GUESS WHAT?! We will be at the 2016 ESSENCE FESTIVAL!

GUESS WHAT?!

We will be at the

2016 ESSENCE FESTIVAL

in New Orleans!

June 30-July 3, 2016

It's been a while and we wanted to touch base and bring you up to speed with what we have been doing.  If you have been on the website recently you may have noticed that the SHOP has been closed for a few weeks now.  You may have even been one of the many people who reached out via email, text and phone to also inquire. Now is the perfect time to let you know what we have been up to!

Since our highly successful "Black Friday" sale, we have been super busy!  I mean EXTREMELY busy......to point that we have officially outgrown our old leather vendor because they can no longer meet our demand!  We literally cleared their shelves and have been scrambling to find more leather to finish out our current orders.  The growth is such a blessing, but imagine the frenzy!  We had to DROP EVERYTHING and take a trip to Los Angeles to establish relationships with new leather vendors who could not only meet our needs, but allow us to expand into different types of leathers.  Because we were hand staining every piece of leather before, we were limited to one particular type of leather.  Now we will be introducing leathers that have already been stained providing color consistency and pre-finished to achieve a variety of different textures and feels.  These are the details that will continue to set us apart from the norm.  We are SO excited!!


As if all that was already going on wasn't stressful yet exciting enough....we found out that our application was accepted to be a vendor at the 2016 Essence Festival in New Orleans this year!!  GOD IS SO GOOD!  It was a goal of ours to be able to go, and last year we declared that in 2016.."We're Going!"  All I can say is GOD is making it happen!!!  So as you could imagine.....with the craziness around here we HAD to close the shop for a moment to catch up and then get ready for what's ahead of us!   And that would be making lots of handbags and tons of jewelry for our booth!!!!! Yay!

I mentioned earlier, how we have received so many messages asking when the shop will be open.  And honestly, to reply with anything other than "the shop is now open," has been the hardest thing to do.  But it was completely necessary so we could set the things in place that will make our operation run smoother.  This month we will be focusing on making inventory to take with us to the Essence Festival, however we plan on hitting the ground running RIGHT after!  So we have decided to start accepting pre-orders. This with the understanding that all items (with the exception of jewelry) will be delivered mid-end August. Our plan is to group the pre-orders with any orders we take during and immediately following the Essence Festival.  That will allow us to maximize our resources, negotiate with our vendors and make better use of the time it will take to complete all the orders.  To our loyal Button Family members and friends, we will be offering discounts on your pre-ordered items every week leading up to the festival with discounts decreasing the closer we get to the festival date (June 30th.)  So you don't want to miss out on these HUGE deals!  Not only are you saving money but your items being made will also have priority over orders received after the 30th.

We will be kicking off the Pre-Order sale with the leather Corners bag (pictured above) and will release the additional styles and fabric options in the coming days!  Pictured below are the different types of leathers we will be introducing.  We are really excited to be able to expand into different leathers.  And look at all these beautiful colors!! Click here to pre-order!

Below is a description of the different types of leather we will be introducing...

Type of  Leather:  Atlas

A full grain leather with a semi-Aniline finish.  This process helps to maintain the organic look and feel of the leather while getting some additional protection with a thin topcoat to help better protect it from wear and tear. Available colors (pictured below from left to right) : Crimson, orange, cognac, chocolate, olive, grey, khaki, dark grey, stone grey. 

Type of Leather:  Lugano

A full grain leather that has been dyed all the way through and has a buttery feel.  Available colors (pictured below from top to bottom) : Red, tan, brown, espresso, black, electric, royal blue, teal, cement, and white.

Type of Leather: Vermont

This is my personal favorite because it shows so much character in the grain!  Almost like a distressed look so that each piece is unique.  Available colors (pictured below) : Brick, beige, mustard, olive, grey, honey, black, brown, and navy.

We can't wait to see what you all decide!  Stay tuned......we will be adding more items over the next coming days/weeks!!!

Gratitude

Dear Grey Button Customers,

First, let me say THANK YOU for all of the love and support you have shown The Grey Button over the last several days.    Years of hard work and dedication are finally culminating in the results we envisioned and have been praying for since our inception.   The Grey Button values each and every customer and because our foundation is built on Christ, we must be transparent about the wonderful dilemma we currently find ourselves in and give God the glory!  

Each Grey Button bag is designed and handcrafted by the owner, Nadia Beck, and because our bags are custom order, production doesn’t begin until the customer either pre-pays in full or reaches 50% of the Grey-a-Way payment plan.  While we did have extra stock on hand, in anticipation of our advertised Black Friday Sales, we had no idea that one person’s sharing on Facebook (and we are so very humbled and grateful) would generate the frenzy of orders we have experienced within the last 72 hours.  Literally, our phones have been ringing non-stop and giving website alerts for orders being placed.  

As a result, our shipping times previously posted on our website will be delayed.  We are feverishly working to make the necessary adjustments to increase production without decreasing quality.  The Grey Button’s promise to all of our new and returning customers is communication.  We will communicate with you throughout this process informing you of where your bag is in the production process and the estimated ship date.  Our goal is to ensure as many bags as possible are delivered by Christmas, but for those who understand the challenges of when a small business finally takes off seemingly overnight, we are asking for your patience and prayers. 

Our leather is hand-dyed which requires a standard curing time before we can begin assembly.  This process can’t be rushed or it will not meet the quality guidelines for a Grey Button handbag.  As our satisfied customers will attest a Grey Button bag won’t disappoint and is worth the wait.  Every bag is created with love and attention to detail and this level of excellence cannot be hurried as we will never shortchange our loyal customers.  We are asking for your patience as we work out the challenges of our growing pains and ask that you pray for us as God directs this business He has blessed us to manage. 

BOLD Colors!

I am extremely proud of both Adrienne and myself!  Our Instagram friendship has allowed us to first meet in person and then inspire each other in real life.  During our first lunch visit these two creative minds got to work!  I love to challenge others to be the BEST version of themselves and that goes for me too.  But as a designer, sometimes it’s hard to branch out and tackle new projects mainly because I get consumed with my everyday tasks.  And that leaves me feeling uninspired to conquer some of my goals.  But I also know that for me with accountability I seem to GET IT DONE!  So by saying to Adrienne, “I want to do a small collection!”  I knew I would commit.  I was so happy that she was on board for this challenge!!!  We decided on our themes:   Adrienne – All White and for Me- Bold Colors!  And yes this was a challenge for me because I typically reach for the dark blues, grey, and blacks….. but not anymore!  …..And we both wanted to work on our craftsmanship and techniques.

Over the 10 weeks to follow we supported each other just about everyday!  That meant the world to me!!!  At the beginning of the week we would go through our rundown of tasks for the upcoming days  and checked in with one another ALL the time to keep each other motivated and inspired about fashion and our projects.  It’s an experience that I thank God for daily!!!  I know this is only the beginning to what the both of us will achieve and I am ecstatic to have a designer-sister- friend also achieving her goals beside me!

We collaborated on a challenge that pushed us out of our comfort zones and I hope you enjoy the outcome!  “ The Grey Button’s  BOLD Colors and Adrienne’s Essential’s ALL WHITE Collection!”  Items are available for purchase from both collections!!!  Visit us at www.thegreybutton.com and www.adriennesessentials.com.

Cobalt Tennis Dress, Tribal Zipper necklace,  Leo Bag (Fabric: Happy), Turquoise  Leather Zipper Cuff, Button Stud earrings

Black & White jumper, Styled with Banana Republic Blazer,  White & Gold Square Leather earrings, Ashy Black Leather Zipper cuff

High Waist Indian skirt, Cobalt Blue Knit Crop top, Turquoise Leather Leo Bag, Tangled Leather earrings, 

Diamond Printed Long Knit dress, Black Spiked Leather necklace, Black Nugget Leather earrings, Remy Bag (Fabric:Happy with Bright Pink Leather details)

We worked really hard on our collections!!!!  Please let us know what you think! And don't forget to check out Addrienne's Essentials Summer White Collection!!!!

ALL WHITE : BOLD COLORS

It's always an exciting thing for me to meet new people.  And nothing is better than connecting with someone who shares the same passions and values as you.  Boy did I hit "friend jackpot" with Adrienne Nixon of Adrienne's Essentials!  A simple conversation on Instagram lead to an in person meet.  What better place to get to know one another than at the fabric store?  And for these two girls, I don't think there could not have been a better place to talk fabric, fashion and eventually food!.....Mmmmmm,,,  I think by lunch we had both decided in our own minds that we COULD BE real friends now!!!  .......So what do you think happens when two artistic minds join and challenge each other's creative boundaries??  **MAGIC**  Connect with us as THE GREY BUTTON and Adrienne's Essentials lead up to our BIG Memorial Day reveal!!!!

Chic and Cozy Cape and Skinny Pants

I am really excited about this entire outfit.  Maybe because I made the whole fit....but the cape definitely stole the show! .... Well..... and this bag! 

Like a lot of sewers out there, I have a stash of fabric that I've been holding on to forever.  If you are anything like me, you fall in love with the fabric at the store and have absolutely no plans on what you are going to do with it but you buy it anyways and add to your stash.  And then, you go out again and spot some new fabric and the cycle is repeated.  Well, I am so guilty!  The problem?  Since I don't exactly know what I am going to make, I don't know how many yards I should get.  And then what ends up happening is when I finally have an inspired garment in mind, I don't have enough fabric!  So lately I have been challenging myself to design within the limitations in extra yardage.  It sounds easy, but when you have the entire piece figured out and then you find out you don't have enough to add sleeves, it's enough to make you want to throw in the towel and abandon the project.  I can always come up with an excuse to buy more fabric..but until I clear out my stash I have promised to refrain!  To my surprise I've noticed that I'm being a lot more creative!  And not drafting the patterns on paper first is also allowing me to see exactly how I want to use the fabric.  I just hold it up to my dress form- which takes the guesswork out.  It is usually at this point when the light bulb goes off and the design takes shape.
I had this fleece for probably 2 years.  It's so soft I considered just using it as a blanket and curling up on the sofa with some hot tea and a good movie.  But then I realized that I have virtually no outerwear and it's winter!  For some reason I am still being a rebellious....freezing...Californian.  So, I decided on a cape because I only had about 1 1/2 yards to play with.  I wanted to make a whole outfit of it so I also made some skinny pants and styled it with a leather hand-painted brooch and earrings.  To finish off the look, I could resist adding in my favorite bag, "Corners" from my accessories collection in a color combination I like to call Timberland- because of its army green color and cognac details. This look is super comfortable and effortless!  Another new addition into my closet..... CHECK!  To keep up with all of my creations as I sew my new custom wardrobe follow me on Pinterest!

    

To customize and purchase your handbag Corners handbag click HERE.  To view or purchase our hand-painted earrings click HERE.

www.thegreybutton.com

Cooking Fresh ~ Tangy BBQ Chicken

I'm pretty new at Crock-Pot cooking, but I have to say.....I'm getting hooked.  For someone who is always busy, it's the best thing!  If you don't already know, I LOVE cooking and as fresh as possible.  But sometimes the whole ordeal can take half the day if I'm not careful.  And that's why the crock-pot is genius!  I can just throw everything in and walk away.  That's exactly what I did when I made my Tangy BBQ Chicken!  I love BBQ almost anything, but since I cut processed sugar out of my diet three years ago, that also meant that I quit BBQ sauces too.  Have you seen the amount of sugar per serving?  and it's one of the main ingredients....Unbelievable!!  Well I found my solution for my cravings.....just make my own sauce.  We are having better BBQ Chicken for dinner!


*Disclaimer ~ I did not stop and measure everything.... I used the eyeball it and taste method!


Here's what I did:

I started by making my own blend of seasoning salt.  Did you know Lawry's adds sugar?  (Why?)




-garlic powder
-onion powder
-paprika
-ground sage
-ground brown mustard
-coriander
-whole oregano (dried)
-black pepper
-salt










* REMEMBER I rarely use measurements.  I use the tasting method.  [ I feel like I have to keep saying it! :) ]  I recommend starting with 1/2 teaspoon of each and some common sense.  For example, I happen to LOVE fresh cracked black pepper so I add a whole lot to everything.  You may want to use less....

Generously season both sides of the chicken (I used thighs but go for your favorite part of the chicken.....)










Next, I grabbed a mixing bowl....It's time to make the sauce!  Side note:  I didn't make a whole lot of sauce because I was only making a small amount of chicken with no plans for leftovers.  You can certainly double the ingredients if you need to.  

*****The ingredients that I am listing for the sauce are approximates..TASTE EVERYTHING!! ...and along the way.

3/4 cup  tomato sauce
1/3 cup  apple cider vinegar
2 TBS    honey
1/2 tsp   onion powder
1/2 tsp   garlic powder
1/2 tsp   sweet paprika
1/2 tsp   ground brown mustard
1/4 tsp   nutmeg
1/4 tsp   cinnamon



~From here I might have added a little more honey and a few more sprinkles of seasoning from the above list, oh! and maybe even a little water.... until it was real good to ME!  I recommend doing the same -live a little!  Once the sauce was perfect, I set it aside.  I added it to the chicken later.


APOLOGIES!!! I forgot to take a picture of what the sauce looked like in the bowl...  


After about 2 hours the house was smelling delicious!  Mmmmmmmm.....I removed the chicken thighs from the Crock-Pot and drained the liquids.  It just seemed like a whole lot of oil to me..  I added the chicken back to the pot skin side up and poured in the sauce that I made earlier, making sure everything had a nice coating.  Placed the lid back on and walked away.  I would say that the chicken was ready 1 1/2 hours later, I recall turning the Crock-Pot off before the full 4 hours.  Everything was fully cooked and tender which is exactly what I wanted!  I would think if I were making more chicken I may have needed the full 4 hours, no????  

Well other than a few minutes of prepping, this BBQ chicken took no time! ....well none of mine anyway!  

I paired my yummy Tangy BBQ {Crock-Pot} Chicken with some cheesy rice and green beans.  My family loved it!  Let me know how it goes for you!

Cooking Fresh ~ Lentil Burgers

Last week I posted my Lentil Burgers on my Facebook and Instagram pages and lots of requests for the recipe.  And not to toot my own horn but they were sooooooo good... TOOT TOOT!  I even told my husband that they might have just been the best bean burger I've ever had!  WOW!!!  I am no where close to being or becoming a vegetarian but I am always eager to taste the bean burgers I see on the menu when we go out to eat....so I have had my fair share!

If you follow me on social media, you can see that I absolutely LOVE cooking and strive to cook as fresh and healthy as I possibly can.  A few weeks ago I made a really big pot of lentil soup and I froze half to enjoy on another day.  The soup by itself was delicious!  It was made using dried lentils, potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, coriander, cumin, salt and pepper- I had no idea how much I would enjoy the leftovers this much.  But when you are cooking fresh everything tastes better!  There are so many layers to flavoring and when you cook from scratch you are in control.  Sure you can substitute with prepared items but it's just not the same!

To form the patties I started by using a slotted serving spoon and scooping out a few big spoons of lentils.  Using my fresh baked bread, I made some bread crumbs by toasting a few slices then chopping them up.  To the crumbs I added dried chopped onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt and pepper and about a tablespoon of mayonaise and combined everything.  The mixture needed to be a little wet in order to stay together to form the patties.  Heat your griddle or hot pan and a little bit of olive oil and brown the patties on both sides.  And that's it! (Sorry I don't have pictures for the patties......I didn't know I was going to be sharing!)

Now that the patties are done, the burger assembly can begin.  If you are feeling bold, I would suggest definitely making the pretzel buns.  In my opinion that is one of the best parts of this whole thing!  Click here for the recipe I got off of Pinterest.  I have made it about 5 times and the buns never last at my house! DELICIOUS...... but proceed with caution!!!!  If you are lacking time, you can easily just pick up your favorite hamburger buns at the grocery store and be all set.

I dressed my burger with a spicy mayo spread and LOTS of freshly shredded cabbage.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!!  Let me know how yours turns out.




*Disclaimer-  I don't use measurements on purpose when I am cooking and rely strictly on my pallet.  Taste, taste, taste!!!!  If you think it needs more of something.....add it!  Start light and season along the way!

LENTIL SOUP:

-dried lentils
-chicken stock (homemade or low sodium store bought)
-cumin
-salt & pepper
-garlic
-onions
-potatoes
-carrots
*This is a simple dish, just throw everything in the pot bring to a boil and then\ let it simmer on low until the lentils, carrots, and potatoes are cooked through but not mushy.


LENTIL PATTIES:

-lentils (about 2 cups of cooked lentils from your soup or store bought, drained)
-bread crumbs (fresh or store bought)
-dried chopped onions
-garlic powder
-onion powder
-whole oregano
-paprika
-salt & pepper
-1 TBS mayonaise

*Set pan or griddle to medium-high heat and add (or spray) the pan with a TSP of olive oil.  Brown the patties on both sides to create a nice crunch.  If you use a non-stick pan, you don't need a lot of oil at all!  Done!
**As far as the seasonings go, I would start with 1/2 TSP of each and add more accordingly.

SPICY MAYO:

-2 TBS of mayonaise
-hot sauce of your choice (I used Tabasco) and to your heat preference
-garlic powder (a few dashes)


You can also dress your lentil burger with all your hamburger favorites!!  Mmmmm!  I'm definitely making this again!

Cropped Denim Jacket

Sometimes you just have to let the fabric speak yo you. It knows what it wants to be. And that's exactly what ended up happening with this denim jacket project. What I set out for in the beginning grew into a completely different product in the end. I originally imagined a loose fitting cropped jacket with flowing sleeves. But when I searched through my fabric stash, I came across some leftover denim from another project.  I didn't have much so this could work out for my cropped jacket. Well..... now that changes everything because the denim is way more stiff than my original design.  Almost immediately- I felt a structured jacket was the way to go!  A couple of snips and tucks and this jacket started coming to life. My goal: keep things simple to allow the eyes to be drawn to the clean style lines and defined sleeves. Descrete pockets, a crisp top stitch and covered buttons finish the garment.

What I love most about this jacket is its versatility. Initially it feels dressy but I can easily dress it down with some jeans and a tee.  Throw in a cute clutch and some earrings and I am good to go! That's the beauty of being an artist! YOU can bring your vision to life!!  

Bella Clutch ~ "Grey and Stripe"
Available at www.thegreybutton.com

"Fanned Out" Leather Hand-Painted Earrings in Silver
Available at www.thegreybutton.com

2015 is off to a great start! What projects will you be working on this month to start off the new year?  You can follow my journey as I sew my way through my portfolio and into a brand new wardrobe! I've created a Pinterest board just for my looks and you can also see what I'm up to on Instagram. I'd love to hear from you!  Bye for now buttons!!