Starrlight Jewelry - Trendy, Gothic and Fabulous.

A review by MidnightRabbits / Veganessa

One of my favourite shops on Etsy is this fabulous shop called Starrlight Jewelry .
Everything in this shop is Cruelty Free, vegan suitable.
The owner Starr has a wonderful, kind, caring spirit and is very helpful and friendly. She makes beautiful jewelry, gifts and home decor, as well as caring for many homeless cats, and raising funds for worthy animal causes. Certainly a busy lady!

I purchased this stunning necklace, made with black and red beads, and a beautiful black rose cameo. It looks gorgeous on, and I've received many lovely comments about it. I've worn it on 'dressy' occassions, as it goes very well with black clothing, of which I have many! It certainly turned a plain outfit into a glamourous one.

A look at Starrlight Jewelry will show you a good assortment of fashionable, alternative jewelry, in a Gothic/Victorian style. All unique and handmade.

If black is not your colour, then with luck, you may catch a beautiful coloured item such as this multi coloured ring, which would look gorgeous with everything, and could be worn as an evening piece or equally look good in the daytime. Just wear it with confidence, and accept the compliments!

I'm a big fan of spiders, and this brooch is one of my favourites. It's Stylish and exciting.

Starrlight Jewelry has a good assortment of jewelry at reasonable prices. Actually, considering all the time and effort that goes into creating such gorgeous, individual pieces, they are well worth the money. There's Home Decor such as fan/light pulls, to add a touch of elegance (or decadence - depending on your choice) to any room, and who could resist this adorable stich marker. If I was the lucky owner of it, I would just have to wear it as a brooch - sorry Starr - it's far too beautiful to be hidden away with knitting, it needs to be shown off, on a black jumper or wrap!

So next time you are on the internet, feast your eyes, by checking out this wonderful shop, Starrlight Jewelry and treat youself - you know you want to!

Review - Peace to All Creatures zine - Summer 09 issue

The first thing I noticed when I got my copy of the Peace to All Creatures zine was the beautiful cover artwork, which showed in vibrant colors the artists love for birds. Throughout the zine I found other gorgeous art and eye-catching photos. This zine is certainly a feast for the eyes as well as food for thought. The art showed with great visual impact that loving and helping the animals all around us is not just about sacrifice and hard work, it’s also joyful, loving, and rewarding.

I love how this slim volume covered such divergent topics, whatever your interests or current involvement in animal issues you’ll find something in this zine custom-tailored to you. Topics ranged from an amazing recipe for Choco-chunk cookies (and who doesn’t love cookies) to a humorous take on that experience familiar to all rescuers—loving an animal with hygiene, health, or odor issues. I consider myself pretty well-versed in animal issues but even I learned many new things, how artists create masterpieces out of trash and the intricate, peaceful lives of snails just to name a few. You’ll also find instructions on how to do more to help animals and reduce your environmental footprint.



I found the article on using nutrition to prevent skin cancer engrossing since skin cancer runs in my own family. Articles on freegansim and expanding our concepts of equality will challenge the reader to look a little more deeply at our culture and ourselves.

In the end, this zine certainly lives up to its name, as it shows all of us, no matter how busy we are or how much we currently do to help animals, that we really can try to bring peace to all creatures, including our fellow human creatures, and all the non-humans who share the planet with us. Many thanks to all the contributors and to editors Pippi Howard and Jessi VanPelt for bringing us this lovely and thought-provoking publication.

This Review Was Written By Neva

Review- Pitseel

The following review was written by Dirty Loves Clean.

I will do a small wrap up post about Renegade along with some photos in the near future, but for now I wanted to take a minute to tell you about a unique etsy shop, Pitseel.

She makes gourmet fake meats. I am on the end of the spectrum of non-meat eaters that grew up eating meat and (generally) liking the taste of it. To me, a meal was at least 3 parts; the meat, the side (potatoes, pasta), and the vegetable. Although I know that does not always hold true, to me a meal is more complete with a protein aspect dominating it and these fake meats are great for just that.

I recently finished eating all of my previous order (finished it off with a sample of pinenut pesto "chicken" that she sent that was amazing) and I went to make another order on her etsy site. I noticed that everything is on sale and she had a shop note stating she may not be making anymore in the future. This prompted me to message her and ask for a custom 8 pound order (will store in the freezer for 4 months). While in contact with her, she told me, "I am opening an animal rescue within the year. I am going to be going to local pounds (we have 14 acres where we are going, so I just need a kennel license as well as some kind of shelter. I am at my maximum of 3 rescues already, and need a license after that) and bringing home the pets that are to be euthanized soon..".
I think this is an awesome thing to do and I just wanted to help her out and tell everyone, buy her food(or other products), they're great! AND youre helping out a shelter start up.

Or you can also donate here:

Review- Starrlight Jewelry

We have several really pretty collar charms from Starrlight Jewelry that add a nice touch of bling to Emma & Rowan's collars. I swear that Emma even gets a little bit of a swagger in her walk when she wears them. :)

If you'd like some charms for collars, zippers or anything else you'd like to decorate, make sure to check out her shop. She has a great variety of items for all tastes and they're definitely priced right! You'll also receive fast, friendly service, which is certainly always welcome.

Right now, I'm giving away a free charm with every cookbook purchase in my shop. This is only until supplies last, so if you want yours don't wait! Not only will you have a bunch of healthy recipes and a charm to spoil a dog with, but you'll also be helping support Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary because 100% of profits from my sales go to them.

Home Sweet (Vegan) Home.

I'm moving! Again. I've moved about a hundred times, and as usual, it's exciting, stressful, and traumatic all rolled into one. Obviously, this calls for some retail (or, should I say, Etsy) therapy! The funnest part about having a new space is making that space feel cozy and welcoming, and making it look beautiful. Where better to find objects to accomplish just that than among those fashioned by the Vegan Etsy Team?

Vessels and Wares (can I call you Jeanette?), you slay me! Nothing in the world is more comforting than a nice cup of tea, and it appears that you've gone and created the perfect, well, vessel! As Jeanette says, "Rad + awesome = this teapot." I couldn't agree more! And once the oolong is brewed, I'd of course need one of your gorgeous mugs to pour it into - how cute is this tumbler with the cherry blossom? It reminds me of the tiny flowers that are starting to burst forth from trees all over the neighborhood. (See? It really is spring!) The new pad has this awesome sort of built-in mini china cabinet in the hall; both of these objects would look just fantastically classic nestled there when not in use.

One thing that I have always loved to have in the house is plants. I've even gotten good at keeping them alive - I've had my two money trees for three and a half years now, thank you very much. The new place has a long narrow room across the front with basically wall to wall picture windows, and I plan to fill it with green! Thanks to the hilarious Allison of Monkeys Always Look, now I can populate all of our windowsills - and man do we have some windowsills - with gorgeous succulents in one-of-a-kind plantings! I've already gotten one pointy lil' guy in a beautiful white Waterford teacup (Maurice). I was so thrilled with him that I immediately ordered a second, a "topsy turvey" in a baby blue dessert cup who I named Topsy. He I got him Friday - he's magnificent! That evening I decided that three's company, and ordered a third in a black espresso mug who is on its way - I'll name him when I meet him. Allison is a sheer pleasure to do business with, and I couldn't be more pleased with my little planty friends. And I'm certainly nowhere near finished ordering from her! I've especially got my eye on a couple of the string-of-pearls numbers; they're just too amazing, and they make me think of something my grandmother the brilliant gardener would have loved. (By the bye, Allison, you've inspired me - I've planted my funky lil' cactus in an old mug that I got on a road trip through South of the Border! Pictures are forthcoming... his name is Pedro. :)

Is it possible to have a big grin on my face the minute I get to the apartment and flip the light switch? Could it ever be so simple to feel happy and comfortable in a new home? Well, I believe it just might be with this squirrelly little number from AguaVino! After all, Mrs. Squirrel (in her stylish plaid apron) is already cooking me up a nice acorn stew. And Mr. Squirrel is ready to entertain us through the whole meal with his wild tales of the forest floor! It's the perfect combination of nature and nurture. These two would cheer up any room in the house, but what better to grace a new kitchen with? (I could say they're just plain nutty, but Jonathan-the-fiance says that puns aren't funny. But I disagree! And I already said it! Ha!)

Now, about the new bathroom. It's, well, bright yellow! Yellow tiling on the walls, odd yellow-olive tiling on the floor... very, very different from the all-white that I'm moving out of. So, what's the best way to break in a new bathroom? Delicious new soaps of course! I'm very particular about my scents, and I like to have a variety, so the pick-three option from Tami's Soapworks really sounds like the ticket. Hmm, let me see: vanilla sandalwood, vanilla raspberry, and green tea honeysuckle? Am I picking soap or making smoothies?! Sunbath has a wonderful selection of handmade soaps as well; I highly suggest the brown sugar and vanilla - which incidentally would make a fabulous Mother's Day present. (Don't forget your moms, y'all! Mother's day is just around the corner, and moms do like to be pampered.) With all these delicious scents, I'll just sink into the luxury and soon enough all that yellow tile will be a beacon of my new happyplace.

After a nice bath in our big new bathtub - and did I mention it's got a shower curtain that curves around the back?! - I might need to moisturize a lil bit. My skin is just that way, always has been. No worries, Daisy Wares has me covered with her whipped shea body butter. Roni, the shop proprietor, has specified that even though this "butter" looks good enough to eat, don't! It does look completely edible, and the temptation will be particularly terrible because I plan to order it in Vanilla flavor - er, I mean, scent. After a long day of unpacking, a girl just needs this kind of pampering. Hell, what day doesn't a girl need this kind of pampering? And after the winter we just went through in NYC, my skin is dying for some TLC anyway!


So, once we're settled in and the place looks spectacular, we'll want to have the nearest and dearest over to show off, right? I think so. And when that happens, I'll want to serve scrumptious vegan food - that's just a given. But how ever will I serve it? Why, on a gorgeous platter from Vegan Dish - how else? (In case you're wondering, yes that IS the handiwork of our talented Jeanette once again!) So, how much do I love the stars stamped into the attachment points of the handles? SO MUCH! It's these careful details that really make her lines of pottery shine. This piece could be perfect for Jonathan's signature seitan satay skewers. Or even my vegan red velvet cupcakes - gotta love the semi-complimentary tones of pink icing on this striking blue dish. My omni friends may just be so awe-struck at the beauty of our vegan delicacies on this amazing piece of art that they turn to the green side on the spot. Ya think? Hey, anything is possible.

What makes a house a home? For the most part, the love and happiness that are shared there. But accoutrements that make it pleasant and inviting sure don't hurt! Making a move is a trial for body and spirit, and a few beautiful and comforting objects can certainly help to soften the blow. I'm chomping at the bit to buy each and every one of these delightful treats - but not until we figure out how to pay May's rent! (And for that matter, June's.) And so you might just beat me to a few of them. But that's alright. As long as there's a Vegan Etsy Team, I know there will be an endless supply of just-the-right-thing whenever I'm ready for it.

Hearts,
Melissa Bastian

Review- Choco-A-Go-Go

This review was written by Melissa of Bright and Libellule.

Ahh, Easter time. For some a religious time, for many a celebration of the emergence of spring - and candy! Chock full of jellybeans, foil wrapped eggs and bunny rabbits, marshmallow peeps - in short, "treats" full of animal products! What's a vegan with a sweet tooth (like me) to do?

Lucky for me, I happened to stumble upon Choco-a-go-go's Big Peanut Butter Bun Bun. It was gorgeous, it was chocolate, it was bunny shaped, and best of all it was full of peanut butter! Could something so marvelously beautiful, so perfect, so vegan, have presented itself? I couldn't believe my eyes, but then on Etsy anything is possible. Naturally, I ordered two. (One for me and one for my partner Jonathan, of course.)

Well, my bunnies came less than a week after ordering - and long before the holiday for which they had been intended. My plan was to save these delectable hoppers for the big Sunday. That plan, I am sad to say, did not come to fruition. How could it, with those beautiful, delicious looking confections just begging to be sampled? And me, the queen of no willpower? The battle was lost before it was even begun.

I ate one. The chocolate was deep and rich, very dark - a decidedly mature taste, contrary to bunny-like form. The peanut butter? Sweet but not too sweet, ever so slightly crumbly - basically, perfect. Eureka! All the fun of Easters past, civilized for the ethical adult palette!

When Jonathan asked for his bunny, I had to theorize that it had hopped away all on its own.

I've ordered Choco-a-go-go's Springtime 'n Easter box for the big weekend - and I've instructed the shop's sweet owner not to ship until the last possible minute! That way it has a chance of survival. Waiting for it, I feel like a kid who knows she'll find an Easter basket brimming with plastic grass and joy. Now if I could just get my hands on some vegan jelly beans...

Review- Uber Duper Creations

Uber Duper Creations is a shop that I've made several purchases from and I've been extremely happy with the entire experience each time. I can't recommend them enough!

Not only do they have terrific vegan dog treats that are Emma approved, but they also have gorgeous treat jars to put them in. As you can see in the above picture, Emma got her very own treat jar from them in November. It washes up easily and stores a lot of treats. We love it!

Their shop isn't just for dogs, though. We've bought several catnip toys from them for Crystal and Sophie. Crystal prefers blind strings to toys, but Sophie enjoys her toys quite a bit.

If you're looking to pamper a dog or cat in your life, check them out!

Review- Forest Nymphs and Brisil Bath & Body

The following review was written by Roni of Daisy Wares and Daisys Destash.
It's winter time and my skin is dry and itchy. Yuck. Nothing worse than being stuck in an office where everyone has their space heaters cranked up and there is nothing I can do about all the hot air blowing around just drying out my skin further.

So I was on a search for something to quench my thirst so to speak. I turned to my good friend Silvana's shop, Forest Nymphs & Brisil Bath & Body and found the perfect solution, Yerba Mate' Botancial HYDROSOL Facial Mist. This is the miracle of all miracle cures. You just spray and a comforting mist comes out to moisten that dry skin. To quote from her ad, "This facial mist is an all natural botanical hydrosol (by-product of esential oil production) made with yerba mate'for its antioxdants;chamomile and rosemary,orange, rose and our essential oil blend to calm, heal and hydrate parched dehydrated skin."

You can't get closer to earth or more natural than this. Why would you want all that alcohol and other crap on your skin when you can have a little bit of heaven to gently sink into your skin and make you feel so good. This product is highly recommended for the dry and itchy!

Review- For The Animals

I wear a necklace almost every single day and have several that say "vegan" on them that I wear quite often. It's a nice, positive way to show the world that you're vegan and it also generates some discussion. So, naturally, I was thrilled when I found For The Animals.
The best part about purchasing from For The Animals is that all proceeds go to their sanctuary, For The Animals Sanctuary and the anti-fur group that Debbie runs, Caring Activists Against Fur. Here is some information about the sanctuary that Debbie wrote-

My dream was to save a cow and her baby (son) from being exploited and murdered. I met my Vegan husband who also felt the same desires. We saved our $$ bought a house and built a barn and waited. Then we saw Herbie on the news (one week before Xmas) running for his life in Brooklyn. I cried. I called all the sanctuaries to see if he was being saved. Thankfully WFAS was rescuing him but they didn't have the room so we stepped in. At the same time Kevina was born in a dairy farm. The farmers thought she was a boy and they were drowning all the boys. Lucky for Kevina a girl that worked there brought her to WFAS. I named her Kevin (thinking she was a boy) now she is Kevina. Herbie and Kevina just got married on May 31 2008. We had about 65 guests and tons of Vegan food.

Our sanctuary is 8 acres. We are small guys but we do a lot for the Animals!! We just rescued 8 goats. 3 of the goats were really sick needing critical care treatment i.e. blood transfusions, injections and forced oral meds and were separated for 4 weeks from the rest of the goat sisters. They were scouring (massive diarrhea). They are all better now YUPPIE. Our goal for 2009 is to rescue some chickens and focus on Vegan outreach. We have an abolitionist approach to Veganism.

FTA has no volunteers. My husband and I do all the work around the farm. We both work full time in order to keep it running. I am a critical care nurse and my husband works in NYC (5 hour commute every day). We also rescue 11th hour dogs and cats. We lost 6 dogs and one cat over the past year due to health reasons (all old dogs that were going to be euthanized in a shelter). We currently have a 5 dogs one of which is blind. We recently had to put my old boy Corki (blind and had massive cardiac issues) down. That was and still is devastating I miss him so much. We have 8 cats 4 of which live out in the barn. I also run an anti fur group called Caring Activists Against Fur (caaf) www.caafgroup.com . We protest fur in NYC/NJ.

We received our 5013c in July 2008. This will make it much easier to fundraise. Our focus for 2009 will be on fundraising and finding volunteers to help us out on the farm. Its very very hard to find reliable animal loving people. Its also hard to compete with the larger sanctuaries. We try and make it fun to come over i.e. Vegan potlucks with themes like the wedding we had a baby shower when they arrived.....If anyone has ides please share. The more donations we get the more we can do out here in NJ farm land. The awesome thing is i am a nurse in the local hospital. I do Vegan outreach every day I am at work. I wear my jewelry and it get the conversation started. Its awesome.

As you can see, Debbie and her husband are wonderful, compassionate people! If you'd like to make a donation to their sanctuary, please do so through their site. You can also watch some videos of Herbie & Kevina here.

I have now purchased three beautiful necklaces from her shop and will proudly wear each one every chance that I get. The first one that I purchased was a sterling silver drop pendant with a heart-

Nature is as important to me as animals, so I loved that it has a little flower on it, too. The heart brings my two loves all together in one gorgeous little package! Her shop is a regular one I stop by to see what's new, and recently she listed some that I fell in love with, so I just purchased these a few days ago-


I'll be wearing both of these a lot! She also has bracelets, buttons and rings in her shop, all in a variety of designs. There's something for every compassionate vegan out there!

Review- Vegan Dish

The following was written by Roni of Daisy Wares and Daisy's Destash.

Have you ever seen anything so beautiful? And I'm not just talking about the cranberries.

One of my most favorite vegans made this for me. Jeanette of Vegan Dish! It actually came from her other shop, Vessels and Wares and she modified it for me by adding, "vegan" and adding the stars. Not that it wasn't perfect without it, it just added that extra umpf!

It's called the Aqua-licious berry bowl. Here is Jeanettes stock picture so you can see the drain holes under it.

This bowl is going to get a lot of use in my house. It is so well made, very professional and will even stand the dishwasher. Jeanette is so very talented. She packs it so well too. You never have to worry about it breaking in the mail.

Now I'm off to boil up these cranberries to add to my Vegan Thanksliving dinner! For Thanksliving I am very thankful that Jeanette has come up with this wonderful idea of vegan dishes so all of our food can taste just that much better.

Review- Starrlight Jewelry

The following was written by Heather of Holistically Heather, For The Love Of Vegan and Recycled Cycle.

Trade cookies for jewels hah

I hadnt done a trade in a while so when Starrlight Jewelry contacted me about one I was stoked. We decided to trade 2 different batches of my cookies, for 3 of her beautiful necklaces. As always the photos on the internet never do artsy items justice. The necklaces I received are gorgeous, and were nicely shipped in a little jewelry box and tied with a ribbon.
The first necklace is called "Amber and Honey" and as soon as I opened it my grandmothers eyes lit up...she simply loved it. Her birthday is in November and I guess it is her birth stone color, so I tried to play it off like I knew that, and she is a happy little old lady with a beautiful necklace now.
"Moonlight" When I saw this necklace I knew that I had to have it,and I knew exactly who it was meant for! My sister that just had her first child is a very classic beauty, really into old actresses and movies. She even named my niece after Audrey Hepurn. Her birthday is also in November, its crazy how these things all fall into place!
"Purple Passion Heart" Last but definately not least is this gorgeous somewhat gothic looking necklace that I knew would be perfect for Jessi, my model, best friend, and closest companion. Jessi wears a lot of meaningful jewelry, and I thought I could add a beautiful piece like this to the collection for her! These are some really beautiful pieces handcrafted by a fellow vegan etsian!

Review- For The Love Of Vegan

The following was written by Starr of Starrlight Jewelry.

If you are a member of the etsy forums, then you know that there is much conjecture and trepidation about buying food online. A large number of buyers and sellers alike speculate what is in the food that shouldn't be. I think that through their own fears and insecurities they attempt to sway others from making purchases they themselves would not.

Having a strong will and a mind of my own I am very rarely if ever swayed by the thoughts and feelings of these types of expressions. As to that I breached a gap so many are unwilling to and purchased some cookies for my family.

I looked about the Vegan Etsy team food sellers for a number of days, after the decision had been made to buy some cookies, deciding which ones to pick as there are a great number of treats to choose from. My eyes lingered over ForTheLOVEofVEGAN for a period of time and then found myself returning to her shop repeatedly, thus my decision was made.

I selected 2 types of cookies, Spicy Oatmeal Raisin Vegan Cookies Organic and
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Vegan Organic Cookies for my purchase. I was very pleased by the quality customer service when Heather, the shop keeper pm'd quite shortly after to ask me about any changes or customizations I may like for the cookies. I thanked her for the options, already eager to receive my prizes, and said to keep the order as is.

The cookies arrived 5 days later, via Priority mail, not a single one smashed up, broken or falling apart. She had done a marvelous job to ensure the wrath of the post office would not befall my treats.

The cookies themselves were fantastic. These delectable treats were large, soft and chewy! My little one, always excited to see new packages coming to the home, was standing beside me in the kitchen hooting a happy "cookies mommy! COOKIES!" in her excitement. I selected a Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie for myself and handed her one as well.
The sensation of that first bite was indescribable. Melt in your mouth seems to be such a flat and unimaginative statement compared to the total oral ecstasy of these cookies. The look on my daughters face can sum it up a bit though.
I've always been partial to oatmeal and peanut butter cookies, and in my 27 years of sampling I can honestly say that these are the best ones that I have ever had. If you are ever in the mood for a tasty tid-bit of pleasure I strongly suggest a snack sampling from TheLoveOfVegan, as I can assure you, you won't be disappointed.

Review- Uber Duper Creations

I’ve ordered from Uber Duper Creations several times now for all of my animal companions and myself, loving my experience each time. Whether it was Beastie Biscuits for Emma, catnip toys for Crystal and Sophie or lovely cards, I got fast shipping, friendly service and quality products each time. Everything was beautifully made and the biscuits & toys went over very well!

Any shop that caters to companion animals has a special place in my heart, but Uber Duper Creations pulls on my heart strings even more because they give a percentage of their sales to Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary, (my favorite charity) and are located in Colorado, one of my very favorite places in the world. Plus, Pippi is just a wonderful person all around!

If you’re looking for something special for your companion animal, this is the place to check out. You will not be disappointed!

Review- Belle Sirota and Aguavino

I don't spend a huge amount of time in my car, but it's nice to have a few extra things in it that make me smile. My beetle has a little vase next to the steering wheel, so when Belle Sirota joined the team, I knew I had found the flower that I wanted to put in it. She was very accomodating, making me a custom flower of the size and colors I wanted. The result was a gorgeous flower made out of beads that sparkle when the sun hits them. My mom loved it so much that I ordered a second one for her beetle, only in colors to match her car. They were both perfect and the service was exceptional!

The second item I got was from Aguavino. We had just come home from a road trip to Boulder, where I had fallen in love with the prairie dogs that were by one of the dog parks we went to. Well, as soon as I saw that she had listed a necklace with a prairie dog on it, I had to have it. The necklace now hangs on my rearview mirror and I have named the prairie dog Myrtle. As with Belle Sirota, my experience with Aguavino was perfect. I would definitely recommend both of these stores!

Review- Starrlight Jewelry

Today's review is by Carla of Threaded Smiles.

The “Wysteria” necklace created by Starrlight Jewelry, a proud, active member of Vegan Etsy, caught my attention for three reasons: 1. It was made by a fellow vegan, 2. it has purple, a color that I have been wearing a lot more lately, and 3. it has a razor blade-reminiscent of “Dimebag Darryl” of Pantera.

So in a flash, virtually over the weekend, the package arrived safely from Hawaii to Texas. I hurry to the counter with my daughter tagging along behind me, dying for me to rip it open. Inside the bubbled parcel is an envelope of goodies with magnets and cards-very exciting to get lots of things to look at. Now to the big stuff, the necklace!! The box is wrapped in bubble wrap, nice to know my precious is secure, and has a purple ribbon. As I open it, snatch, my sweet little preteen grabs the box and shouts with glee how she LOVES it. I forgot for a second that purple is HER favorite color. Ooh yes, and there were matching earrings that Starr generously added. These faux pearls came from a necklace from the 80’s-even better they have been repurposed. So my daughter made out like a bandit with an extraordinary set of jewelry made by Starr. I highly recommend Starrlight Jewelry for anyone that loves jewelry- she’s definitely a favorite for Holiday gifts! Thanks for the care you put in your product and packaging, you really made our day!

Review- Tami's Soapworks

I have purchased soap for both myself and my husband from Tami's Soapworks several times now and I can honestly say that I've never been disappointed at all.

Not only is her shipping the fastest ever (I usually receive my orders within a few days!), but her soap is quite remarkable. The bars are a good size and last a long time. They sudz up very nicely and the scent is perfect- not weak but also not overpowering. Both my husband and I never find that our skin is dry after showering. Actually, it's quite the opposite. If anything, they're quite moisturizing!

I find myself wanting to take a longer shower sometimes because her soaps smell so good and feel so luxurious. Although there hasn't been a scent that I don't like, my very favorite ones are raspberry vanilla, green tea & honeysuckle, vanilla sandalwood and black tea & berries. My husband loves woodstock and by the falls.

The costs are very reasonable. Six bars of soap ship for $4.80 and 7 or more bars ship for $8.90, both priority mail. Minimal packaging is used and they are made in small batches, so you'll not only be buying vegan soap made by a vegan, but receiving a high quality product that is eco-friendly.

I highly recommend giving her soaps a try. You won't be disappointed!

Review- Daisy Wares

Today's review is by Starrlight Jewelry.

Daisy Wares is a Vegan boutique located on Etsy. Com. This eclectic artist has a nice range of items in her shop from jewelry to lip balms.

During her sale to buy one lip balm get one free, I purchased 2 vanilla from her. The items arrived in quite a timely fashion, even to me, who is in Hawaii. The balms were securely packaged for shipping, and the presentation was wonderful!

The balms were gift wrapped in sheets of delicate blue paper, which were tapered closed with a beautiful shop sticker. She included a business card with the purchase which I thank her for, as it will be easy to use it to find her store for shopping again.

The balms themselves looked fantastic. In had decorated tubes that gave forth a strong and sweet smell of Vanilla before I even opened them. The application of the balm was smooth and velvety, as rich in texture as it is in fragrance.

Over the past week I have made several applications throughout the day as I am not only addicted to the fragrance and silky texture but as I have also noticed that it has softened and relaxed my lips. A wonderful balm, and to date, the best I have ever used.

It is my dream to one day own a vegan boutique that will double as a last chance home for elderly and disabled animal companions. I would be honored to carry a line of Daisy Wares lip balms in my shop.

Review- Late July Photography

Jennifer of Jak Random Art wrote the following review. Thank you, Jennifer!

I recently purchased some prints from Late July Photography. They are so beautiful. Great shots of shelter animals that arrived nicely wrapped and packaged. It is always a bonus when you buy something and it arrives wrapped nicely like a present. This was a fantastic purchase and for a great cause.

She says "Helping animals is second nature to [I hope] most humans. I originally started taking photos of stray dogs and cats to put them online to find homes via petfinder.com However I recently decided to share their photos, story and spirit across the universe via my etsy store http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5840418 and my blog. I use the funds to help the animals in need in my area."

All the proceeds from purchases in her shop currently go to help pay for Bonnie's vet bills. You can read about Bonnie here. If you want to help Bonnie you can donate using the chipin button on this page.

I highly recommend this seller.

Review- Sierra Pelona Crochet

Today's review is written by Jody of Paws In The Sun, maker of awesome collars and soon to be other fabulous items.

I am so happy to tell you all about the awesome catnip crochet hearts I got from Sierra Pelona Crochet. Mind you, my two cats have more toys than they know what to do with, most of which don't even get them to raise a kitty eyebrow. I had barely opened the package from Sierra when my Lilly came around sniffing. I tossed her one of the two hearts I bought, and she immediately began a game of air soccer with her sister Senny. Those two cats, I kid you not, were leaping three feet in the air batting those things around. Eventually they tuckered out enough so I could get a non-blurry picture of them rolling in a daze of catnip bliss.

Sierra herself is a wonderful Etsian. Her communication was great and she couldn't have shipped these out any faster. I was very surprised to see the package in my mailbox today! I'd recommend Sierra Pelona Crochet to anyone and will definitely be back for more for holiday shopping, if not sooner. Thank you again!