Review : Crafted by Mei

If you could recall some time back, I engaged in the service of Crafted by Mei as well to custom-make a bracelet and two necklaces. Much to my delight I did received my goodies and they are really pretty and up to my expectations!

All of your orders from Mei comes in a packaging like the one below - very sweet indeed. Ideal for gifts you get to save on wrapping! 

And here are the two necklaces which I ordered from Mei. I would say that both turned out very good and exactly what I had in mind.

Original Design

My modified design - wanted an unconventional
colour of dark blue and blood red.

Original Design

My modified design - Honestly you can't see much of a difference
here but I changed the link from snowflake to butterflies.
And the color of the necklace carries hues of light green as well.

 

And the finale is of course the bracelet which was made entirely from scratch - meaning I combine both designs to be made into one. This is to symbolize my pregnancy where I chose the pram as a charm and the color of sapphire/blue represents me and amber/purple represents bear. Both are our birthstone.

Original Design 1 - I wanted the bracelet to be entwined
with beads like the above.

Original Design 2 - With the charm, flower cabochon,
and Swavovski crystal to dangle from the middle.

And here is Mei's creation. It was perfect, simple, and fits the description of what I had in mind. I love it to bits.

Perfect! *heart*

So yes, aside from Diary of a Miniature Enthusiast, you can always opt for Crafted by Mei as well. Both are good albeit having different styles. I guess it is entirely up to the individual's preference. 

For me personally, I prefer Wendy from Diary based from my past experience primarily because she is fast in answering emails, very pleasant and accommodating, and somehow her style suits my taste better.

Of course to be fair I am not saying that Mei is less talented in terms of the creative department, it's just that due to her workload, she can be a tad slow in replying emails. I just find Wendy more engaging. That's all. :)

Love;

Mummy Geri

Review : Completely Under the Charm of the Diary of a Miniature Enthusiast

Note: All pictures are taken from Diary of a Miniature Enthusiast and it's Facebook Account. Please give them due credit should the pictures are to be duplicated or copied.

As mentioned before, I've engaged in the services of Wendy from Diary of a Miniature Enthusiast to  custom-make two charm bracelets for myself. She is a very nice person to work with and her reply to emails are prompt and fast. Not only that, she is also a very patient and accomodating person (are all creative people like that?). 

Although she may not update her blog often, you can always opt to head to her FB page where updates on her work progress are being documented quite frequently in a day. It is very interesting to follow her development as she placed her arrangements for a customer and then a couple of hours later voila~ a pretty new customized bracelet is done!

It is even more kan cheong interesting if the progress is your own order. Because you can't wait to see how the final product will look like. I call them, the teaser shots. :)

If you could recall; I ordered two bracelets from her existing series with minor tweaks:

(i) Dainty & Demure No. 2 

Original design of the sweet Dainty & Demure No. 2

What I requested was to keep the original design but add in a personalized charm with my initial "G" in it. I've also asked for the ribbon charm to be changed to a butterfly charm. FYI I love butterflies!! 

And here is the final work taken from the FB page : 

The new addition :)

Don't you think my initial "G" is done so prettily??? It fits into the entire theme perfectly and the font is so vintage~y and classic! Perfect! Such a classy design! Thumbs up! Perfect if I want to go all frilly, sweet, and innocent. 

(ii) Old Chinese Cafe Charm Bracelet

Original design of the quaint Old Chinese Cafe Charm Bracelet

I've asked for Wendy to add some colors in black and maroon/dark red. My intention is to make it look more like a Shanghainese theme like The Bund. Antique and vintage. Classic and old school. Think of the 1920s era in Shanghai. That's the overall feel which I want to create.

And here is the outcome taken from the FB page:

Woah ... that's Shanghai Tang for you!

All I can do is gap at her masterpiece piece of artwork. It was exactly how I pictured it to be. The dark red and black combination is so va~va~vom! So slutty Chinese old school. Noticed the "girl in cheongsam" charm? It has been changed to black and white. Ohhh.. spooky like those old Chinese news print ad. So mysterious. Two thumbs up! It's perfect to be used for work especially on a gloomy Monday especially if I'm wearing something of a darker shade. 

Aside from the above two amazing and beautiful charm bracelets, I was so itchy hands have also added one more order. A purely customized order to celebrate my pregnancy. I named it, the Baby Boy Charm Bracelet.

(iii) Baby Boy Charm Bracelet.

There was not much of a reference. All was done from scratch in the sense that I have a rough idea on what I wanted. I pretty much choose the charms which was to be included and leave Wendy to come up with the creative part to string it all up together.

Basically, my request was as follows:

- Keep it simple with drops of blue hues.

- Customized a "It's a Boy" charm.

- Rocking horse, pacifier, and teddy bear (because my boy is a baby bear) charm. 

I've suggested that perhaps she can use the acrylic cabochon blue ribbon in her Alice in Wonderland Charm Bracelet or the blue flower cabochon in Dainty & Demure No.1. Or alternatively, she can use blue ribbons like the Keep Calm & Go Shopping series. 

The acrylic cabochon blue ribbon in Alice in Wonderland Charm Bracelet

The blue flower cabochon in Dainty & Demure No.1

Blue ribbons in Keep Calm & Go Shopping

Further I've also suggested that she could make a sapphire blue bead / Czech bead / Swavovski crystal to dangle from either one of the charms. I've also asked for her to add a faceted teardrop blue crystal as well. Why blue? It's because the baby is a boy and my birth stone is sapphire. :)

After sending out my elaborate request, I was a bit worried that Wendy would think I quite TTLY asking for so many things have a hard time trying to figure out exactly what I want. But no, in 15 minutes' time, came her reply and I quote a portion of it:

"It's no problem at all :) ..."  

And in my heart I went like.. seriously? 0_o"

Even with my TTLY many requests, she managed to churn out something within the next day that's exactly what I wanted. I couldn't help complimenting her with heaps of praises on the FB page! Look at all the pretty trinkets and the blue color beads and .. and.. the Swavovski sapphire heart crystal!!! *heart* The only thing that I've asked Wendy to add on in the arrangement is the acrylic blue cabochon ribbon. 

From the FB page : Teaser arrangement shot
before hooking them all up.

And so I was stalking waiting anxiously for her to update the final arrangement (refreshing the FB page every hour or so) and here it is .... 

T_T *tears of joy*
Beautiful isn't it?

For those who wanna do a charm customization of bracelets/necklaces/keychains/bookmarks etc, please do contact Diary of a Miniature Enthusiast. Wendy is a breeze to work with and her creations are amazing! She is fast and efficient too!

Highly highly highly recommended! :)

Love;
Mummy Geri

Review : The Actual Clothes from Summer Glitz Fashion

Note: You may read my pre-review post on Summer Glitz Fashion here.

(i) The  Fitting: 

This won't be a long post as I have said my piece in the previous pre-review. The below 3 items are my favorites because it flatters me the most. The black dress and white top is wearable even after my pregnancy. All i need to do is pair it with a belt and I am good to go. Not the pink one though, cos it looks too "maternity-wear" to be worn as a normal work /casual wear. 

My least favorite is the one in grey in the middle as it makes me look damn fat. Being pregnant doesn't mean you have to look sloppy and not presentable. However the lacy one on the right and the white shirt on the left is really pretty. I can also pair it with a belt to look more sleek. :)

(2) The Quality:

Not too bad but definitely not as good as Whitesoot. You just have to be cautious when choosing from their site. That's my honest advise.

(3) Suitability:

Definitely can fit as maternity wear. Pretty stylish too. Some can even pass to be post-maternity wear. 

Well, end of the day, it is entirely up to you but I would suggest to buy 1 or 2 items first to try it out to see if you like it before going all out to make more purchases. Will I recommend? Probably. Just to add some color and style to your wardrobe. But for proper maternity clothes, I would suggest to scout around from those proper maternity shop (caution : prepare to spend a bomb ya).

Love;
Mummy Geri

Review : Step Out in Style with Whitesoot without Breaking Your Wallet

I have always been a fan of online shopping because you get to buy stuff that retail stores don't have and even if they do.. you can buy it at the fraction of the price. In fact, I have been shopping online since 2010!

However, ever since my bad experience, my faith in online shopping has somewhat been waivered. I do still surf around and see if there are anything which I like - but somehow I always have my reservation and won't bring myself to click on that "buy" button.

I would rather pay a little bit more doing retail shopping cos I buy what I see and that's safe. Even if I have to go through the hustle and bustle of people in the shopping malls .*shudders*

Meanwhile, I have been having my eyes fixed on a particular online site, Whitesoot. What draw me to them is the design of their clothes - chic, classy, and different.

One-Direction Pleated
Shoulder Top by Whitesoot

Some designs can go from corporate which is extremely suitable for work, some are semi-casual which are good for Fridays and after-work events, and some are casual - perfect for weekends and holidays.

ASOS-inspired Pleat Dress with
Unique Skirt Overlay from Whitesoot

Did I also mentioned that they bring in a lot of designer-inspired pieces like MNG, ASOS, Topshop and the likes? Which means you can buy them at Whitesoot at a much affordable price!

And so I just couldn't resist - took the plunge and started buying clothes from Whitesoot. And I have never looked back since. :)

Romantic Lace Tiered Dress with
Ribbon Back by Whitesoot

Here are my unbiased opinion on Whitesoot clothes:

(1) Quality - Top notch! What you see online is what you get. The material are of amazing quality. I can personally vouch for this.

(2) Service - Prompt! All emails will be answered within 24 hours, and once payment has been made, the goods will be delivered the following day.

(3) Size - In this department, I have a wee bit of a problem. It's because I have big boobs a slightly bigger bust than the normal petite girls. I also have wide hips. And because of this, certain cutting of the clothes may not fit me well. Of course, naturally it being an online shop and there are no tries, I have no choice but to go on a "trial and error" basis and then use the same clothes which fits me to be my basis for measurement for my next purchase. Alternatively, there is a size chart in their website for guidance. For avoidance of doubt, I suggest that you email Whitesoot directly on your concerns and they will be able address them. In one such instances, that was what I did because I was unsure, and the ever helpful and honest people at Whitesoot told me upfront that they reckon that the clothes won't be able to fit me nicely. Yes, they are nice people like that. :)

(4) Pricing - Affordable. For the quality, service, and designer-inspired creation, it's so worth the money spent. No way can you walk into Topshop and get the exact same piece for less than RM100.

So yes, I have been shopping at Whitesoot ever since and below are some of my stash. Love it all to bits!

My Whitesoot collection. :)

Whitesoot now brings in new collections every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 8pm.

Wearing my beautiful Chain & Tassle Scarf Print Dress
from Whitesoot @ 6 1/2 months pregnant. :)

Love;
Mummy Geri

Pre-Review : Affordable and Fashionable Maternity Wear @ Summer Glitz Fashion

I know I swore off maternity clothes due to their exhorbitant pricing. Todate, I have spent close to a total of RM1,500 from Mothercare for 2 working pants (almost couldn't fit anymore at the hips area), 3 working tops (of which 1 doesn't fit anymore), 3 casual tops, 1 dress, 3 maternity bras, and 1 pair of shoes (this one is impulse gatal buying, I admit).  And of course others as well from Jaya Jusco which of course doesn't fit me anymore. *sheesh*

Assuming if we average it out, the cost of one item is roughly about RM115! Yes, maternity wear in Malaysia is that expensive.

And with 3 more months or so to go, I thought that existingly whatever that I have would be sufficient to last. (I don't mind recycling my clothes week after week, I am kiamsap like that :p).

I thought wrong. -.-"

Because what I didn't expect is my belly growing so fast month by month week by week. It's crazy I tell you! I thought I was one of those lucky ones like Victoria Beckham who manage to stay hot throughout her pregnancy. 

Victoria Beckham looking like a hot mama.

I thought wrong for the second time. -.-"

Because the minute I passed my second trimester, my boobs went up by one cup size (yay?!), my ass hips and tighs had expanded (T_T), and my belly has been growing so fast! 

As much as I hate to spend the money admit it, I knew I had no choice but to get more maternity clothes *dammit!*  :(

Of course, thanks to my recent purchase of the Belly Belt Combo Kit, I need not buy more maternity bottoms. I just needed more tops, blouse, and dresses for work and casual wear.



Best purchase ever!



And so, I started Gooling for cheap maternity wear online and lo and behold stumbled upon Summer Glitz Fashion , which brings in rather trendy and most importantly affordable maternity, nursing, lady, babies, and kids apparels.

From Summer Glitz Fashion

What I love about the maternity clothes in Summer Glitz Fashion is that most of them are re-wearable even after you deliver. All you need to do is jazz it up with a piece of belt and you are good to go. This is important for me because I want to stretch the value of my money (knowing that pregnancy is only temporial).

From Summer Glitz Fashion

Another plus point for me is that they have a lot clothes with sweet and demure chiffon and lace materials which I absolutely adore. *heart*

From Summer Glitz Fashion

To be frank, I have yet to receive the goods (will update on the outcome later), but from the website, I am pretty convinced that the items will be of good quality and that I won't be dissppointed. *fingers crossed*

So yup, for those mummies out there, here is another alternative for you to stock-up on your wardrobe without breaking your budget.

And you look fashionable while at it too. :)

Love;

Mummy Geri

It Ain't Cheap Having a Baby .. But It's Worth It :)

Disclaimer : All Photos are from The Baby Loft and Google.

Since I'm already close to 22 weeks and everything is pretty much stablised, we've decided to start doing our baby shopping little by little in hopes that other people will buy for us some stuff eventually to manage our cashflows. Also, to take advantage of the mega sales as well.

Being the planner that I am, I started off with a comprehensive checklist to manage our budget and to see which are essential items and which are our so-called "wish list" items (ahem.. guys please take note ok for baby shower, full moon, presents etc)

Todate, we have spent quite a substantial amount on essential "big items". Let me break it down for you :

(1) Halford S9 : Compact Reversible Stroller @ RM799.20 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was :
- Can fit into my Myvi.
- High up which was my No.1 requirement so I don't have to bend.
- Relatively cheap compared to other brands.
- Can be forward-facing.
- Easy to fold and handle by myself.
- Light.
- Lovingly sponsored by my father-in-law *heart*.

(2) Britax : First Class Plus Convertible Car Seat @ RM959.20 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was :
- Can fit into my Myvi.
- Can hold infant at birth up to 4 years old.
- Comes with newborn support pillow.
-VERY reliable and safe brand.
- Not really cheap .. but long-term wise it is good investment.
- Fully imported from UK.

(3)  Pamco : Sea Breeze Cot @ RM899.00 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was:

- Made with Grade A NZ pine.

- Complied with NZ/US safety standards.

- 4-in-1 convertible : Bassinet, Cot, Junior Bed, and Sofa/Settee.

- Long-term investment.

- Packaged into a crib set and good quality mattress.  

(4) Bumblebee : Latex Mattress + 7 pcs Crib Set @ RM521.10 *ka ching!* 

The reason why we chose this was:

- Comes in a package deal with the cot - total savings of 13%.

- Latex mattress is by Getha.

- 7 pcs set : 2 Cot Bumper, Comforter, Bedsheet, Pillow, 2 Bolsters 

- FYI, I chose a nicer design then the one above.

(4) Medela Swing Package @ RM759.00 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was:

- Package deal : Cooler Bag + 3 Ice Pack + 8 Storage Bottles.
- Value for money.

- Everyone say Medela Swing is the best.

(5) Autumz : Electric Steam Sterilizer + Warmer Combo @ RM159.90 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was:

- The combo deal is value for money.

- Friends recommended.

- Sterilizer big enough to fit breast pump.
- Versatile to fit any bottles.

(6) Avent : New Born Starter Set @ RM95.00 *ka ching!*

The reason why we chose this was:

- My aunt has jalan to get it for me real cheap (NP: RM189)

- Everyone swears by Avent.

(7) Misc : Baby Clothes, Changing Mat etc @ RM196.00 *ka ching!*

 ... and I still have not finish buying yet!

So all in .. so far we've spent a total of : RM3,589.20 (minus the stroller which was sponsored) *ka ching!* *ka ching!*

In view of the above, I wont be buay pai seh tell people lo if they wanna buy me stuff on the items which I think my baby would need. Here are my wish list and the estimated pricing:

1. Graco Pack & Play Playard : RM599.00
2. Ikea Changing Table : RM150.00 - RM300.00 
3. Bath Tub Stand : RM100.00
4. Baby Monitor : RM200 - RM300

Yes, setting up a new nursery for an infant is not cheap but we will continue to trust God that He is our Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. :)

P/S: Tips - Try to get most of your items from one place so that the discount given to you can be more. Most of my items are bought from The Baby Loft, except for the Medela Swing Package and the Autumz Package which was online from Little Whiz.

Love;
Mummy Geri

It's Almost Like Shopping in Bangkok @ Amcorp Mall

OMG I'm so excited!!!

(No I'm not pregnant in case if you are wondering)

I found a place in Amcorp Mall that sells cheap clothes~! Stumbled upon the shop when I was walking around kaypoh~ing and checking out the flea market on one of those random weekends. The clothes there ranges from RM10 - RM45. A majority of the clothes are from Japan and Australia (don't know how true it is).

All items here are RM20 only! :D

So far I have bought a lot of some clothes from them and the quality are pretty decent! The only problem is that you don't get to try them out cos there is no fitting room in the shop. Anyway, my mindset is simple : If it doesn't fit, I can always opt to give it away as present, sell it online, or pack it away to donate to the orphanage. After all, it doesn't cost me an arm and a leg.

All items here are RM15 only! Shiok~ness!!

What's the name of the shop then? Funny thing is the shop has no name and no signboards whatsoever (really budget set-up). All I can say is that, it is on the same floor as Book Xcess which is on the second floor. Go rounding on that floor, you won't miss the shop. :)

The shop stocks up every twice (sometimes thrice) a week, so you will always find new items every week. Yes, I am in shopping heaven! *beams*

Please do pay a visit to this shop, you won't regret it.

You may thank me later. :)

Love;

Mrs Lee