Artfully Elegant — Handmade Jewelry & Handcrafted Gifts

If you’ve been in Artfully Elegant, you’ve probably seen the nifty vintage cigarette machine tucked neatly near our checkout desk. This delightful piece of mechanics is referred to as an Art-o-mat, and instead of cigarettes, it vends one-of-a-kind mini art! 

Click Here for the Art-o-mat at Artfully Elegant! 

The particular Art-o-mat at Artfully Elegant is one of over 120 unique Art-o-mats that can be found at locations all throughout the country.

The original was created by artist Clark Whittington when a friend heard cellophane being crinkled and then had an uncontrollable urge for a snack. It was a Pavlovian response to hearing the candy wrapper being crinkled.

So in June of 1997, the first Art-o-mart was created using a recently banned cigarette machine. The piece, along with a number of full sized art from the artist, was displayed at a local cafe in Winston-Salem N.C., and contained small black and white photos mounted on blocks.

Although the piece was only to stay displayed for a few months, the owner of the cafe loved it so much, that she asked that it stay. Due to the length of stay, Whittington needed other artists to contribute to it’s contents. Local artists were asked to contribute to it’s tiny art, and the Art-o-mat that exists today, full of different artists and artistic styles, was born!

Each Art-o-mat is beautiful and distinctly different, however, the goal has always been the same. That ”art should be progressive, yet personal and approachable.“

So the next time you’re in downtown Bethlehem, stop in and check out the Art-o-mat! Not only is it a true re imagination of a vintage piece of history, but you can score some pretty amazing art too!

All photos courtesy of Art-o-mat’s Facebook Page

Tags: art o mat

If you’ve ever checked out the wares here at Artfully Elegant, you’ve probably noticed the perky little pieces of pottery spattered with inspirational quotes and sayings. These little art pieces are more than just cute and inspiring, the artists behind them make each piece with a purpose.

Zpots, handcrafted in the Zpots Studio in Vermont, are individually made by husband and wife artists Eric Hendrick and Noelle Van Hendrick.

Each piece starts with a chocolate clay body and is hand thrown before being treated with a variety of techniques to give each one it’s distinct and one-of-a-kind look. Noelle then incorporates her own poetry into each piece, and hand writes her words onto each one.

When fired in the electric kiln, which is powered by Vermont Cow Power by electricity generated from surrounding farmlands, the studio keeps a renewable future in mind. “We make choices within our production and daily lives to benefit the mission of living in harmony with our planet.”


The colors used represent the elements of water, earth, and forest, and stay the same throughout each piece, while the lines are more varied and sporadic.

Eric and Noelle look at each piece as an individual that’s part of a whole collection, a family so to speak, making each one both individualized yet related in it’s method of creation and overall look.

While Zpots are available at galleries and boutiques across the country, each one is as unique and personally individual as the person who chooses to display one. Check out Artfully Elegant and choose the Zpot that speaks to you.

Tags: artist spotlight, zpots

Did you know that some say leap year is the one time a woman can propose to a man?

You don’t remember that marginally okay movie from 2010 where Amy Adams decides that she’s going to travel to Dublin and propose to her boyfriend on Leap Day, because, according to Irish tradition, a man who is proposed to on leap day must accept it, or face some sort of penalty?

Well, the tradition is thought to date back to the 5th century, when, legend has it, an Irish nun called St Bridget complained to St Patrick that women had to wait too long for their suitors to propose. source

Well, if you didn’t and you were looking for an excuse to pop the question, we have you covered.

Artfully Elegant is offering selected Chris Ploof rings at 20% off through Monday, February 29. Simply head to this link and use the code LeapDay at checkout.

Now is the time, ladies. Besides, he probably doesn’t need some ancient Irish curse to make him say yes. Good luck!

Tags: chris ploof, leap day, proposal, wedding

It’s no secret that Bethlehem, Pennsylvania is one of the prettiest cities that we know of. And, of course, we have a bit of a bias since our brick and mortar location is right on Main Street in “The Christmas City.”

In honor of Valentine’s Day, we wanted to take a look at some of our favorite romantic spots in the city we call home. Also, don’t be shy, last minute Valentine’s Day shopping is nothing to be ashamed of. Come in and we’ll help you out.

Now, onto some romantic spots!

Payrow Plaza (Behind the Bethlehem Public Library)

Payrow Plaza has a unique view of the Fahy Bridge leading toward the southside which makes it a wonderful spot to spend some time and watch the evening go by. The plaza area is also home to a garden in the summer, a Unicorn statue (for real) and a Japanese garden.

All of those are great spots to pop the question! Hint, hint.

The Hoover Mason Trestle

Hoover Mason Trestle exploration at the old Bethlehem Steel Corp. complex. It was neat seeing some interpretive displays that used images from our collections at the #MoravianArchives. The Bethlehem Christkindlmarkt was nice, too! #christkindlmarkt #bethlehemsteel #igbethlehem

A photo posted by Tom McCullough (@t0mmy2times) on Dec 5, 2015 at 4:13pm PST

The Hoover Mason Trestle only opened last year and it’s already standing as one of the most breathtaking locations in the Lehigh Valley. There has already been at least one wedding on the structure, which allows visitors to walk along the former Bethlehem Steel blast furnaces while also learning about the history of the company.

it’s also probably a great place to pop the question. Hint. Hint.

Sand Island

Dayventures on lock today☺️ damn I needed all that fresh air, cold feet and good company. #bethlehem #lehighvalley #love #snow #woosah #igbethlehem

A photo posted by Amy B (@burnns_) on Jan 27, 2016 at 2:59pm PST

It’s a bit cold to be down near the Lehigh River this weekend, however, this little spot on Sand Island Park is not only perfect for pictures year-round, but it’s also a great spot to ask your special someone for their hand in marriage.

Hint. Hint.

Sun Inn Courtyard

A photo posted by @the_real_matt_k on Jul 26, 2015 at 2:09pm PDT

There’s something about taking a walk through history. The Sun Inn is one of the oldest inns in the United States and is open for self-guided tours on the weekends. It’s also a great place to get married after you get down on one knee and, well, you know…

Sitting Outside at Tapas on Main

musikfest with meem♡

A photo posted by @brinnautumn on Aug 10, 2015 at 3:23pm PDT

A stroll through little ol’ Bethlehem with my fiancé ? #560days

A photo posted by Alexandra Vidal Pérez (@alevidalperez) on Jan 2, 2016 at 5:16pm PST

There’s just something about eating al fresco in downtown Bethlehem that brings out the romance. One of our favorite spots to dine outside is at Tapas on Main at the corner of Main and Wall streets. Their sangria is delicious and the constant swirl of people walking by into the evening hours makes it a great place for conversation.

Oh, and it’s a great place to maybe ask someone to marry you. Hint. Hint.

Historic Hotel Bethlehem

Stunning Couple! #wedding #hotelbethlehem #downtownbethlehem #bride #blizzard2016 #china #historichotelsofamerica #lehighuniversity

A photo posted by Kathy Sanders (@kathy8265) on Jan 26, 2016 at 5:29pm PST

There aren’t many more romantic locations than Historic Hotel Bethlehem (right next door to Artfully Elegant!)

Whether your getting married, out on a date, or just taking a stroll through the city, the hotel is one stop you need to make.

So, what did we miss? What are some of your favorite romantic spots in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania?

Tags: list, romance

What better place to shop and experience Valentine’s Day than downtown Bethlehem? Use the #LoveinBethlehem hashtag during this season of love and share your own romantic experiences in the Christmas City.

Watch our short video to get you motivated to come in and visit us on Main Street, or convince your loved one that they may want to stop in on their own to pick up a little something special.

Tags: #loveinbethlehem, valentine's day, video

Jerry Rhodes, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, is a ceramic artist who creates unique wares through a variety of techniques. His work has been featured in galleries in Colorado, New Mexico, South Carolina, New York, and of course here in Pennsylvania.

Beyond that, his pieces belong in many private collections throughout the world.

Jerry has never had formal training, and he attributes it to his unique ways that he acquires his craft.

“I’m not limited by what I’m supposed to know, nor do I feel obligated to follow any well-established procedures,” he said.

By using both traditional and nontraditional methods, such as using horse hair or steel wool during the firing process, and by finishing some pieces with African Porcupine Quills, a dramatic, elegant, and one-of-a-kind piece is created. The artist does admit, “Sometimes the results are dramatically bad, but you’ll never see the bad ones!”

Rhodes has an Electrical Engineering degree from Penn State University, is a former Air Force officer, and currently serves as the Joint Staff Air and Missile Defense Liaison to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).

Seize your opportunity to own a piece from an amazing artist, exclusively in PA, at Artfully Elegant.

Tags: artist spotlight, jerry rhodes

After reading through many fun entries and making what seemed to be an impossible decision, we are please to announce the winner of its inaugural Proposal Contest, which was held over the holiday season.

Kathleen Matson, of Palmerton, won a $100 Artfully Elegant gift card for use in our store at 451 Main St., or online at www.artfullyelegant.com for her touching submission.

Matson and her husband, Gary, were married in 1996 after they mutually selected the same engagement ring at different times within the same store.

Matson’s story, listed in full detail below, was selected by Artfully Elegant President and CEO, Ranjeet Pawar, and Director of Operations, Erin Panner, as the best of a very poignant bunch.

“It was extremely difficult to choose,” said Panner. “We received so many great stories, it was tough to go through and pick just one, however, Kathleen’s stood out just a little bit more to us. We’re very happy to announce her as the winner.”

Stories were solicited on social media and submitted through Artfully Elegant’s website. Entries included stories that featured the Bethlehem Public Library, Lehigh University, Bethlehem’s Rose Garden, the movie “Back to the Future” and many more.

A full listing of stories can be found at this link:

Runners’ up were Samantha Kleinrock of Bethlehem and Dan Maher of Bethlehem, respectively.

Below, we will list the top three submissions.

Kathleen Matson’s submission:

“In January of 1996 Gary suddenly lost his wife of 30 years after a heart surgery. He spent a lot of his day mourning her loss. His daughter Nicole and I were friends and she invited me to go with her to cook meals, hang out, go out, etc.

“(Gary and I) became friends too. In April, we went on a date and began spending more time together. In June, Gary asked my father for permission to propose. In July, he learned he would need heart surgery

“He procured a beautiful ring and told me the line from “When Harry Met Sally” (my favorite movie) ‘When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with someone, you want that to start as soon as possible.’

“It was no fancy location, his kitchen in Bucks County, but he got down on one knee and proposed. Of course, I said, ‘Yes.’ During his surgery recovery, we picked invitations, venues, caterers, and set the date for December 7. After he left the hospital we went to pick wedding bands.

“We each went to a different side of the store. We both met in the middle and said, ‘I found the perfect ring.’ He asked me to take him to my selection first. He looked and said it was nice.

“Then we were off to see his selection. He took my hand and led me across the store to another jewelry counter and pointed to his selection. It was the exact same ring. Just another sign we were meant to be.

“Along the way to our wedding we encountered the naysayers who thought he was too old or I was too young, he didn’t wait long enough, and other reasons why we shouldn’t marry. On December 7, 1996 we did marry and this Monday celebrated 19 happy years together. No fancy location but a genuine heart-felt proposal that led to a long and happy marriage.”

Dan Maher’s submission:

October 2013. I pretended to be a German performer named Dieter Bieber. I helped run some of the games at Oktoberfest. In most of my downtime, I chatted up this nice girl named Elizabeth, who also worked the event. We both lived in very close social circles, but this was our first time actually talking to each other.

The entire time I stayed in character, pretending to be from Dusseldorf. A few days later, I talked to her on Facebook for the first time as Dan. I told her my friend Dieter said I should ask her out. For the next two years, I continued to insist Dan & Dieter were two separate people.

October 2015, as Dieter, I just finished hosting the Dachshund races at Oktoberfest. Elizabeth sat in the crowd. We were about fifty feet away from the exact spot where we had our first conversation. The sun was out. This was a happy moment. I planned to do this the following weekend, but the moment felt so right.

I asked the audience to stick around for one more thing. I told them I spent the past two years with Elizabeth and that I wanted more years with her. All the years with her. I stepped down from the faux-mountain from where I oversaw the adorable dog races. She stepped out from the stands. I asked her to be my wife. She let me know she was in a pretty committed relationship with Dan. I told her we were the same person. October 2016, we’re getting married. Fortunately, our friend Ben Hallman happened to video-record the dog races and just kept rolling.

Samantha Kleinrock’s submission:

Around this time last year I started to have a feeling that might now fiancé, Chuck, might propose! But winter came and went and in the spring, we spotted a house that we really loved (in walking distance to Artfully Elegant!) and decided to move forward with buying a house together.

In April, we closed on the home and started painting and making changes before finally moving in May. Our weekends were filled with family coming to help and projects and to-do lists.

And then, one random Saturday after breakfast at Blue Sky and a trip or three to Lowes, Chuck said “Hey, you should go get some pictures of the house printed for your grandparents anniversary party tomorrow.”

I said “yeah you’re probably right” and walked into the kitchen where he was standing looking through my camera.

I started to look through the before and after pictures until I came to a random picture of a bookshelf I knew I didn’t take, followed by another, and another…. and then a picture of Chuck holding a poster saying “Sam” and the next “will” and so on.

I truly blacked out and just remember ending up sitting on the kitchen floor wearing a ring he designed around a diamond from his mothers engagement ring.

We think he officially asked and we I think I officially said yes. After drinking some champagne, we called our families and not one single person answered the phone. We eventually got to share the good news and surprised my extended family in a toast to my grandparents marriage at their 65th anniversary party the next day. We’re getting married in Bethlehem at the Ice House in October!

Artfully Elegant would like to personally thank the dozens of submissions. We will continue to share them throughout the year to inspire others on their own proposal endeavors.

Tags: contest, proposal, winnters

The gifts have been distributed among friends and family, the countdown has been chanted, champagne has been popped, and resolutions have been made. Now every one is back to work on a cold January new year.

Now what?

Now it’s time to think about yourself for a change. You’ve worked hard picking out the perfect gifts for everyone, you’ve stuck to that new year’s resolution (kinda) and even acted like you were happy to see the boss that first Monday back to the old grind.

Good job! Now go pat yourself on the back with a little retail therapy with these fun suggestions.

ROXANNA NECKLACE by Laura Elizabeth

What better way to break away from the chilly gloom of winter than a little sparkle. And bright colors?! Pair with your cutest slouchy sweater and a nice cold winter ale and you’re set for even the chilliest evenings. Bonus: You can dangle it in front of your friends and practice your hypnotist skills.

I LOVE MY CAT CUPPA THIS CUPPA THAT MUG by Ore Originals

Don’t really feel like a beer? How about a cozy cup of your favorite herbal tea with your cat curled up in your lap. Let your inner crazy cat lady shine. Say it loud and say it proud with this ‘I heart my cat’ mug. No kitty can resist an owner with this mug who’s wearing a pair of comfy pants. (cat hair not included.)

KAPOW VASE MINT by Chive

Make your space ‘da bomb’ with this teal grenade vase. What better way to say I’m comfortable with flowers AND explosives than with this practical home accessory. The subtle coloring matched with the to-scale size makes this ideal for all home styles.

LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE MEDIUM FRAMED PICTURE by East of India

Personalize your space with art. ‘Live the Life You Love’ should be everyone’s mantra. Do you love to hang glide? Is lion taming your thing? How about knitting sweaters for telephone poles in your community. You do you, baby! Remind yourself everyday to do stuff that makes you happy!

Tags: art, home, jewelry, treat yo self

Still need to get a few gifts before Christmas morning? Join the club.

Luckily, we have a few quick ideas that you can stop in and pick up at Artfully Elegant at 451 Main Street in downtown Bethlehem. But, don’t wait!

For Her

Mini Bowls by Zpots are the perfect gift for the girl you have no idea what to buy for. She can use it as decoration or a place for some of her favorite pieces of jewelry.

For Him

The Two Flying Fox Wallet Card from Zootility Tool will be the hit of Christmas dinner, especially when he’s using it to open all the bottles of beer for everyone. It’s definitely a conversation piece.

For Mom

Mom’s love fun jewelry, right? Well look no further than these Spalted Tamarind Wind Pendants from Once Again Sam. They are unique, just like mom!

For Baby

Do you know someone who is expecting? Sometimes the best presents are those that others may not think of, like this Octopus Clock from Modern Moose. It’s the last piece to a complete baby room.

Okay, we helped you out as much as we can. Now, you just have to get in here.

It sometimes seems like finding the right item for the men in your life is more difficult that it should be.

Do he want a new Xbox? Maybe a new smartphone? No, not this year.

This year, he’s are looking to take a step into sophistication. There’s no place better to do that than at Artfully Elegant, at 451 Main Street, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania or on our online shop: www.artfullyelegant.com.

Take a look at these three items to get your gift-giving juices flowing.

Plantware Watches

Watches are making a comeback and Plantwear  is leading the charge. With their models Plantware runs continuously in any kind of natural or artificial light for a lifetime of use. They show its position as a worldwide leader in timekeeping technology.

ZOOTILITY TOOLS

We all have those hokey promotional bottle openers that get through about five beer bottles before they snap in half. It’s time he got serious about the way he opens his bottles, and Zootility Tools are the coolest way to have fun, while still being useful and long lasting. It’s time to take the cheap opener you got handed at a music festival and throw it out the window. Why would you choose a freebie as something you carry with you all day every day?

Boyce Studio Wood Planters

Any man knows that surrounding himself with calm objects results in peace of mind. Boyce Studio is modern wood goods, handmade in Downtown LA. Their products are created from a belief that the things that we use every day should be functional, beautiful, and last a lifetime. Their gorgeous wooden vases are beautifully designed and well crafted and perfect for the home or office.

Treat your man to a new style of holiday gift this year at Artfully Elegant.

Tags: boyce, citizen, mens, mens gifts, watches