There is MORE to Universal Unique Trollbeads Than You Can Imagine!

Some glass beads are more beautiful than others but surely the most beautiful of all are those that help people to a better life.

This is the fruit of a project set up by Lise Aagaard Copenhagen (Trollbeads) to teach exiled Tibetan refugees in Dharamsala to provide for themselves.

This great story is yet another example of how special Trollbeads really are! Making the Universal Unique beads for Trollbeads makes it possible for many Tibetan refugees to provide for themselves and their families.

It started in 2005 when Lise Aagaard Copenhagen began a ‘Self Sustainable Business Project’ in cooperation with a Tibet Charity. The idea for the project was to teach destitute Tibetan refugees ‘to catch fish’ as opposed to ‘give them fish’.

In May 2005, Lise traveled to Dharamsala and taught them how to make glass beads. She then bought all the beads they produced and continued to work with them in perfecting their technique for over 6 years. She also provided education on how to run their own businesses.

The result of this project are the absolutely gorgeous UNIVERSAL UNIQUE beads from Trollbeads. These beads are high-quality, glass beads that fit on ALL bracelets including Pandora and Chamilia.

Lise explained that she always experienced so much pleasure working in her trade and thought that sharing her knowledge and passion in a way that could help others was a fantastic opportunity.

The manager of the project was appointed by his holiness the Dalai Lama and started with Lise visiting Dharamsala in May 2005 when she taught bead making to 12 women and men.

'Tibet Beads’, as the project is called, continues to make beads and ship them to Denmark, where Lise Aagaard uses them in her Universal Unique collection. The style of the “Tibet Beads” reflects the Tibetans own preferences for color and design, making them individually unique.

Today, more than 24 families make a living producing this jewelery. On the main street in Dharamsala, the Tibetans have even opened their own store from which they sell their jewelery. They have also opened a dairy, a carpentry and a tailoring business as a result of the training they received from the program!

Way to go Trollbeads!

Let's Talk Treska

Treska Jewelry works hard to design quality handmade products. While many of their items are imported, each is made by hand. Each enjoys the slight variations of human processes which makes each completely unique. The “look” is one of weathered or antiqued pieces and have that “one of a kind handmade” feel. The goals is to create jewelry that is as unique and special as its owner.

Unique and Special means it's perfect for our Willow Tree Customers! Come in and let us show you the collection!

So Many "Little Things" Make Us Special!

The Card Cubby® is a stylish, alphabetized mini-card file that fits right into your purse, briefcase, baby bag or car console!

Use it to Alphabetically File:
■Gift Cards
■Frequent Buyer Cards (like your Power Pass)
■Discount Cards
■Business Cards
■Important Contact Info
■Insurance Cards
■And on and on...

Put your Drivers License in the clear pocket, some cash and credit cards inside and use as a wallet!

Then, check out the Coupon Cubby, a stylish, organizing purse with a removable/adjustable strap and 30 dividers with labels. Use the pre-printed A-Z Labels or the specifics (like Dairy etc.) or customize it with the blank labels that are also included. The Coupon Cubby has an inside zipper for money and room for cell phones and keys. It is the PERFECT take-along for your trips to Kroger, Meijer, Concessis or Total Health Foods!

These are just two of the perfect stocking stuffers, or gifts that we ALWAYS have at "The Tree". We are THE "go to" place for those special touches that you need when looking for birthday, hostess or special occasion gifts!

Real Fur?

More than 300 designers used fur in their collections this year, yet in the early 1990's, wearing fur was taboo. Why the change of heart? It's simple. Fur is irresistibly glamourous, soft, sexy, flattering, fashionable and unbeatably warm.

We've got a nice selection of fur vests, jackets and sweaters. They're fabulous! Come in and tell us what you think!

Ecru Pants -- Known as THE BEST FITTING PANTS

The Story:

Ecru, makers of the world's best fitting pants, is one of the brands designed and marketed by Design Factory NYC, a New York based apparel and accessory company.

Ecru started with one pant ... The "beck trouser" in their exclusive double stretch fabric. Once women tried these clean, modern and sexy pants on; they were hooked. Ecru quickly established itself and has developed a loyal following among fashion aware women.

The Ecru customer is intelligent, active and seeks clothes to go with her to the office, out at night, on the weekends and in her travels. These women place a premium on fabric, quality, fit and original styling. Sounds like the Willow Tree Woman, doesn't it?

Willow Tree has these fantastic pants in the store right now! Come check them out!

Fireflies - Yet another Great New Autumn Release from Trollbeads

If you visit the tropics you can be lucky to see the little fireflies that radiate a unique green light to attract prey or to find a mate. Great inspiration for this great new bead!

Organic Bubbles

Another of the new Autumn beads is Organic Bubbles. Reminds us of Azure Bubbles. GORGEOUS!

Maternity

The Autumn collection is caring & beautiful. As always it uses silver, gold, glass, & precious stones.

One new bead is called Maternity. This gorgeous silver and gold bead designed by Magdalena Jędrzejczak-Nalazek ahows a mother and baby playing together and enjoying themselves in a simple and sweet ritual - sacred since the beginning of motherhood.

Perfect for a new mom -- or an old one!

TROLLBEADS

The new Fall beads are FANTASTIC and the wait is finally over! We are happy to report that the Autumn 2011 collection is on its way to the Tree!

In the Trollbeads 2011 autumn collection, nature unfolds and you can almost hear the leaves falling, taste the dew drops, see the green light of the little fireflies, or smell the beautiful scent of the coral flower. The collection captures elements from everyday life, and the beautiful colors evoke memories of different cultures.

You are going to fall in love AGAIN! Watch our Facebook page for delivery information!

Ovacion Liquid

In addition to Forever New Wash and Stain Remedy, we have the Ovacion Liquid Wash. Use it to pamper your shapewear, bodywear, hosiery and lingerie. This great product will help keep the elasticity and softness in these special garments. This great product is proven to extend the life of your tights, leggings, and leotards.

Ovacion's liquid formulation was created to prolong the life of modern elastomers and microfibers that are used in today's contemporary fashions. Use it once and you'll notice the difference!

Forever New Garment Wash Now Available

Promotes longer life in all fine washables
*Gently cleans and brightens
*Non toxic and biodegradable
*Leaves no soap residue

This is the perfect product to use on your finer garments.

Forever New Fabric Care * Stain Remedy

We are SO EXCITED to be able to offer the Forever New line of products at the Willow Tree. Forever New has "All the Best" in fine garment care since 1975 with products that restore and refresh lingerie, hosiery, swimwear, silks, wools, and other colorfast delicates that require a gentle wash.

Forever New has an excellent reputation earned by retaining the highest quality control standards, and by using biodegradable and environmentally sound ingredients.

The first product we'll highlight is Stain Remedy, a unique blend of very effective, biodegradable ingredients derived from coconut and palm kernels. This amazing and high quality product removes the toughest of stains and is even effective working out older more set in stains while causing no harm to your garments.

*Safely lifts most common stains
*Absolutely Solvent-Free
*Biodegradable
*Convenient applicator bottle

What is Acetate, Anyhow?

Acetate is derived from cellulose and has specific characteristics:

* Luxurious feel and appearance
* Wide range of colors and lusters
* Excellent drapability and softness
* Relatively fast drying
* Shrink, moth and mildew resistant

Special dyes have been developed for acetate since it does not accept dyes ordinarily used for cotton and rayon. Many blouses, dresses and made from acetate as are wedding attire, home furnishings, draperies and upholstery.

HOW TO CARE FOR ACETATE CLOTHING

Most acetate garments should be dry-cleaned, but if handwashing is allowed by the manufacturer, use the following guide:

* Handwash in warm water with mild suds
* Do not twist or wring out garment
* Do not soak colored items
* Press while damp on wrong side (inside out) with cool iron. For finishing on the right side, use a pressing cloth

(Again, we recommend that you refer to garment's sewn-in care label for specific instructions.)

Note: Acetate is adversely affected by acetone and other organic solvents, such as nail polish remover and perfumes containing these solvents.

Dry Cleaning Recommended Here

These fabric care suggestions are provided as a general guide for the convenience of our customers. Because materials and dyes vary between manufacturers and products, we do recommend that you follow their specific instructions - and to test a sample before washing or dry cleaning the entire garment.

Acetate: Dry clean only.

Linen: Dry cleaning is recommended because it retains the original crisp finish to the fabric. But, hand washing in mild soap with no chlorine bleach and drying flat on a clean non-colored towel is also o.k. Note: Hand washing does soften the feel of the linen which is sometimes preferred.

Rayon: Dry cleaning is recommended, although hand washing in lukewarm water is okay. No chlorine bleach allowed. Lay items flat on a clean non-colored towel to dry.

Silk: Dry cleaning is preferred. Hand washing is possible if mild soap and lukewarm water is used.

Suede: Recommendation is dry cleaning. Although Machine wash gentile cycle is allowed.

Wool & Suiting: Recommendation is for dry cleaning. Can be spot cleaned with a damp sponge. Hand washing is NOT recommended here.

How to Wash "Dry Clean" Clothes at Home

In general you can successfully hand wash most dry clean only garments. (See list below for items that should be taken to the professionals)

The success will depend on the type of fabric, how the garment is put together, the dyes used, and the printing process used on the fabric.

Also your hand laundering success is dependent on the amount of dirt and stains on the fabric.

For best results always use cold water and a gentle cleanser. Hand wash by dipping the fabric in and out of the sudsy water. Gently scrub with your finger tips areas of heavy soil like the armpits and the neckline.

* Never use bleaches, regular laundry cleansers, fabric softeners, or rinse additives.

After you have hand washed your dry clean garments, roll them tightly in an absorbent towel. Unroll the towel and move the garment to a dry part of the towel and roll again. Continue until garment no longer feels drippy. It may take 2-5 rollings.

Never wring or twist your dry clean only garment - even when they are in the towel.

If the garment is stretchy like a sweater you will want to re-shape and lay flat to dry. If it is made of silk, wool or other natural animal fibers you should keep it out of direct sun light.

Give your dry clean garments a gentle shake - this separates the front from the back for faster drying time as well as removing any wrinkles caused by the rolling process.

Tops and dresses should be hung. Be sure to straighten the collars into position you want them to dry in.

Clothing items that are NOT safe to hand wash and are best taken to the dry cleaners:
*Acetate fibers
*Rayon (It often shrinks – though it generally only does so once.)
*Garments with a special finish on them
*Leather or Suede.

If the garment is very special to you - and you would be sad if washing by hand changed the garment in anyway, don't chance it!

Machine Gentle Cycle vs. Handwashing & Machine Dry vs. Hang to Dry

Care instructions are helpful tips to keep your clothes looking great as long as possible. Although some modern washing machines have a “hand wash” cycle (similar to a delicate cycle), it does not guarantee the same gentle washing as washing by hand.

Typically, these fabrics easily stretch, snag and lose their shape when machine washed.

Another factor to consider is the type of washing machine you are using. Many top loading machines with the central agitator are too rough for these gentle fabrics and should be avoided. There are some front loading machines that are much gentler on clothing in general and offer a higher level of success.

There is some trial and error in attempting to machine wash “hand wash” items. If the item is valuable or irreplaceable, don’t risk it. If it is a general, everyday item that can be replaced if necessary, then try the steps below to gently wash it in the machine.

Machine Washable Fabrics/Fibers
■Acrylic
■Cotton
■Lycra
■Microfibers
■Nylon
■Polyester
■Polyolefin
■Spandex
■Triacetate (unless it’s pleated)

If Machine Washing “Hand Wash” Items You Will Need:
■Mild laundry detergent
■Mesh lingerie bag(s)

Steps to Machine Wash the Clothing:
1.Smaller loads are best when washing these delicate pieces.
2.Select a cold temperature wash and add the appropriate amount of mild detergent.
3.Place the item in a mesh lingerie bag to help prevent snags and stretching while it is washing.
4.Complete the cycle and promptly remove the clothing.

Machine Drying “Hang to Dry” Items
1.Similar to washing, the appropriate settings are of utmost importance when drying items that are not designed to be placed in the dryer.
2.Most “hang to dry” items are labeled as such because the heat of the dryer will cause the fabric to shrink.
3.If machine drying, use a “no heat” setting.
4.Remove the item from the lingerie bag and place it in the dryer.
5.Stop the drying cycle while the piece is still slightly damp.
6.Remove it and hang it dry until it is completely dry.

Additional Tips and Advice
■If you have any doubts as to how the piece will tolerate the machines, play it safe and hand wash it.
■It may also help to take baby steps to see how the clothing tolerates the cleaning steps. For example, try machine washing the piece and allowing it to air dry. Then, the next time you clean it, try drying it for a short amount of time.
■Good luck! If the clothing comes out well, you’ve found an easy, efficient way to clean them!

John Medeiros, Rhodium, Cubic Zirconium & 14K Gold

John Medeiros uses Rhodium, a derivative of platinum because it has all of the attributes of platinum with the added benefit of being harder, lasting longer, with a whiter tone.

He uses man-made Cubic Zirconium which will not chip, crack, cloud or fade. Cubic Zirconium is virtually indistinguishable to the eye by diamond experts, can scratch glass like natural diamonds, and is tougher than a sapphire.

Rhodium is a chemical element that is a rare, silvery-white derivative of platinum. It is one of the rarest precious metals, and the most costly. It is resistant to tarnish and improves optical impression.

Rhodium IS a precious metal. In fact, it's about ten times costlier than gold, but generally not used to make solid jewelry because it's difficult to work with. It is fabulous as a plating for jewelry because it is glittering, dazzling, white and mirror-like. Rhodium plating makes cubic zirconia look bigger and better because it's so bright that it's hard to see where the stones end and the metal begins. Nothing sets off stones like rhodium plating does.

The hallmark of each piece of John Medeiros is that it is hand-polished and plated in rhodium and 14Kt gold which has a permanent non-tarnish, easy to care for finish.

Come in next week to experience this fabulous line for yourself!

John Medeiros Laurea Collection

The John Medeiros brand is like no other we sell. It places us in a different category in our area! We are able to offer magnificent pieces of jewelry at an amazing value.

This means that many of us can wear jewelry that may have been out of reach or beyond our budget in the past. The great price points allow us to "feel like a million" without spending one.

The John Medeiros jewelry company introduced the bracelet called "Laurea", meaning new beginnings in Italian. The interchangeable cuff bracelet comes in four styles - LIFE, LOVE, LUCK and STRENGTH, with designer ends that can be switched out as you choose.

The new beginnings bracelet by John Medeiros - perfect for Willow Tree's new beginning with them!

Let's Compare, Shall We?

One of these bracelets retails for $2850, the other for about $110. They look and feel the same. Put side by side, it's hard to tell the difference!

You can see that John Medeiros looks as though it costs thousands. It's especially easy to appreciate that fact when you see them side-by-side! I've seen BOTH in person and it's just as hard to tell the difference!

Most pieces in the John Medeiros line are priced between $50 and $150. They're heirloom quality items that you'll want to pass on to future generations!

More details tomorrow!

Let Me Tell You About John Medeiros Jewelry!

Each piece looks like it cost thousands of dollars...and yet they're so affordable!
Each and every piece is designed and crafted with the same meticulous effort as those from other similar looking lines that DO cost thousands. However, with John Medeiros, you are not paying for what you don’t see. The base metal alloy contains less silver. You get the same fabulous look without the worry of cleaning or theft. We LOVE that!

Every John Medeiros piece is copyrighted and individually handcrafted by skilled artisans in Rhode Island....and goes through a meticulous process involving over 20 individual steps. Some "trademarks" you may find are a signature clasp and the John Mederios hidden signature.

John Mederios IS a real guy, too! He's got over 30 years in this industry and personally supervises each piece that is created! He often polishes the pieces by hand himself. His daughter Nina is part of the family business, too! She has been instrumental in choosing the right items for the Willow Tree customer's first experience with John Medeiros Jewelry! They're idependent and family owned, just as we are.

Because each piece carries his good name, Mr. Mederios backs his jewelry with a lifetime guarantee.

Log on tomorrow to learn more!