Inspired by "25 Days of Christmas", we are launching a special series of our own - "26 Days of Mochi & Jolie". With all of our love, we have been focusing on designing and creating Jewelry and Watch pieces for dog and cat lovers throughout this year. We devoted the full 2014 to our most loyal, selfless 4 legged companions and no matter what the future holds for us, we want them to know they will always be loved and treasured, and they are family forever.
Let's start the Day 1 of "26 Days of Mochi & Jolie" - Beagle! Beagle is intelligent, amiable, determined, and gentle. In the United States the Beagle ranked 4th most popular breed in both 2012 and 2013. Not only are Beagles excellent hunting dogs and loyal companions, they are also happy-go-lucky, funny, and—thanks to their pleading expression—cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy the company of other dogs and of people as well. Beagles love to follow their noses, which can sometimes get them into sticky situations. These dogs are solid, sturdy, and fairly easy to care for, but they do need to run around and let off steam.
What We Love,MoJo Events
So we headed to New York...
MoJo Events, Behind the CurtainCommentWe packed all of our jewels and watches and headed to New York two weeks ago . Things didn't started smoothly for us first - we missed our fight for the first time ever! And there was no more non-stop flight to New York left on that day and the only option was to get on a flight to Minneapolis–Saint Paul first, and then connected to another flight to New York. Hardly slept for ten minutes the whole night, we landed in JFK as one piece and headed to the show venue immediately... The rest was history.
We met lots of nice people and made friends with our fabulous and talented neighbors. It was super fun, exciting and utterly exhausting - the common symptoms of a professional show goer.
The weather was beautiful in New York. Not too hot and humid in the month of August, we considered ourselves very lucky. The food was always delicious there, and we even tried out the famous "croissant donut". It was yummy!
We always adore New York, and will go back there again soon! :)
Companion Collection Pendant Necklaces
Paw Collection Necklaces and Bracelets
Paw Collection Station Necklaces
The new Whisper Collection Bracelets
Watch Collection
The unique coffee cup we discovered at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport.
Our everyday breakfast
Rewarding ourselves after a long, hard day of work
The famous "croissant donut"
Leave your prints wherever you go...
Product Product, What We LoveComment
After many months of designing, sampling and making changes on the smallest details, our new Paw Collection has finally completed and arrived. Like other previous projects, this one has brought us lots of fun, but also many challenges. We hope you can feel our pouring love when you are browsing this new collection, which includes 2 Paw Necklaces, 3 Paw Station Necklaces and 3 Paw Bracelets. All of them feature beautiful hand-selected natural semi-precious gemstones in 925 sterling silver setting. They are truly beautiful and sentimental. Lots of love, from us to you.
Holiday 2013 - You're on my wish list!
MoJo Events, What We LoveCommentOur Holiday Event of the Year is here! Thank you for all of our fans! Without you guys, we won't be here today! Happy Holidays!
2014 Mochi & Jolie Calendar Call for Entries
What We LoveComment
It is that TIME OF THE YEAR again! We are calling for all photo entries for 2014 Mochi & Jolie Calendar!!
This has become one of our favorite Mochi & Jolie tradition since 2011. Every year we are doing something special to support animal rescue. Our yearly Mochi & Jolie Calendars are becoming a collector's item and they are sold worldwide. All the proceeds are donated to varies animal rescue groups at the end of every year. If your fur baby owns any products from Mochi & Jolie (clothing, bows, toys, etc), it is his/her chance to shine and help all the unfortunate others. Join us to make this world a better place with love and care!!
If you'd like to participate, here are the details:
1. Max. 3 photos per dog. No limits on how many dogs you want to enter per household. After all, there are only 12 months per year.
2. All the photos entered, your pup must be wearing or showing with a product of Mochi & Jolie.
3. To ensure the high printing quality, you must have a high resolution of the photo you submit.
4. We prefer to have a very simple background, both indoor or outdoor will be fine.
5. Please email your entry photos to hello@mochiandjolie.com with your baby's name, birthday and where he/she is currently living (city and country).
6. The deadline for all the entries is Sept. 15th, 2013.
7. If your photo is chosen, you are giving us all the permissions to enhance the image and use for the intended purposes.
8. If your photo is chosen, we will send you a new 2014 Mochi & Jolie Calendar for free and donate the proceeds on behalf of you and your fur baby.
9. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at hello@mochiandjolie.com.
Highlights from SuperZoo show 2013, Las Vegas
Behind the Curtain, MoJo EventsCommentWe are already back from the SuperZoo show in Las Vegas late last month. As usual, we had a great time despite the triple digit hot temperature while we were there. Mochi and Jolie met lots of people and some new fur friends too. :)
Mochi waited patiently while we were setting the show booth up.
Our corner booth is ready for the visitors!
The new Jewelry Collection presentation looks great!
Love the Watch Collection and Toys display too!
Our own "candy corner" - who can resist those beautiful bows!
Working at the show must be very tiring, look, Jolie was already out on the first day!
The two bosses were having lots of meetings and getting deals done!
Back to the hotel after a long, hard day work at the show, Mochi tucked herself in comfortably.
Last day at the show, even Mochi was tired.
Well, you know where to find Jolie... :)
Finally, the show was over and we were on our way back. The bosses insisted on sharing the front seats. Good bye, Vegas! We shall see you again soon! :)
Highlights from America's Family Pet Expo 2013
MoJo Events, Behind the CurtainCommentAmerica's Family Pet Expo 2013, April 19 - 21, Costa Mesa, CA
3 beautiful days. Lots of people.
"Alert: human is taking a lunch break! I have to be very concentrated." - Jolie
Mochi takes her break.
"Oh man! Work is tiring!" - Jolie
30 Days of Thanks to Our Fur Babies
What We LoveCommentFrom this November 1st, we started a daily series we called "30 Days of Thanks to Our Fur Babies". We know our babies love us and we love them too, but how much have we learned or appreciated from them? Everyday we did a little "soul" searching and realized we have actually learned a lot from our pups. They really have changed our lives and made us a better person, less selfish and more giving. It is such a heartwarming and rejuvenating experience for us and we will treasure it forever.
Interview with a creative Halloween costume mastermind
What We LoveCommentHalloween has always been one of our favorite holidays. Not only it is super fun, but also it is the best time to unleash your inside creative genius. We have been a big fan of two little "rocking" yorkies, Rory and Lane, for their unparalleled Halloween costumes year after year. Our curiosity of finding out more about the "mastermind" behind the curtains leads us to this interesting interview with Rory and Lane's proud mommy, Ashley.
Q: Ashley, every year you came up with some really creative ideas for your girls' costumes, where do you usually get your ideas/inspirations from?
A: It really varies. Their Olympic Gymnast costumes were something I had wanted to do for a long time, so when the USA women brought home the team gold this year (for only the second time in history!) I knew it was perfect timing. My husband came up with the idea for the Hooters Girls costumes. I know; I know; shocking. The others were more of a joint effort.
I always try to think in terms of what would be a great costume or couples costume in general, not what would be a great costume for dogs in particular. I think the distinction is important, because often times if you think in terms of costumes for a dog, then you really unintentionally limit yourself. I prefer to think of the costumes and then try to think how I can modify it to work for Rory and Lane. I know a lot of people like coordinating human and dog costumes, but I think it’s more fun and challenging when the pups can stand alone.
Q: Which year's costume is your top favorite so far?
A: That’s a tough one! I think MY favorite costumes were this year’s Olympic Gymnasts. They will always hold a special place in my heart since I was a competitive gymnast growing up, and, even as an adult, I love the sport so much. That being said, I think the overwhelming favorite based on reactions from the public were the Hooters Girls last year.
Q: I am sure you always enjoy the making process, but what are the most memorable difficulties you have encountered during this creative process?
A: There is always something that seems to pop up at the last minute, especially when you create very detailed costumes and add a pup or two into the mix! This year we were about to leave for a costume contest when I noticed one of the sleeves on Lane’s leotard was missing some Swarovski crystals and had wet spots (drool marks) on it! I can only assume she had seen the shiny Swarovski crystals on her sleeve reflecting in the light and determined they were simply too tempting of a treat to pass up. Thankfully, I insisted we buy extra crystals for just such an occasion, and my husband got to work with the applicator applying them before we headed out the door. For anyone concerned, she didn’t ingest the crystals at all (I counted), just plucked them off and spit them out.
Last year, as part of their Hooters Girl costumes, they wore brown pouches with rolls of cash, tiny pencils and waitressing tablets inside of them. We thought we had affixed everything inside the pouches securely, but we quickly discovered that wasn’t the case. When the girls shook, the fake money went flying everywhere, “making it rain” if you will. A few minutes and a lot more tape later the issue was resolved.
A few years ago, Lane was Slimer. (Rory was a Ghostbuster). We stuffed Lane’s Slimer costume so full the first time we tried it on her she couldn’t walk in it! It was a fine line between getting her plump enough to resemble Slimer without restricting her movement. Without a lot of exaggerated and obvious padding, she kind of just looked like a porkie Yorkie in green pajama
Q: How long does it usually take from forming an idea to get the costume made?
A: I pretty much start thinking about what the girls will be for Halloween a year in advance. And yes, I think I’ve already decided on Rory and Lane’s costumes for 2013. The person who takes my horrible drawings and turns them into beautiful creations is quite busy, so I try to start talking with her in July or August to get all the details ironed out. Since I can’t sew (even a button), I rely on her to tell me if something I’m picturing won’t work, or we will both realize modifications will have to be made along the way. Depending on the costume, I can spend a good bit of time looking at the human version and trying to figure out how to make it translate on to a 10 pound dog. The leotards were especially difficult, because there were so many details that I wanted to incorporate. I often pull together the accessories myself, so it can take a few weeks to find regular everyday items in a Yorkie’s size.
Q: How are your two girls, Rory and Lane, feel about every year's costumes? Do they have a favorite of their own?
A: It’s no secret Rory and Lane are exceptionally good sports when it comes to being dressed up in all kind of things.
I often get asked about how they tolerated the ping pong ball enhanced chests of the Hooters Girl costumes, but it really didn’t bother them at all.
Lane didn’t really like the hood on her Little Red Riding Hood costume and froze when I put it on her, but I called her bluff by pulling out my secret weapon, her miniature rubber soccer ball. As soon as I squeaked her ball, she came running and never gave the hood a second thought.
Rory was a super good sport that Halloween balancing granny glasses from Build-A-Bear on her nose, as the wolf in grandma’s clothes.
In general, I try to make sure their costumes fit them well, so their movement isn’t restricted in any way, and they are comfortable. Their favorite costumes probably are the ones that involve the least amount of me fussing with their hair! I don’t think the costumes themselves feel much different than their everyday wear to them. As far as attitude wise, we have always joked that Lane was thrilled to be a career Hooters girl, but Rory was simply working at Hooters to help pay her way through med school.
Q: Do you dress up yourself for the Halloween too?
A: I haven’t dressed up in a real costume for a few years. This year I broke my own rule, about wearing Hello Kitty as more than a shoe or accessory out in public as an adult woman (but I’m so young at heart!), with a Halloween Hello Kitty tee shirt, but that was the extent of it. I think I end up so focused on Rory and Lane that costumes for my husband and me are an afterthought! I am certain none of our costumes have ever been as creative as Rory and Lane’s though.
Thank you, Ashley for taking time to share your super fun experiences with us! And thank you, Rory and Lane, for being exceptionally good sports! We love you girls and can't wait to see your 2013 Halloween costumes!
SuperZoo 2012 Wrap Up
MoJo EventsCommentThis September, we headed to SuperZoo in Las Vegas again! It is always a great place to be, showcasing the latest and existing product lines, meeting new customers and hugging old friends. This year's event was exactly the same and more. We were happy to introduce our brands and products tomore boutique owners and buyers. We are working hard for a successful year of 2012 and beyond! :)
Our bosses, Mochi and Jolie seemed like had a great time at the show too! They were so popular at the show, many people came to take their photos and they acted like pros. They gave out many hugs and kisses too! :)
Mochi's birthday pawty!
What We LoveComment
Mochi's Birthday Pawty was super fun and yummy! :) Look at all the delicious food we had! Especially the special homemade all organic coconut cupcakes!! Yum!! Not only it was a big hit for all the 4-legged ones, but also for all the 2-legged ones too! :)
We turned the office into a little "pawty land"! :)
Mochi made her birthday wishes and posed for all the cameras! :) Then the "can't wait for any longer" and "dig in" time started!! The little coconut cupcakes were gone in a minute and they came back for more!! :) Everyone had a great time and so much fun!! Thank you everyone for coming to Mochi's birthday pawty! She is truly so blessed and loved by so many people!! :)
Puppy Love Photo Contest to Celebrate Mochi's Birthday
What We LoveCommentTo celebrate Mochi's birthday on August 6th this year, we hosted a little fun event: "Puppy Love Photo Contest" on our Facebook page. Many fans submitted their beloved furry children's baby photos and it was really a tough competition! All the baby photos are so out of this world cute! They have brought us lots of smiles and happiness. Thank you for everyone who participated in this event! We had lots of fun!
And here are the Winner and the Honorable Mentions:
Mochi & Jolie has been selected to exhibit at Unique LA Show!
MoJo EventsComment
We are so excited to announce this great news -- Mochi & Jolie has been selected to exhibit at the upcoming 4th annual UNIQUE LA spring show!
Unique LA is the largest independent design show in the country, attendees get the rare chance to meet and shop directly from over 325 hand-selected designers and artists. All of the products at the show are made right here in the USA.
Unique LA is the only event out there that focuses on and features modern, curated, Made-in-America goods. They are passionate about great design and the craft of Made in the USA, just like us. :-)
So mark your calendar and prepare for a super fun May weekend! Come and say hello!
When: May 12 & 13 (Saturday & Sunday) // 11am – 6pm both days
Where:The California Market Center (110 East Ninth Street, LA, CA 90079)
Cost: $10 at the door or online (Kids 12 and under are free), 10% of ticket sales go to the local non-profit organization CicLAvia.
He is my dog.
What We LoveCommentHe is my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds.
He is the part of me that can reach out into the sea.
He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being;
by the way he rests against my leg;
by the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile;
When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive.
When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile.
When I am happy, he is joy unbounded.
When I am a fool, he ignores it.
When I succeed, he brags.
WITHOUT HIM, I AM ONLY ANOTHER HUMAN. WITH HIM, I AM ALL-POWERFUL.
He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion.
With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace.
He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant.
His head on my knee can heal my human hurts.
His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things.
HE IS MY DOG.
--- author unknown
Mochi & Jolie's Little Stars 2011
What We LoveCommentA brand new year, 2012 is fast approaching. Looking back in year of 2011, we were crazy busy doing the stuffs that we love -- design and create the products that will be loved by all the little pups, and most importantly, connect with all of our little stars. Everytime when we see their cute faces in those adorable pictures, we smile. And we smile A LOT. :)
These are only just a small portion of all the photos we received during the year, but every single one of them is making a mark on the growth of this company and becoming a part of Mochi & Jolie family. We want to wish all of our little stars shining brightly and beautifully for the coming new year and we woof you all!!!
Love always.
The 12 dogs of Christmas
What We Love1 Comment
Super Zoo 2011 -- Las Vegas
MoJo EventsCommentIt is always good to visit Las Vegas once a while, especially in September, because that is when Super Zoo is on.
This year, Super Zoo was a sold out show. There were still companies on the waiting list trying to get a booth to exhibit. What a booming industry! Lots of people visited our booth, old friends, new faces, and felt like we barely had a moment stop talking for a while. Though the overall economy is still not fully recovered yet, but we noticed quite a few brand new boutique stores are opening everywhere. Those new store owners are young, ambitious, and full of fresh ideas. We love to see new blood come in and bring fresh concepts and ideas to this industry. And hopefully they will bring more great products and services to the customers and their pups! What a great show it was! Fun, exciting, and inspiring!
So long, Vegas, for now. We will be back next year this time again. Till then, enjoy life and stay well!
Just a Dog
What We LoveCommentFrom time to time, people tell me to lighten up…"it’s just a dog," or that's a lot of money for "just a dog." They don't understand the
distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog.” Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just
a dog.” Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog" and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day. If you too think it's "just a dog," then you probably understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or just a promise." "Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog"
brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person. Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day. I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a man or woman." So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog," just smile, because they "JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND.”
--- Author unknown
California Gift Show (July 22 - 25, 2011)
MoJo EventsComment
This summer we attended our very first non-pet show: California Gift Show in Los Angeles. It is a very different experience for us and we have made many new friends. It is specially happy for us to see some familiar faces when we were there.
Since this is a non-pet show, buyers are from all kind of different fields. 7 out of 10 buyers walked into our booth and thought all these clothes are made for human babies and kids. When they were told these are for the pups, they all laughed and amazed. We took that as a compliment every time. :)
The 2nd MoJo Top Dog Award -- Valentine 2011
What We LoveCommentThe sweetest day of the year -- Valentine is around the corner. We, at Mochi & Jolie, celebrate this day with our beloved pups!!! They brought so much uncompromising pure love to us, we are the true lucky ones to have them in our life. Thank God for sending these angels down and we LOVE LOVE LOVE them!!! To honor this special day, we hosted our 2nd "MoJo Top Dog Award -- Valentine 2011" on our Facebook Club and the winners were voted by all our fans. We have received many beautiful and creative entries. All the contestants are super adorable! They brought so much fun and love this holiday.
In the end, the super special Miss Coco Puffz took the grand title and followed by Lily, Aolani and Rocky.
Big Congratulation to all the winners! And here are the Winners and all the Honorable Mentions:
