Junction Arts Festival this weekend to see my latest collections and set up an appointment at the new studio.

Why I Love Hot Yoga

2010-08-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

I've been practicing hot yoga at Moksha Yoga Danforth for three years. In the beginning, it was excruciating...but it was something I was drawn to so I kept going back. Now it is something I can't live without. When I returned from my volunteer Uganda trip last year I was inspired to step it up a notch and I practiced every other day for an entire month. That is a lot of sweating! It got me into shape though. I was able to lose weight and fit into a skimpy bridesmaids dress, as well as achieve the stamina I needed to keep up with all my outdoor shows. Afterwards, I even got into jogging - something I never would have attempted before.

Moksha Yoga is a bit different from Bikram Yoga. In Moskha, the floors are tiled (not carpeted), the philosophy is mind, body, soul (not just body), and the postures are more traditionally "yogic" (downward dog etc).

I practice at the Danforth location because from the moment I walked in I felt like a welcome part of the community. There is always someone smiling, saying hi. They remember your name. They are encouraging, challenging and gentle all at once.

For those who are interested in giving it a try, here are a few tips:
1. If you've never done any kind of yoga before, try a regular hatha class or beginner DVD to familiarize yourself with the basic postures.
2. Most hot yoga studios offer a "try it for a week for $20" pass. I reccommend giving that a shot because it's a good deal and you need to go a few times before deciding if this is something you really like or not.
3. Seriously hydrate BEFORE going to class. This will make it a lot easier. Don't drink coffee, tea or alcohol before going to class or you will feel nauseated. No fun.
4. The room reaches over 100 degrees Fahrenheit and 50 percent humidity. The sweat will pour off of every part of your body. This means you will need to shower afterward and have a change of clothes handy. The sweating is detoxing and cleansing and actually makes the postures easier. No, it doesn't stink like B.O. in the class. When you sweat that much it is way past the stage of body odor. Just thought I'd clear that up because people have asked me about it.
5. If you get dizzy or nauseated in class, LIE DOWN. Never push yourself beyond your limits. Know that it is a journey, not a competition.

For more information visit the Moksha Yoga website. Enjoy!

My Life So Far

2010-08-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

Recently my best friend from my University days in New York came to visit. While she was here she gave me a bunch of beads that she had saved over the years from pieces I had made for her. I had forgotten, but while I was living in New York I did quite a bit of traveling internationally and always came back and made necklaces for my friends with the beads I collected while away.

The beads she saved are some of the oldest, coolest, most special beads I got from Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Thailand, Egypt and Turkey. As soon as I saw them I immediately had to make a necklace.

What I love about these beads is that they were from a very inspired time of my life - and they found their way back to me. I keep wanting to send my friend the necklace, but I feel so attached to it! This rarely if ever happens to me with the jewelry I create. I make it for others to enjoy. This one though....it might have to be mine for awhile. After all, the title of it is "My Life So Far".

Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Spiralicious

2010-08-08T05:42:00.000-07:00

I seem to be getting lots of love from my fellow Etsians these days. Here's a nice spiral treasury that includes another one of my Aurora Borealis pendants.

Coconut Shell Earrings are Here

2010-08-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Ask and you shall receive! Many people have asked me to create earrings out of the little pieces of coconut shell that I use for the rings. Voila!

Coconut Shell Earrings in Turquoise and Green. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Coconut Shell Earrings in Red. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

They'll be available at 18 Karat starting Thursday August 12th, and online shortly after. I'll have lots of new colors ready for fall show season starting September 11th with the Junction Arts Festival.

Pink and Grey - an Etsy Treasury

2010-08-04T05:57:00.000-07:00

Ingo Design included Bazant's Aurora Borealis Pendants in their recent Etsy treasury.

Bazant Fall 2010 Preview at the Distillery District July 31 - August 2

2010-07-13T20:47:00.000-07:00

I've been hard at work designing and producing some exciting new collections over the summer. I love taking a walk outside and getting inspired by all the beautiful summery things to see, then coming back to the studio and sitting down at the bench to work. Be the first to see the new Zodiac, Initials and Enamels collections - come and see Bazant Unique Adornments at the Artisans at the Distillery show this weekend - July 31- August 2, 11 am - 6 pm daily. I've learned some new skills and refined others. Enameling is a new favorite and I'll definitely be creating more!

Zodiac Pendant Necklaces. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Enamel Pendant Necklaces. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

Detachable Letter Pendant Necklaces. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

The Family Visit

2010-07-09T08:16:00.000-07:00

From June 30th to July 3rd my family (Mom, Dad, brother Colin and sister-in-law Alana) traveled from Vancouver to Toronto for a short but sweet visit to celebrate the recent nuptials of Chris and I. Although my family lives far away, we remain closely tied together in our hearts and whenever we are together, no matter where it is in the world, it feels like home. Highlights of the trip included dinners around town (with one fancy wedding-type dinner at the Boiler House), shopping, my own home cooking and a video shoot for Bazant Unique Adornments. My brother Colin is a professional videographer and runs his own business - bluepencilproductions. Before his arrival I asked if he would be up to shooting a video about some of my new pieces and he went out and purchased a new camera just for the occasion! The raw footage looks amazing and I can't wait to see the final result. Stay tuned for that because it's going to be awesome. In the meantime, here are some photos of the family visit.

Oh Canada! Another Etsy Tribute

2010-06-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

The letter "N" detachable pendant necklace is featured in this snazzy tribute to my nation - just in time for Canada Day. Hooray for patriotism!

Hot pink pics on Etsy

2010-06-27T07:16:00.000-07:00

Check it out! The eco cluster pendant has been featured in an etsy treasury.

Prime Minister of Canada sees Bazant Unique Adornments

2010-06-19T07:21:00.000-07:00

Beth Parker - owner of Words and Solutions business writing - is a fellow member and past president of the Canadian Association of Women Executives and Entrepreneurs. She loves my designs and has purchased a few pieces. Once I created a custom set for her by renewing a string of old jade that belonged to her mother. Here she is pictured with her husband John Parker and Prime Minister Steven Harper - and she is wearing the Sustain Bamboo necklace by Bazant! Close up view of the necklace shown below.

Beth Parker wears necklace by Toronto jewelry designer Lara Bazant

Sustain Bib Necklace featured in Etsy Blog!

2010-05-29T09:58:00.000-07:00

Check it out HERE

New wholesale linesheet available on Trunkt

2010-05-28T16:36:00.000-07:00

Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments. Wholesale linesheet available via trunkt.com

http://bazant.trunkt.com

Eco Fashion Guides and Julia Child

2010-05-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

I've started seeing all kinds of great eco fashion blogs and sites popping up. Two of my most recent faves are Eco Fashion World and For Those About to Shop. As an eco artisan blogger, it's time I started giving some love to my fellow tree-huggin style-lovin sisters and brothers. More to come! Also, I wanted to mention that last night I rented Julie and Julia and loved it. Seeing both women strive and struggle to complete their goals reminded me of my own journey as an artisan and business owner. It's the process that gets you there. It really is. Julia Child was a strong, smart, tenacious woman that fascinates me in every way. Shamefully I admit that I didn't know much about her before watching this movie....so even though there are mixed opinions about Julie Powell and her infamous "modern spew" of a blog, I thank her for bringing an icon back to life.

Bazant Unique Adornments: Available for purchase on Ethical Ocean

2010-05-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Beach Studio Tour This Weekend

2010-04-30T12:59:00.000-07:00

www.beachstudiotour.ca

Detachable Letter Pendant Necklaces

2010-04-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

I have started to list the detachable letter pendant necklaces in my etsy shop. Any letter of the alphabet can be created, and I have many different letters already in stock. To catch a glimpse of them in person, check them out at Shopgirls or come and see me at the Beach Studio Tour April 30-May 2.

Detachable Letter Pendants with Thai Hill tribe Silver. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

The Starfish Story by Loren Eisley

2010-04-09T08:26:00.000-07:00

One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed a boy picking something up and gently throwing it into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “What are you doing?” The youth replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” “Son,” the man said, “don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make a difference!” After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it back into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said…"I made a difference for that one.”

Last night I attended "Art for Africa" - a fundraiser for Gisimba Orphanage in Rwanda. I had donated a piece of jewelry to the silent auction, as development in Africa is very important to me since my trip to Uganda last year. It was a highly successful event and I applaud Melanie Woodward for all of her hard work and dedication to the project. She is an inspiration to many.

thatchannel.com's "Your Biz" show interviews Lara Bazant

2010-03-19T16:56:00.000-07:00

The video podcast of my recent live interview has been posted! Watch it below. There is one guest and a musician before me - my part starts at 40:00. Enjoy!

The Vegas Collection

2010-03-17T18:24:00.000-07:00

The Vegas Collection: The Venetian. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

The Vegas Collection: The Bellagio.

The Vegas Collection: The Palazzo.

The Vegas Collection: The Wynn.

The Vegas Collection: Mandalay Bay.

The Vegas Collection: Earrings: The Golden Nugget.

The Vegas Collection: Necklace: The Golden Nugget

The Vegas Collection. Eco and ethical jewelry by Bazant Unique Adornments

This collection is inspired by my recent trip to Las Vegas. The Venetian, The Bellagio, The Palazzo, The Wynn, The Mirage, The Golden Nugget, Caesar's Palace.

The Southwest Landscapes collection

2010-03-17T18:06:00.000-07:00

The Southwest Landscapes Collection. Necklace: Valley of Fire National Park.

The Southwest Landscapes Collection. Bracelet: Sierra Nevada Sky

The Southwest Landscapes Collection. Necklace: Driving to the Grand Canyon

This collection is inspired by my recent trip to Nevada and Arizona. The Valley of Fire, Boulder City, The Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon. The Sierra Nevada mountain range: red desert rock and a vast sky.

More Wedding Photos

2010-03-10T21:59:00.000-08:00

Here are a few more wedding shots. To read the full story of our fabulous trip, see "Vegas Visions".

How to become a social entrepreneur

2010-03-06T19:43:00.000-08:00

I recently attended a two day Health and Human rights conference at the University of Toronto on the subject of foreign aid (effectiveness, debates for and against, etc). The variety as well as the level of expertise of speakers for both the presentations and panel discussions exceeded my expectations. Initially I signed up for the conference based on the NGO fair part of it. Indeed, I made some connections at the NGO fair that will no doubt fuel my next steps, but it was Jason Saul's workshop on the basics of social entrepreneurship that really resonated. Here I'd like to share the ten valuable tips that Jason provided:

1. You have to be working with a core skill that you want to apply to the social sector. Invest in your core skills first - not in a general love of humanitarianism.
2. People won't support something that is just nice. Provide people with what they have to have, not what you think might be good.
3. You need a business model that works. This means finding the right stakeholders - people who value what you are doing.
4. Innovate. Think of ways to create new forms of value.
5. Find a go-to-market partner (companies, academic institutions etc). Don't try and do it completely alone.
6. Don't waste time trying to squeeze grant money out of foundations. You'll waste a lot of time. Find the key players in the market who will fund your project/ product by paying for it directly.
7. Execute before you talk. Gain credibility before trying to gain press.
8. You don't have to be a charity. You can be a business with a cause.
9. As an organization, become an expert in something. Show your core competencies.
10. Don't overthink it. Engage and the possibilities will emerge.

Engage.....and the possibilities will emerge.

Vegas Visions

2010-03-06T19:13:00.000-08:00

Well folks, I got married. No, I didn't go to a church and banquet hall with 500 friends. Instead, Chris and I flew to Las Vegas, then drove to Valley of Fire National Park and got married by a minister of Navajo descent, between the peaceful quiet of towering red rocks, to the sound of birds and a gentle breeze.

We spent a week in Vegas, and explored the grandiose luxury of the strip with side trips around the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Hoover Dam, Boulder City, and of course the Grand Canyon.

There is much inspiration to be drawn from this part of the world. The ever-changing landscapes, the friendly locals, and the sensory overload of luxury and fantasy: Las Vegas.

I was especially inspired by Freemont Street, otherwise known as "Old Vegas". No airs about this place whatsoever! The Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino has a distinct 70's flair. Memories of back in the day mixed with the excitement of now. Even on a Tuesday night the place was ablaze with energy.

The natural world around Vegas is even more breathtaking than the man-made structures. I've seen lots of mountains in my lifetime (many visits to British Columbia, and flying in and out of Japan), but there is something different about the rocks in this region. Something more mystical and far more beautiful.

Of course the famous Las Vegas Blvd. ("The Strip") was not to be missed. We spent a few days getting lost while weaving our way through massive lobbys.

Two days after returning home I took the vintage and antique trinkets I picked up at a North Vegas flea market (where by the way I had the most amazing homemade tacquitos to the blaring sounds of samba), I began creating the "Vegas Collection" - a limited edition jewelry series using reclaimed vintage brass and sterling silver. Each piece is named after one of the major resorts we explored: The Bellagio, The Venetian, The Palazzo, Caesar's Palace, Mandalay Bay, and my favorite - the Golden Nugget. The following are some quick snaps of the beginning of the collection. I was so excited to record the process that I haven't yet set up my "professional" shots with the white cloth background - but the collection still needs tweaking, so those shots will come soon enough. Here is a sneak peek:

My next venture at the bench will be to use the rare Navajo turquoise I picked up at the Grand Canyon to create my "Nevada Landscapes" collection. The two new collections will be unveiled at my spring studio sale on April 3rd.

As I settle back into routine, I am already ansty for my next adventure. In the meantime, I will enjoy life as a newlywed.

Eco Fashion Magazine Interviews Toronto Eco Jeweler Lara Bazant

2010-02-10T07:39:00.000-08:00

I'm super excited about the release of this article on EF Magazine. Malorie, the editor in chief, interviewed me last fall and it has now been posted on their blog. Read about how you can make ethical fashion choices at www.efmgzn.com

Toronto Eco Jewelry Designer Lara Bazant featured in EF Magazine

How To Make Your Blog Enticing to Robots and Humans Seminar Recap

2010-02-10T07:03:00.001-08:00

How To Make Your Blog Enticing to Robots and Humans Seminar Recap

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