A
s a touching tribute to her mother,
Renee Simlak creates jewelry that
reflects the class and beauty her mom
embodied during her lifetime.
Ann Simlak passed away in September, 1998,
after battling cancer for five years. Renee wrote a
Mother's Day testimonial to her mom, titled
"There's Always Hope," that appeared in the
Jewish News four months before Ann's death. The
article galvanized the community and the Simlaks
received heartfelt thoughts from dozens of
strangers who were touched by the story.
Renee, 28, founded "Anna Renee Jewels,
Creations with Color and Class" last February
The Farmington Hills jewelry designer fashions
earrings, bracelets and necklaces from semi-pre-
cious pearls, Bali beads, Austrian crystals and rare
gemstones. All of the pieces are named after pets.
In fact, her cats, Samantha Ashley and Alexandrea
Hope, inspired artful creations.
It was an "Oprah" episode that influenced
Renee to start her own business. "I watched a
show about making your money work for you,"
she explains. "Then I took my income tax refund
and invested it in beading classes and supplies."
Ranging in price from $30 for earrings to $65-
$80 for a necklace, Renee's jewelry comes with a
warranty and a dedication to individuality
"My newest creations are lariat necklaces and
three-strand bracelets," she says. "I want to appeal
to all tastes and types of people, from the sexy and
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chic type to the classy/conserva-
tive type." Special orders are wel-
comed.
Anna Renee Jewels are mar-
keted primarily through home
parties, though Renee often sells
her pieces right off her neck.
Party hosts receive a gift of jewel-.
ry. Winter brides might want to
check out Renee's bridesmaid
collection, perfect gifts for the
wedding party. The collection is
available at Alvin's in. St. Clair
Shores. Also find Renee's work at
Gallery Function Art in Pontiac,
Greetings From... in West
Bloomfield, and Arthouse Studios
& Gallery in Berkley or e-mail
her at Rcs421@aol.com to make
an appointment.
"Jewelry is always a wonderful
gift to give," she says, "and it is
one that will be cherished by the
recipient."
— Linda Bachrack
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN LIPPITT
STYLE A "I' TIIE JN • NOVENIBER 2000 • II