Get Pampered at Pia Esthetics and Shop Chic Gems-Tampa

Chic Gems will be featured at Pia Esthetics
Tuesday June 15th from 6pm-9pm
20% of all sales will be donated from Chic Gems
All proceeds of services at Pia will be donated

Please join the ladies of High Hopes in High Heels to benefit the Kids Charity of Tampa Bay and Center for Women.

We hope to see you there.
Tickets are $10 at the door.

All the very best,
Sarah Radford
CEO/Designer
Chic Gems Couture
Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

The T-Shirt to Prove It, by Sherry Sexton, a Story about 25 Women Entreprenuers

I am pleased to announce that my friend Sherry Sexton has launched her book,

The T-Shirt to Prove it!

I have had the pleasure of knowing Sherry since January 2010. She was one of the first people I met when I moved to Tampa from Chicago. From the moment I met Sherry, I knew she was going to BIG places. She is someone who will always go the extra mile and genuinely cares about her clients and friends. As an Entrepreneur, I loved the concept of Sherry's book from the moment I heard about it. She has some outstanding stories of amazing women.

Click here to meet these 25 women!

I have had a sneak peak at her book and will soon have my own (autographed) copy!

Here are Sherry's own words about why she wrote this book:

"My purpose in writing this book was to inspire other women by sharing the challenges, adversities, and success of other amazing women entrepreneurs. So if you have ever dreamt of owning your own business but for some reason, never took the leap of faith or if you are a woman entrepreneur who would love additional support in any stage of business-affirming that you are not alone, this is the book for you! If that small voice inside your head keeps saying, "If only I could..." or "Someday I would love to..." then this book will motivate you to take action and live the life you have imagined."

~Sherry Sexton, author of The T-shirt to Prove it!

Sherry's book is now available on Amazon.com.

Be sure to get your copy today!

Click here to visit Sherry's website.

All the best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Discover the Chic Gems Candy Collection

Chic Gems Large Candy Bracelet

Shown in Ginger

Chic Gems Large Candy Necklace

Shown in Green Grape

Sarah Radford, CEO/Designer of Chic Gems
Wearing the Chic Gems Candy Necklace in Pink Grapefruit

Photography by Loving Legacy Photography-Angela Sackett

Hi Everyone,

I am Sarah Radford, the CEO/Designer of Chic Gems Jewelry.

I have been always had a passion for fashion.

I began Chic Gems as a side project in 2002 while I was in medical sales.

I design my line to work well into any wardrobe, from a day at the office to a night on the town.

The Chic Gems Candy Collection is my playful and modern version of pearls & baubles.

Enjoy many colors to choose from, including Blue Raspberry, Plum, Green Grape, Ginger, and Pomegranate.

I was recently excited to discover that Chicago's First Lady Maggie Daley was seen wearing the Chic Gems Candy Necklace in Plum.

Click here to see the video of Maggie Daley in Chic Gems

Thank you for reading!

As a special thank you, please feel free to use the code BLOGGER, during checkout at Chic Gems Jewelry to save 20% off your entire order until 6/20/10.

All the best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Couture Comes to Your City-Oldsmar, FL

Couture Comes to Your City

Flamestone Grill

4009 Tampa Road

Oldsmar, FL

May 27th, 28th, 29th from 5:30pm-9:00pm

Red Carpet Premier

Join us for a couture girl's night out and shopping party in celebration of

The Sex and The City 2 Movie Premier

Shop the latest affordable accessory summer collections from:

Chic Gems Couture Jewelry - meet designer Sarah Radford

Dolce Jewelry Designs-exclusive trendy jewelry designs

Tracy Zych Handbags, exclusive designer handbags from NYC

Enjoy delicious appetizers, make-up, and $3.00 Van Gogh Cosmos

This event is open to the public and FREE to attend

We look forward to seeing you there.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Couture Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Be Chic at Work with Jewelry by Chic Gems

My name is Sarah Radford and I am the Founder and Designer of Chic Gems Jewelry

Above: Sarah Radford of Chic Gems

Our beautiful Chic Gems Model....Looking amazing for a day at the office.

I began Chic Gems as a side project in 2002, while working in medical sales in Chicago.

I thought suits were boring without the appropriate accessories, hence a trip to the bead shop after learning first hand from my aunt how to construct these fantastic, head turning pieces...

A little background...

I have always had a love for fashion since I was a very young girl. Showing off my newest dress at pre-school is one of my earliest memories, in addition to playing "stylist" for my Barbies.

Over the years, I have worked with major retailers such as Express, Judith Rikpa Jewelry, and BCBG Max Azria.

I always loved fashion, but thought I needed a more serious career. I took a detour from my love of fashion and spent almost 6 years in medical sales.

I eventually got back to my passion-FASHION!

I experienced a corporate shake-up in 2006 that propelled me onto the path of entrepreneurship. Naturally I pursued my love of accessories AND fashion.

I design my collection based on several key points:

1. Everyday Style

2. Practicality

3. Affordability

4. Eye catching statement pieces

My conclusion:

I believe you should choose jewelry that compliments your personal style. if you like conservative clothing, go with traditional jewelry such as pearls and crystals. If you like to look fashion forward choose one of my couture pieces to spice up your new outfit.

I believe that my collection, Chic Gems, offers the perfect accessory that transitions from a day at the office to a night on the town.

As a special for reading my blog, enjoy 20% off any order at Chic Gems (online only) by using the code BLOGGER at checkout. Offer expires 5/30/10.

You may also call me at 888.801.8265 to place your order by phone.

Thank you for reading!

Have a fashionable day!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Photo Credits:

Jewelry by Chic Gems

Wardrobe provided by Malabar Collection

Photography by Ken Stachnik

Styling by Ruben Lopez and Brandy Flint

Make-up by Cynthia Chea and Jessica Rodriguez

Hair by Miguel Martinez

Chic Pick of the Week-The Chic Gems Starfish Necklace

The Chic Gems Starfish Necklace

Inspired by the Ocean...These gems will be sure to turn heads!

About the Starfish~

According to legend, starfish are a reflection of stars in the sky inhabiting the ocean floor. Symbolizing rebirth, starfish have a remarkable ability for regeneration. If a starfish is cut in half, two starfish will grow. An illustration of equality and teamwork, each of the limbs of the starfish work together for the benefit of the whole.

About the Chic Gems Starfish Necklace~

Golden Swarovski Crytal Starfish Pendant Necklace with Czech Crystal accent

The necklace comes with a black crystal accent, but we offer other options.

30 inches in length

Retail $60

Use the code BLOG, during checkout, to receive 20% off your entire purchase.

(Offer valid at ChicGemsEtc.com or by phone 888.801.8265 only)

Click here to buy the Chic Gems Starfish Necklace Now

Chic Gems Jewelry is all designed and handmade by designer Sarah Radford.

We offer custom designs for professional women, brides, bridesmaids, and more!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

CEO/Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Meet Amy Fabulous-The Style Muse of Chicago

Visit the Style Muse Online

The Style Muse

~Amy Fabulous Bio~

Amy Lechelt-Basta has been in the fashion and design industry for over 25 years. Most recently, as former owner of Ciao Bella Chicago boutique, Amy had the pleasure of selecting and buying clothing and accessories from throughout the world for her customers. Whether assisting with their personal style for everyday living, a special event or the how-to’s of new trends, or filling a suitcase full of interchangeable pieces for their upcoming trip, Amy was there for her clients! In addition, Amy created an event company in 1996, The Whole Big Thing, in San Francisco, which she later sold to a former client (it’s still up-and-creating today!). As an Event Designer, Amy produced, designed and collaborated with some of San Francisco’s finest. She also won several awards from The National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) while acting as Program Chair for the San Francisco chapter, as well as on a National level. And, let’s not stop here…Amy was also a Flight Attendant for United Airlines, where she learned the valuable practice of packing the perfect suitcase (not to mention wonderful “fashion-spectating” and shopping around the world!). Throughout the years, whether Amy was honing-in on her craft during her junior years working at various boutiques, performing in theatrical productions, modeling, or creating companies, one thing is clear, Amy’s style experience is well-rounded. Stylist, personal shopping, in-store merchandising, musing a space, or packing strategist, Amy Fabulous knows how to muse a stylin’ opportunity into reality!

A Special for Chic Gems Blog Readers~

Enjoy $50 off your spring wardrobe makeover! A $275 value for only $225. Be sure to mention Chic Gems when you call Amy to schedule your appointment.

Call Amy today at 847.331.9790.

Happy Shopping!

All the best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chicago Loop Holiday Shopping Event Featuring Chic Gems and Beijo Handbags

Hey Chic Gem Gals!

Looking for chic gifts for your friends or family? The holidays are right around the corner and this is the perfect time to pick up fabulous gifts on any budget. I would love for you to come out to my holiday shopping event that’s going on in the Chicago Loop!

Join us at 525 W. Van Buren Lobby on December 2nd and 3rd from 8am-2:30pm on Wedneday and 8am-6pm on Thursday.

Enjoy special holiday discounts, up to 70% off, and a free gift with purchase from Chic Gems. Beijo Bags Handbag Specialist, Kathleen Herrebout, will also be at this event. You will discover the perfect handbags to spice up your daily wardrobe from Beijo Bags.

Need one more reason to come? Complimentary gifts with purchase….oooh lala!

Hope to see you there!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Holiday Shopping Event with Chic Gems at Aniko Salon & Spa

Hey Chic Gem Gals,

Get ready for all your holiday parties with Chic Gems and Aniko Salon & Spa!

Aniko Salon & Spa will be hosting a fantastic shopping event with Chic Gems at Aniko Salon & Spa on December 8th, 14th, & 18th from 1pm-7pm and again on Saturday December 19th from 9am-6pm. This even is open to the public and FREE to attend!

Come get your last minute holiday shopping done at Aniko Salon & Spa! Shop Chic Gems, Etc. and meet the designer Sarah Radford. Chic Gems will be offering exclusive discounts and gifts with purchase for Aniko Salon clients. Additionally, guests will enjoy the "Give & Receive" promotion, spend $100 on Chic Gems and receive a $10 Aniko Salon & Spa gift card for you!

You will discover an array of stylish & affordable fashion jewelry that is perfect to wear at the office or out on the town. Chic Gems offers several Collections to choose from: Bridal, Signature, Design Your Own, and the NEW Couture Collection. There is something for everyone.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, Etc.

Designer Jewelry For Professional Women

Shop In Chicago at The Drake Hotel with Raymi Productions and Chicago's Top Designers

Hey Chic Gem Gals,

Chic Gems Etc. will be joining Raymi Productions in an exclusive boutique shopping event, Shop IN Chicago, on December 2nd from 5:00pm to 9:00pm. The event will take place in the historic and beautiful Drake Hotel in the Drake Bros. Restaurant and is open to the public and, most impostantly, is FREE to attend!

For one night only, come check out the all the talented Chicago designers that will be offering specials on pricing and featured goods uniquely for Shop IN Chicago. Featured designers include: Chic Gems, CC Bella, Eclectica by Vika, The Perfect Gift for Anyone, Zamrie, Satin Silhouette, Liliana Haute Couture, Sofia Forero, The 3 Hearts Inc, Tzen Boutique, Red Bliss Bling, Ooh-La-La, BroZac Bling & Things, Kiwi's Boutique, Rough Cut Emerald Designs, Ms Catwalk, Chocolate Sushi Couture and The F@B

A great event to get in all your holiday shopping!

And the excitement doesn't stop there! During the event there will also be a raffle benefitting non-profit PAVE (Promoting Awareness Victim Empowerment). Along with that, Dior will be offering complimentary sampling from their professional make-up artists and Aniko Salon & Spa will be offering complimentary manicures for all shoppers. So you can pamper yourself while shopping!

Can't wait to see you all there!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, Etc.

Designer Jewelry For Professional Women

CRAVE Winter Wonderland Party-Featuring Chic Gems Jewelry

Chic Gems is pleased to announce that we will be part of the CRAVE Winter Wonderland Party!

This party is a fashionista's dream come true! Bring your girlfriends for an exciting evening of opulence and magical events!

Join us Wednesday December 9th from 7pm-10pm

at the luxurious & historic Stan Mansion

2408 N Kedzie

Chicago, IL

Details:

Baby, it’s cold outside!

Join the Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty on December 9th to find your perfect holiday ensemble from one of Chicago’s most fabulous designers and boutiques, all of which will be under one roof! No need to travel from boutique-to-boutique, we have them all here!

A CRAVEparty is an exclusive, festive, glam-gal gathering of fun, entertainment, personal pampering, and sippin’ and noshin’ on great food.

FASHION & SIPS

Take advantage of the exclusive opportunity to view the season’s chicest fashions from Chicagoland’s favorite boutiques, while enjoying gratis treats & sips!

SPA & SOOTHE

Indulge in complimentary mini-spa services to soothe your holiday-time stresses!

GIFTS GALORE

Don’t be greedy! Shop for some fabulous gifts for those special people in your life!

Chic Gems, Barker & Meowsky, Ladysmith Jewelry, Love Lulu Mae, Stiletto Squad, and many more!

AND MORE…

Enjoy yourself by sipping something delicious, getting a mini-manicure courtesy of Aniko Salon & Spa, and shopping for your glamorous holiday time ensemble, all while viewing a fabulous fashion show and other entertaining acts including a dance performance by Intrigue and a musical performance by Backbeat Music Instruction!

Our Hostesses with the Mostess are Nancy Loo and Felicia Joy. Be dazzled by the most gorgeous jewelry this city’s designers have to offer! Listen to tunes via Toast & Jam Bring your girlfriends to this one-of-a-kind event and we’ll see you off in high spirits… with a great goody bag in tow!

Find yourself with intuitive card readings by Nourhy! Taste some amazing treats including delicious cookies from Chocolate Gourmet! Become enthralled with the endless holiday gift ideas for kids & pets and everyone in between that you’ll discover at various booths!

Enjoy delicious Solixir sparkling botanical beverages and Dry Soda! Intuitive Toe Readings offered by Rhanda; a tradition from India for emotional healing

Throughout the night, we will have great raffles including gift certificates to some of our favorite Chicago restaurants and a chance to win a tour and tasting for 10 people at The Lynfred Winery!

{Must be 21 and over to attend. Tickets non-transferable.}
{Tickets will NOT be sold at the door; please purchase online.}

All registered guests of the Winter Wonderland CRAVEparty are invited to join us at the after-party hosted by Jbar where you will be treated to a complimentary CRAVE cocktail and a special performance by KeysNKrates!

Click here to register now for the CRAVE Winter Wonderland Party

Hurry...tickets will not be sold at the door and they will sell out!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Martini and Manicure Mondays at Aniko Salon, Featuring Chic Gems

Hey Chic Gem Gals!

Want to come to a fantastic event that I am going to be a part of? I thought so!

On Monday, November 23rd clear your schedules after 7pm and come on over to

Aniko Salon and Spa located at 1109 S. Wabash in Chicago.

It’s Martini and Manicure night!

There you will enjoy a Fusion Manicure, Complimentary Aniko Flirtinis “Apple Martinis”, Desserts provided by Be Sweet, and each guest will receive a FREE gift bag filled with gifts from our sponsors and much more!

I’ll be there with my Chic Gems Signature, Chic Gems Couture, and Design your own Gems Collection. Take advantage of designing your own custom piece or shop for chic holiday gifts.

Click here to preview Chic Gems online.

Chic Gems makes a perfect gift for that hard-to-shop for friend who has everything! Special jewelry discounts for Aniko guests, raffle prizes, and more. Oh and the best part, this great event is only $40! But don’t delay- there are only 30 manicure appointments available each month and appointments are booked on a first come first serve basis.

Please RSVP to book your appointment by calling Aniko Salon at (312) 431-1573.

Hope to see you there!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

**Note: You must pre-pay either at Aniko or via phone, in order to reserve your manicure appointment. No refunds will be issued. If you need to cancel your appointment we require a 48-hour cancellation notice and will only offer an Aniko credit good towards any other service at Aniko Salon Spa. This promotion cannot be combined with other discount or promotions. Gratuity is not included and must be paid in cash only.

Must Have Jewelry-Chic Gems Couture Flower Pendant Necklace

Chic Gems Couture Flower Pendant Necklace

Regular Price $150

Sale Price for Blog Readers $112.50

Special Deal for Readers-25% off with the code BLOG25 at checkout.

Enjoy 25% off all Chic Gems Jewelry with this code.

Exclusions: This offer cannot be combined with other coupons or discounts, valid only at Chic Gems directly by phone or online, not valid at independent boutiques that carry Chic Gems, no cash value.

Click Here to Buy the Chic Gems Couture Flower Pendant Necklace Now

Order online or call 888.801.8265

The Couture Flower Pendant Necklace by Chic Gems is the must have statement piece this season.

Choose from Oyster, Bronze, or Smoke or Multi-Color Pearls (as shown)

Flower Pendant is made of Bali Silver

Necklace is 20 inches long, made of glass pearls and a sterling plated chain and hook closure.

Happy Shopping!

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Featured at ECOChallenge 2020 to Benefit Peace Journey at Juvenesse Spa

Chic Gems invites you to Juvenesse Spa to Benefit Peace Journey

Chic Gems is Proud to Support Peace Journey

Juvensse Spa

520 W Erie St., Suite 340

Chicago, IL 60654

20% of Chic Gems Jewelry sales from the evening will be donated. Chic Gems has also created 2 special "Peace" Necklaces that will also be for sale at this event.

Take the EcoChallenge 2020! Peace Journey Brazil 2010 Launch Party!
Juvenesse Spa, originators of the PeaceSPA product line, located at 520 West Erie, Suite 340 on The United Nations International Day of Peace on Monday, September 21, 2009 launches ECOChallenge2020 Peace Journey Brazil 2010 and PeaceSPA products.
The Program & School Garden fundraising event will be held from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. and will include organic wines by Mionetto USA, healthy treats by Carnivale, a silent auction, raffle, donations by Chic Gems Etc., music & more. Celebrity Chefs, Educators, SuperGreen Sponsors, Master Gardeners, Social Media Gurus and ECOChallenge2020 rooftop garden particpant, Mark T. Skinner Classical School will also be in attendance. A group of students from Skinner school are set to play instruments and perform "peace songs" at the evening event.

Visit ECOChallenge2020.org for further information, to make donations, or purchase tickets for the event.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc. Jewelry

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

New Press from Chicago 3 Media at Chic Gems Couture Trunk Show

NEW! Chic Gems Couture

by Sarah Radford

Thank you to everyone who joined us for my first Chic Gems Couture Trunk Show!

The event took place this past Saturday at Claudia Kleiner's Malabar Collection in Chicago.

Our shoppers enjoyed purusing the newest designs from Chic Gems.

Chicago 3 Media stopped by to visit with us

click here to watch the Chicago 3 Media coverage

Visit our newly revamped Chic Gems website-click here to shop.

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Couture Trunk Show at Claudia Kleiner Malabar Collection

NEW! Couture Black Glam Necklace

Sarah Radford, Designer of Chic Gems Couture is hosting an exclusive Trunk Show at The Claudia Kleiner Malabar Boutique in Bucktown. Shoppers will enjoy a complimentary wine tasting by PRP Wine and discover the NEW Chic Gems Couture Collection. Special discounts on the entire Chic Gems Collection. Save 10-70% off.

Shoppers will be able to choose from a wide assortment of Chic Gems Jewelry and will discover the NEW Chic Gems Couture and Chic Gems Signature Collections. Enjoy special discounts and have the opportunity to meet Chic Gems designer Sarah Radford.

The event will be held at:
Claudia Kleiner Malabar Boutique
1872 N Damen Avenue Chicago, IL 60647

Saturday August 29th from 11:00 am-7:00pm.

Admission is free and there will be a complimentary wine tasting by PRP Wine for shoppers. Shoppers will be able to enter to win a FREE pair of Chic Gems Couture Earrings, valued at $40.

Click here to RSVP for the Chic Gems Couture Trunk Show

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems is a Sponsor for Taste of the Gold Coast

Chic Gems is a Proud Sponsor of Taste of the Gold Coast

Hosted by Raymi Productions

Wednesday August 26th from 6pm-9pm

The Sutton Place Hotel

21 E Bellvue Place

Chicago, IL

For more information:

Call 312.730.8262

Visit Raymi Productions

Tickets are $60 in advance, $70 at the door.

Click here to purchase your tickets to Taste of the Gold Coast

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Click here to purchase your tickets to Taste of the Gold Coast

Chic Gems Featured at Diva Series Reunion Party in Chicago Hosted by Maven

Sarah Radford of Chic Gems Featured at The Diva Series Reunion Party

Thursday August 20, 2009 from 8pm-11pm

Boka Restaurant

1729 N Halsted

Chicago, IL 60614

Sponsored by Maven and Chicago Social

Enjoy passed select hors d' oeuvres

Special Diva Cocktail

Special gift bag for Divas

Special giveaways for Divas

$20 ticket with proceeds to benefit PAVE

A special event for past & future Divas-celebrating a year of honoring influential women in Chicago

Chic Gems will be for sale at this event-shop the newest Gems from the Signature and Couture Collections

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Featured at River City to Benefit PAVE and Factio Magazine

Designer Sarah Radford, of Chic Gems, at River City Condos

Hey there Chic Gems Gals,

Thank you to everyone who attended the Chic Gems trunk show to benefit PAVE. PAVE (Promoting Awareness, Victim Empowerment) is a national grassroots non-profit. PAVE uses education and action to shatter the silence of sexual and domestic violence. PAVE's work has been featured on the Today show, CNN, and in TIME.

To learn more about PAVE, visit them at their website PavingTheWay.net

In other exciting news, we were recently featured in Factio magazine. Chic Gems, Etc. was chosen to be showcased in a editorial shoot with Malabar Boutique.

Chic Gems Featured in Factio Magazine

To purchase this Rose Quartz Necklace, from Chic Gems, click here

Finally, here are a couple pieces to get you pumped for the couture line which will be available online this fall.

Chic Gems Couture Pearl & Flower Necklace

Chic Gems Couture Black Onyx & White Quartz with Pearl Necklace

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women

Chic Gems Jewelry Summer Collection Sale

Hey there, Chic Gem Gals!

Don't forget to take a look at the Summer Sale going on right now at

Chic Gems, Etc.

Just use the code "FINAL" during check out at Chic Gems, or

call 888-801-8265 to order by phone to save 50% off your entire purchase now through August 14th.

Offer valid at ChicGemsEtc.com or by phone at 888-801-8265 only, not valid at independent boutiques that carry Chic Gems, no cash value, cannot be combined with other offers, not valid on previous purchases.

The current Chic Gems Collection will be discontinued to make way for all of the new Gems! Be sure to get them while you can...

All the very best,

Sarah Radford

Designer

Chic Gems, Etc.

Designer Jewelry for Professional Women