Wrapping up May (and April!) ... Plus what's to come in June and some other little bits.

The standout highlights have been celebrating little Billy's 4th birthday, launching By Leahy Brides; meeting Mollie; creating pieces to celebrate multiple marriages, birthdays, love, and friendship; finally designing the much-awaited new rings (plus some); sampling a new idea with the beautiful Galway Wool, and taking part in the Irish PopUp Collective.

By Leahy Brides is an exclusive Bridal Line designed to be a lasting reminder of love, connection, and celebration. It received brilliant coverage in the Irish Independent's Weekend Hitlist.

I had the opportunity to create a personalised pair of Slip Hoop Earrings for the gorgeous Mollie of Irish With Mollie. I started following Mollie years ago as my love of the Irish language continued to grow. Her approach, in describing the richness and etymology of the language, is so unique and refreshing. You'll be absorbing the cúpla focal in no time. It was an added bonus to meet Mollie in person while she was passing through Galway. Grá Mór (Big Love) are the two words she has engraved on her earrings - it's a beautiful story.

A new Connect Bracelet joined a special stack, to celebrate her husband's birthday. This particular one was made extra chunky and the result was perfect. Going forward each Connect Bracelet ordered for a man will be made extra chunky. I've updated the product page to give this option. Have a look.

I had the absolute pleasure to also make a matching pair of rings - the new Portrait Slip Ring (which will launch online soon) for a couple who were continuing their relationship long distance. Both from Spain but living in Ireland, G was returning to Madrid two days later. In record time I made both rings and translated a gorgeous photo of them walking together in Phoenix Park into the engraving. G and A received the matching rings the day before they parted company. I can't wait to share the whole story (with their permisison - thank you ladies), in the Signature Stories blog.

The Irish Pop Up Collective took part in Dun Laoghaire and the next one is at Christmas time (I would highly recommend it as a customer - the quality and choice was perfectly executed thanks to the work of Debbie and Kate). To everyone who made it on the day, it was absolutely brilliant to meet you in person. It was a joy to see current customers and I had the delight in hearing stories from new customers, which have since been captured in their chosen pieces.

I've been kept busy since, making orders to capture the Ogham language, the fingerprint and signature of a beautiful little seven year old, a 'Home Is Where The Heart Is' to capture her positive adoption story and love for her home in Ireland.

Wedding season is in full swing and the thoughfulness and romanticness (yes, it's a word but I had to double check) of so many men warms my heart. It's a joy to make Signature Envelope Necklaces, and a Signature Slips that was added to an original gift of a Signature Envelope.

And lastly, I had the sheer delight in translating Sadie and Billy's drawings onto two rings. Sharing more on that with you over here.

In the Know... A spotlight on what is going on in the industry and/or jewellery tips.

Last month, there was one question that came my way a couple of times and I'm delighted to share it here - because customer care is central to By Leahy.

'X, Y, or Z has broken, what can I do?'

By Leahy launched in 2019 which means that many customers have their pieces for years and years at this stage. And with that comes the need for some TLC. Some chains have broken, some clasps are beginning to get tired. And this is all very normal for jewellery that is much-loved and worn regularly.

What you can do is send it straight back to me. I will take care of whatever needs to be taken care of. And I send every piece back with a complimentary fresh polish to get it looking as new as possible (although I do love the natural characteristics of the metals that show with wear, just like a gorgeous leather handbag or pair of shoes).

So, if you have a piece of By Leahy - no matter how many years you have had it for (and share this with those you have gifted a piece to) you can always get in touch with me and I will take care of it for you. Please don't go to a local jeweller. Please come straight to me.

Laoise x

As for what is ahead in June…

Some sun, hopefully!

And I will be busy adding the new designs to the website, plus a fun piece for Father's Day (June 21st).

For now, I hope you enjoyed the read (trying each month to make it shortly but I think I actually end up making it longer! 🫣).

And I can't say it enough - 'thank you' so much to everyone who has chosen By Leahy, given feedback, and for recommending it to family and friends.

I am so grateful.

Laoise x

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