Sunday, May 31, 2009

Sneak Peek at our new look

Since our beginning we have been looking for an iconic image. Well, at Black Pearl Designs, we think we have found it... or rather her. Meet Tehani.

We'll be introducing her throughout the summer and celebrating the new addition to our ohana. She's great! Sassy, intriguing, enchanting and a little sultry. Our tiare bearing vahine is sure to attract attention. Take a closer look and you'll notice she is wearing our signature Tehani pareo.

With her introduction, we'll be adding in some great new products, handicrafts, hard-to-find and one-of-a-kind Polynesian artisan works. Check back often as we grow.

New designs from artisan Patu

With our recent trip to Tahiti, we hooked up with several premier artisans. Patu, an accomplished Marquesan style tattooist and carver, loves to create new designs, he's more than willing. He already is in great demand and creates our popular carved Tahitian black pearls for us already. After showing us his most recent work, we knew we were going to add more of his work to our offerings.

We're introducing three new pieces that Patu created. The Tuianu necklace, Menemene necklace, and the 'Oeha necklace. All three feature intricate carvings balanced out with the ever present Tahitian black pearl.

The Tuianu necklace, a favorite style in Tahiti creates interest not only from the tattoo carvings but also the classic shape and criss-cross weaving of black satin rope tying a pair of hanging black pearls. Each piece, of course, is unique, not only because of the carvings and black pearls, but also because of the varying hues of the shell itself. If you want to make a fashion statement with an accessory, this is a great way to do so.

Patu pays special attention to the designs he carves on the Menemene necklace. Using what he has learned from growing up surrounded by carvers and artisan, he combines both new and old styles. The classic shaped round shell is definitely a focal point, but don't forget the black pearl.

'Oeha simply means rectangle. But the carvings and design of this necklace is anything but simple. Traditional Marquesan carvings are hand carved into the mother of pearl shell. A separate shell piece is attached below and a black pearl follows. The vertical look is stylish and slimming.

As our budget for artisans gets larger, look for more great and creative works on our website - Black Pearl Designs.

Friday, May 22, 2009

Never a better time to book a vacation to Tahiti

Just coming from a trip to Tahiti, I'm already ready to make a return trip. And seeing some of the rates and offers makes me want to book a flight. If I only lived on the mainland, this would definitely be our next family vacation. But I'll have to settle on living here in Hawaii...

Actually, after going to Tahiti, I've learned to appreciate our country even more. Tahiti is great, but there's nothing like home.

Anyway, I've been getting several emails with offers for Tahiti vacations offered by Air Tahiti Nui. I've seen rates as low as $366 (one way) and vacations (including hotel) as low as $898. These are unheard of rates. But after seeing first hand how low the occupancy rates are there, I'm not surprised.

Friday, May 01, 2009

Tahitian dance costume looks from HIVA

Take a look at some of the costumes traveling with the show - HIVA led by Tumata Robinson. She has taken her Tahiti Ora traditional dance group international with performances of its "Hiva" show in France, Canada and New Caledonia.