Recently, we had the chance to host a virtual Q&A with Dalex, where we had the opportunity to learn a little more about her and her jewelry making.
I was learning more about my traditional culture and my husband’s Métis heritage. I also found myself inspired by Indigenous bead workers on Instagram. There are so many good ones!
Quilts. 90’s TV/Movie sets and fashion. Traditional Gitxsan and Squamish designs. I love a good colour palette.
Thank you so much! Perfecting a design can take weeks. Once it’s finalized, creating a pair takes three to eight hours.
Making jewelry is my job. I don’t have a big jewelry collection, but every piece I have has a story. Most of my pieces were gifts from loved ones, like my grandma or my husband. The pieces I bought memorialized an important memory for me, like my wedding, or a trip.
The Granny Square earrings I make are definitely a favourite of mine that I reach for often. I love wearing neutrals so they’re a fun way to add a little pop of colour to my outfits. I also almost never take off my engagement ring and wedding band by Leah Alexandra and Ok Fine!
I do identify as an Indigenous artist. However, my earrings don’t stand for my Indigenous culture. My designs reflect my whole identity as a person, which includes much more than my heritage. Having said that, beading is a medium seen in a lot of nations, and it’s made its way to the West Coast through cultural sharing. I don’t only focus on traditional patterns, but as a West Coast artist interested in contemporary designs, I feel like I can bring something new to the beading medium.
Not really! I always have so many ideas in my head and never enough time to try them all!
I’m a huge homebody so probably Sunday morning coffee in bed with my husband and dog, followed by a nice walk to get brunch on a patio. Finish it off with takeout and a movie!
Gold, always.
I’m a morning person!
Necklaces… oops!
Sneakers.
You saved the hardest question for last. If I had to pick… dogs!
Find Studio Dal jewelry in-store only, at Violette Boutique.
]]>When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, we know there are a lot of factors to consider. For example, budget, style, ethically sourced metals and gemstones and lastly, turning dreams into reality. An engagement ring will hold so much meaning, and you or your significant other deserves something that's just right.
With our ongoing partnership with Vale Jewelry, our expert ring liaison, Erin, works closely with Vale to design the ring of your dreams. Sit back and relax while our ring liaison handles all direct communication with Vale. All of your decisions will be communicated swiftly to the team at Vale, while you focus on you and your significant other during this exciting time.
We recommend you taking a look at our current selection from Vale here incase we already have your perfect ring.
If you are ready to move forward with a custom ring, you are welcome to head to Vale's website to take a look at their a-Vale-able options. You can do so here.
We encourage you to reach out to us as soon as possible, especially if you are working with a specific timeframe or budget, or, even if you feel overwhelmed by your options!
Please email info@violetteboutique.com to get in touch with our expert ring liaison.
Vale Jewelry is located in the diamond district in New York City. This means that they have one the largest selections of diamonds and gemstones at their fingertips. Vale works with yellow, white and rose gold.
With this in mind, Vale is wonderful at working from various budgets, and are able to source exactly what you are looking for within your price range because of their location in the diamond district.
After carefully selecting each component of your ring, Vale sends a 3D model for you to review. Once you've approved the first rendition, you will receive a photo of the mold of your ring as the final step before your design is set in stone, literally!
Diamonds are fabulous, we can't deny it. Although, it's totally okay to want a different kind of gemstone instead; in fact, we encourage you to be uniquely yourself, whatever that means for you!
Vale specializes in unique and one-of-a-kind rings, that "break the mold".
Whether you want something simple or spectacular, we understand how special this process is and we are committed to making your dreams come true. We will be there every step of the way, because you deserve it.
Please reach out to info@violetteboutique.com, and we'd be happy to help you create the ring of your dreams with Vale.
]]>This individual may be a mother, friend, sister, grandmother, aunt or cousin. No matter who they are, it feels wonderful to show love and appreciation to those who've been there through thick and thin.
If you're looking for something on the affordable end, candles are always a lovely gift to receive. Check out our selection of botanical candles here. They also make a great addition to a bouquet of flowers and a cute card.
For flowers, we love shopping at Zingaro, Rook and Rose and Boxwood Flower Farm. All three places make lovely arrangements and bouquets to warm one's heart.
Although, it you want to take it one step further, we carry a number of jewelry pieces under $65. Our current favourites in this price range are the Tiny Twist Huggies, the Simone Studs and the Demi Bubble Necklace (pictured below).
If you're looking for jewelry, we recommend sticking with a piece you know they already wear. By this we mean, if they tend to wear earrings a lot, pick out a lovely new pair! Our favourite go-to pieces right now are the Joan Hoops (pictured below), the 10K Singapore Chain Bracelet and the Alight Necklace.
We understand more than ever that picking something out for someone you care about can be tricky; even when you know them well. Luckily we have our two-week store exchange policy, so there's no need to fret if a jewelry piece just isn't the right fit.
One of the most sentimental things about purchasing jewelry for someone is that there are certain pieces that can carry significant meaning.
Our favourite jewelry brand for meaningful gifts is Pyrrha. Their various talisman necklaces and bracelets are a perfect way to translate your feelings for someone into a lovely gesture. We want to highlight the Mother Bear Talisman Necklace, My Delight Talisman Necklace, Watch Over Me Talisman Necklace and the Selflessness Talisman Necklace.
If you're looking to gift a piece of jewelry that will last the test of time, solid gold should be your go-to. We know solid gold can be a bit of an investment, but these pieces last so long they can become family heirlooms. Gold-fill is also a wonderful middle ground as the gold will last longer than a typical gold-plated piece.
Here are a few of our favourite solid gold pieces as of late: the 14K Flat Drawn Cable Bracelet, the 10K Heart Studs, 10K Prosecco Ring and the Petite Keshi Pearl Ring (pictured below).
I hope that our guide has given you a little inspiration! We look forward to helping you find the right gift in-store or online.
Don't forget to grab a card on your way out of the shop!
]]>
Remember, you can always trim away the background of a photo. Ample space ensures you can fit the subject in the frame and is especially useful if you have a fun shaped locket.
When you want to fit two people in the frame, make sure their faces are close together. Otherwise, someone might not make the crop.
If you still want to use a photo with subjects that are far apart, try to find a locket shape that provides extra space where you need it. For example, this photo works a lot better in an oval locket than a round one.
The whole point is to keep the people and memories you love close to your heart.
The good news is that there are two sides to every locket, so you don't have to pick just one photo.
You can use Leah Alexandra’s locket guide to get your photo down to the perfect size and shape for all the LAJ lockets at Violette.
If you have any questions about fitting a photo into a locket you purchased at Violette, don't hesitate to send us an email at info@violetteboutique.com.
]]>Having just received a new shipment of gemstone rings from the creative duo, we thought it was about time to catch up.
We were searching desperately for a jewelry brand out there that we would love to wear every day, not necessarily special occasion jewelry, but pieces that would feel like second skin. There weren’t many brands out there that were made locally or felt like they vibed with our aesthetic while still being relatively affordable. So we went and made our own!
Starting any business is a challenge but doing it with a sibling comes with its own unique challenges. The plus side baked into that dynamic is a chance to work with someone you unconditionally love and enjoy spending time with. You can really hash out issues with someone you are super close to but it can also lead to epic arguments so we make every effort to separate our personal lives from our work lives.
There is absolutely a sense of joy and freedom in being able to create something that you’ve dreamed of in your head and turning it into something real, defined, physical and that ultimately is a fun adornment. That part never gets old. Even if the piece doesn’t quite come out looking like what you expected.
Colorful gems have always been fascinating to us. When we were young, our parents used to take us to markets, sometimes they even worked there, and for a bunch of kids with way too much energy, having the ability to run around from stall to stall, seeing things that always felt new and interesting, really left a lasting impression. We get the same thrill looking at new stones, new cuts, new shapes.
No doubt, it’s such a joy and a constant surprise to be surrounded by a vibrant and truly mixed community, not just other artists, but everyone expressing themselves in their own way, mish-moshed into a loud and colorful mess. It’s endlessly inspiring. We work with stylists and designers that are a source of inspiration.
There’s been so many incredibly romantic stories but one of our favorites was a proposal on a hot air balloon over the Serengeti when our client Matt proposed to his partner Alix with an emerald ring. The sun was setting and just the thought of a migration of millions of gazelles, zebras and wildebeests racing across the dry, dusty plains sounds like something out of a movie.
We’re still reaching for one of our classic diamond slice necklaces, layering that with our rosary chains and mixing that up with some vintage link chains. Our new collection of amulets and medallions are perfect to dress up an otherwise always-black NYC wardrobe. Gold works wonders on everything!
It’s always safety first in our book, so no trips yet, the only ones we’ve taken are through the pleasures of Anthony Bourdin travelogues and travel shows in French because we’re learning the language and it’s a nice way to practice listening comprehension while dreaming of places we would visit when we finally get that booster shot.
Yellow gold and platinum.
Diamonds everyday with pearls thrown in on the occasions you want something more retro and more lady-like.
We would probably say a mix because why choose when curating a set is always more interesting.
All depends on the mood! But hoops for beach vacays is a must.
Both, of course!
Tropical most of the time but, every once in a while, a snowy hike is all you need to refresh your outlook.
Sneakers easily, though the irony is that we own a lot more stilettos than we do sneakers.
]]>Now that we have completely justified a guilt-free shopping spree…. Where to shop?
To make this decision easy, we’ve assembled a Local Shopping Guide featuring some of our favourite independent businesses in Victoria.
With serious attention to detail, Hey Happy! is always brewing up magic in their seasonal signature drink menu. Try the cashew latte or anything made with their homemade cashew milk.
Surrounded by independent boutiques on charming Lower Johnson Street, Hey Happy! is a great starting point for your local shopping excursion, but an even better midday oasis if you’ve already shopped ‘til you dropped.
Sherwood’s spacious, modern and versatile interior features tables, barstools and a takeaway menu so you can enjoy a satisfying meal or a quick drink on the run. Located across the street from Victoria’s City Hall on Douglas and Pandora, you’re only steps away from the best local shops.
This Lower Johnson shop seamlessly doubles as a flower shop and lifestyle store, offering only the most beautiful objects to enhance your life and home.
Plus, the dried floral arrangements are otherworldly.
Boutique parfum house meets European style flower shop on Lower Johnson Street and the result is Zingaro.
Don’t forget to test each fragrance while taking in the lush greenery that reaches every corner and crevice of the space.
Don’t miss Open House—a shop discreetly positioned in Victoria’s Paper Box Arcade—as you stroll down Johnson Street. Locally sourced, handmade fashion and décor items adorn the shelves of this neutral toned shop. You’re sure to find a handwoven basket bag or knit cardigan beautiful enough to double as home décor among the selection of hand thrown ceramics and other little luxuries.
Prepare to discover home décor with abundant personality at Paboom—a unique shop that can’t be contained within one category. Located on Store Street in Market Square, Paboom carries objects with stories that will breathe new life into your home.
A central craft brewery with indoor seating and a spacious patio in Market Square. The beautiful heritage buildings that frame the square are home to many small brick and mortar boutiques, making Whistle Buoy the perfect place to scout out your next stop. You can also BYOF (bring your own food)!
Wander over to Bastion Square at the end of your shopping day for an incredible selection of wine, cocktails and coastal cabin food at Wind Cries Mary. The restaurant has indoor seating and an outdoor patio in the square. But, weather permitting, try to get a spot in their secret courtyard for a super cozy evening.
Priestess offers lash, nail, microblading, waxing, and tinting services out of a spacious, white, plant filled studio in Canada’s oldest Chinatown. Its female co-founders named the studio after the High Priestess tarot card to represent their knowledgeable and intuitive approach to beauty. Stop by the studio in Fan Tan Alley with your beauty goals in mind and let the Priestess team bring them to life.
Our neighbours from two doors down on Lower Johnson Street are expert curators when it comes to introducing emerging trends to local tastes. Still Life has been a go-to fashion boutique in Victoria since 1984 and continues to offer a mix of local designers and international brands.
If you love designer fashion, take a stroll down Government Street towards the parliament buildings and stop by Bernstein and Gold on Yates. This contemporary womenswear boutique focuses on fashion and lifestyle items from sought after brands within Canada and internationally.
Citizen is another gem tucked into Lower Johnson Street. The owner's values of high quality and timeless design translate into beautiful, simplistic pieces that adorn their shelves. With various brands available in the shop—including their own basics line—Citizen is a go-to for wardrobe staples that will endure the test of time.
A one stop shop for high end contemporary pieces, Outlooks is something of a Victoria menswear institution. Stop by the downtown location on Yates Street to collaborate with the staff on a new outfit from tip to toe, or a new sweater to last a lifetime.
A modern dining spot featuring seasonal, organic brunch and dinner menus, Agrius would be the perfect way to kick off or wrap up a day of downtown shopping. Don’t skip the charcuterie or wood-fired pizza if you’re popping in for dinner.
Based in Victoria’s Chinatown, Dumpling Drop offers a unique dining experience. Dine in, takeaway, or grab a bag of frozen dumplings to enjoy at home. The menu is delicious and you won’t want to leave before taking a look at the merch.
Nestled in the corner of Victoria’s historic Trounce Alley, Bodega offers a warm atmosphere in which to enjoy Spanish tapas, cocktails and wine. If there’s a wait to get in, take the opportunity to explore Trounce Alley and stroll down Government Street.
Set in Victoria’s eco-conscious—and award winning—Atrium building, this trattoria serves Italian soul food. The dinner menu is inspired by the head chef’s Italian heritage as well as seasonal and local ingredients, so bring a healthy appetite.
If you’re looking to discover even more independent businesses lining the streets of Downtown Victoria, dive into the DVBA’s Small Business Month features on their Instagram profile and blog.
We partnered with Taryn to display one of her most recent works entitled ‘Dos Reinas,’ which is now available to view and purchase at Violette Boutique.
We sat down with the artist herself to learn more about her process as well as the significance of jewelry as it pertains to her art.
To me it represents luxury and status in my work, like the jewelry that ancient queens and goddesses would wear in our first civilizations. Throughout history we have used gold as a symbol of power and importance and we still have not evolved beyond these status symbols. Maybe we never will. Why are we drawn to jewelry and hierarchy? It's so innate that we don't question it. It's not just something pretty we put on; the symbolism is intrinsically linked to our psyche. And damn it looks good.
I have been obsessed with jewelry my whole life! The women in my world growing up were serious collectors; I mean I’ve inherited so many beautiful vintage and antique pieces that I almost need a storage unit! I have several sets that I don't even wear because of their age and delicacy. But I collect too and I'm sure my daughters will inherit this obsession also.
That's like choosing a favourite child lol! I love them all for different reasons but mostly because I can't do the same thing over and over again; I need the uncertainty of discovery which is why my work is in constant evolution.
Literally never. My problem is that my ideas keep me up at night and I never have enough time to explore them all. I sketch constantly to brain dump them but they still build up and drive me to distraction.
As a kid I was labeled an 'airhead' because I was constantly analyzing the world around me and in my head too much. As a teenager I got better at hiding this but I feel like all artists are in their head most of the time and should just embrace it whenever they can. Being present is only possible if we've had plenty of processing time.
Over the winter holidays my family and I will be heading somewhere tropical to celebrate our 15th wedding anniversary. You'll be seeing my husband for sure for a new piece!
I'm really drawn to the work of Zaha Hadid and Iris Vanherpen and how they contrast and complement each other; one being a minimalist and the other a maximalist. They are fierce femmes that I idolize and I'm sad that the world lost Zaha too early; what a visionary. On a basic level they create corrugation and have inspired me to create my own stories through pleating, folding, ridging and furrowing.
I never take off my gold Pyrrha Selflessness amulet on a solid gold chain. My husband gave it to me for our 10 year anniversary. I love the meaning behind it as a mother and a wife. My family treats me like a queen so I'm blessed to give them my all.
Beaujolais & baths. I also run and do a lot of yoga to reset.
It all started with Lea and Erin — Violette’s mother-daughter founders. Inspired by the chic, cosmopolitan shops they discovered on the Isle Saint Louis during a trip to Paris — and having identified a missing piece in Victoria’s shopping scene — the duo decided to bring a little slice of Paris back home. After months of hard work and a lot of white paint, Violette opened its doors on Government Street in October 2005.
With a team of smart and effervescent staff members by their side, Lea and Erin set out to share with the city of Victoria a selection of beautiful accessories made predominantly by emerging female Canadian designers. From the start, Violette has represented beauty for all budgets and styles.
Having launched an ecommerce site in 2014 and moving locations not once but twice, Violette has continued to evolve with its customers and the ever changing retail landscape.
Through all the highs and lows that come along with owning and operating a small business while raising a family, the duo has gained more than a little wisdom and a lot of perspective.
When asked what it’s like running a mother-daughter business Erin shares, “truthfully, it’s the best. We can be completely honest with each other. All ideas and concerns are met with truth—sometimes that’s hard but in the end we’re family and nothing can break that bond. We’re also a lot alike.”