Blog
Ilissa Michele Jewelry: Purpose-Driven, Handmade, and One-of-a-Kind
09.24.25
Looking for a unique gift? Ilissa Michele Jewelry creates handmade chains with matching clasps using one-of-a-kind gemstone beads. Each piece is designed to layer, mix, and personalize. The collection includes necklaces with pendants, layering necklaces, chokers, bracelets, and pendants. Mom-owned and purpose-driven, Ilissa Michele Jewelry makes every gift both beautiful and meaningful.
For 18 years, founder Ilissa Michele dedicated herself to raising her children, calling it the most important job in the world. As her children grew, she began to explore self-care and a new chapter of creativity. Drawn to working with her hands, she experimented with pottery, knitting, and painting before realizing her true passion.
That passion sparked the moment she walked into a bead store in New York City. Surrounded by stones and beads, she began designing and crafting jewelry. Self-taught, she learned to work with tools and materials, experimenting until she created her first sellable necklace.
The journey from hobby to business began on an airplane. While wearing one of her designs, a fellow passenger admired her necklace and asked where she could buy one. When Ilissa explained that it was her own creation, the woman purchased it right off her neck. That chance encounter inspired her to launch Ilissa Michele Jewelry, sharing her designs with the world.
Each piece reflects Ilissa’s personal style, blending boho chic with individuality and statement-making detail. Every necklace and bracelet tells a story, crafted with intention and care.
Explore the collection at ilissamichele.com
Blog
Irvine Barclay Theatre Celebrates 35th Season With Free Block Party
09.19.25
Irvine Barclay Theatre is celebrating its 35th season with a free community Block Party on Sunday, Sept. 28. From 1 to 2:30 p.m., families can enjoy face painting, a caricature artist, balloon creations, a marionette puppet show, and music and dance in the plaza outside the theater.
The party wraps up with Phat Cat Swinger, the high-energy jazz and rockabilly group from Los Angeles known for their Disneyland Resort performances. They’ll play a free concert inside the Barclay from 3 to 4 p.m. General admission tickets are available online.
The Block Party also marks the start of a milestone season for the Barclay, which will feature Grammy-winning artists, world-class dance companies, and renowned speakers. Parking is $10 at Campus and Peltason, adjacent to UC Irvine.
Since 1990, the Barclay has welcomed more than 2.7 million patrons to its 750-seat auditorium, known for its intimate setting and superb acoustics. The nonprofit theater is a collaboration between the City of Irvine, UC Irvine, and private donors.
For details on the Block Party and the full 35th season, visit thebarclay.org or call (949) 854-4646.
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