Olivia Riegel...I Love You!

     No - I'm not gay, but yes, I'm in love with a picture frame designer named Olivia Riegel.  I was so happy when I got to put together my wedding registry at Bloomingdales and I selected one of her frames and got it as a bridal shower gift (see left).  It displays the one and only photo that I have out of the wedding and it's prominately displayed in my living room.  I've even turned my mom onto her and she assures me that she is going to get them for me as gifts from time to time.  I absolutely cannot wait. 
     Here is a brief description from one of her retailers:  "Olivia Riegel products are gorgeous handmade enameled and Austrian crystal jeweled frames, candlesticks, trays, bottle stoppers, and boxes. We know that you will be extremely thrilled with the quality of these items, hand enameled, and decorated with Swarovski crystals. Olivia Riegel hails from Texas and her works are collected worldwide."
     I only collect her frames (for now), but I can definitely see why people collect her work.  She creates the perfect mix of flash and understated.  I've attached some of my favorite designs below.  Let me know what you think of Olivia Riegel - if you haven't heard of her before take some time to learn about her now.  I guarantee that even if you don't become obsessed like myself, you'll certainly appreciate her creativity. 
     The frames start at $50 and go all the way up to $300+, but on average these are very reasonable and will last forever.  They also usually go on sale whenever Bloomingdales has a home sale - unlike some other high end brands that use Swarovski crystals - the ones that come to mind are Jay Strongwater and L'Objet (these never go on sale).  If you're trying to think of a nice gift for a mom, grandma, or friend don't forget about Olivia Riegel!