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Custom and Handmade Gift Ideas to Make Mother's Day Extra Special

Stacey Bowers

Mothers Day Jewelry.jpg

I’ve been missing my mom so much while self-quarantining. We usually hang out every Sunday (and like 3 other days of the week, honestly), and the closest we’ve gotten to hanging out in four weeks is when I sat on the other end of the porch from her and my dad and scolded them for getting too close to the mailman. Not seeing my parents has been the hardest part of isolation for me. That and finding dried beans. Ok and maybe a lot of other stuff. And, yes, I know I have it easy compared to a lot of people, but I’m gonna make a bean joke where I can. (I;m thinking about thos Beans.)

Anyway, I keep thinking about how Mother’s Day is going to be…. er… weird this year. This was actually going to be the first year in several years that I was going to skip participating in a craft show and spend Mother’s Day with my mom. Now I’m scheming up ways to make Mother’s Day special from afar, and I know a lot of you are doing the same thing.

I’m already working on custom jewelry for husbands to give to their wives, wives to give to their wives, kids to give to their moms, and moms to give to their kids who have just become parents. I thought I’d round up some of my most-loved and most-creative jewelry ideas for all kinds of moms this year.

Whether mom is just really into working puzzles or she’s your missing puzzle piece right now or all of the above, this handmade bronze puzzle piece necklace will soothe her soul. These hand-cast bronze puzzle piece charms are modeled after pieces fr…

Whether mom is just really into working puzzles or she’s your missing puzzle piece right now or all of the above, this handmade bronze puzzle piece necklace will soothe her soul. These hand-cast bronze puzzle piece charms are modeled after pieces from my favorite puzzle I have at home and which I’ve been working a lot these last few weeks. You can order just one necklace with one bronze puzzle piece or get a matching one to send to your missing puzzle piece person to brighten their day.

Immortalize mom’s empty threats from childhood with a keychain that says “Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around.” These hand-stamped brass keychains can be customized to say whatever you like. They also make great gifts for dad if your dad was more of …

Immortalize mom’s empty threats from childhood with a keychain that says “Don’t Make Me Turn This Car Around.” These hand-stamped brass keychains can be customized to say whatever you like. They also make great gifts for dad if your dad was more of the mother figure in your life.

These custom birthstone necklaces can feature the birthstones of all the special people in mom’s life. You can also get mom a gorgeous strand of just her birthstone. See all my birthstone jewelry here.

These custom birthstone necklaces can feature the birthstones of all the special people in mom’s life. You can also get mom a gorgeous strand of just her birthstone. See all my birthstone jewelry here.

Custom name necklaces are always a hit with moms. Add custom stamped tags for the little ones in mom’s life, and the necklaces come in silver and gold. You can also mix and match the color of the tags like the necklace shown.

Custom name necklaces are always a hit with moms. Add custom stamped tags for the little ones in mom’s life, and the necklaces come in silver and gold. You can also mix and match the color of the tags like the necklace shown.

Whether mom is edgy or sweet, these custom stamped mantra cuff bracelets can say her favorite catchphrase, snarky mantra or inspirational quote. Bonus: they are on sale while we’re working from home. Some of the favorite phrases right now are “Get S…

Whether mom is edgy or sweet, these custom stamped mantra cuff bracelets can say her favorite catchphrase, snarky mantra or inspirational quote. Bonus: they are on sale while we’re working from home. Some of the favorite phrases right now are “Get Shit Done,” “Indomitable,” and “Take No Shit.”

Maybe mom needs a little motivation right now. Maybe she misses traveling and hiking in the great outdoors. This “Keep Going” stamped mountain range necklace will make her heart sing.

Maybe mom needs a little motivation right now. Maybe she misses traveling and hiking in the great outdoors. This “Keep Going” stamped mountain range necklace will make her heart sing.

Maybe mom’s got a case of Arkansas pride. Maybe she misses Arkansas. Either way, this handmade bronze Arkansas necklace is the perfect thing to add to her jewelry collection. The hand-cast bronze Arkansas charm has a warm, golden glow and a substant…

Maybe mom’s got a case of Arkansas pride. Maybe she misses Arkansas. Either way, this handmade bronze Arkansas necklace is the perfect thing to add to her jewelry collection. The hand-cast bronze Arkansas charm has a warm, golden glow and a substantial, luxurious feel. These Arkansas necklaces are handmade and kiln-fired in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio.

Is mom the bee’s knees? Tell her with this elegant honey bee honey drop necklace that features a faceted citrine as a little drop of honey with a brass bee charm on a gold-filled chain.

Is mom the bee’s knees? Tell her with this elegant honey bee honey drop necklace that features a faceted citrine as a little drop of honey with a brass bee charm on a gold-filled chain.

Happy Mother’s Day to dog moms and cat moms, too! Anyone who knows my work knows there is an extensive selection of cat lady and cat mom jewelry in my collection, so I’m shining a light on these dog mom necklaces.

Happy Mother’s Day to dog moms and cat moms, too! Anyone who knows my work knows there is an extensive selection of cat lady and cat mom jewelry in my collection, so I’m shining a light on these dog mom necklaces.

Treat mom like the queen she is with this Queen Mother hand-stamped necklace. When you get to see her again, have tea with her, too. Missing mom’s bear hugs? Then maybe the Mama Bear stamped necklace is more her style.

Treat mom like the queen she is with this Queen Mother hand-stamped necklace. When you get to see her again, have tea with her, too. Missing mom’s bear hugs? Then maybe the Mama Bear stamped necklace is more her style.

Mom could always use a reminder of how strong she really is. This Strong As Hell stamped necklace is the perfect gift for one of the strongest people in your life.

Mom could always use a reminder of how strong she really is. This Strong As Hell stamped necklace is the perfect gift for one of the strongest people in your life.

Like the look of the custom name necklace but want to add a little more flair to it? These custom name necklaces with lockets will let mom put a tiny picture of someone she loves in a locket and wear it near her heart.

Like the look of the custom name necklace but want to add a little more flair to it? These custom name necklaces with lockets will let mom put a tiny picture of someone she loves in a locket and wear it near her heart.

How many times have you heard mom deny you a Happy Meal with the phrase “there’s food at home’? Immortalize her favorite shut-down with a custom brass stamped keychain.

How many times have you heard mom deny you a Happy Meal with the phrase “there’s food at home’? Immortalize her favorite shut-down with a custom brass stamped keychain.

Want a cute or snarky card to go with your Mother’s Day gift? You can add one of these greeting cards to your package. If you want to mail mom’s gift directly to her, we can fill out the card by hand with whatever you want it to say.

Want a cute or snarky card to go with your Mother’s Day gift? You can add one of these greeting cards to your package. If you want to mail mom’s gift directly to her, we can fill out the card by hand with whatever you want it to say.

If you are looking for more ideas of great mother’s day jewelry, please email me at stacey@bangupbetty.com and we can work together to create something perfect.

Bang-Up Betty is handmade, hand-stamped jewelry created in my North Little Rock, Arkansas, studio. When we’re not self-isolating, you can find my jewelry at Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock, Arkansas.


Bang-Up Betty Is Calling Stifft Station Gifts Home: Custom Jewelry Stamped Onsite

Stacey Bowers

Starting in September, you can shop Bang-Up Betty’s extended collection of jewelry and gifts at Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock or have a custom piece of jewelry made at the gift shop.

Starting in September, you can shop Bang-Up Betty’s extended collection of jewelry and gifts at Stifft Station Gifts in Little Rock or have a custom piece of jewelry made at the gift shop.

Starting September 2019, Bang-Up Betty is calling Stifft Station Gifts home. You’ll be able to browse a huge selection of Bang-Up Betty pins, stickers, gifts and jewelry all in one place and have custom jewelry made while you shop the absolutely magical and gigantic variety of gifts for all ages, handmade jewelry, local goodies, yarn and other crafting supplies that Stiff Station Gifts offers in the heart of the historic Stifft Station neighborhood in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Tuesday, Thursdays and extended hours during the holidays, you’ll be able to drop by Stifft Station Gifts and have custom jewelry stamped while you shop, and Bang-Up Betty’s extended section of jewelry, gifts, pins and more is available during store hours. The Stifft Station Gifts store is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and is located at 3009 W. Markham Street with parking in the rear and a back entrance for convenience.

To celebrate Bang-Up Betty’s new partnership with Stifft Station Gifts, we’re throwing a party Thursday, Sept. 5, from 5-8 p.m. at the boutique. Say hello, enjoy refreshments, see the new digs, and put your name in the hat for prizes; we’ll be doing a giveaway every hour!

Bang-Up Betty is subversive and sweet hand-stamped jewelry made in Little Rock, Arkansas. Starting in September, you can shop Bang-Up Betty at Stifft Station Gifts and have custom jewelry made while you shop.

Bang-Up Betty is subversive and sweet hand-stamped jewelry made in Little Rock, Arkansas. Starting in September, you can shop Bang-Up Betty at Stifft Station Gifts and have custom jewelry made while you shop.

Stifft Station Gifts was opened in 2015 by Cindi Booth, a longtime craftsperson, weaver and artisan jewelry maker behind Bijou Booth jewelry. Her boutique showcases a huge selection of locally made crafts and jewelry as well as gifts for animal-lovers, children, artists, nature-enthusiasts, puzzle-workers, dog and cat parents, cooks, and those with a wicked sense of humor. Learn more about Stifft Station Gifts here. Find Stifft Station Gifts on Instagram and Facebook for updates and new gift inventory.

Stifft Station Gifts offers a bountiful selection of gifts for gardeners, cooks, crafters, nature-lovers, dog and cat parents and more in Little Rock’s historic Stifft Station neighborhood.

Stifft Station Gifts offers a bountiful selection of gifts for gardeners, cooks, crafters, nature-lovers, dog and cat parents and more in Little Rock’s historic Stifft Station neighborhood.

Local jewelry designer Stacey Bowers, AKA Bang-Up Betty, has been hand-stamping funny, fierce and activist statement jewelry since 2013. Bang-Up Betty jewelry, pins and apparel have been published in Bust Magazine, Chris Guillebeau’s 100 Side Hustles, Erin Wood’s Women Make Arkansas, and has been seen on Buzzfeed, Huffington Post and a few celebrities. You can find updates from Bang-Up Betty on Instagram and Facebook and at bangupbetty.com.

Funny, Customizable Zodiac Jewelry to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

Stacey Bowers

Wear the best, snarkiest, and truest pieces of your sign proudly with a customizable zodiac necklace. Choose from my crafted phrases or come up with your own here.

Wear the best, snarkiest, and truest pieces of your sign proudly with a customizable zodiac necklace. Choose from my crafted phrases or come up with your own here.

Your zodiac sign can speak volumes about you. Let your zodiac necklace say a little extra about the most charming — or hilarious — parts of your personality.

I used to have my doubts about the truth behind what your zodiac sign supposedly says about you, but after too many friends called me out for being the world’s biggest Virgo , I started to believe.

This Virgo zodiac necklace was made by a particular, neat-freak, overachieving Virgo just for you. I will make sure it’s packaged perfectly and shipped quickly, for my fellow perfectionists. Click here to see the zodiac necklace collection.

This Virgo zodiac necklace was made by a particular, neat-freak, overachieving Virgo just for you. I will make sure it’s packaged perfectly and shipped quickly, for my fellow perfectionists. Click here to see the zodiac necklace collection.

I’m not on the level of being able to list all your flaws to you when you tell me your sign, but I had a lot of fun researching each sign’s characteristics and creating a mantra, funny catchphrase or snarky word or two to complement each zodiac sign.

Each zodiac sign in this collection of necklaces is represented here with a solid brass charm pressed with the name of your sign, the glyph and animal or character symbol. Zodiac charms swing freely over a 3/4-inch brass or lead-free pewter circle that is hand-stamped with a phrase I came up with or a phrase of your choice, up to 24 characters. Longer phrases will be stamped with a smaller font (see the Taurus necklace below for an example).

This Taurus zodiac necklace was made for the strong-willed, stubborn, ambitious Tauruses out there. It reads “Nevertheless She Persisted.” Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

This Taurus zodiac necklace was made for the strong-willed, stubborn, ambitious Tauruses out there. It reads “Nevertheless She Persisted.” Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

If you select “silver,” your necklace with be made with an 18-inch sterling silver chain, lead-free pewter circle and brass zodiac charm. If you select “gold,” your necklace will be made with an 18-inch gold-filled chain, brass circle and brass zodiac charm.

I stamped each of the pictured necklaces with phrases I came up with to pair perfectly with each zodiac sign’s significant characteristics or mantras that I thought suited them:

Aries Necklace: Don’t Cross Me

Aquarius Necklace: Leave Me Alone

Cancer Necklace: Ride Or Die

Capricorn Necklace: Boss Bitch

Gemini Necklace: Bookworm

Aries are known to be confident, determined and optimistic with a hint of impulsiveness and a short temper. Don’t get on their bad side! Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

Aries are known to be confident, determined and optimistic with a hint of impulsiveness and a short temper. Don’t get on their bad side! Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

Leo Necklace: Have Courage

Libra Necklace: It’s Ok To Say No

Pisces Necklace: Be Careful With Me

Sagittarius Necklace: Keep Moving

Scorpios are known to be loyal, passionate friends, but don't accuse them of being wrong. Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

Scorpios are known to be loyal, passionate friends, but don't accuse them of being wrong. Click here to see the entire zodiac necklace collection.

Scorpio Necklace: Always Right

Taurus Necklace: Nevertheless She Persisted

Virgo Necklace: Judging You

To view the whole collection and see how well your zodiac necklace matches your personality or to come up with your own phrase, click here. If you would like your own phrase, up to 24 characters, you will be prompted to enter it at checkout. Please double check it for spelling and correctness!

Hammered in Arkansas: A Jewelry Maker's Best Moments of 2018

Stacey Bowers

Bang-Up Betty has been stamping handmade jewelry in Arkansas since 2013. Celebrating a 5th anniversary, seeing Julianne Moore wear my jewelry and supporting great charitable causes were among some of the highlights of this Arkansas jewelry maker’s 2…

Bang-Up Betty has been stamping handmade jewelry in Arkansas since 2013. Celebrating a 5th anniversary, seeing Julianne Moore wear my jewelry and supporting great charitable causes were among some of the highlights of this Arkansas jewelry maker’s 2018.

Looking back on the year, especially as all my friends are sharing their “best nine” Instagram posts, I always like to pick and choose my personal “best nine” since photo “likes” sometimes don’t do the right things justice (but are always appreciated and welcome!). 2018 was a banner year at Bang-Up Betty. I celebrated some huge milestones, saw celebrities wear my jewelry, got to raise money for several local causes that are close to my heart, and was recognized in some really amazing ways.

Thank you so much to everyone who brought a piece of Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry into their lives or gave it to a loved one this year. Thank you to everyone who came to see me at pop-up craft shows and events. Thank you to everyone who shared social media posts and told pals about my jewelry. Thank you to my stockists across the country who brought my jewelry to their cities. Every year I do this is more magical than the last. Every morning I wake up grateful and astounded at the support my home state of Arkansas has given me. Thank you, thank you, thank you again.

Now, for the countdown…

Janelle Monae wore my I Believe in Science pin along with many other makers’ enamel pins during her Today Show performance.

Janelle Monae wore my I Believe in Science pin along with many other makers’ enamel pins during her Today Show performance.

1.) Janelle Monae wore my pin. The Janelle Monae. She wore my pin. My I Believe in Science enamel pin. She wore it in an assortment of feminist and activist pins on her Today Show appearance. I am still in recovery.

That’s my I Believe in Science enamel pin on the right. On Janelle Monae’s outfit for her Today Show appearance.

That’s my I Believe in Science enamel pin on the right. On Janelle Monae’s outfit for her Today Show appearance.

At some point in time I packaged that I Believe in Science pin with my own hands and sent it off and it landed on the lapel of THE. JANELLE. MONAE. I am breathless.

Bang-Up Betty has been making artisan jewelry in Arkansas since 2013 and celebrated five years in 2018 with a pop-up in Little Rock.

Bang-Up Betty has been making artisan jewelry in Arkansas since 2013 and celebrated five years in 2018 with a pop-up in Little Rock.

2.) I had my 5th anniversary. In April of 2018 I celebrated five whole years of making jewelry in Little Rock, Arkansas, and threw a big party complete with this confetti cake that WAS NOT THE ORIGINAL CAKE I MADE. I made a unicorn-shaped cake for the occasion and Betty the cat ATE IT when I wasn’t looking the night before the party. He is a savage.

Betty the cat perches in the Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry studio. His name and personality inspired the name of the business, and he is a small internet celebrity. Follow him on Instagram at @bettyisaboy.

Betty the cat perches in the Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry studio. His name and personality inspired the name of the business, and he is a small internet celebrity. Follow him on Instagram at @bettyisaboy.

3.) Betty the cat made the evening news. Anytime I can get Betty the cat in a magazine or on the tv is the best time of my life. In 2018, KARK stopped by my jewelry studio and fell in love with Betty. I think he got more air time than I did and I have no complaints.

Only in Arkansas: Bang-up Betty's creations are not the usual jewelry items.

Arkansas bride: My gleeful expression after saying my vows (that I wrote!) at the Edgemont House in North Little Rock, Arkansas, in September. Photo by Katie Childs.

Arkansas bride: My gleeful expression after saying my vows (that I wrote!) at the Edgemont House in North Little Rock, Arkansas, in September. Photo by Katie Childs.

4.) I got married! This is really number one on the list BUT THE LIST IS OUT OF ORDER. Collin, don’t get mad.

In September 2018, I got hitched to a very wonderful, supportive, encouraging, hilarious, handsome, incredible guy who was totally fine with us having a weird wedding. It was the most fun day of my life and we’ve been keeping the party going ever since we said “I do.” You really can’t stop the party once you buy a six-foot inflatable dancing man for your wedding and can’t return it.

The inflatable dancing man at our wedding at the Edgemont House in North Little Rock, Arkansas, may have been more of a hit than the bride and groom were. Photo by Katie Childs.

The inflatable dancing man at our wedding at the Edgemont House in North Little Rock, Arkansas, may have been more of a hit than the bride and groom were. Photo by Katie Childs.

Read all about our wedding in this blog post I wrote about how crafty I was and how ridiculous our decor was.

Julianne Moore wears a One Tough Mother Necklace by Bang-Up Betty at a Moms Demand Action conference.

Julianne Moore wears a One Tough Mother Necklace by Bang-Up Betty at a Moms Demand Action conference.

5.) Julianne Moore wore my One Tough Mother necklace AND I raised close to $600 for this incredible charity that’s so close to my heart. I had no idea that when one of the loveliest women I know bought a necklace from me, she meant to bring it to the Moms Demand Action conference and give it to Julianne Moore. Julianne Moore then wore it in a PSA for the organization that encouraged people to vote!

One Tough Mother Necklace


Arkansas jewelry designer Bang-Up Betty’s “Stay Gold” collection is inspired by the Golden Girls and features vintage and limited edition pieces. Plus those big Miami colors!

Arkansas jewelry designer Bang-Up Betty’s “Stay Gold” collection is inspired by the Golden Girls and features vintage and limited edition pieces. Plus those big Miami colors!

6.) I made a jewelry collection inspired by The Golden Girls. I had so much fun designing this collection of vintage-inspired jewelry that my husband then photographed for me on our Lanai. Hahahaha. I’m a Dorothy at heart, but the necklace in the image above was inspired by Blanche.

See more of the Stay Gold collection and read more about what inspired it here!

Bang-Up Betty was voted Best Artisan for the fourth year in a row in the Arkansas Times’s Best of Arkansas for jewelry design.

Bang-Up Betty was voted Best Artisan for the fourth year in a row in the Arkansas Times’s Best of Arkansas for jewelry design.

7.) Y’all voted me Best Artisan in the Arkansas Times’s Best of Arkansas issue! For the fourth year in a row! I am so incredibly grateful for the support my fellow Arkansans have given me over the years. Thank you for giving me the courage to keep making jewelry and putting myself out there.

You also voted my jewelry best in Arkansas Handmade Products in AY Magazine’s Best. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Bang-Up Betty jewelry was voted best in Arkansas Handmade Products by AY Magazine readers.

Bang-Up Betty jewelry was voted best in Arkansas Handmade Products by AY Magazine readers.

Bang-Up Betty’s Love is Queer Bracelet 100% benefits Lucie’s Place, a shelter for homeless LGBT in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Bang-Up Betty’s Love is Queer Bracelet 100% benefits Lucie’s Place, a shelter for homeless LGBT in Little Rock, Arkansas.

8.) I got to support Lucie’s Place by making things. Earlier this year, I dedicated this Love is Queer bracelet to Lucie’s Place, donating 100% of the profits to the nonprofit organization that provides shelter for homeless LGBT in Arkansas. I love being able to use my craft to raise money for progressive nonprofits in the state of Arkansas and across the country.

My new Birthstone Cluster Collection features rough, raw and natural gemstones and is inspired by nature. Photo by Collin Buchanan.

My new Birthstone Cluster Collection features rough, raw and natural gemstones and is inspired by nature. Photo by Collin Buchanan.

9.) I released the Birthstone Cluster Collection, which is inspired by nature and features raw, rough-cut and natural gemstones to celebrate the wearer. Happy birthday to you! These necklaces are by far my favorite things to make right now and can be personalized. Grab your custom birthstone necklace, or maybe one celebrating your child or another loved one!


Arkansas Jewelry Designer Bang-Up Betty Featured on THV11

Stacey Bowers

Since 2013, Bang Up Betty has been serving up unique and fun handmade jewelry from Arkansas!

THV11 contacted me recently to chat about how I got started making jewelry, what inspires my handmade jewelry, what my bestsellers for holiday gifts are, and, of course, Betty the cat.

This interview with Ashley King airs Friday, December 14, 2018, during the 8 p.m. premiere of their new show, The Vine. It’ll be an Arkansas Christmas special focusing on what’s wonderful and local, and I’m so honored they chose to showcase my handmade jewelry.

I’m proud to be an Arkansas-based jeweler supporting local nonprofits and making folks laugh and smile with my jewelry!

Arkansas jewelry maker Bang-Up Betty at work stamping custom jewelry at Moxy Modern Mercantile. Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry is designed and made locally in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Arkansas jewelry maker Bang-Up Betty at work stamping custom jewelry at Moxy Modern Mercantile. Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry is designed and made locally in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Inside the Crafter's Studio: Peek Into a Jewelry Designer's Workshop in Arkansas

Stacey Bowers

Arkansas Jewelry maker Stacey Bowers at work on new jewelry designs in her North Little Rock studio.

Arkansas Jewelry maker Stacey Bowers at work on new jewelry designs in her North Little Rock studio.

I'm about to celebrate one year in my studio space, and what better way to do that than invite y'all over? Consider this your invitation to a virtual visit! 

Brilliant, badass photographer Katie Childs recently stopped by to snap some pics of me at work, and while I'm sad to dispel the rumor that I work in the fires of Mordor, I'm thrilled to show off my newest space. Take a peek at how and where your jewelry gets made. All pics by Katie Childs except for the panorama I took to really show off that wall paint ;-) 

Jewelry designer Stacey Bowers selects a piece of brass to stamp with a hammer in her studio in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

Jewelry designer Stacey Bowers selects a piece of brass to stamp with a hammer in her studio in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

North Little Rock jewelry designer Stacey Bowers' studio, where she creates Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

North Little Rock jewelry designer Stacey Bowers' studio, where she creates Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Arkansas jewelry maker Stacey Bowers at work in her home studio in North Little Rock stamping Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Arkansas jewelry maker Stacey Bowers at work in her home studio in North Little Rock stamping Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers stamps brass jewelry and more in her North Little Rock studio.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers stamps brass jewelry and more in her North Little Rock studio.

Nevertheless She Persisted, I'll Cut You, Get Shit Done... a few of the many phrases jewelry Arkansas designer Stacey Bowers stamps onto her line of jewelry, Bang-Up Betty.

Nevertheless She Persisted, I'll Cut You, Get Shit Done... a few of the many phrases jewelry Arkansas designer Stacey Bowers stamps onto her line of jewelry, Bang-Up Betty.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers poses with a giant cut-out of her nationally celebrated Smash the Patriarchy hammer design.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers poses with a giant cut-out of her nationally celebrated Smash the Patriarchy hammer design.

Betty, the boy cat behind the name Bang-Up Betty, an Arkansas handmade jewelry company.

Betty, the boy cat behind the name Bang-Up Betty, an Arkansas handmade jewelry company.

Betty the boy cat poses with necklaces by Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers of Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Betty the boy cat poses with necklaces by Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers of Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Nasty Woman, Smash the Patriarchy, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, Hands Off, Witchy Bitch, I Believe in Science... these are few enamel lapel pins created Bang-Up Betty in Arkansas.

Nasty Woman, Smash the Patriarchy, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, Hands Off, Witchy Bitch, I Believe in Science... these are few enamel lapel pins created Bang-Up Betty in Arkansas.

Smash the Patriarchy, Buzz Off, Food Over Dudes... a few necklaces by Arkansas jewelry maker Stacey Bowers of Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Smash the Patriarchy, Buzz Off, Food Over Dudes... a few necklaces by Arkansas jewelry maker Stacey Bowers of Bang-Up Betty jewelry.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers holds Betty, the boy cat who inspired the name of her handmade jewelry business, Bang-Up Betty.

Arkansas jewelry designer Stacey Bowers holds Betty, the boy cat who inspired the name of her handmade jewelry business, Bang-Up Betty.

Betty and I are so happy to have your support! Thanks for letting me make keepsakes for you and for letting him sprinkle a little cat hair onto them as they go into the envelope. 

 

 

Street Style: Bang-Up Betty/Maddox Fashion Shoot in Downtown Little Rock

Stacey Bowers

Keesha, Syd and Quiniese in tops from Maddox and jewelry/pins by Bang-Up Betty.

Keesha, Syd and Quiniese in tops from Maddox and jewelry/pins by Bang-Up Betty.

It was HOT in July,  but these lovely ladies braved the sweltering atmosphere to make my cotton candy-colored fashion fantasies come true. Maddox Boutique provided the wardrobe, Katie Childs captured the moments, and Bang-Up Betty added the handmade Arkansas jewelry. Here are a few fiery shots and some funny outtakes, because that's what happens when a bunch of badass babes bond over salty handmade jewelry and boob sweat. 

Syd breaking hearts in the Cry Me a River Necklace and Maddox crop top

Syd breaking hearts in the Cry Me a River Necklace and Maddox crop top

Nasty Woman Statue of Liberty Necklace and peach top from Maddox

Nasty Woman Statue of Liberty Necklace and peach top from Maddox

Keesha shares her Liberal Vagenda with the world

Keesha shares her Liberal Vagenda with the world

Keesha gone wild in all the Bang-Up Betty lapel pins

Keesha gone wild in all the Bang-Up Betty lapel pins

Keesha, an unstoppable force, this time in the Nope Middle Finger necklace and top from Maddox

Keesha, an unstoppable force, this time in the Nope Middle Finger necklace and top from Maddox

Kyla in a jaw-dropping ensemble from Maddox and the Don't Touch Me cactus necklace

Kyla in a jaw-dropping ensemble from Maddox and the Don't Touch Me cactus necklace

Resist stamped mantra bracelet. Silver and brass cuffs are customizable. 

Resist stamped mantra bracelet. Silver and brass cuffs are customizable. 

Kyla in the Hot Mess necklace, even though she is FAR FROM a mess 

Kyla in the Hot Mess necklace, even though she is FAR FROM a mess 

Quiniese in a saucy lace-up top from Maddox and my Strong as Hell necklace and Wonder Woman earrings

Quiniese in a saucy lace-up top from Maddox and my Strong as Hell necklace and Wonder Woman earrings

Quiniese in my Strong as Hell necklace and Wonder Woman earrings

Quiniese in my Strong as Hell necklace and Wonder Woman earrings

Get Shit Done necklace and lace-up top from Maddox

Get Shit Done necklace and lace-up top from Maddox

Quiniese, fierce af, in the Strong as Hell necklace and Maddox top

Quiniese, fierce af, in the Strong as Hell necklace and Maddox top

Amy and Laura in the Smash the Patriarchy shirt

Amy and Laura in the Smash the Patriarchy shirt

I Believe in Science necklace. $4 from each sale through bangupbetty.com goes to the NRDC to protect the environment. 

I Believe in Science necklace. $4 from each sale through bangupbetty.com goes to the NRDC to protect the environment. 

Syd, Vogue as hell, in my Nasty Woman necklace and top from Maddox

Syd, Vogue as hell, in my Nasty Woman necklace and top from Maddox

My Top Nine Moments in a Dumpster Fire Year

Stacey Bowers

Creating the Nasty Women Unite Pin, Not Today Satan Necklace, Smash the Patriarchy Pin, and custom brass jewelry to benefit Arkansas nonprofits were just a few highlights in this feminist Arkansas jewelry maker's year. Thanks for your support in 201…

Creating the Nasty Women Unite Pin, Not Today Satan Necklace, Smash the Patriarchy Pin, and custom brass jewelry to benefit Arkansas nonprofits were just a few highlights in this feminist Arkansas jewelry maker's year. Thanks for your support in 2016!

When I ran that "Top Nine" app on Instagram for 2016, my most-liked posts were all sad (in retrospect) posts about the garbage election. So, I chose my own top nine to commemorate the standout moments of arguably everyone's worst year ever.  Here are some of the precious moments that, for me, saved 2016 from being a completely unpolishable turd.

 

With your help, I raised $1,295 for Arkansas Women's Outreach with my Strong as Hell Bracelet. Yay for the power of handmade feminist jewelry! 

With your help, I raised $1,295 for Arkansas Women's Outreach with my Strong as Hell Bracelet. Yay for the power of handmade feminist jewelry! 

1.) Bang-Up Betty Gave Back

Thanks to everyone's generous support of my Strong As Hell Bracelet for Arkansas Women's Outreach, I was able to raise $1,295 for the nonprofit that provides feminine hygiene supplies and support for homeless women in Arkansas. I was also able to donate $106 to AVAC (AIDS Vaccine Advocacy Coalition) in George Michael's memory through BUB sales. Throughout the year, I was able to provide auction items to support Lucie's Place, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, and Rescue Road animal rescue. And by partnering with Get Bullish and The Outrage, money from the sale of BUB products was donated to Planned Parenthood, the ACLU, and Malala Fund.

 

World-famous illustrator Sally Nixon helped me bring my coffin heart pin design to life.

World-famous illustrator Sally Nixon helped me bring my coffin heart pin design to life.

2.) My First Pin

In January, Sally Nixon helped me bring my first enamel pin idea to life! Special thanks to Sally for shining up my rough draft better than I could imagine. Snag your Eternal Love coffin heart pin here.

 

Congrats to Adam and Shelley, who used my custom handmade jewelry in their engagement. They drove to the Grand Canyon for the proposal! 

Congrats to Adam and Shelley, who used my custom handmade jewelry in their engagement. They drove to the Grand Canyon for the proposal! 

3.) I Helped With a Proposal!

Adam and Shelley drove to the Grand Canyon, where he popped the question using a handful of BUB jewelry and a stunning engagement ring. Congrats, you two! Read more about it here.

 

I'm still so excited that I got to make dozens of these feminist handmade necklaces that say "Smash the Patriarchy" for a feminist wedding. We should all have feminist weddings. I'm always open to make feminist wedding favors!

I'm still so excited that I got to make dozens of these feminist handmade necklaces that say "Smash the Patriarchy" for a feminist wedding. We should all have feminist weddings. I'm always open to make feminist wedding favors!

4.) The Best Wedding Favors Ever

Speaking of weddings, last summer I stamped dozens of these to be wedding favors at a feminist wedding. I still die of shock and am completely flattered anytime someone wants me to be part of their big day!

 

In 2016, I created the Smash the Patriarchy pin. This feminist enamel pin has been all over the world now and is still going strong.

In 2016, I created the Smash the Patriarchy pin. This feminist enamel pin has been all over the world now and is still going strong.

5.) Smash the Patriarchy Pin

Choosing a favorite design is like choosing a favorite child, but if I had to pick, it would be this little hammer Smash the Patriarchy pin that's closest to my heart. Special thanks to Ashlee Nobel for taking my rough draft and creating something so smashing!

 

Thank you for voting Bang-Up Betty best handmade jewelry in Arkansas!

Thank you for voting Bang-Up Betty best handmade jewelry in Arkansas!

6.) Arkansas Times Best Artisan Crafter

Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for voting me best artisan crafter for handmade jewelry in the Arkansas Times 2016 Best of Arkansas. It was seriously such a surprise and honor!

 

Watching y'all post pics at the polls while wearing Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry and enamel pins rocked my world.

Watching y'all post pics at the polls while wearing Bang-Up Betty handmade jewelry and enamel pins rocked my world.

7.) I Voted

I can't not mention the dumpster fire election. While the outcome is a nightmare I never wake up from, I still remember every wonderful second I spent in that booth voting for a woman for president for the first time in my life. Hopefully I get to do it again.

 

Did I mention that I made this Party Hard bracelet for Andrew W.K. and gave it to him in person and fangirled when he put it on???

Did I mention that I made this Party Hard bracelet for Andrew W.K. and gave it to him in person and fangirled when he put it on???

8.) I Met Andrew W.K.

Last fall I met Andrew W.K. and gave him this bracelet. And he Instagrammed it. And he listened to me talk about my big brother. It was so party.

 

Making this Nasty Women Unite pin was so empowering for me, and I'm so happy that this feminist enamel pin has made it onto the lapels of patriarchy smashers across the world.

Making this Nasty Women Unite pin was so empowering for me, and I'm so happy that this feminist enamel pin has made it onto the lapels of patriarchy smashers across the world.

9.) Partnering with The Outrage

A few months ago, a sweet soul named Rebecca reached out to me about her new website to promote feminist messages while funding feminist causes. It's been fantastic watching The Outrage blossom, and I'm thrilled to introduce three enamel pins I created exclusively for them. This Nasty Women Unite pin came first, and I'll be announcing the other two later this week.