This Sunday, I had the most delightful brunch at La Perlerie, hosted by Susan Nagy and her lovely staff.  Susan wanted to get to know some people in the fashion industry, so she offered to treat me and a dozen or so fashion friends to check out her shop, and enjoy brunch catered by Liten Up.

Susan wanted to show us that besides being a bead and jewelry supply shop, La Perlerie is a place where you can create customized, fashionable jewelry in a warm, creative, fun environment.  The photos of the event were taken by Alexandra Roxburgh.

Nadia Tasci demonstrated flameworking, creating unique glass beads by hand.  She is incredibly skilled and fascinating to watch.  She’s also a terrific teacher – back in February, she taught me to make some simple beads and even try out some more advanced techniques in just a couple hours.

Susan generously gave us all some necklaces as gifts.  It was difficult to pick just one!  Here Jen and Gail try to pick their favourite necklaces.  On the bust is one of Susan’s original necklace designs.

Here Rea shows off hers.  To customize our necklaces, Karen Lamont from Citrus stamped a sterling silver pendant with a name or message of our choice. Below, Nathalie checks out Karen’s silver stamping tools.

The idea of a sponsored brunch inspired by TFBB was all Susan’s – she is a very resourceful entrepreneur with a clever idea.  Besides being able to check out a local business in a very interactive, personal way, it was an opportunity for fashion media and entrepreneurs to make new friends, share contacts, and talk about what we are working on.

I believe it was a success – I saw connections happening.  I hope there will be future opportunities for similar small, informal events.  If you’re interested in being either a sponsor or an invitee, or if you came to the event and have ideas or suggestions for future events, please contact me.