Early Onset of Spring Fever

It's official - Spring Fever has hit me in a big way. Here in Northern Virginia, the temperature actually reached 40 degrees today, and when I ventured outside for lunch, the bright sun warmed my spirit. Never mind the piles of dirty snow and the iced over trees and puddles, my sights are set on spring! I am SO looking forward to the bright vibrant colors that will burst through the grayish drab. I'll bet you can identify.

With all these thoughts of spring, I need to share the 2011 Crystal Couture experience with you. Brand of the Free (BOTF) has been participating in this amazing Crystal City event all week (February 1-5). It's been a phenomenal time - great music, great people, cash bar, body painting, and lots of fresh new fashions on the runway. Don't miss out on the last night of partying. Saturday night will wrap up the event, and will be a night to remember!

Push through the dullness of a "blah" winter, and experience the sights, sounds and energy of Crystal Couture. If you're in the area, stop by to see us. Joe and I would love to meet you. Don't miss BOTF on the runway!

Check out the Crystal City website for more info and some fun photos.

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special promotions!

So Much to be Thankful For

Just wanted to take a moment to wish you a wonderful, warm, joy filled Thanksgiving!

The awesome aroma of Thanksgiving is all around us, as we gather together to celebrate family, friends, and all the blessings we have been showered with.

A few of the things we are especially thankful for:

Our most wonderful family, and welcoming our future daughter in law to our mix : - )

All of our friends, and those of you who we are getting to know

A warm home filled with love, which is a special blessing from God

The last lingering colors of Fall

The Christmas music that is already playing...

Lots of comfort food made with love

and the pumpkin pie that we broke into this morning cuz we just couldn't wait!!!!!

Enjoy this special time and don't waste a moment of it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Cick here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special discounts/giveaways!

The Tee's in the Mail

Congratulations to Kevin T of San Francisco! His name was randomly selected to receive a "New Growth" T-Shirt in our latest giveaway.

Thank you all for your support. It's fun meeting more and more of you, hearing your interpretations of our BOTF designs. Very cool!

Be sure to check our Facebook page for future giveaways and promotions!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info, and special discounts/giveaways!

"New Growth" Organic Tee Giveaway

It's T-Shirt giveaway time again! Brand of the Free (BOTF) is giving away a "New Growth" organic tee! Here is your chance to win this cool, cozy tee - for yourself or maybe to give as a gift to a friend!

You can enter up to three times. It's easy, just follow the steps below:*

1. Sign up for our email list at
http://www.brandofthefree.net/ If you are already on our email/newsletter list, you are automatically entered!

2. Post a comment on this blog, letting us know your fav BOTF designs, or why choosing American made, organic apparel is important to you.

3. Post a comment on our BOTF Facebook Page on the T-Shirt Giveaway Post.

*Enter by midnight of October 31st to be eligible. The winner will be announced on Monday, November 1st.

Good luck!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for events, info and special discounts/giveaways

Good People Make the Difference

We're truly enjoying our experience at the Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne. The warm community atmosphere, the tranquility of the lake, the array of wonderful produce, meats, bread, dairy and all the vendors offering so many beautiful, unique products make this market extraordinary!

As always, it's the people that make the difference. We've met many interesting people as they shop the market, and made some new friends with "locals" that frequent the market regularly. We've also developed friendships with many of the vendors.

One vendor who really shines is Pat Greer of PL Greer Designs. I love to hear Pat speak of her craft...she is gifted, inspiring, and very humble. Most of her jewelry designs are one of a kind, and she handcrafts each piece to perfection. Pat's artisan jewelry has a unique ethnic flair, using sterling silver, copper and brass.

If you're drawn to jewelry that makes a statement, whether it be bold or subtle, make sure to stop by PL Greer Designs on Saturdays 8am-1pm at The Reston Farmer's Market at Lake Anne, or take a moment to browse Pat's website.

http://www.plgreer.com/


Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways.

Tee Shirt a Month Giveaway for a Year

Congratulations to Catherine from Washington, DC! She was randomly selected to receive a BOTF tee shirt each month for 13 months. We are so excited to ship out her first shirt...DC Delicious!

Catherine - hope you enjoy your first tee and all that follow!

A special thanks to all of you - your response has been heartwarming. So many of you share our commitment to the support of American made products and a more eco-conscious mindset. Please continue to contact us with your thoughts and feedback.

Be sure to keep your eyes open for future giveaways!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info and special discounts/giveaways.

All Your Favorite BOTF Tees

Summer is going by so quickly! We've been in a whirlwind lately, displaying at Artscape in Baltimore, Saturday and Thursday nights at Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne, and Sundays at the West End Farmers Market at Cameron Station. There are more great locations on the calendar and we'll make sure to let you know as they get closer.

We're excited about the growth that Brand of the Free is experiencing. Because of your support, whether it be through a purchase or spreading the word, BOTF tees are popping up all over! It's cool to meet new people who are thrilled to find us because they recognize our designs. Those of you who are able to come out to the markets - we enjoy getting to know you more each time we visit, and appreciate your support and input/feedback BIG TIME!

We want to thank all of you very much for your support!

One of the ways we thought of to say "thank you" is to give away a years worth of BOTF tees. When you sign up for our newsletter, you will be automatically entered. (if you are currently on our newsletter email list, you are already entered!) The lucky winner will receive a BOTF tee a month, for 13 months. Yes....now THAT'S the way to get all those designs you've been wanting!

If you're not signed up for our newsletter yet, you have until midnight on July 31st to be eligible for the giveaway. Good luck and enjoy the rest of the Summer!

You can sign up on our Facebook Page or enter your email address on the left side of our BOTF website http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne

We found a wonderful farmers market, and could not wait to share it with you!

The Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne is an amazing experience. The atmosphere oozes warm community, and the music is wonderful. Not to mention the vendor/artisan market is located right at the lake...it can't get much better than that!

Remember to bring your market bags - I promise you will fill them up! The aroma of kettle corn will entice your senses, and you will find wonderful breads, baked goods, fresh prepared foods, meats, cheeses, produce, honey, fresh flowers and plants and so much more.

You will love the variety of the artisan vendors. So many quality items, including bath and body products, handmade knit shawls, handcrafted and vintage jewelry, vintage linens, baskets, organic baby clothes, tees, apparel...the list goes on and on.

If you are in the area, make sure to stop by the Reston Farmers Market at Lake Anne on Saturdays, 8am-12 noon. (the vendors side is open an hour or two longer)

We will have our Brand of the Free display set up on Saturdays. Be sure to stop by and visit! ("like" us on our Facebook Page for updates on upcoming events)

http://www.restonfarmersmarket.com/ Info, vendors, directions, hours

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here to check out our Facebook Page for community, info, and special discounts/giveaways

Supporting Eachother for a Better World

This morning, while I was enjoying my shower, a memory popped into my head. Not just any memory...but one of the most embarrassing moments of my life. It got me thinking....

Let me take you back a few years (well maybe more than a few!). My husband, Joe, was playing in a rock band, and I went out for the night to see him. I was very pregnant - probably 8 months. Needless to say, my belly was huge. Being a band member's wife, I was very aware that curious eyes would be on me, and I was not feeling especially attractive. The night went well until IT happened. After the last song of the night, I started to walk toward Joe, who was backstage. Somehow I tripped, and managed to slide across the dance floor on my pregnant belly. I mean, you could have spun me like a top! I don't remember anyone helping me - I pulled myself up, kept my head up high, and marched back to my husband, who after making sure I was ok, just laughed the whole thing off.

Now, looking back, I see that one of my biggest fears happened that night. I made a public fool of myself. But guess what - my world didn't fall apart. Time didn't stand still. Life went on. I fell, but pulled myself up, and became a stronger person in the process.

The reason I wanted to share this with you, is because of a trend I have been seeing lately. We've all been guilty of it at times. I'm seeing alot of finger pointing, finding fault because a person or company isn't "green enough", or maybe embarking on a mission or involved with a group or charity we don't understand.

When a person (or company) makes the decision to make changes or to actually DO something to try to help a situation, each small step is so meaningful. If they are on the wrong track and fall, instead of standing back and watching, criticizing, or laughing, we should take the opportunity to offer a hand to eachother. Each step that's taken to move forward, no matter how small, will work toward the greater good.

I know so many of you are trying hard to make a difference in the world. Making changes and taking action aren't easy. But know, even when you fall and all eyes are on you, you can pick yourself up and continue on. Even if it is only you. Stand tall and keep you head held high. The world will be better for it!

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Soap Making With a Passion

Handmade, natural soap is definitely high on my list of favorite things. I love the way it makes me feel when I see an array of beautiful soaps, take in the fragrances, and finally make my selection so I can take some home to experience the sheer creaminess of the lather. Not many people fully understand my attraction to soap, but that changed one Sunday afternoon at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

As my husband and I were walking through the market, Mystic Water Soap lured me over with a beautiful display. As I was touching and smelling all the soaps, the owner and soap maker, Michelle Burns, introduced herself. She was very friendly and helpful, and her passion for handmade, quality soaps shone through as she shared some information about her soaps, and also a little of her personal experiences.

Michelle has always been drawn to traditional handicrafts. She's led a very interesting life, from her early years living with her grandparents on their farm in upstate New York, to San Francisco, where she worked in a restaurant which led to her becoming a professional cook. She traveled the world, and spent most of her adult life living in Italy, where she learned to make soap from local olive oil. Michelle's cooking background influences her soap making - color, appearance, and interplay of scents are very important to her.

If you share my love of wonderful, handmade soaps (or know someone who does) make sure to check out Mystic Water Soap. You will find Natural, Bath, Sea Salt and Specialty soaps. She also offers bath and body products. You can purchase Mystic Water Soap products at markets, festivals, order directly by phone or email, or find them at Smile Herb Shop in College Park, MD.

http://www.mysticwatersoap.com/ Available products, contact and ordering info, festival/market schedule

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/
Click here for BOTF Facebook Page Conversation, fun, info and special offers

Spreading the Message

Saturday was beautiful and sunny, and we spent the day meeting fun and interesting people at the Eastern Market in DC. Athough it was a little chilly for my taste, you could just feel the joy of Spring in the air!

So many of you have stopped by our Brand of the Free booth and we enjoy getting to know you and hearing your thoughts. We love your comments and input on our graphic tees, ranging from a chuckle to belly laughs, or either LOVING the design or "just not getting it".

Our goal at Brand of the Free is to provide you with cool tee designs that communicate subtle messages that promote conversation. It is also important to us to offer you the choice to purchase American made, 100% organic cotton - a choice that is eco-friendly and supports the American worker. More and more we are hearing from you that these choices are important to you, too.

One mom that we met just touched my heart. Her daughter was having a slumber party, and she wanted to get some eco-friendly shirts for the girls. She purchased four "New Growth" shirts, each in an individual bag to give out. What a great idea! The girls will have soft, organic cotton tees to remember their sleepover, and they will be wearing a shirt with a positive message. It really made me think about how the message is getting out there - one person at a time, sharing an idea or thought about who they are and what they choose to support.

Please leave a comment, to let us know your thoughts of ways to get the message out.

Maybe you have your own ideas for shirts or events that you would like to discuss. Always feel free to email or call.

What's important to you? It's time to let the world know.


Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World

http://www.brandofthefree.net/



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Elegant and Bold Jewelry Designs

You know the feeling - you are aimlessly browsing through some accessories and jewelry, and then you spot the designs you just can't resist. Something connects with your spirit and you feel as though the designer knew you when she created the pieces.

That's how I felt when I discovered Andrea D'Ambrosia Designs. Meeting Andrea at Crystal Couture last week was a pleasure. She is bold and fun, and also has a very elegant fashion sense. Her multifaceted personality carries over to her gorgeous one of a kind jewelry designs, many of which incorporate vintage brooches.

I love the fact that Andrea weaves vintage brooches into her collection. What better way is there to recycle a vintage piece than to create a beautiful marriage of the old and new? The result is stunning.

A. D'Ambrosia Designs is located in Alexandria, VA. Did I tell you that I love to shop local?

Check out Andrea's jewelry and accessories: http://www.andreadambrosia.com/
Shop online: http://www.andreadambrosia.etsy.com/
Contact: andreadambrosia@yahoo.com

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Discover “The Slow Cook”

Wow-I just came across the most interesting website. My quest for information on “real” and nutritious food leads me in so many directions, that sometimes the whole subject could be overwhelming. At the same time, the compulsion forces me to keep digging for as many “nuggets” that I could find. Well, I happened upon a goldmine!

Ed Bruske, of “The Slow Cook” is a former reporter for the Washington Post who believes in “self-reliance, growing food close to home and political freedom for the residents of the District of Columbia”.

He really pulled me in with his Manifesto:

“Enough of food fads! Enough of food porn! Enough of celebrity chefs (except Mario Batali)! It’s time to take back control of the food we eat and the pace of our own lives. Things should grow and cook in their own time. Reject fast food! Reject waiting lists at over-hyped, outrageously expensive restaurants! Reject food out of season! Sit, eat drink. Enjoy good food made by caring hands. Enjoy food eaten slowly, in good company.”

Thanks to Ed Bruske for all of the wonderful information that he has made available on “The Slow Cook”. It will take a while for me to dig through all of the info there, including recommended cooks, links, food writers, movies, recent articles, and archived blogs, and I will enjoy every minute of it!


Check out “Tales from a D.C. School Kitchen”. Eye opening info! http://www.theslowcook.com/2010/01/21/tales-from-a-d-c-school-kitchen-part-three/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://brandofthefree.net/

Bask in the Sunshine of the Eastern Market

Looks like the sun will be shining on the Eastern Market DC this Saturday! It’s going to be a great day for strolling along, appreciating some long awaited warmth while perusing the produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods that the market has to offer. And who could resist checking out the latest offerings from very unique vendors – a vast array of jewelry, art, photography, hand made knitted hats and scarves, graphic tees, vintage linens and furniture…the list goes on and on.

It’s hard to fully describe the Eastern Market…it’s a warm, cozy combination of aromas, sights, sounds and some of the most interesting people around. We look forward to seeing some of our old friends. For those of you, who have never attended the Eastern Market, plan to come and see what you’ve been missing! We’ll be looking for you!

Eastern Market Info: http://www.easternmarketdc.com/

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Fun Fashion at Crystal Couture 2010

Brand of the Free is SO looking forward to the 2010 Crystal Couture experience in Crystal City, VA, February 1-6! Last year we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, mingling with fashion designers, artists, fashionistas, models, and all of the interesting and wonderful people we met. We look forward to spending some time with good friends, and meeting many new ones!

Crystal Couture is a trendy, creative event, transforming some available retail space into a nightclub atmosphere. There’s lots of fun to go around, including runway shows, open bar, free snacks, free makeovers, local DJs, dancing, and more!

This year, Bianca Richardson, finalist from America’s Next Top Model will appear, and there will be a t-shirt and design competition, selected by audience vote.

Don’t miss Brand of the Free designs on the runway! It’s going to be a very cool week!

For more info: http://www.crystalcity.org/item/fun-fashion-comes-to-crystal-city-update

Brand of the Free - Better Apparel for a Better World
http://www.brandofthefree.net/

Welcoming the New Year

It’s hard to say good bye to 2009 because it was a great year for us - we’ve met such wonderful people! We especially have enjoyed getting to know a lot of you at the Eastern Market in DC. It’s always a pleasure meeting face to face, although we also really appreciate our Facebook, Twitter and online friends!

Today, we would like to say thank you for your friendship and support! BOTF’s mission is to offer thought provoking designs while supporting American workers and businesses. It is also important to us to offer the choice of 100% organic cotton, which is grown in the USA. Through our conversations, you have shared your support for that mission and have also offered many suggestions and input. Please, keep it coming – we are listening!

We are looking forward to 2010 with excitement! New designs will be released and keep your eyes open for BOTF’s 12 shirt giveaway! More info to come!

Enjoy your New Year’s Eve celebrations….whether at home or out partying! Have a Wonderful, Happy and Prosperous New Year!!!!

Sincerely,

Joe and Bernadette Maluso

The True Gifts of Christmas

This year, we are truly enjoying the Christmas Season! A pile of beautiful snow was dumped on the DC area, and we thoroughly love it! Being Northeast Ohio natives, it doesn’t feel entirely like Christmas without at least SOME snow! So, Yippee!

With everything going on during this Holiday Season, please take a moment to breathe in the peace of friends and family. Sometimes as we jump through the hoops to make for a “perfect” Christmas day, we allow the real gifts to go unnoticed. All we have to do is stop, take a breath, open our eyes and hearts, and see what is around us. The magic is already there and can not be bought in a store.

As we count down to Christmas Day, we would like to wish you peace and happiness!

DC Party Capital

Wow - Fall has arrived and the holidays are right around the corner! Hope you are enjoying this crisp and colorful time of year. We are keeping very busy, but as always taking some time to enjoy life!
Grab a cup of coffee (or your beverage of choice) and take a moment to check out BOTF's latest release - D.C. Party Capital! Your request for some long sleeve styles came through loud and clear. Party Capital is available in long sleeve, a perfect addition to your tee wardrobe or great for gifts.

Be sure to use the coupon below for a great discount!

Three reasons Brand of the Free Designer Tees stand out in a crowd:

· Super soft ring spun cotton with designs that continue to turn heads. Look at the new "D.C. Party Capital" on our web site. http://www.brandofthefree.net

· "American Made" which keeps money in the US and helps our economy by employing local American workers at a fair wage.

· 100% organic cotton (and regular cotton in select styles) while using non toxic water based print inks. This makes for toxic free, clean and healthy garments that are environmentally sound.

If you're in the DC, MD, VA area come and see us most Saturdays at the historic Eastern Market on 7th Street near Pennsylvania Ave. in DC. We will be in the Hine School parking lot across the street from the main market.
As always, we would love your input. If you have any ideas or comments please let me know as they are always welcome.

Coupon GOGREEN35

Brandofthefree.net

Model Nation

There is such a buzz in the air. As a nation, we feel the wave of change as we witness our first black president take office. Although we have many differences of opinion, I believe we can all agree that we want what is best for this country.

For a long time we have let our differences tear us apart. Sometimes it feels that we are not the United States at all. Instead we feel disjointed, looking for flaws and mistakes in our leaders instead of supporting the men and women who serve our country. There have been mistakes made by every elected official. You know that is true, because they ARE human, right? There is no such thing as a perfect human being. But there are human beings who make a commitment to themselves to make this world a better place, whether they are serving our country through the government or military or through raising unselfish, fruitful children who will help build communities and strengthen this great nation. We need to respect and honor all forms of service, especially when lives are put on the line.

As Martin Luther King, Jr. stated in his famous ‘I Have a Dream’ speech,

“But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred”
He goes on to say, “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

These words are very powerful and really made me stop to think. We have a great, beautiful country. Let’s all be a part of building it into the Model Nation that it should be!

Please read the complete MLK speech. http://www.usconstitution.net/dream.html

Brand of the Free Apparel - Model Nation T-Shirt
brandofthefree.net Made in America and 100% Organic

Sweet Christmas Treats

Carols are playing and decorations shine brightly-the “Season of Giving” has arrived! I don’t know about you, but I LOVE everything that comes with the Holiday Season. From the yummy cookies baking in the oven to the beautiful light displays and the wonderful way that we all seem to put our differences aside and think about ways of giving.

With the economy doing a downturn, many people are wondering how they are going to find affordable gifts. We want to help you check some things off your Santa list, by offering a Sweet Christmas Treat.

So, how about 30-50% off our 'Brand of the Free' cool graphic tees. And a super savings on select styles for only $10.00. Click here

Always Made in America and 100%Organic. Use the coupon codes on the home page.

Let’s do some shopping!!!!!

Brandofthefree.net