Blackbird designers and creators, Vanessa Marino and Regan Hayes, thought it would be something extraordinary if they could create and design an accessories line targeting all types of women everywhere.  Their love for fashion and accessories inspired them to design a line that would inspire others as well.  When they started to put their ideas to the drawing board, they created a line of jewelery that would land itself in a highly respected store, and literally fly away.

Mateo Magazine:  I am sure many people want to know, where did the name Blackbird come from?
Vanessa & Regan:  The name Blackbird came naturally to both of us.  We knew we wanted a brand that was going to be a little edgy, but not too much, as both of us are very feminine and have a soft spot.  Blackbird seemed like the perfect fit of femininity, and edginess but without sounding too hard

MM:  What key pieces can people look forward to and where will they be able to find them?
V&R:  We do not have a specific piece that we can recommend, as all of our pieces are unique and exquisite in their own right.  They each tell a story.  Right now, our line is exclusively being carried at Distinct Living.

MM:  What is Blackbird’s inspiration?
V&R:  Each season we are inspired by something different.  Our Holiday Collection was inspired by winter, snow, and the cool fresh air.  It just seemed like a perfect fit.  This year, we started to lean towards darker and heavier objects.  Still ensuring to keep all pieces classic, yet decadent.  One of our inspirations was Marie Antoinette.  That old French and Parisian glamour she once evoked, and evolved in the early to mid 1700’s.  We wanted this collection to be “darkly romantic” almost as though Marie Antoinette herself was having a love affair with Dracula.  Every piece is a fantasy that turns into a reality for us.

MM:  Besides jewelery, is there anything else that Blackbird is working on?
V&R:  We are both extremely excited to launch our Leather and Suede clutches for Spring 2010.  Both of us have been collecting vintage handbags and purses for a number of years.  Designing a handbag or clutch, seemed like it was the right time and natural thing to do.  Blackbird also has a great line of environmentally friendly vintage teacup candles, which we have collected through our travels around the world, from flea markets.  Each tea cup is hand poured, made with Soya wax and consists of natural fragrances.  These can purchased on the website as well as in the Drake General Store.

Blackbird is proud to note, that all of their accessories are 100% Canadian made.