Coming back for some 31 Bits.

We have a winner of this adorable 31bits necklace:

TERESA!!

Teresa, please e mail me your address at ali@violethillsevents.com.  Your new necklace will be sent to you in early April!

Thanks all for playing... wasn't that fun?
___________________________________________________________________________

Hi friends!

The blog is making a short come-back to share some 31 Bits love with you all via my good friend Elsa Klump.  She's so generous she's even offering a 31 Bits GIVEAWAY exclusive to Violet Hills' readers.

Here's what Elsa has to share with you...

Hey Violet Hills readers, I’m Elsa a student at the University of Oregon (Ali’s alma matter) and the current campus representative for 31 Bits. Ali has graciously allowed me to guest post about 31 Bits and other fun ways to give back during your wedding.

31 Bits is a socially minded business designed to give internally displaced women in northern Uganda an opportunity to counter poverty. By giving these women access to the international market, they are able to earn an instant income, providing homes, food, and education for their families. 31 Bits equips women by providing literacy education, financial and vocational training, holistic care, health education, and strong support systems. 31 Bits empowers over 100 Ugandan women to further their careers and attain social equity.

The jewelry is bought on a monthly basis, providing the women with an immediate, consistent, and fair income. Each piece of jewelry is made out of 100% recycled paper and other local materials.

Luckily for all of us wedding enthusiasts, 31 Bits recently launched a stunning bridal jewelry line. The theme of this wedding line is “First Comes Love…”. 31 Bits is a company built upon love, just like your marriage.

The wedding collection gives brides the opportunity to share a story of hope in the midst of celebrating their own love story. Wearing a piece of 31 Bits jewelry will not only be a memorable part of your day but will play a role in creating new futures for the women of Uganda.

In addition to the bridal line, there are also many jewelry options for bridesmaids, flower girls, and the mother of the bride or groom.

Laurel Locke $22

Rockhopper $36

Waverly $32

Aside from integrating 31 Bits into your wedding day, there are several other great ways to give back to your community or raise awareness of a charity or organization you are connected with.

1.      Choose gift registries that give back:  registries through IDoFoundation.org give up to 10% of purchases to a charity of your choice.

2.      Instead of traditional favors, you can donate money to a charity. Simply make a donation in each guest’s name to the charity of your choice. Present notes at place settings to let guests know about the donation.

3.      Volunteer during your wedding planning processes or during your honeymoon. Service projects are a great way for new families or bridal parties to get to know one another.

4.      Donate your leftovers: un-served food can go to your local food bank and flower arrangements can be sent to a hospital or nursing home.

It is my true hope that every one of you will consider giving back in someway during your big day. People everywhere are so desperate for generosity and love, what better way to start a marriage than by helping to make the world a better place.

If anyone is interested in making an online purchase, feel free to use the code Elsa2012 to get $5 off of a $20 purchase.

Also, for all of you go-getters out there, one of the best ways for us to raise awareness is through house parties. It’s simple! Just invite your friends, coworkers, and neighbors over, and we’ll send you everything else you need! If this appeals to you, check out the Get Involved link on the 31 Bits website.

_________________________________________________________________________________

And for the giveaway... wouldn't you LOVE to win one of these pretty pennies?

To enter the giveaway:

Like the 31 Bits Facebook Page
and/or
Follow them on Twitter

Comment on this blog that you've done so, including the link.

For extra entries:

1.) Like Violet Hills Weddings + Events Facebook Page

2.) Share this giveaway on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter

Leave a separate comment for each, with an opportunity to enter the giveaway three times!

Contest will close March 22 at midnight.

Good luck <3

Cheers,